Activation of Membrane Fusion by Murine Leukemia Viruses Is Controlled in cis or in trans by Interactions between the Receptor-Binding Domain and a Conserved Disulfide Loop of the Carboxy Terminus of the Surface Glycoprotein

PubMed Central

Lavillette, Dimitri; Boson, Bertrand; Russell, Stephen J.; Cosset, François-Loïc

2001-01-01

Cell entry of retroviruses is initiated by the recognition of cellular receptors and the subsequent membrane fusion between viral and cellular membranes. These two steps are mediated by the surface (SU) and transmembrane (TM) subunits of the retroviral envelope glycoprotein (Env), respectively. Determinants regulating membrane fusion have been described throughout SU and TM, but the processes coupling receptor recognition to fusion are still elusive. Here we establish that a critical interaction is formed between the receptor-binding domain (RBD) and the major disulfide loop of the carboxy-terminal domain (C domain) of the murine leukemia virus SU. Receptor binding causes an alteration of this interaction and, in turn, promotes further events of Env fusion activation. We characterize mutations which, by lowering this interaction and reducing the compatibility between the RBD and C domains of Env glycoprotein chimeras, affect both Env fusogenicity and sensitivity to receptor interference. Additionally, we demonstrate that suboptimal interactions in such mutant Env proteins can be compensated in trans by soluble RBDs in a manner that depends on their compatibility with the C domain. Our results therefore indicate that RBD/C domain interactions may occur in cis, via the proper RBD of the viral Env itself, or in trans, via a distinct RBD expressed by virion-free Env glycoproteins expressed endogenously by the infected cells or provided by neighboring Env trimers. PMID:11264358

The gene product of a Trypanosoma equiperdum ortholog of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase regulatory subunit is a monomeric protein that is not capable of binding cyclic nucleotides.

PubMed

Bubis, José; Martínez, Juan Carlos; Calabokis, Maritza; Ferreira, Joilyneth; Sanz-Rodríguez, Carlos E; Navas, Victoria; Escalona, José Leonardo; Guo, Yurong; Taylor, Susan S

2018-03-01

The full gene sequence encoding for the Trypanosoma equiperdum ortholog of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) regulatory (R) subunits was cloned. A poly-His tagged construct was generated [TeqR-like(His) 8 ], and the protein was expressed in bacteria and purified to homogeneity. The size of the purified TeqR-like(His) 8 was determined to be ∼57,000 Da by molecular exclusion chromatography indicating that the parasite protein is a monomer. Limited proteolysis with various proteases showed that the T. equiperdum R-like protein possesses a hinge region very susceptible to proteolysis. The recombinant TeqR-like(His) 8 did not bind either [ 3 H] cAMP or [ 3 H] cGMP up to concentrations of 0.40 and 0.65 μM, respectively, and neither the parasite protein nor its proteolytically generated carboxy-terminal large fragments were capable of binding to a cAMP-Sepharose affinity column. Bioinformatics analyses predicted that the carboxy-terminal region of the trypanosomal R-like protein appears to fold similarly to the analogous region of all known PKA R subunits. However, the protein amino-terminal portion seems to be unrelated and shows homology with proteins that contained Leu-rich repeats, a folding motif that is particularly appropriate for protein-protein interactions. In addition, the three-dimensional structure of the T. equiperdum protein was modeled using the crystal structure of the bovine PKA R I α subunit as template. Molecular docking experiments predicted critical changes in the environment of the two putative nucleotide binding clefts of the parasite protein, and the resulting binding energy differences support the lack of cyclic nucleotide binding in the trypanosomal R-like protein. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. and Société Française de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire (SFBBM). All rights reserved.

Peptide selection by class I molecules of the major histocompatibility complex.

PubMed

Elliott, T; Smith, M; Driscoll, P; McMichael, A

1993-12-01

Class I molecules of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) bind peptides derived from cytoplasmic proteins. Comparison of over 100 such peptides reveals the importance of the carboxy-terminal residue in selective binding. Recent evidence implicates the proteases and transporters of the processing pathway in providing peptides with the correct residues at the carboxyl terminus.

Enhanced Polysaccharide Binding and Activity on Linear β-Glucans through Addition of Carbohydrate-Binding Modules to Either Terminus of a Glucooligosaccharide Oxidase

PubMed Central

Foumani, Maryam; Vuong, Thu V.; MacCormick, Benjamin; Master, Emma R.

2015-01-01

The gluco-oligosaccharide oxidase from Sarocladium strictum CBS 346.70 (GOOX) is a single domain flavoenzyme that favourably oxidizes gluco- and xylo- oligosaccharides. In the present study, GOOX was shown to also oxidize plant polysaccharides, including cellulose, glucomannan, β-(1→3,1→4)-glucan, and xyloglucan, albeit to a lesser extent than oligomeric substrates. To improve GOOX activity on polymeric substrates, three carbohydrate binding modules (CBMs) from Clostridium thermocellum, namely CtCBM3 (type A), CtCBM11 (type B), and CtCBM44 (type B), were separately appended to the amino and carboxy termini of the enzyme, generating six fusion proteins. With the exception of GOOX-CtCBM3 and GOOX-CtCBM44, fusion of the selected CBMs increased the catalytic activity of the enzyme (kcat) on cellotetraose by up to 50%. All CBM fusions selectively enhanced GOOX binding to soluble and insoluble polysaccharides, and the immobilized enzyme on a solid cellulose surface remained stable and active. In addition, the CBM fusions increased the activity of GOOX on soluble glucomannan by up to 30 % and on insoluble crystalline as well as amorphous cellulose by over 50 %. PMID:25932926

ERP, a new member of the ets transcription factor/oncoprotein family: cloning, characterization, and differential expression during B-lymphocyte development.

PubMed

Lopez, M; Oettgen, P; Akbarali, Y; Dendorfer, U; Libermann, T A

1994-05-01

The ets gene family encodes a group of proteins which function as transcription factors under physiological conditions and, if aberrantly expressed, can cause cellular transformation. We have recently identified two regulatory elements in the murine immunoglobulin heavy-chain (IgH) enhancer, pi and microB, which exhibit striking similarity to binding sites for ets-related proteins. To identify ets-related transcriptional regulators expressed in pre-B lymphocytes that may interact with either the pi or the microB site, we have used a PCR approach with degenerate oligonucleotides encoding conserved sequences in all members of the ets family. We have cloned the gene for a new ets-related transcription factor, ERP (ets-related protein), from the murine pre-B cell line BASC 6C2 and from mouse lung tissue. The ERP protein contains a region of high homology with the ETS DNA-binding domain common to all members of the ets transcription factor/oncoprotein family. Three additional smaller regions show homology to the ELK-1 and SAP-1 genes, a subgroup of the ets gene family that interacts with the serum response factor. Full-length ERP expresses only negligible DNA-binding activity by itself. Removal of the carboxy terminus enables ERP to interact with a variety of ets-binding sites including the E74 site, the IgH enhancer pi site, and the lck promoter ets site, suggesting a carboxy-terminal negative regulatory domain. At least three ERP-related transcripts are expressed in a variety of tissues. However, within the B-cell lineage, ERP is highly expressed primarily at early stages of B-lymphocyte development, and expression declines drastically upon B-cell maturation, correlating with the enhancer activity of the IgH pi site. These data suggest that ERP might play a role in B-cell development and in IgH gene regulation.

The LINE-1 DNA sequences in four mammalian orders predict proteins that conserve homologies to retrovirus proteins.

PubMed Central

Fanning, T; Singer, M

1987-01-01

Recent work suggests that one or more members of the highly repeated LINE-1 (L1) DNA family found in all mammals may encode one or more proteins. Here we report the sequence of a portion of an L1 cloned from the domestic cat (Felis catus). These data permit comparison of the L1 sequences in four mammalian orders (Carnivore, Lagomorph, Rodent and Primate) and the comparison supports the suggested coding potential. In two separate, noncontiguous regions in the carboxy terminal half of the proteins predicted from the DNA sequences, there are several strongly conserved segments. In one region, these share homology with known or suspected reverse transcriptases, as described by others in rodents and primates. In the second region, closer to the carboxy terminus, the strongly conserved segments are over 90% homologous among the four orders. One of the latter segments is cysteine rich and resembles the putative metal binding domains of nucleic acid binding proteins, including those of TFIIIA and retroviruses. PMID:3562227

Structures of the human Pals1 PDZ domain with and without ligand suggest gated access of Crb to the PDZ peptide-binding groove

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ivanova, Marina E.; Fletcher, Georgina C.; O’Reilly, Nicola

2015-03-01

This study characterizes the interaction between the carboxy-terminal (ERLI) motif of the essential polarity protein Crb and the Pals1/Stardust PDZ-domain protein. Structures of human Pals1 PDZ with and without a Crb peptide are described, explaining the highly conserved nature of the ERLI motif and revealing a sterically blocked peptide-binding groove in the absence of ligand. Many components of epithelial polarity protein complexes possess PDZ domains that are required for protein interaction and recruitment to the apical plasma membrane. Apical localization of the Crumbs (Crb) transmembrane protein requires a PDZ-mediated interaction with Pals1 (protein-associated with Lin7, Stardust, MPP5), a member ofmore » the p55 family of membrane-associated guanylate kinases (MAGUKs). This study describes the molecular interaction between the Crb carboxy-terminal motif (ERLI), which is required for Drosophila cell polarity, and the Pals1 PDZ domain using crystallography and fluorescence polarization. Only the last four Crb residues contribute to Pals1 PDZ-domain binding affinity, with specificity contributed by conserved charged interactions. Comparison of the Crb-bound Pals1 PDZ structure with an apo Pals1 structure reveals a key Phe side chain that gates access to the PDZ peptide-binding groove. Removal of this side chain enhances the binding affinity by more than fivefold, suggesting that access of Crb to Pals1 may be regulated by intradomain contacts or by protein–protein interaction.« less

Deletion and site-specific mutagenesis of nucleolin's carboxy GAR domain.

PubMed

Pellar, Gregory J; DiMario, Patrick J

2003-04-01

Vertebrate nucleolin is an abundant RNA-binding protein in the dense fibrillar component of active nucleoli. Nucleolin is modular in composition. Its amino-terminal third contains alternating acidic and basic domains, its middle section contains four consensus RNA-binding domains (cRBDs), and its carboxy-terminus contains a distinctive glycine/arginine-rich (GAR) domain with several RGG motifs. The arginines within these motifs are asymmetrically dimethylated. Several laboratories have shown that the GAR domain is necessary but not sufficient for the efficient localization of nucleolin to nucleoli. We examined the distribution of endogenous fibrillarin, Nopp140, and B23 when full-length and DeltaGAR nucleolin were expressed exogenously as enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-tagged fusions. Only B23 redistributed when DeltaGAR-EGFP was expressed at moderate to high levels, suggesting an in vivo interaction between nucleolin and B23. Next we substituted all ten arginines within the GAR domain of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) nucleolin with lysines to test the hypothesis that methylation of the carboxy GAR domain is necessary for the nucleolar association of nucleolin. The lysine-substituted mutant was not an in vitro substrate for the yeast protein methyltransferase, Hmt1p/Rmt1. It was, however, able to associate properly with interphase nucleoli and with interphase pre-nucleolar bodies upon recovery from hypotonic shock. We conclude, therefore, that although the GAR domain is necessary for the efficient localization of nucleolin to nucleoli, methylation of this domain is not required for proper nucleolar localization.

Characterization of the Akt2 Domain Essential for Binding Nuclear p21cip1 to Promote Cell Cycle Arrest during Myogenic Differentiation

PubMed Central

Heron-Milhavet, Lisa; Franckhauser, Celine; Fernandez, Anne; Lamb, Ned J.

2013-01-01

The binding of the cdk inhibitor p21cip1 to Akt2 in the nucleus is an essential component in determining the specific role of Akt2 in the cell cycle arrest that precedes myogenic differentiation. Here, through a combination of biochemical and cell biology approaches, we have addressed the molecular basis of this binding. Using amino-terminal truncation of Akt2, we show that p21cip1 binds at the carboxy terminal of Akt2 since deletion of the first 400 amino acids did not affect the interaction between Akt2 and p21cip1. Pull down using carboxy terminal-truncated Akt2 protein revealed the importance of the region between amino acids 400 and 445 for the binding to p21cip1. Since Akt2_400–445 and Akt2_420–445 peptides could both bind p21cip1, this refines the binding domain on Akt2 between amino acids 420 and 445. In order to confirm these data in living cells, we developed a protocol to synchronize myoblasts at the cell cycle exit point when p21cip1 expression is induced by MyoD before myogenic differentiation. When a synthetic Akt2 peptide spanning the region (410–437) was microinjected in p21-expressing myoblasts, p21cip1 no longer localized exclusively in the nucleus, instead being redistributed throughout the cell, thus showing that injected peptide 410–437 acts to compete with the binding of endogenous Akt2 to p21cip1. Taken together, our data suggest that this 27 amino acid sequence on Akt2 is necessary and sufficient to bind p21cip1 both in vitro and in living cells. PMID:24194853

Novel carboxy functionalized sol-gel precursors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wolter, H.; Storch, W.; Gellermann, C.

1996-12-31

A novel family of inorganic-organic copolymers (ORMOCER`s) derived from urethane- and thioether(meth)acrylate alkoxysilanes has been successfully exploited for a variety of diverse applications. In order to widen the range of applications an additional functionality (carboxy group) has been incorporated int his silane type. Conventional sol-gel processing facilitates the formation of an inorganic Si-O-Si-network via hydrolysis and polycondensation reactions of alkoxysilyl moieties and in addition, the (meth)acrylate groups are available for radically induced polymerization to obtain a complementary organic polymer structure. The presence of a carboxy group would appear to have great potential for a range of diverse areas of application,more » such as an internal catalyst for the sol-gel process, complexation of elements such as Zr and Ti, increasing the adhesion to various substrates and modification of solubility. A number of novel silanes and their syntheses will be described in this paper.« less

A pH-Regulated Quality Control Cycle for Surveillance of Secretory Protein Assembly

PubMed Central

Vavassori, Stefano; Cortini, Margherita; Masui, Shoji; Sannino, Sara; Anelli, Tiziana; Caserta, Imma R.; Fagioli, Claudio; Mossuto, Maria F.; Fornili, Arianna; van Anken, Eelco; Degano, Massimo; Inaba, Kenji; Sitia, Roberto

2013-01-01

Summary To warrant the quality of the secretory proteome, stringent control systems operate at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-Golgi interface, preventing the release of nonnative products. Incompletely assembled oligomeric proteins that are deemed correctly folded must rely on additional quality control mechanisms dedicated to proper assembly. Here we unveil how ERp44 cycles between cisGolgi and ER in a pH-regulated manner, patrolling assembly of disulfide-linked oligomers such as IgM and adiponectin. At neutral, ER-equivalent pH, the ERp44 carboxy-terminal tail occludes the substrate-binding site. At the lower pH of the cisGolgi, conformational rearrangements of this peptide, likely involving protonation of ERp44’s active cysteine, simultaneously unmask the substrate binding site and −RDEL motif, allowing capture of orphan secretory protein subunits and ER retrieval via KDEL receptors. The ERp44 assembly control cycle couples secretion fidelity and efficiency downstream of the calnexin/calreticulin and BiP-dependent quality control cycles. PMID:23685074

Characterization of a Nucleus-Encoded Chitinase from the Yeast Kluyveromyces lactis

PubMed Central

Colussi, Paul A.; Specht, Charles A.; Taron, Christopher H.

2005-01-01

Endogenous proteins secreted from Kluyveromyces lactis were screened for their ability to bind to or to hydrolyze chitin. This analysis resulted in identification of a nucleus-encoded extracellular chitinase (KlCts1p) with a chitinolytic activity distinct from that of the plasmid-encoded killer toxin α-subunit. Sequence analysis of cloned KlCTS1 indicated that it encodes a 551-amino-acid chitinase having a secretion signal peptide, an amino-terminal family 18 chitinase catalytic domain, a serine-threonine-rich domain, and a carboxy-terminal type 2 chitin-binding domain. The association of purified KlCts1p with chitin is stable in the presence of high salt concentrations and pH 3 to 10 buffers; however, complete dissociation and release of fully active KlCts1p occur in 20 mM NaOH. Similarly, secreted human serum albumin harboring a carboxy-terminal fusion with the chitin-binding domain derived from KlCts1p also dissociates from chitin in 20 mM NaOH, demonstrating the domain's potential utility as an affinity tag for reversible chitin immobilization or purification of alkaliphilic or alkali-tolerant recombinant fusion proteins. Finally, haploid K. lactis cells harboring a cts1 null mutation are viable but exhibit a cell separation defect, suggesting that KlCts1p is required for normal cytokinesis, probably by facilitating the degradation of septum-localized chitin. PMID:15932978

Characterization of a nucleus-encoded chitinase from the yeast Kluyveromyces lactis.

PubMed

Colussi, Paul A; Specht, Charles A; Taron, Christopher H

2005-06-01

Endogenous proteins secreted from Kluyveromyces lactis were screened for their ability to bind to or to hydrolyze chitin. This analysis resulted in identification of a nucleus-encoded extracellular chitinase (KlCts1p) with a chitinolytic activity distinct from that of the plasmid-encoded killer toxin alpha-subunit. Sequence analysis of cloned KlCTS1 indicated that it encodes a 551-amino-acid chitinase having a secretion signal peptide, an amino-terminal family 18 chitinase catalytic domain, a serine-threonine-rich domain, and a carboxy-terminal type 2 chitin-binding domain. The association of purified KlCts1p with chitin is stable in the presence of high salt concentrations and pH 3 to 10 buffers; however, complete dissociation and release of fully active KlCts1p occur in 20 mM NaOH. Similarly, secreted human serum albumin harboring a carboxy-terminal fusion with the chitin-binding domain derived from KlCts1p also dissociates from chitin in 20 mM NaOH, demonstrating the domain's potential utility as an affinity tag for reversible chitin immobilization or purification of alkaliphilic or alkali-tolerant recombinant fusion proteins. Finally, haploid K. lactis cells harboring a cts1 null mutation are viable but exhibit a cell separation defect, suggesting that KlCts1p is required for normal cytokinesis, probably by facilitating the degradation of septum-localized chitin.

An Early Nodulin-Like Protein Accumulates in the Sieve Element Plasma Membrane of Arabidopsis1[OA

PubMed Central

Khan, Junaid A.; Wang, Qi; Sjölund, Richard D.; Schulz, Alexander; Thompson, Gary A.

2007-01-01

Membrane proteins within the sieve element-companion cell complex have essential roles in the physiological functioning of the phloem. The monoclonal antibody line RS6, selected from hybridomas raised against sieve elements isolated from California shield leaf (Streptanthus tortuosus; Brassicaceae) tissue cultures, recognizes an antigen in the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) ecotype Columbia that is associated specifically with the plasma membrane of sieve elements, but not companion cells, and accumulates at the earliest stages of sieve element differentiation. The identity of the RS6 antigen was revealed by reverse transcription-PCR of Arabidopsis leaf RNA using degenerate primers to be an early nodulin (ENOD)-like protein that is encoded by the expressed gene At3g20570. Arabidopsis ENOD-like proteins are encoded by a multigene family composed of several types of structurally related phytocyanins that have a similar overall domain structure of an amino-terminal signal peptide, plastocyanin-like copper-binding domain, proline/serine-rich domain, and carboxy-terminal hydrophobic domain. The amino- and carboxy-terminal domains of the 21.5-kD sieve element-specific ENOD are posttranslationally cleaved from the precursor protein, resulting in a mature peptide of approximately 15 kD that is attached to the sieve element plasma membrane via a carboxy-terminal glycosylphosphatidylinositol membrane anchor. Many of the Arabidopsis ENOD-like proteins accumulate in gametophytic tissues, whereas in both floral and vegetative tissues, the sieve element-specific ENOD is expressed only within the phloem. Members of the ENOD subfamily of the cupredoxin superfamily do not appear to bind copper and have unknown functions. Phenotypic analysis of homozygous T-DNA insertion mutants for the gene At3g20570 shows minimal alteration in vegetative growth but a significant reduction in the overall reproductive potential. PMID:17293437

An early nodulin-like protein accumulates in the sieve element plasma membrane of Arabidopsis.

PubMed

Khan, Junaid A; Wang, Qi; Sjölund, Richard D; Schulz, Alexander; Thompson, Gary A

2007-04-01

Membrane proteins within the sieve element-companion cell complex have essential roles in the physiological functioning of the phloem. The monoclonal antibody line RS6, selected from hybridomas raised against sieve elements isolated from California shield leaf (Streptanthus tortuosus; Brassicaceae) tissue cultures, recognizes an antigen in the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) ecotype Columbia that is associated specifically with the plasma membrane of sieve elements, but not companion cells, and accumulates at the earliest stages of sieve element differentiation. The identity of the RS6 antigen was revealed by reverse transcription-PCR of Arabidopsis leaf RNA using degenerate primers to be an early nodulin (ENOD)-like protein that is encoded by the expressed gene At3g20570. Arabidopsis ENOD-like proteins are encoded by a multigene family composed of several types of structurally related phytocyanins that have a similar overall domain structure of an amino-terminal signal peptide, plastocyanin-like copper-binding domain, proline/serine-rich domain, and carboxy-terminal hydrophobic domain. The amino- and carboxy-terminal domains of the 21.5-kD sieve element-specific ENOD are posttranslationally cleaved from the precursor protein, resulting in a mature peptide of approximately 15 kD that is attached to the sieve element plasma membrane via a carboxy-terminal glycosylphosphatidylinositol membrane anchor. Many of the Arabidopsis ENOD-like proteins accumulate in gametophytic tissues, whereas in both floral and vegetative tissues, the sieve element-specific ENOD is expressed only within the phloem. Members of the ENOD subfamily of the cupredoxin superfamily do not appear to bind copper and have unknown functions. Phenotypic analysis of homozygous T-DNA insertion mutants for the gene At3g20570 shows minimal alteration in vegetative growth but a significant reduction in the overall reproductive potential.

Identification of interaction domains within the UL37 tegument protein of herpes simplex virus type 1.

PubMed

Bucks, Michelle A; Murphy, Michael A; O'Regan, Kevin J; Courtney, Richard J

2011-07-20

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) UL37 is a 1123 amino acid tegument protein that self-associates and binds to the tegument protein UL36 (VP1/2). Studies were undertaken to identify regions of UL37 involved in these protein-protein interactions. Coimmunoprecipitation assays showed that residues within the carboxy-terminal half of UL37, amino acids 568-1123, are important for interaction with UL36. Coimmunoprecipitation assays also revealed that amino acids 1-300 and 568-1123 of UL37 are capable of self-association. UL37 appears to self-associate only under conditions when UL36 is not present or is present in low amounts, suggesting UL36 and UL37 may compete for binding. Transfection-infection experiments were performed to identify domains of UL37 that complement the UL37 deletion virus, K∆UL37. The carboxy-terminal region of UL37 (residues 568-1123) partially rescues the K∆UL37 infection. These results suggest the C-terminus of UL37 may contribute to its essential functional role within the virus-infected cell. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ubiquitin vinyl methyl ester binding orients the misaligned active site of the ubiquitin hydrolase UCHL1 into productive conformation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Boudreaux, David A.; Maiti, Tushar K.; Davies, Christopher W.

Ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) is a Parkinson disease-associated, putative cysteine protease found abundantly and selectively expressed in neurons. The crystal structure of apo UCHL1 showed that the active-site residues are not aligned in a canonical form, with the nucleophilic cysteine being 7.7 {angstrom} from the general base histidine, an arrangement consistent with an inactive form of the enzyme. Here we report the crystal structures of the wild type and two Parkinson disease-associated variants of the enzyme, S18Y and I93M, bound to a ubiquitin-based suicide substrate, ubiquitin vinyl methyl ester. These structures reveal that ubiquitin vinyl methyl ester binds primarilymore » at two sites on the enzyme, with its carboxy terminus at the active site and with its amino-terminal {beta}-hairpin at the distal site - a surface-exposed hydrophobic crevice 17 {angstrom} away from the active site. Binding at the distal site initiates a cascade of side-chain movements in the enzyme that starts at a highly conserved, surface-exposed phenylalanine and is relayed to the active site resulting in the reorientation and proximal placement of the general base within 4 {angstrom} of the catalytic cysteine, an arrangement found in productive cysteine proteases. Mutation of the distal-site, surface-exposed phenylalanine to alanine reduces ubiquitin binding and severely impairs the catalytic activity of the enzyme. These results suggest that the activity of UCHL1 may be regulated by its own substrate.« less

Metal stabilization of collagen and de novo designed mimetic peptides

PubMed Central

Parmar, Avanish S.; Xu, Fei; Pike, Douglas H.; Belure, Sandeep V.; Hasan, Nida F.; Drzewiecki, Kathryn E.; Shreiber, David I.; Nanda, Vikas

2017-01-01

We explore the design of metal binding sites to modulate triple-helix stability of collagen and collagen-mimetic peptides. Globular proteins commonly utilize metals to connect tertiary structural elements that are well separated in sequence, constraining structure and enhancing stability. It is more challenging to engineer structural metals into fibrous protein scaffolds, which lack the extensive tertiary contacts seen in globular proteins. In the collagen triple helix, the structural adjacency of the carboxy-termini of the three chains makes this region an attractive target for introducing metal binding sites. We engineered His3 sites based on structural modeling constraints into a series of designed homotrimeric and heterotrimeric peptides, assessing the capacity of metal binding to improve stability and in the case of heterotrimers, affect specificity of assembly. Notable enhancements in stability for both homo and heteromeric systems were observed upon addition of zinc(II) and several other metal ions only when all three histidine ligands were present. Metal binding affinities were consistent with the expected Irving-Williams series for imidazole. Unlike other metals tested, copper(II) also bound to peptides lacking histidine ligands. Acetylation of the peptide N-termini prevented copper binding, indicating proline backbone amide metal-coordination at this site. Copper similarly stabilized animal extracted Type I collagen in a metal specific fashion, highlighting the potential importance of metal homeostasis within the extracellular matrix. PMID:26225466

Metal Stabilization of Collagen and de Novo Designed Mimetic Peptides.

PubMed

Parmar, Avanish S; Xu, Fei; Pike, Douglas H; Belure, Sandeep V; Hasan, Nida F; Drzewiecki, Kathryn E; Shreiber, David I; Nanda, Vikas

2015-08-18

We explore the design of metal binding sites to modulate triple-helix stability of collagen and collagen-mimetic peptides. Globular proteins commonly utilize metals to connect tertiary structural elements that are well separated in sequence, constraining structure and enhancing stability. It is more challenging to engineer structural metals into fibrous protein scaffolds, which lack the extensive tertiary contacts seen in globular proteins. In the collagen triple helix, the structural adjacency of the carboxy-termini of the three chains makes this region an attractive target for introducing metal binding sites. We engineered His3 sites based on structural modeling constraints into a series of designed homotrimeric and heterotrimeric peptides, assessing the capacity of metal binding to improve stability and in the case of heterotrimers, affect specificity of assembly. Notable enhancements in stability for both homo- and heteromeric systems were observed upon addition of zinc(II) and several other metal ions only when all three histidine ligands were present. Metal binding affinities were consistent with the expected Irving-Williams series for imidazole. Unlike other metals tested, copper(II) also bound to peptides lacking histidine ligands. Acetylation of the peptide N-termini prevented copper binding, indicating proline backbone amide metal-coordination at this site. Copper similarly stabilized animal extracted Type I collagen in a metal-specific fashion, highlighting the potential importance of metal homeostasis within the extracellular matrix.

The activity and stability of the transcriptional coactivator p/CIP/SRC-3 are regulated by CARM1-dependent methylation.

PubMed

Naeem, Hina; Cheng, Donghang; Zhao, Qingshi; Underhill, Caroline; Tini, Marc; Bedford, Marc T; Torchia, Joseph

2007-01-01

The transcriptional coactivator p/CIP(SRC-3/AIB1/ACTR/RAC3) binds liganded nuclear hormone receptors and facilitates transcription by directly recruiting accessory factors such as acetyltransferase CBP/p300 and the coactivator arginine methyltransferase CARM1. In the present study, we have established that recombinant p/CIP (p300/CBP interacting protein) is robustly methylated by CARM1 in vitro but not by other protein arginine methyltransferase family members. Metabolic labeling of MCF-7 breast cancer cells with S-adenosyl-L-[methyl-(3)H]methionine and immunoblotting using dimethyl arginine-specific antibodies demonstrated that p/CIP is specifically methylated in intact cells. In addition, methylation of full-length p/CIP is not supported by extracts derived from CARM1(-/-) mouse embryo fibroblasts, indicating that CARM1 is required for p/CIP methylation. Using mass spectrometry, we have identified three CARM1-dependent methylation sites located in a glutamine-rich region within the carboxy terminus of p/CIP which are conserved among all steroid receptor coactivator proteins. These results were confirmed by in vitro methylation of p/CIP using carboxy-terminal truncation mutants and synthetic peptides as substrates for CARM1. Analysis of methylation site mutants revealed that arginine methylation causes an increase in full-length p/CIP turnover as a result of enhanced degradation. Additionally, methylation negatively impacts transcription via a second mechanism by impairing the ability of p/CIP to associate with CBP. Collectively, our data highlight coactivator methylation as an important regulatory mechanism in hormonal signaling.

The carboxy-terminal tail or the intracellular loop 3 is required for β-arrestin-dependent internalization of a mammalian type II GnRH receptor.

PubMed

Madziva, Michael T; Mkhize, Nonhlanhla N; Flanagan, Colleen A; Katz, Arieh A

2015-08-15

The type II GnRH receptor (GnRH-R2) in contrast to mammalian type I GnRH receptor (GnRH-R1) has a cytosolic carboxy-terminal tail. We investigated the role of β-arrestin 1 in GnRH-R2-mediated signalling and mapped the regions in GnRH-R2 required for recruitment of β-arrestin, employing internalization assays. We show that GnRH-R2 activation of ERK is dependent on β-arrestin and protein kinase C. Appending the tail of GnRH-R2 to GnRH-R1 enabled GRK- and β-arrestin-dependent internalization of the chimaeric receptor. Surprisingly, carboxy-terminally truncated GnRH-R2 retained β-arrestin and GRK-dependent internalization, suggesting that β-arrestin interacts with additional elements of GnRH-R2. Mutating serine and threonine or basic residues of intracellular loop 3 did not abolish β-arrestin 1-dependent internalization but a receptor lacking these basic residues and the carboxy-terminus showed no β-arrestin 1-dependent internalization. Our results suggest that basic residues at the amino-terminal end of intracellular loop 3 or the carboxy-terminal tail are required for β-arrestin dependent internalization. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Erv1p from Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a FAD-linked sulfhydryl oxidase.

PubMed

Lee, J; Hofhaus, G; Lisowsky, T

2000-07-14

The yeast ERV1 gene encodes a small polypeptide of 189 amino acids that is essential for mitochondrial function and for the viability of the cell. In this study we report the enzymatic activity of this protein as a flavin-linked sulfhydryl oxidase catalyzing the formation of disulfide bridges. Deletion of the amino-terminal part of Erv1p shows that the enzyme activity is located in the 15 kDa carboxy-terminal domain of the protein. This fragment of Erv1p still binds FAD and catalyzes the formation of disulfide bonds but is no longer able to form dimers like the complete protein. The carboxy-terminal fragment contains a conserved CXXC motif that is present in all homologous proteins from yeast to human. Thus Erv1p represents the first FAD-linked sulfhydryl oxidase from yeast and the first of these enzymes that is involved in mitochondrial biogenesis.

The Oncoprotein Tax Binds the SRC-1-Interacting Domain of CBP/p300 To Mediate Transcriptional Activation

PubMed Central

Scoggin, Kirsten E. S.; Ulloa, Aida; Nyborg, Jennifer K.

2001-01-01

Oncogenesis associated with human T-cell leukemia virus (HTLV) infection is directly linked to the virally encoded transcription factor Tax. To activate HTLV-1 transcription Tax interacts with the cellular protein CREB and the pleiotropic coactivators CBP and p300. While extensively studied, the molecular mechanisms of Tax transcription function and coactivator utilization are not fully understood. Previous studies have focused on Tax binding to the KIX domain of CBP, as this was believed to be the key step in recruiting the coactivator to the HTLV-1 promoter. In this study, we identify a carboxy-terminal region of CBP (and p300) that strongly interacts with Tax and mediates Tax transcription function. Through deletion mutagenesis, we identify amino acids 2003 to 2212 of CBP, which we call carboxy-terminal region 2 (CR2), as the minimal region for Tax interaction. Interestingly, this domain corresponds to the steroid receptor coactivator 1 (SRC-1)-interacting domain of CBP. We show that a double point mutant targeted to one of the putative α-helical motifs in this domain significantly compromises the interaction with Tax. We also characterize the region of Tax responsible for interaction with CR2 and show that the previously identified transactivation domain of Tax (amino acids 312 to 319) participates in CR2 binding. This region of Tax corresponds to a consensus amphipathic helix, and single point mutations targeted to amino acids on the face of this helix abolish interaction with CR2 and dramatically reduce Tax transcription function. Finally, we demonstrate that Tax and SRC-1 bind to CR2 in a mutually exclusive fashion. Together, these studies identify a novel Tax-interacting site on CBP/p300 and extend our understanding of the molecular mechanism of Tax transactivation. PMID:11463834

Amino- and carboxy-terminal deletion mutants of Gs alpha are localized to the particulate fraction of transfected COS cells

PubMed Central

1992-01-01

To elucidate the structural basis for membrane attachment of the alpha subunit of the stimulatory G protein (Gs alpha), mutant Gs alpha cDNAs with deletions of amino acid residues in the amino and/or carboxy termini were transiently expressed in COS-7 cells. The particulate and soluble fractions prepared from these cells were analyzed by immunoblot using peptide specific antibodies to monitor distribution of the expressed proteins. Transfection of mutant forms of Gs alpha with either 26 amino terminal residues deleted (delta 3-28) or with 59 amino terminal residues deleted (delta 1-59) resulted in immunoreactive proteins which localized primarily to the particulate fraction. Similarly, mutants with 10 (delta 385-394), 32 (delta 353-384), or 42 (delta 353-394) amino acid residues deleted from the carboxy terminus also localized to the particulate fraction, as did a mutant form of Gs alpha lacking amino acid residues at both the amino and carboxy termini (delta 3-28)/(delta 353-384). Mutant and wild type forms of Gs alpha demonstrated a similar degree of tightness in their binding to membranes as demonstrated by treatment with 2.5 M NaCl or 6 M urea, but some mutant forms were relatively resistant compared with wild type Gs alpha to solubilization by 15 mM NaOH or 1% sodium cholate. We conclude that: (a) deletion of significant portions of the amino and/or carboxyl terminus of Gs alpha is still compatible with protein expression; (b) deletion of these regions is insufficient to cause cytosolic localization of the expressed protein. The basis of Gs alpha membrane targeting remains to be elucidated. PMID:1400589

Cdyl: a new transcriptional co-repressor

PubMed Central

Caron, Cécile; Pivot-Pajot, Christophe; van Grunsven, Leo A.; Col, Edwige; Lestrat, Cécile; Rousseaux, Sophie; Khochbin, Saadi

2003-01-01

Cdyl (chromodomain-Y-like) is a chromodomain-containing protein that is predominantly expressed during mouse spermiogenesis. In its carboxy-terminal portion, there is a domain with homology to the coenzyme A (CoA) pocket of the enoyl-CoA hydratase/isomerase, which is shown here to be able to bind CoA and histone deacetylases (HDACs). It also efficiently represses transcription. Moreover, the binding of Hdac1 represses the ability of Cdyl to bind CoA, and a Cdyl–CoA interaction only occurs in the absence of HDACs. These data suggest that Cdyl is primarily a transcriptional co-repressor. However, the degradation of cellular Hdac1 and Hdac2, as observed here in the elongating spermatids, may provide an HDAC-free environment in which Cdyl could bind CoA and participate in the global chromatin remodelling that occurs in these cells. PMID:12947414

Synthesis and physicochemical properties of the furan dicarboxylic acid, 3-carboxy-4-methyl-5-propyl-2-furanpropanoic acid, an inhibitor of plasma protein binding in uraemia.

PubMed

Costigan, M G; Gilchrist, T L; Lindup, W E

1996-06-01

The furan dicarboxylic acid, 3-carboxy-4-methyl-5-propyl-2-furanpropanoic acid (5-propyl FPA) accumulates in the plasma of patients with chronic renal failure and is a major contributor to the drug binding defect of uraemic plasma. This acid has also been implicated in several other aspects of the uraemic syndrome: anaemia, irregularities of thyroid function, neurological symptoms and inhibition of active tubular secretion. The acid is not commercially available and its synthesis, starting with Meldrum's acid and methyl succinyl chloride, is described. The pKa values were measured by titration and values of 3.2 and 3.6 respectively were assigned to the carboxylic acid groups attached directly to the ring at position 3 and at position 2 (on the side-chain). The partition coefficient (log P) between hydrochloric acid and octanol was 1.2 and the distribution coefficient (log D; octanol-phosphate buffer pH 7.4) was -0.59. The pKa values and the degree of hydrophobic character of 5-propyl FPA are consistent with those of other protein-bound acids which undergo active tubular secretion by the kidney and this substance may serve as an endogenous marker for the effects of drugs and disease on this process.

Structural evidence for the role of polar core residue Arg175 in arrestin activation

PubMed Central

Granzin, Joachim; Stadler, Andreas; Cousin, Anneliese; Schlesinger, Ramona; Batra-Safferling, Renu

2015-01-01

Binding mechanism of arrestin requires photoactivation and phosphorylation of the receptor protein rhodopsin, where the receptor bound phosphate groups cause displacement of the long C-tail ‘activating’ arrestin. Mutation of arginine 175 to glutamic acid (R175E), a central residue in the polar core and previously predicted as the ‘phosphosensor’ leads to a pre-active arrestin that is able to terminate phototransduction by binding to non-phosphorylated, light-activated rhodopsin. Here, we report the first crystal structure of a R175E mutant arrestin at 2.7 Å resolution that reveals significant differences compared to the basal state reported in full-length arrestin structures. These differences comprise disruption of hydrogen bond network in the polar core, and three-element interaction including disordering of several residues in the receptor-binding finger loop and the C-terminus (residues 361–404). Additionally, R175E structure shows a 7.5° rotation of the amino and carboxy-terminal domains relative to each other. Consistent to the biochemical data, our structure suggests an important role of R29 in the initial activation step of C-tail release. Comparison of the crystal structures of basal arrestin and R175E mutant provide insights into the mechanism of arrestin activation, where binding of the receptor likely induces structural changes mimicked as in R175E. PMID:26510463

Structural evidence for the role of polar core residue Arg175 in arrestin activation.

PubMed

Granzin, Joachim; Stadler, Andreas; Cousin, Anneliese; Schlesinger, Ramona; Batra-Safferling, Renu

2015-10-29

Binding mechanism of arrestin requires photoactivation and phosphorylation of the receptor protein rhodopsin, where the receptor bound phosphate groups cause displacement of the long C-tail 'activating' arrestin. Mutation of arginine 175 to glutamic acid (R175E), a central residue in the polar core and previously predicted as the 'phosphosensor' leads to a pre-active arrestin that is able to terminate phototransduction by binding to non-phosphorylated, light-activated rhodopsin. Here, we report the first crystal structure of a R175E mutant arrestin at 2.7 Å resolution that reveals significant differences compared to the basal state reported in full-length arrestin structures. These differences comprise disruption of hydrogen bond network in the polar core, and three-element interaction including disordering of several residues in the receptor-binding finger loop and the C-terminus (residues 361-404). Additionally, R175E structure shows a 7.5° rotation of the amino and carboxy-terminal domains relative to each other. Consistent to the biochemical data, our structure suggests an important role of R29 in the initial activation step of C-tail release. Comparison of the crystal structures of basal arrestin and R175E mutant provide insights into the mechanism of arrestin activation, where binding of the receptor likely induces structural changes mimicked as in R175E.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

French, Jarrod B.; Ealick, Steven E.

The stereospecific oxidative degradation of uric acid to (S)-allantoin was recently shown to proceed via three enzymatic steps. The final conversion is a decarboxylation of the unstable intermediate 2-oxo-4-hydroxy-4-carboxy-5-ureidoimidazoline (OHCU) and is catalyzed by OHCU decarboxylase. Here we present the structures of Klebsiella pneumoniae OHCU decarboxylase in unliganded form and with bound allantoin. These structures provide evidence that ligand binding organizes the active site residues for catalysis. Modeling of the substrate and intermediates provides additional support for this hypothesis. In addition we characterize the steady state kinetics of this enzyme and report the first OHCU decarboxylase inhibitor, allopurinol, a structuralmore » isomer of hypoxanthine. This molecule is a competitive inhibitor of K. pneumoniae OHCU decarboxylase with a K{sub i} of 30 {+-} 2 {micro}m. Circular dichroism measurements confirm structural observations that this inhibitor disrupts the necessary organization of the active site. Our structural and biochemical studies also provide further insights into the mechanism of catalysis of OHCU decarboxylation.« less

Chicken genome analysis reveals novel genes encoding biotin-binding proteins related to avidin family

PubMed Central

Niskanen, Einari A; Hytönen, Vesa P; Grapputo, Alessandro; Nordlund, Henri R; Kulomaa, Markku S; Laitinen, Olli H

2005-01-01

Background A chicken egg contains several biotin-binding proteins (BBPs), whose complete DNA and amino acid sequences are not known. In order to identify and characterise these genes and proteins we studied chicken cDNAs and genes available in the NCBI database and chicken genome database using the reported N-terminal amino acid sequences of chicken egg-yolk BBPs as search strings. Results Two separate hits showing significant homology for these N-terminal sequences were discovered. For one of these hits, the chromosomal location in the immediate proximity of the avidin gene family was found. Both of these hits encode proteins having high sequence similarity with avidin suggesting that chicken BBPs are paralogous to avidin family. In particular, almost all residues corresponding to biotin binding in avidin are conserved in these putative BBP proteins. One of the found DNA sequences, however, seems to encode a carboxy-terminal extension not present in avidin. Conclusion We describe here the predicted properties of the putative BBP genes and proteins. Our present observations link BBP genes together with avidin gene family and shed more light on the genetic arrangement and variability of this family. In addition, comparative modelling revealed the potential structural elements important for the functional and structural properties of the putative BBP proteins. PMID:15777476

Multiple protein–protein interactions converging on the Prp38 protein during activation of the human spliceosome

PubMed Central

Schütze, Tonio; Ulrich, Alexander K.C.; Apelt, Luise; Will, Cindy L.; Bartlick, Natascha; Seeger, Martin; Weber, Gert; Lührmann, Reinhard; Stelzl, Ulrich; Wahl, Markus C.

2016-01-01

Spliceosomal Prp38 proteins contain a conserved amino-terminal domain, but only higher eukaryotic orthologs also harbor a carboxy-terminal RS domain, a hallmark of splicing regulatory SR proteins. We show by crystal structure analysis that the amino-terminal domain of human Prp38 is organized around three pairs of antiparallel α-helices and lacks similarities to RNA-binding domains found in canonical SR proteins. Instead, yeast two-hybrid analyses suggest that the amino-terminal domain is a versatile protein–protein interaction hub that possibly binds 12 other spliceosomal proteins, most of which are recruited at the same stage as Prp38. By quantitative, alanine surface-scanning two-hybrid screens and biochemical analyses we delineated four distinct interfaces on the Prp38 amino-terminal domain. In vitro interaction assays using recombinant proteins showed that Prp38 can bind at least two proteins simultaneously via two different interfaces. Addition of excess Prp38 amino-terminal domain to in vitro splicing assays, but not of an interaction-deficient mutant, stalled splicing at a precatalytic stage. Our results show that human Prp38 is an unusual SR protein, whose amino-terminal domain is a multi-interface protein–protein interaction platform that might organize the relative positioning of other proteins during splicing. PMID:26673105

(R,S)-3-Carb-oxy-2-(isoquinolinium-2-yl)propanoate monohydrate.

PubMed

Stilinović, Vladimir; Frkanec, Leo; Kaitner, Branko

2010-05-22

The title compound, C(13)H(11)NO(4)·H(2)O, is a monohydrate of a betaine exhibiting a positively charged N-substituted isoquino-line group and a deprotonated carboxyl group. In the crystal, mol-ecules are connected via short O-H⋯O hydrogen bonds between protonated and deprotonated carboxyl groups into chains of either R or S enanti-omers along [001]. These chains are additionally connected by hydrogen bonding between water mol-ecules and the deprotonated carb-oxy groups of neighbouring mol-ecules.

Akt phosphorylation regulates the tumour-suppressor merlin through ubiquitination and degradation.

PubMed

Tang, Xiaoling; Jang, Sung-Wuk; Wang, Xuerong; Liu, Zhixue; Bahr, Scott M; Sun, Shi-Yong; Brat, Daniel; Gutmann, David H; Ye, Keqiang

2007-10-01

The neurofibromatosis-2 (NF2) tumour-suppressor gene encodes an intracellular membrane-associated protein, called merlin, whose growth-suppressive function is dependent on its ability to form interactions through its intramolecular amino-terminal domain (NTD) and carboxy-terminal domain (CTD). Merlin phosphorylation plays a critical part in dictating merlin NTD/CTD interactions as well as in controlling binding to its effector proteins. Merlin is partially regulated by phosphorylation of Ser 518, such that hyperphosphorylated merlin is inactive and fails to form productive intramolecular and intermolecular interactions. Here, we show that the protein kinase Akt directly binds to and phosphorylates merlin on residues Thr 230 and Ser 315, which abolishes merlin NTD/CTD interactions and binding to merlin's effector protein PIKE-L and other binding partners. Furthermore, Akt-mediated phosphorylation leads to merlin degradation by ubiquitination. These studies demonstrate that Akt-mediated merlin phosphorylation regulates the function of merlin in the absence of an inactivating mutation.

catena-Poly[[bis­(4-carboxy­cyclo­hexane­carboxyl­ato-κ2 O 1,O 1′)cadmium(II)]-μ-1,4-bis­(imidazol-1-ylmeth­yl)benzene-κ2 N 3:N 3′

PubMed Central

Li, Bing-Bing; Xiao, Bo

2009-01-01

In the title coordination polymer, [Cd(C8H11O4)2(C14H14N4)]n, the Cd atom (site symmetry 2) is six-coordin­ated by two O,O′-bidentate 4-carboxy­cyclo­hexa­necarboxyl­ate (Hchdc) ligands and two N atoms from two different 1,4-bis­(imidazol-1-ylmeth­yl)benzene (1,4-bix) mol­ecules in a very distorted cis-CdN2O4 octa­hedral environment. The 1,4-bix mol­ecules act as bridging ligands that bind two CdII atoms, thus forming an infinite chain propagating in [100], which is decorated by the Hchdc anions. The structure is completed by O—H⋯O hydrogen bonds, which link the chains together. PMID:21582692

Controlling surface-segregation of a polymer to display carboxy groups on an outermost surface using perfluoroacyl groups.

PubMed

Nishimori, Keisuke; Kitahata, Shigeru; Nishino, Takashi; Maruyama, Tatsuo

2018-05-10

Controlling the surface properties of solid polymers is important for practical applications. We here succeeded in controlling the surface segregation of polymers to display carboxy groups on an outermost surface, which allowed the covalent immobilization of functional molecules via the carboxy groups on a substrate surface. Random methacrylate-based copolymers containing carboxy groups, in which carboxy groups were protected with perfluoroacyl (Rf) groups, were dip-coated on acrylic substrate surfaces. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and contact-angle measurements revealed that the Rf groups were segregated to the outermost surface of the dip-coated substrates. The Rf groups were removed by hydrolysis of the Rf esters in the copolymers, resulting in the display of carboxy groups on the surface. The quantification of carboxy groups on a surface revealed that the carboxy groups were reactive to a water-soluble solute in aqueous solution. The surface segregation was affected by the molecular structure of the copolymer used for dip-coating.

The NS1 polypeptide of the murine parvovirus minute virus of mice binds to DNA sequences containing the motif [ACCA]2-3.

PubMed Central

Cotmore, S F; Christensen, J; Nüesch, J P; Tattersall, P

1995-01-01

A DNA fragment containing the minute virus of mice 3' replication origin was specifically coprecipitated in immune complexes containing the virally coded NS1, but not the NS2, polypeptide. Antibodies directed against the amino- or carboxy-terminal regions of NS1 precipitated the NS1-origin complexes, but antibodies directed against NS1 amino acids 284 to 459 blocked complex formation. Using affinity-purified histidine-tagged NS1 preparations, we have shown that the specific protein-DNA interaction is of moderate affinity, being stable in 0.1 M salt but rapidly lost at higher salt concentrations. In contrast, generalized (or nonspecific) DNA binding by NS1 could be demonstrated only in low salt. Addition of ATP or gamma S-ATP enhanced specific DNA binding by wild-type NS1 severalfold, but binding was lost under conditions which favored ATP hydrolysis. NS1 molecules with mutations in a critical lysine residue (amino acid 405) in the consensus ATP-binding site bound to the origin, but this binding could not be enhanced by ATP addition. DNase I protection assays carried out with wild-type NS1 in the presence of gamma S-ATP gave footprints which extended over 43 nucleotides on both DNA strands, from the middle of the origin bubble sequence to a position some 14 bp beyond the nick site. The DNA-binding site for NS1 was mapped to a 22-bp fragment from the middle of the 3' replication origin which contains the sequence ACCAACCA. This conforms to a reiterated motif (ACCA)2-3, which occurs, in more or less degenerate form, at many sites throughout the minute virus of mice genome (J. W. Bodner, Virus Genes 2:167-182, 1989). Insertion of a single copy of the sequence (ACCA)3 was shown to be sufficient to confer NS1 binding on an otherwise unrecognized plasmid fragment. The functions of NS1 in the viral life cycle are reevaluated in the light of this result. PMID:7853501

The NS1 polypeptide of the murine parvovirus minute virus of mice binds to DNA sequences containing the motif [ACCA]2-3.

PubMed

Cotmore, S F; Christensen, J; Nüesch, J P; Tattersall, P

1995-03-01

A DNA fragment containing the minute virus of mice 3' replication origin was specifically coprecipitated in immune complexes containing the virally coded NS1, but not the NS2, polypeptide. Antibodies directed against the amino- or carboxy-terminal regions of NS1 precipitated the NS1-origin complexes, but antibodies directed against NS1 amino acids 284 to 459 blocked complex formation. Using affinity-purified histidine-tagged NS1 preparations, we have shown that the specific protein-DNA interaction is of moderate affinity, being stable in 0.1 M salt but rapidly lost at higher salt concentrations. In contrast, generalized (or nonspecific) DNA binding by NS1 could be demonstrated only in low salt. Addition of ATP or gamma S-ATP enhanced specific DNA binding by wild-type NS1 severalfold, but binding was lost under conditions which favored ATP hydrolysis. NS1 molecules with mutations in a critical lysine residue (amino acid 405) in the consensus ATP-binding site bound to the origin, but this binding could not be enhanced by ATP addition. DNase I protection assays carried out with wild-type NS1 in the presence of gamma S-ATP gave footprints which extended over 43 nucleotides on both DNA strands, from the middle of the origin bubble sequence to a position some 14 bp beyond the nick site. The DNA-binding site for NS1 was mapped to a 22-bp fragment from the middle of the 3' replication origin which contains the sequence ACCAACCA. This conforms to a reiterated motif (ACCA)2-3, which occurs, in more or less degenerate form, at many sites throughout the minute virus of mice genome (J. W. Bodner, Virus Genes 2:167-182, 1989). Insertion of a single copy of the sequence (ACCA)3 was shown to be sufficient to confer NS1 binding on an otherwise unrecognized plasmid fragment. The functions of NS1 in the viral life cycle are reevaluated in the light of this result.

Regulation of lipid droplet and membrane biogenesis by the acidic tail of the phosphatidate phosphatase Pah1p

PubMed Central

Karanasios, Eleftherios; Barbosa, Antonio Daniel; Sembongi, Hiroshi; Mari, Muriel; Han, Gil-Soo; Reggiori, Fulvio; Carman, George M.; Siniossoglou, Symeon

2013-01-01

Lipins are evolutionarily conserved phosphatidate phosphatases that perform key functions in phospholipid, triglyceride, and membrane biogenesis. Translocation of lipins on membranes requires their dephosphorylation by the Nem1p-Spo7p transmembrane phosphatase complex through a poorly understood mechanism. Here we identify the carboxy-terminal acidic tail of the yeast lipin Pah1p as an important regulator of this step. Deletion or mutations of the tail disrupt binding of Pah1p to the Nem1p-Spo7p complex and Pah1p membrane translocation. Overexpression of Nem1p-Spo7p drives the recruitment of Pah1p in the vicinity of lipid droplets in an acidic tail–dependent manner and induces lipid droplet biogenesis. Genetic analysis shows that the acidic tail is essential for the Nem1p-Spo7p–dependent activation of Pah1p but not for the function of Pah1p itself once it is dephosphorylated. Loss of the tail disrupts nuclear structure, INO1 gene expression, and triglyceride synthesis. Similar acidic sequences are present in the carboxy-terminal ends of all yeast lipin orthologues. We propose that acidic tail–dependent binding and dephosphorylation of Pah1p by the Nem1p-Spo7p complex is an important determinant of its function in lipid and membrane biogenesis. PMID:23657815

Non-canonical active site architecture of the radical SAM thiamin pyrimidine synthase.

PubMed

Fenwick, Michael K; Mehta, Angad P; Zhang, Yang; Abdelwahed, Sameh H; Begley, Tadhg P; Ealick, Steven E

2015-03-27

Radical S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) enzymes use a [4Fe-4S] cluster to generate a 5'-deoxyadenosyl radical. Canonical radical SAM enzymes are characterized by a β-barrel-like fold and SAM anchors to the differentiated iron of the cluster, which is located near the amino terminus and within the β-barrel, through its amino and carboxylate groups. Here we show that ThiC, the thiamin pyrimidine synthase in plants and bacteria, contains a tethered cluster-binding domain at its carboxy terminus that moves in and out of the active site during catalysis. In contrast to canonical radical SAM enzymes, we predict that SAM anchors to an additional active site metal through its amino and carboxylate groups. Superimposition of the catalytic domains of ThiC and glutamate mutase shows that these two enzymes share similar active site architectures, thus providing strong evidence for an evolutionary link between the radical SAM and adenosylcobalamin-dependent enzyme superfamilies.

Polymeric Additives For Graphite/Epoxy Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kourtides, D. A.; Nir, Z.

1990-01-01

Report describes experimental studies of properties of several graphite/epoxy composites containing polymeric additives as flexibilizing or toughening agents. Emphasizes effects of brominated polymeric additives (BPA's) with or without carboxy-terminated butadiene acrylonitrile rubber. Reviews effects of individual and combined additives on fracture toughnesses, environmental stabilities, hot/wet strengths, thermomechanical behaviors, and other mechanical properties of composites.

Identification of transformation products of antiviral drugs formed during biological wastewater treatment and their occurrence in the urban water cycle.

PubMed

Funke, Jan; Prasse, Carsten; Ternes, Thomas A

2016-07-01

The fate of five antiviral drugs (abacavir, emtricitabine, ganciclovir, lamivudine and zidovudine) was investigated in biological wastewater treatment. Investigations of degradation kinetics were accompanied by the elucidation of formed transformation products (TPs) using activated sludge lab experiments and subsequent LC-HRMS analysis. Degradation rate constants ranged between 0.46 L d(-1) gSS(-1) (zidovudine) and 55.8 L d(-1) gSS(-1) (abacavir). Despite these differences of the degradation kinetics, the same main biotransformation reaction was observed for all five compounds: oxidation of the terminal hydroxyl-moiety to the corresponding carboxylic acid (formation of carboxy-TPs). In addition, the oxidation of thioether moieties to sulfoxides was observed for emtricitabine and lamivudine. Antiviral drugs were detected in influents of municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) with concentrations up to 980 ng L(-1) (emtricitabine), while in WWTP effluents mainly the TPs were found with concentration levels up to 1320 ng L(-1) (carboxy-abacavir). Except of zidovudine none of the original antiviral drugs were detected in German rivers and streams, whereas the concentrations of the TPs ranged from 16 ng L(-1) for carboxy-lamivudine up to 750 ng L(-1) for carboxy-acyclovir. These concentrations indicate an appreciable portion from WWTP effluents present in rivers and streams, as well as the high environmental persistence of the carboxy-TPs. As a result three of the carboxylic TPs were detected in finished drinking water. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Human autoantibody to topoisomerase II.

PubMed

Hoffmann, A; Heck, M M; Bordwell, B J; Rothfield, N F; Earnshaw, W C

1989-02-01

The rheumatic diseases are characterized by the production of autoantibodies that are usually directed against components of the cell nucleus. In this communication, we describe autoantibodies that recognize DNA topoisomerase II (anti-topoII) present in the serum of a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus. Several lines of evidence indicate that this antibody recognizes topoisomerase II. First, it binds to the native enzyme in soluble extracts prepared from isolated chromosomes and effectively depletes such extracts of active enzyme. Second, the serum binds to topoisomerase II in immunoblots of mitotic chromosomes and chromosome scaffolds. Finally, the antiserum binds strongly to a fusion protein encoded by a cloned cDNA and expressed in Escherichia coli that (based on immunological evidence) represents the carboxy-terminal portion of chicken topoisomerase II. Autoantibodies such as the one described here may provide useful reagents for the study of human topoisomerase II.

Study of adsorption mechanism of heavy metals onto waste biomass (wheat bran).

PubMed

Ogata, Fumihiko; Kangawa, Moe; Tominaga, Hisato; Tanaka, Yuko; Ueda, Ayaka; Iwata, Yuka; Kawasaki, Naohito

2013-01-01

In this study, raw wheat bran (R-WB), a type of waste biomass (WB) was treated with Pectinase PL (P-WB), and the properties (yield percentage, carboxy group surface concentration, the solution pH, and specific surface area) of R-WB and P-WB were investigated. The surface concentration of carboxy groups on R-WB (3.56 mmol/g) was greater than that of P-WB (2.11 mmol/g). In contrast, the specific surface area of P-WB (24.98 m²/g) was greater than that of R-WB (3.25 m²/g). In addition, the adsorption of cadmium and lead ions to WB was evaluated. Adsorption of the heavy-metal ions reached equilibrium within 9 h, and the experimental data was fitted to a pseudo-second-order model. More heavy-metal ions were adsorbed onto R-WB than onto P-WB. The correlation coefficient between the amount of ions adsorbed and the number of carboxy groups or pectin exceeded 0.884 and 0.975, respectively. This study indicated that wheat bran was useful for the removal of cadmium or lead ions from aqueous solutions. The adsorption mechanism of cadmium and lead ions to WB was associated with presence of carboxy group in pectin.

The early mature part of bacterial twin-arginine translocation (Tat) precursor proteins contributes to TatBC receptor binding.

PubMed

Ulfig, Agnes; Freudl, Roland

2018-05-11

The twin-arginine translocation (Tat) pathway transports folded proteins across bacterial membranes. Tat precursor proteins possess a conserved twin-arginine (RR) motif in their signal peptides that is involved in the binding of the proteins to the membrane-associated TatBC receptor complex. In addition, the hydrophobic region in the Tat signal peptides also contributes to TatBC binding, but whether regions beyond the signal-peptide cleavage site are involved in this process is unknown. Here, we analyzed the contribution of the early mature protein part of the Escherichia coli trimethylamine N -oxide reductase (TorA) to productive TatBC receptor binding. We identified substitutions in the 30 amino acids immediately following the TorA signal peptide (30aa-region) that restored export of a transport-defective TorA[KQ]-30aa-MalE precursor, in which the RR residues had been replaced by a lysine-glutamine pair. Some of these substitutions increased the hydrophobicity of the N-terminal part of the 30aa-region and thereby likely enhanced hydrophobic substrate-receptor interactions within the hydrophobic TatBC substrate-binding cavity. Another class of substitutions increased the positive net charge of the region's C-terminal part, presumably leading to strengthened electrostatic interactions between the mature substrate part and the cytoplasmic TatBC regions. Furthermore, we identified substitutions in the C-terminal domains of TatB following the transmembrane segment that restored transport of various transport-defective TorA-MalE derivatives. Some of these substitutions most likely affected the orientation or conformation of the flexible, carboxy-proximal helices of TatB. Therefore, we propose that a tight accommodation of the folded mature region by TatB contributes to productive binding of Tat substrates to TatBC. © 2018 Ulfig and Freudl.

Scrutinizing MHC-I binding peptides and their limits of variation.

PubMed

Koch, Christian P; Perna, Anna M; Pillong, Max; Todoroff, Nickolay K; Wrede, Paul; Folkers, Gerd; Hiss, Jan A; Schneider, Gisbert

2013-01-01

Designed peptides that bind to major histocompatibility protein I (MHC-I) allomorphs bear the promise of representing epitopes that stimulate a desired immune response. A rigorous bioinformatical exploration of sequence patterns hidden in peptides that bind to the mouse MHC-I allomorph H-2K(b) is presented. We exemplify and validate these motif findings by systematically dissecting the epitope SIINFEKL and analyzing the resulting fragments for their binding potential to H-2K(b) in a thermal denaturation assay. The results demonstrate that only fragments exclusively retaining the carboxy- or amino-terminus of the reference peptide exhibit significant binding potential, with the N-terminal pentapeptide SIINF as shortest ligand. This study demonstrates that sophisticated machine-learning algorithms excel at extracting fine-grained patterns from peptide sequence data and predicting MHC-I binding peptides, thereby considerably extending existing linear prediction models and providing a fresh view on the computer-based molecular design of future synthetic vaccines. The server for prediction is available at http://modlab-cadd.ethz.ch (SLiDER tool, MHC-I version 2012).

Identification and Characterization of the Novel LysM Domain-Containing Surface Protein Sep from Lactobacillus fermentum BR11 and Its Use as a Peptide Fusion Partner in Lactobacillus and Lactococcus

PubMed Central

Turner, Mark S.; Hafner, Louise M.; Walsh, Terry; Giffard, Philip M.

2004-01-01

Examination of supernatant fractions from broth cultures of Lactobacillus fermentum BR11 revealed the presence of a number of proteins, including a 27-kDa protein termed Sep. The amino-terminal sequence of Sep was determined, and the gene encoding it was cloned and sequenced. Sep is a 205-amino-acid protein and contains a 30-amino-acid secretion signal and has overall homology (between 39 and 92% identity) with similarly sized proteins of Lactobacillus reuteri, Enterococcus faecium, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Lactobacillus plantarum. The carboxy-terminal 81 amino acids of Sep also have strong homology (86% identity) to the carboxy termini of the aggregation-promoting factor (APF) surface proteins of Lactobacillus gasseri and Lactobacillus johnsonii. The mature amino terminus of Sep contains a putative peptidoglycan-binding LysM domain, thereby making it distinct from APF proteins. We have identified a common motif within LysM domains that is shared with carbohydrate binding YG motifs which are found in streptococcal glucan-binding proteins and glucosyltransferases. Sep was investigated as a heterologous peptide expression vector in L. fermentum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Lactococcus lactis MG1363. Modified Sep containing an amino-terminal six-histidine epitope was found associated with the cells but was largely present in the supernatant in the L. fermentum, L. rhamnosus, and L. lactis hosts. Sep as well as the previously described surface protein BspA were used to express and secrete in L. fermentum or L. rhamnosus a fragment of human E-cadherin, which contains the receptor region for Listeria monocytogenes. This study demonstrates that Sep has potential for heterologous protein expression and export in lactic acid bacteria. PMID:15184172

Sequence characterization of S100A8 gene reveals structural differences of protein and transcriptional factor binding sites in water buffalo and yak.

PubMed

Kathiravan, P; Goyal, S; Kataria, R S; Mishra, B P; Jayakumar, S; Joshi, B K

2011-01-01

The present study was undertaken to characterize the structure of S100A8 gene and its promoter in water buffalo and yak. Sequence data of 2.067 kb, 2.071 kb, and 2.052 kb with respect to complete S100A8 gene including 5' flanking region was generated in river buffalo, swamp buffalo, and yak, respectively. BLAST analysis of coding DNA sequences (CDS) of S100A8 gene revealed 95% homology of buffalo sequence with cattle, 85% with pig and horse, 83% with dog, 72-73% with murines, and around 79% with primates and humans. Phylogenetic analysis of predicted CDS revealed distinct clustering of murines, primates, and domestic animals with bovines and bubalines forming a subcluster among farm animals. In silico translation of predicted CDS revealed a sequence of 89 amino acids with 7 amino acid changes between cattle and buffalo and 2 changes between cattle and yak. The search for Pfam family revealed the N-terminal calcium binding domain and the noncanonical EF hand domain in the carboxy terminus, with more variations being observed in the N-terminal domain among different species. Two amino acid changes observed in carboxy terminal EF hand domain resulted in altered secondary structure of yak S100A8 protein. Analysis of S100A8 gene promoter revealed 14 putative motifs for transcriptional factor binding sites. Two putative motifs viz. C/EBP and v-Myb were found to be absent in swamp buffalo as compared to river buffalo and cattle. Differences in the structure of S100A8 protein and the transcriptional factor binding sites identified in the present study need to be analyzed further for their functional significance in yak and swamp buffalo respectively. Copyright © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC

Multiple protein-protein interactions converging on the Prp38 protein during activation of the human spliceosome.

PubMed

Schütze, Tonio; Ulrich, Alexander K C; Apelt, Luise; Will, Cindy L; Bartlick, Natascha; Seeger, Martin; Weber, Gert; Lührmann, Reinhard; Stelzl, Ulrich; Wahl, Markus C

2016-02-01

Spliceosomal Prp38 proteins contain a conserved amino-terminal domain, but only higher eukaryotic orthologs also harbor a carboxy-terminal RS domain, a hallmark of splicing regulatory SR proteins. We show by crystal structure analysis that the amino-terminal domain of human Prp38 is organized around three pairs of antiparallel α-helices and lacks similarities to RNA-binding domains found in canonical SR proteins. Instead, yeast two-hybrid analyses suggest that the amino-terminal domain is a versatile protein-protein interaction hub that possibly binds 12 other spliceosomal proteins, most of which are recruited at the same stage as Prp38. By quantitative, alanine surface-scanning two-hybrid screens and biochemical analyses we delineated four distinct interfaces on the Prp38 amino-terminal domain. In vitro interaction assays using recombinant proteins showed that Prp38 can bind at least two proteins simultaneously via two different interfaces. Addition of excess Prp38 amino-terminal domain to in vitro splicing assays, but not of an interaction-deficient mutant, stalled splicing at a precatalytic stage. Our results show that human Prp38 is an unusual SR protein, whose amino-terminal domain is a multi-interface protein-protein interaction platform that might organize the relative positioning of other proteins during splicing. © 2016 Schütze et al.; Published by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press for the RNA Society.

Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Targeted to the Tumor Vasculature for Breast Cancer Treatment

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-09-01

using 1 -ethyl- 3 -[ dimethylaminopropyl ]carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC). The binding of SWNT-annexin V to PS will be measured using PS immobilized on...ADDRESS. 1 . REPORT DATE (DD-MM-YYYY) -09-200 2. REPORT TYPE Final 3 . DATES COVERED (From - To) 16 Aug 2007 – 15 Aug 2009 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE...Conjugation of Annexin V to SWNTs Using the Linker Fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl (Fmoc)-amine-PEG-succinimidyl Carboxy Methyl Ester 1 . Add 3 mg of SWNTs to 7

The cytosolic carboxypeptidases CCP2 and CCP3 catalyze posttranslational removal of acidic amino acids

PubMed Central

Tort, Olivia; Tanco, Sebastián; Rocha, Cecilia; Bièche, Ivan; Seixas, Cecilia; Bosc, Christophe; Andrieux, Annie; Moutin, Marie-Jo; Avilés, Francesc Xavier; Lorenzo, Julia; Janke, Carsten

2014-01-01

The posttranslational modification of carboxy-terminal tails of tubulin plays an important role in the regulation of the microtubule cytoskeleton. Enzymes responsible for deglutamylating tubulin have been discovered within a novel family of mammalian cytosolic carboxypeptidases. The discovery of these enzymes also revealed the existence of a range of other substrates that are enzymatically deglutamylated. Only four of six mammalian cytosolic carboxypeptidases had been enzymatically characterized. Here we complete the functional characterization of this protein family by demonstrating that CCP2 and CCP3 are deglutamylases, with CCP3 being able to hydrolyze aspartic acids with similar efficiency. Deaspartylation is a novel posttranslational modification that could, in conjunction with deglutamylation, broaden the range of potential substrates that undergo carboxy-terminal processing. In addition, we show that CCP2 and CCP3 are highly regulated proteins confined to ciliated tissues. The characterization of two novel enzymes for carboxy-terminal protein modification provides novel insights into the broadness of this barely studied process. PMID:25103237

Removal of uranium (VI) from aqueous systems by nanoscale zero-valent iron particles suspended in carboxy-methyl cellulose

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Popescu (Hoştuc), Ioana-Carmen; Filip, Petru; Humelnicu, Doina; Humelnicu, Ionel; Scott, Thomas Bligh; Crane, Richard Andrew

2013-11-01

Carboxy-methyl-cellulose (CMC), a common "delivery vehicle" for the subsurface deployment of iron nanoparticles (INP) has been tested in the current work for the removal of aqueous uranium from synthetic water samples. A comparison of the removal of aqueous uranium from solutions using carboxy-methyl-cellulose with and without iron nanoparticles (CMC-INP and CMC, respectively) was tested over a 48 h reaction period. Analysis of liquid samples using spectrophotometry determined a maximum sorption capacity of uranium, Qmax, of 185.18 mg/g and 322.58 mg/g for CMC and CMC-INP respectively, providing strong evidence of an independent aqueous uranium removal ability exhibited by CMC. The results point out that CMC provides an additional capacity for aqueous uranium removal. Further tests are required to determine whether similar behaviour will be observed for other aqueous contaminant species and if the presence of CMC within a INP slurry inhibits or aids the reactivity, reductive capacity and affinity of INP for aqueous contaminant removal.

Promiscuous partnerships in Ewing's sarcoma.

PubMed

Sankar, Savita; Lessnick, Stephen L

2011-07-01

Ewing's sarcoma is a highly aggressive bone and soft tissue tumor of children and young adults. At the molecular genetic level Ewing's sarcoma is characterized by a balanced reciprocal translocation, t(11;22)(q24;q12), which encodes an oncogenic fusion protein and transcription factor EWS/FLI. This tumor-specific chimeric fusion retains the amino terminus of EWS, a member of the TET (TLS/EWS/TAF15) family of RNA-binding proteins, and the carboxy terminus of FLI, a member of the ETS family of transcription factors. In addition to EWS/FLI, variant translocation fusions belonging to the TET/ETS family have been identified in Ewing's sarcoma. These studies solidified the importance of TET/ETS fusions in the pathogenesis of Ewing's sarcoma and have since been used as diagnostic markers for the disease. EWS fusions with non-ETS transcription factor family members have been described in sarcomas that are clearly distinct from Ewing's sarcoma. However, in recent years there have been reports of rare fusions in "Ewing's-like tumors" that harbor the amino-terminus of EWS fused to the carboxy-terminal DNA or chromatin-interacting domains contributed by non-ETS proteins. This review aims to summarize the growing list of fusion oncogenes that characterize Ewing's sarcoma and Ewing's-like tumors and highlights important questions that need to be answered to further support the existing concept that Ewing's sarcoma is strictly a "TET/ETS" fusion-driven malignancy. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of action of the various different fusion oncogenes will provide better insights into the biology underlying this rare but important solid tumor. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Regulation of the sodium bicarbonate cotransporter kNBC1 function: role of Asp(986), Asp(988) and kNBC1-carbonic anhydrase II binding.

PubMed

Gross, Eitan; Pushkin, Alexander; Abuladze, Natalia; Fedotoff, Olga; Kurtz, Ira

2002-11-01

The HCO(3)(-) : Na(+) cotransport stoichiometry of the electrogenic sodium bicarbonate cotransporter kNBC1 determines the reversal potential (E(rev)) and thus the net direction of transport of these ions through the cotransporter. Previously, we showed that phosphorylation of kNBC1-Ser(982) in the carboxy-terminus of kNBC1 (kNBC1-Ct), by cAMP-protein kinase A (PKA), shifts the stoichiometry from 3 : 1 to 2 : 1 and that binding of bicarbonate to the cotransporter is electrostaticaly modulated. These results raise the possibility that phosphorylated kNBC1-Ser(982), or other nearby negatively charged residues shift the stoichiometry by blocking a bicarbonate-binding site. In the current study, we examined the role of the negative charge on Ser(982)-phosphate and three aspartate residues in a D986NDD custer in altering the stoichiometry of kNBC1. mPCT cells expressing kNBC1 mutants were grown on filters and mounted in an Ussing chamber for electrophysiological studies. Enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP)-tagged mutant constructs expressed in the same cells were used to determine the phosphorylation status of kNBC1-Ser(982). The data indicate that both kNBC1-Asp(986) and kNBC1-Asp(988), but not kNBC1-Asp(989), are required for the phosphorylation-induced shift in stoichiometry. A homologous motif (D887ADD) in the carboxy-terminus of the anion exchanger AE1 binds to carbonic anhydrase II (CAII). In isothermal titration calorimetry experiments, CAII was found to bind to kNBC1-Ct with a K(D) of 160 +/- 10 nM. Acetazolamide inhibited the short-circuit current through the cotransporter by 65 % when the latter operated in the 3 : 1 mode, but had no effect on the current in the 2 : 1 mode. Acetazolamide did not affect the cotransport stoichiometry or the ability of 8-Br-cAMP to shift the stoichiometry. Although CAII does not affect the transport stoichiometry, it may play an important role in enhancing the flux through the transporter when kNBC1-Ser(982) is unphosphorylated.

Mapping Protein–Protein Interactions of the Resistance-Related Bacterial Zeta Toxin–Epsilon Antitoxin Complex (ε2ζ2) with High Affinity Peptide Ligands Using Fluorescence Polarization

PubMed Central

Fernández-Bachiller, María Isabel; Brzozowska, Iwona; Odolczyk, Norbert; Zielenkiewicz, Urszula; Zielenkiewicz, Piotr; Rademann, Jörg

2016-01-01

Toxin–antitoxin systems constitute a native survival strategy of pathogenic bacteria and thus are potential targets of antibiotic drugs. Here, we target the Zeta–Epsilon toxin–antitoxin system, which is responsible for the stable maintenance of certain multiresistance plasmids in Gram-positive bacteria. Peptide ligands were designed on the basis of the ε2ζ2 complex. Three α helices of Zeta forming the protein–protein interaction (PPI) site were selected and peptides were designed conserving the residues interacting with Epsilon antitoxin while substituting residues binding intramolecularly to other parts of Zeta. Designed peptides were synthesized with an N-terminal fluoresceinyl-carboxy-residue for binding assays and provided active ligands, which were used to define the hot spots of the ε2ζ2 complex. Further shortening and modification of the binding peptides provided ligands with affinities <100 nM, allowing us to determine the most relevant PPIs and implement a robust competition binding assay. PMID:27438853

Mapping Protein-Protein Interactions of the Resistance-Related Bacterial Zeta Toxin-Epsilon Antitoxin Complex (ε₂ζ₂) with High Affinity Peptide Ligands Using Fluorescence Polarization.

PubMed

Fernández-Bachiller, María Isabel; Brzozowska, Iwona; Odolczyk, Norbert; Zielenkiewicz, Urszula; Zielenkiewicz, Piotr; Rademann, Jörg

2016-07-16

Toxin-antitoxin systems constitute a native survival strategy of pathogenic bacteria and thus are potential targets of antibiotic drugs. Here, we target the Zeta-Epsilon toxin-antitoxin system, which is responsible for the stable maintenance of certain multiresistance plasmids in Gram-positive bacteria. Peptide ligands were designed on the basis of the ε₂ζ₂ complex. Three α helices of Zeta forming the protein-protein interaction (PPI) site were selected and peptides were designed conserving the residues interacting with Epsilon antitoxin while substituting residues binding intramolecularly to other parts of Zeta. Designed peptides were synthesized with an N-terminal fluoresceinyl-carboxy-residue for binding assays and provided active ligands, which were used to define the hot spots of the ε₂ζ₂ complex. Further shortening and modification of the binding peptides provided ligands with affinities <100 nM, allowing us to determine the most relevant PPIs and implement a robust competition binding assay.

Structural Requirements For Bone Sialoprotein Binding And Modulation Of Matrix Metalloproteinase-2

PubMed Central

Jain, Alka; Karadag, Abdullah; Fisher, Larry W.; Fedarko, Neal S.

2008-01-01

Bone sialoprotein (BSP) has been shown to induce limited gelatinase activity in latent matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) without removal of the propeptide and to restore enzymatic activity to MMP-2 previously inhibited by tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP2). The current study identifies structural domains in human BSP and MMP-2 that contribute to these interactions. The 26 amino acid domain encoded by exon 4 of BSP is shown by a series of binding and activity assays to be involved in the displacement of MMP-2′s propeptide from the active site and thereby inducing the protease activity. Binding assays in conjunction with enzyme activity assays demonstrate that both amino- and carboxy-terminal domains of BSP contribute to restoration of activity to TIMP2-inhibited MMP-2, while the MMP-2 hemopexin domain is not required for reactivation. PMID:18729384

Structural requirements for bone sialoprotein binding and modulation of matrix metalloproteinase-2.

PubMed

Jain, Alka; Karadag, Abdullah; Fisher, Larry W; Fedarko, Neal S

2008-09-23

Bone sialoprotein (BSP) has been shown to induce limited gelatinase activity in latent matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) without removal of the propeptide and to restore enzymatic activity to MMP-2 previously inhibited by tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP2). The current study identifies structural domains in human BSP and MMP-2 that contribute to these interactions. The 26 amino acid domain encoded by exon 4 of BSP is shown by a series of binding and activity assays to be involved in the displacement of MMP-2's propeptide from the active site and thereby inducing the protease activity. Binding assays in conjunction with enzyme activity assays demonstrate that both amino- and carboxy-terminal domains of BSP contribute to restoration of activity to TIMP2-inhibited MMP-2, while the MMP-2 hemopexin domain is not required for reactivation.

Frizzled 7 and PIP2 binding by syntenin PDZ2 domain supports Frizzled 7 trafficking and signalling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Egea-Jimenez, Antonio Luis; Gallardo, Rodrigo; Garcia-Pino, Abel; Ivarsson, Ylva; Wawrzyniak, Anna Maria; Kashyap, Rudra; Loris, Remy; Schymkowitz, Joost; Rousseau, Frederic; Zimmermann, Pascale

2016-07-01

PDZ domain-containing proteins work as intracellular scaffolds to control spatio-temporal aspects of cell signalling. This function is supported by the ability of their PDZ domains to bind other proteins such as receptors, but also phosphoinositide lipids important for membrane trafficking. Here we report a crystal structure of the syntenin PDZ tandem in complex with the carboxy-terminal fragment of Frizzled 7 and phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2). The crystal structure reveals a tripartite interaction formed via the second PDZ domain of syntenin. Biophysical and biochemical experiments establish co-operative binding of the tripartite complex and identify residues crucial for membrane PIP2-specific recognition. Experiments with cells support the importance of the syntenin-PIP2 interaction for plasma membrane targeting of Frizzled 7 and c-jun phosphorylation. This study contributes to our understanding of the biology of PDZ proteins as key players in membrane compartmentalization and dynamics.

Characterization of interactions between Nedd4 and beta and gammaENaC using surface plasmon resonance.

PubMed

Asher, C; Chigaev, A; Garty, H

2001-09-07

Cell surface expression of the epithelial Na(+) channel ENaC is regulated by the ubiquitin ligase Nedd4. Binding of the WW domains of Nedd4 to the PY region in the carboxy tails of beta and gammaENaC, results in channel ubiquitination and degradation. Kinetic analysis of these interactions has been done using surface plasmon resonance. Synthetic peptides corresponding to the PY regions of beta and gammaENaC were immobilized on a sensor chip and "real-time" kinetics of their binding to recombinant WW proteins was determined. Specificity of the interactions was established by competition experiment, as well as by monitoring effects of a point mutation known to impair Nedd4/ENaC binding. These data provides the first determination of association, dissociation and equilibrium constants for the interactions between WW2 and beta or gammaENaC. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

Topological disposition of the sequences -QRKIVE- and -KETYY in native (Na sup + + K sup + )-ATPase

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bayer, R.

1990-03-06

The dispositions with respect to the plane of the membrane of lysine-905 in the internal sequence -EQRKIVE- and of lysine-1012 in the carboxy-terminal sequence -RRPGGWVEKETYY of the {alpha}-polypeptide of sodium and potassium ion activated adenosinetriphosphatase have been determined. These lysines are found in peptides released from the intact {alpha}-polypeptide by the extracellular protease from Staphylococcus aureus strain V8 and by trypsin, respectively. Synthetic peptides containing terminal sequences of these were used to prepare polyclonal antibodies, which were then used to prepare immunoadsorbents directed against the respective peptides. Sealed, right-side-out membrane vesicles containing native (Na{sup +} + K{sup +})-ATPase were labeledmore » with pyridoxal phosphate and sodium ({sup 3}H)borohydride in the absence or presence of saponin. The labeled {alpha}-polypeptide was isolated from these vesicles and digested with appropriate proteases. The incorporation of radioactivity into the peptides binding to the immunoadsorbent directed against the sequence pyrERXIVE increased 3-fold int the presence of saponin as a result of the increased accessibility of this portion of the protein to the reagent when the vesicles were breached by saponin; hence, this sequence is located on the cytoplasmic face of the membrane. It was inferred that the carboxy-terminal sequence -KETYY is on the extracytoplasmic face since the incorporation of radioactivity into peptides binding to the immunoadsorbent directed against the sequence -ETYY did not change when the vesicles were breached with saponin.« less

The Carboxy-Terminal Domain of Erb1 Is a Seven-Bladed ß-Propeller that Binds RNA

PubMed Central

Marcin, Wegrecki; Neira, Jose Luis; Bravo, Jeronimo

2015-01-01

Erb1 (Eukaryotic Ribosome Biogenesis 1) protein is essential for the maturation of the ribosomal 60S subunit. Functional studies in yeast and mammalian cells showed that altogether with Nop7 and Ytm1 it forms a stable subcomplex called PeBoW that is crucial for a correct rRNA processing. The exact function of the protein within the process remains unknown. The N-terminal region of the protein includes a well conserved region shown to be involved in PeBoW complex formation whereas the carboxy-terminal half was predicted to contain seven WD40 repeats. This first structural report on Erb1 from yeast describes the architecture of a seven-bladed β-propeller domain that revealed a characteristic extra motif formed by two α-helices and a β-strand that insert within the second WD repeat. We performed analysis of molecular surface and crystal packing, together with multiple sequence alignment and comparison of the structure with other β-propellers, in order to identify areas that are more likely to mediate protein-protein interactions. The abundance of many positively charged residues on the surface of the domain led us to investigate whether the propeller of Erb1 might be involved in RNA binding. Three independent assays confirmed that the protein interacted in vitro with polyuridilic acid (polyU), thus suggesting a possible role of the domain in rRNA rearrangement during ribosome biogenesis. PMID:25880847

Identification of a Signal-Responsive Nuclear Export Sequence in Class II Histone Deacetylases

PubMed Central

McKinsey, Timothy A.; Zhang, Chun Li; Olson, Eric N.

