Sample records for b alanyl-1 histidine

  1. Effects of Carnosine (Beta-Alanyl-L-Histidine) in an Experimental Rat Model of Acute Kidney Injury Due to Septic Shock

    PubMed Central

    Sahin, Sabiha; Donmez, Dilek Burukoglu

    2018-01-01

    Background Acute kidney injury (AKI) secondary to sepsis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the human intensive care unit (ICU). Kidney function and the histological findings of AKI were investigated in an experimental rat model with sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and compared with and without treatment with carnosine (beta-alanyl-L-histidine). Material/Methods Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups consisting eight rats in each: Group 1 – control; Group 2 – septic shock; and Group 3 – septic shock treated with carnosine. Femoral vein and artery catheterization were applied in all rats. Rats in Group 1 underwent laparotomy and catheterization. The other two groups with septic shock underwent laparotomy, CLP, catheterization, and bladder cannulation. Rats in Group 3 received an intraperitoneal (IP) injection of 250 mg/kg carnosine, 60 min following CLP. Rats were monitored for blood pressure, pulse rate, and body temperature to assess responses to postoperative sepsis, and 10 mL/kg saline replacement was administered. Twenty-four hours following CLP, rats were sacrificed, and blood and renal tissue samples were collected. Results Statistically significant improvements were observed in kidney function, tissue and serum malondialdehyde levels, routine blood values, biochemical indices, and in histopathological findings in rats in Group 3 who were treated with carnosine, compared with Group 2 exposed to septic shock without carnosine treatment. Conclusions Carnosine (beta-alanyl-L-histidine) has been shown to have beneficial effects in reducing AKI due to septic shock in a rat model of septicemia. PMID:29334583

  2. Biological functions of histidine-dipeptides and metabolic syndrome.

    PubMed

    Song, Byeng Chun; Joo, Nam-Seok; Aldini, Giancarlo; Yeum, Kyung-Jin

    2014-02-01

    The rapid increase in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome, which is associated with a state of elevated systemic oxidative stress and inflammation, is expected to cause future increases in the prevalence of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids and sugars produces reactive carbonyl species, which, due to their electrophilic nature, react with the nucleophilic sites of certain amino acids. This leads to formation of protein adducts such as advanced glycoxidation/lipoxidation end products (AGEs/ALEs), resulting in cellular dysfunction. Therefore, an effective reactive carbonyl species and AGEs/ALEs sequestering agent may be able to prevent such cellular dysfunction. There is accumulating evidence that histidine containing dipeptides such as carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) and anserine (β-alanyl-methyl-L-histidine) detoxify cytotoxic reactive carbonyls by forming unreactive adducts and are able to reverse glycated protein. In this review, 1) reaction mechanism of oxidative stress and certain chronic diseases, 2) interrelation between oxidative stress and inflammation, 3) effective reactive carbonyl species and AGEs/ALEs sequestering actions of histidine-dipeptides and their metabolism, 4) effects of carnosinase encoding gene on the effectiveness of histidine-dipeptides, and 5) protective effects of histidine-dipeptides against progression of metabolic syndrome are discussed. Overall, this review highlights the potential beneficial effects of histidine-dipeptides against metabolic syndrome. Randomized controlled human studies may provide essential information regarding whether histidine-dipeptides attenuate metabolic syndrome in humans.

  3. Advanced drug delivery of N-acetylcarnosine (N-acetyl-beta-alanyl-L-histidine), carcinine (beta-alanylhistamine) and L-carnosine (beta-alanyl-L-histidine) in targeting peptide compounds as pharmacological chaperones for use in tissue engineering, human disease management and therapy: from in vitro to the clinic.

    PubMed

    Babizhayev, Mark A; Yegorov, Yegor E

    2010-11-01

    A pharmacological chaperone is a relatively new concept in the treatment of certain chronic disabling diseases. Cells maintain a complete set of functionally competent proteins normally and in the face of injury or environmental stress with the use of various mechanisms, including systems of proteins called molecular chaperones. Proteins that are denatured by any form of proteotoxic stress are cooperatively recognized by heat shock proteins (HSP) and directed for refolding or degradation. Under non-denaturing conditions HSP have important functions in cell physiology such as in transmembrane protein transport and in enabling assembly and folding of newly synthesized polypeptides. Besides cellular molecular chaperones, which are stress-induced proteins, there have been recently reported chemical, or so-called pharmacological chaperones with demonstrated ability to be effective in preventing misfolding of different disease causing proteins, specifically in the therapeutic management of sight-threatening eye diseases, essentially reducing the severity of several neurodegenerative disorders (such as age-related macular degeneration), cataract and many other protein-misfolding diseases. This work reviews the biological and therapeutic activities protected with the patents of the family of imidazole-containing peptidomimetics Carcinine (β-alanylhistamine), N-acetylcarnosine (N-acetyl-β-alanylhistidine) and Carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) which are essential constituents possessing diverse biological and pharmacological chaperone properties in human tissues.

  4. Assembly of D-alanyl-lipoteichoic acid in Lactobacillus casei: mutants deficient in the D-alanyl ester content of this amphiphile

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

    Ntamere, A.S.; Taron, D.J.; Neuhaus, F.C.

    D-Alanyl-lipoteichoic acid (D-alanyl-LTA) from Lactobacillus casei ATCC 7469 contains a poly(glycerophosphate) moiety that is acylated with D-alanyl ester residues. The physiological function of these residues is not well understood. Five mutant strains of this organism that are deficient in the esters of this amphiphile were isolated and characterized. When compared with the parent, strains AN-1 and AN-4 incorporated less than 10% of D-(/sup 14/C)alanine into LTA, whereas AN-2, AN-3, and AN-5 incorporated 50%. The synthesis of D-(/sup 14/C)alanyl-lipophilic LTA was virtually absent in the first group and was approximately 30% in the second group. The mutant strains synthesized and selectedmore » the glycolipid anchor for LTA assembly. In addition, all of the strains synthesized the poly(glycerophosphate) moiety of LTA to the same extent as did the parent or to a greater extent. It was concluded that the membranes from the mutant strains AN-1 and AN-4 are defective for D-alanylation of LTA even though acceptor LTA is present. Mutant strains AN-2 and AN-3 appear to be partially deficient in the amount of the D-alanine-activating enzyme. Aberrant morphology and defective cell separation appear to result from this deficiency in D-alanyl ester content.« less

  5. Glycyl-alanyl-histidine protects PC12 cells against hydrogen peroxide toxicity.

    PubMed

    Shimura, Hideki; Tanaka, Ryota; Shimada, Yoshiaki; Yamashiro, Kazuo; Hattori, Nobutaka; Urabe, Takao

    2017-11-22

    Peptides with cytoprotective functions, including antioxidants and anti-infectives, could be useful therapeutics. Carnosine, β-alanine-histidine, is a dipeptide with anti-oxidant properties. Tripeptides of Ala-His-Lys, Pro-His-His, or Tyr-His-Tyr are also of interest in this respect. We synthesized several histidine-containing peptides including glycine or alanine, and tested their cytoprotective effects on hydrogen peroxide toxicity for PC12 cells. Of all these peptides (Gly-His-His, Ala-His-His, Ala-His-Ala, Ala-Ala-His, Ala-Gly-His, Gly-Ala-His (GAH), Ala-His-Gly, His-Ala-Gly, His-His-His, Gly-His-Ala, and Gly-Gly-His), GAH was found to have the strongest cytoprotective activity. GAH decreased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage, apoptosis, morphological changes, and nuclear membrane permeability changes against hydrogen peroxide toxicity in PC12 cells. The cytoprotective activity of GAH was superior to that of carnosine against hydrogen peroxide toxicity in PC12 cells. GAH also protected PC12 cells against damage caused by actinomycin D and staurosporine. Additionally, it was found that GAH also protected SH-SY5Y and Jurkat cells from damage caused by hydrogen peroxide, as assessed by LDH leakage. Thus, a novel tripeptide, GAH, has been identified as having broad cytoprotective effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced cell damage.

  6. Pharmacokinetics of stable isotopically labeled L-histidine in humans and the assessment of in vivo histidine ammonia lyase activities.

    PubMed

    Furuta, T; Okamiya, K; Shibasaki, H; Kasuya, Y

    1996-01-01

    The pharmacokinetics of L-histidine in humans has been investigated to evaluate the in vivo histidine ammonia lyase system for the conversion of L-histidine to urocanic acid. Two healthy volunteers (subjects A and B) received a single 100-mg oral dose of L-[3,3-2H2,1',3'-15N2]histidine. Blood and urine samples were obtained over 24 hr after the administration and analyzed by stable isotope dilution ms. Labeled L-histidine was rapidly absorbed, and a maximum plasma concentration of L-histidine was observed at 30 min (1057.6 ng/ml) in subject A and at 60 min (1635.6 ng/ml) in subject B after oral administration. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated based on a two-compartment model. Labeled L-histidine in subject A (t1/2 = 1.0 hr) was eliminated approximately twice faster than that in subject B (t1/2 = 1.9 hr). Total body clearances were 70.0 liters/hr in subject A and 30.0 liters/hr in subject B. The low ratios of the renal clearance to the total body clearance (1.04% for subject A and 0.43% for subject B) indicated that most of L-histidine was eliminated via the nonrenal processes. L-Histidine was rapidly metabolized to urocanic acid. Maximum plasma concentrations of urocanic acid were 59.61 ng/ml at 30 min for subject A and 46.10 ng/ml at 60 min for subject B. The slope of the plot of urinary excretion rate of urocanic acid vs. the plasma concentration of unchanged L-histidine was demonstrated to reflect the metabolic clearance of L-histidine to urocanic acid. The method of evaluating the in vivo human histidine ammonia lyase activities discussed in this study offers a significant value with regard to the biochemical and clinical elucidations of the heterogeneity of histidinemia.

  7. Biosynthesis of D-alanyl-lipoteichoic acid by Lactobacillus casei: interchain transacylation of D-alanyl ester residues

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

    Childs, W.C. 3d.; Taron, D.J.; Neuhaus, F.C.

    Lipoteichoic acid (LTA) from Lactobacillus casei contains poly(glycerophosphate) substituted with D-alanyl ester residues. The distribution of these residues in the in vitro-synthesized polymer is uniform. Esterification of LTA with D-alanine may occur in one of two modes: (i) addition at random or (ii) addition at a defined locus in the poly(glycerophosphate) chain followed by redistribution of the ester residues. A time-dependent transacylation of these residues from D-(/sup 14/C)alanyl-lipophilic LTA to hydrophilic acceptor was observed. The hydrophilic acceptor was characterized as D-alanyl-hydrophilic LTA. This transacylation requires neither ATP nor the D-alanine incorporation system, i.e., the D-alanine activating enzyme and D-alanine:membrane acceptormore » ligase. No evidence for an enzyme-catalyzed transacylation reaction was observed. The authors propose that this process of transacylation may be responsible for the redistribution of D-alanyl residues after esterification to the poly(glycerophosphate). As a result, it is difficult to distinguish between these proposed modes of addition.« less

  8. Histidine phosphorylation relieves copper inhibition in the mammalian potassium channel KCa3.1

    PubMed Central

    Srivastava, Shekhar; Panda, Saswati; Li, Zhai; Fuhs, Stephen R; Hunter, Tony; Thiele, Dennis J; Hubbard, Stevan R; Skolnik, Edward Y

    2016-01-01

    KCa2.1, KCa2.2, KCa2.3 and KCa3.1 constitute a family of mammalian small- to intermediate-conductance potassium channels that are activated by calcium-calmodulin. KCa3.1 is unique among these four channels in that activation requires, in addition to calcium, phosphorylation of a single histidine residue (His358) in the cytoplasmic region, by nucleoside diphosphate kinase-B (NDPK-B). The mechanism by which KCa3.1 is activated by histidine phosphorylation is unknown. Histidine phosphorylation is well characterized in prokaryotes but poorly understood in eukaryotes. Here, we demonstrate that phosphorylation of His358 activates KCa3.1 by antagonizing copper-mediated inhibition of the channel. Furthermore, we show that activated CD4+ T cells deficient in intracellular copper exhibit increased KCa3.1 histidine phosphorylation and channel activity, leading to increased calcium flux and cytokine production. These findings reveal a novel regulatory mechanism for a mammalian potassium channel and for T-cell activation, and highlight a unique feature of histidine versus serine/threonine and tyrosine as a regulatory phosphorylation site. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.16093.001 PMID:27542194

  9. Histidine at Position 195 is Essential for Association of Heme-b in Lcp1VH2

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Oetermann, Sylvia; Vivod, Robin; Hiessl, Sebastian; Hogeback, Jens; Holtkamp, Michael; Karst, Uwe; Steinbüchel, Alexander

    2018-03-01

    The latex clearing protein (Lcp) is the key enzyme of polyisoprene degradation in actinomycetes (Yikmis and Steinbüchel in Appl Environ Microbiol 78:4543-4551, https://doi.org/10.1128/AEM.00001-12, 2012). In this study it was shown that Lcp from Gordonia polyisoprenivorans VH2 (Lcp1VH2) harbors a non-covalently bound heme b as cofactor, which was identified by pyridine hemochrome spectra and confirmed by LC/ESI-ToF-MS. It contains iron, most likely in the Fe3+ state. We focused on the characterization of the heme-cofactor, its accessibility with respect to the conformation of Lcp1VH2, and the identification of putative histidine residues involved in the coordination of heme. A change was detectable in UV/Vis-spectra of reduced Lcp1VH2 when imidazole was added, showing that Lcp1VH2 "as isolated" occurs in an open state, directly being accessible for external ligands. In addition, three highly conserved histidines (H195, H200 and H228), presumably acting as ligands coordinating the heme within the heme pocket, were replaced with alanines by site-directed mutagenesis. The effect of these changes on in vivo rubber-mineralization was investigated. The lcp- deletion mutant complemented with the H195A variant of lcp1 VH2 was unable to mineralize poly(cis-1,4-isoprene). In vitro analyses of purified, recombinant Lcp1VH2H195A confirmed the loss of enzyme activity, which could be ascribed to the loss of heme. Hence, H195 is essential for the association of heme-b in the central region of Lcp1VH2.

  10. Histidine at Position 195 is Essential for Association of Heme- b in Lcp1VH2

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Oetermann, Sylvia; Vivod, Robin; Hiessl, Sebastian; Hogeback, Jens; Holtkamp, Michael; Karst, Uwe; Steinbüchel, Alexander

    2018-05-01

    The latex clearing protein (Lcp) is the key enzyme of polyisoprene degradation in actinomycetes (Yikmis and Steinbüchel in Appl Environ Microbiol 78:4543-4551, https://doi.org/10.1128/AEM.00001-12 , 2012). In this study it was shown that Lcp from Gordonia polyisoprenivorans VH2 (Lcp1VH2) harbors a non-covalently bound heme b as cofactor, which was identified by pyridine hemochrome spectra and confirmed by LC/ESI-ToF-MS. It contains iron, most likely in the Fe3+ state. We focused on the characterization of the heme-cofactor, its accessibility with respect to the conformation of Lcp1VH2, and the identification of putative histidine residues involved in the coordination of heme. A change was detectable in UV/Vis-spectra of reduced Lcp1VH2 when imidazole was added, showing that Lcp1VH2 "as isolated" occurs in an open state, directly being accessible for external ligands. In addition, three highly conserved histidines (H195, H200 and H228), presumably acting as ligands coordinating the heme within the heme pocket, were replaced with alanines by site-directed mutagenesis. The effect of these changes on in vivo rubber-mineralization was investigated. The lcp- deletion mutant complemented with the H195A variant of lcp1 VH2 was unable to mineralize poly( cis-1,4-isoprene). In vitro analyses of purified, recombinant Lcp1VH2H195A confirmed the loss of enzyme activity, which could be ascribed to the loss of heme. Hence, H195 is essential for the association of heme- b in the central region of Lcp1VH2.

  11. Regioselective copper-catalyzed N(1)-(hetero)arylation of protected histidine.

    PubMed

    Sharma, Krishna K; Mandloi, Meenakshi; Jain, Rahul

    2016-09-26

    We report regioselective N(1)-arylation of protected histidine using copper(i) iodide as a catalyst, trans-N,N'-dimethylcyclohexane-1,2-diamine as a ligand and readily available aryl iodides as coupling partners under microwave irradiation at 130 °C for 40 min. The reaction provides rapid access to electron-donating, electron-withdrawing and bulky group substituted N-arylated histidines in high yields, including previously inaccessible N-heteroaryl histidines. These N(1)-(hetero)aryl histidines are promising building blocks in peptide-based drug design and discovery.

  12. The histidine permease gene (HIP1) of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

    PubMed

    Tanaka, J; Fink, G R

    1985-01-01

    The histidine-specific permease gene (HIP1) of Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been mapped, cloned, and sequenced. The HIP1 gene maps to the right arm of chromosome VII, approx. 11 cM distal to the ADE3 gene. The gene was isolated as an 8.6-kb BamHI-Sau3A fragment by complementation of the histidine-specific permease deficiency in recipient yeast cells. We sequenced a 2.4-kb subfragment of this BamHI-Sau3A fragment containing the HIP1 gene and identified a 1596-bp open reading frame (ORF). We confirmed the assignment of the 1596-bp ORF as the HIP1 coding sequence by sequencing a hip1 nonsense mutation. Analysis of the amino acid (aa) sequence of the HIP1 gene reveals several hydrophobic stretches, but shows no obvious N-terminal signal peptide. We have constructed a deletion of the HIP1 gene in vitro and replaced the wild-type copy of the gene with this deletion. The hip1 deletion mutant can grow when it is supplemented with 30 mM histidine, 50 times the amount required for the growth of HIP1 cells. Revertants of this deletion mutant able to grow on a normal level of histidine arise by mutation in unlinked genes. Both these observations suggest that there are additional, low-affinity pathways for histidine uptake.

  13. D-alanylation of lipoteichoic acid contributes to the virulence of Streptococcus suis.

    PubMed

    Fittipaldi, Nahuel; Sekizaki, Tsutomu; Takamatsu, Daisuke; Harel, Josée; Domínguez-Punaro, María de la Cruz; Von Aulock, Sonja; Draing, Christian; Marois, Corinne; Kobisch, Marylène; Gottschalk, Marcelo

    2008-08-01

    We generated by allelic replacement a DeltadltA mutant of a virulent Streptococcus suis serotype 2 field strain and evaluated the contribution of lipoteichoic acid (LTA) d-alanylation to the virulence traits of this swine pathogen and zoonotic agent. The absence of LTA D-alanylation resulted in increased susceptibility to the action of cationic antimicrobial peptides. In addition, and in contrast to the wild-type strain, the DeltadltA mutant was efficiently killed by porcine neutrophils and showed diminished adherence to and invasion of porcine brain microvascular endothelial cells. Finally, the DeltadltA mutant was attenuated in both the CD1 mouse and porcine models of infection, probably reflecting a decreased ability to escape immune clearance mechanisms and an impaired capacity to move across host barriers. The results of this study suggest that LTA D-alanylation is an important factor in S. suis virulence.

  14. Structure and synthesis of histopine, a histidine derivative produced by crown gall tumors

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

    Bates, H.A.; Kaushal, A.; Deng, P.N.

    1984-07-03

    Histopine, an unusual amino acid derivative of histidine isolated from crown gall tumors of sunflowers (Helianthus annus) inoculated with Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain B/sub 6/, was previously assigned the gross structure N-(1-carboxyethyl)histidine. A diastereomeric mixture containing histopine was readily prepared by reductive alkylation of (S)-histidine with pyruvic acid and sodium cyanoborohydride. The individual diastereomers were prepared by reaction of (S)-histidine with (R)- and (S)-2-bromopropionic acid. (R)-N-(1-Carboxyethyl)-(S)-histidine supports the growth of A. tumefaciens whereas (S)-N-(1-carboxyethyl)-(S)-histidine is inactive.

  15. Insertional Inactivation of Genes Responsible for the d-Alanylation of Lipoteichoic Acid in Streptococcus gordonii DL1 (Challis) Affects Intrageneric Coaggregations

    PubMed Central

    Clemans, Daniel L.; Kolenbrander, Paul E.; Debabov, Dmitri V.; Zhang, Qunying; Lunsford, R. Dwayne; Sakone, Holly; Whittaker, Catherine J.; Heaton, Michael P.; Neuhaus, Francis C.

    1999-01-01

    Most human oral viridans streptococci participate in intrageneric coaggregations, the cell-to-cell adherence among genetically distinct streptococci. Two genes relevant to these intrageneric coaggregations were identified by transposon Tn916 mutagenesis of Streptococcus gordonii DL1 (Challis). A 626-bp sequence flanking the left end of the transposon was homologous to dltA and dltB of Lactobacillus rhamnosus ATCC 7469 (formerly called Lactobacillus casei). A 60-kb probe based on this flanking sequence was used to identify the homologous DNA in a fosmid library of S. gordonii DL1. This DNA encoded d-alanine-d-alanyl carrier protein ligase that was expressed in Escherichia coli from the fosmid clone. The cloned streptococcal dltA was disrupted by inserting an ermAM cassette, and then it was linearized and transformed into S. gordonii DL1 for allelic replacement. Erythromycin-resistant transformants containing a single insertion in dltA exhibited a loss of d-alanyl esters in lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and a loss of intrageneric coaggregation. This phenotype was correlated with the loss of a 100-kDa surface protein reported previously to be involved in mediating intrageneric coaggregation (C. J. Whittaker, D. L. Clemans, and P. E. Kolenbrander, Infect. Immun. 64:4137–4142, 1996). The mutants retained the parental ability to participate in intergeneric coaggregation with human oral actinomyces, indicating the specificity of the mutation in altering intrageneric coaggregations. The mutants were altered morphologically and exhibited aberrant cell septa in a variety of pleomorphs. The natural DNA transformation frequency was reduced 10-fold in these mutants. Southern analysis of chromosomal DNAs from various streptococcal species with the dltA probe revealed the presence of this gene in most viridans streptococci. Thus, it is hypothesized that d-alanyl LTA may provide binding sites for the putative 100-kDa adhesin and scaffolding for the proper presentation of this adhesin

  16. Insertional inactivation of genes responsible for the D-alanylation of lipoteichoic acid in Streptococcus gordonii DL1 (Challis) affects intrageneric coaggregations.

    PubMed

    Clemans, D L; Kolenbrander, P E; Debabov, D V; Zhang, Q; Lunsford, R D; Sakone, H; Whittaker, C J; Heaton, M P; Neuhaus, F C

    1999-05-01

    Most human oral viridans streptococci participate in intrageneric coaggregations, the cell-to-cell adherence among genetically distinct streptococci. Two genes relevant to these intrageneric coaggregations were identified by transposon Tn916 mutagenesis of Streptococcus gordonii DL1 (Challis). A 626-bp sequence flanking the left end of the transposon was homologous to dltA and dltB of Lactobacillus rhamnosus ATCC 7469 (formerly called Lactobacillus casei). A 60-kb probe based on this flanking sequence was used to identify the homologous DNA in a fosmid library of S. gordonii DL1. This DNA encoded D-alanine-D-alanyl carrier protein ligase that was expressed in Escherichia coli from the fosmid clone. The cloned streptococcal dltA was disrupted by inserting an ermAM cassette, and then it was linearized and transformed into S. gordonii DL1 for allelic replacement. Erythromycin-resistant transformants containing a single insertion in dltA exhibited a loss of D-alanyl esters in lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and a loss of intrageneric coaggregation. This phenotype was correlated with the loss of a 100-kDa surface protein reported previously to be involved in mediating intrageneric coaggregation (C. J. Whittaker, D. L. Clemans, and P. E. Kolenbrander, Infect. Immun. 64:4137-4142, 1996). The mutants retained the parental ability to participate in intergeneric coaggregation with human oral actinomyces, indicating the specificity of the mutation in altering intrageneric coaggregations. The mutants were altered morphologically and exhibited aberrant cell septa in a variety of pleomorphs. The natural DNA transformation frequency was reduced 10-fold in these mutants. Southern analysis of chromosomal DNAs from various streptococcal species with the dltA probe revealed the presence of this gene in most viridans streptococci. Thus, it is hypothesized that D-alanyl LTA may provide binding sites for the putative 100-kDa adhesin and scaffolding for the proper presentation of this adhesin to

  17. DdlN from Vancomycin-Producing Amycolatopsis orientalis C329.2 Is a VanA Homologue with d-Alanyl-d-Lactate Ligase Activity

    PubMed Central

    Marshall, C. Gary; Wright, Gerard D.

    1998-01-01

    Vancomycin-resistant enterococci acquire high-level resistance to glycopeptide antibiotics through the synthesis of peptidoglycan terminating in d-alanyl-d-lactate. A key enzyme in this process is a d-alanyl-d-alanine ligase homologue, VanA or VanB, which preferentially catalyzes the synthesis of the depsipeptide d-alanyl-d-lactate. We report the overexpression, purification, and enzymatic characterization of DdlN, a VanA and VanB homologue encoded by a gene of the vancomycin-producing organism Amycolatopsis orientalis C329.2. Evaluation of kinetic parameters for the synthesis of peptides and depsipeptides revealed a close relationship between VanA and DdlN in that depsipeptide formation was kinetically preferred at physiologic pH; however, the DdlN enzyme demonstrated a narrower substrate specificity and commensurately increased affinity for d-lactate in the C-terminal position over VanA. The results of these functional experiments also reinforce the results of previous studies that demonstrated that glycopeptide resistance enzymes from glycopeptide-producing bacteria are potential sources of resistance enzymes in clinically relevant bacteria. PMID:9791137

  18. The multiple roles of histidine in protein interactions

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Among the 20 natural amino acids histidine is the most active and versatile member that plays the multiple roles in protein interactions, often the key residue in enzyme catalytic reactions. A theoretical and comprehensive study on the structural features and interaction properties of histidine is certainly helpful. Results Four interaction types of histidine are quantitatively calculated, including: (1) Cation-π interactions, in which the histidine acts as the aromatic π-motif in neutral form (His), or plays the cation role in protonated form (His+); (2) π-π stacking interactions between histidine and other aromatic amino acids; (3) Hydrogen-π interactions between histidine and other aromatic amino acids; (4) Coordinate interactions between histidine and metallic cations. The energies of π-π stacking interactions and hydrogen-π interactions are calculated using CCSD/6-31+G(d,p). The energies of cation-π interactions and coordinate interactions are calculated using B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) method and adjusted by empirical method for dispersion energy. Conclusions The coordinate interactions between histidine and metallic cations are the strongest one acting in broad range, followed by the cation-π, hydrogen-π, and π-π stacking interactions. When the histidine is in neutral form, the cation-π interactions are attractive; when it is protonated (His+), the interactions turn to repulsive. The two protonation forms (and pKa values) of histidine are reversibly switched by the attractive and repulsive cation-π interactions. In proteins the π-π stacking interaction between neutral histidine and aromatic amino acids (Phe, Tyr, Trp) are in the range from -3.0 to -4.0 kcal/mol, significantly larger than the van der Waals energies. PMID:23452343

  19. Chromatographic HPV-16 E6/E7 plasmid vaccine purification employing L-histidine and 1-benzyl-L-histidine affinity ligands.

    PubMed

    Amorim, Lúcia F A; Gaspar, Rita; Pereira, Patrícia; Černigoj, Urh; Sousa, Fani; Queiroz, João António; Sousa, Ângela

    2017-11-01

    Affinity chromatography based on amino acids as interacting ligands was already indicated as an alternative compared to ion exchange or hydrophobic interaction for plasmid DNA purification. Understanding the recognition mechanisms occurring between histidine-based ligands and nucleic acids enables more efficient purification of a DNA vaccine, as the binding and elution conditions can be adjusted in order to enhance the purification performance. Decreasing pH to slightly acidic conditions increases the positive charge of histidine ligand, what influences the type of interaction between chromatographic support and analytes. This was proven in this work, where hydrophobic effects established in the presence of ammonium sulfate were affected at pH 5.0 in comparison to pH 8.0, while electrostatic and cation-π interactions were intensified. Histidine ligand at pH 5.0 interacts with phosphate groups or aromatic rings of plasmid DNA. Due to different responses of RNA and pDNA on mobile phase changes, the elution order between RNA and pDNA was changed with mobile phase pH decrease from 8.0 to 5.0. The phenomenon was more evident with L-histidine ligand due to more hydrophilic character, leading to an improved selectivity of L-histidine-modified chromatographic monolith, allowing the product recovery with 99% of purity (RNA removal). With the 1-benzyl- L-histidine ligand, stronger and less selective interactions with the nucleic acids were observed due to the additional hydrophobicity associated with the phenyl aromatic ring. Optimization of sample displacement chromatography parameters (especially (NH 4 ) 2 SO 4 concentration) at slightly acidic pH enabled excellent isolation of pDNA, by the removal of RNA in a negative mode, with binding capacities above 1.5 mg pDNA per mL of chromatographic support. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  20. Alanyl-glutamine dipeptide-supplemented parenteral nutrition improves intestinal metabolism and prevents increased permeability in rats.

    PubMed Central

    Haque, S M; Chen, K; Usui, N; Iiboshi, Y; Okuyama, H; Masunari, A; Cui, L; Nezu, R; Takagi, Y; Okada, A

    1996-01-01

    OBJECTIVE: The authors determined the effects of alanyl-glutamine-supplemented total parenteral nutrition (TPN) on mucosal metabolism, integrity, and permeability of the small intestine in rats. METHODS: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to receive TPN supplemented with a conventional amino acids mixture (STD group) or the same solution supplemented with alanyl-glutamine; both solutions were isocaloric and isonitrogenous. On the seventh day of TPN, D-xylose and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran were administered orally. One hour later, superior mesenteric vein (SMV) D-xylose and plasma FITC-dextran concentration were measured. Intestinal blood flow and calculated intestinal substrates flux were measured with ultrasonic transit time flowmetery. RESULTS: Plasma FITC-dextran increased significantly in the STD group. Intestinal blood flow and SMV D-xylose concentration did not differ between the groups. Mucosa weight, villus height, mucosal wall thickness, mucosal protein, and DNA and RNA content in jejunal mucosa were significantly increased in the alanyl-glutamine group. Jejunal mucosal glutaminase activity and net intestinal uptake of glutamine (glutamine flux) were significantly higher in the alanyl-glutamine group as compared with the STD group. CONCLUSION: Addition of alanyl-glutamine dipeptide to the TPN solution improves intestinal glutamine metabolism and prevents mucosal atrophy and deterioration of permeability. PMID:8604914

  1. Effect of dietary electrolytes and histidine on histidine metabolism and acid-base balance in rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri)

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Chiu, Y.N.; Austic, R.E.; Rumsey, G.L.

    1984-01-01

    1. Rainbow trout fingerlings were fed diets containing 1.2, 1.8 and 2.6% histidine and two mixtures of Na, K and Cl (Na + K - Cl = 0 or -200 meq/kgdiet) in a factorial design.2. Growth and efficiency of feed conversion were not affected by histidine in the diet when it contained the −200 meq/kg electrolyte mixture, but with the 0 meq/kg level, 2.6% histidine depressed both measures of response.3. Histidine increased plasma and muscle histidine levels, increased hepatic histidase activity, but did not affect hepatic histidine-pyruvate aminotransferase activity.4. Muscle-free histidine concentrations were markedly higher and lysine concentrations were lower in trout receiving 0 meq/kg than those receiving the −200 meq/kg electrolyte mixture.5. The electrolyte balance of the diet has a marked effect on the metabolism of histidine in trout.

  2. Histidine biosynthesis plays a crucial role in metal homeostasis and virulence of Aspergillus fumigatus

    PubMed Central

    Dietl, Anna-Maria; Amich, Jorge; Leal, Sixto; Beckmann, Nicola; Binder, Ulrike; Beilhack, Andreas; Pearlman, Eric; Haas, Hubertus

    2016-01-01

    Abstract Aspergillus fumigatus is the most prevalent airborne fungal pathogen causing invasive fungal infections in immunosuppressed individuals. The histidine biosynthetic pathway is found in bacteria, archaebacteria, lower eukaryotes, and plants, but is absent in mammals. Here we demonstrate that deletion of the gene encoding imidazoleglycerol-phosphate dehydratase (HisB) in A. fumigatus causes (i) histidine auxotrophy, (ii) decreased resistance to both starvation and excess of various heavy metals, including iron, copper and zinc, which play a pivotal role in antimicrobial host defense, (iii) attenuation of pathogenicity in 4 virulence models: murine pulmonary infection, murine systemic infection, murine corneal infection, and wax moth larvae. In agreement with the in vivo importance of histidine biosynthesis, the HisB inhibitor 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole reduced the virulence of the A. fumigatus wild type and histidine supplementation partially rescued virulence of the histidine-auxotrophic mutant in the wax moth model. Taken together, this study reveals limited histidine availability in diverse A. fumigatus host niches, a crucial role for histidine in metal homeostasis, and the histidine biosynthetic pathway as being an attractive target for development of novel antifungal therapy approaches. PMID:26854126

  3. Histidine biosynthesis plays a crucial role in metal homeostasis and virulence of Aspergillus fumigatus.

    PubMed

    Dietl, Anna-Maria; Amich, Jorge; Leal, Sixto; Beckmann, Nicola; Binder, Ulrike; Beilhack, Andreas; Pearlman, Eric; Haas, Hubertus

    2016-05-18

    Aspergillus fumigatus is the most prevalent airborne fungal pathogen causing invasive fungal infections in immunosuppressed individuals. The histidine biosynthetic pathway is found in bacteria, archaebacteria, lower eukaryotes, and plants, but is absent in mammals. Here we demonstrate that deletion of the gene encoding imidazoleglycerol-phosphate dehydratase (HisB) in A. fumigatus causes (i) histidine auxotrophy, (ii) decreased resistance to both starvation and excess of various heavy metals, including iron, copper and zinc, which play a pivotal role in antimicrobial host defense, (iii) attenuation of pathogenicity in 4 virulence models: murine pulmonary infection, murine systemic infection, murine corneal infection, and wax moth larvae. In agreement with the in vivo importance of histidine biosynthesis, the HisB inhibitor 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole reduced the virulence of the A. fumigatus wild type and histidine supplementation partially rescued virulence of the histidine-auxotrophic mutant in the wax moth model. Taken together, this study reveals limited histidine availability in diverse A. fumigatus host niches, a crucial role for histidine in metal homeostasis, and the histidine biosynthetic pathway as being an attractive target for development of novel antifungal therapy approaches.

  4. Biosynthesis of Lipoteichoic Acid in Lactobacillus rhamnosus: Role of DltD in d-Alanylation

    PubMed Central

    Debabov, Dmitri V.; Kiriukhin, Michael Y.; Neuhaus, Francis C.

    2000-01-01

    The dlt operon (dltA to dltD) of Lactobacillus rhamnosus 7469 encodes four proteins responsible for the esterification of lipoteichoic acid (LTA) by d-alanine. These esters play an important role in controlling the net anionic charge of the poly (GroP) moiety of LTA. dltA and dltC encode the d-alanine–d-alanyl carrier protein ligase (Dcl) and d-alanyl carrier protein (Dcp), respectively. Whereas the functions of DltA and DltC are defined, the functions of DltB and DltD are unknown. To define the role of DltD, the gene was cloned and sequenced and a mutant was constructed by insertional mutagenesis of dltD from Lactobacillus casei 102S. Permeabilized cells of a dltD::erm mutant lacked the ability to incorporate d-alanine into LTA. This defect was complemented by the expression of DltD from pNZ123/dlt. In in vitro assays, DltD bound Dcp for ligation with d-alanine by Dcl in the presence of ATP. In contrast, the homologue of Dcp, the Escherichia coli acyl carrier protein (ACP), involved in fatty acid biosynthesis, was not bound to DltD and thus was not ligated with d-alanine. DltD also catalyzed the hydrolysis of the mischarged d-alanyl–ACP. The hydrophobic N-terminal sequence of DltD was required for anchoring the protein in the membrane. It is hypothesized that this membrane-associated DltD facilitates the binding of Dcp and Dcl for ligation of Dcp with d-alanine and that the resulting d-alanyl–Dcp is translocated to the primary site of d-alanylation. PMID:10781555

  5. Double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial on intravenous L-alanyl-L-glutamine in the incidence of oral mucositis following chemoradiotherapy in patients with head-and-neck cancer

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

    Cerchietti, Leandro C.A.; Navigante, Alfredo H.; Internal Medicine Department, Instituto de Oncologia Angel H. Roffo, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires

    2006-08-01

    Purpose: We performed this double-blinded, placebo-controlled study to determine the safety and efficacy of L-alanyl-L-glutamine in the prevention of mucositis in patients with head-and-neck cancer. Methods and Materials: Thirty-two patients with head-and-neck cancer were treated with chemoradiotherapy (CRT) (radiotherapy daily up to 70 Gy plus cisplatin/5-fluoruracil once a week) and were asked to participate. Twenty-nine patients received the CRT schedule and were double-blindly assigned to receive either intravenous L-alanyl-L-glutamine 0.4 g/kg weight/day or an equal volume of saline (placebo) during chemotherapy days. Results: Fourteen patients received L-alanyl-L-glutamine and 15 received placebo. Mucositis was assessed by the Objective Mucositis Score (OMS)more » and the World Health Organization (WHO) grading system. There was a significant difference in incidence of mucositis developed in patients receiving placebo compared with those who received L-alanyl-L-glutamine (p = 0.035). The number of patients with severe objective mucositis (OMS >1.49) was higher in the placebo group compared with the L-alanyl-L-glutamine group (67% vs. 14%, p 0.007). L-alanyl-L-glutamine patients experienced less pain (three highest Numeric Rating Scale scores of 1.3/10 vs. 6.3/10 respectively, p = 0.008) and need for feeding tubes (14% vs. 60% respectively, p = 0.020) compared with placebo patients. No adverse effects related to the drug or the infusions were noted in either group. Conclusion: For patients with head-and-neck cancer receiving CRT, intravenous L-alanyl-L-glutamine may be an effective preventive measure to decrease the severity of mucositis.« less

  6. The Effect of Cisplatin on Blood Ammonia Elevation by Alanyl-Glutamine Supplementation.

    PubMed

    Obayashi, Yoko; Kajiwara, Kenta; Nakamura, Eiji

    2018-01-01

    Although there are many clinical studies in which the beneficial effect of glutamine formulation on mucositis induced by chemo/radiotherapy was evaluated, the results are sometimes conflicting with the report of clinical deterioration. Then, we hypothesized that chemotherapy may increase the incidence of hyperammonemia without comparable change of major parameters of hepatic/renal disorder. To verify our hypothesis, we examined the increase in blood ammonia level with 1-h intravenous infusion of alanyl-glutamine on day 1-4 after cisplatin (CDDP) administration in rats and assessed the correlation with hepatic/renal parameters. Hepatic parameters (glutamate-oxaloacetic transaminase [GOT] and glutamic-pyruvic transaminase [GPT]) with CDDP did not change until day 3 and only GOT increased on day 4. Renal parameters (plasma creatinine, blood urea nitrogen) with CDDP continuously increased up to day 4. Alanyl-glutamine infusion significantly elevated blood ammonia level of CDDP rats with the peak on day 3, although the same dose did not change that of control rats. These results indicates that CDDP enhances the increase in blood ammonia level by glutamine supplementation without correlating with primary parameters for hepatic/renal dysfunction. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  7. How to Switch Off a Histidine Kinase: Crystal Structure of Geobacillus Stearothermophilus KinB with the Inhibitor Sda

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

    Bick, M.; Lamour, V; Rajashankar, K

    2009-01-01

    Entry to sporulation in bacilli is governed by a histidine kinase phosphorelay, a variation of the predominant signal transduction mechanism in prokaryotes. Sda directly inhibits sporulation histidine kinases in response to DNA damage and replication defects. We determined a 2.0-Angstroms-resolution X-ray crystal structure of the intact cytoplasmic catalytic core [comprising the dimerization and histidine phosphotransfer domain (DHp domain), connected to the ATP binding catalytic domain] of the Geobacillus stearothermophilus sporulation kinase KinB complexed with Sda. Structural and biochemical analyses reveal that Sda binds to the base of the DHp domain and prevents molecular transactions with the DHp domain to whichmore » it is bound by acting as a simple molecular barricade. Sda acts to sterically block communication between the catalytic domain and the DHp domain, which is required for autophosphorylation, as well as to sterically block communication between the response regulator Spo0F and the DHp domain, which is required for phosphotransfer and phosphatase activities.« less

  8. Nuclear localization of the dehydrin OpsDHN1 is determined by histidine-rich motif.

    PubMed

    Hernández-Sánchez, Itzell E; Maruri-López, Israel; Ferrando, Alejandro; Carbonell, Juan; Graether, Steffen P; Jiménez-Bremont, Juan F

    2015-01-01

    The cactus OpsDHN1 dehydrin belongs to a large family of disordered and highly hydrophilic proteins known as Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins, which accumulate during the late stages of embryogenesis and in response to abiotic stresses. Herein, we present the in vivo OpsDHN1 subcellular localization by N-terminal GFP translational fusion; our results revealed a cytoplasmic and nuclear localization of the GFP::OpsDHN1 protein in Nicotiana benthamiana epidermal cells. In addition, dimer assembly of OpsDHN1 in planta using a Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation (BiFC) approach was demonstrated. In order to understand the in vivo role of the histidine-rich motif, the OpsDHN1-ΔHis version was produced and assayed for its subcellular localization and dimer capability by GFP fusion and BiFC assays, respectively. We found that deletion of the OpsDHN1 histidine-rich motif restricted its localization to cytoplasm, but did not affect dimer formation. In addition, the deletion of the S-segment in the OpsDHN1 protein affected its nuclear localization. Our data suggest that the deletion of histidine-rich motif and S-segment show similar effects, preventing OpsDHN1 from getting into the nucleus. Based on these results, the histidine-rich motif is proposed as a targeting element for OpsDHN1 nuclear localization.

  9. Nuclear localization of the dehydrin OpsDHN1 is determined by histidine-rich motif

    PubMed Central

    Hernández-Sánchez, Itzell E.; Maruri-López, Israel; Ferrando, Alejandro; Carbonell, Juan; Graether, Steffen P.; Jiménez-Bremont, Juan F.

    2015-01-01

    The cactus OpsDHN1 dehydrin belongs to a large family of disordered and highly hydrophilic proteins known as Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins, which accumulate during the late stages of embryogenesis and in response to abiotic stresses. Herein, we present the in vivo OpsDHN1 subcellular localization by N-terminal GFP translational fusion; our results revealed a cytoplasmic and nuclear localization of the GFP::OpsDHN1 protein in Nicotiana benthamiana epidermal cells. In addition, dimer assembly of OpsDHN1 in planta using a Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation (BiFC) approach was demonstrated. In order to understand the in vivo role of the histidine-rich motif, the OpsDHN1-ΔHis version was produced and assayed for its subcellular localization and dimer capability by GFP fusion and BiFC assays, respectively. We found that deletion of the OpsDHN1 histidine-rich motif restricted its localization to cytoplasm, but did not affect dimer formation. In addition, the deletion of the S-segment in the OpsDHN1 protein affected its nuclear localization. Our data suggest that the deletion of histidine-rich motif and S-segment show similar effects, preventing OpsDHN1 from getting into the nucleus. Based on these results, the histidine-rich motif is proposed as a targeting element for OpsDHN1 nuclear localization. PMID:26442018

  10. Synthesis and activity of histidine-containing catalytic peptide dendrimers.

    PubMed

    Delort, Estelle; Nguyen-Trung, Nhat-Quang; Darbre, Tamis; Reymond, Jean-Louis

    2006-06-09

    Peptide dendrimers built by iteration of the diamino acid dendron Dap-His-Ser (His = histidine, Ser = Serine, Dap = diamino propionic acid) display a strong positive dendritic effect for the catalytic hydrolysis of 8-acyloxypyrene 1,3,6-trisulfonates, which proceeds with enzyme-like kinetics in aqueous medium (Delort, E.; Darbre, T.; Reymond, J.-L. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2004, 126, 15642-3). Thirty-two mutants of the original third generation dendrimer A3 ((Ac-His-Ser)8(Dap-His-Ser)4(Dap-His-Ser)2Dap-His-Ser-NH2) were prepared by manual synthesis or by automated synthesis with use of a Chemspeed PSW1100 peptide synthesizer. Dendrimer catalysis was specific for 8-acyloxypyrene 1,3,6-trisulfonates, and there was no activity with other types of esters. While dendrimers with hydrophobic residues at the core and histidine residues at the surface only showed weak activity, exchanging serine residues in dendrimer A3 against alanine (A3A), beta-alanine (A3B), or threonine (A3C) improved catalytic efficiency. Substrate binding was correlated with the total number of histidines per dendrimer, with an average of three histidines per substrate binding site. The catalytic rate constant kcat depended on the placement of histidines within the dendrimers and the nature of the other amino acid residues. The fastest catalyst was the threonine mutant A3C ((Ac-His-Thr)8(Dap-His-Thr)4(Dap-His-Thr)2Dap-His-Thr-NH2), with kcat = 1.3 min(-1), kcat/k(uncat) = 90'000, KM = 160 microM for 8-bytyryloxypyrene 1,3,6-trisulfonate, corresponding to a rate acceleration of 18'000 per catalytic site and a 5-fold improvement over the original sequence A3.

  11. Sensomics-Based Molecularization of the Taste of Pot-au-Feu, a Traditional Meat/Vegetable Broth.

    PubMed

    Kranz, Maximilian; Viton, Florian; Smarrito-Menozzi, Candice; Hofmann, Thomas

    2018-01-10

    Targeted quantification of 49 basic taste-active molecules, followed by the calculation of dose-over-threshold (DoT) factors, and taste re-engineering experiments revealed minerals, nucleotides/nucleosides, amino acids, organic acids, and carbohydrates as the key compounds of Pot-au-Feu, a traditional broth preparation from beef cuts and vegetables. Moreover, the dipeptide carnosine was identified to be the key inducer for the white-meaty and thick-sour orosensation of the broth, next to anserine and 1-deoxy-d-fructosyl-N-β-alanyl-l-histidine, the latter of which has been identified for the first time by means of a sensory-guided fractionation. Sensory studies revealed the threshold concentration of carnosine in model broth to decrease by a factor of 5 upon nonenzymatic glycosylation to reach 4.4 mmol/L for its Amadori product 1-deoxy-d-fructosyl-N-β-alanyl-l-histidine.

  12. The effects of chromium picolinate and chromium histidinate administration on NF-κB and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in the brain of diabetic rats.

    PubMed

    Sahin, Kazim; Tuzcu, Mehmet; Orhan, Cemal; Gencoglu, Hasan; Ulas, Mustafa; Atalay, Mustafa; Sahin, Nurhan; Hayirli, Armagan; Komorowski, James R

    2012-12-01

    The objective of this experiment was to investigate the effects of supplemental chromium picolinate (CrPic) and chromium histidinate (CrHis) on nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB p65) and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway in diabetic rat brain. Nondiabetic (n = 45) and diabetic (n = 45) male Wistar rats were either not supplemented or supplemented with CrPic or CrHis via drinking water to consume 8 μg elemental chromium (Cr) per day for 12 weeks. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin injection (40 mg/kg i.p., for 2 weeks) and maintained by high-fat feeding (40 %). Diabetes was associated with increases in cerebral NF-κB and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) protein adducts and decreased in cerebral nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B cells inhibitor, alpha (IκBα) and Nrf2 levels. Both Cr chelates were effective to decrease levels of NF-κB and 4-HNE protein adducts and to increase levels of IκBα and Nrf2 in the brain of diabetic rats. However, responses of these increases and decreases were more notable when Cr was supplemented as CrHis than as CrPic. In conclusion, Cr may play a protective role in cerebral antioxidant defense system in diabetic subjects via the Nrf2 pathway by reducing inflammation through NF-κB p65 inhibition. Histidinate form of Cr was superior to picolinate form of Cr in reducing NF-κB expression and increasing Nrf2 expression in the brain of diabetic rats.

  13. Requirement of histidine 217 for ubiquinone reductase activity (Qi site) in the cytochrome bc1 complex.

    PubMed

    Gray, K A; Dutton, P L; Daldal, F

    1994-01-25

    Folding models suggest that the highly conserved histidine 217 of the cytochrome b subunit from the cytochrome bc1 complex is close to the quinone reductase (Qi) site. This histidine (bH217) in the cytochrome b polypeptide of the photosynthetic bacterium Rhodobacter capsulatus has been replaced with three other residues, aspartate (D), arginine (R), and leucine (L). bH217D and bH217R are able to grow photoheterotrophically and contain active cytochrome bc1 complexes (60% of wild-type activity), whereas the bH217L mutant is photosynthetically incompetent and contains a cytochrome bc1 complex that has only 10% of the wild-type activity. Single-turnover flash-activated electron transfer experiments show that cytochrome bH is reduced via the Qo site with near native rates in the mutant strains but that electron transfer between cytochrome bH and quinone bound at the Qi site is greatly slowed. These results are consistent with redox midpoint potential (Em) measurements of the cytochrome b subunit hemes and the Qi site quinone. The Em values of cyt bL and bH are approximately the same in the mutants and wild type, although the mutant strains have a larger relative concentration of what may be the high-potential form of cytochrome bH, called cytochrome b150. However, the redox properties of the semiquinone at the Qi site are altered significantly. The Qi site semiquinone stability constant of bH217R is 10 times higher than in the wild type, while in the other two strains (bH217D and bH217L) the stability constant is much lower than in the wild type. Thus H217 appears to have major effects on the redox properties of the quinone bound at the Qi site. These data are incorporated into a suggestion that H217 forms part of the binding pocket of the Qi site in a manner reminiscent of the interaction between quinone bound at the Qb site and H190 of the L subunit of the bacterial photosynthetic reaction center.

  14. Visualizing autophosphorylation in histidine kinases.

    PubMed

    Casino, Patricia; Miguel-Romero, Laura; Marina, Alberto

    2014-01-01

    Reversible protein phosphorylation is the most widespread regulatory mechanism in signal transduction. Autophosphorylation in a dimeric sensor histidine kinase is the first step in two-component signalling, the predominant signal-transduction device in bacteria. Despite being the most abundant sensor kinases in nature, the molecular bases of the histidine kinase autophosphorylation mechanism are still unknown. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that autophosphorylation can occur in two directions, cis (intrasubunit) or trans (intersubunit) within the dimeric histidine kinase. Here, we present the crystal structure of the complete catalytic machinery of a chimeric histidine kinase. The structure shows an asymmetric histidine kinase dimer where one subunit is caught performing the autophosphorylation reaction. A structure-guided functional analysis on HK853 and EnvZ, two prototypical cis- and trans-phosphorylating histidine kinases, has allowed us to decipher the catalytic mechanism of histidine kinase autophosphorylation, which seems to be common independently of the reaction directionality.

  15. DltX of Bacillus thuringiensis Is Essential for D-Alanylation of Teichoic Acids and Resistance to Antimicrobial Response in Insects

    PubMed Central

    Kamar, Rita; Réjasse, Agnès; Jéhanno, Isabelle; Attieh, Zaynoun; Courtin, Pascal; Chapot-Chartier, Marie-Pierre; Nielsen-Leroux, Christina; Lereclus, Didier; el Chamy, Laure; Kallassy, Mireille; Sanchis-Borja, Vincent

    2017-01-01

    The dlt operon of Gram-positive bacteria is required for the incorporation of D-alanine esters into cell wall-associated teichoic acids (TAs). Addition of D-alanine to TAs reduces the negative charge of the cell envelope thereby preventing cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) from reaching their target of action on the bacterial surface. In most gram-positive bacteria, this operon consists of five genes dltXABCD but the involvement of the first ORF (dltX) encoding a small protein of unknown function, has never been investigated. The aim of this study was to establish whether this protein is involved in the D-alanylation process in Bacillus thuringiensis. We, therefore constructed an in frame deletion mutant of dltX, without affecting the expression of the other genes of the operon. The growth characteristics of the dltX mutant and those of the wild type strain were similar under standard in vitro conditions. However, disruption of dltX drastically impaired the resistance of B. thuringiensis to CAMPs and significantly attenuated its virulence in two insect species. Moreover, high-performance liquid chromatography studies showed that the dltX mutant was devoid of D-alanine, and electrophoretic mobility measurements indicated that the cells carried a higher negative surface charge. Scanning electron microscopy experiments showed morphological alterations of these mutant bacteria, suggesting that depletion of D-alanine from TAs affects cell wall structure. Our findings suggest that DltX is essential for the incorporation of D-alanyl esters into TAs. Therefore, DltX plays a direct role in the resistance to CAMPs, thus contributing to the survival of B. thuringiensis in insects. To our knowledge, this work is the first report examining the involvement of dltX in the D-alanylation of TAs. PMID:28824570

  16. The protein histidine phosphatase LHPP is a tumour suppressor.

    PubMed

    Hindupur, Sravanth K; Colombi, Marco; Fuhs, Stephen R; Matter, Matthias S; Guri, Yakir; Adam, Kevin; Cornu, Marion; Piscuoglio, Salvatore; Ng, Charlotte K Y; Betz, Charles; Liko, Dritan; Quagliata, Luca; Moes, Suzette; Jenoe, Paul; Terracciano, Luigi M; Heim, Markus H; Hunter, Tony; Hall, Michael N

    2018-03-29

    Histidine phosphorylation, the so-called hidden phosphoproteome, is a poorly characterized post-translational modification of proteins. Here we describe a role of histidine phosphorylation in tumorigenesis. Proteomic analysis of 12 tumours from an mTOR-driven hepatocellular carcinoma mouse model revealed that NME1 and NME2, the only known mammalian histidine kinases, were upregulated. Conversely, expression of the putative histidine phosphatase LHPP was downregulated specifically in the tumours. We demonstrate that LHPP is indeed a protein histidine phosphatase. Consistent with these observations, global histidine phosphorylation was significantly upregulated in the liver tumours. Sustained, hepatic expression of LHPP in the hepatocellular carcinoma mouse model reduced tumour burden and prevented the loss of liver function. Finally, in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, low expression of LHPP correlated with increased tumour severity and reduced overall survival. Thus, LHPP is a protein histidine phosphatase and tumour suppressor, suggesting that deregulated histidine phosphorylation is oncogenic.

  17. Generation of a proton motive force by histidine decarboxylation and electrogenic histidine/histamine antiport in Lactobacillus buchneri.

    PubMed

    Molenaar, D; Bosscher, J S; ten Brink, B; Driessen, A J; Konings, W N

    1993-05-01

    Lactobacillus buchneri ST2A vigorously decarboxylates histidine to the biogenic amine histamine, which is excreted into the medium. Cells grown in the presence of histidine generate both a transmembrane pH gradient, inside alkaline, and an electrical potential (delta psi), inside negative, upon addition of histidine. Studies of the mechanism of histidine uptake and histamine excretion in membrane vesicles and proteoliposomes devoid of cytosolic histidine decarboxylase activity demonstrate that histidine uptake, histamine efflux, and histidine/histamine exchange are electrogenic processes. Histidine/histamine exchange is much faster than the unidirectional fluxes of these substrates, is inhibited by an inside-negative delta psi and is stimulated by an inside positive delta psi. These data suggest that the generation of metabolic energy from histidine decarboxylation results from an electrogenic histidine/histamine exchange and indirect proton extrusion due to the combined action of the decarboxylase and carrier-mediated exchange. The abundance of amino acid decarboxylation reactions among bacteria suggests that this mechanism of metabolic energy generation and/or pH regulation is widespread.

  18. Human Neuronal Calcium Sensor-1 Protein Avoids Histidine Residues To Decrease pH Sensitivity.

    PubMed

    Gong, Yehong; Zhu, Yuzhen; Zou, Yu; Ma, Buyong; Nussinov, Ruth; Zhang, Qingwen

    2017-01-26

    pH is highly regulated in mammalian central nervous systems. Neuronal calcium sensor-1 (NCS-1) can interact with numerous target proteins. Compared to that in the NCS-1 protein of Caenorhabditis elegans, evolution has avoided the placement of histidine residues at positions 102 and 83 in the NCS-1 protein of humans and Xenopus laevis, possibly to decrease the conformational sensitivity to pH gradients in synaptic processes. We used all-atom molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the effects of amino acid substitutions between species on human NCS-1 by substituting Arg102 and Ser83 for histidine at neutral (R102H and S83H) and acidic pHs (R102H p and S83H p ). Our cumulative 5 μs simulations revealed that the R102H mutation slightly increases the structural flexibility of loop L2 and the R102H p mutation decreases protein stability. Community network analysis illustrates that the R102H and S83H mutations weaken the interdomain and strengthen the intradomain communications. Secondary structure contents in the S83H and S83H p mutants are similar to those in the wild type, whereas the global structural stabilities and salt-bridge probabilities decrease. This study highlights the conformational dynamics effects of the R102H and S83H mutations on the local structural flexibility and global stability of NCS-1, whereas protonated histidine decreases the stability of NCS-1. Thus, histidines at positions 102 and 83 may not be compatible with the function of NCS-1 whether in the neutral or protonated state.