2001-01-01

Activation of muscle-specific genes by the MEF2 transcription factor is inhibited by class II histone deacetylases (HDACs) 4 and 5, which contain carboxy-terminal deacetylase domains and amino-terminal extensions required for association with MEF2. The inhibitory action of HDACs is overcome by myogenic signals which disrupt MEF2-HDAC interactions and stimulate nuclear export of these transcriptional repressors. Nucleocytoplasmic trafficking of HDAC5 is mediated by binding of the chaperone protein 14-3-3 to two phosphoserine residues (Ser-259 and Ser-498) in its amino-terminal extension. Here we show that HDAC4 and -5 each contain a signal-responsive nuclear export sequence (NES) at their extreme carboxy termini. The NES is conserved in another class II HDAC, HDAC7, but is absent in class I HDACs and the HDAC-related corepressor, MEF2-interacting transcription repressor. Our results suggest that this conserved NES is inactive in unphosphorylated HDAC5, which is localized to the nucleus, and that calcium-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMK)-dependent binding of 14-3-3 to phosphoserines 259 and 498 activates the NES, with consequent export of the transcriptional repressor to the cytoplasm. A single amino acid substitution in this NES is sufficient to retain HDAC5 in the nucleus in the face of CaMK signaling. These findings provide molecular insight into the mechanism by which extracellular cues alter chromatin structure to promote muscle differentiation and other MEF2-regulated processes. PMID:11509672

A Conformational Investigation of Propeptide Binding to the Integral Membrane Protein γ-Glutamyl Carboxylase Using Nanodisc Hydrogen Exchange Mass Spectrometry

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Gamma (γ)-glutamyl carboxylase (GGCX) is an integral membrane protein responsible for the post-translational catalytic conversion of select glutamic acid (Glu) residues to γ-carboxy glutamic acid (Gla) in vitamin K-dependent (VKD) proteins. Understanding the mechanism of carboxylation and the role of GGCX in the vitamin K cycle is of biological interest in the development of therapeutics for blood coagulation disorders. Historically, biophysical investigations and structural characterizations of GGCX have been limited due to complexities involving the availability of an appropriate model membrane system. In previous work, a hydrogen exchange mass spectrometry (HX MS) platform was developed to study the structural configuration of GGCX in a near-native nanodisc phospholipid environment. Here we have applied the nanodisc–HX MS approach to characterize specific domains of GGCX that exhibit structural rearrangements upon binding the high-affinity consensus propeptide (pCon; AVFLSREQANQVLQRRRR). pCon binding was shown to be specific for monomeric GGCX-nanodiscs and promoted enhanced structural stability to the nanodisc-integrated complex while maintaining catalytic activity in the presence of carboxylation co-substrates. Noteworthy modifications in HX of GGCX were prominently observed in GGCX peptides 491–507 and 395–401 upon pCon association, consistent with regions previously identified as sites for propeptide and glutamate binding. Several additional protein regions exhibited minor gains in solvent protection upon propeptide incorporation, providing evidence for a structural reorientation of the GGCX complex in association with VKD carboxylation. The results herein demonstrate that nanodisc–HX MS can be utilized to study molecular interactions of membrane-bound enzymes in the absence of a complete three-dimensional structure and to map dynamic rearrangements induced upon ligand binding. PMID:24512177

Two new mutations in the 3' coding region of the glycogen debranching enzyme in a glycogen storage disease type IIIa Ashkenazi Jewish patient.

PubMed

Parvari, R; Shen, J; Hershkovitz, E; Chen, Y T; Moses, S W

1998-04-01

Glycogen storage disease type III (GSD III) is an autosomal recessive disease caused by the deficiency of glycogen debranching enzyme (AGL). We report the finding of two new mutations in a GSD IIIa Ashkenazi Jewish patient. Both mutations are insertion of an adenine into a stretch of 8 adenines towards the 3' end of the coding region, one at position 3904 (3904insA) in exon 30, the second at position 4214 (4214insA) in exon 32. The mutations cause frameshifts and premature terminations of the glycogen debranching enzyme, the first causing a frameshift at amino acid 1304, the second causing a frameshift at amino acid 1408 of the total of 1532. These mutations demonstrate the importance of the 125 amino acids at the carboxy-terminus of the debrancher enzyme for its activity and support the suggestion that the putative glycogen binding domain is located in the carboxy-terminus of the AGL. The mutations cause distinctive single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) patterns enabling easy detection.

Ligand design, synthesis and biological anti-HCV evaluations for genotypes 1b and 4a of certain 4-(3- & 4-[3-(3,5-dibromo-4-hydroxyphenyl)-propylamino]phenyl) butyric acids and 3-(3,5-dibromo-4-hydroxyphenyl)-propylamino-acetamidobenzoic acid esters.

PubMed

Ismail, Mohamed Abdel Hamid; Abouzid, Khaled A M; Mohamed, Nasser Saad; Dokla, Eman Mahmoud Elawady

2013-12-01

4-(4-[N-1-carboxy-3-(3,5-dibromo-4-hydroxyphenyl)-3-oxo-propylamino]phenyl)-4-oxo-butyric acid (V), 4-(3- & 4-[N-1-carboxy-3-(3,5-dibromo-4-hydroxyphenyl)-3-oxo-propylaminophenyl]-2-aryl-4-oxo-butyric acids (Xa-e) and 4-(2-alkyl-2-[N-3-(3,5-dibromo-4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-carboxy-3-oxo-propylamino]acetamido) benzoate esters (XVa-e) were designed, synthesized and biologically evaluated as anti-HCV for genotypes 1b and 4a. The design was based on their docking scores with HCV NS3/4A protease-binding site of the genotype 1b (1W3C), which is conserved in the genotype 4a structure. The docking scores predicted that most of these molecules have higher affinity to the HCV NS3/4A enzyme more than Indoline lead. These compounds were synthesized and evaluated for their cytopathic inhibitory activity against RAW HCV cell cultures of genotype 4a and also examined against Huh 5-2 HCV cell culture of genotype 1b, utilizing Luciferase and MTS assays. Compounds Xa and Xb have 95 and 80% of the activity of Ribavirin against genotype 4a and compounds XVa, XVb and XVd exerted high percentage inhibitory activity against genotype 1b equal 87.7, 84.3 and 82.8%, respectively, with low EC50 doses.

Endosomal sorting of GLUT4 and Gap1 is conserved between yeast and insulin-sensitive cells

PubMed Central

Shewan, Annette M.; McCann, Rebecca K.; Lamb, Christopher A.; Stirrat, Laura; Kioumourtzoglou, Dimitrios; Adamson, Iain S.; Verma, Suzie; James, David E.; Bryant, Nia J.

2013-01-01

Summary The insulin-regulated trafficking of the facilitative glucose transporter GLUT4 in human fat and muscle cells and the nitrogen-regulated trafficking of the general amino acid permease Gap1 in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae share several common features: Both Gap1 and GLUT4 are nutrient transporters that are mobilised to the cell surface from an intracellular store in response to an environmental cue; both are polytopic membrane proteins harbouring amino acid targeting motifs in their C-terminal tails that are required for their regulated trafficking; ubiquitylation of both Gap1 and GLUT4 plays an important role in their regulated trafficking, as do the ubiquitin-binding GGA (Golgi-localised, γ-ear-containing, ARF-binding) adaptor proteins. Here, we find that when expressed heterologously in yeast, human GLUT4 is subject to nitrogen-regulated trafficking in an ubiquitin-dependent manner similar to Gap1. In addition, by expressing a GLUT4/Gap1 chimeric protein in adipocytes we show that the carboxy-tail of Gap1 directs intracellular sequestration and insulin-regulated trafficking in adipocytes. These findings demonstrate that the trafficking signals and their cognate molecular regulatory machinery that mediate regulated exocytosis of membrane proteins are conserved across evolution. PMID:23424197

Development and evaluation of mucoadhesive nanoparticles based on thiolated Eudragit for oral delivery of protein drugs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yan; Yang, Zhijie; Hu, Xi; Zhang, Ling; Li, Feng; Li, Meimei; Tang, Xing; Xiao, Wei

2015-02-01

The objective of this study was to develop pH-sensitive Eudragit L100-cysteine/reduced glutathione (Eul-cys/GSH) nanoparticles (NPs), which provided the mucoadhesion and protection for protein drugs against enzymatic degradation. Insulin was chosen as a model biomolecule for testing this system. The Eul-cys conjugate, which was obtained by grafting cysteine onto the carboxy group of Eudragit L100, was analyzed by HNMR and SEM, and the swelling degree (SD), cation binding, and enzymatic inhibition were also determined. The results obtained showed that the Eul-cys conjugate represent a pH-sensitive delivery system which effectively protected the insulin from being degraded by the proteases, and this is related to the mechanism of Ca2+ binding. Insulin-loaded Eul-cys/GSH NPs were prepared by a diffusion method involving an electrostatic interaction between the network structure of the polymer and the embedded proteins, including insulin and GSH. TEM images indicated that Eul-cys/GSH existed as smooth and spherical NPs in aqueous solution with particle sizes of 260 ± 20 nm. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) findings showed the presence of amorphous insulin in thiolated NPs and higher free thiol oxidation than the result obtained by Ellman's reagent method. In addition, thiolated NPs showed excellent binding efficiency to the mucin in rat intestine, indicating that Eul-cys/GSH NPs have great potential to be applied as safe carriers for the oral administration of protein drugs.

Promiscuous Partnerships in Ewing’s Sarcoma

PubMed Central

Sankar, Savita; Lessnick, Stephen L.

2011-01-01

Ewing’s sarcoma is a highly aggressive bone and soft tissue tumor of children and young adults. At the molecular genetic level Ewing’s sarcoma is characterized by a balanced reciprocal translocation, t(11;22)(q24;q12), which encodes an oncogenic fusion protein and transcription factor EWS/FLI. This tumor-specific chimeric fusion retains the amino terminus of EWS, a member of the TET (TLS/EWS/TAF15) family of RNA-binding proteins, and the carboxy terminus of FLI, a member of the ETS family of transcription factors. In addition to EWS/FLI, variant translocation fusions belonging to the TET/ETS family have been identified in Ewing’s sarcoma. These studies solidified the importance of TET/ETS fusions in the pathogenesis of Ewing’s sarcoma and have since been used as diagnostic markers for the disease. EWS fusions with non-ETS transcription factor family members have been described in sarcomas that are clearly distinct from Ewing’s sarcoma. However, in recent years there have been reports of rare fusions in “Ewing’s-like tumors” that harbor the amino-terminus of EWS fused to the carboxy-terminal DNA or chromatin-interacting domains contributed by non-ETS proteins. This review aims to summarize the growing list of fusion oncogenes that characterize Ewing’s sarcoma and Ewing’s-like tumors and highlights important questions that need to be answered to further support the existing concept that Ewing’s sarcoma is strictly a “TET/ETS” fusion-driven malignancy. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of action of the various different fusion oncogenes will provide better insights into the biology underlying this rare but important solid tumor. PMID:21872822

Carboxy terminus of heat shock protein (HSP) 70-interacting protein (CHIP) inhibits HSP70 in the heart.

PubMed

Zhao, Bijun; Sun, Guocheng; Feng, Guanli; Duan, Weixun; Zhu, Xiaoling; Chen, Shaoyang; Hou, Lichao; Jin, Zhenxiao; Yi, Dinghua

2012-12-01

Heat shock protein (HSP) 70 plays a critical role in protecting the heart from various stressor-induced cell injuries; the mechanism remains to be further understood. The present study aims to elucidate the effect of a probiotics-derived protein, LGG-derived protein p75 (LGP), in alleviating the ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced heart injury. We treated rats with the I/R with or without preadministration with LGP. The levels of HSP70 and carboxy terminus of HSP70-interacting protein (CHIP) in the heart tissue were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blotting. The effect of CHIP on suppression of HSP70 and the effect of LGP on suppression of CHIP were investigated with an I/R rat model and a cell culture model. The results showed that I/R-induced infarction in the heart could be alleviated by pretreatment with LGP. HSP70 was detected in naïve rat heart tissue extracts. I/R treatment significantly suppressed the level of HSP70 and increased the levels of CHIP in the heart. A complex of CHIP/HSP70 was detected in heart tissue extracts. The addition of recombinant CHIP to culture inhibited HSP70 in heart cells. LGP was bound CHIP in heart cells and prevented the CHIP from binding HSP70. In summary, I/R can suppress HSP70 and increase CHIP in heart cells. CHIP can suppress HSP70 that can be prevented by pretreatment with LGP. The results imply that CHIP may be a potential target in the prevention of I/R-induced heart cell injury.

Non-canonical active site architecture of the radical SAM thiamin pyrimidine synthase

DOE PAGES

Fenwick, Michael K.; Mehta, Angad P.; Zhang, Yang; ...

2015-03-27

Radical S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) enzymes use a [4Fe-4S] cluster to generate a 5'-deoxyadenosyl radical. Canonical radical SAM enzymes are characterized by a β-barrel-like fold and SAM anchors to the differentiated iron of the cluster, which is located near the amino terminus and within the β-barrel, through its amino and carboxylate groups. Here we show that ThiC, the thiamin pyrimidine synthase in plants and bacteria, contains a tethered cluster-binding domain at its carboxy terminus that moves in and out of the active site during catalysis. In contrast to canonical radical SAM enzymes, we predict that SAM anchors to an additional active sitemore » metal through its amino and carboxylate groups. Superimposition of the catalytic domains of ThiC and glutamate mutase shows that these two enzymes share similar active site architectures, thus providing strong evidence for an evolutionary link between the radical SAM and adenosylcobalamin-dependent enzyme superfamilies.« less

Gating of human ClC-2 chloride channels and regulation by carboxy-terminal domains

PubMed Central

Garcia-Olivares, Jennie; Alekov, Alexi; Boroumand, Mohammad Reza; Begemann, Birgit; Hidalgo, Patricia; Fahlke, Christoph

2008-01-01

Eukaryotic ClC channels are dimeric proteins with each subunit forming an individual protopore. Single protopores are gated by a fast gate, whereas the slow gate is assumed to control both protopores through a cooperative movement of the two carboxy-terminal domains. We here study the role of the carboxy-terminal domain in modulating fast and slow gating of human ClC-2 channels, a ubiquitously expressed ClC-type chloride channel involved in transepithelial solute transport and in neuronal chloride homeostasis. Partial truncation of the carboxy-terminus abolishes function of ClC-2 by locking the channel in a closed position. However, unlike other isoforms, its complete removal preserves function of ClC-2. ClC-2 channels without the carboxy-terminus exhibit fast and slow gates that activate and deactivate significantly faster than in WT channels. In contrast to the prevalent view, a single carboxy-terminus suffices for normal slow gating, whereas both domains regulate fast gating of individual protopores. Our findings demonstrate that the carboxy-terminus is not strictly required for slow gating and that the cooperative gating resides in other regions of the channel protein. ClC-2 is expressed in neurons and believed to open at negative potentials and increased internal chloride concentrations after intense synaptic activity. We propose that the function of the ClC-2 carboxy-terminus is to slow down the time course of channel activation in order to stabilize neuronal excitability PMID:18801843

Gating of human ClC-2 chloride channels and regulation by carboxy-terminal domains.

PubMed

Garcia-Olivares, Jennie; Alekov, Alexi; Boroumand, Mohammad Reza; Begemann, Birgit; Hidalgo, Patricia; Fahlke, Christoph

2008-11-15

Eukaryotic ClC channels are dimeric proteins with each subunit forming an individual protopore. Single protopores are gated by a fast gate, whereas the slow gate is assumed to control both protopores through a cooperative movement of the two carboxy-terminal domains. We here study the role of the carboxy-terminal domain in modulating fast and slow gating of human ClC-2 channels, a ubiquitously expressed ClC-type chloride channel involved in transepithelial solute transport and in neuronal chloride homeostasis. Partial truncation of the carboxy-terminus abolishes function of ClC-2 by locking the channel in a closed position. However, unlike other isoforms, its complete removal preserves function of ClC-2. ClC-2 channels without the carboxy-terminus exhibit fast and slow gates that activate and deactivate significantly faster than in WT channels. In contrast to the prevalent view, a single carboxy-terminus suffices for normal slow gating, whereas both domains regulate fast gating of individual protopores. Our findings demonstrate that the carboxy-terminus is not strictly required for slow gating and that the cooperative gating resides in other regions of the channel protein. ClC-2 is expressed in neurons and believed to open at negative potentials and increased internal chloride concentrations after intense synaptic activity. We propose that the function of the ClC-2 carboxy-terminus is to slow down the time course of channel activation in order to stabilize neuronal excitability.

Rapid elimination of Carboxy-THC in a cohort of chronic cannabis users.

PubMed

Lewis, John; Molnar, Anna; Allsop, David; Copeland, Jan; Fu, Shanlin

2016-01-01

Urinary 11-nor-Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol-9-carboxylic acid (Carboxy-THC) concentrations, normalised to creatinine output, have been demonstrated to be a useful tool in the interpretation of the results of a series of urine tests for cannabis. These tests, often termed historical data, can be used to identify potential chronic cannabis users who may present occupational health and safety risks within the workplace. Conversely, the data can also be used to support employee claims of previous regular, rather than recent, cannabis use. This study aimed at examining the mean elimination of Carboxy-THC in 37 chronic users undergoing voluntary abstinence over a 2-week period. Urine specimens were collected prior to the study and after 1 and 2 weeks of abstinence. Carboxy-THC levels in urine were measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) following alkaline hydrolysis, organic solvent extraction and derivatisation to form its pentafluoropropionic derivative. The creatinine-normalised Carboxy-THC concentrations declined rapidly over the 2 weeks of abstinence period and the majority of chronic cannabis users (73%) reduced their urinary Carboxy-THC levels to below the 15-μg/L confirmatory cutoff within that time. The study further highlights the value of historical urinary Carboxy-THC data as a means of identifying potential occupational health and safety risks among chronic cannabis users.

Effects of agents that inactivate free radical NO (NO•) on nitroxyl anion-mediated relaxations, and on the detection of NO• released from the nitroxyl anion donor Angeli's salt

PubMed Central

Ellis, Anthie; Lu, Hong; Li, Chun Guang; Rand, Michael J

2001-01-01

The effects of agents that inactivate free radical nitric oxide (carboxy-PTIO, hydroxocobalamin and pyrogallol) were tested on relaxations produced by the nitroxyl anion (NO−) donor Angeli's salt in rat aortic rings and anococcygeus muscles. The amount of NO• generated from Angeli's salt in the presence of these agents was measured using a NO•-selective electrode sensor. Carboxy-PTIO (100, 300 μM), hydroxocobalamin (30, 100 μM) and pyrogallol (10, 30 μM) significantly reduced relaxations produced by Angeli's salt (0.3 μM) in aortic rings but not in anococcygeus muscles. NO• generated from Angeli's salt (0.1 – 10 μM), as detected by the sensor electrode, was less than 0.5% of the amount of Angeli's salt added. Carboxy-PTIO (100 μM) and hydroxocobalamin (30 μM), but not pyrogallol significantly increased the amount of NO• detected. In the presence of an oxidizing agent copper [II] (as CuSO4 100 μM), the amount of NO• detected from 0.3 μM of Angeli's salt increased from an undetectable level of 142.7±15.7 nM (equivalent to 47.6% of Angeli's salt added). Under these conditions, carboxy-PTIO, hydroxocobalamin and pyrogallol significantly reduced the amount of NO• detected from Angeli's salt as well as the signal generated by an equivalent amount of authentic NO (0.33 μM). The difference in effects of these agents on relaxations to Angeli's salt in the aorta and the anococcygeus muscle may be explained by the ready conversion of NO− to NO• in the aorta through an unidentified mechanism, which makes NO− susceptible to inactivation by these agents. Furthermore, in addition to inactivating NO•, carboxy-PTIO and hydroxocobalamin may themselves oxidize NO− to NO•, albeit slightly. PMID:11588105

Central cardiovascular and behavioral effects of carboxy- and amino-terminal fragments of substance P in conscious rats.

PubMed

Tschöpe, C; Jost, N; Unger, T; Culman, J

1995-08-28

The central cardiovascular and behavioral effects of carboxy- (SP 5-11, SP 6-11, SP 7-11, SP 8-11) and amino- (SP 1-7, SP 1-9) terminal substance P (SP) fragments were compared with those of SP 1-11 in conscious rats. In addition, the ability of these SP-fragments to induce desensitization of the central NK1 receptor was investigated. SP 1-11 (50 pmol) injected i.c.v. induced an increase in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR) and a typical behavioral response consisting of face washing (FW), hindquarter grooming (HQG) and wet-dog shakes (WDS). The cardiovascular and behavioral responses to equimolar doses of SP 5-11 and SP 6-11 were similar to those of SP 1-11, however, only SP 5-11 induced exactly the same behavioral pattern as SP 1-11. SP 6-11 was more potent in inducing FW and WDS than SP 1-11 or SP 5-11. The carboxy-terminal SP-fragments, SP 7-11 and SP 8-11, and the amino-terminal SP-fragments, SP 1-7, SP 1-9, did not elicit any significant cardiovascular or behavioral responses. Pretreatment with SP 1-11 reduced the cardiovascular and behavioral responses to subsequent injections of SP 1-11. Of all SP-fragments tested, only SP 5-11 was able to attenuate the cardiovascular and behavioral responses to SP 1-11. Our results demonstrate that SP 6-11 represents the shortest carboxy-terminal amino acid sequence, that after i.c.v. injection, elicits the same cardiovascular response as SP 1-11, but fails to desensitize the NK1 receptor. The carboxy-terminal fragment, SP 5-11, is the shortest amino acid sequence which produces the same pattern of central cardiovascular and behavioral responses as SP 1-11 and also retains the ability to desensitize the NK1 receptor like SP 1-11.

Harmane and harmalan are bioactive components of classical clonidine-displacing substance.

PubMed

Parker, Christine A; Anderson, Neil J; Robinson, Emma S J; Price, Rhiannon; Tyacke, Robin J; Husbands, Stephen M; Dillon, Michael P; Eglen, Richard M; Hudson, Alan L; Nutt, David J; Crump, Matthew P; Crosby, John

2004-12-28

Elucidation of the structure of the endogenous ligand(s) for imidazoline binding sites, clonidine-displacing substance (CDS), has been a major goal for many years. Crude CDS from bovine lung was purified by reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography. Electrospray mass spectrometry (ESMS) and nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H NMR) analysis revealed the presence of L-tryptophan and 1-carboxy-1-methyltetrahydro-beta-carboline in the active CDS extract. Competition radioligand binding studies, however, failed to show displacement of specific [(3)H]clonidine binding to rat brain membranes for either compound. Further purification of the bovine lung extract allowed the isolation of the beta-carbolines harmane and harmalan as confirmed by ESMS, (1)H NMR, and comparison with synthetic standards. Both compounds exhibited a high (nanomolar) affinity for both type 1 and type 2 imidazoline binding sites, and the synthetic standards were shown to coelute with the active classical CDS extracts. We therefore propose that the beta-carbolines harmane and harmalan represent active components of classical CDS. The identification of these compounds will allow us to establish clear physiological roles for CDS.

Structures of the human Pals1 PDZ domain with and without ligand suggest gated access of Crb to the PDZ peptide-binding groove

PubMed Central

Ivanova, Marina E.; Fletcher, Georgina C.; O’Reilly, Nicola; Purkiss, Andrew G.; Thompson, Barry J.; McDonald, Neil Q.

2015-01-01

Many components of epithelial polarity protein complexes possess PDZ domains that are required for protein interaction and recruitment to the apical plasma membrane. Apical localization of the Crumbs (Crb) transmembrane protein requires a PDZ-mediated interaction with Pals1 (protein-associated with Lin7, Stardust, MPP5), a member of the p55 family of membrane-associated guanylate kinases (MAGUKs). This study describes the molecular interaction between the Crb carboxy-terminal motif (ERLI), which is required for Drosophila cell polarity, and the Pals1 PDZ domain using crystallography and fluorescence polarization. Only the last four Crb residues contribute to Pals1 PDZ-domain binding affinity, with specificity contributed by conserved charged interactions. Comparison of the Crb-bound Pals1 PDZ structure with an apo Pals1 structure reveals a key Phe side chain that gates access to the PDZ peptide-binding groove. Removal of this side chain enhances the binding affinity by more than fivefold, suggesting that access of Crb to Pals1 may be regulated by intradomain contacts or by protein–protein interaction. PMID:25760605

Phosphorylation of tyrosine 720 in the platelet-derived growth factor alpha receptor is required for binding of Grb2 and SHP-2 but not for activation of Ras or cell proliferation.

PubMed Central

Bazenet, C E; Gelderloos, J A; Kazlauskas, A

1996-01-01

Following binding of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), the PDGF alpha receptor (alphaPDGFR) becomes tyrosine phosphorylated and associates with a number of signal transduction molecules, including phospholipase Cgamma-1 (PLCgamma-1), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), the phosphotyrosine phosphatase SHP-2, Grb2, and Src. Here, we present data identifying a novel phosphorylation site in the kinase insert domain of the alphaPDGFR at tyrosine (Y) 720. We replaced this residue with phenylalanine and expressed the mutated receptor (F720) in Patch fibroblasts that do not express the alphaPDGFR. Characterization of the F720 mutant indicated that binding of two proteins, SHP-2 and Grb2, was severely impaired, whereas PLCgamma-1 and PI3K associated to wild-type levels. In addition, mutating Y720 to phenylalanine dramatically reduced PDGF-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of SHP-2. Since Y720 was required for recruitment of two proteins, we investigated the mechanism by which these two proteins associated with the alphaPDGFR. SHP-2 bound the alphaPDGFR directly, whereas Grb2 associated indirectly, most probably via SHP-2, as Grb2 and SHP-2 coimmunoprecipitated when SHP-2 was tyrosine phosphorylated. We also compared the ability of the wild-type and F720 alphaPDGFRs to mediate a number of downstream events. Preventing the alphaPDGFR from recruiting SHP-2 and Grb2 did not compromise PDGF-AA-induced activation of Ras, initiation of DNA synthesis, or growth of cells in soft agar. We conclude that phosphorylation of the alphaPDGFR at Y720 is required for association of SHP-2 and Grb2 and tyrosine phosphorylation of SHP-2; however, these events are not required for the alphaPDGFR to activate Ras or initiate a proliferative response. In addition, these findings reveal that while SHP-2 binds to both of the receptors, it binds in different locations: to the carboxy terminus of the betaPDGFR but to the kinase insert of the alphaPDGFR. PMID:8943348

The amino-terminal region of the retinoblastoma gene product binds a novel nuclear matrix protein that co-localizes to centers for RNA processing

PubMed Central

1994-01-01

The tumor suppressing capacity of the retinoblastoma protein (p110RB) is dependent on interactions made with cellular proteins through its carboxy-terminal domains. How the p110RB amino-terminal region contributes to this activity is unclear, though evidence now indicates it is important for both growth suppression and regulation of the full- length protein. We have used the yeast two-hybrid system to screen for cellular proteins which bind to the first 300 amino acids of p110RB. The only gene isolated from this screen encodes a novel 84-kD nuclear matrix protein that localizes to subnuclear regions associated with RNA processing. This protein, p84, requires a structurally defined domain in the amino terminus of p110RB for binding. Furthermore, both in vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrate that p84 binds preferentially to the functionally active, hypophosphorylated form of p110RB. Thus, the amino terminus of p110RB may function in part to facilitate the binding of growth promoting factors at subnuclear regions actively involved in RNA metabolism. PMID:7525595

Architecture of the RNA polymerase II-Mediator core initiation complex.

PubMed

Plaschka, C; Larivière, L; Wenzeck, L; Seizl, M; Hemann, M; Tegunov, D; Petrotchenko, E V; Borchers, C H; Baumeister, W; Herzog, F; Villa, E; Cramer, P

2015-02-19

The conserved co-activator complex Mediator enables regulated transcription initiation by RNA polymerase (Pol) II. Here we reconstitute an active 15-subunit core Mediator (cMed) comprising all essential Mediator subunits from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The cryo-electron microscopic structure of cMed bound to a core initiation complex was determined at 9.7 Å resolution. cMed binds Pol II around the Rpb4-Rpb7 stalk near the carboxy-terminal domain (CTD). The Mediator head module binds the Pol II dock and the TFIIB ribbon and stabilizes the initiation complex. The Mediator middle module extends to the Pol II foot with a 'plank' that may influence polymerase conformation. The Mediator subunit Med14 forms a 'beam' between the head and middle modules and connects to the tail module that is predicted to bind transcription activators located on upstream DNA. The Mediator 'arm' and 'hook' domains contribute to a 'cradle' that may position the CTD and TFIIH kinase to stimulate Pol II phosphorylation.

Toughening reinforced epoxy composites with brominated polymeric additives

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nir, Z. (Inventor); Gilwee, W. J., Jr. (Inventor)

1985-01-01

Cured polyfunctional epoxy resins including tris(hydroxyphenyl)methane triglycidyl ether are toughened by addition of polybrominated polymeric additives having an EE below 1500 to the pre-cure composition. Carboxy-terminated butadiene-acrylonitrile rubber is optionally present in the pre-cure mixture as such or as a pre-formed copolymer with other reactants. Reinforced composites, particularly carbon-reinforced composites, of these resins are disclosed and shown to have improved toughness.

Toughening reinforced epoxy composites with brominated polymeric additives

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nir, Z.; Gilwee, W. J., Jr. (Inventor)

1985-01-01

Cured polyfunctional epoxy resins including tris (hydroxyphenyl) methane triglycidyl ether are toughened by addition of polybrominated polymeric additives having an EE below 1500 to the pre-cure composition. Carboxy terminated butadiene acrylonitrile rubber is optionally present in the precure mixture as such or as a pre-formed copolymer with other reactants. Reinforced composites, particularly carbon reinforced composites, of these resins are disclosed and shown to have improved toughness.

Interaction of Clostridium perfringens delta toxin with erythrocyte and liposome membranes and relation with the specific binding to the ganglioside GM2.

PubMed

Jolivet-Reynaud, C; Hauttecoeur, B; Alouf, J E

1989-01-01

The specific interaction of the cytolytic Clostridium perfringens delta toxin with membrane GM2 was indicated by: (i) characterization of this glycolipid in the membrane of sheep and goat erythrocytes, which are lysed by the toxin, whereas GM2 was undetectable in insensitive rabbit erythrocytes, (ii) demonstration of 125I-toxin binding to GM2, by autoradiography, following incubation with thin-layer chromatograms containing separated neuroblastoma gangliosides, and (iii) toxin fixation by phospholipid-cholesterol unilamellar vesicles containing either sheep gangliosides or GM2. In order to investigate the intramembrane events leading to membrane disruption following toxin binding, the photoreactive probe 12(4-azido-2-nitrophenoxy)stearoyl 1-14C glucosamine, which inserts into the outer layer and labels integral membrane proteins, was used to establish whether delta toxin penetrates into target cell membrane. No toxin labeling was found, suggesting that toxin action takes place at the membrane surface. This contention is supported by the observation that despite toxin binding, GM2 liposomes did not release entrapped 14C-glucose. Treatment of toxin with carboxypeptidases, but not aminopeptidases, abolished both toxin binding capacity onto erythrocytes and its combination with antitoxin neutralizing antibodies, suggesting that the carboxy terminal end of the toxin is critical for binding to cell membrane.

Inhibited solid propellant composition containing beryllium hydride

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thompson, W. W. (Inventor)

1978-01-01

An object of this invention is to provide a composition of beryllium hydride and carboxy-terminated polybutadiene which is stable. Another object of this invention is to provide a method for inhibiting the reactivity of beryllium hydride toward carboxy-terminated polybutadiene. It was found that a small amount of lecithin inhibits the reaction of beryllium hydride with the acid groups in carboxy terminated polybutadiene.

Macromolecules for Inhibition of Corrosion and Wear

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-12-14

phthalocyanine TCAUPC tetrakis-(N-carboxy-12-aminoundecanoic acid ) phthalocyanine TCACPC tetrakis-(N-carboxy-6- aminocaproic acid ) phthalocyanine Table 2... acid ); (TCACPC] - tetrakis(N- carboxy-6- aminocaproic acid ). •* Containing p-hydroxy pyridine groups in the voids. 9 NAWCADWAR-92112-60 protection...fluids .......... ................................ 10 8 PFPE degradation in the presence of FeF 3 Lewis Acid ..... 11 9 The degradation mechanism for PFPE

Mutation of Hip’s Carboxy-Terminal Region Inhibits a Transitional Stage of Progesterone Receptor Assembly

PubMed Central

Prapapanich, Viravan; Chen, Shiying; Smith, David F.

1998-01-01

Steroid receptor complexes are assembled through an ordered, multistep pathway involving multiple components of the cytoplasmic chaperone machinery. Two of these components are Hsp70-binding proteins, Hip and Hop, that have some limited homology in their C-terminal regions, outside the sequences mapped for Hsp70 binding. Within this region of Hip is a DPEV sequence that occurs twice; in Hop, one DPEV sequence plus a partial second sequence occurs. In an effort to better understand Hip function as it relates to assembly of progesterone receptor complexes, the DPEV region of Hip was targeted for mutations. Each DPEV sequence was mutated to an APAV sequence, singly or in combination. The combined mutation, APAV2, was further combined with a deletion of Hip’s tetratricopeptide repeat region that is required for Hsp70 binding or with a deletion of Hip’s GGMP repeat. An additional mutant was prepared by truncation of Hip’s DPEV-containing C terminus. By comparing interactions of various Hip forms with Hsp70, it was determined that mutation of the DPEV sequences created a dominant inhibitory form of Hip. The mutant Hip-Hsp70 complex was not prevented from interacting with progesterone receptor, but the mutant caused a dose-dependent inhibition of receptor assembly with Hsp90. The behavior of the Hip mutant is consistent with a model in which Hip and Hop are required to facilitate the transition from an early receptor complex with Hsp70 into later complexes containing Hsp90. PMID:9447991

Topological dispositions of lysine. alpha. 380 and lysine. gamma. 486 in the acetylcholine receptor from Torpedo californica

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dwyer, B.P.

1991-04-23

The locations have been determined, with respect to the plasma membrane, of lysine {alpha}380 and lysine {gamma}486 in the {alpha} subunit and the {gamma} subunit, respectively, of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor from Torpedo californica. Immunoadsorbents were constructed that recognize the carboxy terminus of the peptide GVKYIAE released by proteolytic digestion from positions 378-384 in the amino acid sequence of the {alpha} subunit of the acetylcholine receptor and the carboxy terminus of the peptide KYVP released by proteolytic digestion from positions 486-489 in the amino acid sequence of the {gamma} subunit. They were used to isolate these peptides from proteolytic digestsmore » of polypeptides from the acetylcholine receptor. Sealed vesicles containing the native acetylcholine receptor were labeled with pyridoxal phosphate and sodium ({sup 3}H)-borohydride. The effect of saponin on the incorporation of pyridoxamine phosphate into lysine {alpha}380 and lysine {gamma}486 from the acetylcholine receptor in these vesicles was assessed with the immunoadsorbents. The conclusions that follow from these results are that lysine {alpha}380 is on the inside surface of a vesicle and lysine {gamma}486 is on the outside surface. Because a majority (85%) of the total binding sites for {alpha}-bungarotoxin bind the toxin in the absence of saponin, the majority of the vesicles are right side out with the inside of the vesicle corresponding to the cytoplasmic surface and the outside of the vesicle corresponding to the extracytoplasmic, synaptic surface. Because lysine {alpha}380 and lysine {gamma}486 lie on opposite sides of the membrane, a membrane-spanning segment must be located between the two positions occupied by these two amino acids in the common sequence of a polypeptide of the acetylcholine receptor.« less

Dynamic features of carboxy cytoglobin distal mutants investigated by molecular dynamics simulations.

PubMed

Zhao, Cong; Du, Weihong

2016-04-01

Cytoglobin (Cgb) is a member of hemoprotein family with roles in NO metabolism, fibrosis, and tumourigenesis. Similar to other hemoproteins, Cgb structure and functions are markedly influenced by distal key residues. The sixth ligand His(81) (E7) is crucial to exogenous ligand binding, heme pocket conformation, and physiological roles of this protein. However, the effects of other key residues on heme pocket and protein biological functions are not well known. In this work, a molecular dynamics (MD) simulation study of two single mutants in CO-ligated Cgb (L46FCgbCO and L46VCgbCO) and two double mutants (L46FH81QCgbCO and L46VH81QCgbCO) was conducted to explore the effects of the key distal residues Leu(46)(B10) and His(81)(E7) on Cgb structure and functions. Results indicated that the distal mutation of B10 and E7 affected CgbCO dynamic properties on loop region fluctuation, internal cavity rearrangement, and heme motion. The distal conformation change was reflected by the distal key residues Gln(62) (CD3) and Arg(84)(E10). The hydrogen bond between heme propionates with CD3 or E10 residues were evidently influenced by B10/E7 mutation. Furthermore, heme pocket rearrangement was also observed based on the distal pocket volume and occurrence rate of inner cavities. The mutual effects of B10 and E7 residues on protein conformational rearrangement and other dynamic features were expressed in current MD studies of CgbCO and its distal mutants, suggesting their crucial role in heme pocket stabilization, ligand binding, and Cgb biological functions. The mutation of distal B10 and E7 residues affects the dynamic features of carboxy cytoglobin.

SAP97 Controls the Trafficking and Resensitization of the Beta-1-Adrenergic Receptor through Its PDZ2 and I3 Domains

PubMed Central

Nooh, Mohammed M.; Naren, Anjaparavanda P.; Kim, Sung-Jin; Xiang, Yang K.; Bahouth, Suleiman W.

2013-01-01

Previous studies have determined that the type-1 PDZ sequence at the extreme carboxy-terminus of the ß1-adrenergic receptor (ß1-AR) binds SAP97 and AKAP79 to organize a scaffold involved in trafficking of the ß1-AR. In this study we focused on characterizing the domains in SAP97 that were involved in recycling and resensitization of the ß1-AR in HEK-293 cells. Using a SAP97 knockdown and rescue strategy, we determined that PDZ-deletion mutants of SAP97 containing PDZ2 rescued the recycling and resensitization of the ß1-AR. Among the three PDZs of SAP97, PDZ2 displayed the highest affinity in binding to the ß1-AR. Expression of isolated PDZ2, but not the other PDZs, inhibited the recycling of the ß1-AR by destabilizing the macromolecular complex involved in trafficking and functional resensitization of the ß1-AR. In addition to its PDZs, SAP97 contains other protein interacting domains, such as the I3 sequence in the SRC homology-3 (SH3) domain, which binds to AKAP79. Deletion of I3 from SAP97 (ΔI3-SAP97) did not affect the binding of SAP97 to the ß1-AR. However, ΔI3-SAP97 could not rescue the recycling of the ß1-AR because it failed to incorporate AKAP79/PKA into the SAP97-ß1-AR complex. Therefore, bipartite binding of SAP97 to the ß1-AR and to AKAP79 is necessary for SAP97-mediated effects on recycling, externalization and functional resensitization of the ß1-AR. These data establish a prominent role for PDZ2 and I3 domains of SAP97 in organizing the ß1-adrenergic receptosome involved in connecting the ß1-AR to trafficking and signaling networks. PMID:23696820

Purification of FKBP-70, a novel immunophilin from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and cloning of its structural gene, FPR3.

PubMed

Manning-Krieg, U C; Henríquez, R; Cammas, F; Graff, P; Gavériaux, S; Movva, N R

1994-09-19

A novel protein, belonging to the yeast family of FKBPs (FK-binding proteins), FKBP-70, was isolated from Saccharomyces cerevisiae by its interaction with the immunosuppressive agent FK-520. Its structural gene, FPR3, was cloned and the protein expressed and purified from Escherichia coli. This third member of the FKBP family in yeast is homologous to the other FKBPs at its carboxy terminus, showing conserved ligand binding and proline isomerase regions. It is, however, a longer acidic protein with several potential nuclear targeting sequences and a region of homology to nucleolins. Yeast strains deleted for FPR3, as well as a triple deletion mutant of this family of genes, FPR1, FPR2 and FPR3, are viable under normal conditions of growth, indicating that the FPR genes are not essential for life.

A conserved Mediator–CDK8 kinase module association regulates Mediator–RNA polymerase II interaction

PubMed Central

Tsai, Kuang-Lei; Sato, Shigeo; Tomomori-Sato, Chieri; Conaway, Ronald C.; Conaway, Joan W.; Asturias, Francisco J.

2013-01-01

The CDK8 kinase module (CKM) is a conserved, dissociable Mediator subcomplex whose component subunits were genetically linked to the RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) carboxy-terminal domain (CTD) and individually recognized as transcriptional repressors before Mediator was identified as a preeminent complex in eukaryotic transcription regulation. We used macromolecular electron microscopy and biochemistry to investigate the subunit organization, structure, and Mediator interaction of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae CKM. We found that interaction of the CKM with Mediator’s Middle module interferes with CTD-dependent RNAPII binding to a previously unknown Middle module CTD-binding site targeted early on in a multi-step holoenzyme formation process. Taken together, our results reveal the basis for CKM repression, clarify the origin of the connection between CKM subunits and the CTD, and suggest that a combination of competitive interactions and conformational changes that facilitate holoenzyme formation underlie the Mediator mechanism. PMID:23563140

Cloning, expression and functional characterization of Schizosaccharomyces pombe TFIIB.

PubMed

Tamayo, Evelyn; Maldonado, Edio

2002-09-27

The transcription factor TFIIB has been identified and cloned from the yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. The cloned polypeptide is highly homologous to human TFIIB and to Saccharomyces cerevisiae TFIIB. S. pombe TFIIB is a 340-amino-acid-long protein and it possesses a repeated motif of 75 amino acids near the carboxy-terminal region. The purified recombinant protein is able to bind to the TBP-DNA promoter complex in gel retardation experiments. Recombinant S. pombe TFIIB is active in in vitro transcription assays, since it can complement the transcription activity of a S. pombe cell extract in which TFIIB was depleted by using antibodies.

Small Changes in the Primary Structure of Transportan 10 Alter the Thermodynamics and Kinetics of its Interaction with Phospholipid Vesicles

PubMed Central

2008-01-01

The kinetics and thermodynamics of binding of transportan 10 (tp10) and four of its variants to phospholipid vesicles, and the kinetics of peptide-induced dye efflux, were compared. Tp10 is a 21-residue, amphipathic, cationic, cell-penetrating peptide similar to helical antimicrobial peptides. The tp10 variants examined include amidated and free peptides, and replacements of tyrosine by tryptophan. Carboxy-terminal amidation or substitution of tryptophan for tyrosine enhance binding and activity. The Gibbs energies of peptide binding to membranes determined experimentally and calculated from the interfacial hydrophobicity scale are in good agreement. The Gibbs energy for insertion into the bilayer core was calculated using hydrophobicity scales of residue transfer from water to octanol and to the membrane/water interface. Peptide-induced efflux becomes faster as the Gibbs energies for binding and insertion of the tp10 variants decrease. If anionic lipids are included, binding and efflux rate increase, as expected because all tp10 variants are cationic and an electrostatic component is added. Whether the most important effect of peptide amidation is the change in charge or an enhancement of helical structure, however, still needs to be established. Nevertheless, it is clear that the changes in efflux rate reflect the differences in the thermodynamics of binding and insertion of the free and amidated peptide groups. PMID:18260641

Phosphorylation and nuclear localization of the varicella-zoster virus gene 63 protein.

PubMed Central

Stevenson, D; Xue, M; Hay, J; Ruyechan, W T

1996-01-01

The protein encoded by varicella-zoster virus open reading frame 63 and carboxy-terminal deletions of the same were expressed either as fusion proteins at the carboxy terminus of the maltose-binding protein in Escherichia coli or independently in transfected mammalian cells. The truncations contained amino acids 1 to 142 (63 delta N) or 1 to 210 (63 delta K) of the complete 278-amino-acid primary sequence. Recombinant casein kinase II phosphorylated the 63F and 63 delta KF fusion proteins in vitro but did not phosphorylate the 63 delta NF fusion protein, implying that phosphorylation occurred between amino acids 142 and 210. Immunoprecipitation of 35S- or 32P-labelled extracts of cells transfected with plasmids expressing 63, 63 delta N, or 63 delta K also indicated that in situ phosphorylation most likely occurred between amino acids 142 and 210. These combined results suggest that casein kinase II plays a significant role in the phosphorylation of the varicella-zoster virus 63 protein. Indirect immunofluorescence of transfected cells indicated nuclear localization of the 63 protein and cytoplasmic localization of 63 delta K and 63 delta N, implying a requirement for sequences between amino acids 210 and 278 for efficient nuclear localization. PMID:8523589

Specific lysine labeling by 18OH- during alkaline cleavage of the alpha-1-antitrypsin-trypsin complex.

PubMed Central

Cohen, A B; Gruenke, L D; Craig, J C; Geczy, D

1977-01-01

alpha-1-Antitrypsin is a serum protein that inhibits many proteolytic enzymes. Recently, it was suggested that the alpha-1-antitrypsin-trypsin complex is an acyl ester analogous to the acyl intermediate that forms between trypsin and its substrates. In previous work we showed that the alpha-1-antitrypsin-trypsin complex can be split at high pH, releasing a component of alpha-1-antitrypsin. This component had a new carboxyl-terminal lysine, and it had lost a peptide of about 4000 daltons. In order to determine whether the alpha-1-antitrypsin is bound to trypsin through the new carboxy-terminal lysine, as would be expected if the above hypothesis is correct, we split the complex in the presence of 18OH-. When the new carboxy-terminal lysine was cleaved with carboxypeptidase B, singly labeled, doubly labeled, and unlabeled lysine were recovered. These data support the hypothesis that the alpha-1-antitrypsin-trypsin complex is an acyl ester or a tetrahedral precursor that is transformed into the acyl ester form at high pH. If other enzymes are bound by a similar mechanism, the methods used may be useful in determining which amino acids on alpha-1-antitrypsin bind covalently to each enzyme. PMID:303770

Preclinical characterization of therapeutic antibodies targeted at the carboxy-terminus of Sonic hedgehog

PubMed Central

Tolani, Bhairavi; Hoang, Ngoc T.; Acevedo, Luis A.; Leprieur, Etienne Giroux; Li, Hui; He, Biao; Jablons, David M.

2018-01-01

The Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway has been implicated in the development and tumor progression of a number of human cancers. Using synthetic peptide mimics to mount an immune response, we generated a mouse mAb to the carboxy (C)-terminus of the Shh protein and characterized its preclinical antitumor effects. In vitro screening guided selection of the best candidate for mAb scale-up production and therapeutic development. C-term anti-Shh, Ab 1C11-2G4 was selected based on ELISA screens, Western blotting, and flow cytometric analyses. Purified Ab 1C11-2G4 was shown to recognize and bind both Shh peptide mimics and cell surface Shh. Administration of Ab 1C11-2G4 not only reduced cell viability in 7 cancer cell lines but also significantly inhibitted tumor growth in a xenograft model of A549 lung cancer cells. Ex vivo analyses of xenograft tumors revealed a reduction in Shh signal transduction and apoptosis in 2G4-treated mice. Collectively, our results provide early demonstration of the antitumor utility of antibodies specific for the C-terminal region of Shh, and support continued development to evaluate their potential efficacy in cancers in which Shh activity is elevated. PMID:29581846

Structural interpretation of P2X receptor mutagenesis studies on drug action

PubMed Central

Evans, Richard J

2010-01-01

P2X receptors for ATP are ligand gated cation channels that form from the trimeric assembly of subunits with two transmembrane segments, a large extracellular ligand binding loop, and intracellular amino and carboxy termini. The receptors are expressed throughout the body, involved in functions ranging from blood clotting to inflammation, and may provide important targets for novel therapeutics. Mutagenesis based studies have been used to develop an understanding of the molecular basis of their pharmacology with the aim of developing models of the ligand binding site. A crystal structure for the zebra fish P2X4 receptor in the closed agonist unbound state has been published recently, which provides a major advance in our understanding of the receptors. This review gives an overview of mutagenesis studies that have led to the development of a model of the ATP binding site, as well as identifying residues contributing to allosteric regulation and antagonism. These studies are discussed with reference to the crystal to provide a structural interpretation of the molecular basis of drug action. PMID:20977449

An Unusual Role for a Mobile Flavin in StaC-like Indolocarbazole Biosynthetic Enzymes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Goldman, Peter J.; Ryan, Katherine S.; Hamill, Michael J.

2012-10-09

The indolocarbazole biosynthetic enzymes StaC, InkE, RebC, and AtmC mediate the degree of oxidation of chromopyrrolic acid on route to the natural products staurosporine, K252a, rebeccamycin, and AT2433-A1, respectively. Here, we show that StaC and InkE, which mediate a net 4-electron oxidation, bind FAD with a micromolar K{sub d}, whereas RebC and AtmC, which mediate a net 8-electron oxidation, bind FAD with a nanomolar K{sub d} while displaying the same FAD redox properties. We further create RebC-10x, a RebC protein with ten StaC-like amino acid substitutions outside of previously characterized FAD-binding motifs and the complementary StaC-10x. We find that thesemore » mutations mediate both FAD affinity and product specificity, with RebC-10x displaying higher StaC activity than StaC itself. X-ray structures of this StaC catalyst identify the substrate of StaC as 7-carboxy-K252c and suggest a unique mechanism for this FAD-dependent enzyme.« less

Ceruloplasmin (ferroxidase) oxidizes hydroxylamine probes: deceptive implications for free radical detection.

PubMed

Ganini, Douglas; Canistro, Donatella; Jiang, JinJie; Jang, JinJie; Stadler, Krisztian; Mason, Ronald P; Kadiiska, Maria B

2012-10-01

Ceruloplasmin (ferroxidase) is a copper-binding protein known to promote Fe(2+) oxidation in plasma of mammals. In addition to its classical ferroxidase activity, ceruloplasmin is known to catalyze the oxidation of various substrates, such as amines and catechols. Assays based on cyclic hydroxylamine oxidation are used to quantify and detect free radicals in biological samples ex vivo and in vitro. We show here that human ceruloplasmin promotes the oxidation of the cyclic hydroxylamine 1-hydroxy-3-carboxy-2,2,5,5-tetramethylpyrrolidine hydrochloride (CPH) and related probes in Chelex-treated phosphate buffer and rat serum. The reaction is suppressed by the metal chelators DTPA, EDTA, and desferal, whereas heparin and bathocuproine have no effect. Catalase or superoxide dismutase additions do not interfere with the CPH-oxidation yield, demonstrating that oxygen-derived free radicals are not involved in the CPH oxidation mediated by ceruloplasmin. Plasma samples immunodepleted of ceruloplasmin have lower levels of CPH oxidation, which confirms the role of ceruloplasmin (ferroxidase) as a biological oxidizing agent of cyclic hydroxylamines. In conclusion, we show that the ferroxidase activity of ceruloplasmin is a possible biological source of artifacts in the cyclic hydroxylamine-oxidation assay used for reactive oxygen species detection and quantification. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Modulating the DNA affinity of Elk-1 with computationally selected mutations.

PubMed

Park, Sheldon; Boder, Eric T; Saven, Jeffery G

2005-04-22

In order to regulate gene expression, transcription factors must first bind their target DNA sequences. The affinity of this binding is determined by both the network of interactions at the interface and the entropy change associated with the complex formation. To study the role of structural fluctuation in fine-tuning DNA affinity, we performed molecular dynamics simulations of two highly homologous proteins, Elk-1 and SAP-1, that exhibit different sequence specificity. Simulation studies show that several residues in Elk have significantly higher main-chain root-mean-square deviations than their counterparts in SAP. In particular, a single residue, D69, may contribute to Elk's lower DNA affinity for P(c-fos) by structurally destabilizing the carboxy terminus of the recognition helix. While D69 does not contact DNA directly, the increased mobility in the region may contribute to its weaker binding. We measured the ability of single point mutants of Elk to bind P(c-fos) in a reporter assay, in which D69 of wild-type Elk has been mutated to other residues with higher helix propensity in order to stabilize the local conformation. The gains in transcriptional activity and the free energy of binding suggested from these measurements correlate well with stability gains computed from helix propensity and charge-macrodipole interactions. The study suggests that residues that are distal to the binding interface may indirectly modulate the binding affinity by stabilizing the protein scaffold required for efficient DNA interaction.

Biosynthetic Origin of Hygromycin A

PubMed Central

Habib, El-Sayed E.; Scarsdale, J. Neel; Reynolds, Kevin A.

2003-01-01

Hygromycin A, an antibiotic produced by Streptomyces hygroscopicus, is an inhibitor of bacterial ribosomal peptidyl transferase. The antibiotic binds to the ribosome in a distinct but overlapping manner with other antibiotics and offers a different template for generation of new agents effective against multidrug-resistant pathogens. Reported herein are the results from a series of stable-isotope-incorporation studies demonstrating the biosynthetic origins of the three distinct structural moieties which comprise hygromycin A. Incorporation of [1-13C]mannose and intact incorporation of d-[1,2-13C2]glucose into the 6-deoxy-5-keto-d-arabino-hexofuranose moiety are consistent with a pathway in which mannose is converted to an activated l-fucose, via a 4-keto-6-deoxy-d-mannose intermediate, with a subsequent unusual mutation of the pyranose to the corresponding furanose. The aminocyclitol moiety was labeled by d-[1,2-13C2]glucose in a manner consistent with formation of myo-inositol and a subsequent unprecedented oxidation and transamination of the C-2 hydroxyl group to generate neo-inosamine-2. Incorporation of [carboxy-13C]-4-hydroxybenzoic acid and intact incorporation of [2,3-13C2]propionate are consistent with a polyketide synthase-type decarboxylation condensation to generate the 3,4-dihydroxy-α-methylcinnamic acid moiety of hygromycin A. No labeling of hygromycin A was observed when [3-13C]tyrosine, [3-13C]phenylalanine, or [carboxy-13C]benzoic acid was used, suggesting that the 4-hydroxybenzoic acid is derived directly from chorismic acid. Consistent with this hypothesis was the observation that hygromycin A titers could be reduced by addition of N-(phosphonomethyl)-glycine (an inhibitor of chorismic acid biosynthesis) and restored by coaddition of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid. The convergent biosynthetic pathway established for hygromycin A offers significant versatility for applying the techniques of combinatorial and directed biosynthesis to production of new antibiotics which target the ribosomal peptidyl transferase activity. PMID:12821448

Gβγ subunit activation promotes dopamine efflux through the dopamine transporter

PubMed Central

Garcia-Olivares, J; Baust, T; Harris, S; Hamilton, P; Galli, A; Amara, SG; Torres, GE

2018-01-01

The dopamine transporter (DAT) is an important regulator of brain dopamine (DA) homeostasis, controlling the intensity and duration of DA signaling. DAT is the target for psychostimulants—like cocaine and amphetamine—and plays an important role in neuropsychiatric disorders, including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and drug addiction. Thus, a thorough understanding of the mechanisms that regulate DAT function is necessary for the development of clinical interventions to treat DA-related brain disorders. Previous studies have revealed a plethora of protein–protein interactions influencing DAT cellular localization and activity, suggesting that the fine-tuning of DA homeostasis involves multiple mechanisms. We recently reported that G-protein beta-gamma (Gβγ) subunits bind directly to DAT and decrease DA clearance. Here we show that Gβγ induces the release of DA through DAT. Specifically, a Gβγ-binding/activating peptide, mSIRK, increases DA efflux through DAT in heterologous cells and primary dopaminergic neurons in culture. Addition of the Gβγ inhibitor gallein or DAT inhibitors prevents this effect. Residues 582 to 596 in the DAT carboxy terminus were identified as the primary binding site of Gβγ. A TAT peptide containing the Gβγ-interacting domain of DAT blocked the ability of mSIRK to induce DA efflux, consistent with a direct interaction of Gβγ with the transporter. Finally, activation of a G-protein-coupled receptor, the muscarinic M5R, results in DAT-mediated DA efflux through a Gβγ-dependent mechanism. Collectively, our data show that Gβγ interacts with DAT to promote DA efflux. This novel mechanism may have important implications in the regulation of brain DA homeostasis. PMID:28894302

Identification of functional domains within the alpha and beta subunits of beta-hexosaminidase A through the expression of alpha-beta fusion proteins.

PubMed

Tse, R; Wu, Y J; Vavougios, G; Hou, Y; Hinek, A; Mahuran, D J

1996-08-20

There are three human beta-hexosaminidase isozymes which are composed of all possible dimeric combinations of an alpha and/or a beta subunit; A (alpha beta), and B (beta beta), and S (alpha alpha). The amino acid sequences of the two subunits are 60% identical. The homology between the two chains varies with the middle > the carboxy-terminal > > the amino-terminal portions. Although dimerization is required for activity, each subunit contains its own active site and differs in its substrate specificity and thermal stability. The presence of the beta subunit in hexosaminidase A also influences the substrate specificity of the alpha subunit; e.g., in vivo only the A heterodimer can hydrolyze GM2 ganglioside. In this report, we localize functional regions in the two subunits by cellular expression of alpha/beta fusion proteins joined at adjacently aligned residues. First, a chimeric alpha/beta chain was made by replacing the least well-conserved amino-terminal section of the beta chain with the corresponding alpha section. The biochemical characteristics of this protein were nearly identical to hexosaminidase B. Therefore, the most dissimilar regions in the subunits are not responsible for their dissimilar biochemical properties. A second fusion protein was made that also included the more homologous middle section of the alpha chain. This protein expressed the substrate specificity unique to isozymes containing an alpha subunit (A and S). We conclude that the region responsible for the ability of the alpha subunit to bind negatively charged substrates is located within residues alpha 132-283. Interestingly, the remaining carboxy-terminal section from the beta chain, beta 316-556, was sufficient to allow this chimera to hydrolyze GM2 ganglioside with 10% the specific activity of heterodimeric hexosaminidase A. Thus, the carboxy-terminal section of each subunit is likely involved in subunit-subunit interactions.

Negatively-charged residues in the polar carboxy-terminal region in FSP27 are indispensable for expanding lipid droplets.

PubMed

Tamori, Yoshikazu; Tateya, Sanshiro; Ijuin, Takeshi; Nishimoto, Yuki; Nakajima, Shinsuke; Ogawa, Wataru

2016-03-01

FSP27 has an important role in large lipid droplet (LD) formation because it exchanges lipids at the contact site between LDs. In the present study, we clarify that the amino-terminal domain of FSP27 (amino acids 1-130) is dispensable for LD enlargement, although it accelerates LD growth. LD expansion depends on the carboxy-terminal domain of FSP27 (amino acids 131-239). Especially, the negative charge of the acidic residues (D215, E218, E219 and E220) in the polar carboxy-terminal region (amino acids 202-239) is essential for the enlargement of LD. We propose that the carboxy-terminal domain of FSP27 has a crucial role in LD expansion, whereas the amino-terminal domain only has a supportive role. © 2016 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.

The pure estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,780 promotes a novel interaction of estrogen receptor-alpha with the 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding protein-binding protein/p300 coactivators.

PubMed

Jaber, Basem M; Gao, Tong; Huang, Luping; Karmakar, Sudipan; Smith, Carolyn L

2006-11-01

Estrogen receptor-alpha (ERalpha) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors. Abundant evidence demonstrates that ERalpha agonists promote, whereas antagonists inhibit, receptor binding to coactivators. In this report we demonstrate that binding of the ICI 182,780 (ICI) pure antiestrogen to ERalpha promotes its interaction with the cAMP response element-binding protein-binding protein (CBP)/p300 but not the p160 family of coactivators, demonstrating the specificity of this interaction. Amino acid mutations within the coactivator binding surface of the ERalpha ligand-binding domain revealed that CBP binds to this region of the ICI-liganded receptor. The carboxy-terminal cysteine-histidine rich domain 3 of CBP, rather than its amino-terminal nuclear interacting domain, shown previously to mediate agonist-dependent interactions of CBP with nuclear receptors, is required for binding to ICI-liganded ERalpha. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed that ICI but not the partial agonist/antagonist 4-hydroxytamoxifen is able to recruit CBP to the pS2 promoter, and this distinguishes ICI from this class of antiestrogens. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays for pS2 and cytochrome P450 1B1 promoter regions revealed that ICI-dependent recruitment of CBP, but not receptor, to ERalpha targets is gene specific. ICI treatment did not recruit the steroid receptor coactivator 1 to the pS2 promoter, and it failed to induce the expression of this gene. Taken together, these data indicate that recruitment of the CBP coactivator/cointegrator without steroid receptor coactivator 1 to ERalpha is insufficient to promote transcription of ERalpha target genes.

The PDZ Ligand Domain of the Human Papillomavirus Type 16 E6 Protein Is Required for E6's Induction of Epithelial Hyperplasia In Vivo

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Marie L.; Nguyen, Minh M.; Lee, Denis; Griep, Anne E.; Lambert, Paul F.

2003-01-01

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are the causative agent of warts. Infections with high-risk HPVs are associated with anogenital and head and neck cancers. One of the viral genes responsible for HPV's oncogenic activity is E6. Mice expressing the HPV-16 E6 protein in their epidermis (K14E6WT) develop epithelial hyperplasia and squamous carcinomas. Numerous cellular proteins interact with E6, some of which can be grouped based on common amino acid motifs in their E6-binding domains. One such group, the PDZ partners, including hDLG, hSCRIBBLE, MUPP1, and MAGI, bind to the carboxy-terminal four amino acids of E6 through their PDZ domains. E6's interaction with the PDZ partners leads to their degradation. Additionally, E6's binding to PDZ proteins has been correlated with its ability to transform baby rat kidney cells in tissue culture and to confer tumorigenicity onto cells in xenograft experiments. To address whether the ability of E6 to bind PDZ domain partners is necessary for E6 to confer epithelial hyperproliferation in vivo, we generated transgenic mice that express in stratified squamous epithelia a mutant of E6 lacking the last six amino acids at its carboxyl terminus, E6Δ146-151, from the human keratin 14 (K14) promoter. The K14E6Δ146-151 mice exhibit a radiation response similar to that of the K14E6WT mice, demonstrating that this protein, as predicted, retains an ability to inactivate p53. However, the K14E6Δ146-151 mice fail to display epithelial hyperplasia. These results indicate that an interaction of E6 with PDZ partners is necessary for its induction of epithelial hyperplasia. PMID:12768014

Positive evolutionary selection of an HD motif on Alzheimer precursor protein orthologues suggests a functional role.

PubMed

Miklós, István; Zádori, Zoltán

2012-02-01

HD amino acid duplex has been found in the active center of many different enzymes. The dyad plays remarkably different roles in their catalytic processes that usually involve metal coordination. An HD motif is positioned directly on the amyloid beta fragment (Aβ) and on the carboxy-terminal region of the extracellular domain (CAED) of the human amyloid precursor protein (APP) and a taxonomically well defined group of APP orthologues (APPOs). In human Aβ HD is part of a presumed, RGD-like integrin-binding motif RHD; however, neither RHD nor RXD demonstrates reasonable conservation in APPOs. The sequences of CAEDs and the position of the HD are not particularly conserved either, yet we show with a novel statistical method using evolutionary modeling that the presence of HD on CAEDs cannot be the result of neutral evolutionary forces (p<0.0001). The motif is positively selected along the evolutionary process in the majority of APPOs, despite the fact that HD motif is underrepresented in the proteomes of all species of the animal kingdom. Position migration can be explained by high probability occurrence of multiple copies of HD on intermediate sequences, from which only one is kept by selective evolutionary forces, in a similar way as in the case of the "transcription binding site turnover." CAED of all APP orthologues and homologues are predicted to bind metal ions including Amyloid-like protein 1 (APLP1) and Amyloid-like protein 2 (APLP2). Our results suggest that HDs on the CAEDs are most probably key components of metal-binding domains, which facilitate and/or regulate inter- or intra-molecular interactions in a metal ion-dependent or metal ion concentration-dependent manner. The involvement of naturally occurring mutations of HD (Tottori (D7N) and English (H6R) mutations) in early onset Alzheimer's disease gives additional support to our finding that HD has an evolutionary preserved function on APPOs.

Positive Evolutionary Selection of an HD Motif on Alzheimer Precursor Protein Orthologues Suggests a Functional Role

PubMed Central

Miklós, István; Zádori, Zoltán

2012-01-01

HD amino acid duplex has been found in the active center of many different enzymes. The dyad plays remarkably different roles in their catalytic processes that usually involve metal coordination. An HD motif is positioned directly on the amyloid beta fragment (Aβ) and on the carboxy-terminal region of the extracellular domain (CAED) of the human amyloid precursor protein (APP) and a taxonomically well defined group of APP orthologues (APPOs). In human Aβ HD is part of a presumed, RGD-like integrin-binding motif RHD; however, neither RHD nor RXD demonstrates reasonable conservation in APPOs. The sequences of CAEDs and the position of the HD are not particularly conserved either, yet we show with a novel statistical method using evolutionary modeling that the presence of HD on CAEDs cannot be the result of neutral evolutionary forces (p<0.0001). The motif is positively selected along the evolutionary process in the majority of APPOs, despite the fact that HD motif is underrepresented in the proteomes of all species of the animal kingdom. Position migration can be explained by high probability occurrence of multiple copies of HD on intermediate sequences, from which only one is kept by selective evolutionary forces, in a similar way as in the case of the “transcription binding site turnover.” CAED of all APP orthologues and homologues are predicted to bind metal ions including Amyloid-like protein 1 (APLP1) and Amyloid-like protein 2 (APLP2). Our results suggest that HDs on the CAEDs are most probably key components of metal-binding domains, which facilitate and/or regulate inter- or intra-molecular interactions in a metal ion-dependent or metal ion concentration-dependent manner. The involvement of naturally occurring mutations of HD (Tottori (D7N) and English (H6R) mutations) in early onset Alzheimer's disease gives additional support to our finding that HD has an evolutionary preserved function on APPOs. PMID:22319430

Spectraplakins promote microtubule-mediated axonal growth by functioning as structural MAPs and EB1-dependent +TIPs

PubMed Central

Alves-Silva, J.; Sánchez-Soriano, N.; Beaven, R.; Klein, M.; Parkin, J.; Millard, T.H.; Bellen, H. J; Venken, K. J.T.; Ballestrem, C.; Kammerer, R.A.; Prokop, A.

2013-01-01

The correct outgrowth of axons is essential for the development and regeneration of nervous systems. Axon growth is primarily driven by microtubules. Key regulators of microtubules in this context are the spectraplakins, a family of evolutionarily conserved actin-microtubule linkers. Loss of function of the mouse spectraplakin ACF7 or of its close Drosophila homologue Short stop/Shot similarly cause severe axon shortening and microtubule disorganisation. How spectraplakins perform these functions is not known. Here we show that axonal growth promoting roles of Shot require interaction with EB1 (End binding protein) at polymerising plus ends of microtubules. We show that binding of Shot to EB1 requires SxIP motifs in Shot’s carboxyterminal tail (Ctail), mutations of these motifs abolish Shot functions in axonal growth, loss of EB1 function phenocopies Shot loss, and genetic interaction studies reveal strong functional links between Shot and EB1 in axonal growth and microtubule organisation. In addition, we report that Shot localises along microtubule shafts and stabilises them against pharmacologically induced depolymerisation. This function is EB1-independent but requires net positive charges within Ctail which essentially contribute to the microtubule shaft association of Shot. Therefore, spectraplakins are true members of two important classes of neuronal microtubule regulating proteins: +TIPs (plus end regulators) and structural MAPs (microtubule associated proteins). From our data we deduce a model that relates the different features of the spectraplakin carboxy-terminus to the two functions of Shot during axonal growth. PMID:22764224

Phosphonate Analogs of 2-Oxoglutarate Perturb Metabolism and Gene Expression in Illuminated Arabidopsis Leaves

PubMed Central

Araújo, Wagner L.; Tohge, Takayuki; Nunes-Nesi, Adriano; Daloso, Danilo M.; Nimick, Mhairi; Krahnert, Ina; Bunik, Victoria I.; Moorhead, Greg B. G.; Fernie, Alisdair R.

2012-01-01

Although the role of the 2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase complex (2-OGDHC) has previously been demonstrated in plant heterotrophic tissues its role in photosynthetically active tissues remains poorly understood. By using a combination of metabolite and transcript profiles we here investigated the function of 2-OGDHC in leaves of Arabidopsis thaliana via use of specific phosphonate inhibitors of the enzyme. Incubation of leaf disks with the inhibitors revealed that they produced the anticipated effects on the in situ enzyme activity. In vitro experiments revealed that succinyl phosphonate (SP) and a carboxy ethyl ester of SP are slow-binding inhibitors of the 2-OGDHC. Our results indicate that the reduced respiration rates are associated with changes in the regulation of metabolic and signaling pathways leading to an imbalance in carbon-nitrogen metabolism and cell homeostasis. The inducible alteration of primary metabolism was associated with altered expression of genes belonging to networks of amino acids, plant respiration, and sugar metabolism. In addition, by using isothermal titration calorimetry we excluded the possibility that the changes in gene expression resulted from an effect on 2-oxoglutarate (2OG) binding to the carbon/ATP sensing protein PII. We also demonstrated that the 2OG degradation by the 2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase strongly influences the distribution of intermediates of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and the GABA shunt. Our results indicate that the TCA cycle activity is clearly working in a non-cyclic manner upon 2-OGDHC inhibition during the light period. PMID:22876250

Influence of para-substituents on the oxidative metabolism of o-nitrophenols by Pseudomonas putida B2.

PubMed Central

Zeyer, J; Kocher, H P; Timmis, K N

1986-01-01

Pseudomonas putida B2 is able to grow on o-nitrophenol (ONP) as the sole source of carbon and nitrogen. ONP was converted by a nitrophenol oxygenase to nitrite and catechol. Catechol was then attacked by a catechol 1,2-dioxygenase and further degraded through an ortho-cleavage pathway. ONP derivatives which were para-substituted with a methyl-, chloro-, carboxy-, formyl- or nitro-group failed to support growth of strain B2. Relevant catabolic enzymes were characterized to analyze why these derivatives were not mineralized. Nitrophenol oxygenase of strain B2 is a soluble, NADPH-dependent enzyme that is stimulated by magnesium, manganese, and calcium ions. It is active toward ONP, 4-methyl-, 4-chloro-, and to a lesser extent, 4-formyl-ONP but not toward 4-carboxy- or 4-nitro-ONP. In addition, 4-formyl-, 4-carboxy-, and 4-nitro-ONP failed to induce the formation of nitrophenol oxygenase. Catechol 1,2-dioxygenase of strain B2 is active toward catechol and 4-methyl-catechol but only poorly active toward chlorinated catechols. 4-Methyl-catechol is likely to be degraded to methyl-lactones, which are often dead-end metabolites in bacteria. Thus, of the compounds tested, only unsubstituted ONP acts as an inducer and substrate for all of the enzymes of a productive catabolic pathway. PMID:3752997

On the binding of calcium by micelles composed of carboxy-modified pluronics measured by means of differential potentiometric titration and modeled with a self-consistent-field theory.

PubMed

Lauw, Y; Leermakers, F A M; Cohen Stuart, M A; Pinheiro, J P; Custers, J P A; van den Broeke, L J P; Keurentjes, J T F

2006-12-19

We perform differential potentiometric titration measurements for the binding of Ca2+ ions to micelles composed of the carboxylic acid end-standing Pluronic P85 block copolymer (i.e., CAE-85 (COOH-(EO)26-(PO)39-(EO)26-COOH)). Two different ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) are used to detect the free calcium concentration; the first ISE is an indicator electrode, and the second is a reference electrode. The titration is done by adding the block copolymers to a known solution of Ca2+ at neutral pH and high enough temperature (above the critical micellization temperature CMT) and various amount of added monovalent salt. By measuring the difference in the electromotive force between the two ISEs, the amount of Ca2+ that is bound by the micelles is calculated. This is then used to determine the binding constant of Ca2+ with the micelles, which is a missing parameter needed to perform molecular realistic self-consistent-field (SCF) calculations. It turns out that the micelles from block copolymer CAE-85 bind Ca2+ ions both electrostatically and specifically. The specific binding between Ca2+ and carboxylic groups in the corona of the micelles is modeled through the reaction equilibrium -COOCa+ <==> -COO- + Ca2+ with pKCa = 1.7 +/- 0.06.

Structural Relationships Between Minor and Major Proteins of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen

PubMed Central

Stibbe, Werner; Gerlich, Wolfram H.

1983-01-01

The minor glycoproteins from hepatitis B surface antigen, GP33 and GP36, contain at their carboxy-terminal part the sequence of the major protein P24. They have 55 additional amino acids at the amino-terminal part which are coded by the pre-S region of the viral DNA. Images PMID:6842680

Caffeine inhibits glucose transport by binding at the GLUT1 nucleotide-binding site

PubMed Central

Sage, Jay M.; Cura, Anthony J.; Lloyd, Kenneth P.

2015-01-01

Glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) is the primary glucose transport protein of the cardiovascular system and astroglia. A recent study proposes that caffeine uncompetitive inhibition of GLUT1 results from interactions at an exofacial GLUT1 site. Intracellular ATP is also an uncompetitive GLUT1 inhibitor and shares structural similarities with caffeine, suggesting that caffeine acts at the previously characterized endofacial GLUT1 nucleotide-binding site. We tested this by confirming that caffeine uncompetitively inhibits GLUT1-mediated 3-O-methylglucose uptake in human erythrocytes [Vmax and Km for transport are reduced fourfold; Ki(app) = 3.5 mM caffeine]. ATP and AMP antagonize caffeine inhibition of 3-O-methylglucose uptake in erythrocyte ghosts by increasing Ki(app) for caffeine inhibition of transport from 0.9 ± 0.3 mM in the absence of intracellular nucleotides to 2.6 ± 0.6 and 2.4 ± 0.5 mM in the presence of 5 mM intracellular ATP or AMP, respectively. Extracellular ATP has no effect on sugar uptake or its inhibition by caffeine. Caffeine and ATP displace the fluorescent ATP derivative, trinitrophenyl-ATP, from the GLUT1 nucleotide-binding site, but d-glucose and the transport inhibitor cytochalasin B do not. Caffeine, but not ATP, inhibits cytochalasin B binding to GLUT1. Like ATP, caffeine renders the GLUT1 carboxy-terminus less accessible to peptide-directed antibodies, but cytochalasin B and d-glucose do not. These results suggest that the caffeine-binding site bridges two nonoverlapping GLUT1 endofacial sites—the regulatory, nucleotide-binding site and the cytochalasin B-binding site. Caffeine binding to GLUT1 mimics the action of ATP but not cytochalasin B on sugar transport. Molecular docking studies support this hypothesis. PMID:25715702

Crystal Structure of a Phosphorylation-coupled Saccharide Transporter

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Y Cao; X Jin; E Levin

Saccharides have a central role in the nutrition of all living organisms. Whereas several saccharide uptake systems are shared between the different phylogenetic kingdoms, the phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent phosphotransferase system exists almost exclusively in bacteria. This multi-component system includes an integral membrane protein EIIC that transports saccharides and assists in their phosphorylation. Here we present the crystal structure of an EIIC from Bacillus cereus that transports diacetylchitobiose. The EIIC is a homodimer, with an expansive interface formed between the amino-terminal halves of the two protomers. The carboxy-terminal half of each protomer has a large binding pocket that contains a diacetylchitobiose, which ismore » occluded from both sides of the membrane with its site of phosphorylation near the conserved His250 and Glu334 residues. The structure shows the architecture of this important class of transporters, identifies the determinants of substrate binding and phosphorylation, and provides a framework for understanding the mechanism of sugar translocation.« less

The Ldb1 and Ldb2 Transcriptional Cofactors Interact with the Ste20-like Kinase SLK and Regulate Cell Migration

PubMed Central

Storbeck, Chris J.; Wagner, Simona; O'Reilly, Paul; McKay, Marlene; Parks, Robin J.; Westphal, Heiner

2009-01-01

Cell migration involves a multitude of signals that converge on cytoskeletal reorganization, essential for development, immune responses, and tissue repair. Here, we show that the microtubule-associated Ste20 kinase SLK, required for cell migration, interacts with the LIM domain binding transcriptional cofactor proteins Ldb1/CLIM2 and Ldb2/CLIM1/NLI. We demonstrate that Ldb1 and 2 bind directly to the SLK carboxy-terminal AT1-46 homology domain in vitro and in vivo. We find that Ldb1 and -2 colocalize with SLK in migrating cells and that both knockdown and overexpression of either factor results in increased motility. Supporting this, knockdown of Ldb1 increases focal adhesion turnover and enhances migration in fibroblasts. We propose that Ldb1/2 function to maintain SLK in an inactive state before its activation. These findings highlight a novel function for Ldb1 and -2 and expand their role to include the control of cell migration. PMID:19675209

Metal-sulfate induced generation of ROS in human brain cells: detection using an isomeric mixture of 5- and 6-carboxy-2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (carboxy-DCFDA) as a cell permeant tracer.

PubMed

Pogue, Aileen I; Jones, Brandon M; Bhattacharjee, Surjyadipta; Percy, Maire E; Zhao, Yuhai; Lukiw, Walter J

2012-01-01

Evolution of reactive oxygen species (ROS), generated during the patho-physiological stress of nervous tissue, has been implicated in the etiology of several progressive human neurological disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and amylotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In this brief communication we used mixed isomers of 5-(and-6)-carboxy-2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (carboxy-DCFDA; C(25)H(14)C(l2)O(9); MW 529.3), a novel fluorescent indicator, to assess ROS generation within human neuronal-glial (HNG) cells in primary co-culture. We introduced pathological stress using the sulfates of 12 environmentally-, industrially- and agriculturally-relevant divalent and trivalent metals including Al, Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg, Ga, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sn and Zn. In this experimental test system, of all the metal sulfates analyzed, aluminum sulfate showed by far the greatest ability to induce intracellular ROS. These studies indicate the utility of using isomeric mixtures of carboxy-H(2)DCFDA diacetates as novel and highly sensitive, long-lasting, cell-permeant, fluorescein-based tracers for quantifying ROS generation in intact, metabolizing human brain cells, and in analyzing the potential epigenetic contribution of different metal sulfates to ROS-generation and ROS-mediated neurological dysfunction.

Structural interpretation of P2X receptor mutagenesis studies on drug action.

PubMed

Evans, Richard J

2010-11-01

P2X receptors for ATP are ligand gated cation channels that form from the trimeric assembly of subunits with two transmembrane segments, a large extracellular ligand binding loop, and intracellular amino and carboxy termini. The receptors are expressed throughout the body, involved in functions ranging from blood clotting to inflammation, and may provide important targets for novel therapeutics. Mutagenesis based studies have been used to develop an understanding of the molecular basis of their pharmacology with the aim of developing models of the ligand binding site. A crystal structure for the zebra fish P2X4 receptor in the closed agonist unbound state has been published recently, which provides a major advance in our understanding of the receptors. This review gives an overview of mutagenesis studies that have led to the development of a model of the ATP binding site, as well as identifying residues contributing to allosteric regulation and antagonism. These studies are discussed with reference to the crystal to provide a structural interpretation of the molecular basis of drug action. © 2010 The Author. British Journal of Pharmacology © 2010 The British Pharmacological Society.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, R.; Pappas, T.; Brace, J.

Many proteobacteria are able to monitor their population densities through the release of pheromones known as N-acylhomoserine lactones. At high population densities, these pheromones elicit diverse responses that include bioluminescence, biofilm formation, production of antimicrobials, DNA exchange, pathogenesis and symbiosis1. Many of these regulatory systems require a pheromone-dependent transcription factor similar to the LuxR protein of Vibrio fischeri. Here we present the structure of a LuxR-type protein. TraR of Agrobacterium tumefaciens was solved at 1.66 A as a complex with the pheromone N-3-oxooctanoyl-l-homoserine lactone (OOHL) and its TraR DNA-binding site. The amino-terminal domain of TraR is an {alpha}/{beta}/{alpha} sandwich thatmore » binds OOHL, whereas the carboxy-terminal domain contains a helix-turn-helix DNA-binding motif. The TraR dimer displays a two-fold symmetry axis in each domain; however, these two axes of symmetry are at an approximately 90 degree angle, resulting in a pronounced overall asymmetry of the complex. The pheromone lies fully embedded within the protein with virtually no solvent contact, and makes numerous hydrophobic contacts with the protein as well as four hydrogen bonds: three direct and one water-mediated.« less

Protein–Protein Interactions Modulate the Docking-Dependent E3-Ubiquitin Ligase Activity of Carboxy-Terminus of Hsc70-Interacting Protein (CHIP)*

PubMed Central

Narayan, Vikram; Landré, Vivien; Ning, Jia; Hernychova, Lenka; Muller, Petr; Verma, Chandra; Walkinshaw, Malcolm D.; Blackburn, Elizabeth A.; Ball, Kathryn L.

2015-01-01

CHIP is a tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) domain protein that functions as an E3-ubiquitin ligase. As well as linking the molecular chaperones to the ubiquitin proteasome system, CHIP also has a docking-dependent mode where it ubiquitinates native substrates, thereby regulating their steady state levels and/or function. Here we explore the effect of Hsp70 on the docking-dependent E3-ligase activity of CHIP. The TPR-domain is revealed as a binding site for allosteric modulators involved in determining CHIP's dynamic conformation and activity. Biochemical, biophysical and modeling evidence demonstrate that Hsp70-binding to the TPR, or Hsp70-mimetic mutations, regulate CHIP-mediated ubiquitination of p53 and IRF-1 through effects on U-box activity and substrate binding. HDX-MS was used to establish that conformational-inhibition-signals extended from the TPR-domain to the U-box. This underscores inter-domain allosteric regulation of CHIP by the core molecular chaperones. Defining the chaperone-associated TPR-domain of CHIP as a manager of inter-domain communication highlights the potential for scaffolding modules to regulate, as well as assemble, complexes that are fundamental to protein homeostatic control. PMID:26330542

Photophysical Characterization and BSA Interaction of Direct Ring Carboxy Functionalized Symmetrical squaraine Dyes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saikiran, Maryala; Pandey, Shyam S.; Hayase, Shuzi; Kato, Tamaki

2017-11-01

A series of far-red sensitive symmetrical squaraine dyes bearing direct -COOH functionalized indole ring were synthesized, characterized and subjected to photophysical investigations. These symmetrical squaraine dyes were then subjected to investigate their interaction with bovine serum albumin (BSA) in Phosphate buffer solutions. All the squaraine dyes under investigation exhibit intense and sharp optical absorption mainly in the far-red wavelength region from 550 nm -700 nm having very high molar extinction coefficients from 1.3 × 105 dm3.mol-1.cm-1. A very small Stokes shift of 10-17 nm indicates the rigid conformational structure of squaraine chromophore. Interaction of these dyes with BSA leads to not only enhanced emission intensity but also bathochromically shifted absorption maximum due to formation of dye-BSA conjugate. These dyes bind strongly with BSA having about an order of magnitude higher binding constant as compared to the reported squaraine dyes. Amongst the symmetrical squaraine dyes investigated in this work one bearing substituents like trifluorobutyl as alkyl chain at N-position of indole ring and carboxylic acid on benzene ring at the terminal (SQ-26) exhibited highest association with the BSA having very high binding constant 8.01 × 106 M-1.

Zinc Finger Independent Genome-Wide Binding of Sp2 Potentiates Recruitment of Histone-Fold Protein Nf-y Distinguishing It from Sp1 and Sp3

PubMed Central

Finkernagel, Florian; Stiewe, Thorsten; Nist, Andrea; Suske, Guntram

2015-01-01

Transcription factors are grouped into families based on sequence similarity within functional domains, particularly DNA-binding domains. The Specificity proteins Sp1, Sp2 and Sp3 are paradigmatic of closely related transcription factors. They share amino-terminal glutamine-rich regions and a conserved carboxy-terminal zinc finger domain that can bind to GC rich motifs in vitro. All three Sp proteins are ubiquitously expressed; yet they carry out unique functions in vivo raising the question of how specificity is achieved. Crucially, it is unknown whether they bind to distinct genomic sites and, if so, how binding site selection is accomplished. In this study, we have examined the genomic binding patterns of Sp1, Sp2 and Sp3 in mouse embryonic fibroblasts by ChIP-seq. Sp1 and Sp3 essentially occupy the same promoters and localize to GC boxes. The genomic binding pattern of Sp2 is different; Sp2 primarily localizes at CCAAT motifs. Consistently, re-expression of Sp2 and Sp3 mutants in corresponding knockout MEFs revealed strikingly different modes of genomic binding site selection. Most significantly, while the zinc fingers dictate genomic binding of Sp3, they are completely dispensable for binding of Sp2. Instead, the glutamine-rich amino-terminal region is sufficient for recruitment of Sp2 to its target promoters in vivo. We have identified the trimeric histone-fold CCAAT box binding transcription factor Nf-y as the major partner for Sp2-chromatin interaction. Nf-y is critical for recruitment of Sp2 to co-occupied regulatory elements. Equally, Sp2 potentiates binding of Nf-y to shared sites indicating the existence of an extensive Sp2-Nf-y interaction network. Our results unveil strikingly different recruitment mechanisms of Sp1/Sp2/Sp3 transcription factor members uncovering an unexpected layer of complexity in their binding to chromatin in vivo. PMID:25793500

Ceruloplasmin (ferroxidase) oxidizes hydroxylamine probes: deceptive implications for free radical detection

PubMed Central

Ganini, Douglas; Canistro, Donatella; Jang, JinJie; Stadler, Krisztian; Mason, Ronald P.; Kadiiska, Maria B.