  19. Arabidopsis Response Regulator1 and Arabidopsis Histidine Phosphotransfer Protein2 (AHP2), AHP3, and AHP5 Function in Cold Signaling1[W][OA

    PubMed Central

    Jeon, Jin; Kim, Jungmook

    2013-01-01

    The Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) two-component signaling system, which is composed of sensor histidine kinases, histidine phosphotransfer proteins, and response regulators, mediates the cytokinin response and various other plant responses. We have previously shown that ARABIDOPSIS HISTIDINE KINASE2 (AHK2), AHK3, and cold-inducible type A ARABIDOPSIS RESPONSE REGULATORS (ARRs) play roles in cold signaling. However, the roles of type B ARRs and ARABIDOPSIS HISTIDINE PHOSPHOTRANSFER PROTEINS (AHPs) have not been investigated in cold signaling. Here, we show that ARR1 and AHP2, AHP3, and AHP5 play positive roles in the cold-inducible expression of type A ARRs. arr1 mutants showed greatly reduced cold-responsive expression of type A ARRs compared with the wild type, whereas ARR1-overexpressing Arabidopsis exhibited the hypersensitive cold response of type A ARRs as well as enhanced freezing tolerance with cytokinin, suggesting that ARR1 functions as a positive factor of cold signaling. Transgenic Arabidopsis expressing ARR1ΔDDK:GR lacking the amino-terminal receiver domain showed wild-type expression levels of type A ARRs in response to cold, indicating that the signal receiver domain of ARR1 might be important for cold-responsive expression of type A ARRs. ahp2 ahp3 ahp5 triple mutations greatly reduced type A ARR expression in response to cold, whereas the single or double ahp mutants displayed wild-type levels of ARR expression, suggesting that AHP2, AHP3, and AHP5 are redundantly involved in cold signaling. Taken together, these results suggest that ARR1 mediates cold signal via AHP2, AHP3, or AHP5 from AHK2 and AHK3 to express type A ARRs. We further identified a cold transcriptome affected by ahk2 ahk3 mutations by microarray analysis, revealing a new cold-responsive gene network regulated downstream of AHK2 and AHK3. PMID:23124324

  20. Discovery and characterization of a photo-oxidative histidine-histidine cross-link in IgG1 antibody utilizing ¹⁸O-labeling and mass spectrometry.

    PubMed

    Liu, Min; Zhang, Zhongqi; Cheetham, Janet; Ren, Da; Zhou, Zhaohui Sunny

    2014-05-20

    A novel photo-oxidative cross-linking between two histidines (His-His) has been discovered and characterized in an IgG1 antibody via the workflow of XChem-Finder, (18)O labeling and mass spectrometry (Anal. Chem. 2013, 85, 5900-5908). Its structure was elucidated by peptide mapping with multiple proteases with various specificities (e.g., trypsin, Asp-N, and GluC combined with trypsin or Asp-N) and mass spectrometry with complementary fragmentation modes (e.g., collision-induced dissociation (CID) and electron-transfer dissociation (ETD)). Our data indicated that cross-linking occurred across two identical conserved histidine residues on two separate heavy chains in the hinge region, which is highly flexible and solvent accessible. On the basis of model studies with short peptides, it has been proposed that singlet oxygen reacts with the histidyl imidazole ring to form an endoperoxide and then converted to the 2-oxo-histidine (2-oxo-His) and His+32 intermediates, the latter is subject to a nucleophilic attack by the unmodified histidine; and finally, elimination of a water molecule leads to the final adduct with a net mass increase of 14 Da. Our findings are consistent with this mechanism. Successful discovery of cross-linked His-His again demonstrates the broad applicability and utility of our XChem-Finder approach in the discovery and elucidation of protein cross-linking, particularly without a priori knowledge of the chemical nature and site of cross-linking.

  1. Capture and separation of l-histidine through optimized zinc-decorated magnetic silica spheres.

    PubMed

    Cardoso, Vanessa F; Sebastián, Víctor; Silva, Carlos J R; Botelho, Gabriela; Lanceros-Méndez, Senentxu

    2017-09-01

    Zinc-decorated magnetic silica spheres were developed, optimized and tested for the capture and separation of l-histidine. The magnetic silica spheres were prepared using a simple sol-gel method and show excellent magnetic characteristics, adsorption capacity toward metal ions, and stability in aqueous solution in a wide pH range. The binding capacity of zinc-decorated magnetic silica spheres to histidine proved to be strongly influenced by the morphology, composition and concentration of metal at the surface of the magnetic silica spheres and therefore these parameters should be carefully controlled in order to maximize the performance for protein purification purposes. Optimized zinc-decorated magnetic silica spheres demonstrate a binding capacity to l-histidine of approximately 44mgg -1 at the optimum binding pH buffer. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Genome-wide transcription analysis of histidine-related cataract in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L)

    PubMed Central

    Waagbø, Rune; Breck, Olav; Stavrum, Anne-Kristin; Petersen, Kjell; Olsvik, Pål A.

    2009-01-01

    Purpose Elevated levels of dietary histidine have previously been shown to prevent or mitigate cataract formation in farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L). The aim of this study was to shed light on the mechanisms by which histidine acts. Applying microarray analysis to the lens transcriptome, we screened for differentially expressed genes in search for a model explaining cataract development in Atlantic salmon and possible markers for early cataract diagnosis. Methods Adult Atlantic salmon (1.7 kg) were fed three standard commercial salmon diets only differing in the histidine content (9, 13, and 17 g histidine/kg diet) for four months. Individual cataract scores for both eyes were assessed by slit-lamp biomicroscopy. Lens N-acetyl histidine contents were measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Total RNA extracted from whole lenses was analyzed using the GRASP 16K salmonid microarray. The microarray data were analyzed using J-Express Pro 2.7 and validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT–PCR). Results Fish developed cataracts with different severity in response to dietary histidine levels. Lens N-acetyl histidine contents reflected the dietary histidine levels and were negatively correlated to cataract scores. Significance analysis of microarrays (SAM) revealed 248 significantly up-regulated transcripts and 266 significantly down-regulated transcripts in fish that were fed a low level of histidine compared to fish fed a higher histidine level. Among the differentially expressed transcripts were metallothionein A and B as well as transcripts involved in lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, regulation of ion homeostasis, and protein degradation. Hierarchical clustering and correspondence analysis plot confirmed differences in gene expression between the feeding groups. The differentially expressed genes could be categorized as “early” and “late” responsive according to their expression pattern relative to

  3. Partial purification and characterization of a novel histidine decarboxylase from Enterobacter aerogenes DL-1.

    PubMed

    Zou, Yu; Hu, Wenzhong; Jiang, Aili; Tian, Mixia

    2015-08-18

    Histidine decarboxylase (HDC) from Enterobacter aerogenes DL-1 was purified in a three-step procedure involving ammonium sulfate precipitation, Sephadex G-100, and DEAE-Sepharose column chromatography. The partially purified enzyme showed a single protein band of 52.4 kD on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The optimum pH for HDC activity was 6.5, and the enzyme was stable between pH 4 and 8. Enterobacter aerogenes HDC had optimal activity at 40°C and retained most of its activity between 4 and 50°C. HDC activity was reduced in the presence of numerous tested compounds. Particularly with SDS, it significantly (p < 0.01) inhibited enzyme activity. Conversely, Ca(2+) and Mn(2+) showed prominent activation effects (p < 0.01) with activity increasing to 117.20% and 123.42%, respectively. The Lineweaver-Burk plot showed that K m and V max values of the enzyme for L-histidine were 0.21 mM and 71.39 µmol/min, respectively. In comparison with most HDCs from other microorganisms and animals, HDC from E. aerogenes DL-1 displayed higher affinity and greater reaction velocity toward L-histidine.

  4. Variations in the Degree of d-Alanylation of Teichoic Acids in Lactococcus lactis Alter Resistance to Cationic Antimicrobials but Have No Effect on Bacterial Surface Hydrophobicity and Charge▿

    PubMed Central

    Giaouris, Efstathios; Briandet, Romain; Meyrand, Mickael; Courtin, Pascal; Chapot-Chartier, Marie-Pierre

    2008-01-01

    An increase of the degree of d-alanylation of teichoic acids in Lactococcus lactis resulted in a significant increase of bacterial resistance toward the cationic antimicrobials nisin and lysozyme, whereas the absence of d-alanylation led to a decreased resistance toward the same compounds. In contrast, the same variations of the d-alanylation degree did not modify bacterial cell surface charge and hydrophobicity. Bacterial adhesion to polystyrene and glass surfaces was not modified either. PMID:18539809

  5. [Ionization energies and infrared spectra studies of histidine using density functional theory].

    PubMed

    Hu, Qiong; Wang, Guo-Ying; Liu, Gang; Ou, Jia-Ming; Wang, Rui-Li

    2010-05-01

    Histidines provide axial ligands to the primary electron donors in photosynthetic reaction centers (RCs) and play an important role in the protein environments of these donors. In this paper the authors present a systematic study of ionization energies and vibrational properties of histidine using hybrid density functional theory (DFT). All calculations were undertaken by using B3LYP method in combination with four basis sets: 6-31G(d), 6-31G(df, p), 6-31+G(d) and 6-311+G(2d, 2p) with the aim to investigate how the basis sets influence the calculation results. To investigate solvent effects and gain a detailed understanding of marker bands of histidine, the ionization energies of histidine and the vibrational frequencies of histidine which are unlabeled and 13C, 15N, and 2H labeled in the gas phase, CCl4, protein environment, THF and water solution, which span a wide range of dielectric constant, were also calculated. Our results showed that: (1) The main geometry parameters of histidine were impacted by basis sets and mediums, and C2-N3 and N3-C4 bond of imidazole ring of histidine side chain display the maximum bond lengths in the gas phase; (2) single point energies and frequencies calculated were decreased while ionization energies increased with the increasing level of basis sets and diffuse function applied in the same solvent; (3) with the same computational method, the higher the dielectric constant of the solvent used, the lower the ionization energy and vibrational frequency and the higher the intensity obtained. In addition, calculated ionization energy in the gas phase and marker bands of histidine as well as frequency shift upon 13C and 15N labeling at the computationally more expensive 6-311+G(2d, 2p) level are in good agreement with experimental observations available in literatures. All calculations indicated that the results calculated by using higher level basis set with diffuse function were more accurate and closer to the experimental value. In

  6. 21 CFR 862.1375 - Histidine test system.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... free histidine (an amino acid) in plasma and urine. Histidine measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of hereditary histidinemia characterized by excess histidine in the blood and urine...

  7. 21 CFR 862.1375 - Histidine test system.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... free histidine (an amino acid) in plasma and urine. Histidine measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of hereditary histidinemia characterized by excess histidine in the blood and urine...

  8. Histidine augments the suppression of hepatic glucose production by central insulin action.

    PubMed

    Kimura, Kumi; Nakamura, Yusuke; Inaba, Yuka; Matsumoto, Michihiro; Kido, Yoshiaki; Asahara, Shun-Ichiro; Matsuda, Tomokazu; Watanabe, Hiroshi; Maeda, Akifumi; Inagaki, Fuyuhiko; Mukai, Chisato; Takeda, Kiyoshi; Akira, Shizuo; Ota, Tsuguhito; Nakabayashi, Hajime; Kaneko, Shuichi; Kasuga, Masato; Inoue, Hiroshi

    2013-07-01

    Glucose intolerance in type 2 diabetes is related to enhanced hepatic glucose production (HGP) due to the increased expression of hepatic gluconeogenic enzymes. Previously, we revealed that hepatic STAT3 decreases the expression of hepatic gluconeogenic enzymes and suppresses HGP. Here, we show that increased plasma histidine results in hepatic STAT3 activation. Intravenous and intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration of histidine-activated hepatic STAT3 reduced G6Pase protein and mRNA levels and augmented HGP suppression by insulin. This suppression of hepatic gluconeogenesis by histidine was abolished by hepatic STAT3 deficiency or hepatic Kupffer cell depletion. Inhibition of HGP by histidine was also blocked by ICV administration of a histamine H1 receptor antagonist. Therefore, histidine activates hepatic STAT3 and suppresses HGP via central histamine action. Hepatic STAT3 phosphorylation after histidine ICV administration was attenuated in histamine H1 receptor knockout (Hrh1KO) mice but not in neuron-specific insulin receptor knockout (NIRKO) mice. Conversely, hepatic STAT3 phosphorylation after insulin ICV administration was attenuated in NIRKO but not in Hrh1KO mice. These findings suggest that central histidine action is independent of central insulin action, while both have additive effects on HGP suppression. Our results indicate that central histidine/histamine-mediated suppression of HGP is a potential target for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

  9. Histidine Augments the Suppression of Hepatic Glucose Production by Central Insulin Action

    PubMed Central

    Kimura, Kumi; Nakamura, Yusuke; Inaba, Yuka; Matsumoto, Michihiro; Kido, Yoshiaki; Asahara, Shun-ichiro; Matsuda, Tomokazu; Watanabe, Hiroshi; Maeda, Akifumi; Inagaki, Fuyuhiko; Mukai, Chisato; Takeda, Kiyoshi; Akira, Shizuo; Ota, Tsuguhito; Nakabayashi, Hajime; Kaneko, Shuichi; Kasuga, Masato; Inoue, Hiroshi

    2013-01-01

    Glucose intolerance in type 2 diabetes is related to enhanced hepatic glucose production (HGP) due to the increased expression of hepatic gluconeogenic enzymes. Previously, we revealed that hepatic STAT3 decreases the expression of hepatic gluconeogenic enzymes and suppresses HGP. Here, we show that increased plasma histidine results in hepatic STAT3 activation. Intravenous and intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration of histidine-activated hepatic STAT3 reduced G6Pase protein and mRNA levels and augmented HGP suppression by insulin. This suppression of hepatic gluconeogenesis by histidine was abolished by hepatic STAT3 deficiency or hepatic Kupffer cell depletion. Inhibition of HGP by histidine was also blocked by ICV administration of a histamine H1 receptor antagonist. Therefore, histidine activates hepatic STAT3 and suppresses HGP via central histamine action. Hepatic STAT3 phosphorylation after histidine ICV administration was attenuated in histamine H1 receptor knockout (Hrh1KO) mice but not in neuron-specific insulin receptor knockout (NIRKO) mice. Conversely, hepatic STAT3 phosphorylation after insulin ICV administration was attenuated in NIRKO but not in Hrh1KO mice. These findings suggest that central histidine action is independent of central insulin action, while both have additive effects on HGP suppression. Our results indicate that central histidine/histamine-mediated suppression of HGP is a potential target for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. PMID:23474485

  10. Characterization of PhPRP1, a histidine domain arabinogalactan protein from Petunia hybrida pistils.

    PubMed

    Twomey, Megan C; Brooks, Jenna K; Corey, Jillaine M; Singh-Cundy, Anu

    2013-10-15

    An arabinogalactan protein, PhPRP1, was purified from Petunia hybrida pistils and shown to be orthologous to TTS-1 and TTS-2 from Nicotiana tabacum and NaTTS from Nicotiana alata. Sequence comparisons among these proteins, and CaPRP1 from Capsicum annuum, reveal a conserved histidine-rich domain and two hypervariable domains. Immunoblots show that TTS-1 and PhPRP1 are also expressed in vegetative tissues of tobacco and petunia respectively. In contrast to the molecular mass heterogeneity displayed by the pistil proteins, the different isoforms found in seedlings, roots, and leaves each has a discrete size (37, 80, 160, and 200 kDa) on SDS-PAGE gels. On the basis of their chemistry, distinctive domain architecture, and the unique pattern of expression, we have named this group of proteins HD-AGPs (histidine domain-arabinogalactan proteins). Copyright © 2013 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

  11. Roles of histidine residues in plant vacuolar H(+)-pyrophosphatase.

    PubMed

    Hsiao, Yi Y; Van, Ru C; Hung, Shu H; Lin, Hsin H; Pan, Rong L

    2004-02-15

    Vacuolar proton pumping pyrophosphatase (H(+)-PPase; EC 3.6.1.1) plays a pivotal role in electrogenic translocation of protons from cytosol to the vacuolar lumen at the expense of PP(i) hydrolysis. Alignment analysis on amino acid sequence demonstrates that vacuolar H(+)-PPase of mung bean contains six highly conserved histidine residues. Previous evidence indicated possible involvement of histidine residue(s) in enzymatic activity and H(+)-translocation of vacuolar H(+)-PPase as determined by using histidine specific modifier, diethylpyrocarbonate [J. Protein Chem. 21 (2002) 51]. In this study, we further attempted to identify the roles of histidine residues in mung bean vacuolar H(+)-PPase by site-directed mutagenesis. A line of mutants with histidine residues singly replaced by alanine was constructed, over-expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and then used to determine their enzymatic activities and proton translocations. Among the mutants scrutinized, only the mutation of H716 significantly decreased the enzymatic activity, the proton transport, and the coupling ratio of vacuolar H(+)-PPase. The enzymatic activity of H716A is relatively resistant to inhibition by diethylpyrocarbonate as compared to wild-type and other mutants, indicating that H716 is probably the target residue for the attack by this modifier. The mutation at H716 of V-PPase shifted the optimum pH value but not the T(1/2) (pretreatment temperature at which half enzymatic activity is observed) for PP(i) hydrolytic activity. Mutation of histidine residues obviously induced conformational changes of vacuolar H(+)-PPase as determined by immunoblotting analysis after limited trypsin digestion. Furthermore, mutation of these histidine residues modified the inhibitory effects of F(-) and Na(+), but not that of Ca(2+). Single substitution of H704, H716 and H758 by alanine partially released the effect of K(+) stimulation, indicating possible location of K(+) binding in the vicinity of domains

  12. Exogenous addition of histidine reduces copper availability in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

    PubMed

    Watanabe, Daisuke; Kikushima, Rie; Aitoku, Miho; Nishimura, Akira; Ohtsu, Iwao; Nasuno, Ryo; Takagi, Hiroshi

    2014-07-07

    The basic amino acid histidine inhibited yeast cell growth more severely than lysine and arginine. Overexpression of CTR1 , which encodes a high-affinity copper transporter on the plasma membrane, or addition of copper to the medium alleviated this cytotoxicity. However, the intracellular level of copper ions was not decreased in the presence of excess histidine. These results indicate that histidine cytotoxicity is associated with low copper availability inside cells, not with impaired copper uptake. Furthermore, histidine did not affect cell growth under limited respiration conditions, suggesting that histidine cytotoxicity is involved in deficiency of mitochondrial copper.

  13. 21 CFR 862.1375 - Histidine test system.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... free histidine (an amino acid) in plasma and urine. Histidine measurements are used in the diagnosis... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Histidine test system. 862.1375 Section 862.1375 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED...

  14. 21 CFR 862.1375 - Histidine test system.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... free histidine (an amino acid) in plasma and urine. Histidine measurements are used in the diagnosis... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Histidine test system. 862.1375 Section 862.1375 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED...

  15. Effects of Histidine Supplementation on Global Serum and Urine 1H NMR-based Metabolomics and Serum Amino Acid Profiles in Obese Women from a Randomized Controlled Study.

    PubMed

    Du, Shanshan; Sun, Shuhong; Liu, Liyan; Zhang, Qiao; Guo, Fuchuan; Li, Chunlong; Feng, Rennan; Sun, Changhao

    2017-06-02

    The aim of current study was to investigate the metabolic changes associated with histidine supplementation in serum and urine metabolic signatures and serum amino acid (AA) profiles. Serum and urine 1 H NMR-based metabolomics and serum AA profiles were employed in 32 and 37 obese women with metabolic syndrome (MetS) intervened with placebo or histidine for 12 weeks. Multivariable statistical analysis were conducted to define characteristic metabolites. In serum 1 H NMR metabolic profiles, increases in histidine, glutamine, aspartate, glycine, choline, and trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) were observed; meanwhile, decreases in cholesterol, triglycerides, fatty acids and unsaturated lipids, acetone, and α/β-glucose were exhibited after histidine supplement. In urine 1 H NMR metabolic profiles, citrate, creatinine/creatine, methylguanidine, and betaine + TMAO were higher, while hippurate was lower in histidine supplement group. In serum AA profiles, 10 AAs changed after histidine supplementation, including increased histidine, glycine, alanine, lysine, asparagine, and tyrosine and decreased leucine, isoleucine, ornithine, and citrulline. The study showed a systemic metabolic response in serum and urine metabolomics and AA profiles to histidine supplementation, showing significantly changed metabolism in AAs, lipid, and glucose in obese women with MetS.

  16. Molecular interaction between lipoteichoic acids and Lactobacillus delbrueckii phages depends on D-alanyl and alpha-glucose substitution of poly(glycerophosphate) backbones.

    PubMed

    Räisänen, Liisa; Draing, Christian; Pfitzenmaier, Markus; Schubert, Karin; Jaakonsaari, Tiina; von Aulock, Sonja; Hartung, Thomas; Alatossava, Tapani

    2007-06-01

    Lipoteichoic acids (LTAs) have been shown to act as bacterial counterparts to the receptor binding proteins of LL-H, LL-H host range mutant LL-H-a21, and JCL1032. Here we have used LTAs purified by hydrophobic interaction chromatography from different phage-resistant and -sensitive strains of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. lactis. Nuclear magnetic resonance analyses revealed variation in the degree of alpha-glucosyl and D-alanyl substitution of the 1,3-linked poly(glycerophosphate) LTAs between the phage-sensitive and phage-resistant strains. Inactivation of phages was less effective if there was a high level of D-alanine residues in the LTA backbones. Prior incubation of the LTAs with alpha-glucose-specific lectin inhibited the LL-H phage inactivation. The overall level of decoration or the specific spatial combination of alpha-glucosyl-substituted, D-alanyl-substituted, and nonsubstituted glycerol residues may also affect phage adsorption.

  17. Molecular Interaction between Lipoteichoic Acids and Lactobacillus delbrueckii Phages Depends on d-Alanyl and α-Glucose Substitution of Poly(Glycerophosphate) Backbones▿

    PubMed Central

    Räisänen, Liisa; Draing, Christian; Pfitzenmaier, Markus; Schubert, Karin; Jaakonsaari, Tiina; von Aulock, Sonja; Hartung, Thomas; Alatossava, Tapani

    2007-01-01

    Lipoteichoic acids (LTAs) have been shown to act as bacterial counterparts to the receptor binding proteins of LL-H, LL-H host range mutant LL-H-a21, and JCL1032. Here we have used LTAs purified by hydrophobic interaction chromatography from different phage-resistant and -sensitive strains of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. lactis. Nuclear magnetic resonance analyses revealed variation in the degree of α-glucosyl and d-alanyl substitution of the 1,3-linked poly(glycerophosphate) LTAs between the phage-sensitive and phage-resistant strains. Inactivation of phages was less effective if there was a high level of d-alanine residues in the LTA backbones. Prior incubation of the LTAs with α-glucose-specific lectin inhibited the LL-H phage inactivation. The overall level of decoration or the specific spatial combination of α-glucosyl-substituted, d-alanyl-substituted, and nonsubstituted glycerol residues may also affect phage adsorption. PMID:17416656

  18. The Synthesis of L-Alanyl and β-Alanyl Derivatives of 2-Aminoacridone and Their Application in the Detection of Clinically-Important Microorganisms.

    PubMed

    Cellier, Marie; James, Arthur L; Orenga, Sylvain; Perry, John D; Turnbull, Graeme; Stanforth, Stephen P

    2016-01-01

    In clinical microbiology the speed with which pathogenic microorganisms may be detected has a direct impact on patient health. One important strategy used in the laboratory is the growth of cultures in the presence of an enzymatic substrate which, once transformed by the appropriate microbial enzyme, generates a detectable colour or fluorescence output. Such substrates have previously been prepared by our group and others and are available as commercial diagnostic kits, however they all suffer from some degree of diffusion when used in a solid growth medium. This diffusion complicates the detection and differentiation of species in polymicrobial cultures and so we sought to improve on our previous work. In this work we have prepared and evaluated a series of novel fluorogenic enzyme substrates based on N-substituted-2-aminoacridones. All of the prepared substrates were found to be suitable for the detection and differentiation of certain microorganisms, however those based on the 2-amino-10-benzylacridone core in particular showed no apparent diffusion when incorporated into solid growth media. On transformation these substrates generated brightly fluorescent colonies that are clearly contrasted with the background medium due to the difference in emission wavelength (λem 445-450 nm for the substrate, λem 550 nm for the product). Here we have shown that our L-alanyl aminopeptidase substrate, 2-(N-L-alanylamino)-10-benzylacridone, is particularly suited to the detection of Gram-negative bacteria, and our β-alanyl aminopeptidase substrate, 2-(N- β-alanylamino)-10-benzylacridone, to the detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Serratia marcescens when grown on solid media incorporating these substrates. The resulting fluorophore shows no apparent diffusion from the colonies of interest, and the enhanced sensitivity offered by fluorescent emission may allow for the detection of these organisms as microcolonies using automated fluorescence microscopy.

  19. Functions and ATP-binding responses of the twelve histidine residues in the TF1-ATPase beta subunit.

    PubMed

    Tozawa, K; Yagi, H; Hisamatsu, K; Ozawa, K; Yoshida, M; Akutsu, H

    2001-10-01

    The C2 proton signals of all (twelve) histidine residues of the TF1 beta subunit in the 1H-NMR spectrum have been identified and assigned by means of pH change experiments and site-directed substitution of histidines by glutamines. pH and ligand titration experiments were carried out for these signals. Furthermore, the ATPase activity of the reconstituted alpha3beta3gamma complex was examined for the twelve mutant beta subunits. Two of three conserved histidines, namely, His-119 and 324, were found to be important for expression of the ATPase activity. The former fixes the N-terminal domain to the central domain. His-324 is involved in the formation of the interface essential for the alpha3beta3gamma complex assembly. The other conserved residue, His-363, showed a very low pK(a), suggesting that it is involved in the tertiary structure formation. On the binding of a nucleotide, only the signals of His-173, 179, 200, and 324 shifted. These histidines are located in the hinge region, and its proximity, of the beta subunit. This observation provided further support for the conformational change of the beta monomer from the open to the closed form on the binding of a nucleotide proposed by us [Yagi et al. (1999) Biophys. J. 77, 2175-2183]. This conformational change should be one of the essential driving forces in the rotation of the alpha3beta3gamma complex.

  20. Perioperative Alanyl-Glutamine-Supplemented Parenteral Nutrition in Chronic Radiation Enteritis Patients With Surgical Intestinal Obstruction: A Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Study.

    PubMed

    Yao, Danhua; Zheng, Lei; Wang, Jian; Guo, Mingxiao; Yin, Jianyi; Li, Yousheng

    2016-04-01

    A prospective, randomized, controlled study was performed to evaluate the effects of perioperative alanyl-glutamine-supplemented parenteral nutrition (PN) support on the immunologic function, intestinal permeability, and nutrition status of surgical patients with chronic radiation enteritis (CRE)-induced intestinal obstruction. Patients who received 0.4 g/kg/d alanyl-glutamine and isonitrogenous PN were assigned to an alanyl-glutamine-supplemented PN (Gln-PN) group and a control group, respectively. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase and glutamine, body fat mass (FM), immunologic function, and intestinal permeability were measured before and after surgery. Serum glutamine levels of the Gln-PN group significantly exceeded that of the control group (P < .001; Gln-PN, baseline 460.7 ± 42.5 vs 523.3 ± 48.6 µmol/L on postoperative day 14 [POD14], P < .001; control, baseline 451.9 ± 44.0 vs 453.8 ± 42.3 µmol/L on POD14, P = .708). Lactulose/mannitol ratios of both groups decreased over time (Gln-PN, baseline 0.129 ± 0.0403 vs 0.024 ± 0.0107 on POD1 4; control, baseline 0.125 ± 0.0378 vs 0.044 ± 0.0126 on POD14, P < .001 in both groups). CD4/CD8-positive T-lymphocyte ratios significantly rose in both groups, with significant intergroup difference (P < .001; Gln-PN, baseline 1.36 ± 0.32 vs 1.82 ± 0.30 on POD14, P < .001; control, baseline 1.37 ± 0.25 vs 1.63 ± 0.31 on POD14, P < .001). In the Gln-PN group, FM increased from 3.68 ± 1.68 kg at baseline to 5.22 ± 1.42 kg on POD14 (P < .001). FM of control group increased from 3.84 ± 1.57 kg at baseline to 5.40 ± 1.54 kg on POD14 (P < .001). However, there were no significant intergroup differences (P = .614). Gln-PN significantly boosted the immune state and decreased the intestinal permeability of CRE patients. However, Gln-PN was not superior to standard PN in improving the nutrition state and intestinal motility of surgical patients with CRE-induced intestinal obstruction. © 2015 American Society

  1. An "enigmatic" L-carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine)? Cell proliferative activity as a fundamental property of a natural dipeptide inherent to traditional antioxidant, anti-aging biological activities: balancing and a hormonally correct agent, novel patented oral therapy dosage formulation for mobility, skeletal muscle power and functional performance, hypothalamic-pituitary- brain relationship in health, aging and stress studies.

    PubMed

    Babizhayev, Mark A; Yegorov, Yegor E

    2015-01-01

    Hypothalamic releasing and inhibiting hormones are major neuroendocrine regulators of human body metabolism being driven directly to the anterior pituitary gland via hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal veins. The alternative physiological or therapeutic interventions utilizing the pharmaco-nutritional boost of imidazole-containing dipeptides (non-hydrolized oral form of carnosine, carcinine, N-acetylcarnosine lubricant eye drops) can maintain health, enhance physical exercise performance and prevent ageing. Carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) is synthesized in mammalian skeletal muscle. There is an evidence that the release of carnosine from the skeletal muscle sarcomeres moieties during physical exercise affects autonomic neurotransmission and physiological functions. Carnosine released from skeletal muscle during exercise acts as a powerful afferent physiological signaling stimulus for hypothalamus, may be transported into the hypothalamic tuberomammillary nucleus (TMN), specifically to TMN-histamine neurons and hydrolyzed herewith via activities of carnosine-degrading enzyme (carnosinase 2) localized in situ. Through the colocalized enzymatic activity of Histidine decarboxylase in the histaminergic neurons, the resulting L-histidine may subsequently be converted into histamine, which could be responsible for the effects of carnosine on neurotransmission and physiological function. Carnosine and its imidazole-containing dipeptide derivatives are renowned for their anti-aging, antioxidant, membrane protective, metal ion chelating, buffering, anti-glycation/ transglycating activities used to prevent and treat a spectrum of age-related and metabolic diseases, such as neurodegenerative disease, sight threatening eye diseases, Diabetes mellitus and its complications, cancers and other disorders due to their wide spectrum biological activities. The precursor of carnosine (and related imidazole containing compounds) synthesis in skeletal muscles beta-alanine is used as the

  2. Cysteine, histidine and glycine exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in human coronary arterial endothelial cells.

    PubMed

    Hasegawa, S; Ichiyama, T; Sonaka, I; Ohsaki, A; Okada, S; Wakiguchi, H; Kudo, K; Kittaka, S; Hara, M; Furukawa, S

    2012-02-01

    The activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in vascular endothelial cells may be involved in vascular pathogeneses such as vasculitis or atherosclerosis. Recently, it has been reported that some amino acids exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. We investigated the inhibitory effects of a panel of amino acids on cytokine production or expression of adhesion molecules that are involved in inflammatory diseases in various cell types. The activation of NF-κB was determined in human coronary arterial endothelial cells (HCAECs) because NF-κB modulates the production of many cytokines and the expression of adhesion molecules. We examined the inhibitory effects of the amino acids cysteine, histidine and glycine on the induction of NF-κB activation, expression of CD62E (E-selectin) and the production of interleukin (IL)-6 in HCAECs stimulated with tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Cysteine, histidine and glycine significantly reduced NF-κB activation and inhibitor κBα (IκBα) degradation in HCAECs stimulated with TNF-α. Additionally, all the amino acids inhibited the expression of E-selectin and the production of IL-6 in HCAECs, and the effects of cysteine were the most significant. Our results show that glycine, histidine and cysteine can inhibit NF-κB activation, IκBα degradation, CD62E expression and IL-6 production in HCAECs, suggesting that these amino acids may exhibit anti-inflammatory effects during endothelial inflammation. © 2012 The Authors. Clinical and Experimental Immunology © 2012 British Society for Immunology.

  3. Molecular mechanism: the human dopamine transporter histidine 547 regulates basal and HIV-1 Tat protein-inhibited dopamine transport

    PubMed Central

    Quizon, Pamela M.; Sun, Wei-Lun; Yuan, Yaxia; Midde, Narasimha M.; Zhan, Chang-Guo; Zhu, Jun

    2016-01-01

    Abnormal dopaminergic transmission has been implicated as a risk determinant of HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorders. HIV-1 Tat protein increases synaptic dopamine (DA) levels by directly inhibiting DA transporter (DAT) activity, ultimately leading to dopaminergic neuron damage. Through integrated computational modeling prediction and experimental validation, we identified that histidine547 on human DAT (hDAT) is critical for regulation of basal DA uptake and Tat-induced inhibition of DA transport. Compared to wild type hDAT (WT hDAT), mutation of histidine547 (H547A) displayed a 196% increase in DA uptake. Other substitutions of histidine547 showed that DA uptake was not altered in H547R but decreased by 99% in H547P and 60% in H547D, respectively. These mutants did not alter DAT surface expression or surface DAT binding sites. H547 mutants attenuated Tat-induced inhibition of DA transport observed in WT hDAT. H547A displays a differential sensitivity to PMA- or BIM-induced activation or inhibition of DAT function relative to WT hDAT, indicating a change in basal PKC activity in H547A. These findings demonstrate that histidine547 on hDAT plays a crucial role in stabilizing basal DA transport and Tat-DAT interaction. This study provides mechanistic insights into identifying targets on DAT for Tat binding and improving DAT-mediated dysfunction of DA transmission. PMID:27966610

  4. Oral supplementations with L-glutamine or L-alanyl-L-glutamine do not change metabolic alterations induced by long-term high-fat diet in the B6.129F2/J mouse model of insulin resistance.

    PubMed

    Bock, Patricia Martins; Krause, Mauricio; Schroeder, Helena Trevisan; Hahn, Gabriela Fernandes; Takahashi, Hilton Kenji; Schöler, Cinthia Maria; Nicoletti, Graziella; Neto, Luiz Domingos Zavarize; Rodrigues, Maria Inês Lavina; Bruxel, Maciel Alencar; Homem de Bittencourt, Paulo Ivo

    2016-01-01

    In this work, we aimed to investigate the effects of long-term supplementations with L-glutamine or L-alanyl-L-glutamine in the high-fat diet (HFD)-fed B6.129SF2/J mouse model over insulin sensitivity response and signaling, oxidative stress markers, metabolism and HSP70 expression. Mice were fed in a standard low-fat diet (STA) or a HFD for 20 weeks. In the 21th week, mice from the HFD group were allocated in five groups and supplemented for additional 8 weeks with different amino acids: HFD control group (HFD-Con), HFD + dipeptide L-alanyl-L-glutamine group (HFD-Dip), HFD + L-alanine group (HFD-Ala), HFD + L-glutamine group (HFD-Gln), or the HFD + L-alanine + L-glutamine (in their free forms) group (HFD-Ala + Gln). HFD induced higher body weight, fat pad, fasted glucose, and total cholesterol in comparison with STA group. Amino acid supplementations did not induce any modifications in these parameters. Although insulin tolerance tests indicated insulin resistance in all HFD groups, amino acid supplementations did not improve insulin sensitivity in the present model. There were also no significant differences in the immunocontents of insulin receptor, Akt, and Toll-like receptor-4. Notably, total 70 kDa heat shock protein (HSP72 + HSP73) contents in the liver was markedly increased in HFD-Con group as compared to STA group, which might suggest that insulin resistance is only in the beginning. Apparently, B6.129SF2/J mice are more resistant to the harmful effects of HFD through a mechanism that may include gut adaptation, reducing the absorption of nutrients, including amino acids, which may explain the lack of improvements in our intervention.

  5. Single histidine residue in head-group region is sufficient to impart remarkable gene transfection properties to cationic lipids: evidence for histidine-mediated membrane fusion at acidic pH.

    PubMed

    Kumar, V V; Pichon, C; Refregiers, M; Guerin, B; Midoux, P; Chaudhuri, A

    2003-08-01

    Presence of endosome-disrupting multiple histidine functionalities in the molecular architecture of cationic polymers, such as polylysine, has previously been demonstrated to significantly enhance their in vitro gene delivery efficiencies. Towards harnessing improved transfection property through covalent grafting of endosome-disrupting single histidine functionality in the molecular structure of cationic lipids, herein, we report on the design, the synthesis and the transfection efficiency of two novel nonglycerol-based histidylated cationic amphiphiles. We found that L-histidine-(N,N-di-n-hexadecylamine)ethylamide (lipid 1) and L-histidine-(N,N-di-n-hexadecylamine,-N-methyl)ethylamide (lipid 2) in combination with cholesterol gave efficient transfections into various cell lines. The transfection efficiency of Chol/lipid 1 lipoplexes into HepG2 cells was two order of magnitude higher than that of FuGENE(TM)6 and DC-Chol lipoplexes, whereas it was similar into A549, 293T7 and HeLa cells. A better efficiency was obtained with Chol/lipid 2 lipoplexes when using the cytosolic luciferase expression vector (pT7Luc) under the control of the bacterial T7 promoter. Membrane fusion activity measurements using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) technique showed that the histidine head-groups of Chol/lipid 1 liposomes mediated membrane fusion in the pH range 5-7. In addition, the transgene expression results using the T7Luc expression vector convincingly support the endosome-disrupting role of the presently described mono-histidylated cationic transfection lipids and the release of DNA into the cytosol. We conclude that covalent grafting of a single histidine amino acid residue to suitable twin-chain hydrophobic compounds is able to impart remarkable transfection properties on the resulting mono-histidylated cationic amphiphile, presumably via the endosome-disrupting characteristics of the histidine functionalities.

  6. Ypq3p-dependent histidine uptake by the vacuolar membrane vesicles of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

    PubMed

    Manabe, Kunio; Kawano-Kawada, Miyuki; Ikeda, Koichi; Sekito, Takayuki; Kakinuma, Yoshimi

    2016-06-01

    The vacuolar membrane proteins Ypq1p, Ypq2p, and Ypq3p of Saccharomyces cerevisiae are known as the members of the PQ-loop protein family. We found that the ATP-dependent uptake activities of arginine and histidine by the vacuolar membrane vesicles were decreased by ypq2Δ and ypq3Δ mutations, respectively. YPQ1 and AVT1, which are involved in the vacuolar uptake of lysine/arginine and histidine, respectively, were deleted in addition to ypq2Δ and ypq3Δ. The vacuolar membrane vesicles isolated from the resulting quadruple deletion mutant ypq1Δypq2Δypq3Δavt1Δ completely lost the uptake activity of basic amino acids, and that of histidine, but not lysine and arginine, was evidently enhanced by overexpressing YPQ3 in the mutant. These results suggest that Ypq3p is specifically involved in the vacuolar uptake of histidine in S. cerevisiae. The cellular level of Ypq3p-HA(3) was enhanced by depletion of histidine from culture medium, suggesting that it is regulated by the substrate.

  7. Molecular characterization and expression study of a histidine auxotrophic mutant (his1-) of Nicotiana plumbaginifolia.

    PubMed

    El Malki, F; Jacobs, M

    2001-01-01

    The histidine auxotroph mutant his 1(-) isolated from Nicotiana plumbaginifolia haploid protoplasts was first characterized to be deficient for the enzyme histidinol phosphate aminotransferase that is responsible for one of the last steps of histidine biosynthesis. Expression of the mutated gene at the RNA level was assessed by northern analysis of various tissues. Transcriptional activity was unimpaired by the mutation and, in contrast, a higher level of expression was obtained when compared to the wild-type. The cDNA sequence encoding the mutated gene was isolated by RT-PCR and compared to the wild-type gene. A single point mutation corresponding to the substitution of a G nucleotide by A was identified at position 1212 starting from the translation site. The alignment of the deduced amino acid sequences from the mutated and wild-type gene showed that this mutation resulted in the substitution of an Arg by a His residue at position 381. This Arg residue is a conserved amino acid for histidinol phosphate aminotransferase of many species. These results indicate that the identified mutation results in an altered histidinol phosphate aminotransferase enzyme that is unable to convert the substrate imidazole acetol phosphate to histidinol phosphate and thereby leads to the blockage of histidine biosynthesis. Possible consequences of this blockage on the expression of other amino acid biosynthesis genes were evaluated by analysing the expression of the dhdps gene encoding dihydrodipicolinate synthase, the first key enzyme of the lysine pathway.

  8. Ligand protons in a frozen solution of copper histidine relax via a T1e-driven three-spin mechanism

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stoll, S.; Epel, B.; Vega, S.; Goldfarb, D.

    2007-10-01

    Davies electron-nuclear double resonance spectra can exhibit strong asymmetries for long mixing times, short repetition times, and large thermal polarizations. These asymmetries can be used to determine nuclear relaxation rates in paramagnetic systems. Measurements of frozen solutions of copper(L-histidine)2 reveal a strong field dependence of the relaxation rates of the protons in the histidine ligand, increasing from low (g‖) to high (g⊥) field. It is shown that this can be attributed to a concentration-dependent T1e-driven relaxation process involving strongly mixed states of three spins: the histidine proton, the Cu(II) electron spin of the same complex, and another distant electron spin with a resonance frequency differing from the spectrometer frequency approximately by the proton Larmor frequency. The protons relax more efficiently in the g⊥ region, since the number of distant electrons able to participate in this relaxation mechanism is higher than in the g‖ region. Analytical expressions for the associated nuclear polarization decay rate Teen-1 are developed and Monte Carlo simulations are carried out, reproducing both the field and the concentration dependences of the nuclear relaxation.

  9. Functional Analysis of d-Alanylation of Lipoteichoic Acid in the Probiotic Strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG▿

    PubMed Central

    Vélez, Mónica Perea; Verhoeven, Tine L. A.; Draing, Christian; Von Aulock, Sonja; Pfitzenmaier, Markus; Geyer, Armin; Lambrichts, Ivo; Grangette, Corinne; Pot, Bruno; Vanderleyden, Jos; De Keersmaecker, Sigrid C. J.

    2007-01-01

    Lipoteichoic acid (LTA) is a macroamphiphile molecule which performs several functions in gram-positive bacteria, such as maintenance of cell wall homeostasis. d-Alanylation of LTA requires the proteins encoded by the dlt operon, and this process is directly related to the charge properties of this polymer strongly contributing to its function. The insertional inactivation of dltD of the probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (ATCC 53103) resulted in the complete absence of d-alanyl esters in the LTA as confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance analysis. This was reflected in modifications of the bacterial cell surface properties. The dltD strain showed 2.4-fold-increased cell length, a low survival capacity in response to gastric juice challenge, an increased sensitivity to human beta-defensin-2, an increased rate of autolysis, an increased capacity to initiate growth in the presence of an anionic detergent, and a decreased capacity to initiate growth in the presence of cationic peptides compared to wild-type results. However, in vitro experiments revealed no major differences for adhesion to human intestinal epithelial cells, biofilm formation, and immunomodulation. These properties are considered to be important for probiotics. The role of the dlt operon in lactobacilli is discussed in view of these results. PMID:17434999

  10. The effect of histidine ammonia-lyase on some murine tumours.

    PubMed

    Jack, G W; Wiblin, C N; McMahon, P C

    1983-01-01

    The histidine ammonia-lyase from bacterial strain CAMR 5315 was partially purified to assess its effect on the growth of murine tumours. This strain was selected as the source after an extensive screening programme for histidine ammonia-lyases. The enzyme was partially purified by ammonium sulphate fractionation, chromatography on DEAE-cellulose and Sephadex G-150. The enzyme reduced circulating L-histidine levels in Wistar rats and in mice persisted with a half-life of 6-7 h. Neither LDH virus nor chemical modification with ethylacetimidate increased the half-life as observed with L-asparaginase and L-glutaminase. The enzyme was tested in mice against Ehrlich carcinoma, L5178Y lymphoblastic leukaemia, Mc/S sarcoma, B16 melanoma, P8157 mastocytoma, P1798 lymphosarcoma and the Gardner 6C3HED lymphosarcoma. The only tumours to show sensitivity to the enzyme were the Mc/S sarcoma against which a 65% increase in life span was observed at the highest enzyme dose, 1000 U/kg on alternate days over 14 days and the Ehrlich ascites carcinoma where cures were obtained at 250 U/kg on alternate days over 14 days, but only at inocula levels of 10(5) and 10(3) cells/animal respectively.

  11. Evolution of the Structure and Chromosomal Distribution of Histidine Biosynthetic Genes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fani, Renato; Mori, Elena; Tamburini, Elena; Lazcano, Antonio

    1998-10-01

    A database of more than 100 histidine biosynthetic genes from different organisms belonging to the three primary domains has been analyzed, including those found in the now completely sequenced genomes of Haemophilus influenzae, Mycoplasma genitalium, Synechocystis sp., Methanococcus jannaschii, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The ubiquity of his genes suggests that it is a highly conserved pathway that was probably already present in the last common ancestor of all extant life. The chromosomal distribution of the his genes shows that the enterobacterial histidine operon structure is not the only possible organization, and that there is a diversity of gene arrays for the his pathway. Analysis of the available sequences shows that gene fusions (like those involved in the origin of the Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium hisIE and hisB gene structures) are not universal. In contrast, the elongation event that led to the extant hisA gene from two homologous ancestral modules, as well as the subsequent paralogous duplication that originated hisF, appear to be irreversible and are conserved in all known organisms. The available evidence supports the hypothesis that histidine biosynthesis was assembled by a gene recruitment process.

  12. Mussel-inspired histidine-based transient network metal coordination hydrogels

    PubMed Central

    Fullenkamp, Dominic E.; He, Lihong; Barrett, Devin G.; Burghardt, Wesley R.; Messersmith, Phillip B.

    2013-01-01

    Transient network hydrogels cross-linked through histidine-divalent cation coordination bonds were studied by conventional rheologic methods using histidine-modified star poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) polymers. These materials were inspired by the mussel, which is thought to use histidine-metal coordination bonds to impart self-healing properties in the mussel byssal thread. Hydrogel viscoelastic mechanical properties were studied as a function of metal, pH, concentration, and ionic strength. The equilibrium metal-binding constants were determined by dilute solution potentiometric titration of monofunctional histidine-modified methoxy-PEG and were found to be consistent with binding constants of small molecule analogs previously studied. pH-dependent speciation curves were then calculated using the equilibrium constants determined by potentiometric titration, providing insight into the pH dependence of histidine-metal ion coordination and guiding the design of metal coordination hydrogels. Gel relaxation dynamics were found to be uncorrelated with the equilibrium constants measured, but were correlated to the expected coordination bond dissociation rate constants. PMID:23441102

  13. Role of Reversible Histidine Coordination in Hydroxylamine Reduction by Plant Hemoglobins (Phytoglobins).

    PubMed

    Athwal, Navjot Singh; Alagurajan, Jagannathan; Andreotti, Amy H; Hargrove, Mark S

    2016-10-18

    Reduction of hydroxylamine to ammonium by phytoglobin, a plant hexacoordinate hemoglobin, is much faster than that of other hexacoordinate hemoglobins or pentacoordinate hemoglobins such as myoglobin, leghemoglobin, and red blood cell hemoglobin. The reason for differences in reactivity is not known but could be intermolecular electron transfer between protein molecules in support of the required two-electron reduction, hydroxylamine binding, or active site architecture favoring the reaction. Experiments were conducted with phytoglobins from rice, tomato, and soybean along with human neuroglobin and soybean leghemoglobin that reveal hydroxylamine binding as the rate-limiting step. For hexacoordinate hemoglobins, binding is limited by the dissociation rate constant for the distal histidine, while leghemoglobin is limited by an intrinsically low affinity for hydroxylamine. When the distal histidine is removed from rice phytoglobin, a hydroxylamine-bound intermediate is formed and the reaction rate is diminished, indicating that the distal histidine imidazole side chain is critical for the reaction, albeit not for electron transfer but rather for direct interaction with the substrate. Together, these results demonstrate that phytoglobins are superior at hydroxylamine reduction because they have distal histidine coordination affinity constants near 1, and facile rate constants for binding and dissociation of the histidine side chain. Hexacoordinate hemoglobins such as neuroglobin are limited by tighter histidine coordination that blocks hydroxylamine binding, and pentacoordinate hemoglobins have intrinsically lower hydroxylamine affinities.

  14. Mechanism of Fine-tuning pH Sensors in Proprotein Convertases: IDENTIFICATION OF A pH-SENSING HISTIDINE PAIR IN THE PROPEPTIDE OF PROPROTEIN CONVERTASE 1/3.

    PubMed

    Williamson, Danielle M; Elferich, Johannes; Shinde, Ujwal

    2015-09-18

    The propeptides of proprotein convertases (PCs) regulate activation of cognate protease domains by sensing pH of their organellar compartments as they transit the secretory pathway. Earlier experimental work identified a conserved histidine-encoded pH sensor within the propeptide of the canonical PC, furin. To date, whether protonation of this conserved histidine is solely responsible for PC activation has remained unclear because of the observation that various PC paralogues are activated at different organellar pH values. To ascertain additional determinants of PC activation, we analyzed PC1/3, a paralogue of furin that is activated at a pH of ∼5.4. Using biophysical, biochemical, and cell-based methods, we mimicked the protonation status of various histidines within the propeptide of PC1/3 and examined how such alterations can modulate pH-dependent protease activation. Our results indicate that whereas the conserved histidine plays a crucial role in pH sensing and activation of this protease an additional histidine acts as a "gatekeeper" that fine-tunes the sensitivity of the PC1/3 propeptide to facilitate the release inhibition at higher proton concentrations when compared with furin. Coupled with earlier analyses that highlighted the enrichment of the amino acid histidine within propeptides of secreted eukaryotic proteases, our work elucidates how secreted proteases have evolved to exploit the pH of the secretory pathway by altering the spatial juxtaposition of titratable groups to regulate their activity in a spatiotemporal fashion. © 2015 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

  15. Chiral recognition of proteins having L-histidine residues on the surface with lanthanide ion complex incorporated-molecularly imprinted fluorescent nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Uzun, Lokman; Uzek, Recep; Senel, Serap; Say, Ridvan; Denizli, Adil

    2013-08-01

    In this study, lanthanide ion complex incorporated molecularly imprinted fluorescent nanoparticles were synthesized. A combination of three novel approaches was applied for the purpose. First, lanthanide ions [Terbium(III)] were complexed with N-methacryloyl-L-histidine (MAH), polymerizable derivative of L-histidine amino acid, in order to incorporate the complex directly into the polymeric backbone. At the second stage, L-histidine molecules imprinted nanoparticles were utilized instead of whole protein imprinting in order to avoid whole drawbacks such as fragility, complexity, denaturation tendency, and conformation dependency. At the third stage following the first two steps mentioned above, imprinted L-histidine was coordinated with cupric ions [Cu(II)] to conduct the study under mild conditions. Then, molecularly imprinted fluorescent nanoparticles synthesized were used for L-histidine adsorption from aqueous solution to optimize conditions for adsorption and fluorimetric detection. Finally, usability of nanoparticles was investigated for chiral biorecognition using stereoisomer, D-histidine, racemic mixture, D,L-histidine, proteins with surface L-histidine residue, lysozyme, cytochrome C, or without ribonuclease A. The results revealed that the proposed polymerization strategy could make significant contribution to the solution of chronic problems of fluorescent component introduction into polymers. Additionally, the fluorescent nanoparticles reported here could be used for selective separation and fluorescent monitoring purposes. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. A rapid and ultrasensitive SERRS assay for histidine and tyrosine based on azo coupling.

    PubMed

    Sui, Huimin; Wang, Yue; Yu, Zhi; Cong, Qian; Han, Xiao Xia; Zhao, Bing

    2016-10-01

    A simple and highly sensitive surface-enhanced resonance Raman scattering (SERRS)-based approach coupled with azo coupling reaction has been put forward for quantitative analysis of histidine and tyrosine. The SERRS-based assay is simple and rapid by mixing the azo reaction products with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for measurements within 2min. The limits of detection (LODs) of the method are as low as 4.33×10(-11) and 8.80×10(-11)M for histidine and tyrosine, respectively. Moreover, the SERRS fingerprint information specific to corresponding amino acids guarantees the selective detection for the target histidine and tyrosine. The results from serum indicated the potential application of the proposed approach into biological samples. Compared with the methods ever reported, the main advantages of this methodology are simpleness, rapidity without time-consuming separation or pretreatment steps, high sensitivity, selectivity and the potential for determination of other molecules containing imidazole or phenol groups. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Association of Rare Loss-Of-Function Alleles in HAL, Serum Histidine: Levels and Incident Coronary Heart Disease.

    PubMed

    Yu, Bing; Li, Alexander H; Muzny, Donna; Veeraraghavan, Narayanan; de Vries, Paul S; Bis, Joshua C; Musani, Solomon K; Alexander, Danny; Morrison, Alanna C; Franco, Oscar H; Uitterlinden, André; Hofman, Albert; Dehghan, Abbas; Wilson, James G; Psaty, Bruce M; Gibbs, Richard; Wei, Peng; Boerwinkle, Eric

    2015-04-01

    Histidine is a semiessential amino acid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Few data are available on the associations between genetic variants, histidine levels, and incident coronary heart disease (CHD) in a population-based sample. By conducting whole exome sequencing on 1152 African Americans in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study and focusing on loss-of-function (LoF) variants, we identified 3 novel rare LoF variants in HAL, a gene that encodes histidine ammonia-lyase in the first step of histidine catabolism. These LoF variants had large effects on blood histidine levels (β=0.26; P=1.2×10(-13)). The positive association with histidine levels was replicated by genotyping an independent sample of 718 ARIC African Americans (minor allele frequency=1%; P=1.2×10(-4)). In addition, high blood histidine levels were associated with reduced risk of developing incident CHD with an average of 21.5 years of follow-up among African Americans (hazard ratio=0.18; P=1.9×10(-4)). This finding was validated in an independent sample of European Americans from the Framingham Heart Study (FHS) Offspring Cohort. However, LoF variants in HAL were not directly significantly associated with incident CHD after meta-analyzing results from the CHARGE Consortium. Three LoF mutations in HAL were associated with increased histidine levels, which in turn were shown to be inversely related to the risk of CHD among both African Americans and European Americans. Future investigations on the association between HAL gene variation and CHD are warranted. © 2015 American Heart Association, Inc.

  18. Diethylpyrocarbonate inhibition of vacuolar H+-pyrophosphatase possibly involves a histidine residue.

    PubMed

    Hsiao, Yi Yuong; Van, Ru Chuan; Hung, Hsiao Hui; Pan, Rong Long

    2002-01-01

    Vacuolar proton pumping pyrophosphatase (H+-PPase; EC 3.6.1.1) plays a pivotal role in electrogenic translocation of protons from cytosol to the vacuolar lumen at the expense of PPi hydrolysis. A histidine-specific modifier, diethylpyrocarbonate (DEPC), could substantially inhibit enzymic activity and H+-translocation of vacuolar H+-PPase in a concentration-dependent manner. Absorbance of vacuolar H+-PPase at 240 nm was increased upon incubation with DEPC, demonstrating that an N-carbethoxyhistidine moiety was probably formed. On the other hand, hydroxylamine, a reagent that can deacylate N-carbethoxyhistidine, could reverse the absorption change at 240 nm and partially restore PPi hydrolysis activity as well. The pKa of modified residues of the enzyme was determined to be 6.4, a value close to that of histidine. Thus, we speculate that inhibition of vacuolar H+-PPase by DEPC possibly could be attributed to the modification of histidyl residues on the enzyme. Furthermore, inhibition of vacuolar H+-PPase by DEPC follows pseudo-first-order rate kinetics. A reaction order of 0.85 was calculated from a double logarithmic plot of the apparent reaction constant against DEPC concentration, suggesting that the modification of one single histidine residue on the enzyme suffices to inhibit vacuolar H+-PPase. Inhibition of vacuolar H+-PPase by DEPC changes Vmax but not Km values. Moreover, DEPC inhibition of vacuolar H+-PPase could be substantially protected against by its physiological substrate, Mg2+-PPi. These results indicated that DEPC specifically competes with the substrate at the active site and the DEPC-labeled histidine residue might locate in or near the catalytic domain of the enzyme. Besides, pretreatment of the enzyme with N-ethylmaleimide decreased the degree of subsequent labeling of H+-PPase by DEPC. Taken together, we suggest that vacuolar H+-PPase likely contains a substrate-protectable histidine residue contributing to the inhibition of its activity by

  19. Relationships of Dietary Histidine and Obesity in Northern Chinese Adults, an Internet-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

    PubMed

    Li, Yan-Chuan; Li, Chun-Long; Qi, Jia-Yue; Huang, Li-Na; Shi, Dan; Du, Shan-Shan; Liu, Li-Yan; Feng, Ren-Nan; Sun, Chang-Hao

    2016-07-11

    Our previous studies have demonstrated that histidine supplementation significantly ameliorates inflammation and oxidative stress in obese women and high-fat diet-induced obese rats. However, the effects of dietary histidine on general population are not known. The objective of this Internet-based cross-sectional study was to evaluate the associations between dietary histidine and prevalence of overweight/obesity and abdominal obesity in northern Chinese population. A total of 2376 participants were randomly recruited and asked to finish our Internet-based dietary questionnaire for the Chinese (IDQC). Afterwards, 88 overweight/obese participants were randomly selected to explore the possible mechanism. Compared with healthy controls, dietary histidine was significantly lower in overweight (p < 0.05) and obese (p < 0.01) participants of both sexes. Dietary histidine was inversely associated with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and blood pressure in overall population and stronger associations were observed in women and overweight/obese participants. Higher dietary histidine was associated with lower prevalence of overweight/obesity and abdominal obesity, especially in women. Further studies indicated that higher dietary histidine was associated with lower fasting blood glucose (FBG), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), 2-h postprandial glucose (2 h-PG), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), malonaldehyde (MDA) and vaspin and higher glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and adiponectin of overweight/obese individuals of both sexes. In conclusion, higher dietary histidine is inversely associated with energy intake, status of insulin resistance, inflammation and oxidative stress in overweight/obese participants and lower prevalence of overweight/obesity in northern Chinese adults.