2012-01-01

Ceruloplasmin (ferroxidase) is a copper-binding protein known to promote Fe2+ oxidation in plasma of mammals. Besides its classical ferroxidase activity, ceruloplasmin is known to catalyze the oxidation of various substrates, such as amines and catechols. Assays based on cyclic hydroxylamine oxidation are used to quantify and detect free radicals in biological samples ex vivo and in vitro. We show here that human ceruloplasmin promotes the oxidation of the cyclic hydroxylamine 1-hydroxy-3-carboxy-2,2,5,5-tetramethylpyrrolidine hydrochloride (CPH) and related probes in Chelex-treated phosphate buffer and rat serum. The reaction is suppressed by the metal chelators DTPA, EDTA and Desferal, while heparin and bathocuproine have no effect. Catalase or SOD additions do not interfere with the CPH-oxidation yield, demonstrating that free radicals are not involved in the CPH oxidation mediated by ceruloplasmin. Plasma samples immunodepleted of ceruloplasmin have lower levels of CPH oxidation, which confirms the role of ceruloplasmin (ferroxidase) as a biological oxidizing agent of cyclic hydroxylamines. In conclusion, we show that the ferroxidase activity of ceruloplasmin is a possible biological source of artifacts in the cyclic hydroxylamine-oxidation assay used for ROS detection and quantification. PMID:22824865

Interactions between Casein Kinase Iε (CKIε) and Two Substrates from Disparate Signaling Pathways Reveal Mechanisms for Substrate-Kinase Specificity

PubMed Central

Dahlberg, Caroline Lund; Nguyen, Elizabeth Z.; Goodlett, David; Kimelman, David

2009-01-01

Background Members of the Casein Kinase I (CKI) family of serine/threonine kinases regulate diverse biological pathways. The seven mammalian CKI isoforms contain a highly conserved kinase domain and divergent amino- and carboxy-termini. Although they share a preferred target recognition sequence and have overlapping expression patterns, individual isoforms often have specific substrates. In an effort to determine how substrates recognize differences between CKI isoforms, we have examined the interaction between CKIε and two substrates from different signaling pathways. Methodology/Principal Findings CKIε, but not CKIα, binds to and phosphorylates two proteins: Period, a transcriptional regulator of the circadian rhythms pathway, and Disheveled, an activator of the planar cell polarity pathway. We use GST-pull-down assays data to show that two key residues in CKIα's kinase domain prevent Disheveled and Period from binding. We also show that the unique C-terminus of CKIε does not determine Dishevelled's and Period's preference for CKIε nor is it essential for binding, but instead plays an auxillary role in stabilizing the interactions of CKIε with its substrates. We demonstrate that autophosphorylation of CKIε's C-terminal tail prevents substrate binding, and use mass spectrometry and chemical crosslinking to reveal how a phosphorylation-dependent interaction between the C-terminal tail and the kinase domain prevents substrate phosphorylation and binding. Conclusions/Significance The biochemical interactions between CKIε and Disheveled, Period, and its own C-terminus lead to models that explain CKIε's specificity and regulation. PMID:19274088

Metal-Sulfate Induced Generation of ROS in Human Brain Cells: Detection Using an Isomeric Mixture of 5- and 6-Carboxy-2′,7′-Dichlorofluorescein Diacetate (Carboxy-DCFDA) as a Cell Permeant Tracer

PubMed Central

Pogue, Aileen I.; Jones, Brandon M.; Bhattacharjee, Surjyadipta; Percy, Maire E.; Zhao, Yuhai; Lukiw, Walter J.

2012-01-01

Evolution of reactive oxygen species (ROS), generated during the patho-physiological stress of nervous tissue, has been implicated in the etiology of several progressive human neurological disorders including Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and amylotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In this brief communication we used mixed isomers of 5-(and-6)-carboxy-2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (carboxy-DCFDA; C25H14Cl2O9; MW 529.3), a novel fluorescent indicator, to assess ROS generation within human neuronal-glial (HNG) cells in primary co-culture. We introduced pathological stress using the sulfates of 12 environmentally-, industrially- and agriculturally-relevant divalent and trivalent metals including Al, Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg, Ga, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sn and Zn. In this experimental test system, of all the metal sulfates analyzed, aluminum sulfate showed by far the greatest ability to induce intracellular ROS. These studies indicate the utility of using isomeric mixtures of carboxy-H2DCFDA diacetates as novel and highly sensitive, long-lasting, cell-permeant, fluorescein-based tracers for quantifying ROS generation in intact, metabolizing human brain cells, and in analyzing the potential epigenetic contribution of different metal sulfates to ROS-generation and ROS-mediated neurological dysfunction. PMID:22949820

Crystal structures of CbpF complexed with atropine and ipratropium reveal clues for the design of novel antimicrobials against Streptococcus pneumoniae.

PubMed

Silva-Martín, Noella; Retamosa, M Gracia; Maestro, Beatriz; Bartual, Sergio G; Rodes, María J; García, Pedro; Sanz, Jesús M; Hermoso, Juan A

2014-01-01

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a major pathogen responsible of important diseases worldwide such as pneumonia and meningitis. An increasing resistance level hampers the use of currently available antibiotics to treat pneumococcal diseases. Consequently, it is desirable to find new targets for the development of novel antimicrobial drugs to treat pneumococcal infections. Surface choline-binding proteins (CBPs) are essential in bacterial physiology and infectivity. In this sense, esters of bicyclic amines (EBAs) such as atropine and ipratropium have been previously described to act as choline analogs and effectively compete with teichoic acids on binding to CBPs, consequently preventing in vitro pneumococcal growth, altering cell morphology and reducing cell viability. With the aim of gaining a deeper insight into the structural determinants of the strong interaction between CBPs and EBAs, the three-dimensional structures of choline-binding protein F (CbpF), one of the most abundant proteins in the pneumococcal cell wall, complexed with atropine and ipratropium, have been obtained. The choline analogs bound both to the carboxy-terminal module, involved in cell wall binding, and, unexpectedly, also to the amino-terminal module, that possesses a regulatory role in pneumococcal autolysis. Analysis of the complexes confirmed the importance of the tropic acid moiety of the EBAs on the strength of the binding, through π-π interactions with aromatic residues in the binding site. These results represent the first example describing the molecular basis of the inhibition of CBPs by EBA molecules and pave the way for the development of new generations of antipneumococcal drugs. © 2013.

Rates and equilibrium constants of the ligand-induced conformational transition of an HCN ion channel protein domain determined by DEER spectroscopy.

PubMed

Collauto, Alberto; DeBerg, Hannah A; Kaufmann, Royi; Zagotta, William N; Stoll, Stefan; Goldfarb, Daniella

2017-06-14

Ligand binding can induce significant conformational changes in proteins. The mechanism of this process couples equilibria associated with the ligand binding event and the conformational change. Here we show that by combining the application of W-band double electron-electron resonance (DEER) spectroscopy with microfluidic rapid freeze quench (μRFQ) it is possible to resolve these processes and obtain both equilibrium constants and reaction rates. We studied the conformational transition of the nitroxide labeled, isolated carboxy-terminal cyclic-nucleotide binding domain (CNBD) of the HCN2 ion channel upon binding of the ligand 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Using model-based global analysis, the time-resolved data of the μRFQ DEER experiments directly provide fractional populations of the open and closed conformations as a function of time. We modeled the ligand-induced conformational change in the protein using a four-state model: apo/open (AO), apo/closed (AC), bound/open (BO), bound/closed (BC). These species interconvert according to AC + L ⇌ AO + L ⇌ BO ⇌ BC. By analyzing the concentration dependence of the relative contributions of the closed and open conformations at equilibrium, we estimated the equilibrium constants for the two conformational equilibria and the open-state ligand dissociation constant. Analysis of the time-resolved μRFQ DEER data gave estimates for the intrinsic rates of ligand binding and unbinding as well as the rates of the conformational change. This demonstrates that DEER can quantitatively resolve both the thermodynamics and the kinetics of ligand binding and the associated conformational change.

Effect of added ingredients on water status and physico-chemical properties of tomato sauce.

PubMed

Diantom, Agoura; Curti, Elena; Carini, Eleonora; Vittadini, Elena

2017-12-01

Different ingredients (guar, xanthan, carboxy methyl cellulose, locust bean gums, potato fiber, milk, potato and soy proteins) were added to tomato sauce to investigate their effect on its physico-chemical properties. The products were characterized in terms of colour, rheological properties (Bostwick consistency, flow behavior and consistency coefficient), water status (water activity, moisture content) and molecular mobility by 1 H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). Water activity was significantly decreased only by the addition of potato fiber. Xanthan, locust bean, guar and carboxy methyl cellulose significantly enhanced Bostwick consistency and consistency coefficient. Type of ingredient and concentration significantly affected 1 H NMR mobility indicators. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that only 1 H NMR mobility parameters were able to differentiate the effect of milk protein, xanthan and potato fiber on tomato sauce properties. The information collected in this work provides information to intelligently modulate tomato sauce attributes and tailor its properties for specific applications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Human adenovirus serotype 12 virion precursors pMu and pVI are cleaved at amino-terminal and carboxy-terminal sites that conform to the adenovirus 2 endoproteinase cleavage consensus sequence.

PubMed

Freimuth, P; Anderson, C W

1993-03-01

The sequence of a 1158-base pair fragment of the human adenovirus serotype 12 (Ad12) genome was determined. This segment encodes the precursors for virion components Mu and VI. Both Ad12 precursors contain two sequences that conform to a consensus sequence motif for cleavage by the endoproteinase of adenovirus 2 (Ad2). Analysis of the amino terminus of VI and of the peptide fragments found in Ad12 virions demonstrated that these sites are cleaved during Ad12 maturation. This observation suggests that the recognition motif for adenovirus endoproteinases is highly conserved among human serotypes. The adenovirus 2 endoproteinase polypeptide requires additional co-factors for activity (C. W. Anderson, Protein Expression Purif., 1993, 4, 8-15). Synthetic Ad12 or Ad2 pVI carboxy-terminal peptides each permitted efficient cleavage of an artificial endoproteinase substrate by recombinant Ad2 endoproteinase polypeptide.

The conformational flexibility of the carboxy terminal residues 105–114 is a key modulator of the catalytic activity and stability of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF)†

PubMed Central

El-Turk, Farah; Cascella, Michele; Ouertatani-Sakouhi, Hajer; Narayanan, Raghavendran Lakshmi; Leng, Lin; Bucala, Richard; Hweckstetter, Markus; Rothlisberger, Ursula; Lashuel, Hilal A.

2013-01-01

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a multifunctional protein and a major mediator of innate immunity. Although X-ray crystallography revealed that MIF exists as a homotrimer, its oligomerization state in vivo as well as the factors governing its oligomerization and stability remain poorly understood. The C-terminal region of MIF is highly conserved and participates in several intramolecular interactions that suggest a role in modulating the stability and biochemical activity of MIF. To determine the importance of these interactions, point mutations (A48P, L46A), insertions (P107) at the monomer-monomer interfaces, and C-terminal deletion (Δ110-114NSTFA and Δ105–114NVGWNNSTFA) variants were designed and their structural properties, thermodynamic stability, oligomerization state, catalytic activity and receptor binding were characterized using a battery of biophysical methods. The C-terminal deletion mutants ΔC5 huMIF1-109 and ΔC10 huMIF1-104 were enzymatically inactive and thermodynamically less stable than wild type MIF. Analytical ultracentrifugation studies demonstrate that both C-terminal mutants sediment as trimers and exhibit similar binding to CD74 as the wild type protein. Disrupting the conformation of the C-terminal region 105–114 and increasing its conformational flexibility through the insertion of a proline residue at position 107 was sufficient to reproduce the structural, biochemical and thermodynamic properties of the deletion mutants. P107 MIF forms an enzymatically inactive trimer and exhibits reduced thermodynamic stability relative to the wild type protein. To provide a rationale for the changes induced by these mutations at the molecular level, we also performed molecular dynamics simulations on these mutants in comparison to the wild type MIF. Together, our studies demonstrate that inter-subunit interactions involving the C-terminal region 105–114, including a salt-bridge interaction between Arg73 of one monomer and the carboxy terminus of a neighbouring monomer, play critical roles in modulating tertiary structure stabilization, enzymatic activity, and thermodynamic stability of MIF, but not its oligomerization state and receptor binding properties. Our results suggest that targeting the C-terminal region could provide new strategies for allosteric modulation of MIF enzymatic activity and the development of novel inhibitors of MIF tautomerase activity. PMID:18795803

Microhydration and the Enhanced Acidity of Free Radicals.

PubMed

Walton, John C

2018-02-14

Recent theoretical research employing a continuum solvent model predicted that radical centers would enhance the acidity (RED-shift) of certain proton-donor molecules. Microhydration studies employing a DFT method are reported here with the aim of establishing the effect of the solvent micro-structure on the acidity of radicals with and without RED-shifts. Microhydration cluster structures were obtained for carboxyl, carboxy-ethynyl, carboxy-methyl, and hydroperoxyl radicals. The numbers of water molecules needed to induce spontaneous ionization were determined. The hydration clusters formed primarily round the CO₂ units of the carboxylate-containing radicals. Only 4 or 5 water molecules were needed to induce ionization of carboxyl and carboxy-ethynyl radicals, thus corroborating their large RED-shifts.

Structure-guided discovery of the metabolite carboxy-SAM that modulates tRNA function.

PubMed

Kim, Jungwook; Xiao, Hui; Bonanno, Jeffrey B; Kalyanaraman, Chakrapani; Brown, Shoshana; Tang, Xiangying; Al-Obaidi, Nawar F; Patskovsky, Yury; Babbitt, Patricia C; Jacobson, Matthew P; Lee, Young-Sam; Almo, Steven C

2013-06-06

The identification of novel metabolites and the characterization of their biological functions are major challenges in biology. X-ray crystallography can reveal unanticipated ligands that persist through purification and crystallization. These adventitious protein-ligand complexes provide insights into new activities, pathways and regulatory mechanisms. We describe a new metabolite, carboxy-S-adenosyl-l-methionine (Cx-SAM), its biosynthetic pathway and its role in transfer RNA modification. The structure of CmoA, a member of the SAM-dependent methyltransferase superfamily, revealed a ligand consistent with Cx-SAM in the catalytic site. Mechanistic analyses showed an unprecedented role for prephenate as the carboxyl donor and the involvement of a unique ylide intermediate as the carboxyl acceptor in the CmoA-mediated conversion of SAM to Cx-SAM. A second member of the SAM-dependent methyltransferase superfamily, CmoB, recognizes Cx-SAM and acts as a carboxymethyltransferase to convert 5-hydroxyuridine into 5-oxyacetyl uridine at the wobble position of multiple tRNAs in Gram-negative bacteria, resulting in expanded codon-recognition properties. CmoA and CmoB represent the first documented synthase and transferase for Cx-SAM. These findings reveal new functional diversity in the SAM-dependent methyltransferase superfamily and expand the metabolic and biological contributions of SAM-based biochemistry. These discoveries highlight the value of structural genomics approaches in identifying ligands within the context of their physiologically relevant macromolecular binding partners, and in revealing their functions.

A role of carboxy-terminal region of Toxoplasma gondii-heat shock protein 70 in enhancement of T. gondii infection in mice

PubMed Central

Mun, Hye-Seong; Norose, Kazumi; Aosai, Fumie; Chen, Mei

2000-01-01

We investigated the role of recombinant Toxoplasma gondii heat shock protein (rT.g.HSP) 70-full length, rT.g.HSP70-NH2-terminal region, or rT.g.HSP70-carboxy-terminal region in prophylactic immunity in C57BL/6 mice perorally infected with Fukaya cysts of T. gondii. At 3, 4, 5, and 6 weeks after infection, the number of T. gondii in the brain tissue of each mouse was measured by quantitative competitive-polymerase chain reaction (QC-PCR) targeting the surface antigen (SAG) 1 gene. Immunization with rT.g.HSP70-full length or rT.g.HSP70-carboxy-terminal region increased the number of T.gondii in the brain tissue after T. gondii infection, whereas immunization with rT.g.HSP70-NH2-terminal region did not. These results suggest that T.g.HSP70-carboxy-terminal region as well as T.g.HSP70-full length may induce deleterious effects on the protective immunity of mice infected with a cyst-forming T. gondii strain, Fukaya. PMID:10905074

Assay for the transbilayer distribution of glycolipids. Selective oxidation of glucosylceramide to glucuronylceramide by TEMPO nitroxyl radicals.

PubMed

Sillence, D J; Raggers, R J; Neville, D C; Harvey, D J; van Meer, G

2000-08-01

In the present study, 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinooxy nitroxide (TEMPO) has been applied successfully to discriminate between glucosylceramide in the outer and inner leaflets of closed membrane bilayers. The nitroxyl radicals TEMPO and carboxy-TEMPO, once oxidized to nitrosonium ions, are capable of oxidizing residues that contain primary hydroxyl and amino groups. When applied to radiolabeled glucosylceramide in liposomes, oxidation with TEMPO led to an oxidized product that was easily separated from the original lipid by thin-layer chromatography, and that was identified by mass spectrometric analysis as the corresponding acid glucuronylceramide. To test whether oxidation was confined to the external leaflet, TEMPO was applied to large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) consisting of egg phosphatidylcholine- egg phosphatidylethanolamine;-cholesterol 55:5:40 (mol/mol). TEMPO oxidized most radiolabeled phosphatidylethanolamine, whereas carboxy-TEMPO oxidized only half. Hydrolysis by phospholipase A(2) confirmed that 50% of the phosphatidylethanolamine was accessible in the external bilayer leaflet, suggesting that TEMPO penetrated the lipid bilayer and carboxy-TEMPO did not. When applied to LUVs containing <1 mol% radiolabeled glucosylceramide or short-chain C(6)-glucosylceramide, carboxy-TEMPO oxidized half the glucosylceramide. However, if surface C(6)-glucosylceramide was first depleted by bovine serum albumin (BSA) (extracting 49 +/- 1%), 94% of the remaining C(6)-glucosylceramide was resistant to oxidation. Carboxy-TEMPO oxidized glucosylceramide on the surface of LUVs without affecting inner leaflet glucosylceramide. At pH 9.5 and at 0 degrees C, the reaction reached completion by 20 min.

COACTIVATOR ACTIVATOR (CoAA) PREVENTS THE TRANSCRIPTIONAL ACTIVITY OF RUNT DOMAIN TRANSCRIPTION FACTORS

PubMed Central

Li, Xiaodong; Hoeppner, Luke H.; Jensen, Eric D.; Gopalakrishnan, Rajaram; Westendorf, Jennifer J.

2013-01-01

Runx proteins are essential for a number of developmental processes and are aberrantly expressed in many human cancers. Runx factors bind DNA and co-factors to activate or repress genes crucial for bone formation, hematopoiesis, and neuronal development. Co-activator activator (CoAA) is a nuclear protein that regulates gene expression, RNA splicing and is overexpressed in many human tumors. In this study, we identified CoAA as a Runx2 binding protein. CoAA repressed Runx factor-dependent activation of reporter genes in a histone deacetylase-independent manner. CoAA also blocked Runx2-mediated repression of the Axin2 promoter, a novel Runx target gene. The carboxy-terminus of CoAA is essential for binding the Runt domains of Runx1 and Runx2. In electophoretic mobility shift assays, CoAA inhibited Runx2 interactions with DNA. These data indicate that CoAA is an inhibitor of Runx factors and can negate Runx factor regulation of gene expression. CoAA is expressed at high levels in human fetal osteoblasts and osteosarcoma cell lines. Suppression of CoAA expression by RNA interference reduced osteosarcoma cell viability in vitro, suggesting that it contributes to the proliferation and/or survival of osteoblast lineage cells. PMID:19585539

The SH2 and SH3 domains of mammalian Grb2 couple the EGF receptor to the Ras activator mSos1.

PubMed

Rozakis-Adcock, M; Fernley, R; Wade, J; Pawson, T; Bowtell, D

1993-05-06

Many tyrosine kinases, including the receptors for hormones such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), nerve growth factor and insulin, transmit intracellular signals through Ras proteins. Ligand binding to such receptors stimulates Ras guanine-nucleotide-exchange activity and increases the level of GTP-bound Ras, suggesting that these tyrosine kinases may activate a guanine-nucleotide releasing protein (GNRP). In Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila, genetic studies have shown that Ras activation by tyrosine kinases requires the protein Sem-5/drk, which contains a single Src-homology (SH) 2 domain and two flanking SH3 domains. Sem-5 is homologous to the mammalian protein Grb2, which binds the autophosphorylated EGF receptor and other phosphotyrosine-containing proteins such as Shc through its SH2 domain. Here we show that in rodent fibroblasts, the SH3 domains of Grb2 are bound to the proline-rich carboxy-terminal tail of mSos1, a protein homologous to Drosophila Sos. Sos is required for Ras signalling and contains a central domain related to known Ras-GNRPs. EGF stimulation induces binding of the Grb2-mSos1 complex to the autophosphorylated EGF receptor, and mSos1 phosphorylation. Grb2 therefore appears to link tyrosine kinases to a Ras-GNRP in mammalian cells.

Synergistic regulation of competence development in Bacillus subtilis by two Rap-Phr systems.

PubMed

Bongiorni, Cristina; Ishikawa, Shu; Stephenson, Sophie; Ogasawara, Naotake; Perego, Marta

2005-07-01

The 11 Rap proteins of Bacillus subtilis comprise a conserved family of tetratricopeptide (TPR)-containing regulatory proteins. Their activity is inhibited by specific Phr pentapeptides produced from the product of phr genes through an export-import maturation process. We found that one of the proteins, namely RapF, is involved in the regulation of competence to DNA transformation. The ComA response regulator and transcription factor for initiation of competence development is the target of RapF. Specific binding of RapF to the carboxy-terminal DNA-binding domain of ComA inhibits the response regulator's ability to bind its target DNA promoters. The PhrF C-terminal pentapeptide, QRGMI, inhibits RapF activity. The activity of RapF and PhrF in regulating competence development is analogous to the previously described activity of RapC and PhrC (L. J. Core and M. Perego, Mol. Microbiol. 49:1509-1522, 2003). In fact, the RapF and PhrF pair of proteins acts synergistically with RapC and PhrC in the overall regulation of the ComA transcription factor. Since the transcription of the RapC- and RapF-encoding genes is positively regulated by their own target ComA, an autoregulatory circuit must exist for the competence transcription factor in order to modulate its activity.

Structural basis for nuclear import complex dissociation by RanGTP.

PubMed

Lee, Soo Jae; Matsuura, Yoshiyuki; Liu, Sai Man; Stewart, Murray

2005-06-02

Nuclear protein import is mediated mainly by the transport factor importin-beta that binds cytoplasmic cargo, most often via the importin-alpha adaptor, and then transports it through nuclear pore complexes. This active transport is driven by disassembly of the import complex by nuclear RanGTP. The switch I and II loops of Ran change conformation with nucleotide state, and regulate its interactions with nuclear trafficking components. Importin-beta consists of 19 HEAT repeats that are based on a pair of antiparallel alpha-helices (referred to as the A- and B-helices). The HEAT repeats stack to yield two C-shaped arches, linked together to form a helicoidal molecule that has considerable conformational flexibility. Here we present the structure of full-length yeast importin-beta (Kap95p or karyopherin-beta) complexed with RanGTP, which provides a basis for understanding the crucial cargo-release step of nuclear import. We identify a key interaction site where the RanGTP switch I loop binds to the carboxy-terminal arch of Kap95p. This interaction produces a change in helicoidal pitch that locks Kap95p in a conformation that cannot bind importin-alpha or cargo. We suggest an allosteric mechanism for nuclear import complex disassembly by RanGTP.

Cognitive Impairment and Brain and Peripheral Alterations in a Murine Model of Intraventricular Hemorrhage in the Preterm Newborn.

PubMed

Segado-Arenas, Antonio; Infante-Garcia, Carmen; Benavente-Fernandez, Isabel; Sanchez-Sotano, Daniel; Ramos-Rodriguez, Juan Jose; Alonso-Ojembarrena, Almudena; Lubian-Lopez, Simon; Garcia-Alloza, Monica

2018-06-01

Germinal matrix hemorrhage-intraventricular hemorrhage (GMH-IVH) remains a serious complication in the preterm newborn. The significant increase of survival rates in extremelye preterm newborns has also contributed to increase the absolute number of patients developing GMH-IVH. However, there are relatively few available animal models to understand the underlying mechanisms and peripheral markers or prognostic tools. In order to further characterize central complications and evolution of GMH-IVH, we injected collagenase intraventricularly to P7 CD1 mice and assessed them in the short (P14) and the long term (P70). Early complications at P14 included ventricle enlargement, increased bleeding, and inflammation. These alterations were maintained at P70, when increased tau phosphorylation and decreased neurogenesis were also observed, resulting in impaired learning and memory in these early adult mice. We additionally analyzed peripheral blood biomarkers in both our mouse model and preterm newborns with GMH-IVH. While MMP9 levels were not significantly altered in mice or newborns, reduced gelsolin levels and increased ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 and tau levels were detected in GMH-IVH patients at birth. A similar profile was observed in our mouse model after hemorrhage. Interestingly, early changes in gelsolin and carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 levels significantly correlated with the hemorrhage grade in newborns. Altogether, our data support the utility of this animal model to reproduce the central complications and peripheral changes observed in the clinic, and support the consideration of gelsolin, carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1, and tau as feasible biomarkers to predict the development of GMH-IVH.

Ets-1 interacts through a similar binding interface with Ku70 and Poly (ADP-Ribose) Polymerase-1.

PubMed

Choul-Li, Souhaila; Legrand, Arnaud J; Vicogne, Dorothée; Villeret, Vincent; Aumercier, Marc

2018-06-18

The Ets-1 transcription factor plays an important role in various physiological and pathological processes. These diverse roles of Ets-1 are likely to depend on its interaction proteins. We have previously showed that Ets-1 interacted with DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) complex including its regulatory subunits, Ku70 and Ku86 and with poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1). In this study, the binding domains for the interaction between Ets-1 and these proteins were reported. We demonstrated that the interaction of Ets-1 with DNA-PK was mediated through the Ku70 subunit and was mapped to the C-terminal region of Ets-1 and the C-terminal part of Ku70 including SAP domain. The interactive domains between Ets-1 and PARP-1 have been mapped to the C-terminal region of Ets-1 and the BRCA1 carboxy-terminal (BRCT) domain of PARP-1. The results presented in this study may advance our understanding of the functional link between Ets-1 and its interaction partners, DNA-PK and PARP-1.

XMAP215 is a microtubule nucleation factor that functions synergistically with the γ-tubulin ring complex.

PubMed

Thawani, Akanksha; Kadzik, Rachel S; Petry, Sabine

2018-05-01

How microtubules (MTs) are generated in the cell is a major question in understanding how the cytoskeleton is assembled. For several decades, γ-tubulin has been accepted as the universal MT nucleator of the cell. Although there is evidence that γ-tubulin complexes are not the sole MT nucleators, identification of other nucleation factors has proven difficult. Here, we report that the well-characterized MT polymerase XMAP215 (chTOG/Msps/Stu2p/Alp14/Dis1 homologue) is essential for MT nucleation in Xenopus egg extracts. The concentration of XMAP215 determines the extent of MT nucleation. Even though XMAP215 and the γ-tubulin ring complex (γ-TuRC) possess minimal nucleation activity individually, together, these factors synergistically stimulate MT nucleation in vitro. The amino-terminal TOG domains 1-5 of XMAP215 bind to αβ-tubulin and promote MT polymerization, whereas the conserved carboxy terminus is required for efficient MT nucleation and directly binds to γ-tubulin. In summary, XMAP215 and γ-TuRC together function as the principal nucleation module that generates MTs in cells.

The HIP1 initiator element plays a role in determining the in vitro requirement of the dihydrofolate reductase gene promoter for the C-terminal domain of RNA polymerase II.

PubMed

Buermeyer, A B; Thompson, N E; Strasheim, L A; Burgess, R R; Farnham, P J

1992-05-01

We examined the ability of purified RNA polymerase (RNAP) II lacking the carboxy-terminal heptapeptide repeat domain (CTD), called RNAP IIB, to transcribe a variety of promoters in HeLa extracts in which endogenous RNAP II activity was inhibited with anti-CTD monoclonal antibodies. Not all promoters were efficiently transcribed by RNAP IIB, and transcription did not correlate with the in vitro strength of the promoter or with the presence of a consensus TATA box. This was best illustrated by the GC-rich, non-TATA box promoters of the bidirectional dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR)-REP-encoding locus. Whereas the REP promoter was transcribed by RNAP IIB, the DHFR promoter remained inactive after addition of RNAP IIB to the antibody-inhibited reactions. However, both promoters were efficiently transcribed when purified RNAP with an intact CTD was added. We analyzed a series of promoter deletions to identify which cis elements determine the requirement for the CTD of RNAP II. All of the promoter deletions of both DHFR and REP retained the characteristics of their respective full-length promoters, suggesting that the information necessary to specify the requirement for the CTD is contained within approximately 65 bp near the initiation site. Furthermore, a synthetic minimal promoter of DHFR, consisting of a single binding site for Sp1 and a binding site for the HIP1 initiator cloned into a bacterial vector sequence, required RNAP II with an intact CTD for activity in vitro. Since the synthetic minimal promoter of DHFR and the smallest REP promoter deletion are both activated by Sp1, the differential response in this assay does not result from upstream activators. However, the sequences around the start sites of DHFR and REP are not similar and our data suggest that they bind different proteins. Therefore, we propose that specific initiator elements are important for determination of the requirement of some promoters for the CTD.

A two-step mechanism for epigenetic specification of centromere identity and function

PubMed Central

Fachinetti, Daniele; Folco, H. Diego; Nechemia-Arbely, Yael; Valente, Luis P.; Nguyen, Kristen; Wong, Alex J.; Zhu, Quan; Holland, Andrew J.; Desai, Arshad; Jansen, Lars E.T.; Cleveland, Don W.

2015-01-01

Summary The basic determinant of chromosome inheritance, the centromere, is specified in many eukaryotes by an epigenetic mark. Using gene targeting in human cells and fission yeast, chromatin containing the centromere-specific histone H3 variant CENP-A is demonstrated to be the epigenetic mark that acts through a two-step mechanism to identify, maintain and propagate centromere function indefinitely. Initially, centromere position is replicated and maintained by chromatin assembled with the centromere-targeting domain (CATD) of CENP-A substituted into H3. Subsequently, nucleation of kinetochore assembly onto CATD-containing chromatin is shown to require either CENP-A’s amino- or carboxy-terminal tails for recruitment of inner kinetochore proteins, including stabilizing CENP-B binding to human centromeres or direct recruitment of CENP-C, respectively. PMID:23873148

A two-step mechanism for epigenetic specification of centromere identity and function.

PubMed

Fachinetti, Daniele; Folco, H Diego; Nechemia-Arbely, Yael; Valente, Luis P; Nguyen, Kristen; Wong, Alex J; Zhu, Quan; Holland, Andrew J; Desai, Arshad; Jansen, Lars E T; Cleveland, Don W

2013-09-01

The basic determinant of chromosome inheritance, the centromere, is specified in many eukaryotes by an epigenetic mark. Using gene targeting in human cells and fission yeast, chromatin containing the centromere-specific histone H3 variant CENP-A is demonstrated to be the epigenetic mark that acts through a two-step mechanism to identify, maintain and propagate centromere function indefinitely. Initially, centromere position is replicated and maintained by chromatin assembled with the centromere-targeting domain (CATD) of CENP-A substituted into H3. Subsequently, nucleation of kinetochore assembly onto CATD-containing chromatin is shown to require either the amino- or carboxy-terminal tail of CENP-A for recruitment of inner kinetochore proteins, including stabilizing CENP-B binding to human centromeres or direct recruitment of CENP-C, respectively.

An intact SAM-dependent methyltransferase fold is encoded by the human endothelin-converting enzyme-2 gene

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tempel, W.; Wu, H.; Dombrovsky, L.

2010-08-17

A recent survey of protein expression patterns in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) has identified ece2 (chromosome: 3; Locations: 3q27.1) as the most significantly downregulated gene within the tested group. ece2 encodes endothelin-converting enzyme ECE2, a metalloprotease with a role in neuropeptide processing. Deficiency in the highly homologous ECE1 has earlier been linked to increased levels of AD-related {beta}-amyloid peptide in mice, consistent with a role for ECE in the degradation of that peptide. Initially, ECE2 was presumed to resemble ECE1, in that it comprises a single transmembrane region of {approx}20 residues flanked by a small amino-terminal cytosolic segment andmore » a carboxy-terminal lumenar peptidase domain. The carboxy-terminal domain has significant sequence similarity to both neutral endopeptidase, for which an X-ray structure has been determined, and Kell blood group protein. After their initial discovery, multiple isoforms of ECE1 and ECE2 were discovered, generated by alternative splicing of multiple exons. The originally described ece2 transcript, RefSeq NM{_}174046, contains the amino-terminal cytosolic portion followed by the transmembrane region and peptidase domain (Fig. 1, isoform B). Another ece2 transcript, available from the Mammalian Gene Collection under MGC2408 (Fig. 1, isoform C), RefSeq accession NM{_}032331, is predicted to be translated into a 255 residue peptide with low but detectable sequence similarity to known S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM)-dependent methyltransferases (SAM-MTs), such as the hypothetical protein TT1324 from Thermus thermophilis, PDB code 2GS9, which shares 30% amino acid sequence identity with ECE2 over 138 residues of the sequence. Intriguingly, another 'elongated' ece2 transcript (Fig. 1, isoform A) (RefSeq NM{_}014693) contains an amino-terminal portion of the putative SAM-MT domain, the transmembrane domain, and the protease domain. This suggests the possibility for coexistence of the putative SAM-MT and protease domains in a single polypeptide and their transmembrane interplay. Although sequence conservation across the SAM-MT family is weak, the structural fold is highly conserved. The most conserved part of this fold is the SAM-binding subdomain, which is shared between MGC2408 and hypothetical protein TT1324. Typically, the SAM-binding subdomain is flanked by a variable Nterminal extension and, at the C-terminus, by a substrate- binding subdomain, which varies enormously in size but preserves a conserved topology with three antiparallel b-strands. The 'elongated' transcript of ece2 lacks this substrate-binding subdomain. To test the hypothesis that the 255 residue ece2 gene product MGC2408 represents a complete SAM-MT fold, we have determined a crystal structure of this protein in the presence of SAH.« less

CD2v Interacts with Adaptor Protein AP-1 during African Swine Fever Infection

PubMed Central

Pérez-Núñez, Daniel; García-Urdiales, Eduardo; Martínez-Bonet, Marta; Nogal, María L.; Barroso, Susana; Revilla, Yolanda; Madrid, Ricardo

2015-01-01

African swine fever virus (ASFV) CD2v protein is believed to be involved in virulence enhancement, viral hemadsorption, and pathogenesis, although the molecular mechanisms of the function of this viral protein are still not fully understood. Here we describe that CD2v localized around viral factories during ASFV infection, suggesting a role in the generation and/or dynamics of these viral structures and hence in disturbing cellular traffic. We show that CD2v targeted the regulatory trans-Golgi network (TGN) protein complex AP-1, a key element in cellular traffic. This interaction was disrupted by brefeldin A even though the location of CD2v around the viral factory remained unchanged. CD2v-AP-1 binding was independent of CD2v glycosylation and occurred on the carboxy-terminal part of CD2v, where a canonical di-Leu motif previously reported to mediate AP-1 binding in eukaryotic cells, was identified. This motif was shown to be functionally interchangeable with the di-Leu motif present in HIV-Nef protein in an AP-1 binding assay. However, we demonstrated that it was not involved either in CD2v cellular distribution or in CD2v-AP-1 binding. Taken together, these findings shed light on CD2v function during ASFV infection by identifying AP-1 as a cellular factor targeted by CD2v and hence elucidate the cellular pathways used by the virus to enhance infectivity. PMID:25915900

CD2v Interacts with Adaptor Protein AP-1 during African Swine Fever Infection.

PubMed

Pérez-Núñez, Daniel; García-Urdiales, Eduardo; Martínez-Bonet, Marta; Nogal, María L; Barroso, Susana; Revilla, Yolanda; Madrid, Ricardo

2015-01-01

African swine fever virus (ASFV) CD2v protein is believed to be involved in virulence enhancement, viral hemadsorption, and pathogenesis, although the molecular mechanisms of the function of this viral protein are still not fully understood. Here we describe that CD2v localized around viral factories during ASFV infection, suggesting a role in the generation and/or dynamics of these viral structures and hence in disturbing cellular traffic. We show that CD2v targeted the regulatory trans-Golgi network (TGN) protein complex AP-1, a key element in cellular traffic. This interaction was disrupted by brefeldin A even though the location of CD2v around the viral factory remained unchanged. CD2v-AP-1 binding was independent of CD2v glycosylation and occurred on the carboxy-terminal part of CD2v, where a canonical di-Leu motif previously reported to mediate AP-1 binding in eukaryotic cells, was identified. This motif was shown to be functionally interchangeable with the di-Leu motif present in HIV-Nef protein in an AP-1 binding assay. However, we demonstrated that it was not involved either in CD2v cellular distribution or in CD2v-AP-1 binding. Taken together, these findings shed light on CD2v function during ASFV infection by identifying AP-1 as a cellular factor targeted by CD2v and hence elucidate the cellular pathways used by the virus to enhance infectivity.

Regulation of microtubule dynamic instability by the carboxy-terminal tail of β-tubulin

PubMed Central

Fees, Colby P; Moore, Jeffrey K

2018-01-01

Dynamic instability is an intrinsic property of microtubules; however, we do not understand what domains of αβ-tubulins regulate this activity or how these regulate microtubule networks in cells. Here, we define a role for the negatively charged carboxy-terminal tail (CTT) domain of β-tubulin in regulating dynamic instability. By combining in vitro studies with purified mammalian tubulin and in vivo studies with tubulin mutants in budding yeast, we demonstrate that β-tubulin CTT inhibits microtubule stability and regulates the structure and stability of microtubule plus ends. Tubulin that lacks β-tubulin CTT polymerizes faster and depolymerizes slower in vitro and forms microtubules that are more prone to catastrophe. The ends of these microtubules exhibit a more blunted morphology and rapidly switch to disassembly after tubulin depletion. In addition, we show that β-tubulin CTT is required for magnesium cations to promote depolymerization. We propose that β-tubulin CTT regulates the assembly of stable microtubule ends and provides a tunable mechanism to coordinate dynamic instability with ionic strength in the cell.

Reduction of calcium flux from the extracellular region and endoplasmic reticulum by amorphous nano-silica particles owing to carboxy group addition on their surface.

PubMed

Onodera, Akira; Yayama, Katsutoshi; Morosawa, Hideto; Ishii, Yukina; Tsutsumi, Yasuo; Kawai, Yuichi

2017-03-01

Several studies have reported that amorphous nano-silica particles (nano-SPs) modulate calcium flux, although the mechanism remains incompletely understood. We thus analyzed the relationship between calcium flux and particle surface properties and determined the calcium flux route. Treatment of Balb/c 3T3 fibroblasts with nano-SPs with a diameter of 70 nm (nSP70) increased cytosolic calcium concentration, but that with SPs with a diameter of 300 or 1000 nm did not. Surface modification of nSP70 with a carboxy group also did not modulate calcium flux. Pretreatment with a general calcium entry blocker almost completely suppressed calcium flux by nSP70. Preconditioning by emptying the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium stores slightly suppressed calcium flux by nSP70. These results indicate that nSP70 mainly modulates calcium flux across plasma membrane calcium channels, with subsequent activation of the ER calcium pump, and that the potential of calcium flux by nano-SPs is determined by the particle surface charge.

Role of functional groups on Aspergillus niger biomass in the detoxification of hexavalent chromium.

PubMed

Narvekar, Sneha; Vaidya, Varsha K

2009-10-01

Chromium (VI) contamination is not uncommon, especially near industries involved in leather tanning, chrome painting, metal cleaning and processing, wood preservation and alloy preparation. The mutagenic and carcinogenic properties of Chromium (VI) necessitate effective remedial processes. Difficulties associated with chemical and physical techniques to remediate a Chromium (VI) contaminated site to EPA recommended level (50 ppm), in addition to higher costs involved, assert the need for bioremedial measures. Biosorption can be one such solution to clean up heavy metal contamination. The objective of this study was to examine the main aspects of a possible strategy for the removal of Chromium (VI), employing Aspergillus niger biomass. The roles played by amines, carboxylic acids, phosphates, in Chromium (VI) biosorption were studied. Amino and the carboxy groups on the fungal cell wall play an important role in sorption. However, the role of carboxy group was far less than amino group. Surface adsorption of Chromium (VI) was also seen by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) thus indicating involvement of ion-exchange and surface adsorption mechanism in removal of Chromium (VI) ions.

A novel capture-ELISA for detection of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) based on c-myc peptide recognition in carboxy-terminally tagged recombinant neutrophil serine proteases.

PubMed

Lee, Augustine S; Finkielman, Javier D; Peikert, Tobias; Hummel, Amber M; Viss, Margaret A; Specks, Ulrich

2005-12-20

Testing for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) reacting with proteinase 3 (PR3) is part of the routine diagnostic evaluation of patients with small vessel vasculitis. For PR3-ANCA detection, capture ELISAs are reported to be superior to direct ELISAs. Standard capture ELISAs, in which PR3 is anchored by anti-PR3 monoclonal antibodies (moAB), have two potential disadvantages. First, the capturing moAB may compete for epitopes recognized by some PR3-ANCA, causing occasional false-negative results. Second, the capture of recombinant PR3 mutant molecules becomes unpredictable as modifications of specific conformational epitopes may not only affect the binding of PR3-ANCA, but also the affinity of the capturing anti-PR3 moAB. Here, we describe a new capture ELISA, and its application for PR3-ANCA detection. This new assay is based on the standardized capture of a variety of different carboxy-terminally c-myc tagged recombinant ANCA target antigens using anti-c-myc coated ELISA plates. Antigen used include c-myc tagged human rPR3 variants (mature and pro-form conformations), mouse mature rPR3 and human recombinant neutrophil elastase. This new anti-c-myc-capture ELISA for PR3-ANCA detection has an intra- and inter-assay coefficient of variation of 3.6% to 7.7%, and 15.8% to 18.4%, respectively. The analytical sensitivity and specificity for PR3-ANCA positive serum samples were 93% and 100%, respectively when rPR3 with mature conformation was used as target antigen, and 83% and 100% when the pro-enzyme conformation was employed. In conclusion, this new anti-c-myc capture ELISA compares favorably to our standard capture ELISA for PR3-ANCA detection, enables the unified capture of different ANCA target antigens through binding to a c-myc tag, and allows capture of rPR3 mutants necessary for PR3-ANCA epitope mapping studies.

Structural basis of mammalian glycan targeting by Vibrio cholerae cytolysin and biofilm proteins

PubMed Central

De, Swastik; Kaus, Katherine; Sinclair, Shada

2018-01-01

Vibrio cholerae is an aquatic gram-negative microbe responsible for cholera, a pandemic disease causing life-threatening diarrheal outbreaks in populations with limited access to health care. Like most pathogenic bacteria, V. cholerae secretes virulence factors to assist colonization of human hosts, several of which bind carbohydrate receptors found on cell-surfaces. Understanding how pathogenic virulence proteins specifically target host cells is important for the development of treatment strategies to fight bacterial infections. Vibrio cholerae cytolysin (VCC) is a secreted pore-forming toxin with a carboxy-terminal β-prism domain that targets complex N-glycans found on mammalian cell-surface proteins. To investigate glycan selectivity, we studied the VCC β-prism domain and two additional β-prism domains found within the V. cholerae biofilm matrix protein RbmC. We show that the two RbmC β-prism domains target a similar repertoire of complex N-glycan receptors as VCC and find through binding and modeling studies that a branched pentasaccharide core (GlcNAc2-Man3) represents the likely footprint interacting with these domains. To understand the structural basis of V. cholerae β-prism selectivity, we solved high-resolution crystal structures of fragments of the pentasaccharide core bound to one RbmC β-prism domain and conducted mutagenesis experiments on the VCC toxin. Our results highlight a common strategy for cell-targeting utilized by both toxin and biofilm matrix proteins in Vibrio cholerae and provide a structural framework for understanding the specificity for individual receptors. Our results suggest that a common strategy for disrupting carbohydrate interactions could affect multiple virulence factors produced by V. cholerae, as well as similar β-prism domains found in other vibrio pathogens. PMID:29432487

A single amino acid insertion in the WRKY domain of the Arabidopsis TIR-NBS-LRR-WRKY-type disease resistance protein SLH1 (sensitive to low humidity 1) causes activation of defense responses and hypersensitive cell death.

PubMed

Noutoshi, Yoshiteru; Ito, Takuya; Seki, Motoaki; Nakashita, Hideo; Yoshida, Shigeo; Marco, Yves; Shirasu, Ken; Shinozaki, Kazuo

2005-09-01

In this study we characterized the sensitive to low humidity 1 (slh1) mutant of Arabidopsis ecotype No-0 which exhibits normal growth on agar plate medium but which on transfer to soil shows growth arrest and development of necrotic lesions. cDNA microarray hybridization and RNA gel blot analysis revealed that genes associated with activation of disease resistance were upregulated in the slh1 mutants in response to conditions of low humidity. Furthermore, the slh1 mutants accumulate callose, autofluorescent compounds and salicylic acid (SA). We demonstrate that SA is required for the slh1 phenotype but not PAD4 or NPR1. SLH1 was isolated by map-based cloning and it encodes a resistance (R)-like protein consisting of a domain with Toll and interleukin-1 receptor homology (TIR), a nucleotide-binding domain (NB), leucine-rich repeats (LRR) and a carboxy-terminal WRKY domain. SLH1 is identical to the R gene RRS1-R of the Arabidopsis ecotype Nd-1, a gene which confers resistance to the bacterial pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum GMI1000 and also functions as an R gene to this pathogen in No-0. We identified a 3 bp insertion mutation in slh1 that results in the addition of a single amino acid in the WRKY domain; thereby impairing its DNA-binding activity. Our data suggest that SLH1 disease resistance signaling may be negatively regulated by its WRKY domain in the R protein and that the constitutive defense activation conferred by the slh1 mutation is inhibited by conditions of high humidity.

Transcription factor FOXA2-centered transcriptional regulation network in non-small cell lung cancer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jang, Sang-Min; An, Joo-Hee; Kim, Chul-Hong

2015-08-07

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-mediated death. Although various therapeutic approaches are used for lung cancer treatment, these mainly target the tumor suppressor p53 transcription factor, which is involved in apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. However, p53-targeted therapies have limited application in lung cancer, since p53 is found to be mutated in more than half of lung cancers. In this study, we propose tumor suppressor FOXA2 as an alternative target protein for therapies against lung cancer and reveal a possible FOXA2-centered transcriptional regulation network by identifying new target genes and binding partners of FOXA2 by using various screeningmore » techniques. The genes encoding Glu/Asp-rich carboxy-terminal domain 2 (CITED2), nuclear receptor subfamily 0, group B, member 2 (NR0B2), cell adhesion molecule 1 (CADM1) and BCL2-associated X protein (BAX) were identified as putative target genes of FOXA2. Additionally, the proteins including highly similar to heat shock protein HSP 90-beta (HSP90A), heat shock 70 kDa protein 1A variant (HSPA1A), histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) and HDAC3 were identified as novel interacting partners of FOXA2. Moreover, we showed that FOXA2-dependent promoter activation of BAX and p21 genes is significantly reduced via physical interactions between the identified binding partners and FOXA2. These results provide opportunities to understand the FOXA2-centered transcriptional regulation network and novel therapeutic targets to modulate this network in p53-deficient lung cancer. - Highlights: • Identification of new target genes of FOXA2. • Identifications of novel interaction proteins of FOXA2. • Construction of FOXA2-centered transcriptional regulatory network in non-small cell lung cancer.« less

Thiazolides inhibit growth and induce glutathione-S-transferase Pi (GSTP1)-dependent cell death in human colon cancer cells.

PubMed

Müller, Joachim; Sidler, Daniel; Nachbur, Ueli; Wastling, Jonathan; Brunner, Thomas; Hemphill, Andrew

2008-10-15

Thiazolides are a novel class of broad-spectrum anti-infective drugs with promising in vitro and in vivo activities against intracellular and extracellular protozoan parasites. The nitrothiazole-analogue nitazoxanide (NTZ; 2-acetolyloxy-N-(5-nitro 2-thiazolyl) benzamide) represents the thiazolide parent compound, and a number of bromo- and carboxy-derivatives with differing activities have been synthesized. Here we report that NTZ and the bromo-thiazolide RM4819, but not the carboxy-thiazolide RM4825, inhibited proliferation of the colon cancer cell line Caco2 and nontransformed human foreskin fibroblasts (HFF) at or below concentrations the compounds normally exhibit anti-parasitic activity. Thiazolides induced typical signs of apoptosis, such as nuclear condensation, DNA fragmentation and phosphatidylserine exposure. Interestingly, the apoptosis-inducing effect of thiazolides appeared to be cell cycle-dependent and induction of cell cycle arrest substantially inhibited the cell death-inducing activity of these compounds. Using affinity chromatography and mass spectrometry glutathione-S-transferase P1 (GSTP1) from the GST class Pi was identified as a major thiazolide-binding protein. GSTP1 expression was more than 10 times higher in the thiazolide-sensitive Caco2 cells than in the less sensitive HFF cells. The enzymatic activity of recombinant GSTP1 was strongly inhibited by thiazolides. Silencing of GSTP1 using siRNA rendered cells insensitive to RM4819, while overexpression of GSTP1 increased sensitivity to RM4819-induced cell death. Thiazolides may thus represent an interesting novel class of future cancer therapeutics.

The Contributions of the Amino and Carboxy Terminal Domains of Flightin to the Biomechanical Properties of Drosophila Flight Muscle Thick Filaments.

PubMed

Gasek, Nathan S; Nyland, Lori R; Vigoreaux, Jim O

2016-04-27

Flightin is a myosin binding protein present in Pancrustacea. In Drosophila, flightin is expressed in the indirect flight muscles (IFM), where it is required for the flexural rigidity, structural integrity, and length determination of thick filaments. Comparison of flightin sequences from multiple Drosophila species revealed a tripartite organization indicative of three functional domains subject to different evolutionary constraints. We use atomic force microscopy to investigate the functional roles of the N-terminal domain and the C-terminal domain that show different patterns of sequence conservation. Thick filaments containing a C-terminal domain truncated flightin (fln(ΔC44)) are significantly shorter (2.68 ± 0.06 μm; p < 0.005) than thick filaments containing a full length flightin (fln⁺; 3.21 ± 0.05 μm) and thick filaments containing an N-terminal domain truncated flightin (fln(ΔN62); 3.21 ± 0.06 μm). Persistence length was significantly reduced in fln(ΔN62) (418 ± 72 μm; p < 0.005) compared to fln⁺ (1386 ± 196μm) and fln(ΔC44)(1128 ± 193 μm). Statistical polymer chain analysis revealed that the C-terminal domain fulfills a secondary role in thick filament bending propensity. Our results indicate that the flightin amino and carboxy terminal domains make distinct contributions to thick filament biomechanics. We propose these distinct roles arise from the interplay between natural selection and sexual selection given IFM's dual role in flight and courtship behaviors.

The Contributions of the Amino and Carboxy Terminal Domains of Flightin to the Biomechanical Properties of Drosophila Flight Muscle Thick Filaments

PubMed Central

Gasek, Nathan S.; Nyland, Lori R.; Vigoreaux, Jim O.

2016-01-01

Flightin is a myosin binding protein present in Pancrustacea. In Drosophila, flightin is expressed in the indirect flight muscles (IFM), where it is required for the flexural rigidity, structural integrity, and length determination of thick filaments. Comparison of flightin sequences from multiple Drosophila species revealed a tripartite organization indicative of three functional domains subject to different evolutionary constraints. We use atomic force microscopy to investigate the functional roles of the N-terminal domain and the C-terminal domain that show different patterns of sequence conservation. Thick filaments containing a C-terminal domain truncated flightin (flnΔC44) are significantly shorter (2.68 ± 0.06 μm; p < 0.005) than thick filaments containing a full length flightin (fln+; 3.21 ± 0.05 μm) and thick filaments containing an N-terminal domain truncated flightin (flnΔN62; 3.21 ± 0.06 μm). Persistence length was significantly reduced in flnΔN62 (418 ± 72 μm; p < 0.005) compared to fln+ (1386 ± 196μm) and flnΔC44(1128 ± 193 μm). Statistical polymer chain analysis revealed that the C-terminal domain fulfills a secondary role in thick filament bending propensity. Our results indicate that the flightin amino and carboxy terminal domains make distinct contributions to thick filament biomechanics. We propose these distinct roles arise from the interplay between natural selection and sexual selection given IFM’s dual role in flight and courtship behaviors. PMID:27128952

Monoclonal antibodies and human sera directed to the secreted glycoprotein G of herpes simplex virus type 2 recognize type-specific antigenic determinants.

PubMed

Liljeqvist, Jan-Ake; Trybala, Edward; Hoebeke, Johan; Svennerholm, Bo; Bergström, Tomas

2002-01-01

Glycoprotein G-2 (gG-2) of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is cleaved to a secreted amino-terminal portion (sgG-2) and to a cell-associated carboxy-terminal portion which is further O-glycosylated to constitute the mature gG-2 (mgG-2). In contrast to mgG-2, which is known to elicit a type-specific antibody response in the human host, information on the immunogenic properties of sgG-2 is lacking. Here the sgG-2 protein was purified on a heparin column and used for production of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Four anti-sgG-2 mAbs were mapped using a Pepscan technique and identified linear epitopes which localized to the carboxy-terminal part of the protein. One additional anti-sgG-2 mAb, recognizing a non-linear epitope, was reactive to three discrete peptide stretches where the most carboxy-terminally located stretch was constituted by the amino acids (320)RRAL(323). Although sgG-2 is rapidly secreted into the cell-culture medium after infection, the anti-sgG-2 mAbs identified substantial amounts of sgG-2 in the cytoplasm of HSV-2-infected cells. All of the anti-sgG-2 mAbs were HSV-2 specific showing no cross-reactivity to HSV-1 antigen or to HSV-1-infected cells. Similarly, sera from 50 HSV-2 isolation positive patients were all reactive to sgG-2 in an enzyme immunoassay whilst no reactivity was seen in 25 sera from HSV-1 isolation positive patients or in 25 serum samples from HSV-negative patients suggesting that sgG-2 is a novel antigen potentially suitable for type-discriminating serodiagnosis.

Simultaneous determination of pirfenidone and its metabolite in human plasma by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry: application to a pharmacokinetic study.

PubMed

Wen, Yu-Guan; Liu, Xia; He, Xiu-Ling; Shang, De-Wei; Ni, Xiao-Jia; Zhang, Ming; Wang, Zhan-Zhang; Hu, Jin-Qing; Qiu, Chang

2014-01-01

A simple and rapid analytical method for the simultaneous determination of pirfenidone and its metabolite, 5-carboxy-pirfenidone, in human plasma using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry has been developed and validated. Aliquots of plasma (0.1 mL) containing pirfenidone and 5-carboxy-pirfenidone, as well as deuterium-labeled internal standards (ISs), were deproteinized using acetonitrile. An Agilent Zorbax Plus C18 column was used for the chromatography, with isocratic elution. The mobile phase was a mixture of acetonitrile and aqueous ammonium formate solution (5 mM) containing 0.1% formic acid (60 : 40, v/v). Using multiple reaction monitoring in positive ionization mode, transitions m/z 186.1 → 65.1, m/z 216.0 → 77.0, m/z 191.1 → 65.1 and m/z 221.0 → 81.0 were chosen to quantify pirfenidone, 5-carboxy-pirfenidone and the two ISs, respectively. The time of analysis was <3 min. The calibration curve was linear over the concentration ranges 0.005-25 μg/mL for pirfenidone, and 0.005-15 μg/mL for 5-carboxy-pirfenidone. The lower limit of quantification for both analytes was 0.005 μg/mL. The intra- and interday precision and relative errors in quality control samples were between -11.7 and 1.3% for pirfenidone and between -5.6 and 2.5% for 5-carboxy-pirfenidone, with mean recoveries ≥90%. The method that has been developed is easy to carry out, sensitive and rapid, and has been successfully used to investigate the pharmacokinetics of pirfenidone in healthy human volunteers. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Experimental study of the effect of drag reducing agent on pressure drop and thermal efficiency of an air cooler

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peyghambarzadeh, S. M.; Hashemabadi, S. H.; Saffarian, H.; Shekari, F.

2016-01-01

Effect of polymeric drag reduction agents (DRAs) on pressure drop and heat transfer was studied. Aqueous solutions of carboxy methyl cellulose were used inside an air-finned heat exchanger. Despite the previous studies which indicated the importance of drag reduction just in turbulent flow, results of this study in laminar flow indicated that the addition of DRA increases drag reduction, and decreases the overall heat transfer coefficient.

Importance of the GluN2B Carboxy-Terminal Domain for Enhancement of Social Memories

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jacobs, Stephanie; Wei, Wei; Wang, Deheng; Tsien, Joe Z.

2015-01-01

The N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor is known to be necessary for many forms of learning and memory, including social recognition memory. Additionally, the GluN2 subunits are known to modulate multiple forms of memory, with a high GluN2A:GluN2B ratio leading to impairments in long-term memory, while a low GluN2A:GluN2B ratio enhances some…

Conversion of D-hamamelose into 2-carboxy-D-arabinitol and 2-carboxy-D-arabinitol 1-phosphate in leaves of Phaseolus vulgaris L.

PubMed

Andralojc, P J; Keys, A J; Martindale, W; Dawson, G W; Parry, M A

1996-10-25

[1-14C]Hamamelose (2-hydroxymethyl-D-ribose) was synthesized by reaction of ribulose 5-phosphate with potassium [14C]cyanide, catalytic hydrogenation of the resulting cyanohydrin, and dephosphorylation of the product. Its identity was established by a chromatographic comparison with hamamelose isolated from the bark of witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana L.). Following vacuum infiltration of the [1-14C]hamamelose into leaf discs from Phaseolus vulgaris L., 14C-labeled 2carboxy-D-arabinitol (CA) and 2-carboxy-D-arabinitol 1-phosphate (CA1P) were formed, in the dark. Conversion of hamamelose to both CA and CA1P in the leaf discs was inhibited by dithiothreitol and sodium fluoride, although at high concentrations of these inhibitors conversion into CA was still evident when conversion into CA1P was totally inhibited. Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) leaves converted hamamelose into CA without formation of CA1P. Leaves from P. vulgaris contained 68 nmol.g-1 fresh weight of hamamelose in the light and 35 nmol.g-1 fresh weight in the dark. A pathway for the biosynthesis of CA1P from Calvin cycle intermediates is proposed which includes the sequence: hamamelose --> CA --> CA1P.

Isolated receptor binding domains of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 envelopes bind Glut-1 on activated CD4+ and CD8+ T cells

PubMed Central

Kinet, Sandrina; Swainson, Louise; Lavanya, Madakasira; Mongellaz, Cedric; Montel-Hagen, Amélie; Craveiro, Marco; Manel, Nicolas; Battini, Jean-Luc; Sitbon, Marc; Taylor, Naomi

2007-01-01

Background We previously identified the glucose transporter Glut-1, a member of the multimembrane-spanning facilitative nutrient transporter family, as a receptor for both HTLV-1 and HTLV-2. However, a recent report concluded that Glut-1 cannot serve as a receptor for HTLV-1 on CD4 T cells: This was based mainly on their inability to detect Glut-1 on this lymphocyte subset using the commercial antibody mAb1418. It was therefore of significant interest to thoroughly assess Glut-1 expression on CD4 and CD8 T cells, and its association with HTLV-1 and -2 envelope binding. Results As previously reported, ectopic expression of Glut-1 but not Glut-3 resulted in significantly augmented binding of tagged proteins harboring the receptor binding domains of either HTLV-1 or HTLV-2 envelope glycoproteins (H1RBD or H2RBD). Using antibodies raised against the carboxy-terminal peptide of Glut-1, we found that Glut-1 expression was significantly increased in both CD4 and CD8 cells following TCR stimulation. Corresponding increases in the binding of H1RBD as well as H2RBD, not detected on quiescent T cells, were observed following TCR engagement. Furthermore, increased Glut-1 expression was accompanied by a massive augmentation in glucose uptake in TCR-stimulated CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes. Finally, we determined that the apparent contradictory results obtained by Takenouchi et al were due to their monitoring of Glut-1 with a mAb that does not bind cells expressing endogenous Glut-1, including human erythrocytes that harbor 300,000 copies per cell. Conclusion Transfection of Glut-1 directly correlates with the capacities of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 envelope-derived ligands to bind cells. Moreover, Glut-1 is induced by TCR engagement, resulting in massive increases in glucose uptake and binding of HTLV-1 and -2 envelopes to both CD4 and CD8 T lymphocytes. Therefore, Glut-1 is a primary binding receptor for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 envelopes on activated CD4 as well as CD8 lymphocytes. PMID:17504522

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kolstoe, Simon E.; Jenvey, Michelle C.; Purvis, Alan

Serum amyloid P component is a pentameric plasma glycoprotein that recognizes and binds to amyloid fibres in a calcium-dependent fashion and is likely to contribute to their deposition and persistence in vivo. Five molecules of the drug CPHPC avidly cross-link pairs of protein pentamers and the decameric complex is rapidly cleared in vivo. Crystal structures of the protein in complex with a bivalent drug and cadmium ions, which improve crystal quality, allow the definition of the preferred bound drug isomers. Under physiological conditions, the pentameric human plasma protein serum amyloid P component (SAP) binds hexanoyl bis(d-proline) (R-1-(6-[R-2-carboxy-pyrrolidin-1-yl]-6-oxo-hexanoyl) pyrrolidine-2-carboxylic acid; CPHPC)more » through its d-proline head groups in a calcium-dependent interaction. Cooperative effects in binding lead to a substantial enhancement of affinity. Five molecules of the bivalent ligand cross-link and stabilize pairs of SAP molecules, forming a decameric complex that is rapidly cleared from the circulation by the liver. Here, it is reported that X-ray analysis of the SAP complex with CPHPC and cadmium ions provides higher resolution detail of the interaction than is observed with calcium ions. Conformational isomers of CPHPC observed in solution by HPLC and by X-ray analysis are compared with the protein-bound form. These are discussed in relation to the development of CPHPC to provide SAP depletion for the treatment of amyloidosis and other indications.« less

A genetic screen for terminator function in yeast identifies a role for a new functional domain in termination factor Nab3.

PubMed

Loya, Travis J; O'Rourke, Thomas W; Reines, Daniel

2012-08-01

The yeast IMD2 gene encodes an enzyme involved in GTP synthesis. Its expression is controlled by guanine nucleotides through a set of alternate start sites and an intervening transcriptional terminator. In the off state, transcription results in a short non-coding RNA that starts upstream of the gene. Transcription terminates via the Nrd1-Nab3-Sen1 complex and is degraded by the nuclear exosome. Using a sensitive terminator read-through assay, we identified trans-acting Terminator Override (TOV) genes that operate this terminator. Four genes were identified: the RNA polymerase II phosphatase SSU72, the RNA polymerase II binding protein PCF11, the TRAMP subunit TRF4 and the hnRNP-like, NAB3. The TOV phenotype can be explained by the loss of function of these gene products as described in models in which termination and RNA degradation are coupled to the phosphorylation state of RNA polymerase II's repeat domain. The most interesting mutations were those found in NAB3, which led to the finding that the removal of merely three carboxy-terminal amino acids compromised Nab3's function. This region of previously unknown function is distant from the protein's well-known RNA binding and Nrd1 binding domains. Structural homology modeling suggests this Nab3 'tail' forms an α-helical multimerization domain that helps assemble it onto an RNA substrate.

Synergistic Regulation of Competence Development in Bacillus subtilis by Two Rap-Phr Systems† ‡

PubMed Central

Bongiorni, Cristina; Ishikawa, Shu; Stephenson, Sophie; Ogasawara, Naotake; Perego, Marta

2005-01-01

The 11 Rap proteins of Bacillus subtilis comprise a conserved family of tetratricopeptide (TPR)-containing regulatory proteins. Their activity is inhibited by specific Phr pentapeptides produced from the product of phr genes through an export-import maturation process. We found that one of the proteins, namely RapF, is involved in the regulation of competence to DNA transformation. The ComA response regulator and transcription factor for initiation of competence development is the target of RapF. Specific binding of RapF to the carboxy-terminal DNA-binding domain of ComA inhibits the response regulator's ability to bind its target DNA promoters. The PhrF C-terminal pentapeptide, QRGMI, inhibits RapF activity. The activity of RapF and PhrF in regulating competence development is analogous to the previously described activity of RapC and PhrC (L. J. Core and M. Perego, Mol. Microbiol. 49:1509-1522, 2003). In fact, the RapF and PhrF pair of proteins acts synergistically with RapC and PhrC in the overall regulation of the ComA transcription factor. Since the transcription of the RapC- and RapF-encoding genes is positively regulated by their own target ComA, an autoregulatory circuit must exist for the competence transcription factor in order to modulate its activity. PMID:15968044

The C-module-binding factor supports amplification of TRE5-A retrotransposons in the Dictyostelium discoideum genome.

PubMed

Bilzer, Annika; Dölz, Heike; Reinhardt, Alexander; Schmith, Anika; Siol, Oliver; Winckler, Thomas

2011-01-01

Retrotransposable elements are molecular parasites that have invaded the genomes of virtually all organisms. Although retrotransposons encode essential proteins to mediate their amplification, they also require assistance by host cell-encoded machineries that perform functions such as DNA transcription and repair. The retrotransposon TRE5-A of the social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum generates a notable amount of both sense and antisense RNAs, which are generated from element-internal promoters, located in the A module and the C module, respectively. We observed that TRE5-A retrotransposons depend on the C-module-binding factor (CbfA) to maintain high steady-state levels of TRE5-A transcripts and that CbfA supports the retrotransposition activity of TRE5-A elements. The carboxy-terminal domain of CbfA was found to be required and sufficient to mediate the accumulation of TRE5-A transcripts, but it did not support productive retrotransposition of TRE5-A. This result suggests different roles for CbfA protein domains in the regulation of TRE5-A retrotransposition frequency in D. discoideum cells. Although CbfA binds to the C module in vitro, the factor regulates neither C-module nor A-module promoter activity in vivo. We speculate that CbfA supports the amplification of TRE5-A retrotransposons by suppressing the expression of an as yet unidentified component of the cellular posttranscriptional gene silencing machinery.

Structural investigation of C4b-binding protein by molecular modeling: localization of putative binding sites.

PubMed

Villoutreix, B O; Härdig, Y; Wallqvist, A; Covell, D G; García de Frutos, P; Dahlbäck, B

1998-06-01

C4b-binding protein (C4BP) contributes to the regulation of the classical pathway of the complement system and plays an important role in blood coagulation. The main human C4BP isoform is composed of one beta-chain and seven alpha-chains essentially built from three and eight complement control protein (CCP) modules, respectively, followed by a nonrepeat carboxy-terminal region involved in polymerization of the chains. C4BP is known to interact with heparin, C4b, complement factor I, serum amyloid P component, streptococcal Arp and Sir proteins, and factor VIII/VIIIa via its alpha-chains and with protein S through its beta-chain. The principal aim of the present study was to localize regions of C4BP involved in the interaction with C4b, Arp, and heparin. For this purpose, a computer model of the 8 CCP modules of C4BP alpha-chain was constructed, taking into account data from previous electron microscopy (EM) studies. This structure was investigated in the context of known and/or new experimental data. Analysis of the alpha-chain model, together with monoclonal antibody studies and heparin binding experiments, suggests that a patch of positively charged residues, at the interface between the first and second CCP modules, plays an important role in the interaction between C4BP and C4b/Arp/Sir/heparin. Putative binding sites, secondary-structure prediction for the central core, and an overall reevaluation of the size of the C4BP molecule are also presented. An understanding of these intermolecular interactions should contribute to the rational design of potential therapeutic agents aiming at interfering specifically some of these protein-protein interactions.

Smad2-dependent glycosaminoglycan elongation in aortic valve interstitial cells enhances binding of LDL to proteoglycans.

PubMed

Osman, Narin; Grande-Allen, K Jane; Ballinger, Mandy L; Getachew, Robel; Marasco, Silvana; O'Brien, Kevin D; Little, Peter J

2013-01-01

Calcific aortic valve disease is a progressive condition that shares some common pathogenic features with atherosclerosis. Transforming growth factor-β1 is a recognized mediator of atherosclerosis and is expressed in aortic valve lesions. Transforming growth factorβ1 stimulates glycosaminoglycan elongation of proteoglycans that is associated with increased lipid binding. We investigated the presence of transforming growth factor-β1 and downstream signaling intermediates in diseased human aortic valves and the effects of activated transforming growth factor-β1 receptor signaling on aortic valve interstitial cell proteoglycan synthesis and lipid binding as a possible mechanism for the initiation of the early lesion of calcific aortic valve disease. Diseased human aortic valve leaflets demonstrated strong immunohistochemical staining for transforming growth factor-β1 and phosphorylated Smad2/3. In primary porcine aortic valve interstitial cells, Western blots showed that transforming growth factor-β1 stimulated phosphorylation in both the carboxy and linker regions of Smad2/3, which was inhibited by the transforming growth factor-β1 receptor inhibitor SB431542. Gel electrophoresis and size exclusion chromatography demonstrated that SB431542 decreased transforming growth factor-β1-mediated [(35)S]-sulfate incorporation into proteoglycans in a dose-dependent manner. Further, in proteoglycans derived from transforming growth factor-β1-treated valve interstitial cells, gel mobility shift assays demonstrated that inhibition of transforming growth factor-β1 receptor signaling resulted in decreased lipid binding. Classic transforming growth factor-β1 signaling is present in human aortic valves in vivo and contributes to the modification of proteoglycans expressed by valve interstitial cells in vitro. These findings suggest that transforming growth factor-β1 may promote increased low-density lipoprotein binding in the early phases of calcific aortic valve disease. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Amino Acids 270 to 510 of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Spike Protein Are Required for Interaction with Receptor

PubMed Central

Babcock, Gregory J.; Esshaki, Diana J.; Thomas, William D.; Ambrosino, Donna M.

2004-01-01

A novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), has recently been identified as the causative agent of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). SARS-CoV appears similar to other coronaviruses in both virion structure and genome organization. It is known for other coronaviruses that the spike (S) glycoprotein is required for both viral attachment to permissive cells and for fusion of the viral envelope with the host cell membrane. Here we describe the construction and expression of a soluble codon-optimized SARS-CoV S glycoprotein comprising the first 1,190 amino acids of the native S glycoprotein (S1190). The codon-optimized and native S glycoproteins exhibit similar molecular weight as determined by Western blot analysis, indicating that synthetic S glycoprotein is modified correctly in a mammalian expression system. S1190 binds to the surface of Vero E6 cells, a cell permissive to infection, as demonstrated by fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis, suggesting that S1190 maintains the biologic activity present in native S glycoprotein. This interaction is blocked with serum obtained from recovering SARS patients, indicating that the binding is specific. In an effort to map the ligand-binding domain of the SARS-CoV S glycoprotein, carboxy- and amino-terminal truncations of the S1190 glycoprotein were constructed. Amino acids 270 to 510 were the minimal receptor-binding region of the SARS-CoV S glycoprotein as determined by flow cytometry. We speculate that amino acids 1 to 510 of the SARS-CoV S glycoprotein represent a unique domain containing the receptor-binding site (amino acids 270 to 510), analogous to the S1 subunit of other coronavirus S glycoproteins. PMID:15078936

Extra-epitopic hepatitis C virus polymorphisms confer resistance to broadly neutralizing antibodies by modulating binding to scavenger receptor B1.

PubMed

El-Diwany, Ramy; Cohen, Valerie J; Mankowski, Madeleine C; Wasilewski, Lisa N; Brady, Jillian K; Snider, Anna E; Osburn, William O; Murrell, Ben; Ray, Stuart C; Bailey, Justin R

2017-02-01

Broadly-neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (bNAbs) may guide vaccine development for highly variable viruses including hepatitis C virus (HCV), since they target conserved viral epitopes that could serve as vaccine antigens. However, HCV resistance to bNAbs could reduce the efficacy of a vaccine. HC33.4 and AR4A are two of the most potent anti-HCV human bNAbs characterized to date, binding to highly conserved epitopes near the amino- and carboxy-terminus of HCV envelope (E2) protein, respectively. Given their distinct epitopes, it was surprising that these bNAbs showed similar neutralization profiles across a panel of natural HCV isolates, suggesting that some viral polymorphisms may confer resistance to both bNAbs. To investigate this resistance, we developed a large, diverse panel of natural HCV envelope variants and a novel computational method to identify bNAb resistance polymorphisms in envelope proteins (E1 and E2). By measuring neutralization of a panel of HCV pseudoparticles by 10 μg/mL of each bNAb, we identified E1E2 variants with resistance to one or both bNAbs, despite 100% conservation of the AR4A binding epitope across the panel. We discovered polymorphisms outside of either binding epitope that modulate resistance to both bNAbs by altering E2 binding to the HCV co-receptor, scavenger receptor B1 (SR-B1). This study is focused on a mode of neutralization escape not addressed by conventional analysis of epitope conservation, highlighting the contribution of extra-epitopic polymorphisms to bNAb resistance and presenting a novel mechanism by which HCV might persist even in the face of an antibody response targeting multiple conserved epitopes.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rasmussen, Søren G.F.; DeVree, Brian T; Zou, Yaozhong

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are responsible for the majority of cellular responses to hormones and neurotransmitters as well as the senses of sight, olfaction and taste. The paradigm of GPCR signalling is the activation of a heterotrimeric GTP binding protein (G protein) by an agonist-occupied receptor. The β 2 adrenergic receptor (β 2AR) activation of Gs, the stimulatory G protein for adenylyl cyclase, has long been a model system for GPCR signalling. Here we present the crystal structure of the active state ternary complex composed of agonist-occupied monomeric β 2AR and nucleotide-free Gs heterotrimer. The principal interactions between the βmore » 2AR and Gs involve the amino- and carboxy-terminal α-helices of Gs, with conformational changes propagating to the nucleotide-binding pocket. The largest conformational changes in the β 2AR include a 14Å outward movement at the cytoplasmic end of transmembrane segment 6 (TM6) and an α-helical extension of the cytoplasmic end of TM5. The most surprising observation is a major displacement of the α-helical domain of Gαs relative to the Ras-like GTPase domain. This crystal structure represents the first high-resolution view of transmembrane signalling by a GPCR.« less

Synthesis and Characterization of High Energy Polymers.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-03-31

have been poly(cis-l ,4-butadiene), CTBN , and HTPB I=1s of nitrated and DD I JA 7 1473 EDITION OF I NOV 45 1& OBSOLETE SE1CURITY CLAIISIFI1 TIN Of...cis- butadiene), PB, carboxy-tenninated poly(butadiene-co-acrylonitrile), CTBN and hydroxy-terminated poly(butadiene), HTPB. For the nitration of...evaluation. Progress Report I. Nitration of Diene Polymers and Cgolymers A. Nitromercuration of Carboxy-terminated Butadiene Acrylonitrile Copolymer ( CTBN

Metabolism of dimethylphthalate by Micrococcus sp. strain 12B.

PubMed Central

Eaton, R W; Ribbons, D W

1982-01-01

During growth of Micrococcus sp. strain 12B with dimethylphthalate, 4-carboxy-2-hydroxymuconate lactone (CHML, X) and 3,4-dihydroxyphthalate-2-methyl ester (XI) were isolated from culture filtrates. CHML is the lactone of intermediate 4-carboxy-2-hydroxymuconate (IX). Accumulation of XI which is not a substrate for 3,4-dihydroxyphthalate-2-decarboxylase in strain 12B afforded an easy access to the preparation of 3,4-dihydroxyphthalate. PMID:7085569

Synthesis of chlorophyll-a derivatives possessing various amides as potential sensitizers for photovoltaic cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Yuxiao; Ogasawara, Shin; Tamiaki, Hitoshi

32-Carboxy-pyropheophorbides-a possessing a variety of N-substituted carbamoyl groups at the 172-position were prepared by modifying naturally occurring chlorophyll-a. 32-Methoxycarbonyl-pyropheophorbide-a was obtained via the protection of the 172-carboxy group with an allyl group, and amidated with various primary and secondary amines at the free 17-propionate residue, followed by the acidic hydrolysis of the methyl ester in the 3-substituent to give the desired pyropheophorbide-a secondary and tertiary amides, respectively, bearing the trans-32-COOH. The synthetic pigments potentially usable for dye-sensitized solar cells gave almost the same optical properties in a solution. 32-Carboxy-pyropheophorbide-a N-monosubstituted or N,N-disubstituted amides were prepared from chemical modification of chlorophyll-a, which are potentially promising as available and environmentally friendly pigments for dye-sensitized solar cells.

A density functional theory study on peptide bond cleavage at aspartic residues: direct vs cyclic intermediate hydrolysis.

PubMed

Sang-aroon, Wichien; Amornkitbamrung, Vittaya; Ruangpornvisuti, Vithaya

2013-12-01

In this work, peptide bond cleavages at carboxy- and amino-sides of the aspartic residue in a peptide model via direct (concerted and step-wise) and cyclic intermediate hydrolysis reaction pathways were explored computationally. The energetics, thermodynamic properties, rate constants, and equilibrium constants of all hydrolysis reactions, as well as their energy profiles were computed at the B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory. The result indicated that peptide bond cleavage of the Asp residue occurred most preferentially via the cyclic intermediate hydrolysis pathway. In all reaction pathways, cleavage of the peptide bond at the amino-side occurred less preferentially than at the carboxy-side. The overall reaction rate constants of peptide bond cleavage of the Asp residue at the carboxy-side for the assisted system were, in increasing order: concerted < step-wise < cyclic intermediate.

The Development of an Electrostatically Safe Lead Styphnate Composition and the Reproduction of Lead Styphnate Mixtures by Wet Processes

DTIC Science & Technology

1946-10-01

possible replacements of gelatin:- H) ivie-,hyl cellulose (2) Sodium carboxy-methyl cellulose (3) AlbaJin (4) Casein (5) Gum arabio (6) Rei...there is no adequate explanation as to why some proteins such as casein and albuaen are unsatisfactory for use in the graphiting process; they have...stage, the continued addition of gelatin sensitises the excess graphite sol. so that the charge on the micelle is reduced to such an extent that

The fanconi anemia proteins FANCA and FANCG stabilize each other and promote the nuclear accumulation of the Fanconi anemia complex.

PubMed

Garcia-Higuera, I; Kuang, Y; Denham, J; D'Andrea, A D

2000-11-01

Fanconi anemia (FA) is an autosomal recessive cancer susceptibility syndrome with 8 complementation groups. Four of the FA genes have been cloned, and at least 3 of the encoded proteins, FANCA, FANCC, and FANCG/XRCC9, interact in a multisubunit protein complex. The FANCG protein binds directly to the amino terminal nuclear localization sequence (NLS) of FANCA, suggesting that FANCG plays a role in regulating FANCA nuclear accumulation. In the current study the functional consequences of FANCG/FANCA binding were examined. Correction of an FA-G cell line with the FANCG complementary DNA (cDNA) resulted in FANCA/FANCG binding, prolongation of the cellular half-life of FANCA, and an increase in the nuclear accumulation of the FA protein complex. Similar results were obtained upon correction of an FA-A cell line, with a reciprocal increase in the half-life of FANCG. Patient-derived mutant forms of FANCA, containing an intact NLS sequence but point mutations in the carboxy-terminal leucine zipper region, bound FANCG in the cytoplasm. The mutant forms failed to translocate to the nucleus of transduced cells, thereby suggesting a model of coordinated binding and nuclear translocation. These results demonstrate that the FANCA/FANCG interaction is required to maintain the cellular levels of both proteins. Moreover, at least one function of FANCG and FANCA is to regulate the nuclear accumulation of the FA protein complex. Failure to accumulate the nuclear FA protein complex results in the characteristic spectrum of clinical and cellular abnormalities observed in FA.

Chemical-modification studies of a unique sialic acid-binding lectin from the snail Achatina fulica. Involvement of tryptophan and histidine residues in biological activity.

PubMed Central

Basu, S; Mandal, C; Allen, A K

1988-01-01

A unique sialic acid-binding lectin, achatininH (ATNH) was purified in single step from the haemolymph of the snail Achatina fulica by affinity chromatography on sheep submaxillary-gland mucin coupled to Sepharose 4B. The homogeneity was checked by alkaline gel electrophoresis, immunodiffusion and immunoelectrophoresis. Amino acid analysis showed that the lectin has a fairly high content of acidic amino acid residues (22% of the total). About 1.3% of the residues are half-cystine. The glycoprotein contains 21% carbohydrate. The unusually high content of xylose (6%) and fucose (2.7%) in this snail lectin is quite interesting. The protein was subjected to various chemical modifications in order to detect the amino acid residues and carbohydrate residues present in its binding sites. Modification of tyrosine and arginine residues did not affect the binding activity of ATNH; however, modification of tryptophan and histidine residues led to a complete loss of its biological activity. A marked decrease in the fluorescence emission was found as the tryptophan residues of ATNH were modified. The c.d. data showed the presence of an identical type of conformation in the native and modified agglutinin. The modification of lysine and carboxy residues partially diminished the biological activity. The activity was completely lost after a beta-elimination reaction, indicating that the sugars are O-glycosidically linked to the glycoprotein's protein moiety. This result confirms that the carbohydrate moiety also plays an important role in the agglutination property of this lectin. Images Fig. 3. PMID:3140796

Reduction of Blood Pressure by AT1 Receptor Decoy Peptides.

PubMed

Re, Richard N; Chen, Ben; Alam, Jawed; Cook, Julia L

2013-01-01

We previously identified the binding of the chaperone protein gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor-associated protein (GABARAP) to a sequence on the carboxy-terminus of the angiotensin II AT1 receptor (AT1R) and showed that this binding enhances AT1R trafficking to the cell surface as well as angiotensin signaling. In this study, we treated sodium-depleted mice with decoy peptides consisting either of a fusion of the cell-penetrating peptide penetratin and the GABARAP/AT1R binding sequence or penetratin fused to a mutated AT1R sequence. We used telemetry to measure blood pressure. Systolic and diastolic pressure fell during the 24 hours following decoy peptide injection but not after control peptide injection. Active cell-penetrating decoy peptide decreased 24-hour average systolic blood pressure from 129.8 ± 4.7 mmHg to 125.0 ± 6.0 mmHg (mean ± standard deviation). Diastolic blood pressure fell from 99.0 ± 7.1 mmHg to 95.0 ± 9.2 mmHg (n=5). Administration of the control peptide raised systolic blood pressure from 128.7 ± 1.3 mmHg to 131.7 ± 2.9 mmHg and diastolic pressure from 93.9 ± 4.5 mmHg to 95.9 ± 4.2 mmHg (n=5). The decreases in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure after active peptide administration were statistically significant compared to control peptide administration (P<0.05, two-tailed Wilcoxon rank-sum test). These results indicate the physiological and potentially therapeutic relevance of inhibitors of GABARAP/AT1R binding.

Synthesis of 5- and 6-Carboxy-X-rhodamines

PubMed Central

2008-01-01

An efficient route is reported to 5- and 6-carboxy-X-rhodamines (compounds 1 and 2) that contain multiple n-propylene or γ,γ-dimethylpropylene groups bridging terminal nitrogen atoms and the central xanthene core. Gram quantities of these dyes are synthesized from inexpensive starting materials. The isolated products are activated by selective transformation of the carboxylic acid group into N-hydroxysuccinimidyl esters in situ and then conjugated with an amino group of a molecule of interest. PMID:18837556

Effect of different additives on the persistence and insecticidal activity of native strains of Bacillus thuringiensis.

PubMed

Singh, A; Boora, K S; Chaudhary, K

2007-03-01

The persistence and insecticidal activity of native strains of Bacillus thuringiensis was evaluated in formulations containing different additives such as arrow-root powder, carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC), gum acacia, non-food grade (NFG) starch, and soluble starch. Persistence of B. thuringiensis varied with different additives used in the formulations. Among the different additives used, NFG starch provided maximum protection to B. thuringiensis and native strain 42 showed maximum persistence (83%) which was higher than that obtained in commercial formulation. In commercial formulation, the persistence of B. thuringiensis was 47% only after 3 d of spray. The feeding trials conducted on second instar larvae of H. armigera using leaves sprayed with NFG starch formulation revealed 70% larval mortality while commercial formulation showed 50% mortality during the same period.

In Vitro and in Vivo Characterization of MOD-4023, a Long-Acting Carboxy-Terminal Peptide (CTP)-Modified Human Growth Hormone.

PubMed

Hershkovitz, Oren; Bar-Ilan, Ahuva; Guy, Rachel; Felikman, Yana; Moschcovich, Laura; Hwa, Vivian; Rosenfeld, Ron G; Fima, Eyal; Hart, Gili

2016-02-01

MOD-4023 is a novel long-acting version of human growth hormone (hGH), containing the carboxy-terminal peptide (CTP) of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). MOD-4023 is being developed as a treatment for adults and children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD), which would require fewer injections than currently available GH formulations and thus reduce patient discomfort and increase compliance. This study characterizes MOD-4023's binding affinities for the growth hormone receptor, as well as the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics, toxicology, and safety profiles of repeated dosing of MOD-4023 in Sprague-Dawley rats and Rhesus monkeys. Although MOD-4023 exhibited reduced in vitro potency and lower affinity to the GH receptor than recombinant hGH (rhGH), administration of MOD-4023 every 5 days in rats and monkeys resulted in exposure comparable to daily rhGH, and the serum half-life of MOD-4023 was significantly longer. Repeated administration of MOD-4023 led to elevated levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and twice-weekly injections of MOD-4023 resulted in larger increase in weight gain with fewer injections and a lower accumulative hGH dose. Thus, the increased half-life of MOD-4023 in comparison to hGH may increase the frequency of protein-receptor interactions and compensate for its decreased in vitro potency. MOD-4023 was found to be well-tolerated in rats and monkeys, with minimal adverse events, suggesting an acceptable safety profile. These results provide a basis for the continued clinical development of MOD-4023 as a novel treatment of GHD in children and adults.