  20. Relationships of Dietary Histidine and Obesity in Northern Chinese Adults, an Internet-Based Cross-Sectional Study

    PubMed Central

    Li, Yan-Chuan; Li, Chun-Long; Qi, Jia-Yue; Huang, Li-Na; Shi, Dan; Du, Shan-Shan; Liu, Li-Yan; Feng, Ren-Nan; Sun, Chang-Hao

    2016-01-01

    Our previous studies have demonstrated that histidine supplementation significantly ameliorates inflammation and oxidative stress in obese women and high-fat diet-induced obese rats. However, the effects of dietary histidine on general population are not known. The objective of this Internet-based cross-sectional study was to evaluate the associations between dietary histidine and prevalence of overweight/obesity and abdominal obesity in northern Chinese population. A total of 2376 participants were randomly recruited and asked to finish our Internet-based dietary questionnaire for the Chinese (IDQC). Afterwards, 88 overweight/obese participants were randomly selected to explore the possible mechanism. Compared with healthy controls, dietary histidine was significantly lower in overweight (p < 0.05) and obese (p < 0.01) participants of both sexes. Dietary histidine was inversely associated with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and blood pressure in overall population and stronger associations were observed in women and overweight/obese participants. Higher dietary histidine was associated with lower prevalence of overweight/obesity and abdominal obesity, especially in women. Further studies indicated that higher dietary histidine was associated with lower fasting blood glucose (FBG), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), 2-h postprandial glucose (2 h-PG), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), malonaldehyde (MDA) and vaspin and higher glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and adiponectin of overweight/obese individuals of both sexes. In conclusion, higher dietary histidine is inversely associated with energy intake, status of insulin resistance, inflammation and oxidative stress in overweight/obese participants and lower prevalence of overweight/obesity in northern Chinese adults. PMID:27409634

  1. Histidinol Phosphate Phosphatase, Catalyzing the Penultimate Step of the Histidine Biosynthesis Pathway, Is Encoded by ytvP (hisJ) in Bacillus subtilis

    PubMed Central

    le Coq, Dominique; Fillinger, Sabine; Aymerich, Stéphane

    1999-01-01

    The deduced product of the Bacillus subtilis ytvP gene is similar to that of ORF13, a gene of unknown function in the Lactococcus lactis histidine biosynthesis operon. A B. subtilis ytvP mutant was auxotrophic for histidine. The only enzyme of the histidine biosynthesis pathway that remained uncharacterized in B. subtilis was histidinol phosphate phosphatase (HolPase), catalyzing the penultimate step of this pathway. HolPase activity could not be detected in crude extracts of the ytvP mutant, while purified glutathione S-transferase-YtvP fusion protein exhibited strong HolPase activity. These observations demonstrated that HolPase is encoded by ytvP in B. subtilis and led us to rename this gene hisJ. Together with the HolPase of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the presumed HolPases of L. lactis and Schizosaccharomyces pombe, HisJ constitutes a family of related enzymes that are not homologous to the HolPases of Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, and Haemophilus influenzae. PMID:10322033

  2. Effects of the location of distal histidine in the reaction of myoglobin with hydrogen peroxide.

    PubMed

    Matsui, T; Ozaki, S i; Liong, E; Phillips, G N; Watanabe, Y

    1999-01-29

    To clarify how the location of distal histidine affects the activation process of H2O2 by heme proteins, we have characterized reactions with H2O2 for the L29H/H64L and F43H/H64L mutants of sperm whale myoglobin (Mb), designed to locate the histidine farther from the heme iron. Whereas the L29H/H64L double substitution retarded the reaction with H2O2, an 11-fold rate increase versus wild-type Mb was observed for the F43H/H64L mutant. The Vmax values for 1-electron oxidations by the myoglobins correlate well with the varied reactivities with H2O2. The functions of the distal histidine as a general acid-base catalyst were examined based on the reactions with cumene hydroperoxide and cyanide, and only the histidine in F43H/H64L Mb was suggested to facilitate heterolysis of the peroxide bond. The x-ray crystal structures of the mutants confirmed that the distal histidines in F43H/H64L Mb and peroxidase are similar in distance from the heme iron, whereas the distal histidine in L29H/H64L Mb is located too far to enhance heterolysis. Our results indicate that the proper positioning of the distal histidine is essential for the activation of H2O2 by heme enzymes.

  3. Identification of histidine residues that act as zinc ligands in beta-lactamase II by differential tritium exchange.

    PubMed Central

    Baldwin, G S; Waley, S G; Abraham, E P

    1979-01-01

    1. Four histidine-containing peptides have been isolated from a tryptic digest of the Zn2+-requiring beta-lactamase II from Bacillus cereus. One of these peptides probably contains two histidine residues. 2. The presence of one equivalent of Zn2+ substantially decreases the rate of exchange of the C-2 proton in at least two and probably three of the histidine residues of these peptides for solvent 3H. 3. It is concluded that peptides containing at least two of the three histidine residues acting as Zn2+ ligands at the tighter Zn2+-binding site of beta-lactamase II have been identified. PMID:314287

  4. Isotope effect studies of the pyruvate-dependent histidine decarboxylase from Lactobacillus 30a

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

    Abell, L.M.; O'Leary, M.H.

    1988-08-09

    The decarboxylation of histidine by the pyruvate-dependent histidine decarboxylase of Lactobacillus 30 a shows a carbon isotope effect k/sup 12//k/sup 13/ = 1.0334 +/- 0.0005 and a nitrogen isotope effect k/sup 14//k/sup 15/ = 0.9799 +/- 0.0006 at pH 4.8, 37/sup 0/C. The carbon isotope effect is slightly increased by deuteriation of the substrate and slightly decreased in D/sub 2/O. The observed nitrogen isotope effect indicates that the imine nitrogen in the substrate-Schiff base intermediate complex is ordinarily protonated, and the pH dependence of the carbon isotope effect indicates that both protonated and unprotonated forms of this intermediate are capablemore » of undergoing decarboxylation. As with the pyridoxal 5'-phosphate dependent enzyme, Schiff base formation and decarboxylation are jointly rate-limiting, with the intermediate histidine-pyruvate Schiff base showing a decarboxylation/Schiff base hydrolysis ratio of 0.5-1.0 at pH 4.8. The decarboxylation transition state is more reactant-like for the pyruvate-dependent enzyme than for the pyridoxal 5'-phosphate dependent enzyme. These studies find no particular energetic or catalytic advantage to the use of pyridoxal 5'-phosphate over covalently bound pyruvate in catalysis of the decarboxylation of histidine.« less

  5. Evidence for histidine in the active sites of ficin and stem-bromelain

    PubMed Central

    Husain, S. S.; Lowe, G.

    1968-01-01

    1. Ficin and stem-bromelain are irreversibly inhibited by 1,3-dibromoacetone, a reagent designed to react first with the active-site cysteine residue and subsequently with a second nucleophile. Evidence is presented that establishes that a histidine residue is within a 5Å locus of the active-site cysteine residue in both enzymes. The histidine residue in both enzymes is alkylated at N-1 by dibromoacetone. It is suggested that, as with papain, the thiol and imidazole groups act in concert in the hydrolysis of substrates by these enzymes. 2. The inhibition of thiol-subtilisin with 1,3-dibromoacetone is shown to be due to the alkylation of a cysteine residue only. PMID:5722692

  6. Strategies for the depyrogenation of contaminated immunoglobulin G solutions by histidine-immobilized hollow fiber membrane.

    PubMed

    Legallais, C; Anspach, F B; Bueno, S M; Haupt, K; Vijayalakshmi, M A

    1997-03-28

    The depyrogenation of different IgG solutions using the histidine-linked hollow fiber membrane developed in our laboratory is presented here. Three strategies for endotoxin (ET) removal were investigated according to the immobilized histidine's ability to bind different immunoglobulins: (1) ET removal from 1 mg/ml non histidine-binding mouse monoclonal IgG1 (MabCD4) solution was achieved in the presence of acetate buffer (pH 5.0) without any protein loss. (2) For contaminated human IgG, combined adsorption of ET and IgG in the presence of MOPS of Tris buffer was tested, followed by differential elution using increasing salt concentrations. This attempt was not successful since ET were quantitatively found in the IgG elution fraction. (3) Alternatively, it was proposed to adsorb selectively ET in the presence of acetate buffer (pH 5.0) under non binding conditions for human IgG. Human IgG could then be purified if necessary with the same membrane in the presence of MOPS buffer (pH 6.5). With a 1 m2 histidine-PEVA module under these operating conditions, it is estimated that the depyrogenation of 3 l of 1 mg/ml IgG (human or murine) solution containing 80 EU/ml of ET should be possible.

  7. Carboplatin binding to histidine

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

    Tanley, Simon W. M.; Diederichs, Kay; Kroon-Batenburg, Loes M. J.

    An X-ray crystal structure showing the binding of purely carboplatin to histidine in a model protein has finally been obtained. This required extensive crystallization trials and various novel crystal structure analyses. Carboplatin is a second-generation platinum anticancer agent used for the treatment of a variety of cancers. Previous X-ray crystallographic studies of carboplatin binding to histidine (in hen egg-white lysozyme; HEWL) showed the partial conversion of carboplatin to cisplatin owing to the high NaCl concentration used in the crystallization conditions. HEWL co-crystallizations with carboplatin in NaBr conditions have now been carried out to confirm whether carboplatin converts to the brominemore » form and whether this takes place in a similar way to the partial conversion of carboplatin to cisplatin observed previously in NaCl conditions. Here, it is reported that a partial chemical transformation takes place but to a transplatin form. Thus, to attempt to resolve purely carboplatin binding at histidine, this study utilized co-crystallization of HEWL with carboplatin without NaCl to eliminate the partial chemical conversion of carboplatin. Tetragonal HEWL crystals co-crystallized with carboplatin were successfully obtained in four different conditions, each at a different pH value. The structural results obtained show carboplatin bound to either one or both of the N atoms of His15 of HEWL, and this particular variation was dependent on the concentration of anions in the crystallization mixture and the elapsed time, as well as the pH used. The structural details of the bound carboplatin molecule also differed between them. Overall, the most detailed crystal structure showed the majority of the carboplatin atoms bound to the platinum centre; however, the four-carbon ring structure of the cyclobutanedicarboxylate moiety (CBDC) remained elusive. The potential impact of the results for the administration of carboplatin as an anticancer agent are

  8. Thymidine kinase 2 and alanyl-tRNA synthetase 2 deficiencies cause lethal mitochondrial cardiomyopathy: case reports and review of the literature.

    PubMed

    Mazurova, Stella; Magner, Martin; Kucerova-Vidrova, Vendula; Vondrackova, Alzbeta; Stranecky, Viktor; Pristoupilova, Anna; Zamecnik, Josef; Hansikova, Hana; Zeman, Jiri; Tesarova, Marketa; Honzik, Tomas

    2017-07-01

    Cardiomyopathy is a common manifestation in neonates and infants with mitochondrial disorders. In this study, we report two cases manifesting with fatal mitochondrial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which include the third known patient with thymidine kinase 2 deficiency and the ninth patient with alanyl-tRNA synthetase 2 deficiency. The girl with thymidine kinase 2 deficiency had hypertrophic cardiomyopathy together with regression of gross motor development at the age of 13 months. Neurological symptoms and cardiac involvement progressed into severe myopathy, psychomotor arrest, and cardiorespiratory failure at the age of 22 months. The imaging methods and autoptic studies proved that she suffered from unique findings of leucoencephalopathy, severe, mainly cerebellar neuronal degeneration, and hepatic steatosis. The girl with alanyl-tRNA synthetase 2 deficiency presented with cardiac failure and underlying hypertrophic cardiomyopathy within 12 hours of life and subsequently died at 9 weeks of age. Muscle biopsy analyses demonstrated respiratory chain complex I and IV deficiencies, and histological evaluation revealed massive mitochondrial accumulation and cytochrome c oxidase-negative fibres in both cases. Exome sequencing in the first case revealed compound heterozygozity for one novel c.209T>C and one previously published c.416C>T mutation in the TK2 gene, whereas in the second case homozygozity for the previously described mutation c.1774C>T in the AARS2 gene was determined. The thymidine kinase 2 mutations resulted in severe mitochondrial DNA depletion (to 12% of controls) in the muscle. We present, for the first time, severe leucoencephalopathy and hepatic steatosis in a patient with thymidine kinase 2 deficiency and the finding of a ragged red fibre-like image in the muscle biopsy in a patient with alanyl-tRNA synthetase 2 deficiency.

  9. Quantification of Histidine-Rich Protein 3 of Plasmodium falciparum.

    PubMed

    Palani, Balraj

    2018-04-01

    Malaria is a life-threatening infectious disease and continues to be a major public health crisis in many parts of the tropical world. Plasmodium falciparum is responsible for the majority of mortality and morbidity associated with malaria. During the intraerythrocytic cycle, P. falciparum releases three proteins with high histidine content as follows: histidine-rich protein 1 (HRP1), histidine-rich protein 2 (HRP2), and histidine-rich protein 3 (HRP3). Currently, most of the diagnostic tests of P. falciparum infection target HRP2, and a number of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against HRP2 have been developed for use in HRP2 detection and quantification. When parasites have HRP2 deletions, the detection of HRP3 could augment the sensitivity of the detection system. The combination of both HRP2 and HRP3 mAbs in the detection system will enhance the test sensitivity. In the HRP quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), both HRP2 and HRP3 contribute to the result, but the relative contribution of HRP2 and HRP3 was unable to investigate, because of the nonavailability of HRP3 specific antibody ELISA. Hence an ELISA test system based on HRP3 is also essential for detection and quantification. There is not much documented in the literature on HRP3 antigen and HRP3 specific mAbs and polyclonal antibodies (pAbs). In the present study, recombinant HRP3 was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified with Ni-NTA agarose column. The purified rHRP3 was used for the generation and characterization of monoclonal and pAbs. The purification of monoclonal and pAbs was done using a mixed-mode chromatography sorbent, phenylpropylamine HyperCel™. With the purified antibodies, a sandwich ELISA was developed. The sandwich ELISA method was explored to detect and quantify HRP3 of P. falciparum in the spent medium. The generated mAbs could be potentially used for the detection and quantification of P. falciparum HRP3.

  10. Effect of peptide histidine valine on cardiovascular and respiratory function in normal subjects.

    PubMed Central

    Chilvers, E R; Dixon, C M; Yiangou, Y; Bloom, S R; Ind, P W

    1988-01-01

    Non-adrenergic inhibitory nerves may have an important role in regulating airway calibre. A recently discovered peptide, peptide histidine valine, is a potent relaxer of airway smooth muscle in vitro and has been proposed as a possible neurotransmitter in this tissue. The cardiovascular and respiratory effects of graded infusions of this peptide (2.5-10 pmol kg-1 min-1) have been examined in six normal subjects in a placebo controlled, randomised double blind study. The mean (SEM) peak plasma concentration of peptide histidine valine during the highest infusion rate was 2392 (170) pmol/l, representing a 29 fold increase above the basal concentration. This was accompanied by flushing, a significant increase in heart rate of 28 (3.7) beats/min and skin temperature of 1.8 degrees (0.16 degrees) C, but no effect on systolic or diastolic blood pressure. Despite these high plasma concentrations of the peptide and the substantial tachycardia and increase in skin blood flow, there was no change in partial expiratory flow at 40% of vital capacity (Vp40) or in the airway response to inhaled histamine (geometric PD40 9.37 and 9.73 mumol during saline and peptide histidine valine infusion respectively). Although these findings provide no support for a physiological role of peptide histidine valine in controlling airway function in healthy subjects, important effects of locally released peptides in the vasoactive intestinal peptide family cannot be excluded. PMID:3206383

  11. Effect of peptide histidine valine on cardiovascular and respiratory function in normal subjects.

    PubMed

    Chilvers, E R; Dixon, C M; Yiangou, Y; Bloom, S R; Ind, P W

    1988-10-01

    Non-adrenergic inhibitory nerves may have an important role in regulating airway calibre. A recently discovered peptide, peptide histidine valine, is a potent relaxer of airway smooth muscle in vitro and has been proposed as a possible neurotransmitter in this tissue. The cardiovascular and respiratory effects of graded infusions of this peptide (2.5-10 pmol kg-1 min-1) have been examined in six normal subjects in a placebo controlled, randomised double blind study. The mean (SEM) peak plasma concentration of peptide histidine valine during the highest infusion rate was 2392 (170) pmol/l, representing a 29 fold increase above the basal concentration. This was accompanied by flushing, a significant increase in heart rate of 28 (3.7) beats/min and skin temperature of 1.8 degrees (0.16 degrees) C, but no effect on systolic or diastolic blood pressure. Despite these high plasma concentrations of the peptide and the substantial tachycardia and increase in skin blood flow, there was no change in partial expiratory flow at 40% of vital capacity (Vp40) or in the airway response to inhaled histamine (geometric PD40 9.37 and 9.73 mumol during saline and peptide histidine valine infusion respectively). Although these findings provide no support for a physiological role of peptide histidine valine in controlling airway function in healthy subjects, important effects of locally released peptides in the vasoactive intestinal peptide family cannot be excluded.

  12. Crystal Structure of a Histidine Kinase Sensor Domain with Similarity to Periplasmic Binding Proteins

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

    Cheung, J.; Le-Khac, M; Hendrickson, W

    2009-01-01

    Histidine kinase receptors are elements of the two-component signal transduction systems commonly found in bacteria and lower eukaryotes, where they are crucial for environmental adaption through the coupling of extracellular changes to intracellular responses. The typical two-component system consists of a membrane-spanning histidine kinase sensor and a cytoplasmic response regulator. In the calssic system, extracellular signals such as small molecule ligands and ions are detected by the periplasmic sensor domain of the histidine kinase receptor, which modulates the catalytic activity of the cytoplasmic histidine kinase domain and promotes ATP-dependent autophosphorylation of a conserved histidine residue. G. sulfurreducens genomic DNA wasmore » used.« less

  13. Histidine in Continuum Electrostatics Protonation State Calculations

    PubMed Central

    Couch, Vernon; Stuchebruckhov, Alexei

    2014-01-01

    A modification to the standard continuum electrostatics approach to calculate protein pKas which allows for the decoupling of histidine tautomers within a two state model is presented. Histidine with four intrinsically coupled protonation states cannot be easily incorporated into a two state formalism because the interaction between the two protonatable sites of the imidazole ring is not purely electrostatic. The presented treatment, based on a single approximation of the interrelation between histidine’s charge states, allows for a natural separation of the two protonatable sites associated with the imidazole ring as well as the inclusion of all protonation states within the calculation. PMID:22072521

  14. Increased adsorption of histidine-tagged proteins onto tissue culture polystyrene.

    PubMed

    Holmberg, Maria; Hansen, Thomas Steen; Lind, Johan Ulrik; Hjortø, Gertrud Malene

    2012-04-01

    In this study we compare histidine-tagged and native proteins with regards to adsorption properties. We observe significantly increased adsorption of proteins with an incorporated polyhistidine amino acid motif (HIS-tag) onto tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS) compared to similar proteins without a HIS-tag. The effect is not observed on polystyrene (PS). Adsorption experiments have been performed at physiological pH (7.4) and the effect was only observed for the investigated proteins that have pI values below or around 7.4. Competitive adsorption experiments with imidazole and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), as well as adsorption performed at different pH and ionic strength indicates that the high adsorption is caused by electrostatic interaction between negatively charged carboxylate groups on the TCPS surface and positively charged histidine residues in the proteins. Pre-adsorption of bovine serum albumin (BSA) does not decrease the adsorption of HIS-tagged proteins onto TCPS. Our findings identify a potential problem in using HIS-tagged signalling molecule in assays with cells cultured on TCPS, since the concentration of the molecule in solution might be affected and this could critically influence the assay outcome. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Protein-induced geometric constraints and charge transfer in bacteriochlorophyll-histidine complexes in LH2.

    PubMed

    Wawrzyniak, Piotr K; Alia, A; Schaap, Roland G; Heemskerk, Mattijs M; de Groot, Huub J M; Buda, Francesco

    2008-12-14

    Bacteriochlorophyll-histidine complexes are ubiquitous in nature and are essential structural motifs supporting the conversion of solar energy into chemically useful compounds in a wide range of photosynthesis processes. A systematic density functional theory study of the NMR chemical shifts for histidine and for bacteriochlorophyll-a-histidine complexes in the light-harvesting complex II (LH2) is performed using the BLYP functional in combination with the 6-311++G(d,p) basis set. The computed chemical shift patterns are consistent with available experimental data for positive and neutral(tau) (N(tau) protonated) crystalline histidines. The results for the bacteriochlorophyll-a-histidine complexes in LH2 provide evidence that the protein environment is stabilizing the histidine close to the Mg ion, thereby inducing a large charge transfer of approximately 0.5 electronic equivalent. Due to this protein-induced geometric constraint, the Mg-coordinated histidine in LH2 appears to be in a frustrated state very different from the formal neutral(pi) (N(pi) protonated) form. This finding could be important for the understanding of basic functional mechanisms involved in tuning the electronic properties and exciton coupling in LH2.

  16. Immobilized metal ion affinity electrophoresis. A study with several model proteins containing histidine.

    PubMed

    Goubran-Botros, H; Nanak, E; Abdul Nour, J; Birkenmeir, G; Vijayalakshmi, M A

    1992-04-24

    Immobilized metal ion affinity electrophoresis (IMA-Elec) is one among the many methods derived from the immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography. Two approaches for incorporating the metal ligand, were studied. One was in the form of insoluble particulate material based on Sepharose 6B and the other in the form of soluble polymer based on polyethylene glycol (PEG) 5000. Both the polymers coupled with iminodiacetate and metallized with copper or zinc were used as ligands, incorporated into soluble agarose as the electrophoretic gel. Several histidine-containing model proteins were studied with both the systems and their metal binding strengths were determined as the dissociation constants, Kd. The results clearly demonstrated that the mechanism of protein recognition by immobilized copper or zinc via the accessible histidyl residues was maintained in the IMA-Elec system. Proteins with increasing numbers of histidine residues showed increasing binding strength (lower Kd values). While this basic mechanism was conserved, the supporting polymers (Sepharose 6B and the PEG 5000) showed significant differences in the metal binding to the protein. The polysaccharide Sepharose 6B enhanced the binding strength compared with PEG 5000. The optimum electrophoretic parameters were determined to be current intensities up to 20 mA and pH ca. 7.0. At pH greater than 8.0, a significant decrease in the affinity was observed, this decrease being greater with PEG 5000 than Sepharose 6B as supporting material.

  17. 21 CFR 582.5361 - Histidine.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Histidine. 582.5361 Section 582.5361 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL DRUGS, FEEDS, AND RELATED PRODUCTS SUBSTANCES GENERALLY RECOGNIZED AS SAFE Nutrients and/or Dietary Supplements...

  18. 21 CFR 582.5361 - Histidine.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Histidine. 582.5361 Section 582.5361 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL DRUGS, FEEDS, AND RELATED PRODUCTS SUBSTANCES GENERALLY RECOGNIZED AS SAFE Nutrients and/or Dietary Supplements...

  19. 21 CFR 582.5361 - Histidine.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Histidine. 582.5361 Section 582.5361 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL DRUGS, FEEDS, AND RELATED PRODUCTS SUBSTANCES GENERALLY RECOGNIZED AS SAFE Nutrients and/or Dietary Supplements...

  20. 21 CFR 582.5361 - Histidine.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Histidine. 582.5361 Section 582.5361 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL DRUGS, FEEDS, AND RELATED PRODUCTS SUBSTANCES GENERALLY RECOGNIZED AS SAFE Nutrients and/or Dietary Supplements...

  1. 21 CFR 582.5361 - Histidine.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Histidine. 582.5361 Section 582.5361 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL DRUGS, FEEDS, AND RELATED PRODUCTS SUBSTANCES GENERALLY RECOGNIZED AS SAFE Nutrients and/or Dietary Supplements...

  2. A highly sensitive luminescent probe based on Ru(II)-bipyridine complex for Cu2+, l-Histidine detection and cellular imaging.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Shi-Ting; Li, Panpan; Liao, Caiyun; Luo, Tingting; Kou, Xingming; Xiao, Dan

    2018-05-02

    A ruthenium(II) bipyridyl complex conjugated with functionalized Schiff base (RuA) has been synthesized and functioned as a luminescent probe. The luminescence of RuA was greatly quenched by Cu 2+ due to its molecular coordination with paramagnetic Cu 2+ . Subsequently, the addition of l-Histidine can turn on the luminescence of the RuA-Cu(II) ensemble, which can be attributed to the replacement of RuA in RuA-Cu(II) ensemble by l-Histidine. On the basis of the quenching and recovery of the luminescence of RuA, we proposed a rapid and highly sensitive on-off-on luminescent assay for sensing Cu 2+ and l-Histidine in aqueous solution. Under the optimal conditions, Cu 2+ and l-Histidine can be detected in the concentration range of 5 nM-9.0 μM and 50 nM-30 μM, respectively, and the corresponding detection limits were calculated to be 0.35 and 0.44 nM (S/N=3), separately. The proposed luminescent probe has been successfully utilized for the analysis of Cu 2+ and l-Histidine in real samples (drinking water and biological fluids). Furthermore, the probe revealed good photostability, low cytotoxicity and excellent permeability, making it a suitable candidate for cell imaging and labeling in vitro. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Interaction of L-alanyl-L-valine and L-valyl-L-alanine with organic vapors: thermal stability of clathrates, sorption capacity and the change in the morphology of dipeptide films.

    PubMed

    Ziganshin, Marat A; Gubina, Nadezhda S; Gerasimov, Alexander V; Gorbatchuk, Valery V; Ziganshina, Sufia A; Chuklanov, Anton P; Bukharaev, Anastas A

    2015-08-21

    The strong effect of the amino acid sequence in L-alanyl-L-valine and L-valyl-L-alanine on their sorption properties toward organic compounds and water, and the thermal stability of the inclusion compounds of these dipeptides have been found. Generally, L-valyl-L-alanine has a greater sorption capacity for the studied compounds, but the thermal stability of the L-alanyl-L-valine clathrates is higher. Unusual selectivity of L-valyl-L-alanine for vapors of few chloroalkanes was observed. The correlation between the change in the surface morphology of thin film of dipeptides and stoichiometry of their clathrates with organic compounds was found. This discovery may be used to predict the influence of vapors on the morphology of films of short-chain oligopeptides.

  4. Histidine-lysine peptides as carriers of nucleic acids.

    PubMed

    Leng, Qixin; Goldgeier, Lisa; Zhu, Jingsong; Cambell, Patricia; Ambulos, Nicholas; Mixson, A James

    2007-03-01

    With their biodegradability and diversity of permutations, peptides have significant potential as carriers of nucleic acids. This review will focus on the sequence and branching patterns of peptide carriers composed primarily of histidines and lysines. While lysines within peptides are important for binding to the negatively charged phosphates, histidines are critical for endosomal lysis enabling nucleic acids to reach the cytosol. Histidine-lysine (HK) polymers by either covalent or ionic bonds with liposomes augment transfection compared to liposome carriers alone. More recently, we have examined peptides as sole carriers of nucleic acids because of their intrinsic advantages compared to the bipartite HK/liposome carriers. With a protocol change and addition of a histidine-rich tail, HK peptides as sole carriers were more effective than liposomes alone in several cell lines. While four-branched polymers with a primary repeating sequence pattern of -HHK- were more effective as carriers of plasmids, eight-branched polymers with a sequence pattern of -HHHK- were more effective as carriers of siRNA. Compared to polyethylenimine, HK carriers of siRNA and plasmids had reduced toxicity. When injected intravenously, HK polymers in complex with plasmids encoding antiangiogenic proteins significantly decreased tumor growth. Furthermore, modification of HK polymers with polyethylene glycol and vascular-specific ligands increased specificity of the polyplex to the tumor by more than 40-fold. Together with further development and insight on the structure of HK polyplexes, HK peptides may prove to be useful as carriers of different forms of nucleic acids both in vitro and in vivo.

  5. Cresyl saligenin phosphate makes multiple adducts on free histidine, but does not form an adduct on histidine 438 of human butyrylcholinesterase.

    PubMed

    Liyasova, Mariya S; Schopfer, Lawrence M; Lockridge, Oksana

    2013-03-25

    Cresyl saligenin phosphate (CBDP) is a suspected causative agent of "aerotoxic syndrome", affecting pilots, crew members and passengers. CBDP is produced in vivo from ortho-containing isomers of tricresyl phosphate (TCP), a component of jet engine lubricants and hydraulic fluids. CBDP irreversibly inhibits butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) in human plasma by forming adducts on the active site serine (Ser-198). Inhibited BChE undergoes aging to release saligenin and o-cresol. The active site histidine (His-438) was hypothesized to abstract o-hydroxybenzyl moiety from the initial adduct on Ser-198. Our goal was to test this hypothesis. Mass spectral analysis of CBDP-inhibited BChE digested with Glu-C showed an o-hydroxybenzyl adduct (+106 amu) on lysine 499, a residue far from the active site, but not on His-438. Nevertheless, the nitrogen of the imidazole ring of free L-histidine formed a variety of adducts upon reaction with CBDP, including the o-hydroxybenzyl adduct, suggesting that histidine-CBDP adducts may form on other proteins. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Cresyl saligenin phosphate makes multiple adducts on free histidine, but does not form an adduct on histidine 438 of human butyrylcholinesterase

    PubMed Central

    Liyasova, Mariya S.; Schopfer, Lawrence M.; Lockridge, Oksana

    2012-01-01

    Cresyl saligenin phosphate (CBDP) is a suspected causative agent of “aerotoxic syndrome”, affecting pilots, crew members and passengers. CBDP is produced in vivo from ortho-containing isomers of tricresyl phosphate (TCP), a component of jet engine lubricants and hydraulic fluids. CBDP irreversibly inhibits butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) in human plasma by forming adducts on the active site serine (Ser-198). Inhibited BChE undergoes aging to release saligenin and o-cresol. The active site histidine (His-438) was hypothesized to abstract o-hydroxybenzyl moiety from the initial adduct on Ser-198. Our goal was to test this hypothesis. Mass spectral analysis of CBDP-inhibited BChE digested with Glu-C showed an o-hydroxybenzyl adduct (+106 amu) on lysine 499, a residue far from the active site, but not on His-438. Nevertheless, the nitrogen of the imidazole ring of free L-histidine formed a variety of adducts upon reaction with CBDP, including the o-hydroxybenzyl adduct, suggesting that histidine-CBDP adducts may form on other proteins. PMID:22898212

  7. Allosteric Breakage of the Hydrogen Bond within the Dual-Histidine Motif in the Active Site of Human Pin1 PPIase.

    PubMed

    Wang, Jing; Tochio, Naoya; Kawasaki, Ryosuke; Tamari, Yu; Xu, Ning; Uewaki, Jun-Ichi; Utsunomiya-Tate, Naoko; Tate, Shin-Ichi

    2015-08-25

    Intimate cooperativity among active site residues in enzymes is a key factor for regulating elaborate reactions that would otherwise not occur readily. Peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase NIMA-interacting 1 (Pin1) is the phosphorylation-dependent cis-trans peptidyl-prolyl isomerase (PPIase) that specifically targets phosphorylated Ser/Thr-Pro motifs. Residues C113, H59, H157, and T152 form a hydrogen bond network in the active site, as in the noted connection. Theoretical studies have shown that protonation to thiolate C113 leads to rearrangement of this hydrogen bond network, with switching of the tautomeric states of adjacent histidines (H59 and H157) [Barman, A., and Hamelberg, D. (2014) Biochemistry 53, 3839-3850]. This is called the "dual-histidine motif". Here, C113A and C113S Pin1 mutants were found to alter the protonation states of H59 according to the respective residue type replaced at C113, and the mutations resulted in disruption of the hydrogen bond within the dual-histidine motif. In the C113A mutant, H59 was observed to be in exchange between ε- and δ-tautomers, which widened the entrance of the active site cavity, as seen by an increase in the distance between residues A113 and S154. The C113S mutant caused H59 to exchange between the ε-tautomer and imidazolium while not changing the active site structure. Moreover, the imidazole ring orientations of H59 and H157 were changed in the C113S mutant. These results demonstrated that a mutation at C113 modulates the hydrogen bond network dynamics. Thus, C113 acts as a pivot to drive the concerted function among the residues in the hydrogen bond network, as theoretically predicted.

  8. The amino acid sequence around the active-site cysteine and histidine residues of stem bromelain

    PubMed Central

    Husain, S. S.; Lowe, G.

    1970-01-01

    Stem bromelain that had been irreversibly inhibited with 1,3-dibromo[2-14C]-acetone was reduced with sodium borohydride and carboxymethylated with iodoacetic acid. After digestion with trypsin and α-chymotrypsin three radioactive peptides were isolated chromatographically. The amino acid sequences around the cross-linked cysteine and histidine residues were determined and showed a high degree of homology with those around the active-site cysteine and histidine residues of papain and ficin. PMID:5420046

  9. Antioxidant status of turkey breast meat and blood after feeding a diet enriched with histidine.

    PubMed

    Kopec, W; Wiliczkiewicz, A; Jamroz, D; Biazik, E; Pudlo, A; Hikawczuk, T; Skiba, T; Korzeniowska, M

    2016-01-01

    The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of 1) spray dried blood cells rich in histidine and 2) pure histidine added to feed on the antioxidant status and concentration of carnosine related components in the blood and breast meat of female turkeys. The experiment was performed on 168 Big7 turkey females randomly assigned to 3 dietary treatments: control; control with the addition of 0.18% L-histidine (His); and control with the addition of spray dried blood cells (SDBC). Birds were raised for 103 d on a floor with sawdust litter, with drinking water and feed ad libitum. The antioxidant status of blood plasma and breast muscle was analyzed by ferric reducing ability (FRAP) and by 2,2-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals scavenging ability. The activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was analyzed in the blood and breast meat, with the content of carnosine and anserine quantified by HPLC. Proximate analysis as well as amino acid profiling were carried out for the feed and breast muscles. Growth performance parameters also were calculated. Histidine supplementation of the turkey diet resulted in increased DPPH radical scavenging capacity in the breast muscles and blood, but did not result in higher histidine dipeptide concentrations. The enzymatic antioxidant system of turkey blood was affected by the diet with SDBC. In the plasma, the SDBC addition increased both SOD and GPx activity, and decreased GPx activity in the erythrocytes. Feeding turkeys with an SDBC containing diet increased BW and the content of isoleucine and valine in breast muscles. © 2015 Poultry Science Association Inc.

  10. L-histidine inhibits biofilm formation and FLO11-associated phenotypes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae flor yeasts.

    PubMed

    Bou Zeidan, Marc; Zara, Giacomo; Viti, Carlo; Decorosi, Francesca; Mannazzu, Ilaria; Budroni, Marilena; Giovannetti, Luciana; Zara, Severino

    2014-01-01

    Flor yeasts of Saccharomyces cerevisiae have an innate diversity of Flo11p which codes for a highly hydrophobic and anionic cell-wall glycoprotein with a fundamental role in biofilm formation. In this study, 380 nitrogen compounds were administered to three S. cerevisiae flor strains handling Flo11p alleles with different expression levels. S. cerevisiae strain S288c was used as the reference strain as it cannot produce Flo11p. The flor strains generally metabolized amino acids and dipeptides as the sole nitrogen source, although with some exceptions regarding L-histidine and histidine containing dipeptides. L-histidine completely inhibited growth and its effect on viability was inversely related to Flo11p expression. Accordingly, L-histidine did not affect the viability of the Δflo11 and S288c strains. Also, L-histidine dramatically decreased air-liquid biofilm formation and adhesion to polystyrene of the flor yeasts with no effect on the transcription level of the Flo11p gene. Moreover, L-histidine modified the chitin and glycans content on the cell-wall of flor yeasts. These findings reveal a novel biological activity of L-histidine in controlling the multicellular behavior of yeasts [corrected].

  11. L-Histidine Inhibits Biofilm Formation and FLO11-Associated Phenotypes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Flor Yeasts

    PubMed Central

    Bou Zeidan, Marc; Zara, Giacomo; Viti, Carlo; Decorosi, Francesca; Mannazzu, Ilaria; Budroni, Marilena; Giovannetti, Luciana; Zara, Severino

    2014-01-01

    Flor yeasts of Saccharomyces cerevisiae have an innate diversity of FLO11 which codes for a highly hydrophobic and anionic cell-wall glycoprotein with a fundamental role in biofilm formation. In this study, 380 nitrogen compounds were administered to three S. cerevisiae flor strains handling FLO11 alleles with different expression levels. S. cerevisiae strain S288c was used as the reference strain as it cannot produce FLO11p. The flor strains generally metabolized amino acids and dipeptides as the sole nitrogen source, although with some exceptions regarding L-histidine and histidine containing dipeptides. L-histidine completely inhibited growth and its effect on viability was inversely related to FLO11 expression. Accordingly, L-histidine did not affect the viability of the Δflo11 and S288c strains. Also, L-histidine dramatically decreased air–liquid biofilm formation and adhesion to polystyrene of the flor yeasts with no effect on the transcription level of the FLO11 gene. Moreover, L-histidine modified the chitin and glycans content on the cell-wall of flor yeasts. These findings reveal a novel biological activity of L-histidine in controlling the multicellular behavior of yeasts. PMID:25369456

  12. Molecular switch-modulated fluorescent copper nanoclusters for selective and sensitive detection of histidine and cysteine.

    PubMed

    Gu, Zefeng; Cao, Zhijuan

    2018-06-07

    A novel assay for histidine and cysteine has been constructed based on modulation of fluorescent copper nanoclusters (CuNCs) by molecular switches. In our previous work, a dumbbell DNA template with a poly-T (thymine) loop has been developed as an excellent template for the formation of strongly fluorescent CuNCs. Herein, for the first time, we established this biosensor for sensing two amino acids by using dumbbell DNA-templated CuNCs as the single probe. Among 20 natural amino acids, only histidine and cysteine can selectively quench fluorescence emission of CuNCs, because of the specific interaction of these compounds with copper ions. Furthermore, by using nickel ions (Ni 2+ ) and N-ethylmaleimide as the masking agents for histidine and cysteine respectively, an integrated logic gate system was designed by coupling with the fluorescent CuNCs and demonstrated selective and sensitive detection of cysteine and histidine. Under optimal conditions, cysteine can be detected in the concentration ranges of 0.01-10.0 μM with the detection limit (DL) of as low as 98 pM, while histidine can be detected in the ranges of 0.05-40.0 μM with DL of 1.6 nM. In addition, histidine and cysteine can be observed with the naked eye under a hand-held UV lamp (DL, 50 nM), which can be easily adapted to automated high-throughput screening. Finally, the strategy has been successfully utilized for biological fluids. The proposed system can be conducted in homogeneous solution, eliminating the need for organic cosolvents, separation processes of nanomaterials, or any chemical modifications. Overall, the assay provides an alternative method for simultaneous detection of cysteine and histidine by taking the advantages of high speed, no label and enzyme requirement, and good sensitivity and specificity, and will satisfy the great demand for determination of amino acids in fields such as food processing, biochemistry, pharmaceuticals, and clinical analysis. Graphical abstract.

  13. Identification of the mpl gene encoding UDP-N-acetylmuramate: L-alanyl-gamma-D-glutamyl-meso-diaminopimelate ligase in Escherichia coli and its role in recycling of cell wall peptidoglycan.

    PubMed Central

    Mengin-Lecreulx, D; van Heijenoort, J; Park, J T

    1996-01-01

    A gene, mpl, encoding UDP-N-acetylmuramate:L-alanyl-gamma-D-glutamyl-meso-diaminopimelat e ligase was recognized by its amino acid sequence homology with murC as the open reading frame yjfG present at 96 min on the Escherichia coli map. The existence of such an enzymatic activity was predicted from studies indicating that reutilization of the intact tripeptide L-alanyl-gamma-D-glutamyl-meso-diaminopimelate occurred and accounted for well over 30% of new cell wall synthesis. Murein tripeptide ligase activity could be demonstrated in crude extracts, and greatly increased activity was produced when the gene was cloned and expressed under control of the trc promoter. A null mutant totally lacked activity but was viable, showing that the enzyme is not essential for growth. PMID:8808921

  14. LOV Histidine Kinase Modulates the General Stress Response System and Affects the virB Operon Expression in Brucella abortus

    PubMed Central

    Sycz, Gabriela; Carrica, Mariela Carmen; Tseng, Tong-Seung; Bogomolni, Roberto A.; Briggs, Winslow R.; Goldbaum, Fernando A.; Paris, Gastón

    2015-01-01

    Brucella is the causative agent of the zoonotic disease brucellosis, and its success as an intracellular pathogen relies on its ability to adapt to the harsh environmental conditions that it encounters inside the host. The Brucella genome encodes a sensor histidine kinase containing a LOV domain upstream from the kinase, LOVHK, which plays an important role in light-regulated Brucella virulence. In this report we study the intracellular signaling pathway initiated by the light sensor LOVHK using an integrated biochemical and genetic approach. From results of bacterial two-hybrid assays and phosphotransfer experiments we demonstrate that LOVHK functionally interacts with two response regulators: PhyR and LovR, constituting a functional two-component signal-transduction system. LOVHK contributes to the activation of the General Stress Response (GSR) system in Brucella via PhyR, while LovR is proposed to be a phosphate-sink for LOVHK, decreasing its phosphorylation state. We also show that in the absence of LOVHK the expression of the virB operon is down-regulated. In conclusion, our results suggest that LOVHK positively regulates the GSR system in vivo, and has an effect on the expression of the virB operon. The proposed regulatory network suggests a similar role for LOVHK in other microorganisms. PMID:25993430

  15. Arginine in the salt-induced peptide formation reaction: enantioselectivity facilitated by glycine, L- and D-histidine.

    PubMed

    Li, Feng; Fitz, Daniel; Fraser, Donald G; Rode, Bernd M

    2010-07-01

    The salt-induced peptide formation reaction has been proposed as a conceivable preliminary to the prebiotic evolution of peptides. In the present paper, the behaviour of arginine is reported for this reaction together with a discussion of the catalytic effects of glycine, and L- and D-histidine. Importantly, the behaviour of the two histidine enantiomers is different. Both histidine enantiomers perform better than glycine in enhancing the yields of arginine dipeptide with L-histidine being more effective than D-histidine. Yields in the presence of histidine are up to 70 times greater than for arginine solutions alone. This compares with 4.2 times higher in the presence of glycine. This difference is most pronounced in the most concentrated (containing 80 mM arginine) reaction solution where arginine has the lowest reactivity. A distinct preference for dimerisation of L-arginine also appears in the 80 mM cases for catalyses of other amino acids. This phenomenon is different from the behaviour of aliphatic amino acids, which display obvious inherent enantioselectivity for the L-stereomers in the SIPF reaction on their own rather than when catalysed by glycine or histidine.

  16. The pepper cysteine/histidine-rich DC1 domain protein CaDC1 binds both RNA and DNA and is required for plant cell death and defense response.

    PubMed

    Hwang, In Sun; Choi, Du Seok; Kim, Nak Hyun; Kim, Dae Sung; Hwang, Byung Kook

    2014-01-01

    Plant defense against microbial pathogens is coordinated by a complex regulatory network. Cysteine/histidine-rich DC1 domain proteins mediate a variety of cellular processes involved in plant growth, development and stress responses. We identified a pepper (Capsicum annuum) cysteine/histidine-rich DC1 domain protein gene, CaDC1, which positively regulates plant defense during microbial infection, based on gene silencing and transient expression in pepper, as well as ectopic expression in Arabidopsis. Induction of CaDC1 by avirulent Xanthomonas campestris pv vesicatoria (Xcv) infection was pronounced at both transcriptional and translational levels in pepper leaves. Purified CaDC1 protein bound to both DNA and RNA in vitro, especially in the presence of Zn(2+). CaDC1 was localized to both the nucleus and the cytoplasm, which was required for plant cell death signaling. The nuclear localization of CaDC1 was dependent on the divergent C1 (DC1) domain. CaDC1 silencing in pepper conferred increased susceptibility to Xcv infection, which was accompanied by reduced salicylic acid accumulation and defense-related gene expression. Ectopic expression of CaDC1 in Arabidopsis enhanced resistance to Hyaloperonospora arabidopsidis. CaDC1 binds both RNA and DNA and functions as a positive regulator of plant cell death and SA-dependent defense responses. © 2013 The Authors. New Phytologist © 2013 New Phytologist Trust.

  17. A proline-to-histidine mutation in POU1F1 is associated with production traits in dairy cattle.

    PubMed

    Huang, W; Maltecca, C; Khatib, H

    2008-10-01

    POU class 1 homeobox 1 (POU1F1) is a member of the tissue-specific POU-containing transcription factor family. The expression of POU1F1 in mammalian pituitary gland controls the transcription of the genes encoding growth hormone, prolactin (PRL) and the subunits of thyroid-stimulating hormone. In addition, some genes in the JAK/STAT signalling pathway downstream of POU1F1 have been shown to be associated with different production traits in dairy cattle. To investigate whether the POU1F1 gene is associated with economically important traits in dairy cattle, a pooled DNA sequencing approach was used to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the gene. An SNP in exon 3 of POU1F1 that changes a proline to a histidine was identified. A total of 2141 individuals from two North American Holstein cattle resource populations were genotyped for this SNP using a modified PCR-RFLP method. Statistical analyses revealed significant association of POU1F1 variants with milk yield and productive life, which makes POU1F1 a possible candidate for marker-assisted selection in dairy cattle breeding programmes.

  18. Structure and Functional Characterization of Human Histidine Triad Nucleotide-Binding Protein 1 Mutations Associated with Inherited Axonal Neuropathy with Neuromyotonia.

    PubMed

    Shah, Rachit M; Maize, Kimberly M; West, Harrison T; Strom, Alexander M; Finzel, Barry C; Wagner, Carston R

    2018-05-19

    Inherited peripheral neuropathies are a group of neurodegenerative disorders that clinically affect 1 in 2500 individuals. Recently, genetic mutations in human histidine nucleotide-binding protein 1 (hHint1) have been strongly and most frequently associated with patients suffering from axonal neuropathy with neuromyotonia. However, the correlation between the impact of these mutations on the hHint1 structure, enzymatic activity and in vivo function has remained ambiguous. Here, we provide detailed biochemical characterization of a set of these hHint1 mutations. Our findings indicate that half of the mutations (R37P, G93D and W123*) resulted in a destabilization of the dimeric state and a significant decrease in catalytic activity and HINT1 inhibitor binding affinity. The H112N mutant was found to be dimeric, but devoid of catalytic activity, due to the loss of the catalytically essential histidine; nevertheless, it exhibited high affinity to AMP and a HINT1 inhibitor. In contrast to the active-site mutants, the catalytic activity and dimeric structure of the surface mutants, C84R and G89V, were found to be similar to the wild-type enzyme. Taken together, our results suggest that the pathophysiology of inherited axonal neuropathy with neuromyotonia can be induced by conversion of HINT1 from a homodimer to monomer, by modification of select surface residues or by a significant reduction of the enzyme's catalytic efficiency. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  19. Supplementation of l-Alanyl-l-Glutamine and Fish Oil Improves Body Composition and Quality of Life in Patients With Chronic Heart Failure.

    PubMed

    Wu, Christina; Kato, Tomoko S; Ji, Ruiping; Zizola, Cynthia; Brunjes, Danielle L; Deng, Yue; Akashi, Hirokazu; Armstrong, Hilary F; Kennel, Peter J; Thomas, Tiffany; Forman, Daniel E; Hall, Jennifer; Chokshi, Aalap; Bartels, Matthew N; Mancini, Donna; Seres, David; Schulze, P Christian

    2015-11-01

    Skeletal muscle dysfunction and exercise intolerance are clinical hallmarks of patients with heart failure. These have been linked to a progressive catabolic state, skeletal muscle inflammation, and impaired oxidative metabolism. Previous studies suggest beneficial effects of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and glutamine on exercise performance and muscle protein balance. In a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 31 patients with heart failure were randomized to either l-alanyl-l-glutamine (8 g/d) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (6.5 g/d) or placebo (safflower oil and milk powder) for 3 months. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, 6-minute walk test, hand grip strength, functional muscle testing, echocardiography, and quality of life and lateral quadriceps muscle biopsy were performed at baseline and at follow-up. Oxidative capacity and metabolic gene expression were analyzed on muscle biopsies. No differences in muscle function, echocardiography, 6-minute walk test, or hand grip strength and a nonsignificant increase in peak VO2 in the treatment group were found. Lean body mass increased and quality of life improved in the active treatment group. Molecular analysis revealed no differences in muscle fiber composition, fiber cross-sectional area, gene expression of metabolic marker genes (PGC1α, CPT1, PDK4, and GLUT4), and skeletal muscle oxidative capacity. The combined supplementation of l-alanyl-l-glutamine and polyunsaturated fatty acid did not improve exercise performance or muscle function but increased lean body mass and quality of life in patients with chronic stable heart failure. These findings suggest potentially beneficial effects of high-dose nutritional polyunsaturated fatty acids and amino acid supplementations in patients with chronic stable heart failure. URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01534663. © 2015 American Heart Association, Inc.

  20. Role of individual histidines in the pH-dependent global stability of human chloride intracellular channel 1.

    PubMed

    Achilonu, Ikechukwu; Fanucchi, Sylvia; Cross, Megan; Fernandes, Manuel; Dirr, Heini W

    2012-02-07

    Chloride intracellular channel proteins exist in both a soluble cytosolic form and a membrane-bound form. The mechanism of conversion between the two forms is not properly understood, although one of the contributing factors is believed to be the variation in pH between the cytosol (~7.4) and the membrane (~5.5). We systematically mutated each of the three histidine residues in CLIC1 to an alanine at position 74 and a phenylalanine at positions 185 and 207. We examined the effect of the histidine-mediated pH dependence on the structure and global stability of CLIC1. None of the mutations were found to alter the global structure of the protein. However, the stability of H74A-CLIC1 and H185F-CLIC1, as calculated from the equilibrium unfolding data, is no longer dependent on pH because similar trends are observed at pH 7.0 and 5.5. The crystal structures show that the mutations result in changes in the local hydrogen bond coordination. Because the mutant total free energy change upon unfolding is not different from that of the wild type at pH 7.0, despite the presence of intermediates that are not seen in the wild type, we propose that it may be the stability of the intermediate state rather than the native state that is dependent on pH. On the basis of the lower stability of the intermediate in the H74A and H185F mutants compared to that of the wild type, we conclude that both His74 and His185 are involved in triggering the pH changes to the conformational stability of wild-type CLIC1 via their protonation, which stabilizes the intermediate state.

  1. ATP forms a stable complex with the essential histidine kinase WalK (YycG) domain

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

    Celikel, Reha; Veldore, Vidya Harini; Mathews, Irimpan

    The histidine WalK (YycG) plays a crucial role in coordinating murein synthesis with cell division and the crystal structure of its ATP binding domain has been determined. Interestingly the bound ATP was not hydrolyzed during crystallization and remains intact in the crystal lattice. In Bacillus subtilis, the WalRK (YycFG) two-component system coordinates murein synthesis with cell division. It regulates the expression of autolysins that function in cell-wall remodeling and of proteins that modulate autolysin activity. The transcription factor WalR is activated upon phosphorylation by the histidine kinase WalK, a multi-domain homodimer. It autophosphorylates one of its histidine residues by transferringmore » the γ-phosphate from ATP bound to its ATP-binding domain. Here, the high-resolution crystal structure of the ATP-binding domain of WalK in complex with ATP is presented at 1.61 Å resolution. The bound ATP remains intact in the crystal lattice. It appears that the strong binding interactions and the nature of the binding pocket contribute to its stability. The triphosphate moiety of ATP wraps around an Mg{sup 2+} ion, providing three O atoms for coordination in a near-ideal octahedral geometry. The ATP molecule also makes strong interactions with the protein. In addition, there is a short contact between the exocyclic O3′ of the sugar ring and O2B of the β-phosphate, implying an internal hydrogen bond. The stability of the WalK–ATP complex in the crystal lattice suggests that such a complex may exist in vivo poised for initiation of signal transmission. This feature may therefore be part of the sensing mechanism by which the WalRK two-component system is so rapidly activated when cells encounter conditions conducive for growth.« less

  2. Cell fate regulation governed by a repurposed bacterial histidine kinase

    DOE PAGES

    Childers, W. Seth; Xu, Qingping; Mann, Thomas H.; ...

    2014-10-28

    One of the simplest organisms to divide asymmetrically is the bacterium Caulobacter crescentus. The DivL pseudo-histidine kinase, positioned at one cell pole, regulates cell-fate by controlling the activation of the global transcription factor CtrA via an interaction with the response regulator (RR) DivK. DivL uniquely contains a tyrosine at the histidine phosphorylation site, and can achieve these regulatory functions in vivo without kinase activity. Determination of the DivL crystal structure and biochemical analysis of wild-type and site-specific DivL mutants revealed that the DivL PAS domains regulate binding specificity for DivK~P over DivK, which is modulated by an allosteric intramolecular interactionmore » between adjacent domains. We discovered that DivL's catalytic domains have been repurposed as a phosphospecific RR input sensor, thereby reversing the flow of information observed in conventional histidine kinase (HK)-RR systems and coupling a complex network of signaling proteins for cell-fate regulation.« less

  3. Modifications of the pyroglutamic acid and histidine residues in thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) yield analogs with selectivity for TRH receptor type 2 over type 1.

    PubMed

    Kaur, Navneet; Monga, Vikramdeep; Lu, Xinping; Gershengorn, Marvin C; Jain, Rahul

    2007-01-01

    Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) analogs in which the N-1(tau) or the C-2 position of the imidazole ring of the histidine residue is substituted with various alkyl groups and the l-pyroglutamic acid (pGlu) is replaced with the l-pyro-2-aminoadipic acid (pAad) or (R)- and (S)-3-oxocyclopentane-1-carboxylic acid (Ocp) were synthesized and studied as agonists for TRH receptor subtype 1 (TRH-R1) and subtype 2 (TRH-R2). We observed that several analogs were selective agonists of TRH-R2 showing relatively less or no activation of TRH-R1. For example, the most selective agonist of the series 13, in which pGlu is replaced with the pAad and histidine residue is substituted at the N-1 position with an isopropyl group, was found to activate TRH-R2 with a potency (EC(50)=1.9microM) but did not activate TRH-R1 (potency>100 microM); that is, exhibited >51-fold greater selectivity for TRH-R2 versus TRH-R1. Analog 8, in which pGlu is replaced with pAad and histidine is substituted at the N-1(tau) position with a methyl group, exhibited a binding affinity (K(i)=0.0032 microM) to TRH-R1 that is similar to that of [Ntau(1)-Me-His]-TRH and displayed potent activation of TRH-R1 and TRH-R2 (EC(50)=0.0049 and 0.0024 microM, respectively). None of the analogs in which pGlu is replaced with the bioisosteric (R)- and (S)-(Ocp) and the imidazole ring is substituted at the N-1(tau) or C-2 position were found to bind or activate either TRH-R1 or TRH-R2 at the highest test dose of 100 microM.

  4. Tautomerism, acid-base equilibria, and H-bonding of the six histidines in subtilisin BPN′ by NMR

    PubMed Central

    Day, Regina M.; Thalhauser, Craig J.; Sudmeier, James L.; Vincent, Matthew P.; Torchilin, Ekaterina V.; Sanford, David G.; Bachovchin, Christopher W.; Bachovchin, William W.

    2003-01-01

    We have determined by 15N, 1H, and 13C NMR, the chemical behavior of the six histidines in subtilisin BPN′ and their PMSF and peptide boronic acid complexes in aqueous solution as a function of pH in the range of from 5 to 11, and have assigned every 15N, 1H, Cɛ1, and Cδ2 resonance of all His side chains in resting enzyme. Four of the six histidine residues (17, 39, 67, and 226) are neutrally charged and do not titrate. One histidine (238), located on the protein surface, titrates with pKa = 7.30 ± 0.03 at 25°C, having rapid proton exchange, but restricted mobility. The active site histidine (64) in mutant N155A titrates with a pKa value of 7.9 ± 0.3 and sluggish proton exchange behavior, as shown by two-site exchange computer lineshape simulation. His 64 in resting enzyme contains an extremely high Cɛ1-H proton chemical shift of 9.30 parts per million (ppm) owing to a conserved Cɛ1-H. . .O=C H-bond from the active site imidazole to a backbone carbonyl group, which is found in all known serine proteases representing all four superfamilies. Only His 226, and His 64 at high pH, exist as the rare Nδ1-H tautomer, exhibiting 13Cδ1 chemical shifts ~9 ppm higher than those for Nɛ2-H tautomers. His 64 in the PMSF complex, unlike that in the resting enzyme, is highly mobile in its low pH form, as shown by 15N-1H NOE effects, and titrates with rapid proton exchange kinetics linked to a pKa value of 7.47 ± 0.02. PMID:12649438

  5. Role of Heavy Meromyosin in Heat-Induced Gelation in Low Ionic Strength Solution Containing L-Histidine.

    PubMed

    Hayakawa, Toru; Yoshida, Yuri; Yasui, Masanori; Ito, Toshiaki; Wakamatsu, Jun-ichi; Hattori, Akihito; Nishimura, Takanori

    2015-08-01

    The gelation of myosin has a very important role in meat products. We have already shown that myosin in low ionic strength solution containing L-histidine forms a transparent gel after heating. To clarify the mechanism of this unique gelation, we investigated the changes in the nature of myosin subfragments during heating in solutions with low and high ionic strengths with and without L-histidine. The hydrophobicity of myosin and heavy meromyosin (HMM) in low ionic strength solution containing L-histidine was lower than in high ionic strength solution. The SH contents of myosin and HMM in low ionic strength solution containing l-histidine did not change during the heating process, whereas in high ionic strength solution they decreased slightly. The heat-induced globular masses of HMM in low ionic strength solution containing L-histidine were smaller than those in high ionic strength solution. These findings suggested that the polymerization of HMM molecules by heating was suppressed in low ionic strength solution containing L-histidine, resulting in formation of the unique gel. © 2015 Institute of Food Technologists®

  6. Catalysis of peptide bond formation by histidyl-histidine in a fluctuating clay environment

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    White, D. H.; Erickson, J. C.