Acetylation at lysine 346 controls the transforming activity of the HTLV-1 Tax oncoprotein in the Rat-1 fibroblast model

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Transformation by the Tax oncoprotein of the human T cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is governed by actions on cellular regulatory signals, including modulation of specific cellular gene expression via activation of signaling pathways, acceleration of cell cycle progression via stimulation of cyclin-dependent kinase activity leading to retinoblastoma protein (pRb) hyperphosphorylation and perturbation of survival signals. These actions control early steps in T cell transformation and development of Adult T cell leukemia (ATL), an aggressive malignancy of HTLV-1 infected T lymphocytes. Post-translational modifications of Tax by phosphorylation, ubiquitination, sumoylation and acetylation have been implicated in Tax-mediated activation of the NF-κB pathway, a key function associated with Tax transforming potential. Results In this study, we demonstrate that acetylation at lysine K346 in the carboxy-terminal domain of Tax is modulated in the Tax nuclear bodies by the acetyltransferase p300 and the deacetylases HDAC5/7 and controls phosphorylation of the tumor suppressor pRb by Tax-cyclin D3-CDK4-p21CIP complexes. This property correlates with the inability of the acetylation deficient K346R mutant, but not the acetylation mimetic K346Q mutant, to promote anchorage-independent growth of Rat-1 fibroblasts. By contrast, acetylation at lysine K346 had no effects on the ability of Tax carboxy-terminal PDZ-binding domain to interact with the tumor suppressor hDLG. Conclusions The identification of the acetyltransferase p300 and the deacetylase HDAC7 as enzymes modulating Tax acetylation points to new therapeutic targets for the treatment of HTLV-1 infected patients at risk of developing ATL. PMID:23880157

Carbon Monoxide-releasing Molecule-3 (CORM-3; Ru(CO)3Cl(Glycinate)) as a Tool to Study the Concerted Effects of Carbon Monoxide and Nitric Oxide on Bacterial Flavohemoglobin Hmp

PubMed Central

Tinajero-Trejo, Mariana; Denby, Katie J.; Sedelnikova, Svetlana E.; Hassoubah, Shahira A.; Mann, Brian E.; Poole, Robert K.

2014-01-01

CO and NO are small toxic gaseous molecules that play pivotal roles in biology as gasotransmitters. During bacterial infection, NO, produced by the host via the inducible NO synthase, exerts critical antibacterial effects while CO, generated by heme oxygenases, enhances phagocytosis of macrophages. In Escherichia coli, other bacteria and fungi, the flavohemoglobin Hmp is the most important detoxification mechanism converting NO and O2 to the ion nitrate (NO3−). The protoheme of Hmp binds not only O2 and NO, but also CO so that this ligand is expected to be an inhibitor of NO detoxification in vivo and in vitro. CORM-3 (Ru(CO)3Cl(glycinate)) is a metal carbonyl compound extensively used and recently shown to have potent antibacterial properties. In this study, attenuation of the NO resistance of E. coli by CORM-3 is demonstrated in vivo. However, polarographic measurements showed that CO gas, but not CORM-3, produced inhibition of the NO detoxification activity of Hmp in vitro. Nevertheless, CO release from CORM-3 in the presence of soluble cellular compounds is demonstrated by formation of carboxy-Hmp. We show that the inability of CORM-3 to inhibit the activity of purified Hmp is due to slow release of CO in protein solutions alone i.e. when sodium dithionite, widely used in previous studies of CO release from CORM-3, is excluded. Finally, we measure intracellular CO released from CORM-3 by following the formation of carboxy-Hmp in respiring cells. CORM-3 is a tool to explore the concerted effects of CO and NO in vivo. PMID:25193663

NSP-CAS Protein Complexes: Emerging Signaling Modules in Cancer.

PubMed

Wallez, Yann; Mace, Peter D; Pasquale, Elena B; Riedl, Stefan J

2012-05-01

The CAS (CRK-associated substrate) family of adaptor proteins comprises 4 members, which share a conserved modular domain structure that enables multiple protein-protein interactions, leading to the assembly of intracellular signaling platforms. Besides their physiological role in signal transduction downstream of a variety of cell surface receptors, CAS proteins are also critical for oncogenic transformation and cancer cell malignancy through associations with a variety of regulatory proteins and downstream effectors. Among the regulatory partners, the 3 recently identified adaptor proteins constituting the NSP (novel SH2-containing protein) family avidly bind to the conserved carboxy-terminal focal adhesion-targeting (FAT) domain of CAS proteins. NSP proteins use an anomalous nucleotide exchange factor domain that lacks catalytic activity to form NSP-CAS signaling modules. Additionally, the NSP SH2 domain can link NSP-CAS signaling assemblies to tyrosine-phosphorylated cell surface receptors. NSP proteins can potentiate CAS function by affecting key CAS attributes such as expression levels, phosphorylation state, and subcellular localization, leading to effects on cell adhesion, migration, and invasion as well as cell growth. The consequences of these activities are well exemplified by the role that members of both families play in promoting breast cancer cell invasiveness and resistance to antiestrogens. In this review, we discuss the intriguing interplay between the NSP and CAS families, with a particular focus on cancer signaling networks.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yin, Zhiqi; Shi, Ke; Banerjee, Surajit

Integration of the reverse-transcribed viral DNA into the host genome is an essential step in the life cycle of retroviruses. Retrovirus integrase catalyses insertions of both ends of the linear viral DNA into a host chromosome. Integrase from HIV-1 and closely related retroviruses share the three-domain organization, consisting of a catalytic core domain flanked by amino- and carboxy-terminal domains essential for the concerted integration reaction. Although structures of the tetrameric integrase–DNA complexes have been reported for integrase from prototype foamy virus featuring an additional DNA-binding domain and longer interdomain linkers, the architecture of a canonical three-domain integrase bound to DNAmore » remained elusive. In this paper, we report a crystal structure of the three-domain integrase from Rous sarcoma virus in complex with viral and target DNAs. The structure shows an octameric assembly of integrase, in which a pair of integrase dimers engage viral DNA ends for catalysis while another pair of non-catalytic integrase dimers bridge between the two viral DNA molecules and help capture target DNA. The individual domains of the eight integrase molecules play varying roles to hold the complex together, making an extensive network of protein–DNA and protein–protein contacts that show both conserved and distinct features compared with those observed for prototype foamy virus integrase. Finally, our work highlights the diversity of retrovirus intasome assembly and provides insights into the mechanisms of integration by HIV-1 and related retroviruses.« less

Endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation of the mouse PC1/3-N222D hypomorph and human PCSK1 mutations contributes to obesity.

PubMed

Stijnen, P; Brouwers, B; Dirkx, E; Ramos-Molina, B; Van Lommel, L; Schuit, F; Thorrez, L; Declercq, J; Creemers, J W M

2016-06-01

The proprotein convertase 1/3 (PC1/3), encoded by proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 1 (PCSK1), cleaves and hence activates several orexigenic and anorexigenic proproteins. Congenital inactivation of PCSK1 leads to obesity in human but not in mice. However, a mouse model harboring the hypomorphic mutation N222D is obese. It is not clear why the mouse models differ in phenotype. Gene expression analysis was performed with pancreatic islets from Pcsk1(N222D/N222D) mice. Subsequently, biosynthesis, maturation, degradation and activity were studied in islets, pituitary, hypothalamus and cell lines. Coimmunoprecipitation of PC1/3-N222D and human PC1/3 variants associated with obesity with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperone BiP was studied in cell lines. Gene expression analysis of islets of Pcsk1(N222D/N222D) mice showed enrichment of gene sets related to the proteasome and the unfolded protein response. Steady-state levels of PC1/3-N222D and in particular the carboxy-terminally processed form were strongly reduced in islets, pituitary and hypothalamus. However, impairment of substrate cleavage was tissue dependent. Proinsulin processing was drastically reduced, while processing of proopiomelanocortin (POMC) to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in pituitary was only mildly impaired. Growth hormone expression and IGF-1 levels were normal, indicating near-normal processing of hypothalamic proGHRH. PC1/3-N222D binds to BiP and is rapidly degraded by the proteasome. Analysis of human PC1/3 obesity-associated mutations showed increased binding to BiP and prolonged intracellular retention for all investigated mutations, in particular for PC1/3-T175M, PC1/3-G226R and PC1/3-G593R. This study demonstrates that the hypomorphic mutation in Pcsk1(N222D) mice has an effect on catalytic activity in pancreatic islets, pituitary and hypothalamus. Reduced substrate processing activity in Pcsk1(N222D/N222D) mice is due to enhanced degradation in addition to reduced catalytic activity of the mutant. PC1/3-N222D binds to BiP, suggesting impaired folding and reduced stability. Enhanced BiP binding is also observed in several human obesity-associated PC1/3 variants, suggesting a common mechanism.

Structure of a eukaryotic voltage-gated sodium channel at near-atomic resolution.

PubMed

Shen, Huaizong; Zhou, Qiang; Pan, Xiaojing; Li, Zhangqiang; Wu, Jianping; Yan, Nieng

2017-03-03

Voltage-gated sodium (Na v ) channels are responsible for the initiation and propagation of action potentials. They are associated with a variety of channelopathies and are targeted by multiple pharmaceutical drugs and natural toxins. Here, we report the cryogenic electron microscopy structure of a putative Na v channel from American cockroach (designated Na v PaS) at 3.8 angstrom resolution. The voltage-sensing domains (VSDs) of the four repeats exhibit distinct conformations. The entrance to the asymmetric selectivity filter vestibule is guarded by heavily glycosylated and disulfide bond-stabilized extracellular loops. On the cytoplasmic side, a conserved amino-terminal domain is placed below VSD I , and a carboxy-terminal domain binds to the III-IV linker. The structure of Na v PaS establishes an important foundation for understanding function and disease mechanism of Na v and related voltage-gated calcium channels. Copyright © 2017, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Sensor system for non-invasive optical carboxy-and methemoglobin determination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Timm, Ulrich; Gewiss, Helge; Kraitl, Jens; Brock, Beate; Ewald, Hartmut

2017-02-01

The pulse oximetry is a non-invasive method to monitor the oxygen saturation and is clinically used for many years. However this technology has some limitations. In case of the presence of dysfunctional hemoglobin derivatives as carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) or methemoglobin (MetHb) the readings of the pulse oximeter are distorted. This erroneous diagnosis of the patient's status can result in a life threatening situation. This paper will describe a sensor system for noninvasive determination of carboxy- and methemoglobin.

5-Carboxy-8-hydroxyquinoline is a Broad Spectrum 2-Oxoglutarate Oxygenase Inhibitor which Causes Iron Translocation

PubMed Central

Aik, WeiShen; Che, Ka Hing; Li, Xuan Shirley; Kristensen, Jan B. L.; King, Oliver N. F.; Chan, Mun Chiang; Yeoh, Kar Kheng; Choi, Hwanho; Walport, Louise J.; Thinnes, Cyrille C.; Bush, Jacob T.; Lejeune, Clarisse; Rydzik, Anna M.; Rose, Nathan R.; Bagg, Eleanor A.; McDonough, Michael A.; Krojer, Tobias; Yue, Wyatt W.; Ng, Stanley S.; Olsen, Lars; Brennan, Paul E.; Oppermann, Udo; Muller-Knapp, Susanne; Klose, Robert J.; Ratcliffe, Peter J.; Schofield, Christopher J.; Kawamura, Akane

2015-01-01

2-Oxoglutarate and iron dependent oxygenases are therapeutic targets for human diseases. Using a representative 2OG oxygenase panel, we compare the inhibitory activities of 5-carboxy-8-hydroxyquinoline (IOX1) and 4-carboxy-8-hydroxyquinoline (4C8HQ) with that of two other commonly used 2OG oxygenase inhibitors, N-oxalylglycine (NOG) and 2,4-pyridinedicarboxylic acid (2,4-PDCA). The results reveal that IOX1 has a broad spectrum of activity, as demonstrated by the inhibition of transcription factor hydroxylases, representatives of all 2OG dependent histone demethylase subfamilies, nucleic acid demethylases and γ-butyrobetaine hydroxylase. Cellular assays show that, unlike NOG and 2,4-PDCA, IOX1 is active against both cytosolic and nuclear 2OG oxygenases without ester derivatisation. Unexpectedly, crystallographic studies on these oxygenases demonstrate that IOX1, but not 4C8HQ, can cause translocation of the active site metal, revealing a rare example of protein ligand-induced metal movement PMID:26682036

A genetic screen for terminator function in yeast identifies a role for a new functional domain in termination factor Nab3

PubMed Central

Loya, Travis J.; O’Rourke, Thomas W.; Reines, Daniel

2012-01-01

The yeast IMD2 gene encodes an enzyme involved in GTP synthesis. Its expression is controlled by guanine nucleotides through a set of alternate start sites and an intervening transcriptional terminator. In the off state, transcription results in a short non-coding RNA that starts upstream of the gene. Transcription terminates via the Nrd1-Nab3-Sen1 complex and is degraded by the nuclear exosome. Using a sensitive terminator read-through assay, we identified trans-acting Terminator Override (TOV) genes that operate this terminator. Four genes were identified: the RNA polymerase II phosphatase SSU72, the RNA polymerase II binding protein PCF11, the TRAMP subunit TRF4 and the hnRNP-like, NAB3. The TOV phenotype can be explained by the loss of function of these gene products as described in models in which termination and RNA degradation are coupled to the phosphorylation state of RNA polymerase II's repeat domain. The most interesting mutations were those found in NAB3, which led to the finding that the removal of merely three carboxy-terminal amino acids compromised Nab3's function. This region of previously unknown function is distant from the protein's well-known RNA binding and Nrd1 binding domains. Structural homology modeling suggests this Nab3 ‘tail’ forms an α-helical multimerization domain that helps assemble it onto an RNA substrate. PMID:22564898

Epitope mapping of the variable repetitive region with the MB antigen of Ureaplasma urealyticum.

PubMed Central

Zheng, X; Lau, K; Frazier, M; Cassell, G H; Watson, H L

1996-01-01

One of the major surface structures of Ureaplasma urealyticum recognized by antibodies of patients during infection is the MB antigen. Previously, we showed by Western blot (immunoblot) analysis that any one of the anti-MB monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) 3B1.5, 5B1.1, and 10C6.6 could block the binding of patient antibodies to MB. Subsequent DNA sequencing revealed that a unique six-amino-acid direct tandem repeat region composed the carboxy two-thirds of this antigen. In the present study, using antibody-reactive peptide scanning of this repeat region, we demonstrated that the amino acids defining the epitopes for MAbs 3B1.5 5B1.1 and 10C6.6 are EQP, GK, and KEQPA, respectively. Peptide scanning analysis of an infected patient's serum antibody response showed that the dominant epitope was defined by the sequence PAGK. Mapping of these continuous epitopes revealed overlap between all MAb and patient polyclonal antibody binding sites, thus explaining the ability of a single MAb to apparently block all polyclonal antibody binding sites. We also show that a single amino acid difference in the sequence of the repeats of serovars 3 and 14 accounts for the lack of reactivity with serovar 14 of two of the serovar 3-specific MAbs. Finally, the data demonstrate the need to obtain the sequences of the mba genes of all serovars before an effective serovar-specific antibody detection method can be developed. PMID:8914774

Caenorhabditis elegans fibroblast growth factor receptor signaling can occur independently of the multi-substrate adaptor FRS2.

PubMed

Lo, Te-Wen; Bennett, Daniel C; Goodman, S Jay; Stern, Michael J

2010-06-01

The components of receptor tyrosine kinase signaling complexes help to define the specificity of the effects of their activation. The Caenorhabditis elegans fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR), EGL-15, regulates a number of processes, including sex myoblast (SM) migration guidance and fluid homeostasis, both of which require a Grb2/Sos/Ras cassette of signaling components. Here we show that SEM-5/Grb2 can bind directly to EGL-15 to mediate SM chemoattraction. A yeast two-hybrid screen identified SEM-5 as able to interact with the carboxy-terminal domain (CTD) of EGL-15, a domain that is specifically required for SM chemoattraction. This interaction requires the SEM-5 SH2-binding motifs present in the CTD (Y(1009) and Y(1087)), and these sites are required for the CTD role of EGL-15 in SM chemoattraction. SEM-5, but not the SEM-5 binding sites located in the CTD, is required for the fluid homeostasis function of EGL-15, indicating that SEM-5 can link to EGL-15 through an alternative mechanism. The multi-substrate adaptor protein FRS2 serves to link vertebrate FGFRs to Grb2. In C. elegans, an FRS2-like gene, rog-1, functions upstream of a Ras/MAPK pathway for oocyte maturation but is not required for EGL-15 function. Thus, unlike the vertebrate FGFRs, which require the multi-substrate adaptor FRS2 to recruit Grb2, EGL-15 can recruit SEM-5/Grb2 directly.

Functional characterization of a competitive peptide antagonist of p65 in human macrophage-like cells suggests therapeutic potential for chronic inflammation

PubMed Central

Srinivasan, Mythily; Blackburn, Corinne; Lahiri, Debomoy K

2014-01-01

Glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ) is a glucocorticoid responsive protein that links the nuclear factor-kappa B (NFκB) and the glucocorticoid signaling pathways. Functional and binding studies suggest that the proline-rich region at the carboxy terminus of GILZ binds the p65 subunit of NFκB and suppresses the immunoinflammatory response. A widely-used strategy in the discovery of peptide drugs involves exploitation of the complementary surfaces of naturally occurring binding partners. Previously, we observed that a synthetic peptide (GILZ-P) derived from the proline-rich region of GILZ bound activated p65 and ameliorated experimental encephalomyelitis. Here we characterize the secondary structure of GILZ-P by circular dichroic analysis. GILZ-P adopts an extended polyproline type II helical conformation consistent with the structural conformation commonly observed in interfaces of transient intermolecular interactions. To determine the potential application of GILZ-P in humans, we evaluated the toxicity and efficacy of the peptide drug in mature human macrophage-like THP-1 cells. Treatment with GILZ-P at a wide range of concentrations commonly used for peptide drugs was nontoxic as determined by cell viability and apoptosis assays. Functionally, GILZ-P suppressed proliferation and glutamate secretion by activated macrophages by inhibiting nuclear translocation of p65. Collectively, our data suggest that the GILZ-P has therapeutic potential in chronic CNS diseases where persistent inflammation leads to neurodegeneration such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease. PMID:25584020

Exploring the structural insights on human laforin mutation K87A in Lafora disease--a molecular dynamics study.

PubMed

Srikumar, P S; Rohini, K

2013-10-01

Lafora disease (LD) is an autosomal recessive, progressive form of myoclonus epilepsy which affects worldwide. LD occurs mainly in countries like southern Europe, northern Africa, South India, and in the Middle East. LD occurs with its onset mainly in teenagers and leads to decline and death within 2 to 10 years. The genes EPM2A and EPM2B are commonly involved in 90 % of LD cases. EPM2A codes for protein laforin which contains an amino terminal carbohydrate binding module (CBM) belonging to the CBM20 family and a carboxy terminal dual specificity phosphatase domain. Mutations in laforin are found to abolish glycogen binding and have been reported in wet lab methods. In order to investigate on structural insights on laforin mutation K81A, we performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies for native and mutant protein. MD simulation results showed loss of stability due to mutation K87A which confirmed the structural reason for conformational changes observed in laforin. The conformational change of mutant laforin was confirmed by analysis using root mean square deviation, root mean square fluctuation, solvent accessibility surface area, radius of gyration, hydrogen bond, and principle component analysis. Our results identified that the flexibility of K87A mutated laforin structure, with replacement of acidic amino acid to aliphatic amino acid in functional CBM domain, have more impact in abolishing glycogen binding that favors LD.

The C-Module-Binding Factor Supports Amplification of TRE5-A Retrotransposons in the Dictyostelium discoideum Genome ▿

PubMed Central

Bilzer, Annika; Dölz, Heike; Reinhardt, Alexander; Schmith, Anika; Siol, Oliver; Winckler, Thomas

2011-01-01

Retrotransposable elements are molecular parasites that have invaded the genomes of virtually all organisms. Although retrotransposons encode essential proteins to mediate their amplification, they also require assistance by host cell-encoded machineries that perform functions such as DNA transcription and repair. The retrotransposon TRE5-A of the social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum generates a notable amount of both sense and antisense RNAs, which are generated from element-internal promoters, located in the A module and the C module, respectively. We observed that TRE5-A retrotransposons depend on the C-module-binding factor (CbfA) to maintain high steady-state levels of TRE5-A transcripts and that CbfA supports the retrotransposition activity of TRE5-A elements. The carboxy-terminal domain of CbfA was found to be required and sufficient to mediate the accumulation of TRE5-A transcripts, but it did not support productive retrotransposition of TRE5-A. This result suggests different roles for CbfA protein domains in the regulation of TRE5-A retrotransposition frequency in D. discoideum cells. Although CbfA binds to the C module in vitro, the factor regulates neither C-module nor A-module promoter activity in vivo. We speculate that CbfA supports the amplification of TRE5-A retrotransposons by suppressing the expression of an as yet unidentified component of the cellular posttranscriptional gene silencing machinery. PMID:21076008

Mutations in the conserved carboxy-terminal hydrophobic region of glycoprotein gB affect infectivity of herpes simplex virus.

PubMed

Wanas, E; Efler, S; Ghosh, K; Ghosh, H P

1999-12-01

Glycoprotein gB is the most highly conserved glycoprotein in the herpesvirus family and plays a critical role in virus entry and fusion. Glycoprotein gB of herpes simplex virus type 1 contains a hydrophobic stretch of 69 aa near the carboxy terminus that is essential for its biological activity. To determine the role(s) of specific amino acids in the carboxy-terminal hydrophobic region, a number of amino acids were mutagenized that are highly conserved in this region within the gB homologues of the family HERPESVIRIDAE: Three conserved residues in the membrane anchor domain, namely A786, A790 and A791, as well as amino acids G743, G746, G766, G770 and P774, that are non-variant in Herpesviridae, were mutagenized. The ability of the mutant proteins to rescue the infectivity of the gB-null virus, K082, in trans was measured by a complementation assay. All of the mutant proteins formed dimers and were incorporated in virion particles produced in the complementation assay. Mutants G746N, G766N, F770S and P774L showed negligible complementation of K082, whereas mutant G743R showed a reduced activity. Virion particles containing these four mutant glycoproteins also showed a markedly reduced rate of entry compared to the wild-type. The results suggest that non-variant residues in the carboxy-terminal hydrophobic region of the gB protein may be important in virus infectivity.

Lysines in the RNA Polymerase II C-Terminal Domain Contribute to TAF15 Fibril Recruitment.

PubMed

Janke, Abigail M; Seo, Da Hee; Rahmanian, Vahid; Conicella, Alexander E; Mathews, Kaylee L; Burke, Kathleen A; Mittal, Jeetain; Fawzi, Nicolas L

2018-05-01

Many cancer-causing chromosomal translocations result in transactivating protein products encoding FET family (FUS, EWSR1, TAF15) low-complexity (LC) domains fused to a DNA binding domain from one of several transcription factors. Recent work demonstrates that higher-order assemblies of FET LC domains bind the carboxy-terminal domain of the large subunit of RNA polymerase II (RNA pol II CTD), suggesting FET oncoproteins may mediate aberrant transcriptional activation by recruiting RNA polymerase II to promoters of target genes. Here we use nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and hydrogel fluorescence microscopy localization and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching to visualize atomic details of a model of this process, interactions of RNA pol II CTD with high-molecular weight TAF15 LC assemblies. We report NMR resonance assignments of the intact degenerate repeat half of human RNA pol II CTD alone and verify its predominant intrinsic disorder by molecular simulation. By measuring NMR spin relaxation and dark-state exchange saturation transfer, we characterize the interaction of RNA pol II CTD with amyloid-like hydrogel fibrils of TAF15 and hnRNP A2 LC domains and observe that heptads far from the acidic C-terminal tail of RNA pol II CTD bind TAF15 fibrils most avidly. Mutation of CTD lysines in heptad position 7 to consensus serines reduced the overall level of TAF15 fibril binding, suggesting that electrostatic interactions contribute to complex formation. Conversely, mutations of position 7 asparagine residues and truncation of the acidic tail had little effect. Thus, weak, multivalent interactions between TAF15 fibrils and heptads throughout RNA pol II CTD collectively mediate complex formation.

Structural basis for modulation and agonist specificity of HCN pacemaker channels.

PubMed

Zagotta, William N; Olivier, Nelson B; Black, Kevin D; Young, Edgar C; Olson, Rich; Gouaux, Eric

2003-09-11

The family of hyperpolarization-activated, cyclic nucleotide-modulated (HCN) channels are crucial for a range of electrical signalling, including cardiac and neuronal pacemaker activity, setting resting membrane electrical properties and dendritic integration. These nonselective cation channels, underlying the I(f), I(h) and I(q) currents of heart and nerve cells, are activated by membrane hyperpolarization and modulated by the binding of cyclic nucleotides such as cAMP and cGMP. The cAMP-mediated enhancement of channel activity is largely responsible for the increase in heart rate caused by beta-adrenergic agonists. Here we have investigated the mechanism underlying this modulation by studying a carboxy-terminal fragment of HCN2 containing the cyclic nucleotide-binding domain (CNBD) and the C-linker region that connects the CNBD to the pore. X-ray crystallographic structures of this C-terminal fragment bound to cAMP or cGMP, together with equilibrium sedimentation analysis, identify a tetramerization domain and the mechanism for cyclic nucleotide specificity, and suggest a model for ligand-dependent channel modulation. On the basis of amino acid sequence similarity to HCN channels, the cyclic nucleotide-gated, and eag- and KAT1-related families of channels are probably related to HCN channels in structure and mechanism.

[Variational structure and function of products from IGF-1 gene].

PubMed

Zhang, Bing-Bing; Wang, Yuan-Liang; Fan, Kai

2008-07-01

The IGF-1 gene, containing six exons, is characterized by the generation of multiple heterogeneous mRNA transcripts and translations. The IGF-1 isoforms being produced arise from the combination of multiple transcription initiation sites, alternate splicing, and different polyadenylation signals. These different mRNAs are translated to distinct circulating and local isoforms. The circulating mature IGF-1 is encoded by exons 3 and 4, and its biological function in growth and development has been intensively studied. The local isoforms of IGF-1 contains the part encoded by exons 3 and 4, and moreover the alternate extension peptide at carboxy-terminal, encoded by exons 5 and 6, is also included in the isoforms. And the functions of local IGF-1 isoforms and E-peptides have been overlooked until recently. Recently investigation shows that cell discrepant response to the overexpression of different IGF-1 isoforms and the E-peptides, and more interestingly, IGF-1Ea, IGF-1Eb (MGF) and MGF E-peptide have potential to promote skeletal muscle regeneration, to prevent cardiac muscle loss and neural damage. The acting mechanism of IGF-1 isoforms differ from the IGF-1, and the isoforms functioned probably by binding to specific E-peptide receptor, instead of binding to the IGF-1R.

Microtubule Stabilization in Pressure Overload Cardiac Hypertrophy

PubMed Central

Sato, Hiroshi; Nagai, Toshio; Kuppuswamy, Dhandapani; Narishige, Takahiro; Koide, Masaaki; Menick, Donald R.; IV, George Cooper

1997-01-01

Increased microtubule density, for which microtubule stabilization is one potential mechanism, causes contractile dysfunction in cardiac hypertrophy. After microtubule assembly, α-tubulin undergoes two, likely sequential, time-dependent posttranslational changes: reversible carboxy-terminal detyrosination (Tyr-tubulin ↔ Glu-tubulin) and then irreversible deglutamination (Glu-tubulin → Δ2-tubulin), such that Glu- and Δ2-tubulin are markers for long-lived, stable microtubules. Therefore, we generated antibodies for Tyr-, Glu-, and Δ2-tubulin and used them for staining of right and left ventricular cardiocytes from control cats and cats with right ventricular hypertrophy. Tyr- tubulin microtubule staining was equal in right and left ventricular cardiocytes of control cats, but Glu-tubulin and Δ2-tubulin staining were insignificant, i.e., the microtubules were labile. However, Glu- and Δ2-tubulin were conspicuous in microtubules of right ventricular cardiocytes from pressure overloaded cats, i.e., the microtubules were stable. This finding was confirmed in terms of increased microtubule drug and cold stability in the hypertrophied cells. In further studies, we found an increase in a microtubule binding protein, microtubule-associated protein 4, on both mRNA and protein levels in pressure-hypertrophied myocardium. Thus, microtubule stabilization, likely facilitated by binding of a microtubule-associated protein, may be a mechanism for the increased microtubule density characteristic of pressure overload cardiac hypertrophy. PMID:9362514

The neuropeptide substance P stimulates the effector functions of platelets.

PubMed Central

Damonneville, M; Monté, D; Auriault, C; Capron, A

1990-01-01

Sensory neuropeptides, such as substance P, appear as potent mediators of various immunological reactions, and inhibit or stimulate a wide range of functions of immune inflammatory cells. Platelets were recently shown to participate as effector cells in an IgE or lymphokine-dependent killing of parasites. Substance P and its carboxy-terminal fragment SP (4-11) induce the cytotoxic activity of platelets towards the larvae of Schistosoma mansoni, respectively, by 90% and 40%, whereas the modified C terminal SP, the SP-free acid, exhibits no effect on the platelets. The neuropeptide effects occur at low doses (10(-8) M), are specific as shown by inhibition studies with a substance P antagonist, the D-SP. Binding data obtained after flow cytofluorometry with FITC-SP lead to the conclusion that SP binds specifically to about 20% of the homogenous population of platelets. Moreover, IgE could modulate the SP-dependent functions of platelets since the pre-incubation with myeloma human IgE or with AP2 monoclonal antibodies--known to inhibit the IgE-dependent killing of these cells-leads to a dramatic decrease of the SP dependent cytotoxic activity of platelets towards the larvae. These findings identify a potent mechanism for nervous system regulation of host defence responses. PMID:1696868

Cloning of cellobiose phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent phosphotransferase genes: Functional expression in recombinant Escherichia coli and identification of a putative binding region for disaccharides

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lai, Xiaokuang; Davis, F.C.; Ingram, L.O.

1997-02-01

Genomic libraries from nine cellobiose-metabolizing bacteria were screened for cellobiose utilization. Positive clones were recovered from six libraries, all of which encode phosphoenolpyruvate:carbohydrate phosphotransferase system (PTS) proteins. Clones from Bacillus subtilis, Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens, and Klebsiella oxytoca allowed the growth of recombinant Escherichia coli in cellobiose-M9 minimal medium. The K. oxytoca clone, pLOI1906, exhibited an unusually broad substrate range (cellobiose, arbutin, salicin, and methylumbelliferyl derivatives of glucose, cellobiose, mannose, and xylose) and was sequenced. The insert in this plasmid encoded the carboxy-terminal region of a putative regulatory protein, cellobiose permease (single polypeptide), and phospho-{beta}-glucosidase, which appear to form an operon (casRAB).more » Subclones allowed both casA and casB to be expressed independently, as evidenced by in vitro complementation. An analysis of the translated sequences from the EIIC domains of cellobiose, aryl-{beta}-glucoside, and other disaccharide permeases allowed the identification of a 50-amino-acid conserved region. A disaccharide consensus sequence is proposed for the most conserved segment (13 amino acids), which may represent part of the EIIC active site for binding and phosphorylation. 63 refs., 4 figs., 4 tabs.« less

Biotransformation of labdane and halimane diterpenoids by two filamentous fungi strains

PubMed Central

Seidl, Cláudia; Severino, Vanessa G. P.; Cardoso, Carmen Lúcia; Castro-Gamboa, Ian

2017-01-01

Biotransformation of natural products by filamentous fungi is a powerful and effective approach to achieve derivatives with valuable new chemical and biological properties. Although diterpenoid substrates usually exhibit good susceptibility towards fungi enzymes, there have been no studies concerning the microbiological transformation of halimane-type diterpenoids up to now. In this work, we investigated the capability of Fusarium oxysporum (a fungus isolated from the rhizosphere of Senna spectabilis) and Myrothecium verrucaria (an endophyte) to transform halimane (1) and labdane (2) acids isolated from Hymenaea stigonocarpa (Fabaceae). Feeding experiments resulted in the production of six derivatives, including hydroxy, oxo, formyl and carboxy analogues. Incubation of 1 with F. oxysporum afforded 2-oxo-derivative (3), while bioconversion with M. verrucaria provided 18,19-dihydroxy (4), 18-formyl (5) and 18-carboxy (6) bioproducts. Transformation of substrate 2 mediated by F. oxysporum produced a 7α-hydroxy (7) derivative, while M. verrucaria yielded 7α- (7) and 3β-hydroxy (8) metabolites. Unlike F. oxysporum, which showed a preference to transform ring B, M. verrucaria exhibited the ability to hydroxylate both rings A and B from substrate 2. Additionally, compounds 1–8 were evaluated for inhibitory activity against Hr-AChE and Hu-BChE enzymes through ICER-IT-MS/MS assay. PMID:29291077

Biotransformation of labdane and halimane diterpenoids by two filamentous fungi strains.

PubMed

Monteiro, Afif F; Seidl, Cláudia; Severino, Vanessa G P; Cardoso, Carmen Lúcia; Castro-Gamboa, Ian

2017-11-01

Biotransformation of natural products by filamentous fungi is a powerful and effective approach to achieve derivatives with valuable new chemical and biological properties. Although diterpenoid substrates usually exhibit good susceptibility towards fungi enzymes, there have been no studies concerning the microbiological transformation of halimane-type diterpenoids up to now. In this work, we investigated the capability of Fusarium oxysporum (a fungus isolated from the rhizosphere of Senna spectabilis ) and Myrothecium verrucaria (an endophyte) to transform halimane ( 1 ) and labdane ( 2 ) acids isolated from Hymenaea stigonocarpa (Fabaceae). Feeding experiments resulted in the production of six derivatives, including hydroxy, oxo, formyl and carboxy analogues. Incubation of 1 with F. oxysporum afforded 2-oxo-derivative ( 3 ), while bioconversion with M. verrucaria provided 18,19-dihydroxy ( 4 ), 18-formyl ( 5 ) and 18-carboxy ( 6 ) bioproducts. Transformation of substrate 2 mediated by F. oxysporum produced a 7 α -hydroxy ( 7 ) derivative, while M. verrucaria yielded 7 α - ( 7 ) and 3 β -hydroxy ( 8 ) metabolites. Unlike F. oxysporum , which showed a preference to transform ring B, M. verrucaria exhibited the ability to hydroxylate both rings A and B from substrate 2 . Additionally, compounds 1 - 8 were evaluated for inhibitory activity against Hr-AChE and Hu-BChE enzymes through ICER-IT-MS/MS assay.

Biotransformation of acyclovir by an enriched nitrifying culture.

PubMed

Xu, Yifeng; Yuan, Zhiguo; Ni, Bing-Jie

2017-03-01

This work evaluates the biodegradation of the antiviral drug acyclovir by an enriched nitrifying culture during ammonia oxidation and without the addition of ammonium. The study on kinetics was accompanied with the structural elucidation of biotransformation products through batch biodegradation experiments at two different initial levels of acyclovir (15 mg L -1 and 15 μg L -1 ). The pseudo first order kinetic studies of acyclovir in the presence of ammonium indicated the higher degradation rates under higher ammonia oxidation rates than those constant degradation rates in the absence of ammonium. The positive correlation was found between acyclovir degradation rate and ammonia oxidation rate, confirming the cometabolism of acyclovir by the enriched nitrifying culture in the presence of ammonium. Formation of the product carboxy-acyclovir (P239) indicated the main biotransformation pathway was aerobic oxidation of the terminal hydroxyl group, which was independent on the metabolic type (i.e. cometabolism or metabolism). This enzyme-linked reaction might be catalyzed by monooxygenase from ammonia oxidizing bacteria or heterotrophs. The formation of carboxy-acyclovir was demonstrated to be irrelevant to the acyclovir concentrations applied, indicating the revealed biotransformation pathway might be the dominant removal pathway of acyclovir in wastewater treatment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Estimation of perimortal percent carboxy-heme in nonstandard postmortem specimens using analysis of carbon monoxide by GC/MS and iron by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry.

PubMed

Middleberg, R A; Easterling, D E; Zelonis, S F; Rieders, F; Rieders, M F

1993-01-01

In decomposed, formalin-fixed, embalmed, exhumed, and some fire-dried cases in which normal blood is unavailable, the usual methods for determination of carboxyhemoglobin saturation frequently fail. To address these specimens, a method utilizing both gas chromatography/mass spectrometric (GC/MS) determination of carbon monoxide (CO) and flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry (FAAS) determination of iron (Fe), in the same specimen, was developed. The method is reported here, along with its application to seven pertinent forsensic death investigations. The CO analytical methodology involves acid liberation of the gas from the specimen aliquot in a headspace vial. After heating and equilibrating, a sample of the headspace vapor is injected into the GC/MS system with a gastight syringe. Quantitation is achieved by standard addition comparison utilizing the ideal gas law equation. Iron is quantified by FAAS analysis of the same aliquot used for the CO determination, following nitric acid digestion. The concentration is determined by comparison to a standard curve. A formula for determining the minimum percent carboxy-heme saturation was derived by using the ratio of the amount of CO to the amount of Fe in the aliquot analyzed. Tissue types analyzed include spleen, liver, muscle, dried blood, and unspecified decomposed tissue.

Development of an in vitro photosafety evaluation method utilizing intracellular ROS production in THP-1 cells.

PubMed

Toyoda, Akemi; Itagaki, Hiroshi

2018-01-01

Photoreactive compounds that may experience exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can lead to the intracellular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which may cause phototoxic and photoallergenic responses. Here, we developed a novel in vitro photosafety assay and investigated whether it could be used to predict phototoxicity and photosensitivity by measuring changes in intracellular ROS production. THP-1 cells that had previously taken up 5-(and-6)-carboxy-2',7'-difluorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (carboxy-H 2 DFFDA), a ROS-sensitive fluorescent reagent, were exposed to photoreactive substances such as phototoxic and photoallergenic materials and then subjected to with UV-A irradiation (5 J/cm 2 ). The fluorescence intensity was subsequently measured using a flow cytometer, and the intracellular ROS production was calculated. A statistically significant increase in ROS following treatment with photoreactive substances was observed in cells irradiated with UV-A. In contrast, no significant increase was observed for non-photoreactive substances in comparison to the control solution. Next, to confirm the impact of intracellular ROS on the photosensitive response, changes in CD86 and CD54 expression were measured following quencher addition during the photo human cell line activation test (photo h-CLAT). The results confirmed the reduction of CD86 and CD54 expression in response to photoallergenic substances following quencher addition. Together, these findings suggest that intracellular ROS production is involved in photosensitizing reactions. Therefore, we suggest that the developed method utilizing intracellular ROS production as an index may be useful as a novel in vitro evaluation tool for photoreactive substances.

Age, Weight, and CYP2D6 Genotype Are Major Determinants of Primaquine Pharmacokinetics in African Children

PubMed Central

Gonçalves, Bronner P.; Pett, Helmi; Tiono, Alfred B.; Murry, Daryl; Sirima, Sodiomon B.; Niemi, Mikko; Bousema, Teun; Drakeley, Chris

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Low-dose primaquine is recommended to prevent Plasmodium falciparum malaria transmission in areas threatened by artemisinin resistance and areas aiming for malaria elimination. Community treatment campaigns with artemisinin-based combination therapy in combination with the gametocytocidal primaquine dose target all age groups, but no studies thus far have assessed the pharmacokinetics of this gametocytocidal drug in African children. We recruited 40 children participating in a primaquine efficacy trial in Burkina Faso to study primaquine pharmacokinetics. These children received artemether-lumefantrine and either a 0.25- or a 0.40-mg/kg primaquine dose. Seven blood samples were collected from each participant for primaquine and carboxy-primaquine plasma levels determinations: one sample was collected before primaquine administration and six after primaquine administration according to partially overlapping sampling schedules. Physiological population pharmacokinetic modeling was used to assess the impact of weight, age, and CYP2D6 genotype on primaquine and carboxy-primaquine pharmacokinetics. Despite linear weight normalized dosing, the areas under the plasma concentration-time curves and the peak concentrations for both primaquine and carboxy-primaquine increased with age and body weight. Children who were CYP2D6 poor metabolizers had higher levels of the parent compound, indicating a lower primaquine CYP2D6-mediated metabolism. Our data indicate that primaquine and carboxy-primaquine pharmacokinetics are influenced by age, weight, and CYP2D6 genotype and suggest that dosing strategies may have to be reconsidered to maximize the transmission-blocking properties of primaquine. (This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under registration no. NCT01935882.) PMID:28289025

Angiostatic, tumor inflammatory and anti-tumor effects of CXCL4(47-70) and CXCL4L1(47-70) in an EGF-dependent breast cancer model.

PubMed

Van Raemdonck, Katrien; Berghmans, Nele; Vanheule, Vincent; Bugatti, Antonella; Proost, Paul; Opdenakker, Ghislain; Presta, Marco; Van Damme, Jo; Struyf, Sofie

2014-11-15

CXCL4 and CXCL4L1, platelet-derived CXC chemokines, and their carboxy-terminal peptides CXCL4(47-70) and CXCL4L1(47-70) previously displayed angiostatic and anti-tumoral activity in a melanoma model. Here, we found CXCL4(47-70) and CXCL4L1(47-70) to inhibit lymphatic endothelial cell proliferation in vitro. Furthermore, the angiostatic potential of CXCL4(47-70) and CXCL4L1(47-70) was tested against different angiogenic stimuli (FGF1, FGF2, FGF8, EGF and VEGF). Besides reducing FGF2-induced vascular endothelial cell growth, CXCL4(47-70) and CXCL4L1(47-70) efficiently counteracted EGF. Consequently, we considered their anti-tumoral potential in EGF-dependent MDA-MB-231 breast tumors. In tumor-bearing mice, CXCL4(47-70) reduced tumor growth better than CXCL4L1(47-70). In CXCL4(47-70)-treated tumors significantly more intratumoral monocytes/macrophages and dendritic cells were present and higher expression levels of CCL5 and IFN- γ were detected by qPCR on tumor lysates. Because neither peptide was able to specifically bind CXCR3A or CXCR3B, differential glycosaminoglycan binding and direct interaction with cytokines (EGF and CCL5) might explain any differences in anti-tumoral effects. Notably, CCL5-induced monocyte chemotaxis in vitro was increased by addition of CXCL4(47-70) or CXCL4L1(47-70). Finally, CXCL4(47-70) and CXCL4L1(47-70) inhibited proliferation of MDA-MB-231 cells. Our results suggest a tumor type-dependent responsiveness to either CXCL4(47-70) or CXCL4L1(47-70) treatment, defined by anti-proliferative, angiostatic and inflammatory actions, and substantiate their therapeutic potential.

Angiostatic, tumor inflammatory and anti-tumor effects of CXCL447–70 and CXCL4L147–70 in an EGF-dependent breast cancer model

PubMed Central

Van Raemdonck, Katrien; Berghmans, Nele; Vanheule, Vincent; Bugatti, Antonella; Proost, Paul; Opdenakker, Ghislain; Presta, Marco; Van Damme, Jo; Struyf, Sofie

2014-01-01

CXCL4 and CXCL4L1, platelet-derived CXC chemokines, and their carboxy-terminal peptides CXCL447–70 and CXCL4L147–70 previously displayed angiostatic and anti-tumoral activity in a melanoma model. Here, we found CXCL447–70 and CXCL4L147–70 to inhibit lymphatic endothelial cell proliferation in vitro. Furthermore, the angiostatic potential of CXCL447–70 and CXCL4L147–70 was tested against different angiogenic stimuli (FGF1, FGF2, FGF8, EGF and VEGF). Besides reducing FGF2-induced vascular endothelial cell growth, CXCL447–70 and CXCL4L147–70 efficiently counteracted EGF. Consequently, we considered their anti-tumoral potential in EGF-dependent MDA-MB-231 breast tumors. In tumor-bearing mice, CXCL447–70 reduced tumor growth better than CXCL4L147–70. In CXCL447–70-treated tumors significantly more intratumoral monocytes/macrophages and dendritic cells were present and higher expression levels of CCL5 and IFN-γ were detected by qPCR on tumor lysates. Because neither peptide was able to specifically bind CXCR3A or CXCR3B, differential glycosaminoglycan binding and direct interaction with cytokines (EGF and CCL5) might explain any differences in anti-tumoral effects. Notably, CCL5-induced monocyte chemotaxis in vitro was increased by addition of CXCL447–70 or CXCL4L147–70. Finally, CXCL447–70 and CXCL4L147–70 inhibited proliferation of MDA-MB-231 cells. Our results suggest a tumor type-dependent responsiveness to either CXCL447–70 or CXCL4L147–70 treatment, defined by anti-proliferative, angiostatic and inflammatory actions, and substantiate their therapeutic potential. PMID:25373734

Efficient and Scalable Synthesis of 4-Carboxy-Pennsylvania Green Methyl Ester: A Hydrophobic Building Block for Fluorescent Molecular Probes.

PubMed

Woydziak, Zachary R; Fu, Liqiang; Peterson, Blake R

2014-01-01

Fluorinated fluorophores are valuable tools for studies of biological systems. However, amine-reactive single-isomer derivatives of these compounds are often very expensive. To provide an inexpensive alternative, we report a practical synthesis of 4-carboxy-Pennsylvania Green methyl ester. Derivatives of this hydrophobic fluorinated fluorophore, a hybrid of the dyes Oregon Green and Tokyo Green, are often cell permeable, enabling labeling of intracellular targets and components. Moreover, the low pKa of Pennsylvania Green (4.8) confers bright fluorescence in acidic cellular compartments such as endosomes, enhancing its utility for chemical biology investigations. To improve access to the key intermediate 2,7-difluoro-3,6-dihydroxyxanthen-9-one, we subjected bis-(2,4,5-trifluorophenyl)methanone to iterative nucleophilic aromatic substitution by hydroxide on scales of > 40 g. This intermediate was used to prepare over 15 grams of pure 4-carboxy-Pennsylvania Green methyl ester in 28% overall yield without requiring chromatography. This compound can be converted into the amine reactive N -hydroxysuccinimidyl ester in essentially quantitative yield for the synthesis of a wide variety of fluorescent molecular probes.

Revisiting Mitochondrial pH with an Improved Algorithm for Calibration of the Ratiometric 5(6)-carboxy-SNARF-1 Probe Reveals Anticooperative Reaction with H+ Ions and Warrants Further Studies of Organellar pH

PubMed Central

Żurawik, Tomasz Michał; Pomorski, Adam; Belczyk-Ciesielska, Agnieszka; Goch, Grażyna; Niedźwiedzka, Katarzyna; Kucharczyk, Róża; Krężel, Artur; Bal, Wojciech

2016-01-01

Fluorescence measurements of pH and other analytes in the cell rely on accurate calibrations, but these have routinely used algorithms that inadequately describe the properties of indicators. Here, we have established a more accurate method for calibrating and analyzing data obtained using the ratiometric probe 5(6)-carboxy-SNARF-1. We tested the implications of novel approach to measurements of pH in yeast mitochondria, a compartment containing a small number of free H+ ions. Our findings demonstrate that 5(6)-carboxy-SNARF-1 interacts with H+ ions inside the mitochondria in an anticooperative manner (Hill coefficient n of 0.5) and the apparent pH inside the mitochondria is ~0.5 unit lower than had been generally assumed. This result, at odds with the current consensus on the mechanism of energy generation in the mitochondria, is in better agreement with theoretical considerations and warrants further studies of organellar pH. PMID:27557123

Conformations of 2-carboxy-1,4-butanedioic acid as a function of ionization state in dimethyl sulfoxide.

PubMed

Nair, Gautham; Roberts, John D

2003-10-02

[reaction: see text] The conformational equilibria of 2-carboxy-1,4-butanedioic acid and its mono-, di-, and trianions were estimated by NMR couplings in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Intramolecular hydrogen bonding was inferred for the mono- and dianions, but not for the triacid. For the di- and trianions, the (3)J(HH) couplings were consistent with the negative carboxylate groups being much closer together than might be expected from electrostatic repulsion considerations. The successive triacid pK(a) values were estimated as 7.0, 13.4, and approximately 20(?) on the Bordwell scale.

Isolation of the MIG1 gene from Candida albicans and effects of its disruption on catabolite repression.

PubMed

Zaragoza, O; Rodríguez, C; Gancedo, C

2000-01-01

We have cloned a Candida albicans gene (CaMIG1) that encodes a protein homologous to the DNA-binding protein Mig1 from Saccharomyces cerevisiae (ScMig1). The C. albicans Mig1 protein (CaMig1) differs from ScMig1, in that, among other things, it lacks a putative phosphorylation site for Snf1 and presents several long stretches rich in glutamine or in asparagine, serine, and threonine and has the effector domain located at some distance (50 amino acids) from the carboxy terminus. Expression of CaMIG1 was low and was similar in glucose-, sucrose-, or ethanol-containing media. Disruption of the two CaMIG1 genomic copies had no effect in filamentation or infectivity. Levels of a glucose-repressible alpha-glucosidase, implicated in both sucrose and maltose utilization, were similar in wild-type or mig1/mig1 cells. Disruption of CaMIG1 had also no effect on the expression of the glucose-repressed gene CaGAL1. CaMIG1 was functional in S. cerevisiae, as judged by its ability to suppress the phenotypes produced by mig1 or tps1 mutations. In addition, CaMig1 formed specific complexes with the URS1 region of the S. cerevisiae FBP1 gene. The existence of a possible functional analogue of CaMIG1 in C. albicans was suggested by the results of band shift experiments.

Isolation of the MIG1 Gene from Candida albicans and Effects of Its Disruption on Catabolite Repression

PubMed Central

Zaragoza, Oscar; Rodríguez, Cristina; Gancedo, Carlos

2000-01-01

We have cloned a Candida albicans gene (CaMIG1) that encodes a protein homologous to the DNA-binding protein Mig1 from Saccharomyces cerevisiae (ScMig1). The C. albicans Mig1 protein (CaMig1) differs from ScMig1, in that, among other things, it lacks a putative phosphorylation site for Snf1 and presents several long stretches rich in glutamine or in asparagine, serine, and threonine and has the effector domain located at some distance (50 amino acids) from the carboxy terminus. Expression of CaMIG1 was low and was similar in glucose-, sucrose-, or ethanol-containing media. Disruption of the two CaMIG1 genomic copies had no effect in filamentation or infectivity. Levels of a glucose-repressible α-glucosidase, implicated in both sucrose and maltose utilization, were similar in wild-type or mig1/mig1 cells. Disruption of CaMIG1 had also no effect on the expression of the glucose-repressed gene CaGAL1. CaMIG1 was functional in S. cerevisiae, as judged by its ability to suppress the phenotypes produced by mig1 or tps1 mutations. In addition, CaMig1 formed specific complexes with the URS1 region of the S. cerevisiae FBP1 gene. The existence of a possible functional analogue of CaMIG1 in C. albicans was suggested by the results of band shift experiments. PMID:10629176

Single-dose safety and pharmacokinetic evaluation of fluorocoxib A: pilot study of novel cyclooxygenase-2-targeted optical imaging agent in a canine model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cekanova, Maria; Uddin, Md. Jashim; Legendre, Alfred M.; Galyon, Gina; Bartges, Joseph W.; Callens, Amanda; Martin-Jimenez, Tomas; Marnett, Lawrence J.

2012-11-01

We evaluated preclinical single-dose safety, pharmacokinetic properties, and specific uptake of the new optical imaging agent fluorocoxib A in dogs. Fluorocoxib A, N-[(5-carboxy-X-rhodaminyl)but-4-yl]-2-[1-(4-chlorobenzoyl)-5-methoxy-2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl]acetamide, selectively binds and inhibits the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme, which is overexpressed in many cancers. Safety pilot studies were performed in research dogs following intravenous (i.v.) administration of 0.1 and 1 mg/kg fluorocoxib A. Blood and urine samples collected three days after administration of each dose of fluorocoxib A revealed no evidence of toxicity, and no clinically relevant adverse events were noted on physical examination of exposed dogs over that time period. Pharmacokinetic parameters were assessed in additional research dogs from plasma collected at several time points after i.v. administration of fluorocoxib A using high-performance liquid chromatography analysis. The pharmacokinetic studies using 1 mg/kg showed a peak of fluorocoxib A (92±28 ng/ml) in plasma collected at 0.5 h. Tumor specific uptake of fluorocoxib A was demonstrated using a dog diagnosed with colorectal cancer expressing COX-2. Our data support the safe single-dose administration and in vivo efficacy of fluorocoxib A, suggesting a high potential for successful translation to clinical use as an imaging agent for improved tumor detection in humans.

Crystal structure of the Rous sarcoma virus intasome

DOE PAGES

Yin, Zhiqi; Shi, Ke; Banerjee, Surajit; ...

2016-02-17

Integration of the reverse-transcribed viral DNA into the host genome is an essential step in the life cycle of retroviruses. Retrovirus integrase catalyses insertions of both ends of the linear viral DNA into a host chromosome. Integrase from HIV-1 and closely related retroviruses share the three-domain organization, consisting of a catalytic core domain flanked by amino- and carboxy-terminal domains essential for the concerted integration reaction. Although structures of the tetrameric integrase–DNA complexes have been reported for integrase from prototype foamy virus featuring an additional DNA-binding domain and longer interdomain linkers, the architecture of a canonical three-domain integrase bound to DNAmore » remained elusive. In this paper, we report a crystal structure of the three-domain integrase from Rous sarcoma virus in complex with viral and target DNAs. The structure shows an octameric assembly of integrase, in which a pair of integrase dimers engage viral DNA ends for catalysis while another pair of non-catalytic integrase dimers bridge between the two viral DNA molecules and help capture target DNA. The individual domains of the eight integrase molecules play varying roles to hold the complex together, making an extensive network of protein–DNA and protein–protein contacts that show both conserved and distinct features compared with those observed for prototype foamy virus integrase. Finally, our work highlights the diversity of retrovirus intasome assembly and provides insights into the mechanisms of integration by HIV-1 and related retroviruses.« less

Structure and biochemical functions of four simian virus 40 truncated large-T antigens.

PubMed Central

Chaudry, F; Harvey, R; Smith, A E

1982-01-01

The structure of four abnormal T antigens which are present in different simian virus 40 (SV40)-transformed mouse cell lines was studied by tryptic peptide mapping, partial proteolysis fingerprinting, immunoprecipitation with monoclonal antibodies, and in vitro translation. The results obtained allowed us to deduce that these proteins, which have apparent molecular weights of 15,000, 22,000, 33,000 and 45,000, are truncated forms of large-T antigen extending to different amounts into the amino acid sequences unique to large-T. The proteins are all phosphorylated, probably at a site between amino acids 106 and 123. The mRNAs coding for the proteins probably contain the normal large-T splice but are shorter than the normal transcripts of the SV40 early region. The truncated large-Ts were tested for the ability to bind to double-stranded DNA-cellulose. This showed that the 33,000- and 45,000-molecular-weight polypeptides contained sequences sufficient for binding under the conditions used, whereas the 15,000- and 22,000-molecular-weight forms did not. Together with published data, this allows the tentative mapping of a region of SV40 large-T between amino acids 109 and 272 that is necessary and may be sufficient for the binding to double-stranded DNA-cellulose in vitro. None of the truncated large-T species formed a stable complex with the host cell protein referred to as nonviral T-antigen or p53, suggesting that the carboxy-terminal sequences of large-T are necessary for complex formation. Images PMID:6292504

Virtual screening and pharmacophore studies for ftase inhibitors using Indian plant anticancer compounds database.

PubMed

Khan, Abdul Hafeez; Prakash, Alok; Kumar, Dinesh; Rawat, Anil Kumar; Srivastava, Rajeev; Srivastava, Shipra

2010-07-06

Farnesyl transferase (FTase) is an enzyme responsible for post-translational modification in proteins having a carboxy-terminal CaaX motif in human. It catalyzes the attachment of a lipid group in proteins of RAS superfamily, which is essential in signal transduction. FTase has been recognized as an important target for anti cancer therapeutics. In this work, we performed virtual screening against FTase with entire 125 compounds from Indian Plant Anticancer Database using AutoDock 3.0.5 software. All compounds were docked within binding pocket containing Lys164, Tyr300, His248 and Tyr361 residues in crystal structure of FTase. These complexes were ranked according to their docking score, using methodology that was shown to achieve maximum accuracy. Finally we got three potent compounds with the best Autodock docking Score (Vinorelbine: -21.28 Kcal/mol, Vincristine: -21.74 Kcal/mol and Vinblastine: -22.14 Kcal/mol) and their energy scores were better than the FTase bound co-crystallized ligand (L- 739: -7.9 kcal/mol). These three compounds belong to Vinca alkaloids were analyzed through Python Molecular Viewer for their interaction studies. It predicted similar orientation and binding modes for these compounds with L-739 in FTase.Thus from the complex scoring and binding ability it is concluded that these Vinca alkaloids could be promising inhibitors for FTase. A 2-D pharmacophore was generated for these alkaloids using LigandScout to confirm it. A shared feature pharmacophore was also constructed that shows four common features (one hydogen bond Donar, Two hydrogen bond Acceptor and one ionizable area) help compounds to interact with this enzyme.

Inhibition mechanisms of hemoglobin, immunoglobulin G, and whole blood in digital and real-time PCR.

PubMed

Sidstedt, Maja; Hedman, Johannes; Romsos, Erica L; Waitara, Leticia; Wadsö, Lars; Steffen, Carolyn R; Vallone, Peter M; Rådström, Peter

2018-04-01

Blood samples are widely used for PCR-based DNA analysis in fields such as diagnosis of infectious diseases, cancer diagnostics, and forensic genetics. In this study, the mechanisms behind blood-induced PCR inhibition were evaluated by use of whole blood as well as known PCR-inhibitory molecules in both digital PCR and real-time PCR. Also, electrophoretic mobility shift assay was applied to investigate interactions between inhibitory proteins and DNA, and isothermal titration calorimetry was used to directly measure effects on DNA polymerase activity. Whole blood caused a decrease in the number of positive digital PCR reactions, lowered amplification efficiency, and caused severe quenching of the fluorescence of the passive reference dye 6-carboxy-X-rhodamine as well as the double-stranded DNA binding dye EvaGreen. Immunoglobulin G was found to bind to single-stranded genomic DNA, leading to increased quantification cycle values. Hemoglobin affected the DNA polymerase activity and thus lowered the amplification efficiency. Hemoglobin and hematin were shown to be the molecules in blood responsible for the fluorescence quenching. In conclusion, hemoglobin and immunoglobulin G are the two major PCR inhibitors in blood, where the first affects amplification through a direct effect on the DNA polymerase activity and quenches the fluorescence of free dye molecules, and the latter binds to single-stranded genomic DNA, hindering DNA polymerization in the first few PCR cycles. Graphical abstract PCR inhibition mechanisms of hemoglobin and immunoglobulin G (IgG). Cq quantification cycle, dsDNA double-stranded DNA, ssDNA single-stranded DNA.

Five-coordinate H64Q neuroglobin as a ligand-trap antidote for carbon monoxide poisoning

PubMed Central

Azarov, Ivan; Wang, Ling; Rose, Jason J.; Xu, Qinzi; Huang, Xueyin N.; Belanger, Andrea; Wang, Ying; Guo, Lanping; Liu, Chen; Ucer, Kamil B.; McTiernan, Charles F.; O’Donnell, Christopher P.; Shiva, Sruti; Tejero, Jesús; Kim-Shapiro, Daniel B.; Gladwin, Mark T.

2016-01-01

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a leading cause of poisoning deaths worldwide, with no available antidotal therapy. We introduce a potential treatment paradigm for CO poisoning, based on near-irreversible binding of CO by an engineered human neuroglobin (Ngb). Ngb is a six-coordinate hemoprotein, with the heme iron coordinated by two histidine residues. We mutated the distal histidine to glutamine (H64Q) and substituted three surface cysteines with less reactive amino acids to form a five-coordinate heme protein (Ngb-H64Q-CCC). This molecule exhibited an unusually high affinity for gaseous ligands, with a P50 value for oxygen of 0.015 mmHg. Ngb-H64Q-CCC bound CO about 500 times more strongly than did hemoglobin. Incubation of Ngb-H64Q-CCC with 100% CO-saturated hemoglobin, either cell-free or encapsulated in human red blood cells, reduced the half-life of carboxy-hemoglobin to 0.11 and 0.41 minutes, respectively, from a value that is ≥ 200 minutes when the hemoglobin or cells are only exposed to air. Infusions of Ngb-H64Q-CCC to CO-poisoned mice enhanced CO removal from red blood cells, restored heart rate and blood pressure, increased survival, and were followed by rapid renal elimination of CO-bound Ngb-H64Q-CCC. Heme-based scavenger molecules with very high CO binding affinity such as our mutant five-coordinate Ngb are potential antidotes for CO poisoning by virtue of their ability to bind and eliminate CO. PMID:27928027

Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Receptor Structure and GnRH Binding

PubMed Central

Flanagan, Colleen A.; Manilall, Ashmeetha

2017-01-01

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) regulates reproduction. The human GnRH receptor lacks a cytoplasmic carboxy-terminal tail but has amino acid sequence motifs characteristic of rhodopsin-like, class A, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). This review will consider how recent descriptions of X-ray crystallographic structures of GPCRs in inactive and active conformations may contribute to understanding GnRH receptor structure, mechanism of activation and ligand binding. The structures confirmed that ligands bind to variable extracellular surfaces, whereas the seven membrane-spanning α-helices convey the activation signal to the cytoplasmic receptor surface, which binds and activates heterotrimeric G proteins. Forty non-covalent interactions that bridge topologically equivalent residues in different transmembrane (TM) helices are conserved in class A GPCR structures, regardless of activation state. Conformation-independent interhelical contacts account for a conserved receptor protein structure and their importance in the GnRH receptor structure is supported by decreased expression of receptors with mutations of residues in the network. Many of the GnRH receptor mutations associated with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, including the Glu2.53(90) Lys mutation, involve amino acids that constitute the conserved network. Half of the ~250 intramolecular interactions in GPCRs differ between inactive and active structures. Conformation-specific interhelical contacts depend on amino acids changing partners during activation. Conserved inactive conformation-specific contacts prevent receptor activation by stabilizing proximity of TM helices 3 and 6 and a closed G protein-binding site. Mutations of GnRH receptor residues involved in these interactions, such as Arg3.50(139) of the DRY/S motif or Tyr7.53(323) of the N/DPxxY motif, increase or decrease receptor expression and efficiency of receptor coupling to G protein signaling, consistent with the native residues stabilizing the inactive GnRH receptor structure. Active conformation-specific interhelical contacts stabilize an open G protein-binding site. Progress in defining the GnRH-binding site has recently slowed, with evidence that Tyr6.58(290) contacts Tyr5 of GnRH, whereas other residues affect recognition of Trp3 and Gly10NH2. The surprisingly consistent observations that GnRH receptor mutations that disrupt GnRH binding have less effect on “conformationally constrained” GnRH peptides may now be explained by crystal structures of agonist-bound peptide receptors. Analysis of GPCR structures provides insight into GnRH receptor function. PMID:29123501

Phylogenomic characterization of California sea lion adenovirus-1.

PubMed

Cortés-Hinojosa, Galaxia; Gulland, Frances M D; Goldstein, Tracey; Venn-Watson, Stephanie; Rivera, Rebecca; Waltzek, Thomas B; Salemi, Marco; Wellehan, James F X

2015-04-01

Significant adenoviral diversity has been found in humans, but in domestic and wild animals the number of identified viruses is lower. Here we present the complete genome of a recently discovered mastadenovirus, California sea lion adenovirus 1 (CSLAdV-1) isolated from California sea lions (Zalophus californianus), an important pathogen associated with hepatitis in pinnipeds. The genome of this virus has the typical mastadenoviral structure with some notable differences at the carboxy-terminal end, including a dUTPase that does not cluster with other mastadenoviral dUTPases, and a fiber that shows similarity to a trans-sialidase of Trypanosoma cruzi and choline-binding protein A (CbpA) of Streptococcus pneumoniae. The GC content is low (36%), and phylogenetic analyses placed the virus near the root of the clade infecting laurasiatherian hosts in the genus Mastadenovirus. These findings support the hypothesis that CSLAdV-1 in California sea lions represents a host jump from an unknown mammalian host in which it is endemic. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Tracking developmentally regulated post-synthetic processing of homogalacturonan and chitin using reciprocal oligosaccharide probes.

PubMed

Mravec, Jozef; Kračun, Stjepan K; Rydahl, Maja G; Westereng, Bjørge; Miart, Fabien; Clausen, Mads H; Fangel, Jonatan U; Daugaard, Mathilde; Van Cutsem, Pierre; De Fine Licht, Henrik H; Höfte, Herman; Malinovsky, Frederikke G; Domozych, David S; Willats, William G T

2014-12-01

Polysaccharides are major components of extracellular matrices and are often extensively modified post-synthetically to suit local requirements and developmental programmes. However, our current understanding of the spatiotemporal dynamics and functional significance of these modifications is limited by a lack of suitable molecular tools. Here, we report the development of a novel non-immunological approach for producing highly selective reciprocal oligosaccharide-based probes for chitosan (the product of chitin deacetylation) and for demethylesterified homogalacturonan. Specific reciprocal binding is mediated by the unique stereochemical arrangement of oppositely charged amino and carboxy groups. Conjugation of oligosaccharides to fluorophores or gold nanoparticles enables direct and rapid imaging of homogalacturonan and chitosan with unprecedented precision in diverse plant, fungal and animal systems. We demonstrated their potential for providing new biological insights by using them to study homogalacturonan processing during Arabidopsis thaliana root cap development and by analyzing sites of chitosan deposition in fungal cell walls and arthropod exoskeletons. © 2014. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

The splicing activator DAZAP1 integrates splicing control into MEK/Erk-regulated cell proliferation and migration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choudhury, Rajarshi; Roy, Sreerupa Ghose; Tsai, Yihsuan S.; Tripathy, Ashutosh; Graves, Lee M.; Wang, Zefeng

2014-01-01

Alternative splicing of pre-messenger RNA (mRNA) is a critical stage of gene regulation in response to environmental stimuli. Here we show that DAZAP1, an RNA-binding protein involved in mammalian development and spermatogenesis, promotes inclusion of weak exons through specific recognition of diverse cis-elements. The carboxy-terminal proline-rich domain of DAZAP1 interacts with and neutralizes general splicing inhibitors, and is sufficient to activate splicing when recruited to pre-mRNA. This domain is phosphorylated by the MEK/Erk (extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase) pathway and this modification is essential for the splicing regulatory activity and the nuclear/cytoplasmic translocation of DAZAP1. Using mRNA-seq, we identify endogenous splicing events regulated by DAZAP1, many of which are involved in maintaining cell growth. Knockdown or over-expression of DAZAP1 causes a cell proliferation defect. Taken together, these studies reveal a molecular mechanism that integrates splicing control into MEK/Erk-regulated cell proliferation.

Crystal structure of rhodopsin bound to arrestin by femtosecond X-ray laser

DOE PAGES

Kang, Yanyong; Zhou, X. Edward; Gao, Xiang; ...

2015-07-22

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) signal primarily through G proteins or arrestins. Arrestin binding to GPCRs blocks G protein interaction and redirects signalling to numerous G-protein-independent pathways. Here we report the crystal structure of a constitutively active form of human rhodopsin bound to a pre-activated form of the mouse visual arrestin, determined by serial femtosecond X-ray laser crystallography. Together with extensive biochemical and mutagenesis data, the structure reveals an overall architecture of the rhodopsin-arrestin assembly in which rhodopsin uses distinct structural elements, including transmembrane helix 7 and helix 8, to recruit arrestin. Correspondingly, arrestin adopts the pre-activated conformation, with a ~20° rotationmore » between the amino and carboxy domains, which opens up a cleft in arrestin to accommodate a short helix formed by the second intracellular loop of rhodopsin. In conclusion, this structure provides a basis for understanding GPCR-mediated arrestin-biased signalling and demonstrates the power of X-ray lasers for advancing the frontiers of structural biology.« less

The forkhead transcription factor FoxY regulates Nanos

PubMed Central

Song, Jia L.; Wessel, Gary M.

2012-01-01

FoxY is a member of the forkhead transcription factor family that appeared enriched in the presumptive germ line of sea urchins (Ransick et al., 2002, Dev Biol 246:132). Here we test the hypothesis that FoxY is involved in germ line determination in this animal. We found two splice forms of FoxY that share the same DNA-binding domain but vary in the carboxy-terminal trans-activation/repression domain. Both forms of the FoxY protein are present in the ovary and in the early embryo, and their mRNAs accumulate to their highest levels in the small micromeres and adjacent non-skeletogenic mesoderm. Knockdown of FoxY resulted in a dramatic decrease in the Nanos mRNA and protein levels as well as a loss of coelomic pouches in the 2-week-old larvae. Our results indicate that FoxY positively regulates Nanos at the transcriptional level and is essential for reproductive potential in this organism. PMID:22777754

The forkhead transcription factor FoxY regulates Nanos.

PubMed

Song, Jia L; Wessel, Gary M

2012-10-01

FoxY is a member of the forkhead transcription factor family that appeared enriched in the presumptive germ line of sea urchins (Ransick et al. Dev Biol 2002;246:132). Here, we test the hypothesis that FoxY is involved in germ line determination in this animal. We found two splice forms of FoxY that share the same DNA-binding domain, but vary in the carboxy-terminal trans-activation/repression domain. Both forms of the FoxY protein are present in the egg and in the early embryo, and their mRNAs accumulate to their highest levels in the small micromeres and adjacent non-skeletogenic mesoderm. Knockdown of FoxY resulted in a dramatic decrease in Nanos mRNA and protein levels as well as a loss of coelomic pouches in 2-week-old larvae. Our results indicate that FoxY positively regulates Nanos at the transcriptional level and is essential for reproductive potential in this organism. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Role of IRS-2 in insulin and cytokine signalling.

PubMed

Sun, X J; Wang, L M; Zhang, Y; Yenush, L; Myers, M G; Glasheen, E; Lane, W S; Pierce, J H; White, M F

1995-09-14

The protein IRS-1 acts as an interface between signalling proteins with Src-homology-2 domains (SH2 proteins) and the receptors for insulin, IGF-1, growth hormone, several interleukins (IL-4, IL-9, IL-13) and other cytokines. It regulates gene expression and stimulates mitogenesis, and appears to mediate insulin/IGF-1-stimulated glucose transport. Thus, survival of the IRS-1-/- mouse with only mild resistance to insulin was surprising. This dilemma is provisionally resolved with our discovery of a second IRS-signalling protein. We purified and cloned a likely candidate called 4PS from myeloid progenitor cells and, because of its resemblance to IRS-1, we designate it IRS-2. Alignment of the sequences of IRS-2 and IRS-1 revealed a highly conserved amino terminus containing a pleckstrin-homology domain and a phosphotyrosine-binding domain, and a poorly conserved carboxy terminus containing several tyrosine phosphorylation motifs. IRS-2 is expressed in many cells, including tissues from IRS-1-/- mice, and may be essential for signalling by several receptor systems.

Rqc2p and 60S ribosomal subunits mediate mRNA-independent elongation of nascent chains

PubMed Central

Shen, Peter S.; Park, Joseph; Qin, Yidan; Li, Xueming; Parsawar, Krishna; Larson, Matthew H.; Cox, James; Cheng, Yifan; Lambowitz, Alan M.; Weissman, Jonathan S.; Brandman, Onn; Frost, Adam

2015-01-01

In Eukarya, stalled translation induces 40S dissociation and recruitment of the Ribosome Quality control Complex (RQC) to the 60S subunit, which mediates nascent chain degradation. Here, we report cryoEM structures revealing that the RQC components Rqc2p (YPL009C/Tae2) and Ltn1p (YMR247C/Rkr1) bind to the 60S at sites exposed after 40S dissociation, placing the Ltn1p RING domain near the exit channel and Rqc2p over the P-site tRNA. We further demonstrate that Rqc2p recruits alanine and threonine charged tRNA to the A-site and directs elongation of nascent chains independently of mRNA or 40S subunits. Our work uncovers an unexpected mechanism of protein synthesis in which a protein—not an mRNA—determines tRNA recruitment and the tagging of nascent chains with Carboxy-terminal Ala and Thr extensions (“CAT tails”). PMID:25554787

Crystal structure of rhodopsin bound to arrestin by femtosecond X-ray laser.

PubMed

Kang, Yanyong; Zhou, X Edward; Gao, Xiang; He, Yuanzheng; Liu, Wei; Ishchenko, Andrii; Barty, Anton; White, Thomas A; Yefanov, Oleksandr; Han, Gye Won; Xu, Qingping; de Waal, Parker W; Ke, Jiyuan; Tan, M H Eileen; Zhang, Chenghai; Moeller, Arne; West, Graham M; Pascal, Bruce D; Van Eps, Ned; Caro, Lydia N; Vishnivetskiy, Sergey A; Lee, Regina J; Suino-Powell, Kelly M; Gu, Xin; Pal, Kuntal; Ma, Jinming; Zhi, Xiaoyong; Boutet, Sébastien; Williams, Garth J; Messerschmidt, Marc; Gati, Cornelius; Zatsepin, Nadia A; Wang, Dingjie; James, Daniel; Basu, Shibom; Roy-Chowdhury, Shatabdi; Conrad, Chelsie E; Coe, Jesse; Liu, Haiguang; Lisova, Stella; Kupitz, Christopher; Grotjohann, Ingo; Fromme, Raimund; Jiang, Yi; Tan, Minjia; Yang, Huaiyu; Li, Jun; Wang, Meitian; Zheng, Zhong; Li, Dianfan; Howe, Nicole; Zhao, Yingming; Standfuss, Jörg; Diederichs, Kay; Dong, Yuhui; Potter, Clinton S; Carragher, Bridget; Caffrey, Martin; Jiang, Hualiang; Chapman, Henry N; Spence, John C H; Fromme, Petra; Weierstall, Uwe; Ernst, Oliver P; Katritch, Vsevolod; Gurevich, Vsevolod V; Griffin, Patrick R; Hubbell, Wayne L; Stevens, Raymond C; Cherezov, Vadim; Melcher, Karsten; Xu, H Eric

2015-07-30

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) signal primarily through G proteins or arrestins. Arrestin binding to GPCRs blocks G protein interaction and redirects signalling to numerous G-protein-independent pathways. Here we report the crystal structure of a constitutively active form of human rhodopsin bound to a pre-activated form of the mouse visual arrestin, determined by serial femtosecond X-ray laser crystallography. Together with extensive biochemical and mutagenesis data, the structure reveals an overall architecture of the rhodopsin-arrestin assembly in which rhodopsin uses distinct structural elements, including transmembrane helix 7 and helix 8, to recruit arrestin. Correspondingly, arrestin adopts the pre-activated conformation, with a ∼20° rotation between the amino and carboxy domains, which opens up a cleft in arrestin to accommodate a short helix formed by the second intracellular loop of rhodopsin. This structure provides a basis for understanding GPCR-mediated arrestin-biased signalling and demonstrates the power of X-ray lasers for advancing the frontiers of structural biology.

Mena binds α5 integrin directly and modulates α5β1 function.

PubMed

Gupton, Stephanie L; Riquelme, Daisy; Hughes-Alford, Shannon K; Tadros, Jenny; Rudina, Shireen S; Hynes, Richard O; Lauffenburger, Douglas; Gertler, Frank B

2012-08-20

Mena is an Ena/VASP family actin regulator with roles in cell migration, chemotaxis, cell-cell adhesion, tumor cell invasion, and metastasis. Although enriched in focal adhesions, Mena has no established function within these structures. We find that Mena forms an adhesion-regulated complex with α5β1 integrin, a fibronectin receptor involved in cell adhesion, motility, fibronectin fibrillogenesis, signaling, and growth factor receptor trafficking. Mena bound directly to the carboxy-terminal portion of the α5 cytoplasmic tail via a 91-residue region containing 13 five-residue "LERER" repeats. In fibroblasts, the Mena-α5 complex was required for "outside-in" α5β1 functions, including normal phosphorylation of FAK and paxillin and formation of fibrillar adhesions. It also supported fibrillogenesis and cell spreading and controlled cell migration speed. Thus, fibroblasts require Mena for multiple α5β1-dependent processes involving bidirectional interactions between the extracellular matrix and cytoplasmic focal adhesion proteins.

Mena binds α5 integrin directly and modulates α5β1 function

PubMed Central

Riquelme, Daisy; Hughes-Alford, Shannon K.; Tadros, Jenny; Rudina, Shireen S.; O.Hynes, Richard; Lauffenburger, Douglas

2012-01-01

Mena is an Ena/VASP family actin regulator with roles in cell migration, chemotaxis, cell–cell adhesion, tumor cell invasion, and metastasis. Although enriched in focal adhesions, Mena has no established function within these structures. We find that Mena forms an adhesion-regulated complex with α5β1 integrin, a fibronectin receptor involved in cell adhesion, motility, fibronectin fibrillogenesis, signaling, and growth factor receptor trafficking. Mena bound directly to the carboxy-terminal portion of the α5 cytoplasmic tail via a 91-residue region containing 13 five-residue “LERER” repeats. In fibroblasts, the Mena–α5 complex was required for “outside-in” α5β1 functions, including normal phosphorylation of FAK and paxillin and formation of fibrillar adhesions. It also supported fibrillogenesis and cell spreading and controlled cell migration speed. Thus, fibroblasts require Mena for multiple α5β1-dependent processes involving bidirectional interactions between the extracellular matrix and cytoplasmic focal adhesion proteins. PMID:22908313

Crystal structure of rhodopsin bound to arrestin by femtosecond X-ray laser

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kang, Yanyong; Zhou, X. Edward; Gao, Xiang

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) signal primarily through G proteins or arrestins. Arrestin binding to GPCRs blocks G protein interaction and redirects signalling to numerous G-protein-independent pathways. Here we report the crystal structure of a constitutively active form of human rhodopsin bound to a pre-activated form of the mouse visual arrestin, determined by serial femtosecond X-ray laser crystallography. Together with extensive biochemical and mutagenesis data, the structure reveals an overall architecture of the rhodopsin-arrestin assembly in which rhodopsin uses distinct structural elements, including transmembrane helix 7 and helix 8, to recruit arrestin. Correspondingly, arrestin adopts the pre-activated conformation, with a ~20° rotationmore » between the amino and carboxy domains, which opens up a cleft in arrestin to accommodate a short helix formed by the second intracellular loop of rhodopsin. In conclusion, this structure provides a basis for understanding GPCR-mediated arrestin-biased signalling and demonstrates the power of X-ray lasers for advancing the frontiers of structural biology.« less

Mapping the nuclear localization signal in the matrix protein of potato yellow dwarf virus.

PubMed

Anderson, Gavin; Jang, Chanyong; Wang, Renyuan; Goodin, Michael

2018-05-01

The ability of the matrix (M) protein of potato yellow dwarf virus (PYDV) to remodel nuclear membranes is controlled by a di-leucine motif located at residues 223 and 224 of its primary structure. This function can be uncoupled from that of its nuclear localization signal (NLS), which is controlled primarily by lysine and arginine residues immediately downstream of the LL motif. In planta localization of green fluorescent protein fusions, bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays with nuclear import receptor importin-α1 and yeast-based nuclear import assays provided three independent experimental approaches to validate the authenticity of the M-NLS. The carboxy terminus of M is predicted to contain a nuclear export signal, which is belived to be functional, given the ability of M to bind the Arabidopsis nuclear export receptor 1 (XPO1). The nuclear shuttle activity of M has implications for the cell-to-cell movement of PYDV nucleocapsids, based upon its interaction with the N and Y proteins.

Structural and functional characterization of a cell cycle associated HDAC1/2 complex reveals the structural basis for complex assembly and nucleosome targeting

PubMed Central

Itoh, Toshimasa; Fairall, Louise; Muskett, Frederick W.; Milano, Charles P.; Watson, Peter J.; Arnaudo, Nadia; Saleh, Almutasem; Millard, Christopher J.; El-Mezgueldi, Mohammed; Martino, Fabrizio; Schwabe, John W.R.

2015-01-01

Recent proteomic studies have identified a novel histone deacetylase complex that is upregulated during mitosis and is associated with cyclin A. This complex is conserved from nematodes to man and contains histone deacetylases 1 and 2, the MIDEAS corepressor protein and a protein called DNTTIP1 whose function was hitherto poorly understood. Here, we report the structures of two domains from DNTTIP1. The amino-terminal region forms a tight dimerization domain with a novel structural fold that interacts with and mediates assembly of the HDAC1:MIDEAS complex. The carboxy-terminal domain of DNTTIP1 has a structure related to the SKI/SNO/DAC domain, despite lacking obvious sequence homology. We show that this domain in DNTTIP1 mediates interaction with both DNA and nucleosomes. Thus, DNTTIP1 acts as a dimeric chromatin binding module in the HDAC1:MIDEAS corepressor complex. PMID:25653165

Analysis of a developmentally regulated nuclear localization signal in Xenopus

PubMed Central

1992-01-01

The 289 residue nuclear oncoprotein encoded by the adenovirus 5 Ela gene contains two peptide sequences that behave as nuclear localization signals (NLS). One signal, located at the carboxy terminus, is like many other known NLSs in that it consists of a short stretch of basic residues (KRPRP) and is constitutively active in cells. The second signal resides within an internal 45 residue region of E1a that contains few basic residues or sequences that resemble other known NLSs. Moreover, this internal signal functions in injected Xenopus oocytes, but not in transfected Xenopus A6 cells, suggesting that it could be regulated developmentally (Slavicek et al. 1989. J. Virol. 63:4047). In this study, we show that the activity of this signal is sensitive to ATP depletion in vivo, efficiently directs the import of a 50 kD fusion protein and can compete with the E1a carboxy-terminal NLS for nuclear import. In addition, we have delineated the precise amino acid residues that comprise the second E1a NLS, and have assessed its utilization during Xenopus embryogenesis. Using amino acid deletion and substitution analyses, we show that the signal consists of the sequence FV(X)7-20MXSLXYM(X)4MF. By expressing in Xenopus embryos a truncated E1a protein that contains only the second NLS and by monitoring its cytoplasmic/nuclear distribution during development with indirect immunofluorescence, we find that the second NLS is utilized up to the early neurula stage. In addition, there appears to be a hierarchy among the embryonic germ layers as to when the second NLS becomes nonfunctional. For this reason, we refer to this NLS as the developmentally regulated nuclear localization signal (drNLS). The implications of these findings for early development are discussed. PMID:1387407

Boron-based dual imaging probes, compositions and methods for rapid aqueous F-18 labeling, and imaging methods using same

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Zibo; Gabbai, Francois P.; Conti, Peter S.

A composition useful as a PET and/or fluorescence imaging probe a compound a compound of Formula I, including salts, hydrates and solvates thereof: ##STR00001## wherein R.sub.1-R.sub.7 may be independently selected from hydrogen, halogen, hydroxy, alkoxy, nitro, substituted and unsubstituted amino, cycloalkyl, carboxy, carboxylic acids and esters thereof, cyano, haloalkyl, aryl, X is selected from the group consisting of C and N; and A is selected of hydrogen, halogen, hydroxy, alkoxy, nitro, substituted and unsubstituted amino, alkyl, cycloalkyl, carboxy, carboxylic acids and esters thereof, cyano, haloalkyl, aryl, including phenyl and aminophenyl, and heteroaryl.

Hydrazinolysis of heparin and other glycosaminoglycans.

PubMed Central

Shaklee, P N; Conrad, H E

1984-01-01

Heparin, carboxy-group-reduced heparin, several sulphated monosaccharides and disaccharides formed from heparin, and a tetrasaccharide prepared from chondroitin sulphate were treated at 100 degrees C with hydrazine containing 1% hydrazine sulphate for periods sufficient to cause complete N-deacetylation of the N-acetylhexosamine residues. Under these hydrazinolysis conditions both the N-sulphate and the O-sulphate substituents on these compounds were completely stable. However, the uronic acid residues were converted into their hydrazide derivatives at rates that depended on the uronic acid structures. Unsubstituted L-iduronic acid residues reacted much more slowly than did unsubstituted D-glucuronic acid or 2-O-sulphated L-iduronic acid residues. The chemical modification of the carboxy groups resulted in a low rate of C-5 epimerization of the uronic acid residues. The hydrazinolysis reaction also caused a partial depolymerization of heparin but not of carboxy-group-reduced heparin. Treatment of the hydrazinolysis products with HNO2 at either pH 4 or pH 1.5 or with HIO3 converted the uronic acid hydrazides back into uronic acid residues. The use of the hydrazinolysis reaction in studies of the structures of uronic acid-containing polymers and the implications of the uronic acid hydrazide formation are discussed. PMID:6421280

Qiliqiangxin inhibits the development of cardiac hypertrophy, remodeling, and dysfunction during 4 weeks of pressure overload in mice.