    1980-01-01

    The condensation of glycine to form oligoglycines during wet-dry fluctuations on clay surfaces was enhanced up to threefold or greater by small amounts of histidyl-histidine. In addition, higher relative yields of the longer oligomers were produced. Other specific dipeptides tested gave no enhancement, and imidazole, histidine, and N-acetylhistidine gave only slight enhancements. Histidyl-histidine apparently acts as a true catalyst (in the sense of repeatedly catalyzing the reaction), since up to 52 nmol of additional glycine were incorporated into oligoglycine for each nmol of catalyst added. This is the first known instance of a peptide or similar molecule demonstrating a catalytic turnover number greater than unity in a prebiotic oligomer synthesis reaction, and suggests that histidyl-histidine is a model for a primitive prebiotic proto-enzyme. Catalysis of peptide bond synthesis by a molecule which is itself a peptide implies that related systems may be capable of exhibiting autocatalytic growth.

  7. Intra- and Interprotein Phosphorylation between Two-hybrid Histidine Kinases Controls Myxococcus xanthus Developmental Progression*

    PubMed Central

    Schramm, Andreas; Lee, Bongsoo; Higgs, Penelope I.

    2012-01-01

    Histidine-aspartate phosphorelay signaling systems are used to couple stimuli to cellular responses. A hallmark feature is the highly modular signal transmission modules that can form both simple “two-component” systems and sophisticated multicomponent systems that integrate stimuli over time and space to generate coordinated and fine-tuned responses. The deltaproteobacterium Myxococcus xanthus contains a large repertoire of signaling proteins, many of which regulate its multicellular developmental program. Here, we assign an orphan hybrid histidine protein kinase, EspC, to the Esp signaling system that negatively regulates progression through the M. xanthus developmental program. The Esp signal system consists of the hybrid histidine protein kinase, EspA, two serine/threonine protein kinases, and a putative transport protein. We demonstrate that EspC is an essential component of this system because ΔespA, ΔespC, and ΔespA ΔespC double mutants share an identical developmental phenotype. Neither substitution of the phosphoaccepting histidine residue nor deletion of the entire catalytic ATPase domain in EspC produces an in vivo mutant developmental phenotype. In contrast, substitution of the receiver phosphoaccepting residue yields the null phenotype. Although the EspC histidine kinase can efficiently autophosphorylate in vitro, it does not act as a phosphodonor to its own receiver domain. Our in vitro and in vivo analyses suggest the phosphodonor is instead the EspA histidine kinase. We propose EspA and EspC participate in a novel hybrid histidine protein kinase signaling mechanism involving both inter- and intraprotein phosphotransfer. The output of this signaling system appears to be the combined phosphorylated state of the EspA and EspC receiver modules. This system regulates the proteolytic turnover of MrpC, an important regulator of the developmental program. PMID:22661709

  8. Albizia lebbeck suppresses histamine signaling by the inhibition of histamine H1 receptor and histidine decarboxylase gene transcriptions.

    PubMed

    Nurul, Islam Mohammed; Mizuguchi, Hiroyuki; Shahriar, Masum; Venkatesh, Pichairajan; Maeyama, Kazutaka; Mukherjee, Pulok K; Hattori, Masashi; Choudhuri, Mohamed Sahabuddin Kabir; Takeda, Noriaki; Fukui, Hiroyuki

    2011-11-01

    Histamine plays major roles in allergic diseases and its action is mediated mainly by histamine H(1) receptor (H1R). We have demonstrated that histamine signaling-related H1R and histidine decarboxylase (HDC) genes are allergic diseases sensitive genes and their expression level affects severity of the allergic symptoms. Therefore, compounds that suppress histamine signaling should be promising candidates as anti-allergic drugs. Here, we investigated the effect of the extract from the bark of Albizia lebbeck (AL), one of the ingredients of Ayruvedic medicines, on H1R and HDC gene expression using toluene-2,4-diisocyanate (TDI) sensitized allergy model rats and HeLa cells expressing endogenous H1R. Administration of the AL extract significantly decreased the numbers of sneezing and nasal rubbing. Pretreatment with the AL extract suppressed TDI-induced H1R and HDC mRNA elevations as well as [(3)H]mepyramine binding, HDC activity, and histamine content in the nasal mucosa. AL extract also suppressed TDI-induced up-regulation of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 mRNA. In HeLa cells, AL extract suppressed phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate- or histamine-induced up-regulation of H1R mRNA. Our data suggest that AL alleviated nasal symptoms by inhibiting histamine signaling in TDI-sensitized rats through suppression of H1R and HDC gene transcriptions. Suppression of Th2-cytokine signaling by AL also suggests that it could affect the histamine-cytokine network. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Amino acids exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in human monocytic leukemia cell line, THP-1 cells.

    PubMed

    Hasegawa, Shunji; Ichiyama, Takashi; Sonaka, Ichiro; Ohsaki, Ayami; Hirano, Reiji; Haneda, Yasuhiro; Fukano, Reiji; Hara, Masami; Furukawa, Susumu

    2011-11-01

    The elemental diet is one of the effective therapies for inflammatory bowel disease. However, the mechanism remains unclear, and there have never been reports about the inhibitory effects of amino acids in human monocytes/macrophages. We investigated the inhibitory effects of amino acids on cytokine production or expression of adhesion molecules that are involved in inflammatory diseases, in human monocytes/macrophages. We examined the inhibitory effects of cysteine, histidine or glycine on the induction of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation, expression of intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1, CD54) and production of interleukin-8 (IL-8) in THP-1 cells, a human monocytic leukemia cell line, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) stimulated with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Cysteine, histidine and glycine significantly reduced the activation of NF-κB in THP-1 cells stimulated with TNF-α. In addition, cysteine and histidine significantly inhibited the expression of ICAM-1 and production of IL-8 in THP-1 cells and PBMCs. Our results suggest that cysteine and histidine exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in THP-1 cells, and may be responsible for the efficacy of treatment in inflammatory bowel diseases.

  10. 21 CFR 862.1375 - Histidine test system.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Histidine test system. 862.1375 Section 862.1375 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES CLINICAL CHEMISTRY AND CLINICAL TOXICOLOGY DEVICES Clinical Chemistry Test Systems § 862...

  11. The active transport of histidine and its role in ATP production in Trypanosoma cruzi.

    PubMed

    Barisón, M J; Damasceno, F S; Mantilla, B S; Silber, A M

    2016-08-01

    Trypanosoma cruzi, the aetiological agent of Chagas's disease, metabolizes glucose, and after its exhaustion, degrades amino acids as energy source. Here, we investigate histidine uptake and its participation in energy metabolism. No putative genes for the histidine biosynthetic pathway have been identified in genome databases of T. cruzi, suggesting that its uptake from extracellular medium is a requirement for the viability of the parasite. From this assumption, we characterized the uptake of histidine in T. cruzi, showing that this amino acid is incorporated through a single and saturable active system. We also show that histidine can be completely oxidised to CO2. This finding, together with the fact that genes encoding the putative enzymes for the histidine - glutamate degradation pathway were annotated, led us to infer its participation in the energy metabolism of the parasite. Here, we show that His is capable of restoring cell viability after long-term starvation. We confirm that as an energy source, His provides electrons to the electron transport chain, maintaining mitochondrial inner membrane potential and O2 consumption in a very efficient manner. Additionally, ATP biosynthesis from oxidative phosphorylation was found when His was the only oxidisable metabolite present, showing that this amino acid is involved in bioenergetics and parasite persistence within its invertebrate host.

  12. Effect of starvation on free histidine and amino acids in white muscle of milkfish Chanos chanos.

    PubMed

    Shiau, C Y; Pong, Y P; Chiou, T K; Tin, Y Y

    2001-03-01

    Milkfish (Chanos chanos) decreased their body weight from 47 to 28 g over the 60-day period of starvation. Starvation also resulted in the reduction of muscle lipid and protein, and hepatosomatic index. The predominant free amino acid (FAA) in white muscle of milkfish was histidine, followed by taurine and glycine. In the first 25 days of starvation, no significant change in histidine was found. After 40 days of starvation, however, the histidine concentration was significantly decreased by 46%, and remained unchanged thereafter. As compared to control group fish, the 60-day-starved fish possessed only half the amount of histidine. Taurine and glycine, on the other hand, showed no significant changes throughout starvation. Taurine became the most predominant in the FAA pool after 40 days of starvation, and the concentration of 60-day-starved fish was two times higher than that of control group fish without starvation. The ratios of histidine, taurine, and glycine to total FAAs remained approximately the same although the individual contributions varied considerably to the total FAAs during starvation. The results of this study suggested that a good strategy would be to keep taurine and glycine in milkfish muscle at relatively high levels for physiological function as histidine decreased drastically for energy source under conditions of food deprivation.

  13. Examination of correlation between histidine and nickel absorption by Morus L., Robinia pseudoacacia L. and Populus nigra L. using HPLC-MS and ICP-MS.

    PubMed

    Ozen, Sukran Akkus; Yaman, Mehmet

    2016-08-02

    In this study, HPLC-MS and ICP-MS methods were used for the determination of histidine and nickel in Morus L., Robinia pseudoacacia L., and Populus nigra L. leaves taken from industrial areas including Gaziantep and Bursa cities. In the determination of histidine by HPLC-MS, all of the system parameters such as flow rate of mobile phase, fragmentor potential, injection volume and column temperature were optimized and found to be 0.2 mL min(-1), 70 V, 15 µL, and 20°C, respectively. Under the optimum conditions, histidine was extracted from plant sample by distilled water at 90°C for 30 min. Concentrations of histidine as mg kg(-1) were found to be between 2-9 for Morus L., 6-13 for Robinia pseudoacacia L., and 2-10 for Populus nigra L. Concentrations of nickel were in the ranges of 5-10 mg kg(-1) for Morus L., 3-10 mg kg(-1) for Robinia pseudoacacia L., and 0.6-4 mg kg(-1) for Populus nigra L. A significant linear correlation (r = 0.78) between histidine and Ni was observed for Populus nigra L., whereas insignificant linear correlation for Robinia pseudoacacia L. (r = 0.22) were seen. Limits of detection (LOD) and quantitation (LOQ) were found to be 0.025 mg Ni L(-1) and 0.075 mg Ni L(-1), respectively.

  14. Design of composite microparticle systems based on pectin and waste material of propolis for modified l-alanyl-l-glutamine release and with immunostimulant activity.

    PubMed

    Villa Nova, Mônica; Ratti, Bianca A; Herculano, Leandro S; Bittencourt, Paulo R S; Novello, Cláudio R; Bazotte, Roberto Barbosa; Lautenschlager, Sueli de Oliveira Silva; Bruschi, Marcos Luciano

    2017-12-12

    Catabolic conditions like acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, cancer, and burn can cause immunosuppression. Amino acids such as alanine and glutamine are essential for the activity of the immune system. Propolis is immunostimulant and the waste of propolis extraction has been reused with technological and therapeutic purposes. Therefore, this study describes the association of propolis byproduct extract (BPE) with pectin to prepare spray-dried microparticles containing the dipeptide l-alanyl-l-glutamine as stimulant systems of neutrophils. The use of a factorial design allowed selecting the best formulation, which was characterized by morphology, size, and entrapment efficiency analyses. In addition, the systems were characterized by thermal and X-ray diffraction analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, in vitro drug release, and in vitro cytotoxicity and stimulation test of neutrophils. Small well-structured microparticles with good entrapment efficiency values were achieved. Thermal stability of formulation was observed, and it was proved that pectin, BPE and l-alanyl-l-glutamine were dispersed throughout the matrix. The drug was released from the microparticles during 24 h governed by swelling and diffusion. The drug-loaded formulations showed a significant stimulating effect on neutrophils. These structures could increase the activity of immune cells, and other in vitro and in vivo studies should be performed in the future.

  15. Effects of histidine and n-acetylcysteine on experimental lesions induced by doxorubicin in sciatic nerve of rats.

    PubMed

    Farshid, Amir Abbas; Tamaddonfard, Esmaeal; Najafi, Sima

    2015-10-01

    In this study, the effect of separate and combined intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of histidine and n-acetylcysteine were investigated on experimental damage induced by doxorubicin (DOX) in sciatic nerve of rats. DOX was i.p. injected at a dose of 4 mg/kg once weekly for four weeks. Histidine and n-acetylcysteine were i.p. injected at a same dose of 20 mg/kg. Cold and mechanical allodynia were recorded using acetone spray and von Frey filaments tests, respectively. The sciatic nerve damage was evaluated by light microscopy. Plasma levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured. Histidine and especially n-acetylcysteine at a same dose of 20 mg/kg suppressed cold and mechanical allodynia, improved sciatic nerve lesions and reversed MDA and TAC levels in DOX-treated groups. Combination treatment with histidine and n-acetylcysteine showed better responses when compared with them used alone. The results of the present study showed peripheral neuroprotective effects for histidine and n-acetylcysteine. Reduction of free radical-induced toxic effects may have a role in neuroprotective properties of histidine and n-acetylcysteine.

  16. L-alanyl-L-glutamine ingestion maintains performance during a competitive basketball game.

    PubMed

    Hoffman, Jay R; Williams, David R; Emerson, Nadia S; Hoffman, Mattan W; Wells, Adam J; McVeigh, Daniele M; McCormack, William P; Mangine, Gerald T; Gonzalez, Adam M; Fragala, Maren S

    2012-03-07

    The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of L-alanyl-L-glutamine (AG) ingestion on basketball performance, including jump power, reaction time, shooting accuracy and fatigue. Ten women (21.2 ± 1.6 years; height: 177.8 ± 8.7 cm; body mass: 73.5 ± 8.0 kg), all scholarship NCAA Division I basketball players, volunteered for this study. Subjects participated in four trials, each consisting of a 40-min basketball game with controlled time-outs for rehydration. During the first trial (DHY) subjects were not allowed to rehydrate, and the total weight lost during the contest was used to determine fluid replenishment during the subsequent three trials. During one trial subjects consumed only water (W), while during the other two trials subjects consumed the AG supplement mixed in water using either a low dose (1 g per 500 ml) (AG1) or high dose (2 g per 500 ml) (AG2) concentration. All data assessed prior to and following each game were converted into a Δ score (Post results - Pre results). All performance data were then analyzed using a one-way repeated measures analysis of variance. During DHY subjects lost 1.72 ± 0.42 kg (2.3%) of their body mass. No differences in fluid intake (1.55 ± 0.43 L) were seen between rehydration trials. A 12.5% (p = 0.016) difference in basketball shooting performance was noted between DHY and AG1 and an 11.1% (p = 0.029) difference was seen between AG1 and W. Visual reaction time was significantly greater following AG1 (p = 0.014) compared to DHY. Differences (p = 0.045) in fatigue, as determined by player loads, were seen only between AG2 and DHY. No differences were seen in peak or mean vertical jump power during any trial. Rehydration with AG appears to maintain basketball skill performance and visual reaction time to a greater extent than water only.

  17. Influence of different histidine sources and zinc supplementation of broiler diets on dipeptide content and antioxidant status of blood and meat.

    PubMed

    Kopeć, W; Jamroz, D; Wiliczkiewicz, A; Biazik, E; Pudlo, A; Hikawczuk, T; Skiba, T; Korzeniowska, M

    2013-01-01

    1. The objective of this study was to investigate how a diet containing spray-dried blood cells (SDBC) (4%) with or without zinc (Zn) would affect the concentration of two histidine heterodipeptides and the antioxidant status of broiler blood and breast muscles. 2. The study was carried out on 920 male Flex chickens randomly assigned to 4 dietary treatments: I - control, II - diet I with SDBC, III - diet I with SDBC and supplemented with Zn and IV - diet I supplemented with L-histidine. Birds were raised on floor littered with wood shavings, given free access to water and fed ad libitum. Performance indices were measured on d 1, 21 and 42. 3. The activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase was analysed in plasma, erythrocytes and muscle tissue. The total antioxidant capacity of plasma and breast muscles was measured by 2,2-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability, as well as by ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Carnosine/anserine content of meat and plasma were determined using HPLC. Diets and breast muscles were analysed for amino acid profile and selected microelement content. 4. Histidine supplementation of the diet increased glutathione peroxidase activity in plasma and superoxide dismutase activity in erythrocytes. Moreover, the addition of SDBC or pure histidine in the diet increased histidine dipeptide content and activated enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems in chicken blood and muscles. However, it led to lower growth performance indices. 5. The enrichment of broiler diets with Zn increased the antioxidant potential and the activity of superoxide dismutase in plasma, which was independent of the histidine dipeptide concentration. Zn supplementation combined with SDBC in a broiler diet led to the increase of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity, but it did not affect the radical

  18. Atomic view of the histidine environment stabilizing higher-pH conformations of pH-dependent proteins

    PubMed Central

    Valéry, Céline; Deville-Foillard, Stéphanie; Lefebvre, Christelle; Taberner, Nuria; Legrand, Pierre; Meneau, Florian; Meriadec, Cristelle; Delvaux, Camille; Bizien, Thomas; Kasotakis, Emmanouil; Lopez-Iglesias, Carmen; Gall, Andrew; Bressanelli, Stéphane; Le Du, Marie-Hélène; Paternostre, Maïté; Artzner, Franck

    2015-01-01

    External stimuli are powerful tools that naturally control protein assemblies and functions. For example, during viral entry and exit changes in pH are known to trigger large protein conformational changes. However, the molecular features stabilizing the higher pH structures remain unclear. Here we elucidate the conformational change of a self-assembling peptide that forms either small or large nanotubes dependent on the pH. The sub-angstrom high-pH peptide structure reveals a globular conformation stabilized through a strong histidine-serine H-bond and a tight histidine-aromatic packing. Lowering the pH induces histidine protonation, disrupts these interactions and triggers a large change to an extended β-sheet-based conformation. Re-visiting available structures of proteins with pH-dependent conformations reveals both histidine-containing aromatic pockets and histidine-serine proximity as key motifs in higher pH structures. The mechanism discovered in this study may thus be generally used by pH-dependent proteins and opens new prospects in the field of nanomaterials. PMID:26190377

  19. Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production of Flower-like Cadmium Sulfide Decorated by Histidine

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Qizhao; Lian, Juhong; Li, Jiajia; Wang, Rongfang; Huang, Haohao; Su, Bitao; Lei, Ziqiang

    2015-01-01

    Morphology-controlled synthesis of CdS can significantly enhance the efficiency of its photocatalytic hydrogen production. In this study, a novel three-dimensional (3D) flower-like CdS is synthesized via a facile template-free hydrothermal process using Cd(NO3)2•4H2O and thiourea as precursors and L-Histidine as a chelating agent. The morphology, crystal phase, and photoelectrochemical performance of the flower-like CdS and pure CdS nanocrystals are carefully investigated via various characterizations. Superior photocatalytic activity relative to that of pure CdS is observed on the flower-like CdS photocatalyst under visible light irradiation, which is nearly 13 times of pure CdS. On the basis of the results from SEM studies and our analysis, a growth mechanism of flower-like CdS is proposed by capturing the shape evolution. The imidazole ring of L-Histidine captures the Cd ions from the solution, and prevents the growth of the CdS nanoparticles. Furthermore, the photocatalytic contrast experiments illustrate that the as-synthesized flower-like CdS with L-Histidine is more stable than CdS without L-Histidine in the hydrogen generation. PMID:26337119

  20. Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production of Flower-like Cadmium Sulfide Decorated by Histidine

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Qizhao; Lian, Juhong; Li, Jiajia; Wang, Rongfang; Huang, Haohao; Su, Bitao; Lei, Ziqiang

    2015-09-01

    Morphology-controlled synthesis of CdS can significantly enhance the efficiency of its photocatalytic hydrogen production. In this study, a novel three-dimensional (3D) flower-like CdS is synthesized via a facile template-free hydrothermal process using Cd(NO3)2•4H2O and thiourea as precursors and L-Histidine as a chelating agent. The morphology, crystal phase, and photoelectrochemical performance of the flower-like CdS and pure CdS nanocrystals are carefully investigated via various characterizations. Superior photocatalytic activity relative to that of pure CdS is observed on the flower-like CdS photocatalyst under visible light irradiation, which is nearly 13 times of pure CdS. On the basis of the results from SEM studies and our analysis, a growth mechanism of flower-like CdS is proposed by capturing the shape evolution. The imidazole ring of L-Histidine captures the Cd ions from the solution, and prevents the growth of the CdS nanoparticles. Furthermore, the photocatalytic contrast experiments illustrate that the as-synthesized flower-like CdS with L-Histidine is more stable than CdS without L-Histidine in the hydrogen generation.

  1. Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production of Flower-like Cadmium Sulfide Decorated by Histidine.

    PubMed

    Wang, Qizhao; Lian, Juhong; Li, Jiajia; Wang, Rongfang; Huang, Haohao; Su, Bitao; Lei, Ziqiang

    2015-09-04

    Morphology-controlled synthesis of CdS can significantly enhance the efficiency of its photocatalytic hydrogen production. In this study, a novel three-dimensional (3D) flower-like CdS is synthesized via a facile template-free hydrothermal process using Cd(NO3)2•4H2O and thiourea as precursors and L-Histidine as a chelating agent. The morphology, crystal phase, and photoelectrochemical performance of the flower-like CdS and pure CdS nanocrystals are carefully investigated via various characterizations. Superior photocatalytic activity relative to that of pure CdS is observed on the flower-like CdS photocatalyst under visible light irradiation, which is nearly 13 times of pure CdS. On the basis of the results from SEM studies and our analysis, a growth mechanism of flower-like CdS is proposed by capturing the shape evolution. The imidazole ring of L-Histidine captures the Cd ions from the solution, and prevents the growth of the CdS nanoparticles. Furthermore, the photocatalytic contrast experiments illustrate that the as-synthesized flower-like CdS with L-Histidine is more stable than CdS without L-Histidine in the hydrogen generation.

  2. Switch-on fluorescent/FRET probes to study human histidine triad nucleotide binding protein 1 (hHint1), a novel target for opioid tolerance and neuropathic pain.

    PubMed

    Shah, Rachit; Zhou, Andrew; Wagner, Carston R

    2017-12-13

    Histidine Triad Nucleotide Binding Protein 1 (Hint1) has emerged to be an important post-synaptic protein associated with a variety of central nervous system disorders such as pain, addiction, and schizophrenia. Recently, inhibition of histidine nucleotide binding protein 1 (Hint1) with a small nucleoside inhibitor has shown promise as a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of neuropathic pain. Herein, we describe the first rationally designed small molecule switch-on probes with dual fluorescence and FRET properties to study Hint1. Two non-natural fluorescent nucleosides with a fluorescent lifetime of 20 and 25 ns were each coupled through a linker to the indole ring, i.e. probes 7 and 8. Both probes were found to be water soluble and quenched intramolecularly via photoinduced electron transfer (PET) resulting in minimal background fluorescence. Upon incubating with Hint1, compound 7 and 8 exhibited a 40- and 16-fold increase in the fluorescence intensity compared to the control. Compounds 7 and 8 bind Hint1 with a dissociation constant of 0.121 ± 0.02 and 2.2 ± 0.36 μM, respectively. We demonstrate that probe 8 exhibits a switch-on FRET property with an active site tryptophan residue (W123). We show the utility of probes in performing quantitative ligand displacement studies, as well as in selective detection of Hint1 in the cell lysates. These probes should be useful for studying the dynamics of the active site, as well as for the development of fluorescence lifetime based high throughput screening assay to identify novel inhibitors for Hint1 in future.

  3. Characterization of structure and activity of garlic peroxidase (POX(1B)).

    PubMed

    El Ichi, Sarra; Miodek, Anna; Sauriat-Dorizon, Hélène; Mahy, Jean-Pierre; Henry, Céline; Marzouki, Mohamed Nejib; Korri-Youssoufi, Hafsa

    2011-01-01

    Structural characterization and study of the activity of new POX(1B) protein from garlic which has a high peroxidase activity and can be used as a biosensor for the detection of hydrogen peroxide and phenolic compounds were performed and compared with the findings for other heme peroxidases. The structure-function relationship was investigated by analysis of the spectroscopic properties and correlated to the structure determined by a new generation of high-performance hybrid mass spectrometers. The reactivity of the enzyme was analyzed by studies of the redox activity toward various ligands and the reactivity with various substrates. We demonstrated that, in the case of garlic peroxidase, the heme group is pentacoordinated, and has an histidine as a proximal ligand. POX(1B) exhibited a high affinity for hydrogen peroxide as well as various reducing cosubstrates. In addition, high enzyme specificity was demonstrated. The k(cat) and K(M) values were 411 and 400 mM(-1) s(-1) for 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine and 2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), respectively. Furthermore, the reduction of nitro compounds in the presence of POX(1B) was demonstrated by iron(II) nitrosoalkane complex assay. In addition, POX(1B) showed a great potential for application for drug metabolism since its ability to react with 1-nitrohexane in the presence of sodium dithionite was demonstrated by the appearance of a characteristic Soret band at 411 nm. The high catalytic efficiency obtained in the case of the new garlic peroxidase (POX(1B)) is suitable for the monitoring of different analytes and biocatalysis.

  4. The two parallel photocycles of the Chlamydomonas sensory photoreceptor histidine kinase rhodopsin 1.

    PubMed

    Luck, Meike; Hegemann, Peter

    2017-10-01

    Histidine kinase rhodopsins (HKRs) belong to a class of unexplored sensory photoreceptors that share a similar modular architecture. The light sensing rhodopsin domain is covalently linked to signal-transducing modules and in some cases to a C-terminal guanylyl-cyclase effector. In spite of their wide distribution in unicellular organisms, very little is known about their physiological role and mechanistic functioning. We investigated the photochemical properties of the recombinant rhodopsin-fragment of Cr-HKR1 originating from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Our spectroscopic studies revealed an unusual thermal stability of the photoproducts with the deprotonated retinal Schiff base (RSB). Upon UV-irradiation these Rh-UV states with maximal absorbance in the UVA-region (Rh-UV) photochemically convert to stable blue light absorbing rhodopsin (Rh-Bl) with protonated chromophore. The heterogeneity of the sample is based on two parallel photocycles with the chromophore in C 15 =N-syn- or -anti-configuration. This report represents an attempt to decipher the underlying reaction schemes and interconversions of the two coexisting photocycles. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

  5. Structural, evolutionary and genetic analysis of the histidine biosynthetic "core" in the genus Burkholderia.

    PubMed

    Papaleo, Maria Cristiana; Russo, Edda; Fondi, Marco; Emiliani, Giovanni; Frandi, Antonio; Brilli, Matteo; Pastorelli, Roberta; Fani, Renato

    2009-12-01

    In this work a detailed analysis of the structure, the expression and the organization of his genes belonging to the core of histidine biosynthesis (hisBHAF) in 40 newly determined and 13 available sequences of Burkholderia strains was carried out. Data obtained revealed a strong conservation of the structure and organization of these genes through the entire genus. The phylogenetic analysis showed the monophyletic origin of this gene cluster and indicated that it did not undergo horizontal gene transfer events. The analysis of the intergenic regions, based on the substitution rate, entropy plot and bendability suggested the existence of a putative transcription promoter upstream of hisB, that was supported by the genetic analysis that showed that this cluster was able to complement Escherichia colihisA, hisB, and hisF mutations. Moreover, a preliminary transcriptional analysis and the analysis of microarray data revealed that the expression of the his core was constitutive. These findings are in agreement with the fact that the entire Burkholderiahis operon is heterogeneous, in that it contains "alien" genes apparently not involved in histidine biosynthesis. Besides, they also support the idea that the proteobacterial his operon was piece-wisely assembled, i.e. through accretion of smaller units containing only some of the genes (eventually together with their own promoters) involved in this biosynthetic route. The correlation existing between the structure, organization and regulation of his "core" genes and the function(s) they perform in cellular metabolism is discussed.

  6. Virulence Effects and Signaling Partners Modulated by Brucella melitensis Light-sensing Histidine Kinase

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gourley, Christopher R.

    The facultative intracellular pathogen Brucella melitensis utilizes diverse virulence factors. A Brucella light sensing histidine kinase can influence in vitro virulence of the bacteria during intracellular infection. First, we demonstrated that the B. melitensis light sensing kinase (BM-LOV-HK) affects virulence in an IRF-1-/- mouse model of infection. Infection with a Δ BM-LOV-HK strain resulted in less bacterial colonization of IRF-1-/- spleens and extended survivorship compared to mice infected with wild type B. melitensis 16M. Second, using PCR arrays, we observed less expression of innate and adaptive immune system activation markers in ΔBM-LOV-HK infected mouse spleens than wild type B. melitensis 16M infected mouse spleens 6 days after infection. Third, we demonstrated by microarray analysis of B. melitensis that deletion of BM-LOV-HK alters bacterial gene expression. Downregulation of genes involved in control of the general stress response system included the alternative sigma factor RpoE1 and its anti-anti sigma factor PhyR. Conversely, genes involved in flagella production, quorum sensing, and the type IV secretion system (VirB operon) were upregulated in the Δ BM-LOV-HK strain compared to the wild type B. melitensis 16M. Analysis of genes differentially regulated in Δ BM-LOV-HK versus the wild type strain indicated an overlap of 110 genes with data from previous quorum sensing regulator studies of Δ vjbR and/ΔblxR(babR) strains. Also, several predicted RpoE1 binding sites located upstream of genes were differentially regulated in the ΔBM-LOV-HK strain. Our results suggest BM-LOV-HK is important for in vivo Brucella virulence, and reveals that BM-LOV-HK directly or indirect regulates members of the Brucella quorum sensing, type IV secretion, and general stress systems.