PubMed

Zou, Yunzeng; Lin, Li; Ye, Yong; Wei, Jianming; Zhou, Ning; Liang, Yanyan; Gong, Hui; Li, Lei; Wu, Jian; Li, Yunbo; Jia, Zhenhua; Wu, Yiling; Zhou, Jingmin; Ge, Junbo

2012-03-01

Qiliqiangxin (QL), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been used in the treatment of chronic heart failure. However, whether QL can benefit cardiac remodeling in the hypertensive state is unknown. We here examined the effects of QL on the development of cardiac hypertrophy through comparing those of losartan in C57BL/6 mice underlying transverse aorta constriction for 4 weeks. QL and losartan were administrated at 0.6 mg and 13.4 mg·kg·d, respectively. Cardiac hypertrophy, function, and remodeling were evaluated by echocardiography, catheterization, histology, and examination of specific gene expression and ERK phosphorylation. Cardiac apoptosis, autophagy, tumor necrosis factor α/insulin-like growth factor-1, and angiotensin II type 1 receptor expression and especially the proliferation of cardiomyocytes and phosphorylation of ErbB receptors were examined in vivo to elucidate the mechanisms. Transverse aorta constriction for 2 weeks resulted in a significant cardiac hypertrophy, which was significantly suppressed by either QL or losartan treatment. At 4 weeks after transverse aorta constriction, although the development of cardiac dysfunction and remodeling and the increases in apoptosis, autophagy, tumor necrosis factor α/insulin-like growth factor-1, and angiotensin II type 1 receptor expression were abrogated comparably between QL and losartan treatments, QL, but not losartan, enhanced proliferation of cardiomyocytes, which was paralleled with dowregulation of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β, upregulation of CBP/p300-interacting transactivator with ED-rich carboxy-terminal domain 4, and increases in ErbB2 and ErbB4 phosphorylation. Furthermore, inhibition of either ErbB2 or CBP/p300-interacting transactivator with ED-rich carboxy-terminal domain 4 abolished the cardiac protective effects of QL. Thus, QL inhibits myocardial inflammation and cardiomyocyte death and promotes cardiomyocyte proliferation, leading to an ameliorated cardiac remodeling and function in a mouse model of pressure overload. The possible mechanisms may involve inhibition of angiotensin II type 1 receptor and activation of ErbB receptors.

[False positive serum des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma].

PubMed

Hiramatsu, Kumiko; Tanaka, Yasuhito; Takagi, Kazumi; Iida, Takayasu; Takasaka, Yoshimitsu; Mizokami, Masashi

2007-04-01

Measurements of serum concentrations of des-gamma-carboxy-prothrombin (PIVKA-II) are widely used for diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recently, when we evaluated the correlation of PIVKA-II between two commercially available PIVKA-II immunoassay kits (Lumipulse f vs. Picolumi) to introduce it in our hospital, false high values of PIVKA-II were observed in Lumipulse assay. Four(4%) of 100 serum samples showed false high values, and all of them were obtained from patients less than 2 month after curative resection of HCC. Examining additional 7 patients with HCC resection, serum samples from the 5 patients had the same trend. To elucidate the non-specific reaction by Lumipulse assay which utilized alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enzymatic reaction, inhibition assays by various absorbents such as inactive ALP and IgM antibodies were performed. Excess of inactive ALP reduced the high values of PIVKA-II. Note that anti-bleeding sheets (fibrinogen combined drug), which included bovine thrombin, were directly attached on liver of all patients with HCC resection in this study. As the sheets also contaminate ALP and probably produce IgM antibodies to ALP, the IgM may cross-react with anti-PIVKA-II antibodies directly. Taken together, it was suggested that produced antibodies against ALP derived from anti-bleeding sheets led false high values of PIVKA-II in the patients with HCC resection.

Homologous gene replacement in Physarum

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Burland, T.G.; Pallotta, D.

1995-01-01

The protist Physarum polycephalum is useful for analysis of several aspects of cellular and developmental biology. To expand the opportunities for experimental analysis of this organism, we have developed a method for gene replacement. We transformed Physarum amoebae with plasmid DNA carrying a mutant allele, ardD{Delta}1, of the ardD actin gene; ardD{Delta}1 mutates the critical carboxy-terminal region of the gene product. Because ardD is not expressed in the amoeba, replacement of ardD{sup +} with ardD{Delta}1 should not be lethal for this cell type. Transformants were obtained only when linear plasmid DNA was used. Most transformants carried one copy of ardD{Delta}1more » in addition to ardD{sup +}, but in two (5%), ardD{sup +} was replaced by a single copy of ardD{Delta}1. This is the first example of homologous gene replacement in Physarum. ardD{Delta}1 was stably maintained in the genome through growth, development and meiosis. We found no effect of ardD{Delta}l on viability, growth, or development of any of the various cell types of Physarum. Thus, the carboxy-terminal region of the ardD product appears not to perform a unique essential role in growth or development. Nevertheless, this method for homologous gene replacement can be applied to analyze the function of any cloned gene. 38 refs., 6 figs., 1 tab.« less

Ultrasensitive peroxynitrite-based luminescence with L-012 as a screening system for antioxidative/antinitrating substances, e.g. Tylenol (acetaminophen), 4-OH tempol, quercetin and carboxy-PTIO.

PubMed

Van Dyke, Knox; Ghareeb, Erica; Van Dyke, Mark; Van Thiel, David H

2007-01-01

Previously our group developed a water-soluble antioxidant screening system using the luminescence of the reaction of peroxynitrite and luminol. In the present study we replaced luminol with the luminol-like compound L-012. This increases the production of luminescence approximately 100-fold and therefore, with a higher signal:noise ratio, this new system can detect antioxidation and antinitration effects at lower doses of the inhibitor. We studied acetaminophen (Tylenol) and its metabolite 3-nitroacetaminophen, tyrosine and nitrotyrosine and all these substances were inhibitory in a dose-responsive manner and below micromolar amounts. In addition quercetin, a polyphenol, was highly active (below micromolar amounts) as an antioxidant and antinitrating compound. 4-OH tempol, the stable free radical, superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic, was inhibitory in a dose-responsive manner and below micromolar amounts. Carboxy-PTIO was inhibitory at 10 times micromolar amount but not below that dose, which may be related to colour quenching, since the drug is deeply blue, or possibly it is an inhibitor with a slow kinetic profile. Finally, the amino acid tyrosine has been found to be inhibitory in micromolar amounts, similar to acetaminophen. This indicates that tyrosine can act as an antioxidant and antinitration target alone or conjugated in protein, e.g. insulin. (c) 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

MinC/MinD copolymers are not required for Min function

PubMed Central

Park, Kyung-Tae; Du, Shishen; Lutkenhaus, Joe

2015-01-01

Summary In Escherichia coli, precise placement of the cytokinetic Z ring at midcell requires the concerted action of the three Min proteins. MinD activates MinC, an inhibitor of FtsZ, at least in part, by recruiting it to the membrane and targeting it to the Z ring, while MinE stimulates the MinD ATPase inducing an oscillation that directs MinC/MinD activity away from midcell. Recently, MinC and MinD were shown to form copolymers of alternating dimers of MinC and MinD and it was suggested that these copolymers are the active form of MinC/MinD. Here, we use MinD mutants defective in binding MinC to generate heterodimers with wild type MinD that are unable to form MinC/MinD copolymers. Similarly, MinC mutants defective in binding to MinD were used to generate heterodimers with wild type MinC that are unable to form copolymers. Such heterodimers are active and in the case of MinC were shown to mediate spatial regulation of the Z ring demonstrating that MinC/MinD copolymer formation is not required. Our results are consistent with a model in which a membrane anchored MinC/MinD complex is targeted to the Z ring through the conserved carboxy tail of FtsZ leading to breakage of FtsZ filaments. PMID:26268537

Fission yeast RNA triphosphatase reads an Spt5 CTD code

DOE PAGES

Doamekpor, Selom K.; Schwer, Beate; Sanchez, Ana M.; ...

2014-11-20

mRNA capping enzymes are directed to nascent RNA polymerase II (Pol2) transcripts via interactions with the carboxy-terminal domains (CTDs) of Pol2 and transcription elongation factor Spt5. Fission yeast RNA triphosphatase binds to the Spt5 CTD, comprising a tandem repeat of nonapeptide motif TPAWNSGSK. Here we report the crystal structure of a Pct1·Spt5-CTD complex, which revealed two CTD docking sites on the Pct1 homodimer that engage TPAWN segments of the motif. Each Spt5 CTD interface, composed of elements from both subunits of the homodimer, is dominated by van der Waals contacts from Pct1 to the tryptophan of the CTD. The boundmore » CTD adopts a distinctive conformation in which the peptide backbone makes a tight U-turn so that the proline stacks over the tryptophan. We show that Pct1 binding to Spt5 CTD is antagonized by threonine phosphorylation. Our results fortify an emerging concept of an “Spt5 CTD code” in which (i) the Spt5 CTD is structurally plastic and can adopt different conformations that are templated by particular cellular Spt5 CTD receptor proteins; and (ii) threonine phosphorylation of the Spt5 CTD repeat inscribes a binary on–off switch that is read by diverse CTD receptors, each in its own distinctive manner.« less

Fission yeast RNA triphosphatase reads an Spt5 CTD code

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Doamekpor, Selom K.; Schwer, Beate; Sanchez, Ana M.

mRNA capping enzymes are directed to nascent RNA polymerase II (Pol2) transcripts via interactions with the carboxy-terminal domains (CTDs) of Pol2 and transcription elongation factor Spt5. Fission yeast RNA triphosphatase binds to the Spt5 CTD, comprising a tandem repeat of nonapeptide motif TPAWNSGSK. Here we report the crystal structure of a Pct1·Spt5-CTD complex, which revealed two CTD docking sites on the Pct1 homodimer that engage TPAWN segments of the motif. Each Spt5 CTD interface, composed of elements from both subunits of the homodimer, is dominated by van der Waals contacts from Pct1 to the tryptophan of the CTD. The boundmore » CTD adopts a distinctive conformation in which the peptide backbone makes a tight U-turn so that the proline stacks over the tryptophan. We show that Pct1 binding to Spt5 CTD is antagonized by threonine phosphorylation. Our results fortify an emerging concept of an “Spt5 CTD code” in which (i) the Spt5 CTD is structurally plastic and can adopt different conformations that are templated by particular cellular Spt5 CTD receptor proteins; and (ii) threonine phosphorylation of the Spt5 CTD repeat inscribes a binary on–off switch that is read by diverse CTD receptors, each in its own distinctive manner.« less

Core Histones and HIRIP3, a Novel Histone-Binding Protein, Directly Interact with WD Repeat Protein HIRA

PubMed Central

Lorain, Stéphanie; Quivy, Jean-Pierre; Monier-Gavelle, Frédérique; Scamps, Christine; Lécluse, Yann; Almouzni, Geneviève; Lipinski, Marc

1998-01-01

The human HIRA gene has been named after Hir1p and Hir2p, two corepressors which together appear to act on chromatin structure to control gene transcription in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. HIRA homologs are expressed in a regulated fashion during mouse and chicken embryogenesis, and the human gene is a major candidate for the DiGeorge syndrome and related developmental disorders caused by a reduction to single dose of a fragment of chromosome 22q. Western blot analysis and double-immunofluorescence experiments using a specific antiserum revealed a primary nuclear localization of HIRA. Similar to Hir1p, HIRA contains seven amino-terminal WD repeats and probably functions as part of a multiprotein complex. HIRA and core histone H2B were found to physically interact in a yeast double-hybrid protein interaction trap, in GST pull-down assays, and in coimmunoprecipitation experiments performed from cellular extracts. In vitro, HIRA also interacted with core histone H4. H2B- and H4-binding domains were overlapping but distinguishable in the carboxy-terminal region of HIRA, and the region for HIRA interaction was mapped to the amino-terminal tail of H2B and the second α helix of H4. HIRIP3 (HIRA-interacting protein 3) is a novel gene product that was identified from its HIRA-binding properties in the yeast protein interaction trap. In vitro, HIRIP3 directly interacted with HIRA but also with core histones H2B and H3, suggesting that a HIRA-HIRIP3-containing complex could function in some aspects of chromatin and histone metabolism. Insufficient production of HIRA, which we report elsewhere interacts with homeodomain-containing DNA-binding factors during mammalian embryogenesis, could perturb the stoichiometric assembly of multimolecular complexes required for normal embryonic development. PMID:9710638

The co-crystal structure of ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) with a tripeptide fluoromethyl ketone (Z-VAE(OMe)-FMK)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Davies, Christopher W.; Chaney, Joseph; Korbel, Gregory

2012-07-25

UCHL1 is a 223 amino acid member of the UCH family of deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs), found abundantly and exclusively expressed in neurons and the testis in normal tissues. Two naturally occurring variants of UCHL1 are directly involved in Parkinson's disease (PD). Not only has UCHL1 been linked to PD, but it has oncogenic properties, having been found abnormally expressed in lung, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. Although inhibitors of UCHL1 have been described previously the co-crystal structure of the enzyme bound to any inhibitor has not been reported. Herein, we report the X-ray structure of UCHL1 co-crystallized with a peptide-based fluoromethylketonemore » inhibitor, Z-VAE(OMe)-FMK (VAEFMK) at 2.35 {angstrom} resolution. The co-crystal structure reveals that the inhibitor binds in the active-site cleft, irreversibly modifying the active-site cysteine; however, the catalytic histidine is still misaligned as seen in the native structure, suggesting that the inhibitor binds to an inactive form of the enzyme. Our structure also reveals that the inhibitor approaches the active-site cleft from the opposite side of the crossover loop as compared to the direction of approach of ubiquitin's C-terminal tail, thereby occupying the P1{prime} (leaving group) site, a binding site perhaps used by the unknown C-terminal extension of ubiquitin in the actual in vivo substrate(s) of UCHL1. This structure provides a view of molecular contacts at the active-site cleft between the inhibitor and the enzyme as well as furnishing structural information needed to facilitate further design of inhibitors targeted to UCHL1 with high selectivity and potency.« less

NHERF Links the N-Cadherin/Catenin Complex to the Platelet-derived Growth Factor Receptor to Modulate the Actin Cytoskeleton and Regulate Cell Motility

PubMed Central

Theisen, Christopher S.; Wahl, James K.; Johnson, Keith R.

2007-01-01

Using phage display, we identified Na+/H+ exchanger regulatory factor (NHERF)-2 as a novel binding partner for the cadherin-associated protein, β-catenin. We showed that the second of two PSD-95/Dlg/ZO-1 (PDZ) domains of NHERF interacts with a PDZ-binding motif at the very carboxy terminus of β-catenin. N-cadherin expression has been shown to induce motility in a number of cell types. The first PDZ domain of NHERF is known to bind platelet-derived growth factor-receptor β (PDGF-Rβ), and the interaction of PDGF-Rβ with NHERF leads to enhanced cell spreading and motility. Here we show that β-catenin and N-cadherin are in a complex with NHERF and PDGF-Rβ at membrane ruffles in the highly invasive fibrosarcoma cell line HT1080. Using a stable short hairpin RNA system, we showed that HT1080 cells knocked down for either N-cadherin or NHERF had impaired ability to migrate into the wounded area in a scratch assay, similar to cells treated with a PDGF-R kinase inhibitor. Cells expressing a mutant NHERF that is unable to associate with β-catenin had increased stress fibers, reduced lamellipodia, and impaired cell migration. Using HeLa cells, which express little to no PDGF-R, we introduced PDGF-Rβ and showed that it coimmunoprecipitates with N-cadherin and that PDGF-dependent cell migration was reduced in these cells when we knocked-down expression of N-cadherin or NHERF. These studies implicate N-cadherin and β-catenin in cell migration via PDGF-R–mediated signaling through the scaffolding molecule NHERF. PMID:17229887

The influence of antibody fragment format on phage display based affinity maturation of IgG

PubMed Central

Steinwand, Miriam; Droste, Patrick; Frenzel, Andrè; Hust, Michael; Dübel, Stefan; Schirrmann, Thomas

2014-01-01

Today, most approved therapeutic antibodies are provided as immunoglobulin G (IgG), whereas small recombinant antibody formats are required for in vitro antibody generation and engineering during drug development. Particularly, single chain (sc) antibody fragments like scFv or scFab are well suited for phage display and bacterial expression, but some have been found to lose affinity during conversion into IgG.   In this study, we compared the influence of the antibody format on affinity maturation of the CD30-specific scFv antibody fragment SH313-F9, with the overall objective being improvement of the IgG. The variable genes of SH313-F9 were randomly mutated and then cloned into libraries encoding different recombinant antibody formats, including scFv, Fab, scFabΔC, and FabΔC. All tested antibody formats except Fab allowed functional phage display of the parental antibody SH313-F9, and the corresponding mutated antibody gene libraries allowed isolation of candidates with enhanced CD30 binding. Moreover, scFv and scFabΔC antibody variants retained improved antigen binding after subcloning into the single gene encoded IgG-like formats scFv-Fc or scIgG, but lost affinity after conversion into IgGs. Only affinity maturation using the Fab-like FabΔC format, which does not contain the carboxy terminal cysteines, allowed successful selection of molecules with improved binding that was retained after conversion to IgG. Thus, affinity maturation of IgGs is dependent on the antibody format employed for selection and screening. In this study, only FabΔC resulted in the efficient selection of IgG candidates with higher affinity by combination of Fab-like conformation and improved phage display compared with Fab. PMID:24262918

Effects of mutations within the SV40 large T antigen ATPase/p53 binding domain on viral replication and transformation.

PubMed

Peden, K W; Srinivasan, A; Vartikar, J V; Pipas, J M

1998-01-01

The simian virus 40 (SV40) large T antigen is a 708 amino-acid protein possessing multiple biochemical activities that play distinct roles in productive infection or virus-induced cell transformation. The carboxy-terminal portion of T antigen includes a domain that carries the nucleotide binding and ATPase activities of the protein, as well as sequences required for T antigen to associate with the cellular tumor suppressor p53. Consequently this domain functions both in viral DNA replication and cellular transformation. We have generated a collection of SV40 mutants with amino-acid deletions, insertions or substitutions in specific domains of the protein. Here we report the properties of nine mutants with single or multiple substitutions between amino acids 402 and 430, a region thought to be important for both the p53 binding and ATPase functions. The mutants were examined for the ability to produce infectious progeny virions, replicate viral DNA in vivo, perform in trans complementation tests, and transform established cell lines. Two of the mutants exhibited a wild-type phenotype in all these tests. The remaining seven mutants were defective for plaque formation and viral DNA replication, but in each case these defects could be complemented by a wild-type T antigen supplied in trans. One of these replication-defective mutants efficiently transformed the REF52 and C3H10T1/2 cell lines as assessed by the dense-focus assay. The remaining six mutants were defective for transforming REF52 cells and transformed the C3H10T1/2 line with a reduced efficiency. The ability of mutant T antigen to transform REF52 cells correlated with their ability to induce increased levels of p53.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Wei; Chakravarty, Bornali; Zheng, Fei

Human fatty acid synthase (hFAS) is a homodimeric multidomain enzyme that catalyzes a series of reactions leading to the de novo biosynthesis of long-chain fatty acids, mainly palmitate. The carboxy-terminal thioesterase (TE) domain determines the length of the fatty acyl chain and its ultimate release by hydrolysis. Because of the upregulation of hFAS in a variety of cancers, it is a target for antiproliferative agent development. Dietary long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been known to confer beneficial effects on many diseases and health conditions, including cancers, inflammations, diabetes, and heart diseases, but the precise molecular mechanisms involved have notmore » been elucidated. We report the crystal structure of the hFAS TE domain covalently modified and inactivated by methyl {gamma}-linolenylfluorophosphonate. Whereas the structure confirmed the phosphorylation by the phosphonate head group of the active site serine, it also unexpectedly revealed the binding of the 18-carbon polyunsaturated {gamma}-linolenyl tail in a long groove-tunnel site, which itself is formed mainly by the emergence of an {alpha} helix (the 'helix flap'). We then found inhibition of the TE domain activity by the PUFA dihomo-{gamma}-linolenic acid; {gamma}- and {alpha}-linolenic acids, two popular dietary PUFAs, were less effective. Dihomo-{gamma}-linolenic acid also inhibited fatty acid biosynthesis in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and selective human breast cancer cell lines, including SKBR3 and MDAMB231. In addition to revealing a novel mechanism for the molecular recognition of a polyunsaturated fatty acyl chain, our results offer a new framework for developing potent FAS inhibitors as therapeutics against cancers and other diseases.« less

Dopamine D1A directly interacts with otoferlin synaptic pathway proteins: Ca2+ and phosphorylation underlie an NSF-to-AP2mu1 molecular switch.

PubMed

Selvakumar, Dakshnamurthy; Drescher, Marian J; Deckard, Nathan A; Ramakrishnan, Neeliyath A; Morley, Barbara J; Drescher, Dennis G

2017-01-01

Dopamine receptors regulate exocytosis via protein-protein interactions (PPIs) as well as via adenylyl cyclase transduction pathways. Evidence has been obtained for PPIs in inner ear hair cells coupling D1A to soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) attachment protein receptor (SNARE)-related proteins snapin, otoferlin, N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF), and adaptor-related protein complex 2, mu 1 (AP2mu1), dependent on [Ca 2+ ] and phosphorylation. Specifically, the carboxy terminus of dopamine D1A was found to directly bind t-SNARE-associated protein snapin in teleost and mammalian hair cell models by yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) and pull-down assays, and snapin directly interacts with hair cell calcium-sensor otoferlin. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis, competitive pull-downs, and co-immunoprecipitation indicated that these interactions were promoted by Ca 2+ and occur together. D1A was also found to separately interact with NSF, but with an inverse dependence on Ca 2+ Evidence was obtained, for the first time, that otoferlin domains C2A, C2B, C2D, and C2F interact with NSF and AP2mu1, whereas C2C or C2E do not bind to either protein, representing binding characteristics consistent with respective inclusion or omission in individual C2 domains of the tyrosine motif YXXΦ. In competitive pull-down assays, as predicted by K D values from SPR (+Ca 2+ ), C2F pulled down primarily NSF as opposed to AP2mu1. Phosphorylation of AP2mu1 gave rise to a reversal: an increase in binding by C2F to phosphorylated AP2mu1 was accompanied by a decrease in binding to NSF, consistent with a molecular switch for otoferlin from membrane fusion (NSF) to endocytosis (AP2mu1). An increase in phosphorylated AP2mu1 at the base of the cochlear inner hair cell was the observed response elicited by a dopamine D1A agonist, as predicted. © 2017 The Author(s); published by Portland Press Limited on behalf of the Biochemical Society.

Characterization of the native form and the carboxy-terminally truncated halotolerant form of α-amylases from Bacillus subtilis strain FP-133.

PubMed

Takenaka, Shinji; Miyatake, Ayaka; Tanaka, Kosei; Kuntiya, Ampin; Techapun, Charin; Leksawasdi, Noppol; Seesuriyachan, Phisit; Chaiyaso, Thanongsak; Watanabe, Masanori; Yoshida, Ken-ichi

2015-06-01

Two amylases, amylase I and amylase II from Bacillus subtilis strain FP-133, were purified to homogeneity and characterized. Their stabilities toward temperature, pH, and organic solvents, and their substrate specificities toward polysaccharides and oligosaccharides were similar. Under moderately high salt conditions, both amylases were more stable than commercial B. licheniformis amylase, and amylase I retained higher amylase activity than amylase II. The N-terminal amino acid sequence, genomic southern blot analysis, and MALDI-TOFF-MS analysis indicated that the halotolerant amylase I was produced by limited carboxy-terminal truncation of the amylase II peptide. The deduced amino acid sequence of amylase II was >95% identical to that of previously reported B. subtilis α-amylases, but their carboxy-terminal truncation points differed. Three recombinant amylases--full-length amylase corresponding to amylase II, an artificially truncated amylase corresponding to amylase I, and an amylase with a larger artificial C-terminal truncation--were expressed in B. subtilis. The artificially truncated recombinant amylases had the same high amylase activity as amylase I under moderately high salt conditions. Sequence comparisons indicated that an increased ratio of Asp/Glu residues in the enzyme may be one factor responsible for increasing halotolerance. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

The Nitric Oxide Prodrug JS-K Induces Ca(2+)-Mediated Apoptosis in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma HepG2 Cells.

PubMed

Liu, Ling; Wang, Dongmei; Wang, Jiangang; Wang, Shuying

2016-04-01

Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most common and deadly forms of human malignancies. JS-K, O(2)-(2, 4-dinitrophenyl) 1-[(4-ethoxycarbonyl) piperazin-1-yl] diazen-1-ium-1, 2-diolate, has the ability to induce apoptosis of tumor cell lines. In the present study, JS-K inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner and significantly induced apoptosis. JS-K enhanced the ratio of Bax-to-Bcl-2, released of cytochrome c (Cyt c) from mitochondria and the activated caspase-9/3. JS-K caused an increasing cytosolic Ca(2+) and the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Carboxy-PTIO (a NO scavenger) and BAPTA-AM (an intracellular Ca(2+) chelator) significantly blocked an increasing cytosolic Ca(2+) in JS-K-induced HepG2 cells apoptosis, especially Carboxy-PTIO. Meanwhile, Carboxy-PTIO and BAPTA-AM treatment both attenuate JS-K-induced apoptosis through upregulation of Bcl-2, downregulation of Bax, reduction of Cyt c release from mitochondria to cytoplasm and inactivation of caspase-9/3. In summary, JS-K induced HepG2 cells apoptosis via Ca(2+)/caspase-3-mediated mitochondrial pathway. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Snap-, CLIP- and Halo-Tag Labelling of Budding Yeast Cells

PubMed Central

Stagge, Franziska; Mitronova, Gyuzel Y.; Belov, Vladimir N.; Wurm, Christian A.; Jakobs, Stefan

2013-01-01

Fluorescence microscopy of the localization and the spatial and temporal dynamics of specifically labelled proteins is an indispensable tool in cell biology. Besides fluorescent proteins as tags, tag-mediated labelling utilizing self-labelling proteins as the SNAP-, CLIP-, or the Halo-tag are widely used, flexible labelling systems relying on exogenously supplied fluorophores. Unfortunately, labelling of live budding yeast cells proved to be challenging with these approaches because of the limited accessibility of the cell interior to the dyes. In this study we developed a fast and reliable electroporation-based labelling protocol for living budding yeast cells expressing SNAP-, CLIP-, or Halo-tagged fusion proteins. For the Halo-tag, we demonstrate that it is crucial to use the 6′-carboxy isomers and not the 5′-carboxy isomers of important dyes to ensure cell viability. We report on a simple rule for the analysis of 1H NMR spectra to discriminate between 6′- and 5′-carboxy isomers of fluorescein and rhodamine derivatives. We demonstrate the usability of the labelling protocol by imaging yeast cells with STED super-resolution microscopy and dual colour live cell microscopy. The large number of available fluorophores for these self-labelling proteins and the simplicity of the protocol described here expands the available toolbox for the model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae. PMID:24205303

Organization and control of genes encoding catabolic enzymes in Rhizobiaceae. Progress report, March 1993

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Parke, D.; Ornston, L.N.

1993-03-01

Rhizobiaceae, a diverse bacterial group comprising rhizobia and agrobacteria, symbiotic partnership with plants form nitrogen-fixing nodules on plant roots or are plant pathogens. Phenolic compounds produced by plants serve as inducers of rhizobial nodulation genes and agrobacterial virulence genes reflect their capacity to utilize numerous aromatics, including phenolics, as a source of carbon and energy. In many microbes the aerobic degradation of numerous aromatic compounds to tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates is achieved by the {beta}-ketoadipate pathway. Our initial studies focused on the organization and regulation of the ketoadipate pathway in Agrobacterium tumefaciens. We have cloned, identified and characterized a novelmore » regulatory gene that modulates expression of an adjacent pca (protocatechuate) structural gene, pcaD. Regulation of pcaD is mediated by the regulatory gene, termed pcaQ, in concert with the intermediate {beta}-carboxy-cis,cis-muconate. {beta}-carboxy-cis,cismuconate is an unstable chemical, not marketed commercially, and it is unlikely to permeate Escherichia coli cells if supplied in media. Because of these factors, characterization of pcaQ in E. coli required an in vivo delivery system for {beta}-carboxycis,cis-muconate. This was accomplished by designing an E. coli strain that expressed an Acinetobacter calcoaceticus pcaA gene for conversion of protocatechuate to {beta}-carboxy-cis,cis-muconate.« less

Organization and control of genes encoding catabolic enzymes in Rhizobiaceae

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Parke, D.; Ornston, L.N.

1993-03-01

Rhizobiaceae, a diverse bacterial group comprising rhizobia and agrobacteria, symbiotic partnership with plants form nitrogen-fixing nodules on plant roots or are plant pathogens. Phenolic compounds produced by plants serve as inducers of rhizobial nodulation genes and agrobacterial virulence genes reflect their capacity to utilize numerous aromatics, including phenolics, as a source of carbon and energy. In many microbes the aerobic degradation of numerous aromatic compounds to tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates is achieved by the [beta]-ketoadipate pathway. Our initial studies focused on the organization and regulation of the ketoadipate pathway in Agrobacterium tumefaciens. We have cloned, identified and characterized a novelmore » regulatory gene that modulates expression of an adjacent pca (protocatechuate) structural gene, pcaD. Regulation of pcaD is mediated by the regulatory gene, termed pcaQ, in concert with the intermediate [beta]-carboxy-cis,cis-muconate. [beta]-carboxy-cis,cismuconate is an unstable chemical, not marketed commercially, and it is unlikely to permeate Escherichia coli cells if supplied in media. Because of these factors, characterization of pcaQ in E. coli required an in vivo delivery system for [beta]-carboxycis,cis-muconate. This was accomplished by designing an E. coli strain that expressed an Acinetobacter calcoaceticus pcaA gene for conversion of protocatechuate to [beta]-carboxy-cis,cis-muconate.« less

Fat Content and Nitrite-Curing Influence the Formation of Oxidation Products and NOC-Specific DNA Adducts during In Vitro Digestion of Meat

PubMed Central

Van Hecke, Thomas; Vossen, Els; Vanden Bussche, Julie; Raes, Katleen; Vanhaecke, Lynn; De Smet, Stefaan

2014-01-01

The effects of fat content and nitrite-curing of pork were investigated on the formation of cytotoxic and genotoxic lipid oxidation products (malondialdehyde, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, volatile simple aldehydes), protein oxidation products (protein carbonyl compounds) and NOC-specific DNA adducts (O6-carboxy-methylguanine) during in vitro digestion. The formation of these products during digestion is suggested to be responsible for the association between red meat and processed meat consumption and colorectal cancer risk. Digestion of uncured pork to which fat was added (total fat content 5 or 20%), resulted in significantly higher lipid and protein oxidation in the mimicked duodenal and colonic fluids, compared to digestion of pork without added fat (1% fat). A higher fat content also significantly favored the formation of O6-carboxy-methylguanine in the colon. Nitrite-curing of meat resulted in significantly lower lipid and protein oxidation before and after digestion, while an inconsistent effect on the formation of O6-carboxy-methylguanine was observed. The presented results demonstrate that haem-Fe is not solely responsible for oxidation and nitrosation reactions throughout an in vitro digestion approach but its effect is promoted by a higher fat content in meat. PMID:24978825

Haloferax volcanii archaeosortase is required for motility, mating, and C-terminal processing of the S-layer glycoprotein: Haloferax volcanii archeosortase

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Abdul Halim, Mohd Farid; Pfeiffer, Friedhelm; Zou, James

2013-05-28

Cell surfaces are decorated by a variety of proteins that facilitate interactions with their environments and support cell stability.These secreted proteins are anchored to the cell by mechanisms that are diverse, and, in archaea, poorly understood. Recently published in silico data suggest that in some species a subset of secreted euryarchaeal proteins, which includes the S-­layer glycoprotein, is processed and covalently linked tot he cell membrane by enzymes referred to as archaeosortases. In silico work led to the proposal that an independent, sortase-like system for proteolysis-coupled carboxy-terminal lipid modification exists in bacteria (exosortase) and archaea (archaeosortase). Here, we provide themore » first in vivo characterization of an archaeosortase in the haloarchaeal model organism Haloferax volcanii. Deletion of the artA gene (HVO_0915) resulted in multiple biological phenotypes: (a) poor growth, especially under low-salt conditions, (b) alterations in cell shape and the S-layer, (c) impaired motility, suppressors of which still exhibit poor growth, and (d) impaired conjugation. We studied one of the ArtA substrates, the S-layer glycoprotein, using detailed proteomic analysis. While the carboxy-terminal region of S-layer glycoproteins, consisting of a threonine-rich O-glycosylated region followed by a hydrophobic transmembrane helix, has been notoriously resistant to any proteomic peptide identification, we were able to identify two overlapping peptides from the transmembrane domain present in the ΔartA strain but not in the wild-type strain. This clearly shows that ArtA is involved in carboxy-terminal posttranslational processing of the S-layer glycoprotein. As it is known from previous studies that a lipid is covalently attached to the carboxy-terminal region of the S-layer glycoprotein, our data strongly support the conclusion that archaeosortase functions analogously to sortase, mediating proteolysis-coupled, covalent cell surface attachment.« less

Metabolism and disposition of oral dabrafenib in cancer patients: proposed participation of aryl nitrogen in carbon-carbon bond cleavage via decarboxylation following enzymatic oxidation.

PubMed

Bershas, David A; Ouellet, Daniele; Mamaril-Fishman, Donna B; Nebot, Noelia; Carson, Stanley W; Blackman, Samuel C; Morrison, Royce A; Adams, Jerry L; Jurusik, Kristen E; Knecht, Dana M; Gorycki, Peter D; Richards-Peterson, Lauren E

2013-12-01

A phase I study was conducted to assess the metabolism and excretion of [(14)C]dabrafenib (GSK2118436; N-{3-[5-(2-amino-4-pyrimidinyl)-2-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-1,3-thiazol-4-yl]-2-fluorophenyl}-2,6-difluorobenzene sulfonamide, methanesulfonate salt), a BRAF inhibitor, in four patients with BRAF V600 mutation-positive tumors after a single oral dose of 95 mg (80 µCi). Assessments included the following: 1) plasma concentrations of dabrafenib and metabolites using validated ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography--tandem mass spectrometry methods, 2) plasma and blood radioactivity, 3) urinary and fecal radioactivity, and 4) metabolite profiling. Results showed the mean total recovery of radioactivity was 93.8%, with the majority recovered in feces (71.1% of administered dose). Urinary excretion accounted for 22.7% of the dose, with no detection of parent drug in urine. Dabrafenib is metabolized primarily via oxidation of the t-butyl group to form hydroxy-dabrafenib. Hydroxy-dabrafenib undergoes further oxidation to carboxy-dabrafenib, which subsequently converts to desmethyl-dabrafenib via a pH-dependent decarboxylation. The half-lives for carboxy- and desmethyl-dabrafenib were longer than for parent and hydroxy-dabrafenib (18-20 vs. 5-6 hours). Based on area under the plasma concentration-time curve, dabrafenib, hydroxy-, carboxy-, and desmethyl-dabrafenib accounted for 11%, 8%, 54%, and 3% of the plasma radioactivity, respectively. These results demonstrate that the major route of elimination of dabrafenib is via oxidative metabolism (48% of the dose) and biliary excretion. Based on our understanding of the decarboxylation of carboxy-dabrafenib, a low pH-driven, nonenzymatic mechanism involving participation of the aryl nitrogen is proposed to allow prediction of metabolic oxidation and decarboxylation of drugs containing an aryl nitrogen positioned α to an alkyl (ethyl or t-butyl) side chain.

Pharmacokinetic and pharmacometabolomic study of pirfenidone in normal mouse tissues using high mass resolution MALDI-FTICR-mass spectrometry imaging.

PubMed

Sun, Na; Fernandez, Isis E; Wei, Mian; Wu, Yin; Aichler, Michaela; Eickelberg, Oliver; Walch, Axel

2016-02-01

Given the importance of pirfenidone as the first worldwide-approved drug for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis treatment, its pharmacodynamic properties and the metabolic response to pirfenidone treatment have not been fully elucidated. The aim of the present study was to get molecular insights of pirfenidone-related pharmacometabolomic response using MALDI-FTICR-MSI. Quantitative MALDI-FTICR-MSI was carried out for determining the pharmacokinetic properties of pirfenidone and its related metabolites 5-hydroxymethyl pirfenidone and 5-carboxy pirfenidone in lung, liver and kidney. To monitor the effect of pirfenidone administration on endogenous cell metabolism, additional in situ endogenous metabolite imaging was performed in lung tissue sections. While pirfenidone is highly abundant and delocalized across the whole micro-regions of lung, kidney and liver, 5-hydroxymethyl pirfenidone and 5-carboxy pirfenidone demonstrate heterogeneous distribution patterns in lung and kidney. In situ endogenous metabolite imaging study of lung tissue indicates no significant effects of pirfenidone on metabolic pathways. Remarkably, we found 129 discriminative m/z values which represent clear differences between control and treated lungs, the majority of which are currently unknown. PCA analysis and heatmap view can accurately distinguish control and treated groups. This is the first pharmacokinetic study to investigate the tissue distribution of orally administered pirfenidone and its related metabolites simultaneously in organs without labeling. The combination of pharmametabolome with histological features provides detailed mapping of drug effects on metabolism as response of healthy lung tissue to pirfenidone treatment.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Maiti, Tushar K.; Permaul, Michelle; Boudreaux, David A.

Ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L5 (UCHL5) is a proteasome-associated deubiquitinating enzyme, which, along with RPN11 and USP14, is known to carry out deubiquitination on proteasome. As a member of the ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase (UCH) family, UCHL5 is unusual because, unlike UCHL1 and UCHL3, it can process polyubiquitin chain. However, it does so only when it is bound to the proteasome; in its free form, it is capable of releasing only relatively small leaving groups from the C-terminus of ubiquitin. Such a behavior might suggest at least two catalytically distinct forms of the enzyme, an apo form incapable of chain processing activity,more » and a proteasome-induced activated form capable of cleaving polyubiquitin chain. Through the crystal structure analysis of two truncated constructs representing the catalytic domain (UCH domain) of this enzyme, we were able to visualize a state of this enzyme that we interpret as its inactive form, because the catalytic cysteine appears to be in an unproductive orientation. While this work was in progress, the structure of a different construct representing the UCH domain was reported; however, in that work the structure reported was that of an inactive mutant [catalytic Cys to Ala; Nishio K et al. (2009) Biochem Biophys Res Commun390, 855-860], which precluded the observation that we are reporting here. Additionally, our structures reveal conformationally dynamic parts of the enzyme that may play a role in the structural transition to the more active form.« less

Synthesis of amino acid conjugates to 2-imino-3-methylene-5-carboxypyrrolidine and 2-imino-3-methylene-6-carboxypiperidine.

PubMed

Mitchell, Robin E

2010-03-15

The four stereomers of 2-imino-3-methylene-5-L(carboxy-L-valyl)pyrrolidine, a bacterial metabolite that is inhibitory to the fire blight bacterium Erwinia amylovora, were synthesised and compared for antibacterial activity. Several alternative amino acid conjugates with L,L-stereochemistry were also prepared, and the synthesis was extended to 3-methylenepiperidine-6-L-carboxylic acid and a selection of 2-imino-3-methylenepiperidine-6-L-carboxy-L-amino acid conjugates. All synthetic amino acid conjugates (L,L-stereomers) were inhibitory to the growth of E. amylovora. The likely participation of the conjugated iminomethylene moiety as a Michael acceptor is implicated. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The expanded amelogenin polyproline region preferentially binds to apatite versus carbonate and promotes apatite crystal elongation

PubMed Central

Gopinathan, Gokul; Jin, Tianquan; Liu, Min; Li, Steve; Atsawasuwan, Phimon; Galang, Maria-Therese; Allen, Michael; Luan, Xianghong; Diekwisch, Thomas G. H.

2014-01-01

The transition from invertebrate calcium carbonate-based calcite and aragonite exo- and endoskeletons to the calcium phosphate-based vertebrate backbones and jaws composed of microscopic hydroxyapatite crystals is one of the great revolutions in the evolution of terrestrial organisms. To identify potential factors that might have played a role in such a transition, three key domains of the vertebrate tooth enamel protein amelogenin were probed for calcium mineral/protein interactions and their ability to promote calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate crystal growth. Under calcium phosphate crystal growth conditions, only the carboxy-terminus augmented polyproline repeat peptide, but not the N-terminal peptide nor the polyproline repeat peptide alone, promoted the formation of thin and parallel crystallites resembling those of bone and initial enamel. In contrast, under calcium carbonate crystal growth conditions, all three amelogenin-derived polypeptides caused calcium carbonate to form fused crystalline conglomerates. When examined for long-term crystal growth, polyproline repeat peptides of increasing length promoted the growth of shorter calcium carbonate crystals with broader basis, contrary to the positive correlation between polyproline repeat element length and apatite mineralization published earlier. To determine whether the positive correlation between polyproline repeat element length and apatite crystal growth versus the inverse correlation between polyproline repeat length and calcium carbonate crystal growth were related to the binding affinity of the polyproline domain to either apatite or carbonate, a parallel series of calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate/apatite protein binding studies was conducted. These studies demonstrated a remarkable binding affinity between the augmented amelogenin polyproline repeat region and calcium phosphates, and almost no binding to calcium carbonates. In contrast, the amelogenin N-terminus bound to both carbonate and apatite, but preferentially to calcium carbonate. Together, these studies highlight the specific binding affinity of the augmented amelogenin polyproline repeat region to calcium phosphates versus calcium carbonate, and its unique role in the growth of thin apatite crystals as they occur in vertebrate biominerals. Our data suggest that the rise of apatite-based biominerals in vertebrates might have been facilitated by a rapid evolution of specialized polyproline repeat proteins flanked by a charged domain, resulting in apatite crystals with reduced width, increased length, and tailored biomechanical properties. PMID:25426079

A Novel Positive Feedback Loop Mediated by the Docking Protein Gab1 and Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase in Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Signaling

PubMed Central

Rodrigues, Gerard A.; Falasca, Marco; Zhang, Zhongtao; Ong, Siew Hwa; Schlessinger, Joseph

2000-01-01

The Gab1 protein is tyrosine phosphorylated in response to various growth factors and serves as a docking protein that recruits a number of downstream signaling proteins, including phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI-3 kinase). To determine the role of Gab1 in signaling via the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) we tested the ability of Gab1 to associate with and modulate signaling by this receptor. We show that Gab1 associates with the EGFR in vivo and in vitro via pTyr sites 1068 and 1086 in the carboxy-terminal tail of the receptor and that overexpression of Gab1 potentiates EGF-induced activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase and Jun kinase signaling pathways. A mutant of Gab1 unable to bind the p85 subunit of PI-3 kinase is defective in potentiating EGFR signaling, confirming a role for PI-3 kinase as a downstream effector of Gab1. Inhibition of PI-3 kinase by a dominant-interfering mutant of p85 or by Wortmannin treatment similarly impairs Gab1-induced enhancement of signaling via the EGFR. The PH domain of Gab1 was shown to bind specifically to phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-triphosphate [PtdIns(3,4,5)P3], a product of PI-3 kinase, and is required for activation of Gab1-mediated enhancement of EGFR signaling. Moreover, the PH domain mediates Gab1 translocation to the plasma membrane in response to EGF and is required for efficient tyrosine phosphorylation of Gab1 upon EGF stimulation. In addition, overexpression of Gab1 PH domain blocks Gab1 potentiation of EGFR signaling. Finally, expression of the gene for the lipid phosphatase PTEN, which dephosphorylates PtdIns(3,4,5)P3, inhibits EGF signaling and translocation of Gab1 to the plasma membrane. These results reveal a novel positive feedback loop, modulated by PTEN, in which PI-3 kinase functions as both an upstream regulator and a downstream effector of Gab1 in signaling via the EGFR. PMID:10648629

The γ-secretase cleavage product of Polycystin-1 regulates TCF and CHOP-mediated transcriptional activation through a p300-dependent mechanism

PubMed Central

Merrick, David; Chapin, Hannah; Baggs, Julie E.; Yu, Zhiheng; Somlo, Stefan; Sun, Zhaoxia; Hogenesch, John B.; Caplan, Michael

2011-01-01

Summary Mutations in Pkd1, encoding polycystin-1 (PC1), cause Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD). We show that the carboxy-terminal tail (CTT) of PC1 is released by γ-secretase-mediated cleavage and regulates the Wnt and CHOP pathways by binding the transcription factors TCF and CHOP, disrupting their interaction with the common transcriptional co-activator p300. Loss of PC1 causes increased proliferation and apoptosis, while reintroducing PC1-CTT into cultured Pkd1 null cells reestablishes normal growth rate, suppresses apoptosis, and prevents cyst formation. Inhibition of γ-secretase activity impairs the ability of PC1 to suppress growth and apoptosis, and leads to cyst formation in cultured renal epithelial cells. Expression of the PC1-CTT is sufficient to rescue the dorsal body curvature phenotype in zebrafish embryos resulting from either γ-secretase inhibition or suppression of Pkd1 expression. Thus, γ-secretase-dependent release of the PC1-CTT creates a protein fragment whose expression is sufficient to suppress ADPKD-related phenotypes in vitro and in vivo. PMID:22178500

Unusual nanosized associates of carboxy-calix[4]resorcinarene and cetylpyridinium chloride: the macrocycle as a glue for surfactant micelles.

PubMed

Morozova, Ju E; Syakaev, V V; Shalaeva, Ya V; Ermakova, A M; Nizameev, I R; Kadirov, M K; Voloshina, A D; Zobov, V V; Antipin, I S; Konovalov, A I

2017-03-08

The association of cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) micelles in the presence of octaacetated tetraphenyleneoxymethylcalix[4]resorcinarene (CR) leads to the formation of unusual spherical supramolecular nanoparticles (SNPs). Within the range of CR/CPC molar ratios from 10/1 to 1/10 (except for 1/8), CR, acting as a counterion, decreases the critical micelle concentration of CPC by one order of magnitude and leads to the formation of SNPs with an average hydrodynamic radius of 164 nm and an average zeta potential of -60 mV. The formation of SNPs was studied by NMR FT-PGSE and 2D NOESY, DLS, TEM, fluorimetry, and UV-Vis methods. The stability of SNPs at different temperatures and pH values and in the presence of electrolytes was investigated. The specificity of the interactions of the SNPs with substrates that were preferentially bound by a macrocycle or CPC micelle was studied. The enhancement of cation dye binding in the presence of SNPs is shown. The presented supramolecular system may serve as a nanocapsule for water-soluble and water-insoluble compounds.

Isocitrate Lyase from Flax 1

PubMed Central

Khan, Fazal R.; McFadden, Bruce A.

1982-01-01

The cleavage of Ds-isocitrate catalyzed by isocitrate lyase from Linum usitatissimum results in the ordered release of succinate and glyoxylate. The glyoxylate analog 3-bromopyruvate irreversibly inactivates the flax enzyme in a process exhibiting saturation kinetics and protection by glyoxylate or isocitrate or the competitive inhibitor l-tartrate. Succinate provides considerably less protection. Results with 3-bromopyruvate suggest that this reagent modifies plant and prokaryotic isocitrate lyases differently. Treatment of the tetrameric 264,000-dalton flax enzyme with carboxypeptidase A results in a release of one histidine/subunit which is concordant with loss of activity. The only N-terminal residue is methionine. Treatment of flax enzyme with diethylpyrocarbonate at pH 6.5 selectively modifies two histidines per 67,000-dalton subunit. The reaction of one histidine residue is abolished by the binding of l-tartrate and the modification of one is coincident with inactivation. The carboxy-terminal and active-site modifications establish that one histidine residue/monomer is essential in the flax enzyme and considerably extend information heretofore available only for fungal and bacterial isocitrate lyase. PMID:16662648

The folding transition state of Protein L is extensive with non-native interactions (and not small and polarized)

PubMed Central

Yoo, Tae Yeon; Adhikari, Aashish; Xia, Zhen; Huynh, Tien; Freed, Karl F.; Zhou, Ruhong; Sosnick, Tobin R.

2012-01-01

Progress in understanding protein folding relies heavily upon an interplay between experiment and theory. In particular, readily interpretable experimental data are required that can be meaningfully compared to simulations. According to standard mutational φ analysis, the transition state for Protein L contains only a single hairpin. However, we demonstrate here using ψ analysis with engineered metal ion binding sites that the transition state is extensive, containing the entire four-stranded β sheet. Underreporting of the structural content of the transition state by φ analysis also occurs for acyl phosphatase1, ubiquitin2 and BdpA3. The carboxy terminal hairpin in the transition state of Protein L is found to be non-native, a significant result that agrees with our PDB-based backbone sampling and all-atom simulations. The non-native character partially explains the failure of accepted experimental and native-centric computational approaches to adequately describe the transition state. Hence, caution is required even when an apparent agreement exists between experiment and theory, thus highlighting the importance of having alternative methods for characterizing transition states. PMID:22522126

Diversification of HP1-like Chromo Domain Proteins in Tetrahymena thermophila.

PubMed

Wiley, Emily A; Horrell, Scott; Yoshino, Alyssa; Schornak, Cara C; Bagnani, Claire; Chalker, Douglas L

2018-01-01

Proteins that possess a chromo domain are well-known for their roles in heterochromatin assembly and maintenance. The Heterochromatin Protein 1 (HP1) family, with a chromo domain and carboxy-terminal chromo shadow domain, targets heterochromatin through interaction with histone H3 methylated on lysine 9 (H3K9me2/3). The structural and functional diversity of these proteins observed in both fission yeast and metazoans correlate with chromatin specialization. To expand these studies, we examined chromo domain proteins in the ciliate Tetrahymena thermophila, which has functionally diverse and developmentally regulated heterochromatin domains. We identified thirteen proteins similar to HP1. Together they possess only a fraction of the possible chromo domain subtypes and most lack a recognizable chromo shadow domain. Using fluorescence microscopy to track chromatin localization of tagged proteins through the life cycle, we show evidence that in T. thermophila this family has diversified with biological roles in RNAi-directed DNA elimination, germline genome structure, and somatic heterochromatin. Those proteins with H3K27me3 binding sequence characteristics localize to chromatin in mature nuclei, whereas those with H3K9me2/3 binding characteristics localize to developing nuclei undergoing DNA elimination. Findings point to an expanded and diversified family of chromo domain proteins that parallels heterochromatin diversity in ciliates. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Eukaryotic Microbiology published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society of Protistologists.

The Structural Basis of [beta]-Peptide-Specific Cleavage by the Serine Protease Cyanophycinase

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Law, Adrienne M.; Lai, Sandy W.S.; Tavares, John

2010-10-01

Cyanophycin, or poly-L-Asp-multi-L-Arg, is a non-ribosomally synthesized peptidic polymer that is used for nitrogen storage by cyanobacteria and other select eubacteria. Upon synthesis, it self-associates to form insoluble granules, the degradation of which is uniquely catalyzed by a carboxy-terminal-specific protease, cyanophycinase. We have determined the structure of cyanophycinase from the freshwater cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC6803 at 1.5-{angstrom} resolution, showing that the structure is dimeric, with individual protomers resembling aspartyl dipeptidase. Kinetic characterization of the enzyme demonstrates that the enzyme displays Michaelis-Menten kinetics with a k{sub cat} of 16.5 s{sup -1} and a k{sub cat}/K{sub M} of 7.5 x 10{sup -6}more » M{sup -1} s{sup -1}. Site-directed mutagenesis experiments confirm that cyanophycinase is a serine protease and that Gln101, Asp172, Gln173, Arg178, Arg180 and Arg183, which form a conserved pocket adjacent to the catalytic Ser132, are functionally critical residues. Modeling indicates that cyanophycinase binds the {beta}-Asp-Arg dipeptide residue immediately N-terminal to the scissile bond in an extended conformation in this pocket, primarily recognizing this penultimate {beta}-Asp-Arg residue of the polymeric chain. Because binding and catalysis depend on substrate features unique to {beta}-linked aspartyl peptides, cyanophycinase is able to act within the cytosol without non-specific cleavage events disrupting essential cellular processes.« less

Interactions and Nuclear Import of the N and P Proteins of Sonchus Yellow Net Virus, a Plant Nucleorhabdovirus

PubMed Central

Goodin, Michael M.; Austin, Jennifer; Tobias, Renée; Fujita, Miki; Morales, Christina; Jackson, Andrew O.

2001-01-01

We have characterized the interaction and nuclear localization of the nucleocapsid (N) protein and phosphoprotein (P) of sonchus yellow net nucleorhabdovirus. Expression studies with plant and yeast cells revealed that both N and P are capable of independent nuclear import. Site-specific mutagenesis and deletion analyses demonstrated that N contains a carboxy-terminal bipartite nuclear localization signal (NLS) located between amino acids 465 and 481 and that P contains a karyophillic region between amino acids 40 and 124. The N NLS was fully capable of functioning outside of the context of the N protein and was able to direct the nuclear import of a synthetic protein fusion consisting of green fluorescent protein fused to glutathione S-transferase (GST). Expression and mapping studies suggested that the karyophillic domain in P is located within the N-binding domain. Coexpression of N and P drastically affected their localization patterns relative to those of individually expressed proteins and resulted in a shift of both proteins to a subnuclear region. Yeast two-hybrid and GST pulldown experiments verified the N-P and P-P interactions, and deletion analyses have identified the N and P interacting domains. N NLS mutants were not transported to the nucleus by import-competent P, presumably because N binding masks the P NLS. Taken together, our results support a model for independent entry of N and P into the nucleus followed by associations that mediate subnuclear localization. PMID:11533202

(S)-[6]-Gingerol inhibits TGF-β-stimulated biglycan synthesis but not glycosaminoglycan hyperelongation in human vascular smooth muscle cells.

PubMed

Kamato, Danielle; Babaahmadi Rezaei, Hossein; Getachew, Robel; Thach, Lyna; Guidone, Daniel; Osman, Narin; Roufogalis, Basil; Duke, Colin C; Tran, Van Hoan; Zheng, Wenhua; Little, Peter J

2013-07-01

(S)-[6]-Gingerol is under investigation for a variety of therapeutic uses. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β stimulates proteoglycan synthesis, leading to increased binding of low-density lipoproteins, which is the initiating step in atherosclerosis. We evaluated the effects of (S)-[6]-gingerol on these TGF-β-mediated proteoglycan changes to explore its potential as an anti-atherosclerotic agent. Purified (S)-[6]-gingerol was assessed for its effects on proteoglycan synthesis by [(35) S]-sulfate incorporation into glycosaminoglycan chains and [(35) S]-Met/Cys incorporation into proteoglycans and total proteins in human vascular smooth muscle cells. Biglycan level was assessed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reactions and the effects of (S)-[6]-gingerol on TGF-β signalling by assessment of the phosphorylation of Smads and Akt by western blotting. (S)-[6]-Gingerol concentration-dependently inhibited TGF-β-stimulated proteoglycan core protein synthesis, and this was not secondary to inhibition of total protein synthesis. (S)-[6]-Gingerol inhibited biglycan mRNA expression. (S)-[6]-Gingerol did not inhibit TGF-β-stimulated glycosaminoglycan hyperelongation or phosphorylation of Smad 2, in either the carboxy terminal or linker region, or Akt phosphorylation. The activity of (S)-[6]-gingerol to inhibit TGF-β-stimulated biglycan synthesis suggests a potential role for ginger in the prevention of atherosclerosis or other lipid-binding diseases. The signalling studies indicate a novel site of action of (S)-[6]-gingerol in inhibiting TGF-β responses. © 2013 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

ENDOTHELIN-STIMULATED HUMAN B-TYPE NATRIURETIC PEPTIDE GENE EXPRESSION IS MEDIATED BY YY1 IN ASSOCIATION WITH HDAC2

PubMed Central

Glenn, Denis J.; Wang, Feng; Chen, Songcang; Nishimoto, Minobu; Gardner, David G.

2009-01-01

Increased B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) gene expression is regarded as one of the hallmarks of cardiac myocyte hypertrophy. Here we demonstrate that both basal and endothelin-1 (ET-1) -dependent stimulation of human (h) BNP gene transcription requires the presence of an intact Yin Yang 1 (YY1) binding site positioned at -62 bp relative to the transcription start site. Mutation of this site reduced both basal and stimulated hBNP promoter activity. This site was shown to bind YY1 both in vitro and within the context of the intact cell. The latter interaction increased following ET-1 treatment. Exposure to ET-1 also resulted in increased nuclear localization of YY1 and a reduction in acetylation of the YY1 protein. Overexpression of wild type YY1 increased both basal and endothelin-stimulated hBNP promoter activity, while a carboxy terminal deletion mutant of YY1 was devoid of activity. Treatment with the histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA) resulted in decreased hBNP reporter activity. YY1 was shown to associate with histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2), and HDAC2 was shown to associate directly with the hBNP promoter in the intact cell. Collectively these findings demonstrate that YY1 plays an important role in regulating the transcriptional activity of the hBNP gene promoter. These data suggest a model in which YY1 activates hBNP transcription through interaction with HDAC2. PMID:19139378

Identification of the Mechanisms Causing Reversion to Virulence in an Attenuated SARS-CoV for the Design of a Genetically Stable Vaccine.

PubMed

Jimenez-Guardeño, Jose M; Regla-Nava, Jose A; Nieto-Torres, Jose L; DeDiego, Marta L; Castaño-Rodriguez, Carlos; Fernandez-Delgado, Raul; Perlman, Stanley; Enjuanes, Luis

2015-10-01

A SARS-CoV lacking the full-length E gene (SARS-CoV-∆E) was attenuated and an effective vaccine. Here, we show that this mutant virus regained fitness after serial passages in cell culture or in vivo, resulting in the partial duplication of the membrane gene or in the insertion of a new sequence in gene 8a, respectively. The chimeric proteins generated in cell culture increased virus fitness in vitro but remained attenuated in mice. In contrast, during SARS-CoV-∆E passage in mice, the virus incorporated a mutated variant of 8a protein, resulting in reversion to a virulent phenotype. When the full-length E protein was deleted or its PDZ-binding motif (PBM) was mutated, the revertant viruses either incorporated a novel chimeric protein with a PBM or restored the sequence of the PBM on the E protein, respectively. Similarly, after passage in mice, SARS-CoV-∆E protein 8a mutated, to now encode a PBM, and also regained virulence. These data indicated that the virus requires a PBM on a transmembrane protein to compensate for removal of this motif from the E protein. To increase the genetic stability of the vaccine candidate, we introduced small attenuating deletions in E gene that did not affect the endogenous PBM, preventing the incorporation of novel chimeric proteins in the virus genome. In addition, to increase vaccine biosafety, we introduced additional attenuating mutations into the nsp1 protein. Deletions in the carboxy-terminal region of nsp1 protein led to higher host interferon responses and virus attenuation. Recombinant viruses including attenuating mutations in E and nsp1 genes maintained their attenuation after passage in vitro and in vivo. Further, these viruses fully protected mice against challenge with the lethal parental virus, and are therefore safe and stable vaccine candidates for protection against SARS-CoV.

Identification of the Mechanisms Causing Reversion to Virulence in an Attenuated SARS-CoV for the Design of a Genetically Stable Vaccine

PubMed Central

Nieto-Torres, Jose L.; DeDiego, Marta L.; Castaño-Rodriguez, Carlos; Fernandez-Delgado, Raul; Perlman, Stanley; Enjuanes, Luis

2015-01-01

A SARS-CoV lacking the full-length E gene (SARS-CoV-∆E) was attenuated and an effective vaccine. Here, we show that this mutant virus regained fitness after serial passages in cell culture or in vivo, resulting in the partial duplication of the membrane gene or in the insertion of a new sequence in gene 8a, respectively. The chimeric proteins generated in cell culture increased virus fitness in vitro but remained attenuated in mice. In contrast, during SARS-CoV-∆E passage in mice, the virus incorporated a mutated variant of 8a protein, resulting in reversion to a virulent phenotype. When the full-length E protein was deleted or its PDZ-binding motif (PBM) was mutated, the revertant viruses either incorporated a novel chimeric protein with a PBM or restored the sequence of the PBM on the E protein, respectively. Similarly, after passage in mice, SARS-CoV-∆E protein 8a mutated, to now encode a PBM, and also regained virulence. These data indicated that the virus requires a PBM on a transmembrane protein to compensate for removal of this motif from the E protein. To increase the genetic stability of the vaccine candidate, we introduced small attenuating deletions in E gene that did not affect the endogenous PBM, preventing the incorporation of novel chimeric proteins in the virus genome. In addition, to increase vaccine biosafety, we introduced additional attenuating mutations into the nsp1 protein. Deletions in the carboxy-terminal region of nsp1 protein led to higher host interferon responses and virus attenuation. Recombinant viruses including attenuating mutations in E and nsp1 genes maintained their attenuation after passage in vitro and in vivo. Further, these viruses fully protected mice against challenge with the lethal parental virus, and are therefore safe and stable vaccine candidates for protection against SARS-CoV. PMID:26513244

Diverse C-Terminal Sequences Involved in Flavobacterium johnsoniae Protein Secretion

PubMed Central

Kulkarni, Surashree S.; Zhu, Yongtao; Brendel, Colton J.

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Flavobacterium johnsoniae and many related bacteria secrete proteins across the outer membrane using the type IX secretion system (T9SS). Proteins secreted by T9SSs have amino-terminal signal peptides for export across the cytoplasmic membrane by the Sec system and carboxy-terminal domains (CTDs) targeting them for secretion across the outer membrane by the T9SS. Most but not all T9SS CTDs belong to the family TIGR04183 (type A CTDs). We functionally characterized diverse CTDs for secretion by the F. johnsoniae T9SS. Attachment of the CTDs from F. johnsoniae RemA, AmyB, and ChiA to the foreign superfolder green fluorescent protein (sfGFP) that had a signal peptide at the amino terminus resulted in secretion across the outer membrane. In each case, approximately 80 to 100 amino acids from the extreme carboxy termini were needed for efficient secretion. Several type A CTDs from distantly related members of the phylum Bacteroidetes functioned in F. johnsoniae, supporting the secretion of sfGFP by the F. johnsoniae T9SS. F. johnsoniae SprB requires the T9SS for secretion but lacks a type A CTD. It has a conserved C-terminal domain belonging to the family TIGR04131, which we refer to as a type B CTD. The CTD of SprB was required for its secretion, but attachment of C-terminal regions of SprB of up to 1,182 amino acids to sfGFP failed to result in secretion. Additional features outside the C-terminal region of SprB may be required for its secretion. IMPORTANCE Type IX protein secretion systems (T9SSs) are common in but limited to members of the phylum Bacteroidetes. Most proteins that are secreted by T9SSs have conserved carboxy-terminal domains that belong to the protein domain family TIGR04183 (type A CTDs) or TIGR04131 (type B CTDs). Here, we identify features of T9SS CTDs of F. johnsoniae that are required for protein secretion and demonstrate that type A CTDs from distantly related members of the phylum function with the F. johnsoniae T9SS to secrete the foreign protein sfGFP. In contrast, type B CTDs failed to target sfGFP for secretion, suggesting a more complex association with the T9SS. PMID:28396348

Incorporating functionalized polyethylene glycol lipids into reprecipitated conjugated polymer nanoparticles for bioconjugation and targeted labeling of cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kandel, Prakash K.; Fernando, Lawrence P.; Ackroyd, P. Christine; Christensen, Kenneth A.

2011-03-01

We report a simple and rapid method to prepare extremely bright, functionalized, stable, and biocompatible conjugated polymer nanoparticles incorporating functionalized polyethylene glycol (PEG) lipids by reprecipitation. These nanoparticles retain the fundamental spectroscopic properties of conjugated polymer nanoparticles prepared without PEG lipid, but demonstrate greater hydrophilicity and quantum yield compared to unmodified conjugated polymer nanoparticles. The sizes of these nanoparticles, as determined by TEM, were 21-26 nm. Notably, these nanoparticles were prepared with several PEG lipid functional end groups, including biotin and carboxy moieties that can be easily conjugated to biomolecules. We have demonstrated the availability of these end groups for functionalization using the interaction of biotin PEG lipid conjugated polymer nanoparticles with streptavidin. Biotinylated PEG lipid conjugated polymer nanoparticles bound streptavidin-linked magnetic beads, while carboxy and methoxy PEG lipid modified nanoparticles did not. Similarly, biotinylated PEG lipid conjugated polymer nanoparticles bound streptavidin-coated glass slides and could be visualized as diffraction-limited spots, while nanoparticles without PEG lipid or with non-biotin PEG lipid end groups were not bound. To demonstrate that nanoparticle functionalization could be used for targeted labelling of specific cellular proteins, biotinylated PEG lipid conjugated polymer nanoparticles were bound to biotinylated anti-CD16/32 antibodies on J774A.1 cell surface receptors, using streptavidin as a linker. This work represents the first demonstration of targeted delivery of conjugated polymer nanoparticles and demonstrates the utility of these new nanoparticles for fluorescence based imaging and sensing.We report a simple and rapid method to prepare extremely bright, functionalized, stable, and biocompatible conjugated polymer nanoparticles incorporating functionalized polyethylene glycol (PEG) lipids by reprecipitation. These nanoparticles retain the fundamental spectroscopic properties of conjugated polymer nanoparticles prepared without PEG lipid, but demonstrate greater hydrophilicity and quantum yield compared to unmodified conjugated polymer nanoparticles. The sizes of these nanoparticles, as determined by TEM, were 21-26 nm. Notably, these nanoparticles were prepared with several PEG lipid functional end groups, including biotin and carboxy moieties that can be easily conjugated to biomolecules. We have demonstrated the availability of these end groups for functionalization using the interaction of biotin PEG lipid conjugated polymer nanoparticles with streptavidin. Biotinylated PEG lipid conjugated polymer nanoparticles bound streptavidin-linked magnetic beads, while carboxy and methoxy PEG lipid modified nanoparticles did not. Similarly, biotinylated PEG lipid conjugated polymer nanoparticles bound streptavidin-coated glass slides and could be visualized as diffraction-limited spots, while nanoparticles without PEG lipid or with non-biotin PEG lipid end groups were not bound. To demonstrate that nanoparticle functionalization could be used for targeted labelling of specific cellular proteins, biotinylated PEG lipid conjugated polymer nanoparticles were bound to biotinylated anti-CD16/32 antibodies on J774A.1 cell surface receptors, using streptavidin as a linker. This work represents the first demonstration of targeted delivery of conjugated polymer nanoparticles and demonstrates the utility of these new nanoparticles for fluorescence based imaging and sensing. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Additional TEM data, supplemental light scattering measurements, absorbance and fluorescence emission spectra, and photostability measurements. See DOI: 10.1039/c0nr00746c

Role of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors in pathogenesis of Huntington's disease and spinocerebellar ataxias.

PubMed

Bezprozvanny, Ilya

2011-07-01

Huntington's disease (HD) and spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) are autosomal-dominant neurodegenerative disorders. HD is caused by polyglutamine (polyQ) expansion in the amino-terminal region of a protein huntingtin (Htt) and primarily affects medium spiny striatal neurons (MSN). Many SCAs are caused by polyQ-expansion in ataxin proteins and primarily affect cerebellar Purkinje cells. The reasons for neuronal dysfunction and death in HD and SCAs remain poorly understood and no cure is available for the patients. Our laboratory discovered that mutant huntingtin, ataxin-2 and ataxin-3 proteins specifically bind to the carboxy-terminal region of the type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP(3)R1), an intracellular Ca(2+) release channel. Moreover, we found that association of mutant huntingtin or ataxins with IP(3)R1 causes sensitization of IP(3)R1 to activation by IP(3) in planar lipid bilayers and in neuronal cells. These results suggested that deranged neuronal Ca(2+) signaling might play an important role in pathogenesis of HD, SCA2 and SCA3. In support of this idea, we demonstrated a connection between abnormal Ca(2+) signaling and neuronal cell death in experiments with HD, SCA2 and SCA3 transgenic mouse models. Additional data in the literature indicate that abnormal neuronal Ca(2+) signaling may also play an important role in pathogenesis of SCAl, SCA5, SCA6, SCA14 and SCA15/16. Based on these results I propose that IP(3)R and other Ca(2+) signaling proteins should be considered as potential therapeutic targets for treatment of HD and SCAs.

The Orphan G Protein-coupled Receptor GPR17 Negatively Regulates Oligodendrocyte Differentiation via Gαi/o and Its Downstream Effector Molecules.

PubMed

Simon, Katharina; Hennen, Stephanie; Merten, Nicole; Blättermann, Stefanie; Gillard, Michel; Kostenis, Evi; Gomeza, Jesus

2016-01-08

Recent studies have recognized G protein-coupled receptors as important regulators of oligodendrocyte development. GPR17, in particular, is an orphan G protein-coupled receptor that has been identified as oligodendroglial maturation inhibitor because its stimulation arrests primary mouse oligodendrocytes at a less differentiated stage. However, the intracellular signaling effectors transducing its activation remain poorly understood. Here, we use Oli-neu cells, an immortalized cell line derived from primary murine oligodendrocytes, and primary rat oligodendrocyte cultures as model systems to identify molecular targets that link cell surface GPR17 to oligodendrocyte maturation blockade. We demonstrate that stimulation of GPR17 by the small molecule agonist MDL29,951 (2-carboxy-4,6-dichloro-1H-indole-3-propionic acid) decreases myelin basic protein expression levels mainly by triggering the Gαi/o signaling pathway, which in turn leads to reduced activity of the downstream cascade adenylyl cyclase-cAMP-PKA-cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). In addition, we show that GPR17 activation also diminishes myelin basic protein abundance by lessening stimulation of the exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (EPAC), thus uncovering a previously unrecognized role for EPAC to regulate oligodendrocyte differentiation. Together, our data establish PKA and EPAC as key downstream effectors of GPR17 that inhibit oligodendrocyte maturation. We envisage that treatments augmenting PKA and/or EPAC activity represent a beneficial approach for therapeutic enhancement of remyelination in those demyelinating diseases where GPR17 is highly expressed, such as multiple sclerosis. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Dual color fluorescence quantitative detection of specific single-stranded DNA with molecular beacons and nucleic acid dye SYBR Green I.

PubMed

Xiang, Dong-Shan; Zhou, Guo-Hua; Luo, Ming; Ji, Xing-Hu; He, Zhi-Ke

2012-08-21

We have developed a dual color fluorescence quantitative detection method for specific single-stranded DNA with molecular beacons (MBs) and nucleic acid dye SYBR Green I by synchronous scanning fluorescence spectrometry. It is demonstrated by a reverse-transcription oligonucleotide sequence (target DNA, 33 bases) of RNA fragment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) as a model system. In the absence of target DNA, the MBs are in the stem-closed state, the fluorescence of 5-carboxy-X-rhodamine (ROX) is quenched by black hole quencher-2 (BHQ-2), and the interaction between SYBR Green I and the MBs is very weak. At this time the fluorescence signals of ROX and SYBR Green I are all very weak. In the presence of target DNA, MBs hybridize with target DNA and form a double-strand structure, the fluorophore ROX is separated from the quencher BHQ-2, and the fluorescence of ROX recovers. At the same time, SYBR Green I binds to hybridized dsDNA, whose fluorescence intensity is significantly enhanced. Thus, dual color fluorescence quantitative detection for the target DNA can be realized by synchronous scanning fluorescence spectrometry. In this strategy, the fluorescence signal of SYBR Green I is far larger than that of ROX, so the quantitative analysis of target DNA with the fluorescence intensity of SYBR Green I can significantly improve the detection sensitivity. In addition, the false-positive signals of MBs do not affect the fluorescence signals of nucleic acid dye SYBR Green I. Thereby, in the analysis of complex samples, quantitative analysis of target DNA with SYBR Green I can avoid the false-positive signals of MBs and improve the detection accuracy.

Comparison of the carboxy-terminal DP-repeat region in the co-chaperones Hop and Hip

PubMed Central

Nelson, Gregory M.; Huffman, Holly; Smith, David F.

2003-01-01

Functional steroid receptor complexes are assembled and maintained by an ordered pathway of interactions involving multiple components of the cellular chaperone machinery. Two of these components, Hop and Hip, serve as co-chaperones to the major heat shock proteins (Hsps), Hsp70 and Hsp90, and participate in intermediate stages of receptor assembly. In an effort to better understand the functions of Hop and Hip in the assembly process, we focused on a region of similarity located near the C-terminus of each co-chaperone. Contained within this region is a repeated sequence motif we have termed the DP repeat. Earlier mutagenesis studies implicated the DP repeat of either Hop or Hip in Hsp70 binding and in normal assembly of the co-chaperones with progesterone receptor (PR) complexes. We report here that the DP repeat lies within a protease-resistant domain that extends to or is near the C-terminus of both co-chaperones. Point mutations in the DP repeats render the C-terminal regions hypersensitive to proteolysis. In addition, a Hop DP mutant displays altered proteolytic digestion patterns, which suggest that the DP-repeat region influences the folding of other Hop domains. Although the respective DP regions of Hop and Hip share sequence and structural similarities, they are not functionally interchangeable. Moreover, a double-point mutation within the second DP-repeat unit of Hop that converts this to the sequence found in Hip disrupts Hop function; however, the corresponding mutation in Hip does not alter its function. We conclude that the DP repeats are important structural elements within a C-terminal domain, which is important for Hop and Hip function. PMID:14627198

Comparison of the carboxy-terminal DP-repeat region in the co-chaperones Hop and Hip.

PubMed

Nelson, Gregory M; Huffman, Holly; Smith, David F

2003-01-01

Functional steroid receptor complexes are assembled and maintained by an ordered pathway of interactions involving multiple components of the cellular chaperone machinery. Two of these components, Hop and Hip, serve as co-chaperones to the major heat shock proteins (Hsps), Hsp70 and Hsp90, and participate in intermediate stages of receptor assembly. In an effort to better understand the functions of Hop and Hip in the assembly process, we focused on a region of similarity located near the C-terminus of each co-chaperone. Contained within this region is a repeated sequence motif we have termed the DP repeat. Earlier mutagenesis studies implicated the DP repeat of either Hop or Hip in Hsp70 binding and in normal assembly of the co-chaperones with progesterone receptor (PR) complexes. We report here that the DP repeat lies within a protease-resistant domain that extends to or is near the C-terminus of both co-chaperones. Point mutations in the DP repeats render the C-terminal regions hypersensitive to proteolysis. In addition, a Hop DP mutant displays altered proteolytic digestion patterns, which suggest that the DP-repeat region influences the folding of other Hop domains. Although the respective DP regions of Hop and Hip share sequence and structural similarities, they are not functionally interchangeable. Moreover, a double-point mutation within the second DP-repeat unit of Hop that converts this to the sequence found in Hip disrupts Hop function; however, the corresponding mutation in Hip does not alter its function. We conclude that the DP repeats are important structural elements within a C-terminal domain, which is important for Hop and Hip function.

Apolipoprotein ε7 allele in memory complaints: insights through protein structure prediction.

PubMed

Youn, Young Chul; Lim, Yong Kwan; Han, Su-Hyun; Giau, Vo Van; Lee, Mi-Kyung; Park, Kwang-Yeol; Kim, SangYun; Bagyinszky, Eva; An, Seong Soo A; Kim, Hye Ryoun

2017-01-01

APOE ε7 gene is a rare mutant form of APOE ε3 . The mutation occurs in the lipid-binding domain of APOE. Based on the protein's structure, APOE ε7 is expected to function in lipid and β-amyloid metabolism, similar to APOE ε4 . However, unlike that for APOE ε4 , the mechanisms responsible for Alzheimer's disease (AD) cases associated with APOE ε7 expression have not been elucidated. The present study aims to investigate the association between APOE ε7 expression and cognitive impairment. APOE was sequenced in DNA samples collected from 344 memory-complaint patients who visited the memory clinic, and from 345 non-memory-complaint individuals from the health promotion center. The protein structures of ApoE3, ApoE4, and ApoE7 were predicted. Three ε3 / ε7 heterozygote individuals who were all classified under the memory-complaint group were identified. Of these, two subjects were clinically diagnosed with AD with small vessel disease, and the remaining individual was diagnosed with subjective cognitive impairment. This study predicted the protein structures of ApoE3, ApoE4, and ApoE7 and determined the three-dimensional structure of the carboxy terminus of ApoE7, which participates in an electrostatic domain interaction similar to that of APOE ε4 . APOE K244 or K245 mutations for APOE ε7 were not found in the Korean reference genome database, which contains information (http://152.99.75.168/KRGDB/browser/mainBrowser.jsp) from 622 healthy individuals. As verified by the results of structural prediction, APOE ε7 could serve as another risk factor for cognitive impairment and is particularly associated with vascular disease. However, additional studies are required to validate the pathogenic nature of APOE ε7 .

Fire-retardant decorative inks for aircraft interiors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kourtides, D. A.; Nir, Z.; Mikroyannidis, J. A.

1985-01-01

Commercial and experimental fire retardants were screened as potential fire retardants for acrylic printing inks used on aircraft interior sandwich panels. The fire retardants are selected according to their physical properties and their thermostabilities. A criterion for selecting a more stable fire retardant is established. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) are used to determine thermostabilities. Results show that the fire retardant formulations are more thermally stable than the acrylic ink control. It is determined that an ink formulation containing a brominated phenol and carboxy-terminated butadiene acrylonitrile which has been modified with a brominated polymeric additive (BPA), yields the highest limiting oxygen index (LOI) of all the compounds tested. All of the fire-retardant formulations have a higher oxygen index than the baseline acrylic ink.

Transacylation and Transamidation Reactions in Neat and Dissolved Systems.

DTIC Science & Technology

reaction of non-cyclic carboxy anhydrides with amides and specifically acetanilide has been studied. Preliminary results of the kinetic studies of the reaction of organic bromides with benzoin are reported. (Author)

CA 19-9 (Cancer Antigen 19-9)

MedlinePlus

... Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Tests D-dimer Dengue Fever Testing Des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin (DCP) DHEAS Diabetes-related Autoantibodies ... article.cfm?id=296. Accessed June 28, 2016. De Paula JMP, Toranzo EM, Borge LG, Hidalgo SF. ...

THE SPECIFICITY OF KERATEINE DERIVATIVES.

PubMed

Pillemer, L; Ecker, E E; Martiensen, E W

1939-09-30

Carboxymethyl, alpha-carboxyethyl-, alpha-carboxy-n-propyl-, alpha-carboxyisopropyl-, alpha-carboxy-n-butyl, alpha-carboxyisobutyl, alpha-carboxyamyl-, benzyl-, and beta-phenylethylkeratemes were prepared from the parent protein, reduced keratin or kerateine. Chemical analysis disclosed that the various compounds differed in their isoelectric points and solubilities depending on the nature of the substituent group introduced. In general, it was found that in so far as could be determined, nearly all of the available sulfhydryl groups were substituted, while no detectable substitution of the free amino groups of the proteins occurred. The results of the serologic studies revealed that the kerateine derivatives acquired a new immunologie character dependent on the nature of the introduced determinant group. Inhibition tests confirmed the results obtained. Evidence was also produced to show that the grouping See PDF for structure may play a rôle in some of the reactions observed.

Synthesis of chlorophyll-amino acid conjugates as models for modification of proteins with chromo/fluorophores.

PubMed

Tamiaki, Hitoshi; Isoda, Yasuaki; Tanaka, Takuya; Machida, Shinnosuke

2014-02-15

A chlorophyll-a derivative bonded directly with epoxide at the peripheral position of the chlorin π-system was reacted with N-urethane and C-ester protected amino acids bearing an alcoholic or phenolic hydroxy group as well as a carboxy group at the residue to give chlorophyll-amino acid conjugates. The carboxy residues of N,C-protected aspartic and glutamic acids were esterified with the epoxide in high yields. The synthetic conjugates in dichloromethane had absorption bands throughout the visible region including intense red-side Qy and blue-side Soret bands. By their excitation at the visible bands, strong and efficient fluorescence emission was observed up to the near-infrared region. The chromo/fluorophores are promising for preparation of functional peptides and modification of proteins. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Crystal structure of quinolinium 2-carboxy-6-nitro-benzoate monohydrate.

PubMed

Mohana, J; Divya Bharathi, M; Ahila, G; Chakkaravarthi, G; Anbalagan, G

2015-05-01

In the anion of the title hydrated mol-ecular salt, C9H8N(+)·C8H4NO6 (-)·H2O, the protonated carboxyl and nitro groups makes dihedral angles of 27.56 (5) and 6.86 (8)°, respectively, with the attached benzene ring, whereas the deprotonated carb-oxy group is almost orthogonal to it with a dihedral angle of 80.21 (1)°. In the crystal, the components are linked by O-H⋯O and N-H⋯O hydrogen bonds, generating [001] chains. The packing is consolidated by weak C-H⋯N and C-H⋯O inter-actions as well as aromatic π-π stacking [centroid-to-centroid distances: 3.7023 (8) & 3.6590 (9)Å] inter-actions, resulting in a three-dimensional network.

Gas geyser--a cause of fatal domestic carbon monoxide poisoning.

PubMed

Mohankumar, T S; Kanchan, Tanuj; Pinakini, K S; Menezes, Ritesh G; Singh, Manisha; Sirohi, Parmendra; Anwar, Naureen

2012-11-01

Carbon monoxide is responsible for a large number of accidental domestic poisoning and deaths throughout the world. Domestic carbon monoxide poisoning is rarely reported in India and remains an under recognized problem. The diagnosis of carbon monoxide poisoning is usually based on autopsy findings, circumstantial evidence and estimation of carboxy-haemoglobin in blood. We report a case of fatal accidental carbon monoxide poisoning in a bathroom where an LPG gas water heater was installed recently. Cherry pink discolouration of the body and organs on autopsy suggested carbon monoxide poisoning. Laboratory analysis of blood by UV visible spectrophotometry revealed presence of dangerous levels of carboxy-haemoglobin. Effective preventive measures can help in bringing down the mortality and morbidity associated with carbon monoxide poisoning. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd and Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine. All rights reserved.

Photolyses of mammalian carboxy-hemoglobin studied by photoacoustic calorimetry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, JinYu; Li, JiaHuang; Zhang, Zheng; Zhang, ShuYi; Qu, Min; Fang, JianWen; Hua, ZiChun

2013-07-01

The enthalpy and conformational volume changes in the photolyses of carboxy-hemoglobin (HbCO) of human, bovine, pig, horse and rabbit are investigated by photoacoustic calorimetry. Considering the time scales of the exciting laser pulse and the receiving ultrasound transducers (PVDF films and PZT ceramics), as well as the reaction lifetimes in the photolysis processes of HbCO, the measured results are related to the geminate recombination and tertiary relaxation in photolyses of HbCO. Moreover, the quantum yields of the five mammals are also measured by laser pump-probe technique. The results show that the dynamic parameters, such as enthalpy and conformational volume changes, differ between the processes of the geminate recombination and tertiary relaxation. Also, the dynamic parameters differ among the five mammals although some of them may be consistent with each other.

Theoretical study of the hydrolysis mechanism of 2-pyrone-4,6-dicarboxylate (PDC) catalyzed by LigI.

PubMed

Zhang, Shujun; Ma, Guangcai; Liu, Yongjun; Ling, Baoping

2015-09-01

2-Pyrone-4,6-dicarboxylate lactonase (LigI) is the first identified enzyme from amidohydrolase superfamily that does not require a divalent metal ion for catalytic activity. It catalyzes the reversible hydrolysis of 2-pyrone-4,6-dicarboxylate (PDC) to 4-oxalomesaconate (OMA) and 4-carboxy-2-hydroxymuconate (CHM) in the degradation of lignin. In this paper, a combined quantum mechanics and molecule mechanics (QM/MM) approach was employed to study the reaction mechanism of LigI from Sphingomonas paucimobilis. According to the results of our calculations, the whole catalytic reaction contains three elementary steps, including the nucleophilic attack, the cleavage of CO of lactone (substrate) and the intramolecular proton transfer. The intermediate has two intramolecular proton transfer pathways, due to which, two final hydrolysis products can be obtained. The energy profile indicates that 4-carboxy-2-hydroxymuconate (CHM) is the main hydrolysis product, therefore, the isomerization between 4-carboxy-2-hydroxymuconate (CHM) and 4-oxalomesaconate (OMA) is suggested to occur in solvent. During the catalytic reaction, residue Asp248 acts as a general base to activate the hydrolytic water molecule. Although His31, His33 and His180 do not directly participate in the chemical process, they play assistant roles by forming electrostatic interactions with the substrate and its involved species in activating the carbonyl group of the substrate and stabilizing the intermediates and transition states. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

EVI1 carboxy-terminal phosphorylation is ATM-mediated and sustains transcriptional modulation and self-renewal via enhanced CtBP1 association.

PubMed

Paredes, Roberto; Schneider, Marion; Stevens, Adam; White, Daniel J; Williamson, Andrew Jk; Muter, Joanne; Pearson, Stella; Kelly, James R; Connors, Kathleen; Wiseman, Daniel H; Chadwick, John A; Löffler, Harald; Teng, Hsiang Ying; Lovell, Simon; Unwin, Richard; van de Vrugt, Henri J; Smith, Helen; Kustikova, Olga; Schambach, Axel; Somervaille, Tim C P; Pierce, Andrew; Whetton, Anthony D; Meyer, Stefan

2018-06-25

The transcriptional regulator EVI1 has an essential role in early hematopoiesis and development. However, aberrantly high expression of EVI1 has potent oncogenic properties and confers poor prognosis and chemo-resistance in leukemia and solid tumors. To investigate to what extent EVI1 function might be regulated by post-translational modifications we carried out mass spectrometry- and antibody-based analyses and uncovered an ATM-mediated double phosphorylation of EVI1 at the carboxy-terminal S858/S860 SQS motif. In the presence of genotoxic stress EVI1-WT (SQS), but not site mutated EVI1-AQA was able to maintain transcriptional patterns and transformation potency, while under standard conditions carboxy-terminal mutation had no effect. Maintenance of hematopoietic progenitor cell clonogenic potential was profoundly impaired with EVI1-AQA compared with EVI1-WT, in particular in the presence of genotoxic stress. Exploring mechanistic events underlying these observations, we showed that after genotoxic stress EVI1-WT, but not EVI1-AQA increased its level of association with its functionally essential interaction partner CtBP1, implying a role for ATM in regulating EVI1 protein interactions via phosphorylation. This aspect of EVI1 regulation is therapeutically relevant, as chemotherapy-induced genotoxicity might detrimentally sustain EVI1 function via stress response mediated phosphorylation, and ATM-inhibition might be of specific targeted benefit in EVI1-overexpressing malignancies.

Alternative pathways of dehydroascorbic acid degradation in vitro and in plant cell cultures: novel insights into vitamin C catabolism.

PubMed

Parsons, Harriet T; Yasmin, Tayyaba; Fry, Stephen C

2011-12-15

L-Ascorbate catabolism involves reversible oxidation to DHA (dehydroascorbic acid), then irreversible oxidation or hydrolysis. The precursor-product relationships and the identity of several major DHA breakdown products remained unclear. In the presence of added H2O2, DHA underwent little hydrolysis to DKG (2,3-dioxo-L-gulonate). Instead, it yielded OxT (oxalyl L-threonate), cOxT (cyclic oxalyl L-threonate) and free oxalate (~6:1:1), essentially simultaneously, suggesting that all three product classes independently arose from one reactive intermediate, proposed to be cyclic-2,3-O-oxalyl-L-threonolactone. Only with plant apoplastic esterases present were the esters significant precursors of free oxalate. Without added H2O2, DHA was slowly hydrolysed to DKG. Downstream of DKG was a singly ionized dicarboxy compound (suggested to be 2-carboxy-L-xylonolactone plus 2-carboxy-L-lyxonolactone), which reversibly de-lactonized to a dianionic carboxypentonate. Formation of these lactones and acid was minimized by the presence of residual unreacted ascorbate. In vivo, the putative 2-carboxy-L-pentonolactones were relatively stable. We propose that DHA is a branch-point in ascorbate catabolism, being either oxidized to oxalate and its esters or hydrolysed to DKG and downstream carboxypentonates. The oxidation/hydrolysis ratio is governed by reactive oxygen species status. In vivo, oxalyl esters are enzymatically hydrolysed, but the carboxypentonates are stable. The biological roles of these ascorbate metabolites invite future exploration.

The HMGA proteins: a myriad of functions (Review).

PubMed

Cleynen, Isabelle; Van de Ven, Wim J M

2008-02-01

The 'high mobility group' HMGA protein family consists of four members: HMGA1a, HMGA1b and HMGA1c, which result from translation of alternative spliced forms of one gene and HMGA2, which is encoded for by another gene. HMGA proteins are characterized by three DNA-binding domains, called AT-hooks, and an acidic carboxy-terminal tail. HMGA proteins are architectural transcription factors that both positively and negatively regulate the transcription of a variety of genes. They do not display direct transcriptional activation capacity, but regulate gene expression by changing the DNA conformation by binding to AT-rich regions in the DNA and/or direct interaction with several transcription factors. In this way, they influence a diverse array of normal biological processes including cell growth, proliferation, differentiation and death. Both HMGA1 and HMGA2 are hardly detectable in normal adult tissue but are abundantly and ubiquitously expressed during embryonic development. In malignant epithelial tumors as well as in leukemia, however, expression of HMGA1 is again strongly elevated to embryonic levels thus leading to ectopic expression of (fetal) target genes. HMGA2 overexpression also has a causal role in inducing neoplasia. Besides overexpression of full length HMGA proteins in different tumors, the HMGA genes are often involved in chromosomal rearrangements. Such translocations are mostly detected in benign tumors of mesenchymal origin and are believed to be one of the most common chromosomal rearrangements in human neoplasia. To provide clarity in the abundance of articles on this topic, this review gives a general overview of the nuclear functions and regulation of the HMGA genes and corresponding proteins.

Gab1 Acts as an Adapter Molecule Linking the Cytokine Receptor gp130 to ERK Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase

PubMed Central

Takahashi-Tezuka, Mariko; Yoshida, Yuichi; Fukada, Toshiyuki; Ohtani, Takuya; Yamanaka, Yojiro; Nishida, Keigo; Nakajima, Koichi; Hibi, Masahiko; Hirano, Toshio

1998-01-01

Gab1 has structural similarities with Drosophila DOS (daughter of sevenless), which is a substrate of the protein tyrosine phosphatase Corkscrew. Both Gab1 and DOS have a pleckstrin homology domain and tyrosine residues, potential binding sites for various SH2 domain-containing adapter molecules when they are phosphorylated. We found that Gab1 was tyrosine phosphorylated in response to various cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-3, alpha interferon (IFN-α), and IFN-γ. Upon the stimulation of IL-6 or IL-3, Gab1 was found to form a complex with phosphatidylinositol (PI)-3 kinase and SHP-2, a homolog of Corkscrew. Mutational analysis of gp130, the common subunit of IL-6 family cytokine receptors, revealed that neither tyrosine residues of gp130 nor its carboxy terminus was required for tyrosine phosphorylation of Gab1. Expression of Gab1 enhanced gp130-dependent mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase ERK2 activation. A mutation of tyrosine 759, the SHP-2 binding site of gp130, abrogated the interactions of Gab1 with SHP-2 and PI-3 kinase as well as ERK2 activation. Furthermore, ERK2 activation was inhibited by a dominant negative p85 PI-3 kinase, wortmannin, or a dominant negative Ras. These observations suggest that Gab1 acts as an adapter molecule in transmitting signals to ERK MAP kinase for the cytokine receptor gp130 and that SHP-2, PI-3 kinase, and Ras are involved in Gab1-mediated ERK activation. PMID:9632795

Structure-function analysis of Sua5 protein reveals novel functional motifs required for the biosynthesis of the universal t6A tRNA modification.

PubMed

Pichard-Kostuch, Adeline; Zhang, Wenhua; Liger, Dominique; Daugeron, Marie-Claire; Letoquart, Juliette; Li de la Sierra-Gallay, Ines; Forterre, Patrick; Collinet, Bruno; van Tilbeurgh, Herman; Basta, Tamara

2018-04-12

N6-threonyl-carbamoyl adenosine (t6A) is a universal tRNA modification found at position 37, next to the anticodon, in almost all tRNAs decoding ANN codons (where N = A, U, G or C). t6A stabilizes the codon-anticodon interaction and hence promotes translation fidelity. The first step of the biosynthesis of t6A, the production of threonyl-carbamoyl adenylate (TC-AMP), is catalyzed by the Sua5/TsaC family of enzymes. While TsaC is a single domain protein, Sua5 enzymes are composed of the TsaC-like domain, a linker and an extra domain called SUA5 of unknown function. In the present study, we report structure-function analysis of Pyrococcus abyssi Sua5 (Pa-Sua5). Crystallographic data revealed binding sites for bicarbonate substrate and pyrophosphate product. The linker of Pa-Sua5 forms a loop structure that folds into the active site gorge and closes it. Using structure-guided mutational analysis we established that the conserved sequence motifs in the linker and the domain-domain interface are essential for the function of Pa-Sua5. We propose that the linker participates actively in the biosynthesis of TC-AMP by binding to ATP/PPi and by stabilizing the N-carboxy-L-threonine intermediate. Hence, TsaC orthologs which lack such a linker and SUA5 domain use different mechanism for TC-AMP synthesis. Published by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press for the RNA Society.

Adsorption and carbonylation of plasma proteins by dialyser membrane material: in vitro and in vivo proteomics investigations

PubMed Central

Pavone, Barbara; Sirolli, Vittorio; Bucci, Sonia; Libardi, Fulvio; Felaco, Paolo; Amoroso, Luigi; Sacchetta, Paolo; Urbani, Andrea; Bonomini, Mario

2010-01-01

Background. Protein carbonylation is an irreversible and not reparable reaction which is caused by the introduction into proteins of carbonyl derivatives such as ketones and aldehydes, generated from direct oxidation processes or from secondary protein reaction with reactive carbonyl compounds. Several studies have demonstrated significantly increased levels of reactive carbonyl compounds, a general increase in plasma protein carbonyls and carbonyl formation on major plasma proteins in blood from uremic patients, particularly those undergoing chronic haemodialysis. Materials and methods. In the present preliminary study, we first assessed by an in vitro filtration apparatus the possible effects of different materials used for haemodialysis membranes on protein retention and carbonylation. We employed hollow fiber minidialyzers of identical structural characteristics composed of either polymethylmethacrylate, ethylenevinyl alcohol, or cellulose diacetate materials. Protein Western Blot and SDS-PAGE coupled to mass spectrometry analysis were applied to highlight the carbonylated protein-binding characteristics of the different materials. We also investigated in vivo protein carbonylation and carboxy methyl lisine-modification in plasma obtained before and after a haemodialysis session. Results. Our data underline a different capability on protein adsorption associated with the different properties of the filter materials, highlighting the central buffering and protective role of serum albumin. In particular, polymethylmethacrylate and cellulose diacetate showed, in vitro, the highest capacity of binding plasma proteins on the surface of the hollow fiber minidialyzers. Conclusions. The present study suggests that biomaterials used for fabrication of haemodialysis membrane may affect the carbonyl balance in chronic uremic patients. PMID:20606741

Crystallization of the C-terminal head domain of the avian adenovirus CELO long fibre

PubMed Central

Guardado Calvo, Pablo; Llamas-Saiz, Antonio L.; Langlois, Patrick; van Raaij, Mark J.

2006-01-01

Avian adenovirus CELO contains two different fibres: fibre 1, the long fibre, and fibre 2, the short fibre. The short fibre is responsible for binding to an unknown avian receptor and is essential for infection of birds. The long fibre is not essential, but is known to bind the coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor protein. Both trimeric fibres are attached to the same penton base, of which each icosahedral virus contains 12 copies. The short fibre extends straight outwards, while the long fibre emerges at an angle. The carboxy-terminal amino acids 579–793 of the avian adenovirus long fibre have been expressed with an amino-terminal hexahistidine tag and the expressed trimeric protein has been purified by nickel-affinity chromatography and crystallized. Crystals were grown at low pH using PEG 10 000 as precipitant and belonged to space group C2. The crystals diffracted rotating-anode Cu Kα radiation to at least 1.9 Å resolution and a complete data set was collected from a single crystal to 2.2 Å resolution. Unit-cell parameters were a = 216.5, b = 59.2, c = 57.5 Å, β = 101.3°, suggesting one trimer per asymmetric unit and a solvent content of 46%. The long fibre head does not have significant sequence homology to any other protein of known structure and molecular-replacement attempts with known fibre-head structures were unsuccessful. However, a map calculated using SIRAS phasing shows a clear trimer with a shape similar to known adenovirus fibre-head structures. Structure solution is in progress. PMID:16682773

Haematopoietic malignancies caused by dysregulation of a chromatin-binding PHD finger.

PubMed

Wang, Gang G; Song, Jikui; Wang, Zhanxin; Dormann, Holger L; Casadio, Fabio; Li, Haitao; Luo, Jun-Li; Patel, Dinshaw J; Allis, C David

2009-06-11

Histone H3 lysine 4 methylation (H3K4me) has been proposed as a critical component in regulating gene expression, epigenetic states, and cellular identities1. The biological meaning of H3K4me is interpreted by conserved modules including plant homeodomain (PHD) fingers that recognize varied H3K4me states. The dysregulation of PHD fingers has been implicated in several human diseases, including cancers and immune or neurological disorders. Here we report that fusing an H3K4-trimethylation (H3K4me3)-binding PHD finger, such as the carboxy-terminal PHD finger of PHF23 or JARID1A (also known as KDM5A or RBBP2), to a common fusion partner nucleoporin-98 (NUP98) as identified in human leukaemias, generated potent oncoproteins that arrested haematopoietic differentiation and induced acute myeloid leukaemia in murine models. In these processes, a PHD finger that specifically recognizes H3K4me3/2 marks was essential for leukaemogenesis. Mutations in PHD fingers that abrogated H3K4me3 binding also abolished leukaemic transformation. NUP98-PHD fusion prevented the differentiation-associated removal of H3K4me3 at many loci encoding lineage-specific transcription factors (Hox(s), Gata3, Meis1, Eya1 and Pbx1), and enforced their active gene transcription in murine haematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. Mechanistically, NUP98-PHD fusions act as 'chromatin boundary factors', dominating over polycomb-mediated gene silencing to 'lock' developmentally critical loci into an active chromatin state (H3K4me3 with induced histone acetylation), a state that defined leukaemia stem cells. Collectively, our studies represent, to our knowledge, the first report that deregulation of the PHD finger, an 'effector' of specific histone modification, perturbs the epigenetic dynamics on developmentally critical loci, catastrophizes cellular fate decision-making, and even causes oncogenesis during mammalian development.

Structural Insight Into Histone Recognition by the ING PHD Fingers

PubMed Central

Champagne, Karen S.; Kutateladze, Tatiana G.

2009-01-01

The Inhibitor of Growth (ING) tumor suppressors are implicated in oncogenesis, control of DNA damage repair, cellular senescence and apoptosis. All members of the ING family contain unique amino-terminal regions and a carboxy-terminal plant homeodomain (PHD) finger. While the amino-terminal domains associate with a number of protein effectors including distinct components of histone deacetylase (HDAC) and histone acetyltransferase (HAT) complexes, the PHD finger binds strongly and specifically to histone H3 trimethylated at lysine 4 (H3K4me3). In this review we describe the molecular mechanism of H3K4me3 recognition by the ING1-5 PHD fingers, analyze the determinants of the histone specificity and compare the biological activities and structures within subsets of PHD fingers. The atomic-resolution structures of the ING PHD fingers in complex with a H3K4me3 peptide reveal that the histone tail is bound in a large and deep binding site encompassing nearly one-third of the protein surface. An extensive network of intermolecular hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic and cation-π contacts, and complementary surface interactions coordinate the first six residues of the H3K4me3 peptide. The trimethylated Lys4 occupies an elongated groove, formed by the highly conserved aromatic and hydrophobic residues of the PHD finger, whereas the adjacent groove accommodates Arg2. The two grooves are connected by a narrow channel, the small size of which defines the PHD finger’s specificity, excluding interactions with other modified histone peptides. Binding of the ING PHD fingers to H3K4me3 plays a critical role in regulating chromatin acetylation. The ING proteins function as tethering molecules that physically link the HDAC and HAT enzymatic complexes to chromatin. In this review we also highlight progress recently made in understanding the molecular basis underlying biological and tumorigenic activities of the ING tumor suppressors. PMID:19442115

Synthesis and Functional Characterization of Novel Sialyl LewisX Mimic-Decorated Liposomes for E-selectin-Mediated Targeting to Inflamed Endothelial Cells.

PubMed

Chantarasrivong, Chanikarn; Ueki, Akiharu; Ohyama, Ryutaro; Unga, Johan; Nakamura, Shinya; Nakanishi, Isao; Higuchi, Yuriko; Kawakami, Shigeru; Ando, Hiromune; Imamura, Akihiro; Ishida, Hideharu; Yamashita, Fumiyoshi; Kiso, Makoto; Hashida, Mitsuru

2017-05-01

Sialyl LewisX (sLeX) is a natural ligand of E-selectin that is overexpressed by inflamed and tumor endothelium. Although sLeX is a potential ligand for drug targeting, synthesis of the tetrasaccharide is complicated with many reaction steps. In this study, structurally simplified novel sLeX analogues were designed and linked with 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-polyethylene glycol-2000 (DSPE-PEG) for E-selectin-mediated liposomal delivery. The sLeX structural simplification strategies include (1) replacement of the Gal-GlcNAc disaccharide unit with lactose to reduce many initial steps and (2) substitution of neuraminic acid with a negatively charged group, i.e., 3'-sulfo, 3'-carboxymethyl (3'-CM), or 3'-(1-carboxy)ethyl (3'-CE). While all the liposomes developed were similar in particle size and charge, the 3'-CE sLeX mimic liposome demonstrated the highest uptake in inflammatory cytokine-treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), being even more potent than native sLeX-decorated liposomes. Inhibition studies using antiselectin antibodies revealed that their uptake was mediated primarily by overexpressed E-selectin on inflamed HUVECs. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to gain mechanistic insight into the E-selectin binding differences among native and mimic sLeX. The terminally branched methyl group of the 3'-CE sLeX mimic oriented and faced the bulk hydrophilic solution during E-selectin binding. Since this state is entropically unfavorable, the 3'-CE sLeX mimic molecule might be pushed toward the binding pocket of E-selectin by a hydrophobic effect, leading to a higher probability of hydrogen-bond formation than native sLeX and the 3'-CM sLeX mimic. This corresponded with the fact that the 3'-CE sLeX mimic liposome exhibited much greater uptake than the 3'-CM sLeX mimic liposome.

Comparison of the functional potencies of ropinirole and other dopamine receptor agonists at human D2(long), D3 and D4.4 receptors expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells

PubMed Central

Coldwell, Martyn C; Boyfield, Izzy; Brown, Tony; Hagan, Jim J; Middlemiss, Derek N

1999-01-01

The aim of the present study was to characterize functional responses to ropinirole, its major metabolites in man (SKF-104557 (4-[2-(propylamino)ethyl]-2-(3H) indolone), SKF-97930 (4-carboxy-2-(3H) indolone)) and other dopamine receptor agonists at human dopamine D2(long) (hD2), D3 (hD3) and D4.4 (hD4) receptors separately expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells using microphysiometry.All the receptor agonists tested (ropinirole, SKF-104557, SKF-97930, bromocriptine, lisuride, pergolide, pramipexole, talipexole, dopamine) increased extracellular acidification rate in Chinese hamster ovary clones expressing the human D2, D3 or D4 receptor. The pEC50s of ropinirole at hD2, hD3 and hD4 receptors were 7.4, 8.4 and 6.8, respectively. Ropinirole is therefore at least 10 fold selective for the human dopamine D3 receptor over the other D2 receptor family members.At the hD2 and hD3 dopamine receptors all the compounds tested were full agonists as compared to quinpirole. Talipexole and the ropinirole metabolite, SKF-104557, were partial agonists at the hD4 receptor.Bromocriptine and lisuride had a slow onset of agonist action which precluded determination of EC50s.The rank order of agonist potencies was dissimilar to the rank order of radioligand binding affinities at each of the dopamine receptor subtypes. Functional selectivities of the dopamine receptor agonists, as measured in the microphysiometer, were less than radioligand binding selectivities.The results show that ropinirole is a full agonist at human D2, D3 and D4 dopamine receptors. SKF-104557 the major human metabolite of ropinirole, had similar radioligand binding affinities to, but lower functional potencies than, the parent compound. PMID:10455328

Movement of gating machinery during the activation of rod cyclic nucleotide-gated channels.

PubMed Central

Brown, R L; Snow, S D; Haley, T L

1998-01-01

In the visual and olfactory systems, cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) ion channels convert stimulus-induced changes in the internal concentrations of cGMP and cAMP into changes in membrane potential. Although it is known that significant activation of these channels requires the binding of three or more molecules of ligand, the detailed molecular mechanism remains obscure. We have probed the structural changes that occur during channel activation by using sulfhydryl-reactive methanethiosulfonate (MTS) reagents and N-ethylmaleimide (NEM). When expressed in Xenopus oocytes, the alpha-subunit of the bovine retinal channel forms homomultimeric channels that are activated by cGMP with a K1/2 of approximately 100 microM. Cyclic AMP, on the other hand, is a very poor activator; a saturating concentration elicits only 1% of the maximum current produced by cGMP. Treatment of excised patches with MTS-ethyltrimethylamine (MTSET) or NEM dramatically potentiated the channel's response to both cyclic nucleotides. After MTSET treatment, the dose-response relation for cGMP was shifted by over two orders of magnitude to lower concentrations. The effect on channel activation by cAMP was even more striking. After modification, the channels were fully activated by cAMP with a K1/2 of approximately 60 microM. This potentiation was abolished by conversion of Cys481 to a nonreactive alanine residue. Potentiation occurred more rapidly in the presence of saturating cGMP, indicating that this region of the channel is more accessible when the channel is open. Cys481 is located in a linker region between the transmembrane and cGMP-binding domains of the channel. These results suggest that this region of the channel undergoes significant movement during the activation process and is critical for coupling ligand binding to pore opening. Potentiation, however, is not mediated by the recently reported interaction between the amino- and carboxy-terminal regions of the alpha-subunit. Deletion of the entire amino-terminal domain had little effect on potentiation by MTSET. PMID:9675183

Sequence, overproduction and purification of Vibrio proteolyticus ribosomal protein L18 for in vitro and in vivo studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Setterquist, R. A.; Smith, G. K.; Oakley, T. H.; Lee, Y. H.; Fox, G. E.

1996-01-01

A strategy suggested by comparative genomic studies was used to amplify the entire Vibrio proteolyticus (Vp) gene for ribosomal protein L18. Vp L18 and its flanking regions were sequenced and compared with the deduced amino acid (aa) sequences of other known L18 proteins. A 26-aa residue segment at the carboxy terminus contains many strongly conserved residues and may be critical for the L18 interaction with 5S rRNA. This approach should allow rapid characterization of L18 from large numbers of bacteria. Both Vp L18 and Escherichia coli (Ec) L18 were overproduced and purified using a T7 expression vector which fuses an N-terminal peptide segment (His-tag) containing 6 histidine residues to the recombinant protein. The purified fusion proteins, Vp His::L18 and Ec His::L18, were both found to bind to either the Vp 5S or Ec 5S rRNAs in vitro. Vp His::L18 protein was also shown to incorporate into Ec ribosomes in vivo. This His-tag strategy likely will have general applicability for the study of ribosomal proteins in vitro and in vivo.

Threonine-4 of mammalian RNA polymerase II CTD is targeted by Polo-like kinase 3 and required for transcriptional elongation

PubMed Central

Hintermair, Corinna; Heidemann, Martin; Koch, Frederic; Descostes, Nicolas; Gut, Marta; Gut, Ivo; Fenouil, Romain; Ferrier, Pierre; Flatley, Andrew; Kremmer, Elisabeth; Chapman, Rob D; Andrau, Jean-Christophe; Eick, Dirk

2012-01-01

Eukaryotic RNA polymerase II (Pol II) has evolved an array of heptad repeats with the consensus sequence Tyr1-Ser2-Pro3-Thr4-Ser5-Pro6-Ser7 at the carboxy-terminal domain (CTD) of the large subunit (Rpb1). Differential phosphorylation of Ser2, Ser5, and Ser7 in the 5′ and 3′ regions of genes coordinates the binding of transcription and RNA processing factors to the initiating and elongating polymerase complexes. Here, we report phosphorylation of Thr4 by Polo-like kinase 3 in mammalian cells. ChIPseq analyses indicate an increase of Thr4-P levels in the 3′ region of genes occurring subsequently to an increase of Ser2-P levels. A Thr4/Ala mutant of Pol II displays a lethal phenotype. This mutant reveals a global defect in RNA elongation, while initiation is largely unaffected. Since Thr4 replacement mutants are viable in yeast we conclude that this amino acid has evolved an essential function(s) in the CTD of Pol II for gene transcription in mammalian cells. PMID:22549466

Over-expression of mango (Mangifera indica L.) MiARF2 inhibits root and hypocotyl growth of Arabidopsis.

PubMed

Wu, Bei; Li, Yun-He; Wu, Jian-Yong; Chen, Qi-Zhu; Huang, Xia; Chen, Yun-Feng; Huang, Xue-Lin

2011-06-01

An auxin response factor 2 gene, MiARF2, was cloned in our previous study [1] from the cotyledon section of mango (Mangifera indica L. cv. Zihua) during adventitious root formation, which shares an 84% amino acid sequence similarity to Arabidopsis ARF2. This study was to examine the effects of over-expression of the full-length MiARF2 open reading frame on the root and hypocotyl growth in Arabidopsis. Phenotype analysis showed that the T(3) transgenic lines had about 20-30% reduction in the length of hypocotyls and roots of the seedlings in comparison with the wild-type. The transcription levels of ANT and ARGOS genes which play a role in controlling organ size and cell proliferation in the transgenic seedlings also decreased. Therefore, the inhibited root and hypocotyl growth in the transgenic seedlings may be associated with the down-regulated transcription of ANT and ARGOS by the over-expression of MiARF2. This study also suggests that although MiARF2 only has a single DNA-binding domain (DBD), it can function as other ARF-like proteins containing complete DBD, middle region (MR) and carboxy-terminal dimerization domain (CTD).

The structure of the core NuRD repression complex provides insights into its interaction with chromatin

PubMed Central

Millard, Christopher J; Varma, Niranjan; Saleh, Almutasem; Morris, Kyle; Watson, Peter J; Bottrill, Andrew R; Fairall, Louise; Smith, Corinne J; Schwabe, John WR

2016-01-01

The NuRD complex is a multi-protein transcriptional corepressor that couples histone deacetylase and ATP-dependent chromatin remodelling activities. The complex regulates the higher-order structure of chromatin, and has important roles in the regulation of gene expression, DNA damage repair and cell differentiation. HDACs 1 and 2 are recruited by the MTA1 corepressor to form the catalytic core of the complex. The histone chaperone protein RBBP4, has previously been shown to bind to the carboxy-terminal tail of MTA1. We show that MTA1 recruits a second copy of RBBP4. The crystal structure reveals an extensive interface between MTA1 and RBBP4. An EM structure, supported by SAXS and crosslinking, reveals the architecture of the dimeric HDAC1:MTA1:RBBP4 assembly which forms the core of the NuRD complex. We find evidence that in this complex RBBP4 mediates interaction with histone H3 tails, but not histone H4, suggesting a mechanism for recruitment of the NuRD complex to chromatin. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.13941.001 PMID:27098840

Elastomeric gradients: a hedge against stress concentration in marine holdfasts?

PubMed

Waite, J Herbert; Vaccaro, Eleonora; Sun, Chengjun; Lucas, Jared M

2002-02-28

The byssal threads of marine mussels are elastomeric fibres with a great capacity for absorbing and dissipating energy. Up to 70% of the total absorbed energy can be dissipated in the byssus. Because byssal threads attach the mussel to hard inert surfaces in its habitat, they must combine the need to be good shock absorbers with appropriate matching of Young's modulus between living tissue and a hard sub-stratum such as stone - stiffnesses that can differ by five orders of magnitude. Recent data suggest that improved modulus matching and decreased stress concentration between different portions of the byssus is achieved by the use of protein gradients. Protein gradients in byssal threads are constructed using natural macromolecular chimeras having a central collagenous domain, variable flanking modules and histidine-rich amino and carboxy termini. Stiff silk-like flanking modules prevail distally, while at the animal end, rubbery modules resembling elastin predominate. In between the two thread ends there is a mix of both module types. The histidine-rich termini provide metal binding/cross-linking sites, while collagen domains may confer self-assembly on all parts of the structure. A graded axial distribution of flanking modules is expected to moderate stress concentration in joined materials having disparate moduli.

Functionalization of paramagnetic nanoparticles for protein immobilization and purification.

PubMed

Carneiro, Lara A B C; Ward, Richard J

2018-01-01

A paramagnetic nanocomposite coated with chitosan and N-(5-Amino-1-carboxy-pentyl) iminodiacetic acid (NTA) that is suitable for protein immobilization applications has been prepared and characterized. The nanoparticle core was synthesized by controlled aggregation of Fe 3 O 4 under alkaline conditions, and Transmission Electron Microscopy revealed a size distribution of 10-50 nm. The nanoparticle core was coated with chitosan and derivatized with glutaraldehyde and NTA, as confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. The final nanoparticles were used as a metal affinity matrix to separate a recombinant polyhistidine-tagged β-galactosidase from Bacillus subtilis directly from E. coli cell lysates with high purity (>95%). After loading with Ni 2+ , nanoparticles demonstrated a binding capacity of 250 μg of a polyhistidine-tagged β-galactosidase per milligram of support. The immobilized enzyme retained 80% activity after 9 cycles of washing, and the immobilized recombinant protein could be eluted with high purity with imidazole. The applications for these nanomagnetic composites extend beyond protein purification, and can also be used for immobilizing enzymes, where the β-galactosidase immobilized on the nanomagnetic support was used in multiple cycles of catalytic reactions with no significant loss of catalytic activity. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

A subunit vaccine against the adenovirus egg-drop syndrome using part of its fiber protein.

PubMed

Fingerut, E; Gutter, B; Gallili, G; Michael, A; Pitcovski, J

2003-06-20

In this study, the effectiveness of antibodies against the hexon, fiber or a fiber fragment of an avian adenovirus egg-drop syndrome (EDS), in neutralizing the virus was tested. The fiber protein is responsible for binding the virus to the target cell. The fiber fragment knob-s comprises the carboxy-terminal knob domain and 34 amino acids of the immediately adjacent shaft domain of the adenovirus fiber protein. The hexon, fiber capsid protein and knob-s were produced in E. coli and injected into chickens. Antibodies that were produced against the whole fiber protein showed some hemagglutination inhibition (HI) activity. Antibodies produced against the knob-s protein showed HI activity and serum neutralization (SN) activity similar to the positive control-whole virus vaccine. We assume that production of only part of the fiber enables the protein produced in E. coli to fold correctly. Antibodies produced against the hexon protein showed no SN activity. In summary, knob-s induced SN and HI antibodies against EDS virus at a rate similar to the whole virus and were significantly more efficient than the full-length fiber. The recombinant knob-s protein may be used as a vaccine against pathogenic adenovirus infections.

Cutaneous Papillomavirus E6 oncoproteins associate with MAML1 to repress transactivation and NOTCH signaling

PubMed Central

Brimer, Nicole; Lyons, Charles; Wallberg, Annika E.; Vande Pol, Scott B.

2011-01-01

Papillomavirus E6 oncoproteins associate with LXXLL motifs on target cellular proteins to alter their function. Using a proteomic approach, we found the E6 oncoproteins of cutaneous papillomaviruses Bovine Papillomavirus Type 1 (BE6) and HPV types 1 and 8 (1E6 and 8E6) associated with the MAML1 transcriptional co-activator. All three E6 proteins bind to an acidic LXXLL motif at the carboxy-terminus of MAML1 and repress transactivation by MAML1. MAML1 is best known as the co-activator and effector of NOTCH induced transcription, and BPV-1 E6 represses synthetic NOTCH responsive promoters, endogenous NOTCH responsive promoters, and is found in a complex with MAML1 in stably transformed cells. BPV-1 induced papillomas show characteristics of repressed NOTCH signal transduction, including suprabasal expression of integrins, talin, and basal type keratins, and delayed expression of the NOTCH dependent HES1 transcription factor. These observations give rise to a model whereby papillomavirus oncoproteins including BPV-1 E6 and the cancer associated HPV-8 E6 repress Notch induced transcription, thereby delaying keratinocyte differentiation. PMID:22249263

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ballermann, B.J.

To enable serial measurements of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) concentrations in the rat, a microradioreceptor assay (RRA) for this hormone was developed. Glomerular microsomes bearing ANP receptors were used to bind ANP. The smallest quantity of ANP detectable by this method was 0.2 fmol/sample. By contrast, a radioimmunoassay for ANP was sensitive to 2.4 fmol/sample. The intra- and interassay coefficients of variation for the RRA were 4.1 and 11.6%, respectively. Recovery of 10, 20, 50, and 100 pM synthetic ANP added to unextracted rat plasma was essentially 100%. Biologically inactive, synthetic amino- and carboxy-terminal ANP fragments added to ratmore » plasma were not detected. Plasma ANP was stable when measured four consecutive times at 90-min intervals in 10 fasting rats. In a separate group of rats, fasting plasma ANP levels averaged 34 {plus minus} 3 and rose to 57 {plus minus} 5 pM in the postprandial state, whereas levels in fasting time controls remained constant. It is concluded that the RRA for ANP described here detects ANP in microliter quantities of unextracted rat plasma. Thus serial measurements of ANP concentrations can be undertaken in rats without inducing major changes in the volume status.« less

Characterization of Yeast Aspartic Protease 3 (A novel basic-residue specific prohormone processing enzyme)

DTIC Science & Technology

1995-05-16

92 Cholecystokinin 33...92 Proinsulin. cholecystokinin 13-33, dynorphin A, dynorphin B. amidorphin and ACTIl1...lipotropin hormone t-butyloxycarbonyl Bovine serum albumin Carboxy-. amino- Cholecystokinin Corticotropin-like intermediate lobe peptide

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cetrangolo, Giovanni Paolo, E-mail: giovanni.cetrangolo@unimol.it; Arcaro, Alessia, E-mail: alessia.arcaro@unimol.it; Lepore, Alessio, E-mail: alessiolepore@alice.it

Highlights: • A carboxy-terminal fragment (residues 2515–2750) was isolated from a low-iodine bTg. • Post-translational status of 8 tyrosines in bTg region 2515–2750 was assessed by MS. • Tyr2522 of bovine Tg is an interspecifically conserved hormonogenic donor site. • Propensities of Tyr residues to mono or diiodination optimize T3 yield from Tyr2748. - Abstract: A tryptic fragment (b5{sub TR,NR}), encompassing residues 2515–2750, was isolated from a low-iodine (0.26% by mass) bovine thyroglobulin, by limited proteolysis with trypsin and preparative, continuous-elution SDS–PAGE. The fragment was digested with Asp-N endoproteinase and analyzed by reverse-phase HPLC electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry,more » revealing the formation of: 3-monoiodotyrosine and dehydroalanine from Tyr2522; 3-monoiodotyrosine from Tyr2555 and Tyr2569; 3-monoiodotyrosine and 3,5-diiodotyrosine from Tyr2748. The data presented document, by direct mass spectrometric identifications, efficient iodophenoxyl ring transfer from monoiodinated hormonogenic donor Tyr2522 and efficient mono- and diiodination of hormonogenic acceptor Tyr2748, under conditions which permitted only limited iodination of Tyr2555 and Tyr2569, in low-iodine bovine thyroglobulin. The present study thereby provides: (1) a rationale for the preferential synthesis of T3 at the carboxy-terminal end of thyroglobulin, at low iodination level; (2) confirmation for the presence of an interspecifically conserved hormonogenic donor site in the carboxy-terminal domain of thyroglobulin; (3) solution for a previous uncertainty, concerning the precise location of such donor site in bovine thyroglobulin.« less

Different contributions of platelet-activating factor and nitric oxide in long-term potentiation of the rat medial vestibular nuclei.

PubMed

Pettorossi, V E; Grassi, S

2001-01-01

In rat brainstem slices, we investigated the differential role of nitric oxide (NO) and platelet-activating factor (PAF) in long-term potentiation (LTP) induced in the ventral portion of the medial vestibular nuclei (MVN) by high-frequency stimulation (HFS) of the primary vestibular afferents. The NO scavenger 2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide (carboxy-PTIO) and the PAF receptor antagonist ginkgolide B (BN-52021) were administered before and after induction of potentiation. The effect of carboxy-PTIO was to completely prevent LTP. By contrast, BN-52021 only reduced the amplitude of HFS potentiation, which could develop fully at the drug washout or decline to zero, becoming a short-term phenomenon, in the case of long-lasting PAF receptor block. Both drugs, when given after HFS, had no effect on the already established potentiation, but whilst BN-52021 showed an influence within 5 min of the LTP induction, carboxy-PTIO did not affect the response once HFS was delivered. Moreover, we showed that the NO donor, sodium nitroprusside, and methylcarbamyl PAF (mc-PAF) induced LTP which was associated with an increase in glutamate release as shown by reduction in the paired-pulse facilitation ratio. The mc-PAF LTP was prevented by the NO scavenger, while NO LTP was only reduced by BN-52021. We suggest that NO and PAF are implicated as retrograde messengers in two different phases of vestibular LTP: NO in the induction phase; and PAF in the full expression phase.

Nuclear translocation of glutathione S-transferase {pi} is mediated by a non-classical localization signal

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kawakatsu, Miho; Goto, Shinji, E-mail: sgoto@nagasaki-u.ac.jp; Yoshida, Takako

2011-08-12

Highlights: {yields} Nuclear translocation of GST{pi} is abrogated by the deletion of the last 16 amino acid residues in the carboxy-terminal region, indicating that residues 195-208 of GST{pi} are required for nuclear translocation. {yields} The lack of a contiguous stretch of positively charged amino acid residues within the carboxy-terminal region of GST{pi}, suggests that the nuclear translocation of GST{pi} is mediated by a non-classical nuclear localization signal. {yields} An in vitro transport assay shows that the nuclear translocation of GST{pi} is dependent on cytosolic factors and ATP. -- Abstract: Glutathione S-transferase {pi} (GST{pi}), a member of the GST family ofmore » multifunctional enzymes, is highly expressed in human placenta and involved in the protection of cellular components against electrophilic compounds or oxidative stress. We have recently found that GST{pi} is expressed in the cytoplasm, mitochondria, and nucleus in some cancer cells, and that the nuclear expression of GST{pi} appears to correlate with resistance to anti-cancer drugs. Although the mitochondrial targeting signal of GST{pi} was previously identified in the amino-terminal region, the mechanism of nuclear translocation remains completely unknown. In this study, we find that the region of GST{pi}195-208 is critical for nuclear translocation, which is mediated by a novel and non-classical nuclear localization signal. In addition, using an in vitro transport assay, we demonstrate that the nuclear translocation of GST{pi} depends on the cytosolic extract and ATP. Although further experiments are needed to understand in depth the precise mechanism of nuclear translocation of GST{pi}, our results may help to establish more efficient anti-cancer therapy, especially with respect to resistance to anti-cancer drugs.« less

Free and Glucuronide Whole Blood Cannabinoids' Pharmacokinetics after Controlled Smoked, Vaporized, and Oral Cannabis Administration in Frequent and Occasional Cannabis Users: Identification of Recent Cannabis Intake.

PubMed

Newmeyer, Matthew N; Swortwood, Madeleine J; Barnes, Allan J; Abulseoud, Osama A; Scheidweiler, Karl B; Huestis, Marilyn A

2016-12-01

There is increasing interest in markers of recent cannabis use because following frequent cannabis intake, Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may be detected in blood for up to 30 days. The minor cannabinoids cannabidiol, cannabinol (CBN), and THC-glucuronide were previously detected for ≤2.1 h in frequent and occasional smokers' blood after cannabis smoking. Cannabigerol (CBG), Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), and 11-nor-9-carboxy-THCV might also be recent use markers, but their blood pharmacokinetics have not been investigated. Additionally, while smoking is the most common administration route, vaporization and edibles are frequently used. We characterized blood pharmacokinetics of THC, its phase I and phase II glucuronide metabolites, and minor cannabinoids in occasional and frequent cannabis smokers for 54 (occasional) and 72 (frequent) hours after controlled smoked, vaporized, and oral cannabis administration. Few differences were observed between smoked and vaporized blood cannabinoid pharmacokinetics, while significantly greater 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC (THCCOOH) and THCCOOH-glucuronide concentrations occurred following oral cannabis. CBG and CBN were frequently identified after inhalation routes with short detection windows, but not detected following oral dosing. Implementation of a combined THC ≥5 μg/L plus THCCOOH/11-hydroxy-THC ratio <20 cutoff produced detection windows <8 h after all routes for frequent smokers; no occasional smoker was positive 1.5 h or 12 h following inhaled or oral cannabis, respectively. Vaporization and smoking provide comparable cannabinoid delivery. CBG and CBN are recent-use cannabis markers after cannabis inhalation, but their absence does not exclude recent use. Multiple, complimentary criteria should be implemented in conjunction with impairment observations to improve interpretation of cannabinoid tests. Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT02177513. © 2016 American Association for Clinical Chemistry.

High prevalence of morphometric vertebral deformities in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Heijckmann, Anna Caroline; Huijberts, Maya S P; Schoon, Erik J; Geusens, Piet; de Vries, Jolanda; Menheere, Paul P C A; van der Veer, Eveline; Wolffenbuttel, Bruce H R; Stockbrugger, Reinhold W; Dumitrescu, Bianca; Nieuwenhuijzen Kruseman, Arie C

2008-08-01

Earlier studies have documented that the prevalence of decreased bone mineral density (BMD) is elevated in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of vertebral deformities in inflammatory bowel disease patients and their relation with BMD and bone turnover. One hundred and nine patients with Crohn's disease (CD) and 72 with ulcerative colitis (UC) (age 44.5+/-14.2 years) were studied. BMD of the hip (by dual X-ray absorptiometry) was measured and a lateral single energy densitometry of the spine for assessment of vertebral deformities was performed. Serum markers of bone resorption (carboxy-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen) and formation (procollagen type I amino-terminal propeptide) were measured, and determinants of prevalent vertebral deformities were assessed using logistic regression analysis. Vertebral deformities were found in 25% of both CD and UC patients. Comparing patients with and without vertebral deformities, no significant difference was found between Z-scores and T-scores of BMD, or levels of serum carboxy-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen and serum procollagen type I amino-terminal propeptide. Using logistic regression analysis the only determinant of any morphometric vertebral deformity was sex. The presence of multiple vertebral deformities was associated with older age and glucocorticoid use. The prevalence of morphometric vertebral deformities is high in CD and UC. Male sex, but neither disease activity, bone turnover markers, clinical risk factors, nor BMD predicted their presence. The determinants for having more than one vertebral deformity were age and glucocorticoid use. This implies that in addition to screening for low BMD, morphometric assessment of vertebral deformities is warranted in CD and UC.

ß3 integrin modulates transforming growth factor beta induced (TGFBI) function and paclitaxel response in ovarian cancer cells.

PubMed

Tumbarello, David A; Temple, Jillian; Brenton, James D

2012-05-28

The extracellular matrix (ECM) has a key role in facilitating the progression of ovarian cancer and we have shown recently that the secreted ECM protein TGFBI modulates the response of ovarian cancer to paclitaxel-induced cell death. We have determined TGFBI signaling from the extracellular environment is preferential for the cell surface αvß3 integrin heterodimer, in contrast to periostin, a TGFBI paralogue, which signals primarily via a ß1 integrin-mediated pathway. We demonstrate that suppression of ß1 integrin expression, in ß3 integrin-expressing ovarian cancer cells, increases adhesion to rTGFBI. In addition, Syndecan-1 and -4 expression is dispensable for adhesion to rTGFBI and loss of Syndecan-1 cooperates with the loss of ß1 integrin to further enhance adhesion to rTGFBI. The RGD motif present in the carboxy-terminus of TGFBI is necessary, but not sufficient, for SKOV3 cell adhesion and is dispensable for adhesion of ovarian cancer cells lacking ß3 integrin expression. In contrast to TGFBI, the carboxy-terminus of periostin, lacking a RGD motif, is unable to support adhesion of ovarian cancer cells. Suppression of ß3 integrin in SKOV3 cells increases resistance to paclitaxel-induced cell death while suppression of ß1 integrin has no effect. Furthermore, suppression of TGFBI expression stimulates a paclitaxel resistant phenotype while suppression of fibronectin expression, which primarily signals through a ß1 integrin-mediated pathway, increases paclitaxel sensitivity. Therefore, different ECM components use distinct signaling mechanisms in ovarian cancer cells and in particular, TGFBI preferentially interacts through a ß3 integrin receptor mediated mechanism to regulate the response of cells to paclitaxel-induced cell death.

Rethinking Cysteine Protective Groups: S-Alkylsulfonyl-l-Cysteines for Chemoselective Disulfide Formation.

PubMed

Schäfer, Olga; Huesmann, David; Muhl, Christian; Barz, Matthias

2016-12-12

The ability to reversibly cross-link proteins and peptides grants the amino acid cysteine its unique role in nature as well as in peptide chemistry. We report a novel class of S-alkylsulfonyl-l-cysteines and N-carboxy anhydrides (NCA) thereof for peptide synthesis. The S-alkylsulfonyl group is stable against amines and thus enables its use under Fmoc chemistry conditions and the controlled polymerization of the corresponding NCAs yielding well-defined homo- as well as block co-polymers. Yet, thiols react immediately with the S-alkylsulfonyl group forming asymmetric disulfides. Therefore, we introduce the first reactive cysteine derivative for efficient and chemoselective disulfide formation in synthetic polypeptides, thus bypassing additional protective group cleavage steps. © 2016 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Rheological Properties of Graphene Oxide/Konjac Glucomannan Sol.

PubMed

Zhu, Wenkun; Duan, Tao; Hu, Zuowen

2018-05-01

We have demonstrated there is a significant intermolecular interaction between GO and KGM that results from hydrogen bonding and physical cross-linking by studying the rheological properties of a graphene oxide/konjac glucomannan (GO/KGM) solution. When the addition of GO was 5%, the storage modulus (G') and loss modulus (G″) were only improved by 0.25%. However, G' and G″ were improved by approximately 90% and 73.4%, respectively, when the GO content was increased to 7.5%. The moduli also displayed a relationship between the power function and concentration. Furthermore, the formation mechanism of GO/KGM was investigated by Raman, FT-IR, XPS and SEM. The results suggested that hydrogen bonding and physical crosslinking are generated from the abundant carboxy and hydroxyl groups of graphene oxide and the hydroxyl groups of konjac glucomannan.

Oxaliplatin Analogues with Carboxy Derivatives of Boldine with Enhanced Antioxidant Activity

PubMed Central

Mellado, Marco; Jara, Carlos; Astudillo, David; Villena, Joan; Reveco, Patricio G.; Thomet, Franz A.

2015-01-01

A new oxaliplatin analog [Pt(dach)(L5)] (1) was synthesized and characterized as a continuation of a study of the previously reported [Pt(dach)(L6)] (2), where dach = (1R,2R)-diaminocyclohexane, L5 = 3-carboxyboldine, and L6 = 3-carboxypredicentrine. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited a substantially enhanced antioxidant activity compared to oxaliplatin (130 and 30 times for 1 and 13 and 4 times for 2 using the DPPH and FRAP assays, resp.). In addition, 1 and 2 exhibited cytotoxic activity in the same range as oxaliplatin toward the two human tumor cell lines (MCF-7 and HT-29) studied and two to four times lower activity in the human colon nontumor cell line (CCD-841). Preadministration of L5 or L6 to the colon tumor (HT-29) and the colon nontumor (CCD-841) cell lines prior to oxaliplatin addition increased the viability of the nontumor cell line to a greater extent than that of the tumor cell line. PMID:25814916

Analysis of the primary structure of the long terminal repeat and the gag and pol genes of the human spumaretrovirus.

PubMed Central

Maurer, B; Bannert, H; Darai, G; Flügel, R M

1988-01-01

The nucleotide sequence of the human spumaretrovirus (HSRV) genome was determined. The 5' long terminal repeat region was analyzed by strong stop cDNA synthesis and S1 nuclease mapping. The length of the RU5 region was determined and found to be 346 nucleotides long. The 5' long terminal repeat is 1,123 base pairs long and is bound by an 18-base-pair primer-binding site complementary to the 3' end of mammalian lysine-1,2-specific tRNA. Open reading frames for gag and pol genes were identified. Surprisingly, the HSRV gag protein does not contain the cysteine motif of the nucleic acid-binding proteins found in and typical of all other retroviral gag proteins; instead the HSRV gag gene encodes a strongly basic protein reminiscent of those of hepatitis B virus and retrotransposons. The carboxy-terminal part of the HSRV gag gene products encodes a protease domain. The pol gene overlaps the gag gene and is postulated to be synthesized as a gag/pol precursor via translational frameshifting analogous to that of Rous sarcoma virus, with 7 nucleotides immediately upstream of the termination codons of gag conserved between the two viral genomes. The HSRV pol gene is 2,730 nucleotides long, and its deduced protein sequence is readily subdivided into three well-conserved domains, the reverse transcriptase, the RNase H, and the integrase. Although the degree of homology of the HSRV reverse transcriptase domain is highest to that of murine leukemia virus, the HSRV genomic organization is more similar to that of human and simian immunodeficiency viruses. The data justify classifying the spumaretroviruses as a third subfamily of Retroviridae. Images PMID:2451755

The position of an arginine residue influences substrate affinity and K+ coupling in the human glutamate transporter, EAAT1.

PubMed

Ryan, Renae M; Kortt, Nicholas C; Sirivanta, Tan; Vandenberg, Robert J

2010-07-01

Glutamate is the predominant excitatory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system and extracellular glutamate levels are controlled by a family of transporters known as excitatory amino acid transporters (EAATs). The EAATs transport glutamate and aspartate with similar micromolar affinities and this transport is coupled to the movement of Na(+), K(+), and H(+). The crystal structure of a prokaryotic homologue of the EAATs, aspartate transporter from Pyrococcus horokoshii (Glt(Ph)), has yielded important insights into the architecture of this transporter family. Glt(Ph) is a Na(+)-dependent transporter that has significantly higher affinity for aspartate over glutamate and is not coupled to H(+) or K(+). The highly conserved carboxy-terminal domains of the EAATs and Glt(Ph) contain the substrate and ion binding sites, however, there are a couple of striking differences in this region that we have investigated to better understand the transport mechanism. An arginine residue is in close proximity to the substrate binding site of both Glt(Ph) and the EAATs, but is located in transmembrane domain (TM) 8 in the EAATs and hairpin loop 1 (HP1) of Glt(Ph). Here we report that the position of this arginine residue can explain some of the functional differences observed between the EAATs and Glt(Ph). Moving the arginine residue from TM8 to HP1 in EAAT1 results in a transporter that has significantly increased affinity for both glutamate and aspartate and is K(+) independent. Conversely, moving the arginine residue from HP1 to TM8 in Glt(Ph) results in a transporter that has reduced affinity for aspartate.

The alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) third domain: a search for AFP interaction sites of cell cycle proteins.

PubMed

Mizejewski, G J

2016-09-01

The carboxy-terminal third domain of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP-3D) is known to harbor binding and/or interaction sites for hydrophobic ligands, receptors, and binding proteins. Such reports have established that AFP-3D consists of amino acid (AA) sequence stretches on the AFP polypeptide that engages in protein-to-protein interactions with various ligands and receptors. Using a computer software program specifically designed for such interactions, the present report identified AA sequence fragments on AFP-3D that could potentially interact with a variety of cell cycle proteins. The cell cycle proteins identified were (1) cyclins, (2) cyclin-dependent kinases, (3) cell cycle-associated proteins (inhibitors, checkpoints, initiators), and (4) ubiquitin ligases. Following detection of the AFP-3D to cell cycle protein interaction sites, the computer-derived AFP localization AA sequences were compared and aligned with previously reported hydrophobic ligand and receptor interaction sites on AFP-3D. A literature survey of the association of cell cycle proteins with AFP showed both positive relationships and correlations. Previous reports of experimental AFP-derived peptides effects on various cell cycle proteins served to confirm and verify the present computer cell cycle protein identifications. Cell cycle protein interactions with AFP-CD peptides have been reported in cultured MCF-7 breast cancer cells subjected to mRNA microarray analysis. After 7 days in culture with MCF-7 cells, the AFP-derived peptides were shown to downregulate cyclin E, SKP2, checkpoint suppressors, cyclin-dependent kinases, and ubiquitin ligases that modulate cyclin E/CdK2 transition from the G1 to the S-phase of the cell cycle. Thus, the experimental data on AFP-CD interaction with cell cycle proteins were consistent with the "in silico" findings.

Impact of Wisteria floribunda Agglutinin-Positive Mac-2-Binding Protein in Patients with Hepatitis C Virus-Related Compensated Liver Cirrhosis.

PubMed

Hasegawa, Kunihiro; Takata, Ryo; Nishikawa, Hiroki; Enomoto, Hirayuki; Ishii, Akio; Iwata, Yoshinori; Miyamoto, Yuho; Ishii, Noriko; Yuri, Yukihisa; Nakano, Chikage; Nishimura, Takashi; Yoh, Kazunori; Aizawa, Nobuhiro; Sakai, Yoshiyuki; Ikeda, Naoto; Takashima, Tomoyuki; Iijima, Hiroko; Nishiguchi, Shuhei

2016-09-12

We aimed to examine the effect of Wisteria floribunda agglutinin-positive Mac-2-binding protein (WFA⁺-M2BP) level on survival comparing with other laboratory liver fibrosis markers in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related compensated liver cirrhosis (LC) (n = 165). For assessing prognostic performance of continuous fibrosis markers, we adapted time-dependent receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves for clinical outcome. In time-dependent ROC analysis, annual area under the ROCs (AUROCs) were plotted. We also calculated the total sum of AUROCs in all time-points (TAAT score) in each fibrosis marker. WFA⁺-M2BP value ranged from 0.66 cutoff index (COI) to 19.95 COI (median value, 5.29 COI). Using ROC analysis for survival, the optimal cutoff point for WFA⁺-M2BP was 6.15 COI (AUROC = 0.79348, sensitivity = 80.0%, specificity = 74.78%). The cumulative five-year survival rate in patients with WFA⁺-M2BP ≥ 6.15 COI (n = 69) was 43.99%, while that in patients with WFA⁺-M2BP < 6.15 COI (n = 96) was 88.40% (p < 0.0001). In the multivariate analysis, absence of hepatocellular carcinoma (p = 0.0008), WFA⁺-M2BP < 6.15 COI (p = 0.0132), achievement of sustained virological response (p < 0.0001) and des-γ-carboxy prothrombin < 41 mAU/mL (p = 0.0018) were significant favorable predictors linked to survival. In time-dependent ROC analysis in all cases, WFA⁺-M2BP had the highest TAAT score among liver fibrosis markers. In conclusion, WFA⁺-M2BP can be a useful predictor in HCV-related compensated LC.

Radioligand Therapy of Prostate Cancer with a Long-Lasting Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen Targeting Agent 90Y-DOTA-EB-MCG.

PubMed

Wang, Zhantong; Jacobson, Orit; Tian, Rui; Mease, Ronnie C; Kiesewetter, Dale O; Niu, Gang; Pomper, Martin G; Chen, Xiaoyuan

2018-06-15

Several radioligands targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) have been clinically introduced as a new class of radiotheranostics for the treatment of prostate cancer. Among them, ((( R)-1-carboxy-2-mcercaptoethyl)carbamoyl)-l-glutamic acid (MCG) has been successfully labeled with radioisotopes for prostate cancer imaging. The aim of this study is to conjugate MCG with an albumin binding moiety to further improve the in vivo pharmacokinetics. MCG was conjugated with an Evans blue (EB) derivative for albumin binding and a DOTA chelator. PSMA positive (PC3-PIP) and PSMA negative (PC3) cells were used for both in vitro and in vivo studies. Longitudinal PET imaging was performed at 1, 4, 24, and 48 h post-injection to evaluate the biodistribution and tumor uptake of 86 Y-DOTA-EB-MCG. DOTA-EB-MCG was also labeled with 90 Y for radionuclide therapy. Besides tumor growth measurement, tumor response to escalating therapeutic doses were also evaluated by immunohistochemistry and fluorescence microscopy. Based on quantification from 86 Y-DOTA-EB-MCG PET images, the tracer uptake in PC3-PIP tumors increased from 22.33 ± 2.39%ID/g at 1 h post-injection (p.i.), to the peak of 40.40 ± 4.79%ID/g at 24 h p.i. Administration of 7.4 MBq of 90 Y-DOTA-EB-MCG resulted in significant regression of tumor growth in PSMA positive xenografts. No apparent toxicity or body weight loss was observed in all treated mice. Modification of MCG with an Evans blue derivative resulted in a highly efficient prostate cancer targeting agent (EB-MCG), which showed great potential in prostate cancer treatment after being labeled with therapeutic radioisotopes.

Two-ligand priming mechanism for potentiated phosphoinositide synthesis is an evolutionarily conserved feature of Sec14-like phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidylcholine exchange proteins.

PubMed

Huang, Jin; Ghosh, Ratna; Tripathi, Ashutosh; Lönnfors, Max; Somerharju, Pentti; Bankaitis, Vytas A

2016-07-15

Lipid signaling, particularly phosphoinositide signaling, plays a key role in regulating the extreme polarized membrane growth that drives root hair development in plants. The Arabidopsis AtSFH1 gene encodes a two-domain protein with an amino-terminal Sec14-like phosphatidylinositol transfer protein (PITP) domain linked to a carboxy-terminal nodulin domain. AtSfh1 is critical for promoting the spatially highly organized phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate signaling program required for establishment and maintenance of polarized root hair growth. Here we demonstrate that, like the yeast Sec14, the AtSfh1 PITP domain requires both its phosphatidylinositol (PtdIns)- and phosphatidylcholine (PtdCho)-binding properties to stimulate PtdIns-4-phosphate [PtdIns(4)P] synthesis. Moreover, we show that both phospholipid-binding activities are essential for AtSfh1 activity in supporting polarized root hair growth. Finally, we report genetic and biochemical evidence that the two-ligand mechanism for potentiation of PtdIns 4-OH kinase activity is a broadly conserved feature of plant Sec14-nodulin proteins, and that this strategy appeared only late in plant evolution. Taken together, the data indicate that the PtdIns/PtdCho-exchange mechanism for stimulated PtdIns(4)P synthesis either arose independently during evolution in yeast and in higher plants, or a suitable genetic module was introduced to higher plants from a fungal source and subsequently exploited by them. © 2016 Huang, Ghosh, et al. This article is distributed by The American Society for Cell Biology under license from the author(s). Two months after publication it is available to the public under an Attribution–Noncommercial–Share Alike 3.0 Unported Creative Commons License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0).

The alpha1-fetoprotein locus is activated by a nuclear receptor of the Drosophila FTZ-F1 family.

PubMed

Galarneau, L; Paré, J F; Allard, D; Hamel, D; Levesque, L; Tugwood, J D; Green, S; Bélanger, L

1996-07-01

The alpha1-fetoprotein (AFP) gene is located between the albumin and alpha-albumin genes and is activated by transcription factor FTF (fetoprotein transcription factor), presumed to transduce early developmental signals to the albumin gene cluster. We have identified FTF as an orphan nuclear receptor of the Drosophila FTZ-F1 family. FTF recognizes the DNA sequence 5'-TCAAGGTCA-3', the canonical recognition motif for FTZ-F1 receptors. cDNA sequence homologies indicate that rat FTF is the ortholog of mouse LRH-1 and Xenopus xFF1rA. Rodent FTF is encoded by a single-copy gene, related to the gene encoding steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1). The 5.2-kb FTF transcript is translated from several in-frame initiator codons into FTF isoforms (54 to 64 kDa) which appear to bind DNA as monomers, with no need for a specific ligand, similar KdS (approximately equal 3 x 10(-10) M), and similar transcriptional effects. FTF activates the AFP promoter without the use of an amino-terminal activation domain; carboxy-terminus-truncated FTF exerts strong dominant negative effects. In the AFP promoter, FTF recruits an accessory trans-activator which imparts glucocorticoid reactivity upon the AFP gene. FTF binding sites are found in the promoters of other liver-expressed genes, some encoding liver transcription factors; FTF, liver alpha1-antitrypsin promoter factor LFB2, and HNF-3beta promoter factor UF2-H3beta are probably the same factor. FTF is also abundantly expressed in the pancreas and may exert differentiation functions in endodermal sublineages, similar to SF-1 in steroidogenic tissues. HepG2 hepatoma cells seem to express a mutated form of FTF.

Soluble γ-secretase modulators selectively inhibit the production of the 42-amino acid amyloid β peptide variant and augment the production of multiple carboxy-truncated amyloid β species.

PubMed

Wagner, Steven L; Zhang, Can; Cheng, Soan; Nguyen, Phuong; Zhang, Xulun; Rynearson, Kevin D; Wang, Rong; Li, Yueming; Sisodia, Sangram S; Mobley, William C; Tanzi, Rudolph E

2014-02-04

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized pathologically by an abundance of extracellular neuritic plaques composed primarily of the 42-amino acid amyloid β peptide variant (Aβ42). In the majority of familial AD (FAD) cases, e.g., those harboring mutations in presenilin 1 (PS1), there is a relative increase in the levels of Aβ42 compared to the levels of Aβ40. We previously reported the characterization of a series of aminothiazole-bridged aromates termed aryl aminothiazole γ-secretase modulators or AGSMs [Kounnas, M. Z., et al. (2010) Neuron 67, 769-780] and showed their potential for use in the treatment of FAD [Wagner, S. L., et al. (2012) Arch. Neurol. 69, 1255-1258]. Here we describe a series of GSMs with physicochemical properties improved compared to those of AGSMs. Specific heterocycle replacements of the phenyl rings in AGSMs provided potent molecules with improved aqueous solubilities. A number of these soluble γ-secretase modulators (SGSMs) potently lowered Aβ42 levels without inhibiting proteolysis of Notch or causing accumulation of amyloid precursor protein carboxy-terminal fragments, even at concentrations approximately 1000-fold greater than their IC50 values for reducing Aβ42 levels. The effects of one potent SGSM on Aβ peptide production were verified by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry, showing enhanced production of a number of carboxy-truncated Aβ species. This SGSM also inhibited Aβ42 peptide production in a highly purified reconstituted γ-secretase in vitro assay system and retained the ability to modulate γ-secretase-mediated proteolysis in a stably transfected cell culture model overexpressing a human PS1 mutation validating the potential for use in FAD.

A carboxy-terminal fragment of protein mu 1/mu 1C is present in infectious subvirion particles of mammalian reoviruses and is proposed to have a role in penetration.

PubMed Central

Nibert, M L; Fields, B N

1992-01-01

Penetration of a cell membrane as an early event in infection of cells by mammalian reoviruses appears to require a particular type of viral particle, the infectious subvirion particle (ISVP), which is generated from an intact virion by proteolytic cleavage of the outer capsid proteins sigma 3 and mu 1/mu 1C. Characterizations of the structural components and properties of ISVPs are thus relevant to attempts to understand the mechanism of penetration by reoviruses. In this study, a novel, approximately 13-kDa carboxy-terminal fragment (given the name phi) was found to be generated from protein mu 1/mu 1C during in vitro treatments of virions with trypsin or chymotrypsin to yield ISVPs. With trypsin treatment, both the carboxy-terminal fragment phi and the amino-terminal fragment mu 1 delta/delta were shown to be generated and to remain attached to ISVPs in stoichiometric quantities. Sites of protease cleavage were identified in the deduced amino acid sequence of mu 1 by determining the amino-terminal sequences of phi proteins: trypsin cleaves between arginine 584 and isoleucine 585, and chymotrypsin cleaves between tyrosine 581 and glycine 582. Findings in this study indicate that sequences in the phi portion of mu 1/mu 1C may participate in the unique functions attributed to ISVPs. Notably, the delta-phi cleavage junction was predicted to be flanked by a pair of long amphipathic alpha-helices. These amphipathic alpha-helices, together with the myristoyl group at the extreme amino terminus of mu 1/mu 1N, are proposed to interact directly with the lipid bilayer of a cell membrane during penetration by mammalian reoviruses. Images PMID:1328674

In vitro studies to show sequestration of matrix metalloproteinases by silver-containing wound care products.

PubMed

Walker, Michael; Bowler, Philip G; Cochrane, Christine A

2007-09-01

Excess or "uncontrolled" proteinase activity in the wound bed has been implicated as one factor that may delay or compromise wound healing. One proteinase group--matrix metalloproteinases--includes collagenases, elastase, and gelatinases and can be endogenous (cell) or exogenous (bacterial) in origin. A study was conducted to assess the ability of five silver-containing wound care products to reduce a known matrix metalloproteinase supernatant concentration in vitro. Four silver-containing wound dressings (a carboxy-methyl cellulose, a nanocrystalline, a hydro-alginate, and a collagen/oxidized regenerated cellulose composite dressing), along with a 0.5% aqueous silver nitrate [w/v] solution and controls for matrix metalloproteinase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 sourced from ex vivo dermal tissue and blood monocytes, respectively, were used. Extracts were separated and purified using gelatine-Sepharose column chromatography and dialysis and polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic zymography was used to analyze specific matrix metalloproteinase activity. All dressings and the solution were shown to sequester both matrix metalloproteinases. The silver-containing carboxy-methyl cellulose dressing showed significantly greater sequestration for matrix metalloproteinase-2 at 6 and 24 hours (P< 0.001) compared to the other treatments. For matrix metalloproteinase-9, both the carboxy-methyl cellulose dressing and the oxidized regenerated cellulose dressing achieved significant sequestration when compared to the other treatments at 24 hours (P <0.001), which was maintained to 48 hours (P < 0.001). Results from this study show that silver-containing dressings are effective in sequestering matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 and that this can be achieved without a sacrificial protein (eg, collagen). Although the varying ability of wound dressings to sequester matrix metalloproteinases has been shown in vitro, further in vivo evidence is required to confirm these findings.

Phosphorylation status determines the opposing functions of Smad2/Smad3 as STAT3 cofactors in TH17 differentiation

PubMed Central

Yoon, Jeong-Hwan; Sudo, Katsuko; Kuroda, Masahiko; Kato, Mitsuyasu; Lee, In-Kyu; Han, Jin Soo; Nakae, Susumu; Imamura, Takeshi; Kim, Juryun; Ju, Ji Hyeon; Kim, Dae-Kee; Matsuzaki, Koichi; Weinstein, Michael; Matsumoto, Isao; Sumida, Takayuki; Mamura, Mizuko

2015-01-01

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are the pivotal cytokines to induce IL-17-producing CD4+ T helper cells (TH17); yet their signalling network remains largely unknown. Here we show that the highly homologous TGF-β receptor-regulated Smads (R-Smads): Smad2 and Smad3 oppositely modify STAT3-induced transcription of IL-17A and retinoic acid receptor-related orphan nuclear receptor, RORγt encoded by Rorc, by acting as a co-activator and co-repressor of STAT3, respectively. Smad2 linker phosphorylated by extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) at the serine 255 residue interacts with STAT3 and p300 to transactivate, whereas carboxy-terminal unphosphorylated Smad3 interacts with STAT3 and protein inhibitor of activated STAT3 (PIAS3) to repress the Rorc and Il17a genes. Our work uncovers carboxy-terminal phosphorylation-independent noncanonical R-Smad–STAT3 signalling network in TH17 differentiation. PMID:26194464

Phosphorylation status determines the opposing functions of Smad2/Smad3 as STAT3 cofactors in TH17 differentiation.

PubMed

Yoon, Jeong-Hwan; Sudo, Katsuko; Kuroda, Masahiko; Kato, Mitsuyasu; Lee, In-Kyu; Han, Jin Soo; Nakae, Susumu; Imamura, Takeshi; Kim, Juryun; Ju, Ji Hyeon; Kim, Dae-Kee; Matsuzaki, Koichi; Weinstein, Michael; Matsumoto, Isao; Sumida, Takayuki; Mamura, Mizuko

2015-07-21

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are the pivotal cytokines to induce IL-17-producing CD4(+) T helper cells (TH17); yet their signalling network remains largely unknown. Here we show that the highly homologous TGF-β receptor-regulated Smads (R-Smads): Smad2 and Smad3 oppositely modify STAT3-induced transcription of IL-17A and retinoic acid receptor-related orphan nuclear receptor, RORγt encoded by Rorc, by acting as a co-activator and co-repressor of STAT3, respectively. Smad2 linker phosphorylated by extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) at the serine 255 residue interacts with STAT3 and p300 to transactivate, whereas carboxy-terminal unphosphorylated Smad3 interacts with STAT3 and protein inhibitor of activated STAT3 (PIAS3) to repress the Rorc and Il17a genes. Our work uncovers carboxy-terminal phosphorylation-independent noncanonical R-Smad-STAT3 signalling network in TH17 differentiation.

Studies on the growth, structural, spectral and third-order nonlinear optical properties of ammonium 3-carboxy-4-hydroxy benzenesulfonate monohydrate single crystal.

PubMed

Silambarasan, A; Krishna Kumar, M; Thirunavukkarasu, A; Mohan Kumar, R; Umarani, P R

2015-01-25

An organic nonlinear optical bulk single crystal, Ammonium 3-carboxy-4-hydroxy benzenesulfonate monohydrate (ACHBS) was successfully grown by solution growth technique. Single crystal X-ray diffraction study confirms that, the grown crystal belongs to P21/c space group. Powder X-ray diffraction and high resolution X-ray diffraction analyses revealed the crystallinity of the grown crystal. Infrared spectral analysis showed the vibrational behavior of chemical bonds and its functional groups. The thermal stability and decomposition stages of the grown crystal were studied by TG-DTA analysis. UV-Visible transmittance studies showed the transparency region and cut-off wavelength of the grown crystal. The third-order nonlinear optical susceptibility of the grown crystal was estimated by Z-scan technique using He-Ne laser source. The mechanical property of the grown crystal was studied by using Vicker's microhardness test. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Synthesis of a novel 'smart' bifunctional chelating agent 1-(2-[beta,D-galactopyranosyloxy]ethyl)-7-(1-carboxy-3-[4-aminophenyl]propyl)-4,10-bis(carboxymethyl)-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane (Gal-PA-DO3A-NH2) and its Gd(III) complex.

PubMed

Wardle, Nick J; Herlihy, Amy H; So, Po-Wah; Bell, Jimmy D; Bligh, S W Annie

2007-07-15

A new synthetic pathway to 1-(2-[beta,D-galactopyranosyloxy]ethyl)-7-(1-carboxy-3-[4-aminophenyl]propyl)-4,10-bis(carboxymethyl)-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane (Gal-PA-DO3A-NH2) and 1-(2-[beta,D-galactopyranosyloxy]ethyl)-4,7,10-tris(carboxymethyl)-1, 4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane (Gal-DO3A) chelating agents was developed involving full hydroxyl- and carboxyl-group protection in precursors to product. Two sequences of cyclen-N-functionalisation were subsequently investigated, one successfully, towards synthesis of the novel 'smart' bifunctional Gal-PA-DO3A-NH2 chelate. The longitudinal proton relaxivities of the neutral [Gd-(Gal-PA-DO3A-NH2)] and [Gd-(Gal-DO3A)] complexes were increased by 28% and 37% in the presence of beta-galactosidase, respectively.

Fabrication of zinc-dicarboxylate- and zinc-pyrazolate-carboxylate-framework thin films through vapour-solid deposition.

PubMed

Medishetty, Raghavender; Zhang, Zongji; Sadlo, Alexander; Cwik, Stefan; Peeters, Daniel; Henke, Sebastian; Mangayarkarasi, Nagarathinam; Devi, Anjana

2018-05-17

Fabrication of three-dimensional metal-organic framework (MOF) thin films has been investigated for the first time through the conversion of a ZnO layer via a pure vapour-solid deposition reaction at ambient pressure. The fabrication of MOF thin films with a dicarboxylate linker, (DMA)2[Zn3(bdc)4] (1) (bdc = 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate), and a carboxy-pyrazolate linker, [Zn4O(dmcapz)6] (2) (dmcapz = 3,5-dimethyl-4-carboxypyrazole), involves the deposition of the linker and/or the preparation of a composite film preliminarily and its subsequent conversion into a MOF film using closed cell thermal treatment. Furthermore, it was possible to isolate thin films with a MOF-5 isotype structure grown along the [110] direction, using a carboxy-pyrazolate linker. This was achieved just by the direct reaction of the ZnO film and the organic linker vapors, employing a simple route that demonstrates the feasibility of MOF thin film fabrication using inexpensive routes at ambient pressure.

Synthesis, growth, structure and nonlinear optical properties of a semiorganic 2-carboxy pyridinium dihydrogen phosphate single crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nagapandiselvi, P.; Baby, C.; Gopalakrishnan, R.

2015-09-01

A new semiorganic compound namely, 2-carboxy pyridinium dihydrogen phosphate (2CPDP) was synthesised and grown as single crystals by slow evaporation solution growth technique. Single crystal XRD showed that 2CPDP belongs to monoclinic crystal system with space group P21/n. The molecular structure was further confirmed by modern spectroscopic techniques like FT-NMR (1H, 13C &31P), FT-IR, UV-Vis-NIR and Fluorescence. The UV-Vis-NIR analysis revealed suitability of the crystal for nonlinear optical applications. The photo active nature of the material is established from fluorescence studies. TG-DSC analysis showed that 2CPDP was thermally stable up to 170 °C. The dependence of dielectric properties on frequency and temperature were also studied. Nonlinear optical absorption determined from open aperture Z-Scan analysis by employing picosecond Nd-YAG laser, revealed that 2CPDP can serve as a promising candidate for optical limiting applications.

Investigation of polymer electrolyte membrane chemical degradation and degradation mitigation using in situ fluorescence spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Prabhakaran, Venkateshkumar; Arges, Christopher G.; Ramani, Vijay

2012-01-01

A fluorescent molecular probe, 6-carboxy fluorescein, was used in conjunction with in situ fluorescence spectroscopy to facilitate real-time monitoring of degradation inducing reactive oxygen species within the polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) of an operating PEM fuel cell. The key requirements of suitable molecular probes for in situ monitoring of ROS are presented. The utility of using free radical scavengers such as CeO2 nanoparticles to mitigate reactive oxygen species induced PEM degradation was demonstrated. The addition of CeO2 to uncatalyzed membranes resulted in close to 100% capture of ROS generated in situ within the PEM for a period of about 7 h and the incorporation of CeO2 into the catalyzed membrane provided an eightfold reduction in ROS generation rate. PMID:22219367

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

French, Jarrod B.; Ealick, Steven E.

The stereospecific oxidative degradation of uric acid to (S)-allantoin has recently been demonstrated to proceed via two unstable intermediates and requires three separate enzymatic reactions. The second step of this reaction, the conversion of 5-hydroxyisourate (HIU) to 2-oxo-4-hydroxy-4-carboxy-5-ureidoimidazoline, is catalyzed by HIU hydrolase (HIUH). The high-resolution crystal structure of HIUH from the opportunistic pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae (KpHIUH) has been determined. KpHIUH is a homotetrameric protein that, based on sequence and structural similarity, belongs to the transthyretin-related protein family. In addition, the steady-state kinetic parameters for this enzyme and four active-site mutants have been measured. These data provide valuable insight intomore » the functional roles of the active-site residues. Based upon the structural and kinetic data, a mechanism is proposed for the KpHIUH-catalyzed reaction.« less

Unraveling the active hypoglycemic agent trigonelline in Balanites aegyptiaca date fruit using metabolite fingerprinting by NMR.

PubMed

Farag, Mohamed A; Porzel, Andrea; Wessjohann, Ludger A

2015-11-10

Trigonelline (3-carboxy-1-methyl pyridinium) was identified as a relevant bioactivity and taste imparting component in Balanites aegyptiaca fruit, using (1)H NMR of crude extracts without any fractionation or isolation step. The structural integrity of trigonelline was established within the extract matrix via(1)H NMR, (1)H-(1)H COSY, HMQC and HMBC and by comparison with authentic standard. A quantitative (1)H NMR method (qHNMR) was used to determine trigonelline concentrations in the peel and pulp of B. aegyptiaca fruit of 8 and 13mgg(-1), respectively. Trigonelline so far has not been reported from B. aegyptiaca or its genus as it easily escapes LC-MS based detection. Its discovery provides novel insight into the balanite fruits antidiabetic properties as the compound is known for a pronounced hypoglycemic effect. In addition, it is likely to impart the perceptible bitter taste portion to balanites sweet bitter taste. UPLC-MS of the crude extract additionally revealed the fruit flavonoid pattern showing quercetin/isorhamnetin flavonol conjugates in addition to epicatechin, the latter being present at much lower levels. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Physico-chemical characterization of a cellulosic fraction from sugar beet pulp

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The residue of sugar beet pulp from which pectin and alkaline soluble polysaccharides have been removed by microwave assisted extraction (MAE) or conventional heat was treated with sodium monochloroacetate under alkaline pH to convert the residual cellulose present to carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC)....

21 CFR 182.1745 - Sodium carboxymethylcellu-lose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Sodium carboxymethylcellu-lose. 182.1745 Section... (CONTINUED) SUBSTANCES GENERALLY RECOGNIZED AS SAFE Multiple Purpose GRAS Food Substances § 182.1745 Sodium carboxymethylcellu-lose. (a) Product. Sodium carboxy-methylcellulose is the sodium salt of carboxymethylcellulose not...

76 FR 36109 - Certain New Chemicals; Receipt and Status Information

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-21

...-, dodecyl ester, telomer with methyl 2-methyl- 2-propenoate, tridecyl 2- methyl-2- propenoate, 3... (retard) n6-bis (3- set times in carboxy-1- calcium sulfate oxopropyl)-, based binders sodium salt such as..., hydroxyalkyl methacrylates, epoxypropyl acrylates and polyalkene glycol hydrogen sulfate, alkyloxyalkyl...

DEVELOPMENT OF A CLASS-SPECIFIC IMMUNOASSAY FOR THE TYPE I PYRETHROID INSECTICIDES. (R825433)

EPA Science Inventory

A general enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was developed for the type I pyrethroid insecticides, such as permethrin, phenothrin, resmethrin and bioresmethrin. Polyclonal antibodies were generated by immunizing with a permethrin derivative, 2,2-dimethyl-3-(5′-carboxy-pe...

Elastomeric gradients: a hedge against stress concentration in marine holdfasts?

PubMed Central

Waite, J Herbert; Vaccaro, Eleonora; Sun, Chengjun; Lucas, Jared M

2002-01-01

The byssal threads of marine mussels are elastomeric fibres with a great capacity for absorbing and dissipating energy. Up to 70% of the total absorbed energy can be dissipated in the byssus. Because byssal threads attach the mussel to hard inert surfaces in its habitat, they must combine the need to be good shock absorbers with appropriate matching of Young's modulus between living tissue and a hard sub-stratum such as stone - stiffnesses that can differ by five orders of magnitude. Recent data suggest that improved modulus matching and decreased stress concentration between different portions of the byssus is achieved by the use of protein gradients. Protein gradients in byssal threads are constructed using natural macromolecular chimeras having a central collagenous domain, variable flanking modules and histidine-rich amino and carboxy termini. Stiff silk-like flanking modules prevail distally, while at the animal end, rubbery modules resembling elastin predominate. In between the two thread ends there is a mix of both module types. The histidine-rich termini provide metal binding/cross-linking sites, while collagen domains may confer self-assembly on all parts of the structure. A graded axial distribution of flanking modules is expected to moderate stress concentration in joined materials having disparate moduli. PMID:11911771

Novel class of potential therapeutics that target ricin retrograde translocation.

PubMed

Redmann, Veronika; Gardner, Thomas; Lau, Zerlina; Morohashi, Keita; Felsenfeld, Dan; Tortorella, Domenico

2013-12-23

Ricin toxin, an A-B toxin from Ricinus communis, induces cell death through the inhibition of protein synthesis. The toxin binds to the cell surface via its B chain (RTB) followed by its retrograde trafficking through intracellular compartments to the ER where the A chain (RTA) is transported across the membrane and into the cytosol. Ricin A chain is transported across the ER membrane utilizing cellular proteins involved in the disposal of aberrant ER proteins by a process referred to as retrograde translocation. Given the current lack of therapeutics against ricin intoxication, we developed a high-content screen using an enzymatically attenuated RTA chimera engineered with a carboxy-terminal enhanced green fluorescent protein (RTA(E177Q)egfp) to identify compounds that target RTA retrograde translocation. Stabilizing RTA(E177Q)egfp through the inclusion of proteasome inhibitor produced fluorescent peri-nuclear granules. Quantitative analysis of the fluorescent granules provided the basis to discover compounds from a small chemical library (2080 compounds) with known bioactive properties. Strikingly, the screen found compounds that stabilized RTA molecules within the cell and several compounds limited the ability of wild type RTA to suppress protein synthesis. Collectively, a robust high-content screen was developed to discover novel compounds that stabilize intracellular ricin and limit ricin intoxication.

Fusion of Escherichia coli heat-stable enterotoxin and heat-labile enterotoxin B subunit.

PubMed

Guzman-Verduzco, L M; Kupersztoch, Y M

1987-11-01

The 3' terminus of the DNA coding for the extracellular Escherichia coli heat-stable enterotoxin (ST) devoid of transcription and translation stop signals was fused to the 5' terminus of the DNA coding for the periplasmic B subunit of the heat-labile enterotoxin (LTB) deleted of ribosomal binding sites and leader peptide. By RNA-DNA hybridization analysis, it was shown that the fused DNA was transcribed in vivo into an RNA species in close agreement with the expected molecular weight inferred from the nucleotide sequence. The translation products of the fused DNA resulted in a hybrid molecule recognized in Western blots (immunoblots) with antibodies directed against the heat-labile moiety. Anti-LTB antibodies coupled to a solid support bound ST and LTB simultaneously when incubated with ST-LTB cellular extracts. By [35S]cysteine pulse-chase experiments, it was shown that the fused ST-LTB polypeptide was converted from a precursor with an equivalent electrophoretic mobility of 20,800 daltons to an approximately 18,500-dalton species, which accumulated within the cell. The data suggest that wild-type ST undergoes at least two processing steps during its export to the culture supernatant. Blocking the natural carboxy terminus of ST inhibited the second proteolytic step and extracellular delivery of the hybrid molecule.

Substrate specificity of the cdk-activating kinase (CAK) is altered upon association with TFIIH.

PubMed Central

Rossignol, M; Kolb-Cheynel, I; Egly, J M

1997-01-01

The transcription/DNA repair factor TFIIH consists of nine subunits, several exhibiting known functions: helicase/ATPase, kinase activity and DNA binding. Three subunits of TFIIH, cdk7, cyclin H and MAT1, form a ternary complex, cdk-activating kinase (CAK), found either on its own or as part of TFIIH. In the present work, we demonstrate that purified human CAK complex (free CAK) and recombinant CAK (rCAK) produced in insect cells exhibit a strong preference for the cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (cdk2) over a ctd oligopeptide substrate (which mimics the carboxy-terminal domain of the RNA polymerase II). In contrast, TFIIH preferentially phosphorylates the ctd as well as TFIIE alpha, but not cdk2. TFIIH was resolved into four subcomplexes: the kinase complex composed of cdk7, cyclin H and MAT1; the core TFIIH which contains XPB, p62, p52, p44 and p34; and two other subcomplexes in which XPD is found associated with either the kinase complex or with the core TFIIH. Using these fractions, we demonstrate that TFIIH lacking the CAK subcomplex completely recovers its transcriptional activity in the presence of free CAK. Furthermore, studies examining the interactions between TFIIH subunits provide evidence that CAK is integrated within TFIIH via XPB and XPD. PMID:9130708

Over-Expression of Rififylin, a New RING Finger and FYVE-like Domain-containing Protein, Inhibits Recycling from the Endocytic Recycling Compartment

PubMed Central

Coumailleau, Franck; Das, Vincent; Alcover, Andres; Raposo, Graça; Vandormael-Pournin, Sandrine; Le Bras, Stéphanie; Baldacci, Patricia; Dautry-Varsat, Alice; Babinet, Charles; Cohen-Tannoudji, Michel

2004-01-01

Endocytosed membrane components are recycled to the cell surface either directly from early/sorting endosomes or after going through the endocytic recycling compartment (ERC). Studying recycling mechanisms is difficult, in part due to the fact that specific tools to inhibit this process are scarce. In this study, we have characterized a novel widely expressed protein, named Rififylin (Rffl) for RING Finger and FYVE-like domain-containing protein, that, when overexpressed in HeLa cells, induced the condensation of transferrin receptor-, Rab5-, and Rab11-positive recycling tubulovesicular membranes in the perinuclear region. Internalized transferrin was able to access these condensed endosomes but its exit from this compartment was delayed. Using deletion mutants, we show that the carboxy-terminal RING finger of Rffl is dispensable for its action. In contrast, the amino-terminal domain of Rffl, which shows similarities with the phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate–binding FYVE finger, is critical for the recruitment of Rffl to recycling endocytic membranes and for the inhibition of recycling, albeit in a manner that is independent of PtdIns(3)-kinase activity. Rffl overexpression represents a novel means to inhibit recycling that will help to understand the mechanisms involved in recycling from the ERC to the plasma membrane. PMID:15229288

Over-expression of Rififylin, a new RING finger and FYVE-like domain-containing protein, inhibits recycling from the endocytic recycling compartment.

PubMed

Coumailleau, Franck; Das, Vincent; Alcover, Andres; Raposo, Graça; Vandormael-Pournin, Sandrine; Le Bras, Stéphanie; Baldacci, Patricia; Dautry-Varsat, Alice; Babinet, Charles; Cohen-Tannoudji, Michel

2004-10-01

Endocytosed membrane components are recycled to the cell surface either directly from early/sorting endosomes or after going through the endocytic recycling compartment (ERC). Studying recycling mechanisms is difficult, in part due to the fact that specific tools to inhibit this process are scarce. In this study, we have characterized a novel widely expressed protein, named Rififylin (Rffl) for RING Finger and FYVE-like domain-containing protein, that, when overexpressed in HeLa cells, induced the condensation of transferrin receptor-, Rab5-, and Rab11-positive recycling tubulovesicular membranes in the perinuclear region. Internalized transferrin was able to access these condensed endosomes but its exit from this compartment was delayed. Using deletion mutants, we show that the carboxy-terminal RING finger of Rffl is dispensable for its action. In contrast, the amino-terminal domain of Rffl, which shows similarities with the phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate-binding FYVE finger, is critical for the recruitment of Rffl to recycling endocytic membranes and for the inhibition of recycling, albeit in a manner that is independent of PtdIns(3)-kinase activity. Rffl overexpression represents a novel means to inhibit recycling that will help to understand the mechanisms involved in recycling from the ERC to the plasma membrane.

The Respiratory Syncytial Virus Phosphoprotein, Matrix Protein, and Fusion Protein Carboxy-Terminal Domain Drive Efficient Filamentous Virus-Like Particle Formation

PubMed Central

Meshram, Chetan D.; Baviskar, Pradyumna S.; Ognibene, Cherie M.

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Virus-like particles (VLPs) are attractive as a vaccine concept. For human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV), VLP assembly is poorly understood and appears inefficient. Hence, hRSV antigens are often incorporated into foreign VLP systems to generate anti-RSV vaccine candidates. To better understand the assembly, and ultimately to enable efficient production, of authentic hRSV VLPs, we examined the associated requirements and mechanisms. In a previous analysis in HEp-2 cells, the nucleoprotein (N), phosphoprotein (P), matrix protein (M), and fusion protein (F) were required for formation of filamentous VLPs, which, similar to those of wild-type virus, were associated with the cell surface. Using fluorescence and electron microscopy combined with immunogold labeling, we examined the surfaces of transfected HEp-2 cells and further dissected the process of filamentous VLP formation. Our results show that N is not required. Coexpression of P plus M plus F, but not P plus M, M plus F, or P plus F, induced both viral protein coalescence and formation of filamentous VLPs that resembled wild-type virions. Despite suboptimal coalescence in the absence of P, the M and F proteins, when coexpressed, formed cell surface-associated filaments with abnormal morphology, appearing longer and thinner than wild-type virions. For F, only the carboxy terminus (Fstem) was required, and addition of foreign protein sequences to Fstem allowed incorporation into VLPs. Together, the data show that P, M, and the F carboxy terminus are sufficient for robust viral protein coalescence and filamentous VLP formation and suggest that M-F interaction drives viral filament formation, with P acting as a type of cofactor facilitating the process and exerting control over particle morphology. IMPORTANCE hRSV is responsible for >100,000 deaths in children worldwide, and a vaccine is not available. Among the potential anti-hRSV approaches are virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines, which, based on resemblance to virus or viral components, can induce protective immunity. For hRSV, few reports are available concerning authentic VLP production or testing, in large part because VLP production is inefficient and the mechanisms underlying particle assembly are poorly understood. Here, we took advantage of the cell-associated nature of RSV particles and used high-resolution microscopy analyses to examine the viral proteins required for formation of wild-type-virus-resembling VLPs, the contributions of these proteins to morphology, and the domains involved in incorporation of the antigenically important viral F protein. The results provide new insights that will facilitate future production of hRSV VLPs with defined shapes and compositions and may translate into improved manufacture of live-attenuated hRSV vaccines. PMID:27654298

Crystallization of the carboxy-terminal region of the bacteriophage T4 proximal long tail fibre protein gp34

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Granell, Meritxell; Namura, Mikiyoshi; Alvira, Sara

2014-06-19

The crystallization of three C-terminal fragments of the bacteriophage T4 protein gp34 is reported. Diffraction data have been obtained for three native crystal forms and two selenomethionine derivatives, one of which contained high-quality anomalous signal.

21 CFR 182.1745 - Sodium carboxymethylcellu-lose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Sodium carboxymethylcellu-lose. 182.1745 Section... GRAS Food Substances § 182.1745 Sodium carboxymethylcellu-lose. (a) Product. Sodium carboxy-methylcellulose is the sodium salt of carboxymethylcellulose not less than 99.5 percent on a dry-weight basis...

21 CFR 182.1745 - Sodium carboxymethylcellu-lose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Sodium carboxymethylcellu-lose. 182.1745 Section... GRAS Food Substances § 182.1745 Sodium carboxymethylcellu-lose. (a) Product. Sodium carboxy-methylcellulose is the sodium salt of carboxymethylcellulose not less than 99.5 percent on a dry-weight basis...

21 CFR 182.1745 - Sodium carboxymethylcellu-lose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Sodium carboxymethylcellu-lose. 182.1745 Section... GRAS Food Substances § 182.1745 Sodium carboxymethylcellu-lose. (a) Product. Sodium carboxy-methylcellulose is the sodium salt of carboxymethylcellulose not less than 99.5 percent on a dry-weight basis...

Liner Technology Program. Volume 3. Liner Development Methodology Manual

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-05-01

derivative of trimesic acid, trimenoyl-l- (2-ethyl) aziridine BNO Hydroxyl ethyl ester of carboxy-terminated polybutadiene Catocene Liquid ferrocene ...diisocyanate MAPO rris-l-(2-methyl) aziridinyl phosphine oxide I.’ lNA Methyl nedic anhydride; methyl endo-cis-cicyolo-2,2,1-5- heptene-2,3-dicarboxylic

Group Additivity in Ligand Binding Affinity: An Alternative Approach to Ligand Efficiency.

PubMed

Reynolds, Charles H; Reynolds, Ryan C

2017-12-26

Group additivity is a concept that has been successfully applied to a variety of thermochemical and kinetic properties. This includes drug discovery, where functional group additivity is often assumed in ligand binding. Ligand efficiency can be recast as a special case of group additivity where ΔG/HA is the group equivalent (HA is the number of non-hydrogen atoms in a ligand). Analysis of a large data set of protein-ligand binding affinities (K i ) for diverse targets shows that in general ligand binding is distinctly nonlinear. It is possible to create a group equivalent scheme for ligand binding, but only in the context of closely related proteins, at least with regard to size. This finding has broad implications for drug design from both experimental and computational points of view. It also offers a path forward for a more general scheme to assess the efficiency of ligand binding.

Role of angiotensin converting enzyme in the vascular effects of an endopeptidase 24.15 inhibitor.

PubMed Central

Telford, S E; Smith, A I; Lew, R A; Perich, R B; Madden, A C; Evans, R G

1995-01-01

1. We investigated the role of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) in the cardiovascular effects of N-[1-(R,S)-carboxy-3-phenylpropyl]-Ala-Ala-Tyr-p-aminobenzoate (cFP), a peptidase inhibitor selective for metalloendopeptidase (EP) E.C. 3.4.24.15. 2. In conscious rabbits, cFP (5 mg kg-1, i.v.) markedly slowed the degradation of [3H]-bradykinin, potentiated the depressor response to right atrial administration of bradykinin (10-1000 ng kg-1), and inhibited the pressor response to right atrial angiotensin I (10-100 ng kg-1). In each of these respects, the effects of cFP were indistinguishable from those of the ACE inhibitor, captopril (0.5 mg plus 10 mg kg-1h-1 i.v.). Furthermore, the effects of combined administration of cFP and captopril were indistinguishable from those of captopril alone. 3. In experimentally naive anaesthetized rats, cFP administration (9.3 mg kg-1, i.v.) was followed by a moderate but sustained fall in arterial pressure of 13 mmHg. However, in rats pretreated with bradykinin (50 micrograms kg-1) a more pronounced fall of 30 mmHg was observed. Captopril (5 mg kg-1) had similar hypotensive effects to those of cFP, and cFP had no effect when it was administered after captopril. 4. CFP displaced the binding of [125I]-351A (the p-hydroxybenzamidine derivative of lisinopril) from preparations of rat plasma ACE and solubilized lung membrane ACE (KD = 1.2 and 0.14 microM respectively), and inhibited rat plasma ACE activity (KI = 2.4 microM). Addition of phosphoramidon (10 microM), an inhibitor of a range of metalloendopeptidases, including neutral endopeptidase (E.C.3.4.24.11), markedly reduced the potency of cFP in these systems.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID:7620708

Expression and protective role of two novel NACHT-containing proteins in pathogen infection.

PubMed

Hu, Yi Wei; Yu, Zhang Long; Xue, Na Na; Nie, Pin; Chang, Ming Xian

2014-10-01

Lower vertebrates have been found to possess over 200 NACHT-domain encoding genes; but, to date, very little is known about their functional activity. This article describes the sequences and expression analysis of two zebrafish NACHT-containing proteins, namely NALPL1 and NALPL2. In addition, the functions of zebrafish NALPL1 and NALPL2, which are absent for both amino-terminal effector-binding domain (EBD) and carboxy-terminal ligand-recognition domain (LRD), were investigated for the first time in fish species. The predicted NALPL1 and NALPL2 proteins consist of 651 and 847 amino acids (aa), respectively, with both molecules only containing NACHT domain, which were different from other NACHT-family members. Phylogenetic analysis showed that zebrafish NALPL1 and NALPL2 have a closer relationship with mammalian NALP subfamily than NOD subfamily. The differential expression patterns of NALPL1 and NALPL2 in development stages and organs were observed, suggesting the difference of action phase and effector organ of NALPL1 and NALPL2. When the modulation of NALPL1 and NALPL2 in pathogen infection was analyzed, it was found that the two molecules were upregulated by both bacterial and viral infection. Overexpression of NALPL1 and NALPL2 resulted in significant inhibition for intracellular Edwardsiella tarda growth. Further studies demonstrated that NALPL1 and NALPL2 also contributed to protection against viral infection. These results demonstrate that both NALPL1 and NALPL2 are important intracellular proteins in host surveillance against both bacterial and viral infection. Interestingly, the expression of downstream signaling genes was not affected by the overexpression of NALPL1 or NALPL2, but NOD1 and MDA5 were upregulated by NALPL1 or NALPL2 overexpression, suggesting that they likely act in pathogen infection through the interaction with other PRRs. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Micromotor-based lab-on-chip immunoassays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

García, Miguel; Orozco, Jahir; Guix, Maria; Gao, Wei; Sattayasamitsathit, Sirilak; Escarpa, Alberto; Merkoçi, Arben; Wang, Joseph

2013-01-01

Here we describe the first example of using self-propelled antibody-functionalized synthetic catalytic microengines for capturing and transporting target proteins between the different reservoirs of a lab-on-a-chip (LOC) device. A new catalytic polymer/Ni/Pt microtube engine, containing carboxy moieties on its mixed poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)/COOH-PEDOT polymeric outermost layer, is further functionalized with the antibody receptor to selectively recognize and capture the target protein. The new motor-based microchip immunoassay operations are carried out without any bulk fluid flow, replacing the common washing steps in antibody-based protein bioassays with the active transport of the captured protein throughout the different reservoirs, where each step of the immunoassay takes place. A first microchip format involving an `on-the-fly' double-antibody sandwich assay (DASA) is used for demonstrating the selective capture of the target protein, in the presence of excess of non-target proteins. A secondary antibody tagged with a polymeric-sphere tracer allows the direct visualization of the binding events. In a second approach the immuno-nanomotor captures and transports the microsphere-tagged antigen through a microchannel network. An anti-protein-A modified microengine is finally used to demonstrate the selective capture, transport and convenient label-free optical detection of a Staphylococcus aureus target bacteria (containing proteinA in its cell wall) in the presence of a large excess of non-target (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) cells. The resulting nanomotor-based microchip immunoassay offers considerable potential for diverse applications in clinical diagnostics, environmental and security monitoring fields.Here we describe the first example of using self-propelled antibody-functionalized synthetic catalytic microengines for capturing and transporting target proteins between the different reservoirs of a lab-on-a-chip (LOC) device. A new catalytic polymer/Ni/Pt microtube engine, containing carboxy moieties on its mixed poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)/COOH-PEDOT polymeric outermost layer, is further functionalized with the antibody receptor to selectively recognize and capture the target protein. The new motor-based microchip immunoassay operations are carried out without any bulk fluid flow, replacing the common washing steps in antibody-based protein bioassays with the active transport of the captured protein throughout the different reservoirs, where each step of the immunoassay takes place. A first microchip format involving an `on-the-fly' double-antibody sandwich assay (DASA) is used for demonstrating the selective capture of the target protein, in the presence of excess of non-target proteins. A secondary antibody tagged with a polymeric-sphere tracer allows the direct visualization of the binding events. In a second approach the immuno-nanomotor captures and transports the microsphere-tagged antigen through a microchannel network. An anti-protein-A modified microengine is finally used to demonstrate the selective capture, transport and convenient label-free optical detection of a Staphylococcus aureus target bacteria (containing proteinA in its cell wall) in the presence of a large excess of non-target (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) cells. The resulting nanomotor-based microchip immunoassay offers considerable potential for diverse applications in clinical diagnostics, environmental and security monitoring fields. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c2nr32400h

Six orders of magnitude dynamic range in capillary electrophoresis with ultrasensitive laser-induced fluorescence detection

PubMed Central

Whitmore, Colin D.; Essaka, David; Dovichi, Norman J.

2009-01-01

An ultrasensitive laser-induced fluorescence detector was used with capillary electrophoresis for the study of 5-carboxy-tetramethylrhodamine. The raw signal from the detector provided roughly three orders of magnitude dynamic range. The signal saturated at high analyte concentrations due to the dead time associated with the single-photon counting avalanche photodiode employed in the detector. The signal can be corrected for the detector dead time, providing an additional order of magnitude dynamic range. To further increase dynamic range, two fiber-optic beam-splitters were cascaded to generate a primary signal and two attenuated signals, each monitored by a single-photon counting avalanche photodiode. The combined signals from the three photodiodes are reasonably linear from the concentration detection limit of 3 pM to 10 μM, the maximum concentration investigated, a range of 3,000,000. Mass detection limits were 150 yoctomoles injected onto the capillary. PMID:19836546

Monomer/Dimer Transition of the Caspase-Recruitment Domain of Human Nod1

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Srimathi,T.; Robbins, S.; Dubas, R.

2008-01-01

Nod1 is an essential cytoplasmic sensor for bacterial peptidoglycans in the innate immune system. The caspase-recruitment domain of Nod1 (Nod1{_}CARD) is indispensable for recruiting a downstream kinase, receptor-interacting protein 2 (RIP2), that activates nuclear factor-?B (NF-?B). The crystal structure of human Nod1{_}CARD at 1.9 Angstroms resolution reveals a novel homodimeric conformation. Our structural and biochemical analysis shows that the homodimerization of Nod1{_}CARD is achieved by swapping the H6 helices at the carboxy termini and stabilized by forming an interchain disulfide bond between the Cys39 residues of the two monomers in solution and in the crystal. In addition, we present experimentalmore » evidence for a pH-sensitive conformational change of Nod1{_}CARD. Our results suggest that the pH-sensitive monomer/dimer transition is a unique molecular property of Nod1{_}CARD.« less

dl-Asparaginium nitrate

PubMed Central

Moussa Slimane, Nabila; Cherouana, Aouatef; Bendjeddou, Lamia; Dahaoui, Slimane; Lecomte, Claude

2009-01-01

In the title compound, C4H9N2O3 +·NO3 −, alternatively called (1RS)-2-carbamoyl-1-carboxy­ethanaminium nitrate, the asymmetric unit comprises one asparaginium cation and one nitrate anion. The strongest cation–cation O—H⋯O hydrogen bond in the structure, together with other strong cation–cation N—H⋯O hydrogen bonds, generates a succession of infinite chains of R 2 2(8) rings along the b axis. Additional cation–cation C—H⋯O hydrogen bonds link these chains into two-dimensional layers formed by alternating R 4 4(24) and R 4 2(12) rings. Connections between these layers are provided by the strong cation–anion N—H⋯O hydrogen bonds, as well as by one weak C—H⋯O inter­action, thus forming a three-dimensional network. Some of the cation–anion N—H⋯O hydrogen bonds are bifurcated of the type D—H⋯(A 1,A 2). PMID:21577586

Structure of the parainfluenza virus 5 F protein in its metastable, prefusion conformation.

PubMed

Yin, Hsien-Sheng; Wen, Xiaolin; Paterson, Reay G; Lamb, Robert A; Jardetzky, Theodore S

2006-01-05

Enveloped viruses have evolved complex glycoprotein machinery that drives the fusion of viral and cellular membranes, permitting entry of the viral genome into the cell. For the paramyxoviruses, the fusion (F) protein catalyses this membrane merger and entry step, and it has been postulated that the F protein undergoes complex refolding during this process. Here we report the crystal structure of the parainfluenza virus 5 F protein in its prefusion conformation, stabilized by the addition of a carboxy-terminal trimerization domain. The structure of the F protein shows that there are profound conformational differences between the pre- and postfusion states, involving transformations in secondary and tertiary structure. The positions and structural transitions of key parts of the fusion machinery, including the hydrophobic fusion peptide and two helical heptad repeat regions, clarify the mechanism of membrane fusion mediated by the F protein.

The Juxtamembrane and carboxy-terminal domains of Arabidopsis PRK2 are critical for ROP-induced growth in pollen tubes

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Polarized growth of pollen tubes is a critical step for successful reproduction in angiosperms and is controlled by ROP GTPases. Spatiotemporal activation of ROP (Rho GTPases of plants) necessitates a complex and sophisticated regulatory system, in which guanine nucleotide exchange factors (RopGEFs)...

Polyethylene Glycol-Poly(2-Methyl-5-Vinyl Tetrazole) Polymer Blend (A desensitizing Binder for Propellants and Explosives)

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-03-01

PVA, CTBN , PBAA, PMMA, etc. As a test of this predictability, we dissolved a vinyl acetate polymer in THF, and then added PMVT, and did succeed in...Polyvinyl acetate CTBN Carboxy terminated butadiene acrylonitrile PBAA Polybutadiene acrylic acid PMMA Polymethyl. methacrylate THF Tetrahydrofuran NMR

Recombinant Forms of Leishmania amazonensis Excreted/Secreted Promastigote Surface Antigen (PSA) Induce Protective Immune Responses in Dogs

PubMed Central

Petitdidier, Elodie; Pagniez, Julie; Papierok, Gérard; Vincendeau, Philippe; Lemesre, Jean-Loup; Bras-Gonçalves, Rachel

2016-01-01

Preventive vaccination is a highly promising strategy for interrupting leishmaniasis transmission that can, additionally, contribute to elimination. A vaccine formulation based on naturally excreted secreted (ES) antigens was prepared from L. infantum promastigote culture supernatant. This vaccine achieved successful results in Phase III trials and was licensed and marketed as CaniLeish. We recently showed that newly identified ES promastigote surface antigen (PSA), from both viable promastigotes and axenically-grown amastigotes, represented the major constituent and the highly immunogenic antigen of L. infantum and L. amazonensis ES products. We report here that three immunizations with either the recombinant ES LaPSA-38S (rPSA) or its carboxy terminal part LaPSA-12S (Cter-rPSA), combined with QA-21 as adjuvant, confer high levels of protection in naive L. infantum-infected Beagle dogs, as checked by bone marrow parasite absence in respectively 78.8% and 80% of vaccinated dogs at 6 months post-challenge. The parasite burden in infected vaccinated dogs was significantly reduced compared to placebo group, as measured by q-PCR. Moreover, our results reveal humoral and cellular immune response clear-cut differences between vaccinated and control dogs. An early increase in specific IgG2 antibodies was observed in rPSA/QA-21- and Cter-rPSA/QA-21-immunized dogs only. They were found functionally active in vitro and were highly correlated with vaccine protection. In vaccinated protected dogs, IFN-γ and NO productions, as well as anti-leishmanial macrophage activity, were increased. These data strongly suggest that ES PSA or its carboxy-terminal part, in recombinant forms, induce protection in a canine model of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis by inducing a Th1-dominant immune response and an appropriate specific antibody response. These data suggest that they could be considered as important active components in vaccine candidates. PMID:27223609

Recombinant Forms of Leishmania amazonensis Excreted/Secreted Promastigote Surface Antigen (PSA) Induce Protective Immune Responses in Dogs.

PubMed

Petitdidier, Elodie; Pagniez, Julie; Papierok, Gérard; Vincendeau, Philippe; Lemesre, Jean-Loup; Bras-Gonçalves, Rachel

2016-05-01

Preventive vaccination is a highly promising strategy for interrupting leishmaniasis transmission that can, additionally, contribute to elimination. A vaccine formulation based on naturally excreted secreted (ES) antigens was prepared from L. infantum promastigote culture supernatant. This vaccine achieved successful results in Phase III trials and was licensed and marketed as CaniLeish. We recently showed that newly identified ES promastigote surface antigen (PSA), from both viable promastigotes and axenically-grown amastigotes, represented the major constituent and the highly immunogenic antigen of L. infantum and L. amazonensis ES products. We report here that three immunizations with either the recombinant ES LaPSA-38S (rPSA) or its carboxy terminal part LaPSA-12S (Cter-rPSA), combined with QA-21 as adjuvant, confer high levels of protection in naive L. infantum-infected Beagle dogs, as checked by bone marrow parasite absence in respectively 78.8% and 80% of vaccinated dogs at 6 months post-challenge. The parasite burden in infected vaccinated dogs was significantly reduced compared to placebo group, as measured by q-PCR. Moreover, our results reveal humoral and cellular immune response clear-cut differences between vaccinated and control dogs. An early increase in specific IgG2 antibodies was observed in rPSA/QA-21- and Cter-rPSA/QA-21-immunized dogs only. They were found functionally active in vitro and were highly correlated with vaccine protection. In vaccinated protected dogs, IFN-γ and NO productions, as well as anti-leishmanial macrophage activity, were increased. These data strongly suggest that ES PSA or its carboxy-terminal part, in recombinant forms, induce protection in a canine model of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis by inducing a Th1-dominant immune response and an appropriate specific antibody response. These data suggest that they could be considered as important active components in vaccine candidates.

Biarsenical labeling of vesicular stomatitis virus encoding tetracysteine-tagged m protein allows dynamic imaging of m protein and virus uncoating in infected cells.

PubMed

Das, Subash C; Panda, Debasis; Nayak, Debasis; Pattnaik, Asit K

2009-03-01

A recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV-PeGFP-M-MmRFP) encoding enhanced green fluorescent protein fused in frame with P (PeGFP) in place of P and a fusion matrix protein (monomeric red fluorescent protein fused in frame at the carboxy terminus of M [MmRFP]) at the G-L gene junction, in addition to wild-type (wt) M protein in its normal location, was recovered, but the MmRFP was not incorporated into the virions. Subsequently, we generated recombinant viruses (VSV-PeGFP-DeltaM-Mtc and VSV-DeltaM-Mtc) encoding M protein with a carboxy-terminal tetracysteine tag (Mtc) in place of the M protein. These recombinant viruses incorporated Mtc at levels similar to M in wt VSV, demonstrating recovery of infectious rhabdoviruses encoding and incorporating a tagged M protein. Virions released from cells infected with VSV-PeGFP-DeltaM-Mtc and labeled with the biarsenical red dye (ReAsH) were dually fluorescent, fluorescing green due to incorporation of PeGFP in the nucleocapsids and red due to incorporation of ReAsH-labeled Mtc in the viral envelope. Transport and subsequent association of M protein with the plasma membrane were shown to be independent of microtubules. Sequential labeling of VSV-DeltaM-Mtc-infected cells with the biarsenical dyes ReAsH and FlAsH (green) revealed that newly synthesized M protein reaches the plasma membrane in less than 30 min and continues to accumulate there for up to 2 1/2 hours. Using dually fluorescent VSV, we determined that following adsorption at the plasma membrane, the time taken by one-half of the virus particles to enter cells and to uncoat their nucleocapsids in the cytoplasm is approximately 28 min.

Ubiquitin Carboxy-Terminal Hydrolase-L1 as a Serum Neurotrauma Biomarker for Exposure to Occupational Low-Level Blast

PubMed Central

Carr, Walter; Yarnell, Angela M.; Ong, Ricardo; Walilko, Timothy; Kamimori, Gary H.; da Silva, Uade; McCarron, Richard M.; LoPresti, Matthew L.

2015-01-01

Repeated exposure to low-level blast is a characteristic of a few select occupations and there is concern that such occupational exposures present risk for traumatic brain injury. These occupations include specialized military and law enforcement units that employ controlled detonation of explosive charges for the purpose of tactical entry into secured structures. The concern for negative effects from blast exposure is based on rates of operator self-reported headache, sleep disturbance, working memory impairment, and other concussion-like symptoms. A challenge in research on this topic has been the need for improved assessment tools to empirically evaluate the risk associated with repeated exposure to blast overpressure levels commonly considered to be too low in magnitude to cause acute injury. Evaluation of serum-based neurotrauma biomarkers provides an objective measure that is logistically feasible for use in field training environments. Among candidate biomarkers, ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1) has some empirical support and was evaluated in this study. We used daily blood draws to examine acute change in UCH-L1 among 108 healthy military personnel who were exposed to repeated low-level blast across a 2-week period. These research volunteers also wore pressure sensors to record blast exposures, wrist actigraphs to monitor sleep patterns, and completed daily behavioral assessments of symptomology, postural stability, and neurocognitive function. UCH-L1 levels were elevated as a function of participating in the 2-week training with explosives, but the correlation of UCH-L1 elevation and blast magnitude was weak and inconsistent. Also, UCH-L1 elevations did not correlate with deficits in behavioral measures. These results provide some support for including UCH-L1 as a measure of central nervous system effects from exposure to low-level blast. However, the weak relation observed suggests that additional indicators of blast effect are needed. PMID:25852633

Mutations in yeast proliferating cell nuclear antigen define distinct sites for interaction with DNA polymerase delta and DNA polymerase epsilon.

PubMed Central

Eissenberg, J C; Ayyagari, R; Gomes, X V; Burgers, P M

1997-01-01

The importance of the interdomain connector loop and of the carboxy-terminal domain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) for functional interaction with DNA polymerases delta (Poldelta) and epsilon (Pol epsilon) was investigated by site-directed mutagenesis. Two alleles, pol30-79 (IL126,128AA) in the interdomain connector loop and pol30-90 (PK252,253AA) near the carboxy terminus, caused growth defects and elevated sensitivity to DNA-damaging agents. These two mutants also had elevated rates of spontaneous mutations. The mutator phenotype of pol30-90 was due to partially defective mismatch repair in the mutant. In vitro, the mutant PCNAs showed defects in DNA synthesis. Interestingly, the pol30-79 mutant PCNA (pcna-79) was most defective in replication with Poldelta, whereas pcna-90 was defective in replication with Pol epsilon. Protein-protein interaction studies showed that pcna-79 and pcna-90 failed to interact with Pol delta and Pol epsilon, respectively. In addition, pcna-90 was defective in interaction with the FEN-1 endo-exonuclease (RTH1 product). A loss of interaction between pcna-79 and the smallest subunit of Poldelta, the POL32 gene product, implicates this interaction in the observed defect with the polymerase. Neither PCNA mutant showed a defect in the interaction with replication factor C or in loading by this complex. Processivity of DNA synthesis by the mutant holoenzyme containing pcna-79 was unaffected on poly(dA) x oligo(dT) but was dramatically reduced on a natural template with secondary structure. A stem-loop structure with a 20-bp stem formed a virtually complete block for the holoenzyme containing pcna-79 but posed only a minor pause site for wild-type holoenzyme, indicating a function of the POL32 gene product in allowing replication past structural blocks. PMID:9343398

Intermolecular Interactions in the TMEM16A Dimer Controlling Channel Activity.

PubMed

Scudieri, Paolo; Musante, Ilaria; Gianotti, Ambra; Moran, Oscar; Galietta, Luis J V

2016-12-08

TMEM16A and TMEM16B are plasma membrane proteins with Ca 2+ -dependent Cl - channel function. By replacing the carboxy-terminus of TMEM16A with the equivalent region of TMEM16B, we obtained channels with potentiation of channel activity. Progressive shortening of the chimeric region restricted the "activating domain" to a short sequence close to the last transmembrane domain and led to TMEM16A channels with high activity at very low intracellular Ca 2+ concentrations. To elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying this effect, we carried out experiments based on double chimeras, Forster resonance energy transfer, and intermolecular cross-linking. We also modeled TMEM16A structure using the Nectria haematococca TMEM16 protein as template. Our results indicate that the enhanced activity in chimeric channels is due to altered interaction between the carboxy-terminus and the first intracellular loop in the TMEM16A homo-dimer. Mimicking this perturbation with a small molecule could be the basis for a pharmacological stimulation of TMEM16A-dependent Cl - transport.

Intermolecular Interactions in the TMEM16A Dimer Controlling Channel Activity

PubMed Central

Scudieri, Paolo; Musante, Ilaria; Gianotti, Ambra; Moran, Oscar; Galietta, Luis J. V.

2016-01-01

TMEM16A and TMEM16B are plasma membrane proteins with Ca2+-dependent Cl− channel function. By replacing the carboxy-terminus of TMEM16A with the equivalent region of TMEM16B, we obtained channels with potentiation of channel activity. Progressive shortening of the chimeric region restricted the “activating domain” to a short sequence close to the last transmembrane domain and led to TMEM16A channels with high activity at very low intracellular Ca2+ concentrations. To elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying this effect, we carried out experiments based on double chimeras, Forster resonance energy transfer, and intermolecular cross-linking. We also modeled TMEM16A structure using the Nectria haematococca TMEM16 protein as template. Our results indicate that the enhanced activity in chimeric channels is due to altered interaction between the carboxy-terminus and the first intracellular loop in the TMEM16A homo-dimer. Mimicking this perturbation with a small molecule could be the basis for a pharmacological stimulation of TMEM16A-dependent Cl− transport. PMID:27929144

Selective degradation of ibuprofen and clofibric acid in two model river biofilm systems.

PubMed

Winkler, M; Lawrence, J R; Neu, T R

2001-09-01

A field survey indicated that the Elbe and Saale Rivers were contaminated with both clofibric acid and ibuprofen. In Elbe River water we could detect the metabolite hydroxy-ibuprofen. Analyses of the city of Saskatoon sewage effluent discharged to the South Saskatchewan river detected clofibric acid but neither ibuprofen nor any metabolite. Laboratory studies indicated that the pharmaceutical ibuprofen was readily degraded in a river biofilm reactor. Two metabolites were detected and identified as hydroxy- and carboxy-ibuprofen. Both metabolites were observed to degrade in the biofilm reactors. However, in human metabolism the metabolite carboxy-ibuprofen appears and degrades second whereas the opposite occurs in biofilm systems. In biofilms the pharmacologically inactive stereoisomere of ibuprofen is degraded predominantly. In contrast, clofibric acid was not biologically degraded during the experimental period of 21 days. Similar results were obtained using biofilms developed using waters from either the South Saskatchewan or Elbe River. In a sterile reactor no losses of ibuprofen were observed. These results suggested that abiotic losses and adsorption played only a minimal role in the fate of the pharmaceuticals in the river biofilm reactors.

New dye-labeled terminators for improved DNA sequencing patterns.

PubMed Central

Rosenblum, B B; Lee, L G; Spurgeon, S L; Khan, S H; Menchen, S M; Heiner, C R; Chen, S M

1997-01-01

We have used two new dye sets for automated dye-labeled terminator DNA sequencing. One set consists of four, 4,7-dichlororhodamine dyes (d-rhodamines). The second set consists of energy-transfer dyes that use the 5-carboxy-d-rhodamine dyes as acceptor dyes and the 5- or 6-carboxy isomers of 4'-aminomethylfluorescein as the donor dye. Both dye sets utilize a new linker between the dye and the nucleotide, and both provide more even peak heights in terminator sequencing than the dye-terminators consisting of unsubstituted rhodamine dyes. The unsubstituted rhodamine terminators produced electropherograms in which weak G peaks are observed after A peaks and occasionally C peaks. The number of weak G peaks has been reduced or eliminated with the new dye terminators. The general improvement in peak evenness improves accuracy for the automated base-calling software. The improved signal-to-noise ratio of the energy-transfer dye-labeled terminators combined with more even peak heights results in successful sequencing of high molecular weight DNA templates such as bacterial artificial chromosome DNA. PMID:9358158

Quantification of 11-Carboxy-Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-COOH) in Meconium Using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS).

PubMed

Peat, Judy; Davis, Brehon; Frazee, Clint; Garg, Uttam

2016-01-01

Maternal substance abuse is an ongoing concern and detecting drug use during pregnancy is an important component of neonatal care when drug abuse is suspected. Meconium is the preferred specimen for drug testing because it is easier to collect than neonatal urine and it provides a much broader time frame of drug exposure. We describe a method for quantifying 11-carboxy-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-COOH) in meconium. After adding a labeled internal standard (THC-COOH D9) and acetonitrile, samples are sonicated to release both free and conjugated THC-COOH. The acetonitrile/aqueous layer is removed and mixed with a strong base to hydrolyze the conjugated THC-COOH. The samples are then extracted with an organic solvent mixture as part of a sample "cleanup." The organic solvent layer is discarded and the remaining aqueous sample is acidified. Following extraction with a second organic mixture, the organic layer is removed and concentrated to dryness. The resulting residue is converted to a trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivative and analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) in selective ion monitoring (SIM) mode.

Reduction process of nitroxyl spin probes used in Overhauser-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging: An ESR study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Meenakumari, V.; Premkumar, S.; Benial, A. Milton Franklin, E-mail: miltonfranklin@yahoo.com

The Electron spin resonance studies on the reduction process of nitroxyl spin probes were carried out for 1mM {sup 14}N- labeled nitroxyl radicals in pure water and 1 mM concentration of ascorbic acid as a function of time. The electron spin resonance parameters, such as line width, hyperfine coupling constant, g-factor, signal intensity ratio and rotational correlation time were estimated. The 3-carbamoyl-PROXYL radical has narrowest line width and fast tumbling motion compared with 3-carboxy-PROXYL, 4-methoxy-TEMPO, and 4-acetamido-TEMPO radicals. The half life time and decay rate were estimated for 1mM concentration of {sup 14}N- labeled nitroxyl radicals in 1 mM concentration ofmore » ascorbic acid. From the results, the 3-carbamoyl-PROXYL has long half life time and high stability compared with 3-carboxy-PROXYL, 4-methoxy-TEMPO and 4-acetamido-TEMPO radicals. Therefore, this study reveals that the 3-carbamoyl-PROXYL radical can act as a good redox sensitive spin probe for Overhauser-enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging.« less

Physical and antimicrobial properties of starch-carboxy methyl cellulose film containing rosemary essential oils encapsulated in chitosan nanogel.

PubMed

Mohsenabadi, Nafiseh; Rajaei, Ahmad; Tabatabaei, Meisam; Mohsenifar, Afshin

2018-06-01

This study was set to prepare a new active film by using a biodegradable bio-based source, i.e., corn starch. To achieve that, benzoic acid (BA) and chitosan (CS) were covalently bound and CS-BA nanogel was then obtained using self-assembly method. Subsequently, rosemary essential oil (REO) was encapsulated in CS-BA nanogel. Finally, REO in both free and encapsulated forms were incorporated in starch-carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC) films and their physical, mechanical and antimicrobial properties were studied. The films incorporating CS-BA nanogel had a higher water vapor permeability compared with the films containing REO. Moreover, film containing 0.2% CS-BA nanogel had the highest transparency and tensile strength. The REO and nanogel alone had inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and by encapsulation, the inhibitory effect of REO was increased. By encapsulating REO in nanogel, both immediately (REO) and gradual (Nanogel) antimicrobial effect against S. aureus in the starch-CMC suspensions were obtained. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Association of ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase-L1 in cerebrospinal fluid with clinical severity in a cohort of patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome.

PubMed

Nagamine, Satoshi; Fujiwara, Yuuki; Shimizu, Toshio; Kawata, Akihiro; Wada, Keiji; Isozaki, Eiji; Kabuta, Tomohiro

2015-06-01

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute immune-mediated polyneuropathy. Although its pathogenic mechanism has been revealed and various therapeutic trials have been performed, a proportion of patients experience the severe sequelae associated with GBS. In this paper, we investigated whether the amount of the neuron-specific protein, ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1), in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with GBS was correlated with the clinical course of the disease. UCH-L1 protein levels were greater in patients with GBS than in controls. The patients with GBS whose UCH-L1 protein levels were higher than those of the controls presented with more severe symptoms at peak. UCH-L1 protein levels tended to become elevated as the total protein levels were increased; however, elevated UCH-L1 without an increase in total protein might be correlated with severe disease course (bedridden or ventilator supported). These results suggest that UCH-L1 could be a biomarker associated with the severity of the disease at the acute phase of GBS.

Semisynthetic Penicillin 6-[d(—)-α-Carboxy-3-Thienylacetamido] Penicillanic Acid Active Against Pseudomonas In Vitro

PubMed Central

Neu, H. C.; Winshell, E. B.

1971-01-01

The activity of 6-[d(—)-α-carboxy-3-thienylacetamido] penicillanic acid, BRL2288, was determined against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and various gram-negative bacilli. The majority of Pseudomonas strains (89%) were inhibited by 100 μg of the antibiotic per ml. BRL2288 is twofold more active than carbenicillin against Pseudomonas at 100 μg/ml or less. Among Enterobacteriaceae tested, 87% Enterobacter and 87% of Proteus mirabilis strains were inhibited by 25 μg/ml or less. Indole-positive Proteus were inhibited by 10 μg/ml or less. Fifty-five per cent of ampicillin-resistant Escherichia coli were inhibited by 100 μg/ml. Klebsiella were uniformly resistant. BRL2288 is not hydrolyzed by most resistant Pseudomonas, but it is destroyed by the β-lactamases of E. coli and P. mirabilis. The antibiotic shows synergy with gentamicin but not with penicillinase-resistant penicillins such as cloxacillin. Activity of BRL2288 against gram-positive organisms is two- to eightfold less than that of ampicillin or benzylpenicillin G. PMID:4993233

Intermolecular Interactions in the TMEM16A Dimer Controlling Channel Activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scudieri, Paolo; Musante, Ilaria; Gianotti, Ambra; Moran, Oscar; Galietta, Luis J. V.

2016-12-01

TMEM16A and TMEM16B are plasma membrane proteins with Ca2+-dependent Cl- channel function. By replacing the carboxy-terminus of TMEM16A with the equivalent region of TMEM16B, we obtained channels with potentiation of channel activity. Progressive shortening of the chimeric region restricted the “activating domain” to a short sequence close to the last transmembrane domain and led to TMEM16A channels with high activity at very low intracellular Ca2+ concentrations. To elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying this effect, we carried out experiments based on double chimeras, Forster resonance energy transfer, and intermolecular cross-linking. We also modeled TMEM16A structure using the Nectria haematococca TMEM16 protein as template. Our results indicate that the enhanced activity in chimeric channels is due to altered interaction between the carboxy-terminus and the first intracellular loop in the TMEM16A homo-dimer. Mimicking this perturbation with a small molecule could be the basis for a pharmacological stimulation of TMEM16A-dependent Cl- transport.

Reduction process of nitroxyl spin probes used in Overhauser-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging: An ESR study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meenakumari, V.; Jawahar, A.; Premkumar, S.; Benial, A. Milton Franklin

2016-05-01

The Electron spin resonance studies on the reduction process of nitroxyl spin probes were carried out for 1mM 14N- labeled nitroxyl radicals in pure water and 1 mM concentration of ascorbic acid as a function of time. The electron spin resonance parameters, such as line width, hyperfine coupling constant, g-factor, signal intensity ratio and rotational correlation time were estimated. The 3-carbamoyl-PROXYL radical has narrowest line width and fast tumbling motion compared with 3-carboxy-PROXYL, 4-methoxy-TEMPO, and 4-acetamido-TEMPO radicals. The half life time and decay rate were estimated for 1mM concentration of 14N- labeled nitroxyl radicals in 1 mM concentration of ascorbic acid. From the results, the 3-carbamoyl-PROXYL has long half life time and high stability compared with 3-carboxy-PROXYL, 4-methoxy-TEMPO and 4-acetamido-TEMPO radicals. Therefore, this study reveals that the 3-carbamoyl-PROXYL radical can act as a good redox sensitive spin probe for Overhauser-enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Increased levels of N(ε)- Carboxy methyl lysine (N(ε)-CML) are associated with topographic alterations in retinal pigment epithelium: A preliminary study.

PubMed

Mishra, Nibha; Saxena, Sandeep; Ruia, Surabhi; Prasad, Senthamizh; Singh, Vinita; Khanna, Vinay; Staffa, Robert; Gaspar, Ludovit; Kruzliak, Peter

2016-07-01

To evaluate the association of serum levels of N(ε)- Carboxy methyl lysine (N(ε)-CML), an advanced glycation end product with topographic alterations in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in diabetic retinopathy on spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Consecutive cases of type 2 diabetes mellitus with no retinopathy (n=20); non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (n=20); proliferative diabetic retinopathy (n=20) and healthy controls (n=20) between the ages of 40 and 65years were included. RPE alterations were graded on segmentation map of SD-OCT: grade 0, No RPE alterations; grade 1, RPE alterations in up to two quadrants and grade 2, RPE alterations in more than two quadrants. Serum level of N(ε)-CML and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was analyzed using the standard protocol. Statistical analysis was done. Significant increase in N(ε)-CML was observed with increased severity of diabetic retinopathy (F=34.1; p<0.0001). Fisher exact test revealed significant increase in grades of RPE alterations with increased severity of diabetic retinopathy (p<0.001). Univariate ordinal regression analysis was done to calculate the risk of progression in grades of RPE alteration with individual changes in variables like duration of diabetes (odds ratio=1.37; p=0.001), HbA1c (odds ratio=1.37; p=0.002) and Nε-CML (odds ratio=1.37; p<0.0001). Multivariate ordinal regression analysis for predicting progression in grades of RPE alteration revealed Nε-CML to be an independent predictor of increase in grades of RPE alteration (adjusted odds ratio=1.07; p<0.01) when duration of diabetes and HbA1c were held constant. Increase in serum levels of N(ε)- Carboxy methyl lysine is significantly associated with topographic alterations in RPE. Grades of RPE alteration increase significantly with increased severity of diabetic retinopathy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The role of carboxy-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type I collagen, dual x-ray absorptiometry bone strain and Romberg test in a new osteoporotic fracture risk evaluation: A proposal from an observational study.

PubMed

Ulivieri, Fabio M; Piodi, Luca P; Grossi, Enzo; Rinaudo, Luca; Messina, Carmelo; Tassi, Anna P; Filopanti, Marcello; Tirelli, Anna; Sardanelli, Francesco

2018-01-01

The consolidated way of diagnosing and treating osteoporosis in order to prevent fragility fractures has recently been questioned by some papers, which complained of overdiagnosis and consequent overtreatment of this pathology with underestimating other causes of the fragility fractures, like falls. A new clinical approach is proposed for identifying the subgroup of patients prone to fragility fractures. This retrospective observational study was conducted from January to June 2015 at the Nuclear Medicine-Bone Metabolic Unit of the of the Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Milan, Italy. An Italian population of 125 consecutive postmenopausal women was investigated for bone quantity and bone quality. Patients with neurological diseases regarding balance and vestibular dysfunction, sarcopenia, past or current history of diseases and use of drugs known to affect bone metabolism were excluded. Dual X-ray absorptiometry was used to assess bone quantity (bone mineral density) and bone quality (trabecular bone score and bone strain). Biochemical markers of bone turnover (type I collagen carboxy-terminal telopeptide, alkaline phosphatase, vitamin D) have been measured. Morphometric fractures have been searched by spine radiography. Balance was evaluated by the Romberg test. The data were evaluated with the neural network analysis using the Auto Contractive Map algorithm. The resulting semantic map shows the Minimal Spanning Tree and the Maximally Regular Graph of the interrelations between bone status parameters, balance conditions and fractures of the studied population. A low fracture risk seems to be related to a low carboxy-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type I collagen level, whereas a positive Romberg test, together with compromised bone trabecular microarchitecture DXA parameters, appears to be strictly connected with fragility fractures. A simple assessment of the risk of fragility fracture is proposed in order to identify those frail patients at risk for osteoporotic fractures, who may have the best benefit from a pharmacological and physiotherapeutic approach.

Determination of cannabinoids in hemp nut products in Taiwan by HPLC-MS/MS coupled with chemometric analysis: quality evaluation and a pilot human study.

PubMed

Chang, Chih-Wei; Tung, Chun-Wei; Tsai, Chin-Chuan; Wu, Yu-Tse; Hsu, Mei-Chich

2017-06-01

Hemp nuts are mature cannabis seeds obtained after shelling and that are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating functional constipation. In this work, we screened hemp nut products, classified them, and verified the legality of consuming them. A total of 18 products were purchased from Taiwan, China, and Canada. Validated high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry methods were developed for analyzing the cannabinoid (i.e., Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabinol) content of the products and the concentration of urinary 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC. Chemometric techniques, namely hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA), were applied for rapidly classifying 11 concentrated powder products in Taiwan. A pilot human study comprising single and multiple administrations of a product with 1.5 µg/g of THC was conducted to examine the urinary 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC concentration. Through optimization of 3 2 full factorial design, using 60% isopropanol as the extraction solvent exhibited the highest yield of cannabinoids and was applied as the optimal condition in further analysis. The results of HCA and PCA on quality evaluation were in good agreement; however, the tested products possessed distinct CBD-to-THC ratios which ranged widely from 0.1:1 to 46.8:1. Particularly, the products with CBD-to-THC ratios higher than 1:1 were the majority in Taiwan. Our data suggested that all the tested hemp nut products met the Taiwan restriction criterion of 10 µg/g of THC. We propose a usual consumption amount of hemp nut products in Taiwan would unlikely to violate the cut-off point of 15 ng/mL of urinary 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Research to lessen the amounts of curing agents in processed meat through use of rock salt and carbon monoxide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakata, R.; Takeda, S.; Kinoshita, Y.; Waga, M.

2017-09-01

This study was carried out to examine the reddening of meat products due to the addition of natural yellow salt (YS) and carbon monoxide (CO). Following YS or NaCl addition at 2% to pork subsequent to nitrite (0∼100 ppm) treatment, color development due to this addition was analyzed visually. Heme pigment content in the meat was also determined spectrophotometrically. YS was found to bring about greater reddening than NaCl, indicating residual nitrite and nitrate content to be significantly higher in meat containing YS, through the amount of either was quite small. The amount of nitrite required for a red color to develop was noted to vary significantly from one meat product to another. CO treatment of pork caused the formation of carboxy myoglobin (COMb) with consequent reddening of the meat. COMb was shown to be heat-stable and form stably at pH 5.0 to ∼8.0 and to be extractable with water, but was barely extractable at all with acetone. Nitric oxide was found to have greater affinity toward myoglobin (Mb) than CO. Nitrosyl Mb was noted to be stable in all meat products examined. CO was seen to be capable of controlling the extent of lipid oxidation.

Distribution of \\0x03949-Tetrahydrocannabinol and 11-Nor-9-Carboxy-\\0x03949-Tetrahydrocannabinol acid in postmortem biological fluids and tissues from pilots fatally injured in aviation accidents.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-12-01

Despite a long history of research on the pharmacology of 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary active cannabinoid in marijuana, little is known of its distribution in postmortem fluids and tissues. This study presents postmortem fluid and tiss...

Co-evolution of chitinases from maize and other cereals with secreted proteases from Pleosporineae fungi

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Plant class IV chitinases are composed of a carboxy-terminal chitinase domain that is attached, through a linker sequence, to a small amino-terminal domain that can be thought of as a structured peptide. While both the peptide-like domain and the chitinase domain share sequence homology throughout m...

Crystallographic structure of ChitA, a glycoside hydrolase family 19, plant class IV chitinase from Zea mays

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Maize ChitA chitinase is composed of a small, hevein-like domain attached to a carboxy-terminal chitinase domain. During fungal ear rot, the hevein-like domain is cleaved by secreted fungal proteases to produce truncated forms of ChitA. Here, we report a structural and biochemical characterization o...

HK022 Nun Requires Arginine-Rich Motif Residues Distinct from λ N

PubMed Central

Tawk, Caroline S.; Ghattas, Ingrid R.

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT Bacteriophage λ N protein binds boxB RNA hairpins in the nut (N utilization) sites of immediate early λ transcripts and interacts with host factors to suppress transcriptional termination at downstream terminators. In opposition to λ N, the Nun protein of HK022 binds the boxBs of coinfecting λ transcripts, interacts with a similar or identical set of host factors, and terminates transcription to suppress λ replication. Comparison of N-boxB and Nun-boxB nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) structural models suggests similar interactions, though limited mutagenesis of Nun is available. Here, libraries of Nun's arginine-rich motif (ARM) were screened for the ability to exclude λ coinfection, and mutants were assayed for Nun termination with a boxB plasmid reporter system. Several Nun ARM residues appear to be immutable: Asp26, Arg28, Arg29, Arg32, Trp33, and Arg36. Asp26 and Trp33 appear to be unable to contact boxB and are not found at equivalent positions in λ N ARM. To understand if the requirement of Asp26, Trp33, and Arg36 indicated differences between HK022 Nun termination and λ N antitermination complexes, the same Nun libraries were fused to the activation domain of λ N and screened for clones able to complement N-deficient λ. Mutants were assayed for N antitermination. Surprisingly, Asp26 and Trp33 were still essential when Nun ARM was fused to N. Docking suggests that Nun ARM contacts a hydrophobic surface of the NusG carboxy-terminal domain containing residues necessary for Nun function. These findings indicate that Nun ARM relies on distinct contacts in its ternary complex and illustrate how protein-RNA recognition can evolve new regulatory functions. IMPORTANCE λ N protein interacts with host factors to allow λ nut-containing transcripts to elongate past termination signals. A competing bacteriophage, HK022, expresses Nun protein, which causes termination of λ nut transcripts. λ N and HK022 Nun use similar arginine-rich motifs (ARMs) to bind the same boxB RNAs in nut transcripts. Screening libraries of Nun ARM mutants, both in HK022 Nun and in a λ N fusion, revealed amino acids essential to Nun that could bind one or more host factors. Docking suggests that NusG, which is present in both Nun termination and N antitermination, is a plausible partner. These findings could help understand how transcription elongation is regulated and illustrate how subtle differences allow ARMs to evolve new regulatory functions. PMID:26350130

HK022 Nun Requires Arginine-Rich Motif Residues Distinct from λ N.

PubMed

Tawk, Caroline S; Ghattas, Ingrid R; Smith, Colin A

2015-11-01

Bacteriophage λ N protein binds boxB RNA hairpins in the nut (N utilization) sites of immediate early λ transcripts and interacts with host factors to suppress transcriptional termination at downstream terminators. In opposition to λ N, the Nun protein of HK022 binds the boxBs of coinfecting λ transcripts, interacts with a similar or identical set of host factors, and terminates transcription to suppress λ replication. Comparison of N-boxB and Nun-boxB nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) structural models suggests similar interactions, though limited mutagenesis of Nun is available. Here, libraries of Nun's arginine-rich motif (ARM) were screened for the ability to exclude λ coinfection, and mutants were assayed for Nun termination with a boxB plasmid reporter system. Several Nun ARM residues appear to be immutable: Asp26, Arg28, Arg29, Arg32, Trp33, and Arg36. Asp26 and Trp33 appear to be unable to contact boxB and are not found at equivalent positions in λ N ARM. To understand if the requirement of Asp26, Trp33, and Arg36 indicated differences between HK022 Nun termination and λ N antitermination complexes, the same Nun libraries were fused to the activation domain of λ N and screened for clones able to complement N-deficient λ. Mutants were assayed for N antitermination. Surprisingly, Asp26 and Trp33 were still essential when Nun ARM was fused to N. Docking suggests that Nun ARM contacts a hydrophobic surface of the NusG carboxy-terminal domain containing residues necessary for Nun function. These findings indicate that Nun ARM relies on distinct contacts in its ternary complex and illustrate how protein-RNA recognition can evolve new regulatory functions. λ N protein interacts with host factors to allow λ nut-containing transcripts to elongate past termination signals. A competing bacteriophage, HK022, expresses Nun protein, which causes termination of λ nut transcripts. λ N and HK022 Nun use similar arginine-rich motifs (ARMs) to bind the same boxB RNAs in nut transcripts. Screening libraries of Nun ARM mutants, both in HK022 Nun and in a λ N fusion, revealed amino acids essential to Nun that could bind one or more host factors. Docking suggests that NusG, which is present in both Nun termination and N antitermination, is a plausible partner. These findings could help understand how transcription elongation is regulated and illustrate how subtle differences allow ARMs to evolve new regulatory functions. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Role of Metal Ions on the Activity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Pyrazinamidase

PubMed Central

Sheen, Patricia; Ferrer, Patricia; Gilman, Robert H.; Christiansen, Gina; Moreno-Román, Paola; Gutiérrez, Andrés H.; Sotelo, Jun; Evangelista, Wilfredo; Fuentes, Patricia; Rueda, Daniel; Flores, Myra; Olivera, Paula; Solis, José; Pesaresi, Alessandro; Lamba, Doriano; Zimic, Mirko

2012-01-01

Pyrazinamidase of Mycobacterium tuberculosis catalyzes the conversion of pyrazinamide to the active molecule pyrazinoic acid. Reduction of pyrazinamidase activity results in a level of pyrazinamide resistance. Previous studies have suggested that pyrazinamidase has a metal-binding site and that a divalent metal cofactor is required for activity. To determine the effect of divalent metals on the pyrazinamidase, the recombinant wild-type pyrazinamidase corresponding to the H37Rv pyrazinamide-susceptible reference strain was expressed in Escherichia coli with and without a carboxy terminal. His-tagged pyrazinamidase was inactivated by metal depletion and reactivated by titration with divalent metals. Although Co2+, Mn2+, and Zn2+ restored pyrazinamidase activity, only Co2+ enhanced the enzymatic activity to levels higher than the wild-type pyrazinamidase. Cu2+, Fe2+, Fe3+, and Mg2+ did not restore the activity under the conditions tested. Various recombinant mutated pyrazinamidases with appropriate folding but different enzymatic activities showed a differential pattern of recovered activity. X-ray fluorescence and atomic absorbance spectroscopy showed that recombinant wild-type pyrazinamidase expressed in E. coli most likely contained Zn. In conclusion, this study suggests that M. tuberculosis pyrazinamidase is a metalloenzyme that is able to coordinate several ions, but in vivo, it is more likely to coordinate Zn2+. However, in vitro, the metal-depleted enzyme could be reactivated by several divalent metals with higher efficiency than Zn. PMID:22764307

The carboxy-terminal αN helix of the archaeal XerA tyrosine recombinase is a molecular switch to control site-specific recombination.

PubMed

Serre, Marie-Claude; El Arnaout, Toufic; Brooks, Mark A; Durand, Dominique; Lisboa, Johnny; Lazar, Noureddine; Raynal, Bertrand; van Tilbeurgh, Herman; Quevillon-Cheruel, Sophie

2013-01-01

Tyrosine recombinases are conserved in the three kingdoms of life. Here we present the first crystal structure of a full-length archaeal tyrosine recombinase, XerA from Pyrococcus abyssi, at 3.0 Å resolution. In the absence of DNA substrate XerA crystallizes as a dimer where each monomer displays a tertiary structure similar to that of DNA-bound Tyr-recombinases. Active sites are assembled in the absence of dif except for the catalytic Tyr, which is extruded and located equidistant from each active site within the dimer. Using XerA active site mutants we demonstrate that XerA follows the classical cis-cleavage reaction, suggesting rearrangements of the C-terminal domain upon DNA binding. Surprisingly, XerA C-terminal αN helices dock in cis in a groove that, in bacterial tyrosine recombinases, accommodates in trans αN helices of neighbour monomers in the Holliday junction intermediates. Deletion of the XerA C-terminal αN helix does not impair cleavage of suicide substrates but prevents recombination catalysis. We propose that the enzymatic cycle of XerA involves the switch of the αN helix from cis to trans packing, leading to (i) repositioning of the catalytic Tyr in the active site in cis and (ii) dimer stabilisation via αN contacts in trans between monomers.

Modulation of the functional association between the HIV-1 intasome and the nucleosome by histone amino-terminal tails.

PubMed

Benleulmi, Mohamed S; Matysiak, Julien; Robert, Xavier; Miskey, Csaba; Mauro, Eric; Lapaillerie, Delphine; Lesbats, Paul; Chaignepain, Stéphane; Henriquez, Daniel R; Calmels, Christina; Oladosu, Oyindamola; Thierry, Eloïse; Leon, Oscar; Lavigne, Marc; Andreola, Marie-Line; Delelis, Olivier; Ivics, Zoltán; Ruff, Marc; Gouet, Patrice; Parissi, Vincent

2017-11-28

Stable insertion of the retroviral DNA genome into host chromatin requires the functional association between the intasome (integrase·viral DNA complex) and the nucleosome. The data from the literature suggest that direct protein-protein contacts between integrase and histones may be involved in anchoring the intasome to the nucleosome. Since histone tails are candidates for interactions with the incoming intasomes we have investigated whether they could participate in modulating the nucleosomal integration process. We show here that histone tails are required for an optimal association between HIV-1 integrase (IN) and the nucleosome for efficient integration. We also demonstrate direct interactions between IN and the amino-terminal tail of human histone H4 in vitro. Structure/function studies enabled us to identify amino acids in the carboxy-terminal domain of IN that are important for this interaction. Analysis of the nucleosome-binding properties of catalytically active mutated INs confirmed that their ability to engage the nucleosome for integration in vitro was affected. Pseudovirus particles bearing mutations that affect the IN/H4 association also showed impaired replication capacity due to altered integration and re-targeting of their insertion sites toward dynamic regions of the chromatin with lower nucleosome occupancy. Collectively, our data support a functional association between HIV-1 IN and histone tails that promotes anchoring of the intasome to nucleosomes and optimal integration into chromatin.

Fibronectin is a survival factor for differentiated osteoblasts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Globus, R. K.; Doty, S. B.; Lull, J. C.; Holmuhamedov, E.; Humphries, M. J.; Damsky, C. H.

1998-01-01

The skeletal extracellular matrix produced by osteoblasts contains the glycoprotein fibronectin, which regulates the adhesion, differentiation and function of various adherent cells. Interactions with fibronectin are required for osteoblast differentiation in vitro, since fibronectin antagonists added to cultures of immature fetal calvarial osteoblasts inhibit their progressive differentiation. To determine if fibronectin plays a unique role in fully differentiated osteoblasts, cultures that had already formed mineralized nodules in vitro were treated with fibronectin antagonists. Fibronectin antibodies caused >95% of the cells in the mature cultures to display characteristic features of apoptosis (nuclear condensation, apoptotic body formation, DNA laddering) within 24 hours. Cells appeared to acquire sensitivity to fibronectin antibody-induced apoptosis as a consequence of differentiation, since antibodies failed to kill immature cells and the first cells killed were those associated with mature nodules. Intact plasma fibronectin, as well as fragments corresponding to the amino-terminal, cell-binding, and carboxy-terminal domains of fibronectin, independently induced apoptosis of mature (day-13), but not immature (day-4), osteoblasts. Finally, transforming growth factor-beta1 partially protected cells from the apoptotic effects of fibronectin antagonists. Thus, in the course of maturation cultured osteoblasts switch from depending on fibronectin for differentiation to depending on fibronectin for survival. These data suggest that fibronectin, together with transforming growth factor-beta1, may affect bone formation, in part by regulating the survival of osteoblasts.

SPARC Regulates Transforming Growth Factor Beta Induced (TGFBI) Extracellular Matrix Deposition and Paclitaxel Response in Ovarian Cancer Cells.

PubMed

Tumbarello, David A; Andrews, Melissa R; Brenton, James D

2016-01-01

TGFBI has been shown to sensitize ovarian cancer cells to the cytotoxic effects of paclitaxel via an integrin receptor-mediated mechanism that modulates microtubule stability. Herein, we determine that TGFBI localizes within organized fibrillar structures in mesothelial-derived ECM. We determined that suppression of SPARC expression by shRNA decreased the deposition of TGFBI in mesothelial-derived ECM, without affecting its overall protein expression or secretion. Conversely, overexpression of SPARC increased TGFBI deposition. A SPARC-YFP fusion construct expressed by the Met5a cell line co-localized with TGFBI in the cell-derived ECM. Interestingly, in vitro produced SPARC was capable of precipitating TGFBI from cell lysates dependent on an intact SPARC carboxy-terminus with in vitro binding assays verifying a direct interaction. The last 37 amino acids of SPARC were shown to be required for the TGFBI interaction while expression of a SPARC-YFP construct lacking this region (aa 1-256) did not interact and co-localize with TGFBI in the ECM. Furthermore, ovarian cancer cells have a reduced motility and decreased response to the chemotherapeutic agent paclitaxel when plated on ECM derived from mesothelial cells lacking SPARC compared to control mesothelial-derived ECM. In conclusion, SPARC regulates the fibrillar ECM deposition of TGFBI through a novel interaction, subsequently influencing cancer cell behavior.

SPARC Regulates Transforming Growth Factor Beta Induced (TGFBI) Extracellular Matrix Deposition and Paclitaxel Response in Ovarian Cancer Cells

PubMed Central

Andrews, Melissa R.; Brenton, James D.

2016-01-01

TGFBI has been shown to sensitize ovarian cancer cells to the cytotoxic effects of paclitaxel via an integrin receptor-mediated mechanism that modulates microtubule stability. Herein, we determine that TGFBI localizes within organized fibrillar structures in mesothelial-derived ECM. We determined that suppression of SPARC expression by shRNA decreased the deposition of TGFBI in mesothelial-derived ECM, without affecting its overall protein expression or secretion. Conversely, overexpression of SPARC increased TGFBI deposition. A SPARC-YFP fusion construct expressed by the Met5a cell line co-localized with TGFBI in the cell-derived ECM. Interestingly, in vitro produced SPARC was capable of precipitating TGFBI from cell lysates dependent on an intact SPARC carboxy-terminus with in vitro binding assays verifying a direct interaction. The last 37 amino acids of SPARC were shown to be required for the TGFBI interaction while expression of a SPARC-YFP construct lacking this region (aa 1–256) did not interact and co-localize with TGFBI in the ECM. Furthermore, ovarian cancer cells have a reduced motility and decreased response to the chemotherapeutic agent paclitaxel when plated on ECM derived from mesothelial cells lacking SPARC compared to control mesothelial-derived ECM. In conclusion, SPARC regulates the fibrillar ECM deposition of TGFBI through a novel interaction, subsequently influencing cancer cell behavior. PMID:27622658

Severe hypertriglyceridemia in a patient heterozygous for a lipoprotein lipase gene allele with two novel missense variants.

PubMed

Kassner, Ursula; Salewsky, Bastian; Wühle-Demuth, Marion; Szijarto, Istvan Andras; Grenkowitz, Thomas; Binner, Priska; März, Winfried; Steinhagen-Thiessen, Elisabeth; Demuth, Ilja

2015-09-01

Rare monogenic hyperchylomicronemia is caused by loss-of-function mutations in genes involved in the catabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, including the lipoprotein lipase gene, LPL. Clinical hallmarks of this condition are eruptive xanthomas, recurrent pancreatitis and abdominal pain. Patients with LPL deficiency and severe or recurrent pancreatitis are eligible for the first gene therapy treatment approved by the European Union. Therefore the precise molecular diagnosis of familial hyperchylomicronemia may affect treatment decisions. We present a 57-year-old male patient with excessive hypertriglyceridemia despite intensive lipid-lowering therapy. Abdominal sonography showed signs of chronic pancreatitis. Direct DNA sequencing and cloning revealed two novel missense variants, c.1302A>T and c.1306G>A, in exon 8 of the LPL gene coexisting on the same allele. The variants result in the amino-acid exchanges p.(Lys434Asn) and p.(Gly436Arg). They are located in the carboxy-terminal domain of lipoprotein lipase that interacts with the glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored HDL-binding protein (GPIHBP1) and are likely of functional relevance. No further relevant mutations were found by direct sequencing of the genes for APOA5, APOC2, LMF1 and GPIHBP1. We conclude that heterozygosity for damaging mutations of LPL may be sufficient to produce severe hypertriglyceridemia and that chylomicronemia may be transmitted in a dominant manner, at least in some families.

Severe hypertriglyceridemia in a patient heterozygous for a lipoprotein lipase gene allele with two novel missense variants

PubMed Central

Kassner, Ursula; Salewsky, Bastian; Wühle-Demuth, Marion; Szijarto, Istvan Andras; Grenkowitz, Thomas; Binner, Priska; März, Winfried; Steinhagen-Thiessen, Elisabeth; Demuth, Ilja

2015-01-01

Rare monogenic hyperchylomicronemia is caused by loss-of-function mutations in genes involved in the catabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, including the lipoprotein lipase gene, LPL. Clinical hallmarks of this condition are eruptive xanthomas, recurrent pancreatitis and abdominal pain. Patients with LPL deficiency and severe or recurrent pancreatitis are eligible for the first gene therapy treatment approved by the European Union. Therefore the precise molecular diagnosis of familial hyperchylomicronemia may affect treatment decisions. We present a 57-year-old male patient with excessive hypertriglyceridemia despite intensive lipid-lowering therapy. Abdominal sonography showed signs of chronic pancreatitis. Direct DNA sequencing and cloning revealed two novel missense variants, c.1302A>T and c.1306G>A, in exon 8 of the LPL gene coexisting on the same allele. The variants result in the amino-acid exchanges p.(Lys434Asn) and p.(Gly436Arg). They are located in the carboxy-terminal domain of lipoprotein lipase that interacts with the glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored HDL-binding protein (GPIHBP1) and are likely of functional relevance. No further relevant mutations were found by direct sequencing of the genes for APOA5, APOC2, LMF1 and GPIHBP1. We conclude that heterozygosity for damaging mutations of LPL may be sufficient to produce severe hypertriglyceridemia and that chylomicronemia may be transmitted in a dominant manner, at least in some families. PMID:25585702

Isolation and quantitation of a minor determinant of hen egg white lysozyme bound to I-Ak by using peptide-specific immunoaffinity.

PubMed

Gugasyan, R; Vidavsky, I; Nelson, C A; Gross, M L; Unanue, E R

1998-12-01

We report here the identification and quantitation of a minor epitope from hen egg white lysozyme (HEL) isolated from the class II MHC molecule I-Ak of APCs. We isolated and concentrated the peptides from the I-Ak extracts by a peptide-specific mAba, followed by their examination by electrospray mass spectrometry. This initial step improved the isolation, recovery, and quantitation and allowed us to identify 13 different minor peptides using the Ab specific for the HEL tryptic fragment 34-45. The HEL peptides varied on both the amino and carboxy termini. The shortest peptide was a 13-mer (residues 33-45), and the longest peptide was a 19-mer (residues 31-49). The two most abundant were 31-47 (1.3 pmol) and 31-46 (1 pmol), while the least abundant were 31-45 (40 fmol) and 32-45 (4 fmol). Only 0.3% of the total class II molecules were occupied by this family of HEL peptides. The amount of the 31-47 peptide, the predominant member of this series, was 22 times lower than that of 48-62, the major epitope of HEL. The 31-47 peptide bound about 20-fold weaker to I-Ak compared with the dominant 48-62 peptide. Thus, the lower abundance of the minor epitope correlated with its weaker binding strength.

Expression, purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of the DDX3 RNA helicase domain

PubMed Central

Rodamilans, Bernardo; Montoya, Guillermo

2007-01-01

DDX3 is a human RNA helicase that is involved in RNA processing and important human diseases. This enzyme belongs to the DEAD-box protein family, the members of which are characterized by the presence of nine conserved motifs including the Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp motif that defines the family. DDX3 has two distinct domains: an ATP-binding domain in the central region of the protein and a helicase domain in the carboxy-terminal region. The helicase domain of DDX3 was cloned and overexpressed in Escherichia coli. Crystallization experiments yielded crystals that were suitable for X-ray diffraction analysis. The final crystallization conditions were a reservoir solution consisting of 2 M ammonium sulfate, 0.1 M imidazole pH 6.4 plus 5 mM spermine tetrahydrochloride and a protein solution containing 10 mM HEPES, 500 mM ammonium sulfate pH 8.0. The crystals of the helicase domain belong to the monoclinic space group P21, with unit-cell parameters a = 43.85, b = 60.72, c = 88.39 Å, α = γ = 90, β = 101.02°, and contained three molecules per asymmetric unit. These crystals diffracted to a resolution limit of 2.2 Å using synchrotron radiation at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) and the Swiss Light Source (SLS). PMID:17401195

Expression, purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of the DDX3 RNA helicase domain.

PubMed

Rodamilans, Bernardo; Montoya, Guillermo

2007-04-01

DDX3 is a human RNA helicase that is involved in RNA processing and important human diseases. This enzyme belongs to the DEAD-box protein family, the members of which are characterized by the presence of nine conserved motifs including the Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp motif that defines the family. DDX3 has two distinct domains: an ATP-binding domain in the central region of the protein and a helicase domain in the carboxy-terminal region. The helicase domain of DDX3 was cloned and overexpressed in Escherichia coli. Crystallization experiments yielded crystals that were suitable for X-ray diffraction analysis. The final crystallization conditions were a reservoir solution consisting of 2 M ammonium sulfate, 0.1 M imidazole pH 6.4 plus 5 mM spermine tetrahydrochloride and a protein solution containing 10 mM HEPES, 500 mM ammonium sulfate pH 8.0. The crystals of the helicase domain belong to the monoclinic space group P2(1), with unit-cell parameters a = 43.85, b = 60.72, c = 88.39 A, alpha = gamma = 90, beta = 101.02 degrees , and contained three molecules per asymmetric unit. These crystals diffracted to a resolution limit of 2.2 A using synchrotron radiation at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) and the Swiss Light Source (SLS).

Cloning, sequencing, and expression of the Zymomonas mobilis phosphoglycerate mutase gene (pgm) in Escherichia coli.

PubMed Central

Yomano, L P; Scopes, R K; Ingram, L O

1993-01-01

Phosphoglycerate mutase is an essential glycolytic enzyme for Zymomonas mobilis, catalyzing the reversible interconversion of 3-phosphoglycerate and 2-phosphoglycerate. The pgm gene encoding this enzyme was cloned on a 5.2-kbp DNA fragment and expressed in Escherichia coli. Recombinants were identified by using antibodies directed against purified Z. mobilis phosphoglycerate mutase. The pgm gene contains a canonical ribosome-binding site, a biased pattern of codon usage, a long upstream untranslated region, and four promoters which share sequence homology. Interestingly, adhA and a D-specific 2-hydroxyacid dehydrogenase were found on the same DNA fragment and appear to form a cluster of genes which function in central metabolism. The translated sequence for Z. mobilis pgm was in full agreement with the 40 N-terminal amino acid residues determined by protein sequencing. The primary structure of the translated sequence is highly conserved (52 to 60% identity with other phosphoglycerate mutases) and also shares extensive homology with bisphosphoglycerate mutases (51 to 59% identity). Since Southern blots indicated the presence of only a single copy of pgm in the Z. mobilis chromosome, it is likely that the cloned pgm gene functions to provide both activities. Z. mobilis phosphoglycerate mutase is unusual in that it lacks the flexible tail and lysines at the carboxy terminus which are present in the enzyme isolated from all other organisms examined. Images PMID:8320209

Organic additives stabilize RNA aptamer binding of malachite green.

PubMed

Zhou, Yubin; Chi, Hong; Wu, Yuanyuan; Marks, Robert S; Steele, Terry W J

2016-11-01

Aptamer-ligand binding has been utilized for biological applications due to its specific binding and synthetic nature. However, the applications will be limited if the binding or the ligand is unstable. Malachite green aptamer (MGA) and its labile ligand malachite green (MG) were found to have increasing apparent dissociation constants (Kd) as determined through the first order rate loss of emission intensity of the MGA-MG fluorescent complex. The fluorescent intensity loss was hypothesized to be from the hydrolysis of MG into malachite green carbinol base (MGOH). Random screening organic additives were found to reduce or retain the fluorescence emission and the calculated apparent Kd of MGA-MG binding. The protective effect became more apparent as the percentage of organic additives increased up to 10% v/v. The mechanism behind the organic additive protective effects was primarily from a ~5X increase in first order rate kinetics of MGOH→MG (kMGOH→MG), which significantly changed the equilibrium constant (Keq), favoring the generation of MG, versus MGOH without organic additives. A simple way has been developed to stabilize the apparent Kd of MGA-MG binding over 24h, which may be beneficial in stabilizing other triphenylmethane or carbocation ligand-aptamer interactions that are susceptible to SN1 hydrolysis. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Association of 3BP2 with SHP-1 regulates SHP-1-mediated production of TNF-α in RBL-2H3 cells.

PubMed

Chihara, Kazuyasu; Nakashima, Kenji; Takeuchi, Kenji; Sada, Kiyonao

2011-12-01

Adaptor protein 3BP2, a c-Abl Src homology 3 (SH3) domain-binding protein, is tyrosine phosphorylated and positively regulates mast cell signal transduction after the aggregation of the high affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI). Overexpression of the Src homology 2 (SH2) domain of 3BP2 results in the dramatic suppression of antigen-induced degranulation in rat basophilic leukemia RBL-2H3 cells. Previously, a linker for activation of T cells (LAT) was identified as one of the 3BP2 SH2 domain-binding protein. In this report, to further understand the functions of 3BP2 in FcεRI-mediated activation of mast cell, we explored the protein that associates with the SH2 domain of 3BP2 and found that SH2 domain-containing phosphatase-1 (SHP-1) inducibly interacts with the SH2 domain of 3BP2 after the aggregation of FcεRI. The phosphorylation of Tyr(564) in the carboxy (C)-terminal tail region of SHP-1 is required for the direct interaction of SHP-1 to the SH2 domain of 3BP2. The expression of the mutant form of SHP-1 which was unable to interact with 3BP2 resulted in the significant reduction in SHP-1-mediated tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) production without any effects on the degranulation in antigen-stimulated RBL-2H3 cells. These findings suggest that 3BP2 directly interacts with Tyr(564) -phosphorylated form of SHP-1 and positively regulates the function of SHP-1 in FcεRI-mediated signaling in mast cells. © 2011 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2011 by the Molecular Biology Society of Japan/Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Interaction of fluvastatin with the liver-specific Na+ -dependent taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP).

PubMed

Greupink, Rick; Dillen, Lieve; Monshouwer, Mario; Huisman, Maarten T; Russel, Frans G M

2011-11-20

It has been reported that polymorphisms in the organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B1 (OATP1B1, SLCO1B1) result in decreased hepatic uptake of simvastatin carboxy acid, the active metabolite of simvastatin. This is not the case for fluvastatin and it has been hypothesized that for this drug other hepatic uptake pathways exist. Here, we studied whether Na(+)-dependent taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP, SLC10A1) can be an alternative hepatic uptake route for fluvastatin. Chinese Hamster Ovary cells transfected with human NTCP (CHO-NTCP) were used to investigate the inhibitory effect of fluvastatin and other statins on [(3)H]-taurocholic acid uptake ([(3)H]-TCA). Statin uptake by CHO-NTCP and cryopreserved human hepatocytes was assessed via LC-MS/MS. Fluvastatin appeared to be a potent and competitive inhibitor of [(3)H]-TCA uptake (IC(50) of 40μM), pointing to an interaction at the level of the bile acid binding pocket of NTCP. The inhibitory action of other statins was also studied, which revealed that statin inhibitory potency increased with molecular descriptors of lipophilicity: calculated logP (r(2)=0.82, p=0.034), logD(7.4) (r(2)=0.77, p=0.0001). Studies in CHO-NTCP cells showed that fluvastatin was indeed an NTCP substrate (K(m) 250±30μM, V(max) 1340±50ng/mg total cell protein/min). However, subsequent studies revealed that at clinically relevant plasma concentrations, NTCP contributed minimally to overall accumulation in human hepatocytes. In conclusion, fluvastatin interacts with NTCP at the level of the bile acid binding pocket and is an NTCP substrate. However, under normal conditions, NTCP-mediated uptake of this drug seems not to be a significant hepatocellular uptake pathway. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Display of Passenger Proteins on the Surface of Escherichia coli K-12 by the Enterohemorrhagic E. coli Intimin EaeA

PubMed Central

Wentzel, Alexander; Christmann, Andreas; Adams, Thorsten; Kolmar, Harald

2001-01-01

Intimins are members of a family of bacterial adhesins from pathogenic Escherichia coli which specifically interact with diverse eukaryotic cell surface receptors. The EaeA intimin from enterohemorrhagic E. coli O157:H7 contains an N-terminal transporter domain, which resides in the bacterial outer membrane and promotes the translocation of four C-terminally attached passenger domains across the bacterial cell envelope. We investigated whether truncated EaeA intimin lacking two carboxy-terminal domains could be used as a translocator for heterologous passenger proteins. We found that a variant of the trypsin inhibitor Ecballium elaterium trypsin inhibitor II (EETI-II), interleukin 4, and the Bence-Jones protein REIv were displayed on the surface of E. coli K-12 via fusion to truncated intimin. Fusion protein net accumulation in the outer membrane could be regulated over a broad range by varying the cellular amount of suppressor tRNA that is necessary for translational readthrough at an amber codon residing within the truncated eaeA gene. Intimin-mediated adhesion of the bacterial cells to eukaryotic target cells could be mimicked by surface display of a short fibrinogen receptor binding peptide containing an arginine-glycine-aspartic acid sequence motif, which promoted binding of E. coli K-12 to human platelets. Cells displaying a particular epitope sequence fused to truncated intimin could be enriched 200,000-fold by immunofluorescence staining and fluorescence-activated cell sorting in three sorting rounds. These results demonstrate that truncated intimin can be used as an anchor protein that mediates the translocation of various passenger proteins through the cytoplasmic and outer membranes of E. coli and their exposure on the cell surface. Intimin display may prove a useful tool for future protein translocation studies with interesting biological and biotechnological ramifications. PMID:11717287

Novel two-component transmembrane transcription control: regulation of iron dicitrate transport in Escherichia coli K-12.

PubMed

Van Hove, B; Staudenmaier, H; Braun, V

1990-12-01

Citrate and iron have to enter only the periplasmic space in order to induce the citrate-dependent iron(III) transport system of Escherichia coli. The five transport genes fecABCDE form an operon and are transcribed from fecA to fecE. Two genes, termed fecI and fecR, that mediate induction by iron(III) dicitrate have been identified upstream of fecA. The fecI gene encodes a protein of 173 amino acids (molecular weight, 19,478); the fecR gene encodes a protein of 317 amino acids (molecular weight, 35,529). Chromosomal fecI::Mu d1 mutants were unable to grow with iron(III) dicitrate as the sole iron source and synthesized no FecA outer membrane receptor protein. Growth was restored by transformation with plasmids encoding fecI or fecI and fecR. FecA and beta-galactosidase syntheses under transcription control of the fecB gene (fecB::Mu d1) were constitutive in fecI transformants and were regulated by iron(III) dicitrate in fecI fecR transformants. The amino acid sequence of the FecI protein contains a region close to the carboxy-terminal end for which a helix-turn-helix motif is predicted, which is typical for DNA-binding regulatory proteins. The FecI protein was found in the membrane, and the FecR protein was found in the periplasmic fraction. It is proposed that the FecR protein is the sensor that recognizes iron(III) dicitrate in the periplasm. The FecI protein activates fec gene expression by binding to the fec operator region. In the absence of citrate, FecR inactivates FecI. The lack of sequence homologies to other transmembrane signaling proteins and the location of the two proteins suggest a new type of transmembrane control mechanism.

Multimechanistic Monoclonal Antibodies (MAbs) Targeting Staphylococcus aureus Alpha-Toxin and Clumping Factor A: Activity and Efficacy Comparisons of a MAb Combination and an Engineered Bispecific Antibody Approach.

PubMed

Tkaczyk, C; Kasturirangan, S; Minola, A; Jones-Nelson, O; Gunter, V; Shi, Y Y; Rosenthal, K; Aleti, V; Semenova, E; Warrener, P; Tabor, D; Stover, C K; Corti, D; Rainey, G; Sellman, B R

2017-08-01

Secreted alpha-toxin and surface-localized clumping factor A (ClfA) are key virulence determinants in Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections. We previously demonstrated that prophylaxis with a multimechanistic monoclonal antibody (MAb) combination against alpha-toxin (MEDI4893*) and ClfA (11H10) provided greater strain coverage and improved efficacy in an S. aureus lethal bacteremia model. Subsequently, 11H10 was found to exhibit reduced affinity and impaired inhibition of fibrinogen binding to ClfA002 expressed by members of a predominant hospital-associated methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) clone, ST5. Consequently, we identified another anti-ClfA MAb (SAR114) from human tonsillar B cells with >100-fold increased affinity for three prominent ClfA variants, including ClfA002, and potent inhibition of bacterial agglutination by 112 diverse clinical isolates. We next constructed bispecific Abs (BiSAbs) comprised of 11H10 or SAR114 as IgG scaffolds and grafted anti-alpha-toxin (MEDI4893*) single-chain variable fragment to the amino or carboxy terminus of the anti-ClfA heavy chains. Although the BiSAbs exhibited in vitro potencies similar to those of the parental MAbs, only 11H10-BiSAb, but not SAR114-BiSAb, showed protective activity in murine infection models comparable to the respective MAb combination. In vivo activity with SAR114-BiSAb was observed in infection models with S. aureus lacking ClfA. Our data suggest that high-affinity binding to ClfA sequesters the SAR114-BiSAb to the bacterial surface, thereby reducing both alpha-toxin neutralization and protection in vivo These results indicate that a MAb combination targeting ClfA and alpha-toxin is more promising for future development than the corresponding BiSAb. Copyright © 2017 Tkaczyk et al.

[Influence of liquid ceramic additive on binding of heavy metal during the vitrification of fly ash from municipal solid waste incinerator].

PubMed

Li, Run-dong; Nie, Yong-feng; Li, Ai-min; Wang, Lei; Chi, Yong; Cen, Ke-fa

2004-09-01

Vitrification process can effectively control the leachability of heavy metals in fly ash generated from municipal solid waste incinerator (MWSI). The use of liquid ceramic (LC) additive as a heavy metal chemical stabilization agent was evaluated for MSWI fly ash. The residuals of chromium, lead and zinc in slag increase by different degree with liquid ceramic additive at 1400 degrees C, while those of cadmium and copper decreases. The migrating characteristic of nickel is hardly affected by the additive less than 10%. The volatilization of Cr and Zn occurs after 61 minute with 10% addition of LC, and the binding efficiency of Cr decreases with increasing of melting temperature. The results indicate that the binding efficiency of heavy metals was affected greatly by LC additive and showed significant differences according to type of heavy metal during melting process. The short melting time (no longer than 33 min) is useful to obtain high binding efficiency of heavy metals.

Differences between high-affinity forskolin binding sites in dopamine-riche and other regions of rat brain

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Poat, J.A.; Cripps, H.E.; Iversen, L.L.

1988-05-01

Forskolin labelled with (/sup 3/H) bound to high- and low-affinity sites in the rat brain. The high-affinity site was discretely located, with highest densities in the striatum, nucleus accumbens, olfactory tubercule, substantia nigra, hippocampus, and the molecular layers of the cerebellum. This site did not correlate well with the distribution of adenylate cyclase. The high-affinity striatal binding site may be associated with a stimulatory guanine nucleotide-binding protein. Thus, the number of sites was increased by the addition of Mg/sup 2 +/ and guanylyl imidodiphosphate. Cholera toxin stereotaxically injected into rat striatum increased the number of binding sites, and no furthermore » increase was noted following the subsequent addition of guanyl nucleotide. High-affinity forskolin binding sites in non-dopamine-rich brain areas (hippocampus and cerebullum) were modulated in a qualitatively different manner by guanyl nucleotides. In these areas the number of binding sites was significantly reduced by the addition of guanyl nucleotide. These results suggest that forskolin may have a potential role in identifying different functional/structural guanine nucleotide-binding proteins.« less

Crystal structure of coelenterazine-binding protein from Renilla muelleri at 1.7 A: why it is not a calcium-regulated photoprotein.

PubMed

Stepanyuk, Galina A; Liu, Zhi-Jie; Markova, Svetlana S; Frank, Ludmila A; Lee, John; Vysotski, Eugene S; Wang, Bi-Cheng

2008-04-01

Bioluminescence in the sea pansy Renilla involves two distinct proteins, a Ca2+-triggered coelenterazine-binding protein (CBP), and Renilla luciferase. CBP contains one tightly bound coelenterazine molecule, which becomes available for reaction with luciferase and O2 only subsequent to Ca2+ binding. CBP belongs to the EF-hand superfamily of Ca2+-binding proteins and contains three "EF-hand" Ca2+-binding sites. The overall spatial structure of recombinant selenomethionine-labeled CBP determined at 1.7 A, is found to approximate the protein scaffold characteristic of the class of Ca2+-regulated photoproteins. Photoproteins however, catalyze molecular oxygen addition to coelenterazine producing a 2-hydroperoxycoelenterazine intermediate, which is stabilized within the binding cavity in the absence of Ca2+. Addition of Ca2+ triggers the bioluminescence reaction. However in CBP this first step of oxygen addition is not allowed. The different amino acid environments and hydrogen bond interactions within the binding cavity, are proposed to account for the different properties of the two classes of proteins.

Minimized virus binding for tests of barrier materials.

PubMed Central

Lytle, C D; Routson, L B

1995-01-01

Viruses are used to test the barrier properties of materials. Binding of virus particles during passage through holes in the material may yield misleading test results. The choices of challenge virus and suspending medium may be important for minimizing confounding effects that might arise from such binding. In this study, different surrogate viruses, as well as different support media, were evaluated to determine optimal test parameters. Two membranes with high-binding properties (nitrocellulose and cationic polysulfone) were used as filters to compare binding activities of different surrogate challenge viruses (MS2, phi X174, T7, PRD1, and phi 6) in different media. The media consisted of buffered saline with surfactants, serum, or culture broth as additives. In addition, elution rates of viruses that bound to the membranes were determined. The results suggest that viruses can bind by hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions, with phi X174 displaying the lowest level of binding by either process. The nonionic detergents Triton X-100 and Tween 80 (0.1%) equally minimized hydrophobic interactions. Neither anionic nor cationic surfactants were as effective at nontoxic levels. Serum was effective at reducing both hydrophobic and electrostatic binding, with 2% being sufficient for eliminating binding under our test conditions. Thus, phi X174 remains the best choice as a surrogate virus to test barrier materials, and Triton X-100 (0.1%) remains a good choice for reducing hydrophobic binding. In addition, binding of viruses by barrier materials is unlikely to prevent passage of blood-borne pathogens. PMID:7574603

Gabapentinium picrate.

PubMed

Li, Hongqi; Yathirajan, H S; Mallesha, L; Mohana, K N; Narayana, B

2009-03-19

The title compound {systematic name: [1-(carboxy-meth-yl)cyclo-hexyl]methanaminium 2,4,6-trinitro-phenolate}, C(9)H(18)NO(2) (+)·C(6)H(2)N(3)O(7) (-), was synthesized from picric acid and gabapentin. The crystal packing is stabilized by intra-molecular N-H⋯O=N and N-H⋯O-Ph hydrogen bonds. An O-H⋯O inter-action is also present.

INVESTIGATIONS ON THE ANTIGENICITY OF SNAKE VENOMS

DTIC Science & Technology

The chemical composition of viperotoxin, the neurotoxic protein isolated from the venom of Vipera palestinae has been determined. Viperotoxin is...carboxy-terminal position of the viperotoxin chain. Vipera palestinae hemorrhagin has been purified and isolated. Further tests have established that...active sites, or selective blocking of a part of one active center having two distinct biological activities. Purified neurotoxin of V. palestinae

Phthalate Metabolites, Consumer Habits and Health Effects

PubMed Central

Wallner, Peter; Kundi, Michael; Hohenblum, Philipp; Scharf, Sigrid; Hutter, Hans-Peter

2016-01-01

Phthalates are multifunctional chemicals used in a wide variety of consumer products. The aim of this study was to investigate whether levels of urinary phthalate metabolites in urine samples of Austrian mothers and their children were associated with consumer habits and health indicators. Within an Austrian biomonitoring survey, urine samples from 50 mother-child pairs of five communities (two-stage random stratified sampling) were analysed. The concentrations of 14 phthalate metabolites were determined, and a questionnaire was administered. Monoethyl phthalate (MEP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP), mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (5OH-MEHP), mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (5oxo-MEHP), mono-(5-carboxy-2-ethylpentyl) phthalate (5cx-MEPP), and 3-carboxy-mono-propyl phthalate (3cx-MPP) could be quantified in the majority of samples. Significant correlations were found between the use of hair mousse, hair dye, makeup, chewing gum, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and the diethyl phthalate (DEP) metabolite MEP. With regard to health effects, significant associations of MEP in urine with headache, repeated coughing, diarrhoea, and hormonal problems were observed. MBzP was associated with repeated coughing and MEHP was associated with itching. PMID:27428989

Serum markers of bone metabolism show bone loss in hibernating bears

USGS Publications Warehouse

Donahue, S.W.; Vaughan, M.R.; Demers, L.M.; Donahue, H.J.

2003-01-01

Disuse osteopenia was studied in hibernating black bears (Ursus americanus) using serum markers of bone metabolism. Blood samples were collected from male and female, wild black bears during winter denning and active summer periods. Radioimmunoassays were done to determine serum concentrations of cortisol, the carboxy-terminal cross-linked telopeptide, and the carboxy-terminal propeptide of Type I procollagen, which are markers of hone resorption and formation, respectively. The bone resorption marker was significantly higher during winter hibernation than it was in the active summer months, but the bone formation marker was unchanged, suggesting an imbalance in bone remodeling and a net bone loss during disuse. Serum cortisol was significantly correlated with the bone resorption marker, but not with the bone formation marker. The bone formation marker was four- to fivefold higher in an adolescent and a 17-year-old bear early in the remobilization period compared with the later summer months. These findings raise the possibility that hibernating black bears may minimize bone loss during disuse by maintaining osteoblastic function and have a more efficient compensatory mechanism for recovering immobilization-induced bone loss than that of humans or other animals.

The Expression and Significance of Neuronal Iconic Proteins in Podocytes

PubMed Central

Sun, Yu; Zhang, Hongxia; Hu, Ruimin; Sun, Jianyong; Mao, Xing; Zhao, Zhonghua; Chen, Qi; Zhang, Zhigang

2014-01-01

Growing evidence suggests that there are many common cell biological features shared by neurons and podocytes; however, the mechanism of podocyte foot process formation remains unclear. Comparing the mechanisms of process formation between two cell types should provide useful guidance from the progress of neuron research. Studies have shown that some mature proteins of podocytes, such as podocin, nephrin, and synaptopodin, were also expressed in neurons. In this study, using cell biological experiments and immunohistochemical techniques, we showed that some neuronal iconic molecules, such as Neuron-specific enolase, nestin and Neuron-specific nuclear protein, were also expressed in podocytes. We further inhibited the expression of Neuron-specific enolase, nestin, synaptopodin and Ubiquitin carboxy terminal hydrolase-1 by Small interfering RNA in cultured mouse podocytes and observed the significant morphological changes in treated podocytes. When podocytes were treated with Adriamycin, the protein expression of Neuron-specific enolase, nestin, synaptopodin and Ubiquitin carboxy terminal hydrolase-1 decreased over time. Meanwhile, the morphological changes in the podocytes were consistent with results of the Small interfering RNA treatment of these proteins. The data demonstrated that neuronal iconic proteins play important roles in maintaining and regulating the formation and function of podocyte processes. PMID:24699703

Carboxy-terminal truncation activates glp-1 protein to specify vulval fates in Caenorhabditis elegans.

PubMed

Mango, S E; Maine, E M; Kimble, J

1991-08-29

The glp-1 and lin-12 genes encode homologous transmembrane proteins that may act as receptors for cell interactions during development. The glp-1 product is required for induction of germ-line proliferation and for embryogenesis. By contrast, lin-12 mediates somatic cell interactions, including those between the precursor cells that form the vulval hypodermis (VPCs). Here we analyse an unusual allele of glp-1, glp-1(q35), which displays a semidominant multivulva phenotype (Muv), as well as the typical recessive, loss-of-function Glp phenotypes (sterility and embryonic lethality). We find that the effects of glp-1(q35) on VPC development mimic those of dominant lin-12 mutations, even in the absence of lin-12 activity. The glp-1(q35) gene bears a nonsense mutation predicted to eliminate the 122 C-terminal amino acids, including a ProGluSerThr (PEST) sequence thought to destabilize proteins. We suggest that the carboxy terminus bears a negative regulatory domain which normally inactivates glp-1 in the VPCs. We propose that inappropriate glp-1(q35) activity can substitute for lin-12 to determine vulval fate, perhaps by driving the VPCs to proliferate.

A conserved carboxy-terminal domain in the major tegument structural protein VP22 facilitates virion packaging of a chimeric protein during productive herpes simplex virus 1 infection

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schlegel, Elisabeth F.M.; Blaho, John A., E-mail: john.blaho@mssm.ed

2009-05-10

Recombinant virus HSV-1(RF177) was previously generated to examine tegument protein VP22 function by inserting the GFP gene into the gene encoding VP22. During a detailed analysis of this virus, we discovered that RF177 produces a novel fusion protein between the last 15 amino acids of VP22 and GFP, termed GCT-VP22. Thus, the VP22 carboxy-terminal specific antibody 22-3 and two anti-GFP antibodies reacted with an approximately 28 kDa protein from RF177-infected Vero cells. GCT-VP22 was detected at 1 and 3 hpi. Examination of purified virions indicated that GCT-VP22 was incorporated into RF177 virus particles. These observations imply that at least amore » portion of the information required for virion targeting is located in this domain of VP22. Indirect immunofluorescence analyses showed that GCT-VP22 also localized to areas of marginalized chromatin during RF177 infection. These results indicate that the last fifteen amino acids of VP22 participate in virion targeting during HSV-1 infection.« less

Phthalate Metabolites, Consumer Habits and Health Effects.

PubMed

Wallner, Peter; Kundi, Michael; Hohenblum, Philipp; Scharf, Sigrid; Hutter, Hans-Peter

2016-07-15

Phthalates are multifunctional chemicals used in a wide variety of consumer products. The aim of this study was to investigate whether levels of urinary phthalate metabolites in urine samples of Austrian mothers and their children were associated with consumer habits and health indicators. Within an Austrian biomonitoring survey, urine samples from 50 mother-child pairs of five communities (two-stage random stratified sampling) were analysed. The concentrations of 14 phthalate metabolites were determined, and a questionnaire was administered. Monoethyl phthalate (MEP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP), mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (5OH-MEHP), mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (5oxo-MEHP), mono-(5-carboxy-2-ethylpentyl) phthalate (5cx-MEPP), and 3-carboxy-mono-propyl phthalate (3cx-MPP) could be quantified in the majority of samples. Significant correlations were found between the use of hair mousse, hair dye, makeup, chewing gum, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and the diethyl phthalate (DEP) metabolite MEP. With regard to health effects, significant associations of MEP in urine with headache, repeated coughing, diarrhoea, and hormonal problems were observed. MBzP was associated with repeated coughing and MEHP was associated with itching.

The terminal portion of leptospiral immunoglobulin-like protein LigA confers protective immunity against lethal infection in the hamster model of leptospirosis

PubMed Central

Silva, Éverton F.; Medeiros, Marco A.; McBride, Alan J. A.; Matsunaga, Jim; Esteves, Gabriela S.; Ramos, João G. R.; Santos, Cleiton S.; Croda, Júlio; Homma, Akira; Dellagostin, Odir A.; Haake, David A.; Reis, Mitermayer G.; Ko, Albert I.

2007-01-01

Subunit vaccines are a potential intervention strategy against leptospirosis, which is a major public health problem in developing countries and a veterinary disease in livestock and companion animals worldwide. Leptospiral immunoglobulin-like (Lig) proteins are a family of surface-exposed determinants that have Ig-like repeat domains found in virulence factors such as intimin and invasin. We expressed fragments of the repeat domain regions of LigA and LigB from Leptospira interrogans serovar Copenhageni. Immunization of Golden Syrian hamsters with Lig fragments in Freund’s adjuvant induced robust antibody responses against recombinant protein and native protein, as detected by ELISA and immunoblot, respectively. A single fragment, LigANI, which corresponds to the six carboxy-terminal Ig-like repeat domains of the LigA molecule, conferred immunoprotection against mortality (67-100%, P <0.05) in hamsters which received a lethal inoculum of L. interrogans serovar Copenhageni. However, immunization with this fragment did not confer sterilizing immunity. These findings indicate that the carboxy-terminal portion of LigA is an immunoprotective domain and may serve as a vaccine candidate for human and veterinary leptospirosis. PMID:17629368

The terminal portion of leptospiral immunoglobulin-like protein LigA confers protective immunity against lethal infection in the hamster model of leptospirosis.

PubMed

Silva, Everton F; Medeiros, Marco A; McBride, Alan J A; Matsunaga, Jim; Esteves, Gabriela S; Ramos, João G R; Santos, Cleiton S; Croda, Júlio; Homma, Akira; Dellagostin, Odir A; Haake, David A; Reis, Mitermayer G; Ko, Albert I

2007-08-14

Subunit vaccines are a potential intervention strategy against leptospirosis, which is a major public health problem in developing countries and a veterinary disease in livestock and companion animals worldwide. Leptospiral immunoglobulin-like (Lig) proteins are a family of surface-exposed determinants that have Ig-like repeat domains found in virulence factors such as intimin and invasin. We expressed fragments of the repeat domain regions of LigA and LigB from Leptospira interrogans serovar Copenhageni. Immunization of Golden Syrian hamsters with Lig fragments in Freund's adjuvant induced robust antibody responses against recombinant protein and native protein, as detected by ELISA and immunoblot, respectively. A single fragment, LigANI, which corresponds to the six carboxy-terminal Ig-like repeat domains of the LigA molecule, conferred immunoprotection against mortality (67-100%, P<0.05) in hamsters which received a lethal inoculum of L. interrogans serovar Copenhageni. However, immunization with this fragment did not confer sterilizing immunity. These findings indicate that the carboxy-terminal portion of LigA is an immunoprotective domain and may serve as a vaccine candidate for human and veterinary leptospirosis.

Structural characterization of a glucuronoarabinoxylan from pineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) Merrill) gum exudate.

PubMed

Simas-Tosin, Fernanda F; de Souza, Lauro M; Wagner, Ricardo; Pereira, Graciele C Z; Barraza, Ruth R; Wendel, Cinthia F; Sassaki, Guilherme L; Iacomini, Marcello; Gorin, Philip A J

2013-04-15

Native polysaccharide from pineapple gum (PANP) was obtained following alkaline extraction of gum and fractionation with cetylpyridinium chloride. It was characterized as a glucuronoarabinoxylan using NMR, methylation data, controlled Smith degradation, carboxy-reduction, and ESI-MS of oligosaccharides produced on mild acid hydrolysis of PANP. HSPEC-MALLS-RI of carboxy-reduced fraction showed homogeneous profile (Mw 1.943×10(5) g/mol). PANP was composed of Ara, Xyl, Gal, and GlcpA (40:23:7:30 molar ratio). Its main chain presented (1→4)-linked β-xylan, highly substituted at O-2 and O-3 by side chains of 3-O- and 3,5-di-O-linked α-Araf, 2-O- and 4-O-linked α-GlcpA, and nonreducing end-units of α-Araf, β-Arap, β-Galp, and α-GlcpA. ESI-MS of a mixture of oligosaccharides formed on the mild acid hydrolysis of PANP was consistent with repetitive structures of α-GlcpA O-3 linked at β-Xylp units, whereas in others glucuronoarabinoxylan-type gum exudates, α-GlcpA units had been previously found to be linked at O-2. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Permeability studies of redox-sensitive nitroxyl spin probes in corn oil using an L-band ESR spectrometer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jebaraj, D. David; Utsumi, Hideo; Asath, R. Mohamed

Electron spin resonance (ESR) studies were carried out for 2mM {sup 14}N labeled {sup 2}H enriched 3-methoxycarbonyl-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-pyrrolidine-1-oxyl (MC-PROXYL) and 3–carboxy-2,2,5,5,-tetramethyl-1-pyrrolidinyloxy (carboxy-PROXYL) in pure water and various concentrations of corn oil. The ESR parameters, such as the line width, hyperfine coupling constant, g-factor, rotational correlation time, partition parameter and permeability were reported for the samples. The line width broadening was observed for both nitroxyl radicals in corn oil solutions. The partition parameter for permeable MC-PROXYL in corn oil increases with increasing concentration of corn oil, which reveals that the nitroxyl spin probe permeates into the oil phase. From the results, themore » corn oil concentration was optimized as 50 % for phantom studies. The rotational correlation time also increases with increasing concentration of corn oil. The permeable and impermeable nature of nitroxyl spin probes was demonstrated. These results will be useful for the development of ESR/OMR imaging modalities in in vivo and in vitro studies.« less

Kinetics of phloretin binding to phosphatidylcholine vesicle membranes

PubMed Central

1980-01-01

The submillisecond kinetics for phloretin binding to unilamellar phosphatidylcholine (PC) vesicles was investigated using the temperature-jump technique. Spectrophotometric studies of the equilibrium binding performed at 328 nm demonstrated that phloretin binds to a single set of independent, equivalent sites on the vesicle with a dissociation constant of 8.0 microM and a lipid/site ratio of 4.0. The temperature of the phloretin-vesicle solution was jumped by 4 degrees C within 4 microseconds producing a monoexponential, concentration-dependent relaxation process with time constants in the 30--200-microseconds time range. An analysis of the concentration dependence of relaxation time constants at pH 7.30 and 24 degrees C yielded a binding rate constant of 2.7 X 10(8) M-1 s-1 and an unbinding constant of 2,900 s-1; approximately 66 percent of total binding sites are exposed at the outer vesicle surface. The value of the binding rate constant and three additional observations suggest that the binding kinetics are diffusion limited. The phloretin analogue, naringenin, which has a diffusion coefficient similar to phloretin yet a dissociation constant equal to 24 microM, bound to PC vesicle with the same rate constant as phloretin did. In addition, the phloretin-PC system was studied in buffers made one to six times more viscous than water by addition of sucrose or glycerol to the differ. The equilibrium affinity for phloretin binding to PC vesicles is independent of viscosity, yet the binding rate constant decreases with the expected dependence (kappa binding alpha 1/viscosity) for diffusion-limited processes. Thus, the binding rate constant is not altered by differences in binding affinity, yet depends upon the diffusion coefficient in buffer. Finally, studies of the pH dependence of the binding rate constant showed a dependence (kappa binding alpha [1 + 10pH-pK]) consistent with the diffusion-limited binding of a weak acid. PMID:7391812

Addition of lysophospholipids with large head groups to cells inhibits Shiga toxin binding.

PubMed

Ailte, Ieva; Lingelem, Anne Berit Dyve; Kavaliauskiene, Simona; Bergan, Jonas; Kvalvaag, Audun Sverre; Myrann, Anne-Grethe; Skotland, Tore; Sandvig, Kirsten

2016-07-26

Shiga toxin (Stx), an AB5 toxin, binds specifically to the neutral glycosphingolipid Gb3 at the cell surface before being transported into cells. We here demonstrate that addition of conical lysophospholipids (LPLs) with large head groups inhibit Stx binding to cells whereas LPLs with small head groups do not. Lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI 18:0), the most efficient LPL with the largest head group, was selected for in-depth investigations to study how the binding of Stx is regulated. We show that the inhibition of Stx binding by LPI is reversible and possibly regulated by cholesterol since addition of methyl-β-cyclodextrin (mβCD) reversed the ability of LPI to inhibit binding. LPI-induced inhibition of Stx binding is independent of signalling and membrane turnover as it occurs in fixed cells as well as after depletion of cellular ATP. Furthermore, data obtained with fluorescent membrane dyes suggest that LPI treatment has a direct effect on plasma membrane lipid packing with shift towards a liquid disordered phase in the outer leaflet, while lysophosphoethanolamine (LPE), which has a small head group, does not. In conclusion, our data show that cellular treatment with conical LPLs with large head groups changes intrinsic properties of the plasma membrane and modulates Stx binding to Gb3.

Structural Basis of the Induced-Fit Mechanism of 1,4-Dihydroxy-2-Naphthoyl Coenzyme A Synthase from the Crotonase Fold Superfamily

PubMed Central

Li, Jie; Li, Yan; Jiang, Ming; Zhou, Jiahai; Guo, Zhihong

2013-01-01

1, 4-Dihydroxy-2-naphthoyl coenzyme A (DHNA-CoA) synthase is a typical crotonase fold enzyme with an implicated role of conformational changes in catalysis. We have identified these conformational changes by determining the structures of its Escherichia coli and Synechocystis sp. PCC6803 orthologues in complex with a product analog. The structural changes include the folding of an active-site loop into a β-hairpin and significant reorientation of a helix at the carboxy terminus. Interestingly, a new interface is formed between the ordered loop and the reoriented helix, both of which also form additional interactions with the coenzyme A moiety of the ligand. Site-directed mutation of the amino acid residues involved in these ligand-induced interactions significantly diminishes the enzyme activity. These results suggest a catalytically essential induced-fit that is likely initiated by the enzyme-ligand interactions at the active site. PMID:23658663

Urinary biomarkers of smokers’ exposure to tobacco smoke constituents in tobacco products assessment: a fit for purpose approach

PubMed Central

Gregg, Evan O.; Minet, Emmanuel

2013-01-01

There are established guidelines for bioanalytical assay validation and qualification of biomarkers. In this review, they were applied to a panel of urinary biomarkers of tobacco smoke exposure as part of a “fit for purpose” approach to the assessment of smoke constituents exposure in groups of tobacco product smokers. Clinical studies have allowed the identification of a group of tobacco exposure biomarkers demonstrating a good doseresponse relationship whilst others such as dihydroxybutyl mercapturic acid and 2-carboxy-1-methylethylmercapturic acid – did not reproducibly discriminate smokers and non-smokers. Furthermore, there are currently no agreed common reference standards to measure absolute concentrations and few inter-laboratory trials have been performed to establish consensus values for interim standards. Thus, we also discuss in this review additional requirements for the generation of robust data on urinary biomarkers, including toxicant metabolism and disposition, method validation and qualification for use in tobacco products comparison studies. PMID:23902266

Construction of an agglutination tool: recombinant Fab fragments biotinylated in vitro.

PubMed

Czerwinski, Marcin; Krop-Watorek, Anna; Wasniowska, Kazimiera; Smolarek, Dorota; Spitalnik, Steven L

2009-11-30

The pComb3H vector system is used for constructing and panning recombinant antibody libraries. It allows for expression of monovalent Fab fragments, either on the surface of M13 phage, or in the form of soluble proteins secreted into the periplasmic space of bacteria. We constructed a modified pComb3H vector containing cDNA encoding for a 23-amino acid fragment of the Escherichia coli biotin carboxy carrier protein (BCCP), which is an acceptor sequence for biotinylation. The vector was used to express the Fab fragment recognizing human glycophorin A. The purified Fab fragment containing this biotin acceptor sequence was effectively biotinylated in vitro using biotin ligase (BirA). The specificity and avidity of the biotinylated Fab fragments were similar to the previously produced, unmodified Fab fragments. An avidin-alkaline phosphatase conjugate was used to detect the recombinant Fab fragments, instead of secondary antibody. In addition, when biotinylated Fab fragments were mixed with avidin, red blood cells were directly agglutinated.

A single splice site mutation in human-specific ARHGAP11B causes basal progenitor amplification

PubMed Central

Florio, Marta; Namba, Takashi; Pääbo, Svante; Hiller, Michael; Huttner, Wieland B.

2016-01-01

The gene ARHGAP11B promotes basal progenitor amplification and is implicated in neocortex expansion. It arose on the human evolutionary lineage by partial duplication of ARHGAP11A, which encodes a Rho guanosine triphosphatase–activating protein (RhoGAP). However, a lack of 55 nucleotides in ARHGAP11B mRNA leads to loss of RhoGAP activity by GAP domain truncation and addition of a human-specific carboxy-terminal amino acid sequence. We show that these 55 nucleotides are deleted by mRNA splicing due to a single C→G substitution that creates a novel splice donor site. We reconstructed an ancestral ARHGAP11B complementary DNA without this substitution. Ancestral ARHGAP11B exhibits RhoGAP activity but has no ability to increase basal progenitors during neocortex development. Hence, a single nucleotide substitution underlies the specific properties of ARHGAP11B that likely contributed to the evolutionary expansion of the human neocortex. PMID:27957544

Computational Design of Thermostabilizing d-Amino Acid Substitutions

PubMed Central

Rodriguez-Granillo, Agustina; Annavarapu, Srinivas; Zhang, Lei; Koder, Ronald L.; Nanda, Vikas

2012-01-01

Judicious incorporation of d-amino acids in engineered proteins confer many advantages such as preventing degradation by endogenous proteases, and designing novel structures and functions not accessible to homochiral polypeptides. Glycine to d-alanine substitutions at the carboxy-termini can stabilize α-helices by reducing conformational entropy. Beyond alanine, we propose additional side chain effects on the degree of stabilization conferred by d-amino acid substitutions. A detailed, molecular understanding of backbone and side chain interactions is important for developing rational, broadly applicable strategies in using d-amino acids to increase protein thermostability. Insight from structural bioinformatics combined with computational protein design can successfully guide the selection of stabilizing d-amino acid mutations. Substituting a key glycine in the Trp-Cage mini-protein with d-Gln dramatically stabilizes the fold without altering the protein backbone. Stabilities of individual substitutions can be understood in terms of the balance of intramolecular forces at both the α-helix C-terminus and throughout the protein. PMID:21978298

Rap Phosphatase of Virulence Plasmid pXO1 Inhibits Bacillus anthracis Sporulation†

PubMed Central

Bongiorni, Cristina; Stoessel, Ricarda; Shoemaker, Dorinda; Perego, Marta

2006-01-01

This study shows that the Bacillus anthracis pXO1 virulence plasmid carries a Rap-Phr system, BXA0205, which regulates sporulation initiation in this organism. The BXA0205Rap protein was shown to dephosphorylate the Spo0F response regulator intermediate of the phosphorelay signal transduction system that regulates the initiation of the developmental pathway in response to environmental, metabolic, and cell cycle signals. The activity of the Rap protein was shown to be inhibited by the carboxy-terminal pentapeptide generated through an export-import processing pathway from the associated BXA0205Phr protein. Deregulation of the Rap activity by either overexpression or lack of the Phr pentapeptide resulted in severe inhibition of sporulation. Five additional Rap-Phr encoding systems were identified on the chromosome of B. anthracis, one of which, BA3790-3791, also affected sporulation initiation. The results suggest that the plasmid-borne Rap-Phr system may provide a selective advantage to the virulence of B. anthracis. PMID:16385039

Rap phosphatase of virulence plasmid pXO1 inhibits Bacillus anthracis sporulation.

PubMed

Bongiorni, Cristina; Stoessel, Ricarda; Shoemaker, Dorinda; Perego, Marta

2006-01-01

This study shows that the Bacillus anthracis pXO1 virulence plasmid carries a Rap-Phr system, BXA0205, which regulates sporulation initiation in this organism. The BXA0205Rap protein was shown to dephosphorylate the Spo0F response regulator intermediate of the phosphorelay signal transduction system that regulates the initiation of the developmental pathway in response to environmental, metabolic, and cell cycle signals. The activity of the Rap protein was shown to be inhibited by the carboxy-terminal pentapeptide generated through an export-import processing pathway from the associated BXA0205Phr protein. Deregulation of the Rap activity by either overexpression or lack of the Phr pentapeptide resulted in severe inhibition of sporulation. Five additional Rap-Phr encoding systems were identified on the chromosome of B. anthracis, one of which, BA3790-3791, also affected sporulation initiation. The results suggest that the plasmid-borne Rap-Phr system may provide a selective advantage to the virulence of B. anthracis.

Modification of Cys-418 of pyruvate formate-lyase by methacrylic acid, based on its radical mechanism.

PubMed

Plaga, W; Vielhaber, G; Wallach, J; Knappe, J

2000-01-21

The recently determined crystal structure of pyruvate formate-lyase (PFL) suggested a new view of the mechanism of this glycyl radical enzyme, namely that intermediary thiyl radicals of Cys-418 and Cys-419 participate in different ways [Becker, A. et al. (1999) Nat. Struct. Biol. 6, 969-975]. We report here a suicide reaction of PFL that occurs with the substrate-analog methacrylate with retention of the protein radical (K(I)=0.42 mM, k(i)=0.14 min(-1)). Using [1-(14)C]methacrylate (synthesized via acetone cyanhydrin), the reaction end-product was identified by peptide mapping and cocrystallization experiments as S-(2-carboxy-(2S)-propyl) substituted Cys-418. The stereoselectivity of the observed Michael addition reaction is compatible with a radical mechanism that involves Cys-418 thiyl as nucleophile and Cys-419 as H-atom donor, thus supporting the functional assignments of these catalytic amino acid residues derived from the protein structure.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yi, Jae-Sung; Choo, Hyo-Jung; Cho, Bong-Rae

Lipid rafts are plasma membrane platforms mediating signal transduction pathways for cellular proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Here, we show that membrane fluidity was increased in HeLa cells following treatment with ginsenoside Rh2 (Rh2), as determined by cell staining with carboxy-laurdan (C-laurdan), a two-photon dye designed for measuring membrane hydrophobicity. In the presence of Rh2, caveolin-1 appeared in non-raft fractions after sucrose gradient ultracentrifugation. In addition, caveolin-1 and GM1, lipid raft landmarkers, were internalized within cells after exposure to Rh2, indicating that Rh2 might disrupt lipid rafts. Since cholesterol overloading, which fortifies lipid rafts, prevented an increase in Rh2-induced membrane fluidity,more » caveolin-1 internalization and apoptosis, lipid rafts appear to be essential for Rh2-induced apoptosis. Moreover, Rh2-induced Fas oligomerization was abolished following cholesterol overloading, and Rh2-induced apoptosis was inhibited following treatment with siRNA for Fas. This result suggests that Rh2 is a novel lipid raft disruptor leading to Fas oligomerization and apoptosis.« less

A Noble-Metal-Free Nickel(II) Polypyridyl Catalyst for Visible-Light-Driven Hydrogen Production from Water.

PubMed

Yuan, Yong-Jun; Lu, Hong-Wei; Tu, Ji-Ren; Fang, Yong; Yu, Zhen-Tao; Fan, Xiao-Xing; Zou, Zhi-Gang

2015-10-05

The complex [Ni(bpy)3](2+) (bpy=2,2'-bipyridine) is an active catalyst for visible-light-driven H2 production from water when employed with [Ir(dfppy)2 (Hdcbpy)] [dfppy=2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)pyridine, Hdcbpy=4-carboxy-2,2'-bipyridine-4'-carboxylate] as the photosensitizer and triethanolamine as the sacrificial electron donor. The highest turnover number of 520 with respect to the nickel(II) catalyst is obtained in a 8:2 acetonitrile/water solution at pH 9. The H2 -evolution system is more stable after the addition of an extra free bpy ligand, owing to faster catalyst regeneration. The photocatalytic results demonstrate that the nickel(II) polypyridyl catalyst can act as a more effective catalyst than the commonly utilized [Co(bpy)3 ](2+). This study may offer a new paradigm for constructing simple and noble-metal-free catalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen production. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Chemical structure and anticoagulant activity of highly pyruvylated sulfated galactans from tropical green seaweeds of the order Bryopsidales.

PubMed

Arata, Paula X; Quintana, Irene; Canelón, Dilsia J; Vera, Beatriz E; Compagnone, Reinaldo S; Ciancia, Marina

2015-05-20

Sulfated and pyruvylated galactans were isolated from three tropical species of the Bryopsidales, Penicillus capitatus, Udotea flabellum, and Halimeda opuntia. They represent the only important sulfated polysaccharides present in the cell walls of these highly calcified seaweeds of the suborder Halimedineae. Their structural features were studied by chemical analyses and NMR spectroscopy. Their backbone comprises 3-, 6-, and 3,6-linkages, constituted by major amounts of 3-linked 4,6-O-(1'-carboxy)ethylidene-d-galactopyranose units in part sulfated on C-2. Sulfation on C-2 was not found in galactans from other seaweeds of this order. In addition, a complex sulfation pattern, comprising also 4-, 6-, and 4,6-disulfated galactose units was found. A fraction from P. capitatus, F1, showed a moderate anticoagulant activity, evaluated by general coagulation tests and also kinetics of fibrin formation was assayed. Besides, preliminary results suggest that one of the possible mechanisms involved is direct thrombin inhibition. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Synthesis and biological activity of analogues of the antimicrotubule agent N,beta,beta-trimethyl-L-phenylalanyl-N(1)-[(1S,2E)-3-carboxy-1-isopropylbut-2-enyl]- N(1),3-dimethyl-L-valinamide (HTI-286).

PubMed

Zask, Arie; Birnberg, Gary; Cheung, Katherine; Kaplan, Joshua; Niu, Chuan; Norton, Emily; Suayan, Ronald; Yamashita, Ayako; Cole, Derek; Tang, Zhilian; Krishnamurthy, Girija; Williamson, Robert; Khafizova, Gulnaz; Musto, Sylvia; Hernandez, Richard; Annable, Tami; Yang, Xiaoran; Discafani, Carolyn; Beyer, Carl; Greenberger, Lee M; Loganzo, Frank; Ayral-Kaloustian, Semiramis

2004-09-09

Hemiasterlin, a tripeptide isolated from marine sponges, induces microtubule depolymerization and mitotic arrest in cells. HTI-286, an analogue from an initial study of the hemiasterlins, is presently in clinical trials. In addition to its potent antitumor effects, 2 has the advantage of circumventing the P-glycoprotein-mediated resistance that hampers the efficacy of other antimicrotubule agents such as paclitaxel and vincristine in animal models. This paper describes an in-depth study of the structure--activity relationships of analogues of 2, their effects on microtubule polymerization, and their in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity. Regions of the molecule necessary for potent activity are identified. Groups tolerant of modification, leading to novel analogues, are reported. Potent analogues identified through in vivo studies in tumor xenograft models include one superior analogue, HTI-042.

Characterization of covalent binding of N'-nitrosonornicotine in rat liver microsomes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hughes, M.F.; Brock, W.J.; Marion, L.J.

1986-01-01

The metabolism of the carcinogenic nitrosamine, N'-nitrosonornicotine (NNN), to reactive intermediates which bind covalently was assessed using male Sprague-Dawley rat liver microsomes. The NADPH-dependent covalent binding of (/sup 14/C)NNN was linear with time up to 90 min and protein concentration up to 3.0 mg/ml. The apparent Km and Vmax of the binding were determined from the initial velocities and found to be 0.91 mM and 4.7 pmol/min/mg protein, respectively. Although NNN is not a hepatocarcinogen, this amount of NADPH-dependent covalent binding is 7-fold greater than that reported for dimethylnitrosamine, a potent hepatocarcinogen. Extensive covalent binding of (/sup 14/C)NNN to livermore » and muscle microsomal protein was also present in the absence of an NADPH-generating system and in the presence of 50% methanol, indicating a non-enzymatically mediated reaction. Addition of the nucleophiles glutathione, cysteine and N-acetylcysteine significantly decreased (p less than 0.01) the non-NADPH-dependent binding, but did not affect NADPH-dependent binding. In vitro addition of the cytochrome P-450 inhibitors metyrapone, piperonyl butoxide and SKF-525A significantly decreased (p less than 0.05) NADPH-dependent binding of (14C)NNN by 27-40%. NADH did not replace NADPH in supporting covalent binding. Replacement of an air atmosphere with nitrogen or CO:O2 (8:2) significantly decreased (p less than 0.05) NADPH-dependent binding of (/sup 14/C)NNN by 40 and 27%, respectively. Aroclor 1254 pre-treatment of the rats did not enhance the NADPH-dependent binding of (/sup 14/C)NNN. These data indicate that cytochrome P-450 is at least in part responsible for the metabolic activation of the carcinogen NNN but also suggest additional mechanisms of activation.« less

Rubber-Modified Epoxies: Interfacial Tension and Morphology.

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-02-02

discussed in detail in previous communications. 71 [,1 The carboxy-terminated butadiene-acrylonitrile copolymers ( CTBNs ) used in these stu- vdies...prepared by a process that yields polymers with lower polydispersity compared to the commercially available CTBNs , were provided by B.F. Goodrich...graphic data, calibrated from polystyrene standards, and are given in Table 2. 9e .4. TABLE 1. Properties of CTBNs and Epoxy Material %Acrylonitrile

Binding of anticancer drug daunomycin to a TGGGGT G-quadruplex DNA probed by all-atom molecular dynamics simulations: additional pure groove binding mode and implications on designing more selective G-quadruplex ligands.

PubMed

Shen, Zhanhang; Mulholland, Kelly A; Zheng, Yujun; Wu, Chun

2017-09-01

DNA G-quadruplex structures are emerging cancer-specific targets for chemotherapeutics. Ligands that bind to and stabilize DNA G-quadruplexes have the potential to be anti-cancer drugs. Lack of binding selectivity to DNA G-quadruplex over DNA duplex remains a major challenge when attempting to develop G-quadruplex ligands into successful anti-cancer drugs. Thorough understanding of the binding nature of existing non-selective ligands that bind to both DNA quadruplex and DNA duplex will help to address this challenge. Daunomycin and doxorubicin, two commonly used anticancer drugs, are examples of non-selective DNA ligands. In this study, we extended our early all-atom binding simulation studies between doxorubicin and a DNA duplex (d(CGATCG) 2 ) to probe the binding between daunomycin and a parallel DNA quadruplex (d(TGGGGT) 4 ) and DNA duplex. In addition to the end stacking mode, which mimics the mode in the crystal structure, a pure groove binding mode was observed in our free binding simulations. The dynamic and energetic properties of these two binding modes are thoroughly examined, and a detailed comparison is made between DNA quadruplex binding modes and DNA duplex binding modes. Implications on the design of more selective DNA quadruplex ligands are also discussed. Graphical abstract Top stacking and groov binding modes from the MD simulations.

Detecting cis-regulatory binding sites for cooperatively binding proteins

PubMed Central

van Oeffelen, Liesbeth; Cornelis, Pierre; Van Delm, Wouter; De Ridder, Fedor; De Moor, Bart; Moreau, Yves

2008-01-01

Several methods are available to predict cis-regulatory modules in DNA based on position weight matrices. However, the performance of these methods generally depends on a number of additional parameters that cannot be derived from sequences and are difficult to estimate because they have no physical meaning. As the best way to detect cis-regulatory modules is the way in which the proteins recognize them, we developed a new scoring method that utilizes the underlying physical binding model. This method requires no additional parameter to account for multiple binding sites; and the only necessary parameters to model homotypic cooperative interactions are the distances between adjacent protein binding sites in basepairs, and the corresponding cooperative binding constants. The heterotypic cooperative binding model requires one more parameter per cooperatively binding protein, which is the concentration multiplied by the partition function of this protein. In a case study on the bacterial ferric uptake regulator, we show that our scoring method for homotypic cooperatively binding proteins significantly outperforms other PWM-based methods where biophysical cooperativity is not taken into account. PMID:18400778

Functional assignment of solute-binding proteins of ABC transporters using a fluorescence-based thermal shift assay.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Giulliani, S. E.; Frank, A. E.; Collart, F. R.

2008-12-08

We have used a fluorescence-based thermal shift (FTS) assay to identify amino acids that bind to solute-binding proteins in the bacterial ABC transporter family. The assay was validated with a set of six proteins with known binding specificity and was consistently able to map proteins with their known binding ligands. The assay also identified additional candidate binding ligands for several of the amino acid-binding proteins in the validation set. We extended this approach to additional targets and demonstrated the ability of the FTS assay to unambiguously identify preferential binding for several homologues of amino acid-binding proteins with known specificity andmore » to functionally annotate proteins of unknown binding specificity. The assay is implemented in a microwell plate format and provides a rapid approach to validate an anticipated function or to screen proteins of unknown function. The ABC-type transporter family is ubiquitous and transports a variety of biological compounds, but the current annotation of the ligand-binding proteins is limited to mostly generic descriptions of function. The results illustrate the feasibility of the FTS assay to improve the functional annotation of binding proteins associated with ABC-type transporters and suggest this approach that can also be extended to other protein families.« less

Anhydrous 1:1 proton-transfer compounds of isonipecotamide with picric acid and 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid: 4-carbamoylpiperidinium 2,4,6-trinitrophenolate and two polymorphs of 4-carbamoylpiperidinium 2-carboxy-4,6-dinitrophenolate.

PubMed

Smith, Graham; Wermuth, Urs D

2010-12-01

The structures of the anhydrous 1:1 proton-transfer compounds of isonipecotamide (piperidine-4-carboxamide) with picric acid and 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid, namely 4-carbamoylpiperidinium 2,4,6-trinitrophenolate, C(6)H(13)N(2)O(+)·C(6)H(2)N(3)O(7)(-), (I), and 4-carbamoylpiperidinium 2-carboxy-4,6-dinitrophenolate [two forms of which were found, the monoclinic α-polymorph, (II), and the triclinic β-polymorph, (III)], C(6)H(13)N(2)O(+)·C(7)H(3)N(2)O(7)(-), have been determined at 200 K. All three compounds form hydrogen-bonded structures, viz. one-dimensional in (II), two-dimensional in (I) and three-dimensional in (III). In (I), the cations form centrosymmetric cyclic head-to-tail hydrogen-bonded homodimers [graph set R(2)(2)(14)] through lateral duplex piperidinium-amide N-H...O interactions. These dimers are extended into a two-dimensional network structure through further interactions with phenolate and nitro O-atom acceptors, including a direct symmetric piperidinium-phenol/nitro N-H...O,O cation-anion association [graph set R(1)(2)(6)]. The monoclinic polymorph, (II), has a similar R(1)(2)(6) cation-anion hydrogen-bonding interaction to (I) but with an additional conjoint symmetrical R(1)(2)(4) interaction as well as head-to-tail piperidinium-amide N-H...O,O hydrogen bonds and amide-carboxyl N-H...O hydrogen bonds, giving a network structure which includes large R(4)(3)(20) rings. The hydrogen bonding in the triclinic polymorph, (III), is markedly different from that of monoclinic (II). The asymmetric unit contains two independent cation-anion pairs which associate through cyclic piperidinium-carboxyl N-H...O,O' interactions [graph set R(1)(2)(4)]. The cations also show the zigzag head-to-tail piperidinium-amide N-H...O hydrogen-bonded chain substructures found in (II), but in addition feature amide-nitro and amide-phenolate N-H...O associations. As well, there is a centrosymmetric double-amide N-H...O(carboxyl) bridged bis(cation-anion) ring system [graph set R(4)(2)(8)] in the three-dimensional framework. The structures reported here demonstrate the utility of the isonipecotamide cation as a synthon with previously unrecognized potential for structure assembly applications. Furthermore, the structures of the two polymorphic 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid salts show an unusual dissimilarity in hydrogen-bonding characteristics, considering that both were obtained from identical solvent systems.

Endogenous Hot Spots of De Novo Telomere Addition in the Yeast Genome Contain Proximal Enhancers That Bind Cdc13

PubMed Central

Obodo, Udochukwu C.; Epum, Esther A.; Platts, Margaret H.; Seloff, Jacob; Dahlson, Nicole A.; Velkovsky, Stoycho M.; Paul, Shira R.

2016-01-01

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) pose a threat to genome stability and are repaired through multiple mechanisms. Rarely, telomerase, the enzyme that maintains telomeres, acts upon a DSB in a mutagenic process termed telomere healing. The probability of telomere addition is increased at specific genomic sequences termed sites of repair-associated telomere addition (SiRTAs). By monitoring repair of an induced DSB, we show that SiRTAs on chromosomes V and IX share a bipartite structure in which a core sequence (Core) is directly targeted by telomerase, while a proximal sequence (Stim) enhances the probability of de novo telomere formation. The Stim and Core sequences are sufficient to confer a high frequency of telomere addition to an ectopic site. Cdc13, a single-stranded DNA binding protein that recruits telomerase to endogenous telomeres, is known to stimulate de novo telomere addition when artificially recruited to an induced DSB. Here we show that the ability of the Stim sequence to enhance de novo telomere addition correlates with its ability to bind Cdc13, indicating that natural sites at which telomere addition occurs at high frequency require binding by Cdc13 to a sequence 20 to 100 bp internal from the site at which telomerase acts to initiate de novo telomere addition. PMID:27044869

Optimization of recombinant β-glucuronidase hydrolysis and quantification of eight urinary cannabinoids and metabolites by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Sempio, Cristina; Scheidweiler, Karl B; Barnes, Allan J; Huestis, Marilyn A

2018-03-01

Prolonged urinary cannabinoid excretion in chronic frequent cannabis users confounds identification of recent cannabis intake that may be important in treatment, workplace, clinical, and forensic testing programs. In addition, differentiation of synthetic Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) intake from cannabis plant products might be an important interpretive issue. THC, 11-hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC) and 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC (THCCOOH) urine concentrations were evaluated during previous controlled cannabis administration studies following tandem alkaline/E. coli β-glucuronidase hydrolysis. We optimized recombinant β-glucuronidase enzymatic urinary hydrolysis before simultaneous liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) quantification of THC, 11-OH-THC, THCCOOH, cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) and 11-nor-9-carboxy-THCV (THCVCOOH) in urine. Enzyme amount, incubation time and temperature, buffer molarity and pH were optimized using pooled urine samples collected during a National Institute on Drug Abuse, Institutional Review Board-approved clinical study. Optimized cannabinoid hydrolysis with recombinant β-glucuronidase was achieved with 2000 IU enzyme, 2 M pH 6.8 sodium phosphate buffer, and 0.2 mL urine at 37°C for 16 h. The LC-MS/MS quantification method for hydrolyzed urinary cannabinoids was validated per the Scientific Working Group on Toxicology guidelines. Linear ranges were 1-250 μg/L for THC and CBG, 2-250 μg/L for 11-OH-THC, CBD, CBN, THCV and THCVCOOH, and 1-500 μg/L for THCCOOH. Inter-batch analytical bias was 92.4-112.4%, imprecision 4.4-9.3% CV (n = 25), extraction efficiency 44.3-97.1% and matrix effect -29.6 to 1.8% (n = 10). The method was utilized to analyze urine specimens collected during our controlled smoked, vaporized, and edible cannabis administration study to improve interpretation of urine cannabinoid test results. Published 2017. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Characterization and sequence analysis of pilin from F-like plasmids.

PubMed Central

Frost, L S; Finlay, B B; Opgenorth, A; Paranchych, W; Lee, J S

1985-01-01

Conjugative pili are expressed by derepressed plasmids and initiate cell-to-cell contact during bacterial conjugation. They are also the site of attachment for pilus-specific phages (f1, f2, and QB). In this study, the number of pili per cell and their ability to retract in the presence of cyanide was estimated for 13 derepressed plasmids. Selected pilus types were further characterized for reactivity with anti-F and anti-ColB2 pilus antisera as well as two F pilus-specific monoclonal antibodies, one of which is specific for a sequence common to most F-like pilin types (JEL92) and one which is specific for the amino terminus of F pilin (JEL93). The pilin genes from eight of these plasmids were cloned and sequenced, and the results were compared with information on F, ColB2, and pED208 pilin. Six pilus groups were defined: I, was F-like [F, pED202(R386), ColV2-K94, and ColVBtrp]; IIA was ColB2-like in sequence but had a lowered sensitivity to f1 phage due to its decreased ability for pilus retraction [pED236(ColB2) and pED203(ColB4)]; IIB was ColB2-like but retained f1 sensitivity [pED200(R124) and pED207(R538-1)]; III contained R1-19, which had a ColB2-like amino terminus but had an additional lysine residue at its carboxy terminus which may affect its phage sensitivity pattern and its antigenicity; IV was R100-1-like [R100-1 and presumably pED241(R136) and pED204(R6)] which had a unique amino-terminal sequence combined with a carboxy terminus similar to that of F. pED208(Folac) formed group V, which was multipiliated and exhibited poor pilus retraction although it retained full sensitivity to f1 phage. The pED208 pilin gene could not be cloned at this time since it shared no homology with the pilin gene of the F plasmid. Images PMID:2999074

Protein phosphatase 2A mediates JS-K-induced apoptosis by affecting Bcl-2 family proteins in human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells.

PubMed

Liu, Ling; Huang, Zile; Chen, Jingjing; Wang, Jiangang; Wang, Shuying

2018-04-25

Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is an important enzyme within various signal transduction pathways. The present study was investigated PP2A mediates JS-K-induced apoptosis by affecting Bcl-2 family protein. JS-K showed diverse inhibitory effects in five HCC cell lines, especially HepG2 cells. JS-K caused a dose- and time-dependent reduction in cell viability and increased in levels of LDH release. Meanwhile, JS-K- induced apoptosis was characterized by mitochondrial membrane potential reduction, Hoechst 33342 + /PI + dual staining, release of cytochrome c (Cyt c), and activation of cleaved caspase-9/3. Moreover, JS-K-treatment could lead to the activation of protein phosphatase 2A-C (PP2A-C), decrease of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family-protein expression including p-Bcl-2 (Ser70), Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, and Mcl-1 as well as the increase of pro-apoptosis Bcl-2 family-protein including Bim, Bad, Bax, and Bak. Furthermore, JS-K caused a marked increase of intracellular NO levels while pre-treatment with Carboxy-PTIO (a NO scavenger) reduced the cytotoxicity effects and the apoptosis rate. Meanwhile, pre-treatment with Carboxy-PTIO attenuated the JS-K-induced up-regulation of PP2A, Cyt c, and cleaved-caspase-9/3 activation. The silencing PP2A-C by siRNA could abolish the activation of PP2A-C, down-regulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family-protein (p-Bcl-2, Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, and Mcl-1), increase of pro-apoptosis Bcl-2 family-protein (Bim, Bad, Bax, and Bak) and apoptotic-related protein (Cyt c, cleaved caspase-9/3) that were caused by JS-K in HepG2 cells. In addition, pre-treatment with OA (a PP2A inhibitor) also attenuated the above effects induced by JS-K. In summary, NO release from JS-K induces apoptosis through PP2A activation, which contributed to the regulation of Bcl-2 family proteins. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Binding mechanism of patulin to heat-treated yeast cell.

PubMed

Guo, C; Yuan, Y; Yue, T; Hatab, S; Wang, Z

2012-12-01

This study aims to assess the removal mechanism of patulin using heat-treated Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells and identify the role of different cell wall components in the binding process. In order to understand the binding mechanism, viable cells, heat-treated cells, cell wall and intracellular extract were performed to assess their ability to remove patulin. Additionally, the effects of chemical and enzymatic treatments of yeast on the binding ability were tested. The results showed that there was no significant difference between viable (53·28%) and heat-treated yeast cells (51·71%) in patulin binding. In addition, the cell wall fraction decreased patulin by 35·05%, and the cell extract nearly failed to bind patulin. Treatments with protease E, methanol, formaldehyde, periodate or urea significantly decreased (P < 0·05) the ability of heat-treated cells to remove patulin. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis indicated that more functional groups were involved in the binding process of heat-treated cells. Polysaccharides and protein are important components of yeast cell wall involved in patulin removal. In addition, hydrophobic interactions play a major role in binding processes. Heat-treated S. cerevisiae cells could be used to control patulin contamination in the apple juice industry. Also, our results proof that the patulin removal process is based mainly on the adsorption not degradation. © 2012 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

CITED2 modulates estrogen receptor transcriptional activity in breast cancer cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lau, Wen Min; Doucet, Michele; Huang, David

2013-07-26

Highlights: •The effects of elevated CITED2 on ER function in breast cancer cells are examined. •CITED2 enhances cell growth in the absence of estrogen and presence of tamoxifen. •CITED2 functions as a transcriptional co-activator of ER in breast cancer cells. -- Abstract: Cbp/p300-interacting transactivator with Glu/Asp-rich carboxy-terminal domain 2 (CITED2) is a member of the CITED family of non-DNA binding transcriptional co-activators of the p300/CBP-mediated transcription complex. Previously, we identified CITED2 as being overexpressed in human breast tumors relative to normal mammary epithelium. Upon further investigation within the estrogen receptor (ER)-positive subset of these breast tumor samples, we found thatmore » CITED2 mRNA expression was elevated in those associated with poor survival. In light of this observation, we investigated the effect of elevated CITED2 levels on ER function. While ectopic overexpression of CITED2 in three ER-positive breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7, T47D, and CAMA-1) did not alter cell proliferation in complete media, growth was markedly enhanced in the absence of exogenous estrogen. Correspondingly, cells overexpressing CITED2 demonstrated reduced sensitivity to the growth inhibitory effects of the selective estrogen receptor modulator, 4-hydroxytamoxifen. Subsequent studies revealed that basal ER transcriptional activity was elevated in CITED2-overexpressing cells and was further increased upon the addition of estrogen. Similarly, basal and estrogen-induced expression of the ER-regulated genes trefoil factor 1 (TFF1) and progesterone receptor (PGR) was higher in cells overexpressing CITED2. Concordant with this observation, ChIP analysis revealed higher basal levels of CITED2 localized to the TFF-1 and PGR promoters in cells with ectopic overexpression of CITED2, and these levels were elevated further in response to estrogen stimulation. Taken together, these data indicate that CITED2 functions as a transcriptional co-activator of ER in breast cancer cells and that its increased expression in tumors may result in estrogen-independent ER activation, thereby reducing estrogen dependence and response to anti-estrogen therapy.« less

Calcium–calmodulin signalling pathway up-regulates glutamatergic synaptic function in non-pyramidal, fast spiking rat hippocampal CA1 neurons

PubMed Central

Wang, Jin-Hui; Kelly, Paul

2001-01-01

The role of Ca2+-calmodulin (CaM) signalling cascades in modulating glutamatergic synaptic transmission on CA1 non-pyramidal fast-spiking neurons was investigated using whole-cell recording and perfusion in rat hippocampal slices. Paired stimuli (PS), consisting of postsynaptic depolarization to 0 mV and presynaptic stimulation at 1 Hz for 30 s, enhanced excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) on non-pyramidal neurons in the stratum pyramidale (SP). The potentiation was reduced by the extracellular application of d-amino-5-phosphonovaleric acid (DAP-5, 40 μm), and blocked by the postsynaptic perfusion of 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)-ethane-N,N,N′,N′-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA, 10 mm), a CaM-binding peptide (100 μm) or CaMKII (281–301) (an autoinhibitory peptide of CaM-dependent protein kinases, 100 μm). The application of adenophostin, an agonist of inositol trisphosphate receptors (IP3Rs) that evokes Ca2+ release, into SP non-pyramidal neurons via the patch pipette (1 μm) enhanced EPSCs and occluded PS-induced synaptic potentiation. The co-application of BAPTA (10 mm) with adenophostin blocked synaptic potentiation. In addition, Ca2+-CaM (40:10 μm) induced synaptic potentiation, which occluded PS-induced potentiation and was attenuated by introducing CaMKII (281–301) (100 μm). EPSCs were sensitive to an antagonist of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptor (AMPAR). Application of Ca2+-CaM into SP non-pyramidal neurons induced the emergence of AMPAR-mediated EPSCs that were not evoked by low stimulus intensity before perfusion. Ca2+-CaM also increased the amplitude and frequency of spontaneous EPSCs. A scavenger of nitric oxide, carboxy-PTIO (30 μm in slice-perfusion solution), did not affect these increases in sEPSCs. The magnitude of PS-, adenophostin- or Ca2+-CaM-induced synaptic potentiation in SP non-pyramidal neurons increased during postnatal development. These results indicate that Ca2+-CaM signalling pathways in CA1 SP non-pyramidal neurons up-regulate glutamatergic synaptic transmission probably through the conversion of inactive-to-active synapses. PMID:11389201

The Role of Attention in Item-Item Binding in Visual Working Memory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peterson, Dwight J.; Naveh-Benjamin, Moshe

2017-01-01

An important yet unresolved question regarding visual working memory (VWM) relates to whether or not binding processes within VWM require additional attentional resources compared with processing solely the individual components comprising these bindings. Previous findings indicate that binding of surface features (e.g., colored shapes) within VWM…

The role of attention in item-item binding in visual working memory.

PubMed

Peterson, Dwight J; Naveh-Benjamin, Moshe

2017-09-01

An important yet unresolved question regarding visual working memory (VWM) relates to whether or not binding processes within VWM require additional attentional resources compared with processing solely the individual components comprising these bindings. Previous findings indicate that binding of surface features (e.g., colored shapes) within VWM is not demanding of resources beyond what is required for single features. However, it is possible that other types of binding, such as the binding of complex, distinct items (e.g., faces and scenes), in VWM may require additional resources. In 3 experiments, we examined VWM item-item binding performance under no load, articulatory suppression, and backward counting using a modified change detection task. Binding performance declined to a greater extent than single-item performance under higher compared with lower levels of concurrent load. The findings from each of these experiments indicate that processing item-item bindings within VWM requires a greater amount of attentional resources compared with single items. These findings also highlight an important distinction between the role of attention in item-item binding within VWM and previous studies of long-term memory (LTM) where declines in single-item and binding test performance are similar under divided attention. The current findings provide novel evidence that the specific type of binding is an important determining factor regarding whether or not VWM binding processes require attention. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Identification of a Second Substrate-binding Site in Solute-Sodium Symporters*

PubMed Central

Li, Zheng; Lee, Ashley S. E.; Bracher, Susanne; Jung, Heinrich; Paz, Aviv; Kumar, Jay P.; Abramson, Jeff; Quick, Matthias; Shi, Lei

2015-01-01

The structure of the sodium/galactose transporter (vSGLT), a solute-sodium symporter (SSS) from Vibrio parahaemolyticus, shares a common structural fold with LeuT of the neurotransmitter-sodium symporter family. Structural alignments between LeuT and vSGLT reveal that the crystallographically identified galactose-binding site in vSGLT is located in a more extracellular location relative to the central substrate-binding site (S1) in LeuT. Our computational analyses suggest the existence of an additional galactose-binding site in vSGLT that aligns to the S1 site of LeuT. Radiolabeled galactose saturation binding experiments indicate that, like LeuT, vSGLT can simultaneously bind two substrate molecules under equilibrium conditions. Mutating key residues in the individual substrate-binding sites reduced the molar substrate-to-protein binding stoichiometry to ∼1. In addition, the related and more experimentally tractable SSS member PutP (the Na+/proline transporter) also exhibits a binding stoichiometry of 2. Targeting residues in the proposed sites with mutations results in the reduction of the binding stoichiometry and is accompanied by severely impaired translocation of proline. Our data suggest that substrate transport by SSS members requires both substrate-binding sites, thereby implying that SSSs and neurotransmitter-sodium symporters share common mechanistic elements in substrate transport. PMID:25398883

Lipotoxicity, β cell dysfunction, and gestational diabetes.

PubMed

Nolan, Christopher J

2014-04-01

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is caused by failure of islet β cells to meet the increased insulin requirements of pregnancy. Recently, Prentice et al. (2014) discovered a 7-fold elevation of the furan fatty acid metabolite 3-carboxy-4-methyl-5-propyl-2-furanopropanoic acid (CMPF) in plasma of women with GDM and showed that CMPF directly induces β cell dysfunction. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Castable and High Modulus Acoustic Dampening Material

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-02-22

high impact strength and high dampening laminate structures (e.g., fiberglass parts, etc.). It appears that a carboxy-terminated butadiene nitrile ( CTBN ...Sanjana reference also states that the preferred glass transition temperature for the CTBNs is "<-200". The greater the difference from room...temperature (or the temperature of interest) that the glass transition of the CTBN is, the less acoustic or vibrational energy will be absorbed/dampened

Rubber-Modified Epoxy and Glass Laminates for Application to Naval Ship Structures.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-09-01

more information. Two generic carboxy terminated butadiene acrylonitrile ( CTBN )-modified epoxy/glass cloth material systems have been characterized...versus Normal Impact Energy of 7781-Z6040/Fl55 .......... .................... 8 4 - Front Surface of CTBN -Modified Epoxy GRP Panel After 60 Impacts at...15 6 - Back Surface of CTBN -Modified Epoxy GRP Panel After 60 Impacts at 206 Foot-Pounds ..... .................. ... 16 7 - Back Surface of

Nanotechnology-Enabled Optical Molecular Imaging of Breast Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-07-01

Abbreviations Ab antibody AF-Ab Alexa Fluor labeled antibody CCD charge coupled device CTAB cetyltrimethylammonium bromide EDC 1-ethyl-[3-dimethylaminopropyl...mPEG-SH in figure 1. The carboxy-terminal nanorods were conjugated to antibodies using the zero-length crosslinker EDC stabilized by NHS [38]. Standard...multimode fiber coupler /positioner (Newport, model: F-915T) is utilized to mount the objective lens and a fiber chuck (Newport, model: FPH-DJ). With

The cryo-electron microscopy structure of huntingtin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Qiang; Bin Huang; Cheng, Jingdong; Seefelder, Manuel; Engler, Tatjana; Pfeifer, Günter; Oeckl, Patrick; Otto, Markus; Moser, Franziska; Maurer, Melanie; Pautsch, Alexander; Baumeister, Wolfgang; Fernández-Busnadiego, Rubén; Kochanek, Stefan

2018-03-01

Huntingtin (HTT) is a large (348 kDa) protein that is essential for embryonic development and is involved in diverse cellular activities such as vesicular transport, endocytosis, autophagy and the regulation of transcription. Although an integrative understanding of the biological functions of HTT is lacking, the large number of identified HTT interactors suggests that it serves as a protein-protein interaction hub. Furthermore, Huntington’s disease is caused by a mutation in the HTT gene, resulting in a pathogenic expansion of a polyglutamine repeat at the amino terminus of HTT. However, only limited structural information regarding HTT is currently available. Here we use cryo-electron microscopy to determine the structure of full-length human HTT in a complex with HTT-associated protein 40 (HAP40; encoded by three F8A genes in humans) to an overall resolution of 4 Å. HTT is largely α-helical and consists of three major domains. The amino- and carboxy-terminal domains contain multiple HEAT (huntingtin, elongation factor 3, protein phosphatase 2A and lipid kinase TOR) repeats arranged in a solenoid fashion. These domains are connected by a smaller bridge domain containing different types of tandem repeats. HAP40 is also largely α-helical and has a tetratricopeptide repeat-like organization. HAP40 binds in a cleft and contacts the three HTT domains by hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions, thereby stabilizing the conformation of HTT. These data rationalize previous biochemical results and pave the way for improved understanding of the diverse cellular functions of HTT.

Combining peptide recognition specificity and context information for the prediction of the 14-3-3-mediated interactome in S. cerevisiae and H. sapiens.

PubMed

Panni, Simona; Montecchi-Palazzi, Luisa; Kiemer, Lars; Cabibbo, Andrea; Paoluzi, Serena; Santonico, Elena; Landgraf, Christiane; Volkmer-Engert, Rudolf; Bachi, Angela; Castagnoli, Luisa; Cesareni, Gianni

2011-01-01

Large-scale interaction studies contribute the largest fraction of protein interactions information in databases. However, co-purification of non-specific or indirect ligands, often results in data sets that are affected by a considerable number of false positives. For the fraction of interactions mediated by short linear peptides, we present here a combined experimental and computational strategy for ranking the reliability of the inferred partners. We apply this strategy to the family of 14-3-3 domains. We have first characterized the recognition specificity of this domain family, largely confirming the results of previous analyses, while revealing new features of the preferred sequence context of 14-3-3 phospho-peptide partners. Notably, a proline next to the carboxy side of the phospho-amino acid functions as a potent inhibitor of 14-3-3 binding. The position-specific information about residue preference was encoded in a scoring matrix and two regular expressions. The integration of these three features in a single predictive model outperforms publicly available prediction tools. Next we have combined, by a naïve Bayesian approach, these "peptide features" with "protein features", such as protein co-expression and co-localization. Our approach provides an orthogonal reliability assessment and maps with high confidence the 14-3-3 peptide target on the partner proteins. Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Molecular characterization of the enzymes involved in the degradation of a brominated aromatic herbicide.

PubMed

Chen, Kai; Huang, Linglong; Xu, Changfeng; Liu, Xiaomei; He, Jian; Zinder, Stephen H; Li, Shunpeng; Jiang, Jiandong

2013-09-01

Dehalogenation is the key step in the degradation of halogenated aromatics, while reductive dehalogenation is originally thought to rarely occur in aerobes. In this study, an aerobic strain of Comamonas sp. 7D-2 was shown to degrade the brominated aromatic herbicide bromoxynil completely and release two equivalents of bromides under aerobic conditions. The enzymes involved in the degradation of bromoxynil to 4-carboxy-2-hydroxymuconate-6-semialdehyde, including nitrilase, reductive dehalogenase (BhbA), 4-hydroxybenzoate 3-monooxygenase and protocatechuate 4,5-dioxygenase, were molecularly characterized. The novel dehalogenase BhbA was shown to be a complex of a respiration-linked reductive dehalogenase (RdhA) domain and a NAD(P)H-dependent oxidoreductase domain and to have key features of anaerobic respiratory RdhAs, including two predicted binding motifs for [4Fe-4S] clusters and a close association with a hydrophobic membrane protein (BhbB). BhbB was confirmed to anchor BhbA to the membrane. BhbA was partially purified and found to use NAD(P)H as electron donors. Full-length bhbA homologues were found almost exclusively in marine aerobic proteobacteria, suggesting that reductive dehalogenation occurs extensively in aerobes and that bhbA is horizontally transferred from marine microorganisms. The discovery of a functional reductive dehalogenase and ring-cleavage oxygenases in an aerobe opens up possibilities for basic research as well as the potential application for bioremediation. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Micromotor-based lab-on-chip immunoassays.

PubMed

García, Miguel; Orozco, Jahir; Guix, Maria; Gao, Wei; Sattayasamitsathit, Sirilak; Escarpa, Alberto; Merkoçi, Arben; Wang, Joseph

2013-02-21

Here we describe the first example of using self-propelled antibody-functionalized synthetic catalytic microengines for capturing and transporting target proteins between the different reservoirs of a lab-on-a-chip (LOC) device. A new catalytic polymer/Ni/Pt microtube engine, containing carboxy moieties on its mixed poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)/COOH-PEDOT polymeric outermost layer, is further functionalized with the antibody receptor to selectively recognize and capture the target protein. The new motor-based microchip immunoassay operations are carried out without any bulk fluid flow, replacing the common washing steps in antibody-based protein bioassays with the active transport of the captured protein throughout the different reservoirs, where each step of the immunoassay takes place. A first microchip format involving an 'on-the-fly' double-antibody sandwich assay (DASA) is used for demonstrating the selective capture of the target protein, in the presence of excess of non-target proteins. A secondary antibody tagged with a polymeric-sphere tracer allows the direct visualization of the binding events. In a second approach the immuno-nanomotor captures and transports the microsphere-tagged antigen through a microchannel network. An anti-protein-A modified microengine is finally used to demonstrate the selective capture, transport and convenient label-free optical detection of a Staphylococcus aureus target bacteria (containing proteinA in its cell wall) in the presence of a large excess of non-target (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) cells. The resulting nanomotor-based microchip immunoassay offers considerable potential for diverse applications in clinical diagnostics, environmental and security monitoring fields.

Sm14 of Schistosoma mansoni in Fusion with Tetanus Toxin Fragment C Induces Immunoprotection against Tetanus and Schistosomiasis in Mice

PubMed Central

Abreu, Patrícia A. E.; Miyasato, Patrícia A.; Vilar, Mônica M.; Dias, Waldely O.; Ho, Paulo L.; Tendler, Míriam; Nascimento, Ana L. T. O.

2004-01-01

We have constructed vectors that permit the expression in Escherichia coli of Schistosoma mansoni fatty acid-binding protein 14 (Sm14) in fusion with the nontoxic, but highly immunogenic, tetanus toxin fragment C (TTFC). The recombinant six-His-tagged proteins were purified by nickel affinity chromatography and used in immunization and challenge assays. Animals inoculated with TTFC in fusion with or coadministered with Sm14 showed high levels of tetanus toxin antibodies, while animals inoculated with Sm14 in fusion with or coadministered with TTFC showed high levels of Sm14 antibodies. In both cases, there were no changes in the type of immune response (Th2) obtained with the fusion proteins compared to those obtained with the nonfused proteins. Mice immunized with the recombinant proteins (TTFC in fusion with or coadministered with Sm14) survived the challenge with tetanus toxin and did not show any symptoms of the disease. Control animals inoculated with either phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or Sm14 died with severe symptoms of tetanus after 24 h. Mice immunized with the recombinant proteins (Sm14 in fusion with or coadministered with TTFC) showed a 50% reduction in worm burden when they were challenged with S. mansoni cercariae, while control animals inoculated with either PBS or TTFC were not protected. The results show that the expression of other antigens in fusion at the carboxy terminus of TTFC is feasible for the development of a multivalent recombinant vaccine. PMID:15385496

A Novel Hepacivirus with an Unusually Long and Intrinsically Disordered NS5A Protein in a Wild Old World Primate

PubMed Central

Lauck, Michael; Sibley, Samuel D.; Lara, James; Purdy, Michael A.; Khudyakov, Yury; Hyeroba, David; Tumukunde, Alex; Weny, Geoffrey; Switzer, William M.; Chapman, Colin A.; Hughes, Austin L.; Friedrich, Thomas C.; O'Connor, David H.

2013-01-01

GB virus B (GBV-B; family Flaviviridae, genus Hepacivirus) has been studied in New World primates as a model for human hepatitis C virus infection, but the distribution of GBV-B and its relatives in nature has remained obscure. Here, we report the discovery of a novel and highly divergent GBV-B-like virus in an Old World monkey, the black-and-white colobus (Colobus guereza), in Uganda. The new virus, guereza hepacivirus (GHV), clusters phylogenetically with GBV-B and recently described hepaciviruses infecting African bats and North American rodents, and it shows evidence of ancient recombination with these other hepaciviruses. Direct sequencing of reverse-transcribed RNA from blood plasma from three of nine colobus monkeys yielded near-complete GHV genomes, comprising two distinct viral variants. The viruses contain an exceptionally long nonstructural 5A (NS5A) gene, approximately half of which codes for a protein with no discernible homology to known proteins. Computational structure-based analyses indicate that the amino terminus of the GHV NS5A protein may serve a zinc-binding function, similar to the NS5A of other viruses within the family Flaviviridae. However, the 521-amino-acid carboxy terminus is intrinsically disordered, reflecting an unusual degree of structural plasticity and polyfunctionality. These findings shed new light on the natural history and evolution of the hepaciviruses and on the extent of structural variation within the Flaviviridae. PMID:23740998

A novel hepacivirus with an unusually long and intrinsically disordered NS5A protein in a wild Old World primate.

PubMed

Lauck, Michael; Sibley, Samuel D; Lara, James; Purdy, Michael A; Khudyakov, Yury; Hyeroba, David; Tumukunde, Alex; Weny, Geoffrey; Switzer, William M; Chapman, Colin A; Hughes, Austin L; Friedrich, Thomas C; O'Connor, David H; Goldberg, Tony L

2013-08-01

GB virus B (GBV-B; family Flaviviridae, genus Hepacivirus) has been studied in New World primates as a model for human hepatitis C virus infection, but the distribution of GBV-B and its relatives in nature has remained obscure. Here, we report the discovery of a novel and highly divergent GBV-B-like virus in an Old World monkey, the black-and-white colobus (Colobus guereza), in Uganda. The new virus, guereza hepacivirus (GHV), clusters phylogenetically with GBV-B and recently described hepaciviruses infecting African bats and North American rodents, and it shows evidence of ancient recombination with these other hepaciviruses. Direct sequencing of reverse-transcribed RNA from blood plasma from three of nine colobus monkeys yielded near-complete GHV genomes, comprising two distinct viral variants. The viruses contain an exceptionally long nonstructural 5A (NS5A) gene, approximately half of which codes for a protein with no discernible homology to known proteins. Computational structure-based analyses indicate that the amino terminus of the GHV NS5A protein may serve a zinc-binding function, similar to the NS5A of other viruses within the family Flaviviridae. However, the 521-amino-acid carboxy terminus is intrinsically disordered, reflecting an unusual degree of structural plasticity and polyfunctionality. These findings shed new light on the natural history and evolution of the hepaciviruses and on the extent of structural variation within the Flaviviridae.

Genome Wide Analysis of the Apple MYB Transcription Factor Family Allows the Identification of MdoMYB121 Gene Confering Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants

PubMed Central

Wang, Rong-Kai; Zhang, Rui-Fen; Hao, Yu-Jin

2013-01-01

The MYB proteins comprise one of the largest families of transcription factors (TFs) in plants. Although several MYB genes have been characterized to play roles in secondary metabolism, the MYB family has not yet been identified in apple. In this study, 229 apple MYB genes were identified through a genome-wide analysis and divided into 45 subgroups. A computational analysis was conducted using the apple genomic database to yield a complete overview of the MYB family, including the intron-exon organizations, the sequence features of the MYB DNA-binding domains, the carboxy-terminal motifs, and the chromosomal locations. Subsequently, the expression of 18 MYB genes, including 12 were chosen from stress-related subgroups, while another 6 ones from other subgroups, in response to various abiotic stresses was examined. It was found that several of these MYB genes, particularly MdoMYB121, were induced by multiple stresses. The MdoMYB121 was then further functionally characterized. Its predicted protein was found to be localized in the nucleus. A transgenic analysis indicated that the overexpression of the MdoMYB121 gene remarkably enhanced the tolerance to high salinity, drought, and cold stresses in transgenic tomato and apple plants. Our results indicate that the MYB genes are highly conserved in plant species and that MdoMYB121 can be used as a target gene in genetic engineering approaches to improve the tolerance of plants to multiple abiotic stresses. PMID:23950843

Measles virus genetic evolution throughout an imported epidemic outbreak in a highly vaccinated population.

PubMed

Muñoz-Alía, Miguel Ángel; Fernández-Muñoz, Rafael; Casasnovas, José María; Porras-Mansilla, Rebeca; Serrano-Pardo, Ángela; Pagán, Israel; Ordobás, María; Ramírez, Rosa; Celma, María Luisa

2015-01-22

Measles virus circulates endemically in African and Asian large urban populations, causing outbreaks worldwide in populations with up-to-95% immune protection. We studied the natural genetic variability of genotype B3.1 in a population with 95% vaccine coverage throughout an imported six month measles outbreak. From first pass viral isolates of 47 patients we performed direct sequencing of genomic cDNA. Whilst no variation from index case sequence occurred in the Nucleocapsid gene hyper-variable carboxy end, in the Hemagglutinin gene, main target for neutralizing antibodies, we observed gradual nucleotide divergence from index case along the outbreak (0% to 0.380%, average 0.138%) with the emergence of transient and persistent non-synonymous and synonymous mutations. Little or no variation was observed between the index and last outbreak cases in Phosphoprotein, Nucleocapsid, Matrix and Fusion genes. Most of the H non-synonymous mutations were mapped on the protein surface near antigenic and receptors binding sites. We estimated a MV-Hemagglutinin nucleotide substitution rate of 7.28 × 10-6 substitutions/site/day by a Bayesian phylogenetic analysis. The dN/dS analysis did not suggest significant immune or other selective pressures on the H gene during the outbreak. These results emphasize the usefulness of MV-H sequence analysis in measles epidemiological surveillance and elimination programs, and in detection of potentially emergence of measles virus neutralization-resistant mutants. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

ACCA phosphopeptide recognition by the BRCT repeats of BRCA1.

PubMed

Ray, Hind; Moreau, Karen; Dizin, Eva; Callebaut, Isabelle; Venezia, Nicole Dalla

2006-06-16

The tumour suppressor gene BRCA1 encodes a 220 kDa protein that participates in multiple cellular processes. The BRCA1 protein contains a tandem of two BRCT repeats at its carboxy-terminal region. The majority of disease-associated BRCA1 mutations affect this region and provide to the BRCT repeats a central role in the BRCA1 tumour suppressor function. The BRCT repeats have been shown to mediate phospho-dependant protein-protein interactions. They recognize phosphorylated peptides using a recognition groove that spans both BRCT repeats. We previously identified an interaction between the tandem of BRCA1 BRCT repeats and ACCA, which was disrupted by germ line BRCA1 mutations that affect the BRCT repeats. We recently showed that BRCA1 modulates ACCA activity through its phospho-dependent binding to ACCA. To delineate the region of ACCA that is crucial for the regulation of its activity by BRCA1, we searched for potential phosphorylation sites in the ACCA sequence that might be recognized by the BRCA1 BRCT repeats. Using sequence analysis and structure modelling, we proposed the Ser1263 residue as the most favourable candidate among six residues, for recognition by the BRCA1 BRCT repeats. Using experimental approaches, such as GST pull-down assay with Bosc cells, we clearly showed that phosphorylation of only Ser1263 was essential for the interaction of ACCA with the BRCT repeats. We finally demonstrated by immunoprecipitation of ACCA in cells, that the whole BRCA1 protein interacts with ACCA when phosphorylated on Ser1263.

Discrete Determinants in ArfGAP2/3 Conferring Golgi Localization and Regulation by the COPI Coat

PubMed Central

Kliouchnikov, Lena; Bigay, Joëlle; Mesmin, Bruno; Parnis, Anna; Rawet, Moran; Goldfeder, Noga; Antonny, Bruno

2009-01-01

From yeast to mammals, two types of GTPase-activating proteins, ArfGAP1 and ArfGAP2/3, control guanosine triphosphate (GTP) hydrolysis on the small G protein ADP-ribosylation factor (Arf) 1 at the Golgi apparatus. Although functionally interchangeable, they display little similarity outside the catalytic GTPase-activating protein (GAP) domain, suggesting differential regulation. ArfGAP1 is controlled by membrane curvature through its amphipathic lipid packing sensor motifs, whereas Golgi targeting of ArfGAP2 depends on coatomer, the building block of the COPI coat. Using a reporter fusion approach and in vitro assays, we identified several functional elements in ArfGAP2/3. We show that the Golgi localization of ArfGAP3 depends on both a central basic stretch and a carboxy-amphipathic motif. The basic stretch interacts directly with coatomer, which we found essential for the catalytic activity of ArfGAP3 on Arf1-GTP, whereas the carboxy-amphipathic motif interacts directly with lipid membranes but has minor role in the regulation of ArfGAP3 activity. Our findings indicate that the two types of ArfGAP proteins that reside at the Golgi use a different combination of protein–protein and protein–lipid interactions to promote GTP hydrolysis in Arf1-GTP. PMID:19109418

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Venkatagopalan, Pavithra; School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-5401; Microbiology Graduate Program, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-5401

Coronaviruses (CoVs) assemble at endoplasmic reticulum Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC) membranes and egress from cells in cargo vesicles. Only a few molecules of the envelope (E) protein are assembled into virions. The role of E in morphogenesis is not fully understood. The cellular localization and dynamics of mouse hepatitis CoV A59 (MHV) E protein were investigated to further understanding of its role during infection. E protein localized in the ERGIC and Golgi with the amino and carboxy termini in the lumen and cytoplasm, respectively. E protein does not traffic to the cell surface. MHV was genetically engineered with a tetracysteinemore » tag at the carboxy end of E. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) showed that E is mobile in ERGIC/Golgi membranes. Correlative light electron microscopy (CLEM) confirmed the presence of E in Golgi cisternae. The results provide strong support that E proteins carry out their function(s) at the site of budding/assembly. - Highlights: • Mouse hepatitis coronavirus (MHV-CoV) E protein localizes in the ERGIC and Golgi. • MHV-CoV E does not transport to the cell surface. • MHV-CoV can be genetically engineered with a tetracysteine tag appended to E. • First FRAP and correlative light electron microscopy of a CoV E protein. • Live-cell imaging shows that E is mobile in ERGIC/Golgi membranes.« less

Five essential oils from aromatic plants of Cameroon: their antibacterial activity and ability to permeabilize the cytoplasmic membrane of Listeria innocua examined by flow cytometry.

PubMed

Nguefack, J; Budde, B B; Jakobsen, M

2004-01-01

To investigate the antibacterial effect of five essential oils (EO) extracted from aromatic plants (Cymbopogon citratus, Ocimumbasilicum, Ocimum gratissimum, Thymus vulgaris and Zingiber officinale) of Cameroon against strains of Listeria monocytogenes, L. innocua and Staphylococcus aureus. The ability of selected EO to permeabilize the cytoplasmic membrane of L. innocua was also examined. The antibacterial activity of the EO determined by the agar diffusion method showed that T. vulgaris had the highest activity followed by O. gratissimum and C. citratus. Lowest activity was recorded from Z. officinale and O. basilicum. Significant differences in sensitivity between strains of Listeria and S. aureus were observed. Flow cytometry of L. innocua stained with carboxy-fluorescein diacetate showed that the fluorescence intensity of cells exposed to EO decreased faster than nonexposed cells, indicating that EO permeabilized the cytoplasmic membrane with the leakage of carboxy-fluorescein. Almost all the EO tested showed antibacterial activity to a different extent. The antibacterial effect was due to permeabilization of the cytoplasmic membrane. This study has identified the preservative potential of the EO examined. The use of sensitive method, such as flow cytometry, is advantageous for quick generation of data on the antibacterial effect of EO.

HPV8-E6 Interferes with Syntenin-2 Expression through Deregulation of Differentiation, Methylation and Phosphatidylinositide-Kinase Dependent Mechanisms.

PubMed

Marx, Benjamin; Miller-Lazic, Daliborka; Doorbar, John; Majewski, Slawomir; Hofmann, Kay; Hufbauer, Martin; Akgül, Baki

2017-01-01

The E6 oncoproteins of high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV) of genus alpha contain a short peptide sequence at the carboxy-terminus, the PDZ binding domain, with which they interact with the corresponding PDZ domain of cellular proteins. Interestingly, E6 proteins from papillomaviruses of genus beta (betaPV) do not encode a comparable PDZ binding domain. Irrespective of this fact, we previously showed that the E6 protein of HPV8 (betaPV type) could circumvent this deficit by targeting the PDZ protein Syntenin-2 through transcriptional repression (Lazic et al., 2012). Despite its high binding affinity to phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P 2 ), very little is known about Syntenin-2. This study aimed to extend the knowledge on Syntenin-2 and how its expression is controlled. We now identified that Syntenin-2 is expressed at high levels in differentiating and in lower amounts in keratinocytes cultured in serum-free media containing low calcium concentration. HPV8-E6 led to a further reduction of Syntenin-2 expression only in cells cultured in low calcium. In the skin of patients suffering from Epidermodysplasia verruciformis, who are predisposed to betaPV infection, Syntenin-2 was expressed in differentiating keratinocytes of non-lesional skin, but was absent in virus positive squamous tumors. Using 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine, which causes DNA demethylation, Syntenin-2 transcription was profoundly activated and fully restored in the absence and presence of HPV8-E6, implicating that E6 mediated repression of Syntenin-2 transcription is due to promoter hypermethylation. Since Syntenin-2 binds to PI(4,5)P 2 , we further tested whether the PI(4,5)P 2 metabolic pathway might govern Syntenin-2 expression. PI(4,5)P 2 is generated by the activity of phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate-5-kinase type I (PIP5KI) or phosphatidylinositol-5-phosphate-4-kinase type II (PIP4KII) isoforms α, β and γ. Phosphatidylinositide kinases have recently been identified as regulators of gene transcription. Surprisingly, transfection of siRNAs directed against PIP5KI and PIP4KII resulted in higher Syntenin-2 expression with the highest effect mediated by siPIP5KIα. HPV8-E6 was able to counteract siPIP4KIIα, siPIP4KIIβ and siPIP5KIγ mediated Syntenin-2 re-expression but not siPIP5KIα. Finally, we identified Syntenin-2 as a key factor regulating PIP5KIα expression. Collectively, our data demonstrates that Syntenin-2 is regulated through multiple mechanisms and that downregulation of Syntenin-2 expression may contribute to E6 mediated dedifferentiation of infected skin cells.

The Receptor Binding Domain of Botulinum Neurotoxin Stereotype C Binds Phosphoinositides

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Yanfeng; Varnum, Susan M.

2012-03-01

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are the most toxic proteins known for humans and animals with an extremely low LD50 of {approx} 1 ng/kg. BoNTs generally require a protein and a ganglioside on the cell membrane surface for binding, which is known as a 'dual receptor' mechanism for host intoxication. Recent studies have suggested that in addition to gangliosides, other membrane lipids such as phosphoinositides may be involved in the interactions with the receptor binding domain (HCR) of BoNTs for better membrane penetration. Here, using two independent lipid-binding assays, we tested the interactions of BoNT/C-HCR with lipids in vitro. BoNT/C-HCR was foundmore » to bind negatively charged phospholipids, preferentially phosphoinositides. Additional interactions to phosphoinositides may help BoNT/C bind membrane more tightly and transduct signals for subsequent steps of intoxication. Our results provide new insights into the mechanisms of host cell membrane recognition by BoNTs.« less