  7. Effects of L-histidine depletion and L-tyrosine/L-phenylalanine depletion on sensory and motor processes in healthy volunteers

    PubMed Central

    van Ruitenbeek, P; Sambeth, A; Vermeeren, A; Young, SN; Riedel, WJ

    2009-01-01

    Background and purpose: Animal studies show that histamine plays a role in cognitive functioning and that histamine H3-receptor antagonists, which increase histaminergic function through presynaptic receptors, improve cognitive performance in models of clinical cognitive deficits. In order to test such new drugs in humans, a model for cognitive impairments induced by low histaminergic functions would be useful. Studies with histamine H1-receptor antagonists have shown limitations as a model. Here we evaluated whether depletion of L-histidine, the precursor of histamine, was effective in altering measures associated with histamine in humans and the behavioural and electrophysiological (event-related-potentials) effects. Experimental approach: Seventeen healthy volunteers completed a three-way, double-blind, crossover study with L-histidine depletion, L-tyrosine/L-phenylalanine depletion (active control) and placebo as treatments. Interactions with task manipulations in a choice reaction time task were studied. Task demands were increased using visual stimulus degradation and increased response complexity. In addition, subjective and objective measures of sedation and critical tracking task performance were assessed. Key results: Measures of sedation and critical tracking task performance were not affected by treatment. L-histidine depletion was effective and enlarged the effect of response complexity as measured with the response-locked lateralized readiness potential onset latency. Conclusions and implications: L-histidine depletion affected response- but not stimulus-related processes, in contrast to the effects of H1-receptor antagonists which were previously found to affect primarily stimulus-related processes. L-histidine depletion is promising as a model for histamine-based cognitive impairment. However, these effects need to be confirmed by further studies. PMID:19413574

  8. Understanding the role of histidine in the GHSxG acyltransferase active site motif: Evidence for histidine stabilization of the malonyl-enzyme intermediate

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

    Poust, Sean; Yoon, Isu; Adams, Paul D.

    Acyltransferases determine which extender units are incorporated into polyketide and fatty acid products. Thus, the ping-pong acyltransferase mechanism utilizes a serine in a conserved GHSxG motif. However, the role of the conserved histidine in this motif is poorly understood. We observed that a histidine to alanine mutation (H640A) in the GHSxG motif of the malonyl-CoA specific yersiniabactin acyltransferase results in an approximately seven-fold higher hydrolysis rate over the wildtype enzyme, while retaining transacylation activity. We propose two possibilities for the reduction in hydrolysis rate: either H640 structurally stabilizes the protein by hydrogen bonding with a conserved asparagine in the ferredoxin-likemore » subdomain of the protein, or a water-mediated hydrogen bond between H640 and the malonyl moiety stabilizes the malonyl-O-AT ester intermediate.« less

  9. Understanding the role of histidine in the GHSxG acyltransferase active site motif: Evidence for histidine stabilization of the malonyl-enzyme intermediate

    DOE PAGES

    Poust, Sean; Yoon, Isu; Adams, Paul D.; ...

    2014-10-06

    Acyltransferases determine which extender units are incorporated into polyketide and fatty acid products. Thus, the ping-pong acyltransferase mechanism utilizes a serine in a conserved GHSxG motif. However, the role of the conserved histidine in this motif is poorly understood. We observed that a histidine to alanine mutation (H640A) in the GHSxG motif of the malonyl-CoA specific yersiniabactin acyltransferase results in an approximately seven-fold higher hydrolysis rate over the wildtype enzyme, while retaining transacylation activity. We propose two possibilities for the reduction in hydrolysis rate: either H640 structurally stabilizes the protein by hydrogen bonding with a conserved asparagine in the ferredoxin-likemore » subdomain of the protein, or a water-mediated hydrogen bond between H640 and the malonyl moiety stabilizes the malonyl-O-AT ester intermediate.« less

  10. Structural Insights into the HWE Histidine Kinase Family: The Brucella Blue Light-Activated Histidine Kinase Domain.

    PubMed

    Rinaldi, Jimena; Arrar, Mehrnoosh; Sycz, Gabriela; Cerutti, María Laura; Berguer, Paula M; Paris, Gastón; Estrín, Darío Ariel; Martí, Marcelo Adrián; Klinke, Sebastián; Goldbaum, Fernando Alberto

    2016-03-27

    In response to light, as part of a two-component system, the Brucella blue light-activated histidine kinase (LOV-HK) increases its autophosphorylation, modulating the virulence of this microorganism. The Brucella histidine kinase (HK) domain belongs to the HWE family, for which there is no structural information. The HWE family is exclusively present in proteobacteria and usually coupled to a wide diversity of light sensor domains. This work reports the crystal structure of the Brucella HK domain, which presents two different dimeric assemblies in the asymmetric unit: one similar to the already described canonical parallel homodimers (C) and the other, an antiparallel non-canonical (NC) dimer, each with distinct relative subdomain orientations and dimerization interfaces. Contrary to these crystallographic structures and unlike other HKs, in solution, the Brucella HK domain is monomeric and still active, showing an astonishing instability of the dimeric interface. Despite this instability, using cross-linking experiments, we show that the C dimer is the functionally relevant species. Mutational analysis demonstrates that the autophosphorylation activity occurs in cis. The different relative subdomain orientations observed for the NC and C states highlight the large conformational flexibility of the HK domain. Through the analysis of these alternative conformations by means of molecular dynamics simulations, we also propose a catalytic mechanism for Brucella LOV-HK. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Exploiting 1,2,3-Triazolium Ionic Liquids for Synthesis of Tryptanthrin and Chemoselective Extraction of Copper(II) Ions and Histidine-Containing Peptides.

    PubMed

    Li, Hsin-Yi; Chen, Chien-Yuan; Cheng, Hui-Ting; Chu, Yen-Ho

    2016-10-13

    Based on a common structural core of 4,5,6,7-tetrahydro[1,2,3]triazolo[1,5- a ]pyridine, a number of bicyclic triazolium ionic liquids 1 - 3 were designed and successfully prepared. In our hands, this optimized synthesis of ionic liquids 1 and 2 requires no chromatographic separation. Also in this work, ionic liquids 1 , 2 were shown to be efficient ionic solvents for fast synthesis of tryptanthrin natural product. Furthermore, a new affinity ionic liquid 3 was tailor-synthesized and displayed its effectiveness in chemoselective extraction of both Cu(II) ions and, for the first time, histidine-containing peptides.

  12. Effect of ethanol on crystallization of the polymorphs of L-histidine

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wantha, Lek; Punmalee, Neeranuch; Sawaddiphol, Vanida; Flood, Adrian E.

    2018-05-01

    It is known that the antisolvents used for crystallization can affect the crystallization outcome and may promote the crystallization of a specific polymorph. In this study L-histidine (L-his) is used as a model substance, and ethanol was selected to be an antisolvent. The formation of the polymorphs of L-his in antisolvent crystallization as a function of supersaturation, ethanol volume fraction, and temperature was studied. The induction time for the antisolvent crystallization was also measured. The results showed that the induction time decreases with higher supersaturation and ethanol volume fraction, indicating that the nucleation rate of L-his from antisolvent crystallization (where water was used as the solvent and ethanol as the antisolvent) increases with higher supersaturation, as expected, and ethanol fraction. At all temperatures studied, the pure metastable polymorph B of L-his was obtained initially at higher ethanol volume fraction and supersaturation, while a mixture of the polymorphs A and B was obtained at lower ethanol volume fraction and supersaturation.

  13. Signal Transduction in Histidine Kinases: Insights from New Structures

    PubMed Central

    Bhate, Manasi P.; Molnar, Kathleen S.; Goulian, Mark; DeGrado, William F.

    2015-01-01

    Histidine kinases (HKs) are major players in bacterial signaling. There has been an explosion of new HK crystal structures in the last five years. We globally analyze the structures of HKs to yield insights into the mechanisms by which signals are transmitted to and across protein structures in this family. We interpret known enzymological data in the context of new structural data to show how asymmetry across the dimer interface is a key feature of signal transduction in HKs, and discuss how different HK domains undergo asymmetric-to-symmetric transitions during signal transduction and catalysis. A thermodynamic framework for signaling that encompasses these various properties is presented and the consequences of weak thermodynamic coupling are discussed. The synthesis of observations from enzymology, structural biology, protein engineering and thermodynamics paves the way for a deeper molecular understanding of histidine kinase signal transduction. PMID:25982528

  14. Heat-induced gelation of myosin in a low ionic strength solution containing L-histidine.

    PubMed

    Hayakawa, T; Yoshida, Y; Yasui, M; Ito, T; Iwasaki, T; Wakamatsu, J; Hattori, A; Nishimura, T

    2012-01-01

    Binding properties are important for meat products and are substantially derived from the heat-induced gelation of myosin. We have shown that myosin is solubilized in a low ionic strength solution containing L-histidine. To clarify its processing characteristics, we investigated properties and structures of heat-induced gels of myosin solubilized in a low ionic strength solution containing L-histidine. Myosin in a low ionic strength solution formed transparent gels at 40-50°C, while myosin in a high ionic strength solution formed opaque gels at 60-70°C. The gel of myosin in a low ionic strength solution with L-histidine showed a fine network consisting of thin strands and its viscosity was lower than that of myosin in a high ionic strength solution at 40-50°C. The rheological properties of heat-induced gels of myosin at low ionic strength are different from those at high ionic strength. This difference might be caused by structural changes in the rod region of myosin in a low ionic strength solution containing L-histidine. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. L-Histidine sensing by calcium sensing receptor inhibits voltage-dependent calcium channel activity and insulin secretion in β-cells

    PubMed Central

    Parkash, Jai; Asotra, Kamlesh

    2011-01-01

    Aims Our goal was to test the hypothesis that the histidine-induced activation of calcium sensing receptor (CaR) can regulate calcium channel activity of L-type voltage dependent calcium channel (VDCC) due to increased spatial interaction between CaR and VDCC in β-cells and thus modulate glucose-induced insulin secretion. Main methods Rat insulinoma (RINr1046-38) insulin-producing β-cells were cultured in RPMI-1640 medium on 25 mm diameter glass coverslips in six-well culture plates in a 5% CO2 incubator at 37°C. The intracellular calcium concentration, [Ca2+]i, was determined by ratio fluorescence microscopy using Fura-2AM. The spatial interactions between CaR and L-type VDCC in β-cells were measured by immunofluorescence confocal microscopy using a Nikon C1 laser scanning confocal microscope. The insulin release was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Key findings The additions of increasing concentrations of L-histidine along with 10 mM glucose resulted in 57% decrease in [Ca2+]i. The confocal fluorescence imaging data showed 5.59 to 8.62-fold increase in colocalization correlation coefficient between CaR and VDCC in β-cells exposed to L-histidine thereby indicating increased membrane delimited spatial interactions between these two membrane proteins. The insulin ELISA data showed 54% decrease in 1st phase of glucose-induced insulin secretion in β-cells exposed to increasing concentrations of L-histidine. Significance L-histidine-induced increased spatial interaction of CaR with VDCC can inhibit calcium channel activity of VDCC and consequently regulate glucose-induced insulin secretion by β-cells. The L-type VDCC could therefore be potential therapeutic target in diabetes. PMID:21219913

  16. Alanyl-glutamine supplementation regulates mTOR and ubiquitin proteasome proteolysis signaling pathways in piglets.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Bolin; Lin, Meng; Yu, Changning; Li, Jiaolong; Zhang, Lin; Zhou, Ping; Yang, Wenwei; Gao, Feng; Zhou, Guanghong

    2016-10-01

    The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of the alanyl-glutamine dipeptide (Ala-Gln) or the combination supplementation of free alanine and glutamine (Ala+Gln) on the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and ubiquitin-proteasome proteolysis (UPP) signaling pathways in piglets. We randomly allocated 180 piglets to three treatments with three replicates of 20 piglets each, fed with diets containing 0.62% Ala, 0.5% Ala-Gln, 0.21% Ala+0.34% Gln, respectively. The duration of the experiment was 28 d. The results showed that Ala-Gln increased average daily gain of piglets, and decreased the ratio of feed to gain (P < 0.05). Ala-Gln supplementation increased the concentrations of Gln and glutamate and decreased the activity of glutamine synthetase in liver and skeletal muscle (P < 0.05). Ala-Gln increased the expression of glutaminase and glutamate dehydrogenate (P < 0.05). The increased phosphorylation of eIF-4 E binding protein 1 (4E-BP1) and ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) in Ala-Gln treatment were associated with phosphorylation of the mTOR in liver and skeletal muscle. Ala+Gln did not affect the phosphorylation abundances of mTOR, 4E-BP1, or S6K1 (P > 0.05). Ala-Gln supplementation inhibited the mRNA expressions of MAFbx and MuRF1 in skeletal muscle of piglets (P < 0.05). Taken together, Ala-Gln supplementation improved the growth performance of piglets, enhanced the metabolism of Gln, upregulated protein synthetic signaling in liver and skeletal muscle and decreased protein degradative signaling in muscle of piglets. Moreover, these effects of Ala-Gln were more effective than those of Ala+Gln. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Effect of histidine on sorafenib-induced vascular damage: Analysis using novel medaka fish model.

    PubMed

    Shinagawa-Kobayashi, Yoko; Kamimura, Kenya; Goto, Ryo; Ogawa, Kohei; Inoue, Ryosuke; Yokoo, Takeshi; Sakai, Norihiro; Nagoya, Takuro; Sakamaki, Akira; Abe, Satoshi; Sugitani, Soichi; Yanagi, Masahiko; Fujisawa, Koichi; Nozawa, Yoshizu; Koyama, Naoto; Nishina, Hiroshi; Furutani-Seiki, Makoto; Sakaida, Isao; Terai, Shuji

    2018-02-05

    Sorafenib (SFN) is an anti-angiogenic chemotherapeutic that prolongs survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); its side effects, including vascular damages such as hand-foot syndrome (HFS), are a major cause of therapy discontinuation. We previously reported that maintenance of peripheral blood flow by intake of dried bonito broth (DBB) significantly prevented HFS and prolonged the administration period. The amino acids contained in DBB probably contribute to its effects, but the mechanism has not been clarified. We hypothesized that histidine, the largest component among the amino acids contained in DBB, has effects on SFN-induced vascular damage, and evaluated this possibility using a novel medaka fish model. The fli::GFP transgenic medaka fish model has a fluorescently visible systemic vasculature. We fed the fish with SFN with and without histidine to compare blood flow and vascular structure among the differently fed models. The vascular cross-sectional area of each fish was measured to determine vascular diameter changes. Our results demonstrated that SFN-fed medaka developed a narrower vascular diameter. In addition, this narrowing was counteracted by addition of histidine to the medaka diet. We observed no positive effect of histidine on regeneration of cut vessels or on cell growth of endothelial cells and HCC cell lines. We proved the efficacy of the medaka model to assess vascular changes after administration of specific chemicals. And our results suggest that SFN causes vascular damage by narrowing peripheral vessel diameter, and that histidine effectively counteracts these changes to maintain blood flow. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Structural Characterization of the Predominant Family of Histidine Kinase Sensor Domains

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

    Zhang, Z.; Hendrickson, W

    2010-01-01

    Histidine kinase (HK) receptors are used ubiquitously by bacteria to monitor environmental changes, and they are also prevalent in plants, fungi, and other protists. Typical HK receptors have an extracellular sensor portion that detects a signal, usually a chemical ligand, and an intracellular transmitter portion that includes both the kinase domain itself and the site for histidine phosphorylation. While kinase domains are highly conserved, sensor domains are diverse. HK receptors function as dimers, but the molecular mechanism for signal transduction across cell membranes remains obscure. In this study, eight crystal structures were determined from five sensor domains representative of themore » most populated family, family HK1, found in a bioinformatic analysis of predicted sensor domains from transmembrane HKs. Each structure contains an inserted repeat of PhoQ/DcuS/CitA (PDC) domains, and similarity between sequence and structure is correlated across these and other double-PDC sensor proteins. Three of the five sensors crystallize as dimers that appear to be physiologically relevant, and comparisons between ligated structures and apo-state structures provide insights into signal transmission. Some HK1 family proteins prove to be sensors for chemotaxis proteins or diguanylate cyclase receptors, implying a combinatorial molecular evolution.« less

  19. Hemoglobin istanbul: substitution of glutamine for histidine in a proximal histidine (F8(92)β)

    PubMed Central

    Aksoy, M.; Erdem, S.; Efremov, G. D.; Wilson, J. B.; Huisman, T. H. J.; Schroeder, W. A.; Shelton, J. R.; Shelton, J. B.; Ulitin, O. N.; Müftüoğlu, A.

    1972-01-01

    A presumably spontaneous mutation has resulted in the formation of Hemoglobin (Hb) Istanbul in which glutamine is substituted for histidine in the proximal position of the β-chain (F8(92)). The anemia and other physiological effects that occur in the presence of Hb Istanbul were much ameliorated by splenectomy. Hb Istanbul is a relatively unstable molecule which produces a rather moderate case of “unstable hemoglobin hemolytic anemia.” In the determination of structure, a method of preferential cleavage of an aspartyl-proline bond at residues 99-100 of the β-chain was used. Images PMID:4639022

  20. Detoxification of aldehydes by histidine-containing dipeptides: from chemistry to clinical implications

    PubMed Central

    Xie, Zhengzhi; Baba, Shahid P.; Sweeney, Brooke R.; Barski, Oleg A.

    2015-01-01

    Aldehydes are generated by oxidized lipids and carbohydrates at increased levels under conditions of metabolic imbalance and oxidative stress during atherosclerosis, myocardial and cerebral ischemia, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases and trauma. In most tissues, aldehydes are detoxified by oxidoreductases that catalyze the oxidation or the reduction of aldehydes or enzymatic and nonenzymatic conjugation with low molecular weight thiols and amines, such as glutathione and histidine dipeptides. Histidine dipeptides are present in micromolar to millimolar range in the tissues of vertebrates, where they are involved in a variety of physiological functions such as pH buffering, metal chelation, oxidant and aldehyde scavenging. Histidine dipeptides such as carnosine form Michael adducts with lipid-derived unsaturated aldehydes, and react with carbohydrate-derived oxo- and hydroxy- aldehydes forming products of unknown structure. Although these peptides react with electrophilic molecules at lower rate than glutathione, they can protect glutathione from modification by oxidant and they may be important for aldehyde quenching in glutathione-depleted cells or extracellular space where glutathione is scarce. Consistent with in vitro findings, treatment with carnosine has been shown to diminish ischemic injury, improve glucose control, ameliorate the development of complications in animal models of diabetes and obesity, promote wound healing and decrease atherosclerosis. The protective effects of carnosine have been linked to its anti-oxidant properties, it ability to promote glycolysis, detoxify reactive aldehydes and enhance histamine levels. Thus, treatment with carnosine and related histidine dipeptides may be a promising strategy for the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with high carbonyl load. PMID:23313711

  1. Detoxification of aldehydes by histidine-containing dipeptides: from chemistry to clinical implications.

    PubMed

    Xie, Zhengzhi; Baba, Shahid P; Sweeney, Brooke R; Barski, Oleg A

    2013-02-25

    Aldehydes are generated by oxidized lipids and carbohydrates at increased levels under conditions of metabolic imbalance and oxidative stress during atherosclerosis, myocardial and cerebral ischemia, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases and trauma. In most tissues, aldehydes are detoxified by oxidoreductases that catalyze the oxidation or the reduction of aldehydes or enzymatic and nonenzymatic conjugation with low molecular weight thiols and amines, such as glutathione and histidine dipeptides. Histidine dipeptides are present in micromolar to millimolar range in the tissues of vertebrates, where they are involved in a variety of physiological functions such as pH buffering, metal chelation, oxidant and aldehyde scavenging. Histidine dipeptides such as carnosine form Michael adducts with lipid-derived unsaturated aldehydes, and react with carbohydrate-derived oxo- and hydroxy-aldehydes forming products of unknown structure. Although these peptides react with electrophilic molecules at lower rate than glutathione, they can protect glutathione from modification by oxidant and they may be important for aldehyde quenching in glutathione-depleted cells or extracellular space where glutathione is scarce. Consistent with in vitro findings, treatment with carnosine has been shown to diminish ischemic injury, improve glucose control, ameliorate the development of complications in animal models of diabetes and obesity, promote wound healing and decrease atherosclerosis. The protective effects of carnosine have been linked to its anti-oxidant properties, its ability to promote glycolysis, detoxify reactive aldehydes and enhance histamine levels. Thus, treatment with carnosine and related histidine dipeptides may be a promising strategy for the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with high carbonyl load. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Bacterial hybrid histidine kinases in plant-bacteria interactions.

    PubMed

    Borland, Stéphanie; Prigent-Combaret, Claire; Wisniewski-Dyé, Florence

    2016-10-01

    Two-component signal transduction systems are essential for many bacteria to maintain homeostasis and adapt to environmental changes. Two-component signal transduction systems typically involve a membrane-bound histidine kinase that senses stimuli, autophosphorylates in the transmitter region and then transfers the phosphoryl group to the receiver domain of a cytoplasmic response regulator that mediates appropriate changes in bacterial physiology. Although usually found on distinct proteins, the transmitter and receiver modules are sometimes fused into a so-called hybrid histidine kinase (HyHK). Such structure results in multiple phosphate transfers that are believed to provide extra-fine-tuning mechanisms and more regulatory checkpoints than classical phosphotransfers. HyHK-based regulation may be crucial for finely tuning gene expression in a heterogeneous environment such as the rhizosphere, where intricate plant-bacteria interactions occur. In this review, we focus on roles fulfilled by bacterial HyHKs in plant-associated bacteria, providing recent findings on the mechanistic of their signalling properties. Recent insights into understanding additive regulatory properties fulfilled by the tethered receiver domain of HyHKs are also addressed.

  3. Short communication: the effects of histidine-supplemented drinking water on the performance of lactating dairy cows.

    PubMed

    Doelman, J; Purdie, N G; Osborne, V R; Cant, J P

    2008-10-01

    An experiment was conducted to test the hypothesis that a sufficient proportion of histidine (His) included in the drinking water of lactating cows bypasses the rumen to have an effect on milk synthesis. Eight dairy cows (45 +/- 15 d in milk) were given either 0 or 2.5 g/L of His in the drinking water in a crossover design of two 7-d periods. Cows were offered a corn and alfalfa silage-based total mixed ration for ad libitum intake. Water was provided ad libitum to each cow in an individual automatic drinking vessel with a flow meter attached. Water intake tended to increase from 85.1 to 92.1 L/d when His was added. Concentrations of His in plasma samples collected on the last day of each period tended to increase from 14.6 to 21.6 muM, corresponding to an estimated 0.4% bypass of the imbibed histidine. Other amino acid concentrations in plasma were not affected by His supplementation. Milk yield increased by 1.7 L/d with His treatment, lactose yield increased by 90 g/d, and there were tendencies for protein yield to increase, fat percentage to decrease, and protein to fat ratio to increase. An improvement in postruminal histidine flow can influence milk production and composition but the proportion of imbibed water that bypasses the rumen will have to be increased to take advantage of drinking water as a vehicle to transfer His postruminally.

  4. Metabolic Control of Virulence Genes in Brucella abortus: HutC Coordinates virB Expression and the Histidine Utilization Pathway by Direct Binding to Both Promoters ▿ †

    PubMed Central

    Sieira, Rodrigo; Arocena, Gastón M.; Bukata, Lucas; Comerci, Diego J.; Ugalde, Rodolfo A.

    2010-01-01

    Type IV secretion systems (T4SS) are multicomponent machineries involved in the translocation of effector molecules across the bacterial cell envelope. The virB operon of Brucella abortus codes for a T4SS that is essential for virulence and intracellular multiplication of the bacterium in the host. Previous studies showed that the virB operon of B. abortus is tightly regulated within the host cells. In order to identify factors implicated in the control of virB expression, we searched for proteins of Brucella that directly bind to the virB promoter (PvirB). Using different procedures, we isolated a 27-kDa protein that binds specifically to PvirB. This protein was identified as HutC, the transcriptional repressor of the histidine utilization (hut) genes. Analyses of virB and hut promoter activity revealed that HutC exerts two different roles: it acts as a coactivator of transcription of the virB operon, whereas it represses the hut genes. Such activities were observed both intracellularly and in bacteria incubated under conditions that resemble the intracellular environment. Electrophoresis mobility shift assays (EMSA) and DNase I footprinting experiments revealed the structure, affinity, and localization of the HutC-binding sites and supported the regulatory role of HutC in both hut and virB promoters. Taken together, these results indicate that Brucella coopted the function of HutC to coordinate the Hut pathway with transcriptional regulation of the virB genes, probably as a way to sense its own metabolic state and develop adaptive responses to overcome intracellular host defenses. PMID:19854911

  5. Impact of Stainless Steel Exposure on the Oxidation of Polysorbate 80 in Histidine Placebo and Active Monoclonal Antibody Formulation.

    PubMed

    Gopalrathnam, Ganapathy; Sharma, Anant Navanithan; Dodd, Steven Witt; Huang, Lihua

    2018-01-01

    Rapid oxidation of polysorbate 80 in histidine buffer was observed upon brief exposure to stainless steel. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis indicates degradation of both polyoxyethylene sorbitan and polyoxyethylene head groups and unsaturated fatty acid chains, with further confirmation by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography data. Both Fe 2+ and Fe 3+ were shown to induce polysorbate 80 oxidation. The degree of oxidation in polysorbate 20 and polysorbate 80 are comparable for the head groups and saturated fatty acid esters. However, the same phenomenon was not observed with placebo or monoclonal antibody at a threshold protein concentration, formulated in sodium citrate, in combination with histidine and sodium citrate, or with Na 2 ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Further, polysorbate 80 oxidation was not observed with Lilly's antibody containing the active ingredient LY2951742, at or above a threshold concentration. Finally, no major polysorbate 80 degradation was observed in histidine buffer, with or without protein, in containers composed of glass or plastic, or when stainless steel exposure was otherwise completely absent. Finally, the 2-oxo oxidation form of histidine was not observed, but the other oxidation products and modifications of histidine were identified. LAY ABSTRACT: Rapid oxidation of polysorbate 80 in histidine buffer was observed upon brief exposure to stainless steel. The degree of oxidation in polysorbate 80 and polysorbate 20 were comparable. However, the same phenomenon was not observed with placebo when formulated in sodium citrate, in combination with histidine and sodium citrate, or with Na 2 ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Polysorbate 80 oxidation was not observed with Lilly's antibody containing the active ingredient, LY2951742, at or above a threshold concentration. No major polysorbate 80 degradation in histidine buffer was observed when stainless steel contact was completely absent.

  6. [Low-frequency vibrations of a Mg pyropheophorbide-histidine complex].

    PubMed

    Klevanic, A V; Shuvalov, V A

    2001-01-01

    The spectrum of vibrations and normal model for the Mg piropheophorbide-histidine complex was calculated using the MNDO-PM3 (MOPAC) semiempirical quantum chemical method. The delocalization index and the distribution function were introduced to describe the shape of normal vibrations. The greatest part (approximately 65%) of the low-frequency vibrations (1-400 cm-1) was shown to delocalize over both the His and Mg piropheophorbide molecules. Leu, Met, and Asp were also studied as the fifth ligand to the Mg piropheophorbide molecule. It is concluded that the fifth amino acid ligand to porphyrin molecules causes marked geometrical distortions in porphyrin, and induces a new, compared to four coordinated pigment, spectrum of normal modes.

  7. Neighbor-directed histidine N(τ) alkylation. A route to imidazolium-containing phosphopeptide macrocycles

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

    Qian, Wen-Jian; Park, Jung-Eun; Grant, Robert

    2015-07-07

    Our recently discovered, selective, on-resin route to N(τ)-alkylated imidazolium-containing histidine residues affords new strategies for peptide mimetic design. In this, we demonstrate the use of this chemistry to prepare a series of macrocyclic phosphopeptides, in which imidazolium groups serve as ring-forming junctions. These cationic moieties subsequently serve to charge-mask the phosphoamino acid group that directed their formation. Furthermore, neighbor-directed histidine N(τ)-alkylation opens the door to new families of phosphopeptidomimetics for use in a range of chemical biology contexts.

  8. Potassium sensing histidine kinase in Bacillus subtilis.

    PubMed

    López, Daniel; Gontang, Erin A; Kolter, Roberto

    2010-01-01

    The soil-dwelling organism Bacillus subtilis is able to form multicellular aggregates known as biofilms. It was recently reported that the process of biofilm formation is activated in response to the presence of various, structurally diverse small-molecule natural products. All of these small-molecule natural products made pores in the membrane of the bacterium, causing the leakage of potassium cations from the cytoplasm of the cell. The potassium cation leakage was sensed by the membrane histidine kinase KinC, triggering the genetic pathway to the production of the extracellular matrix that holds cells within the biofilm. This chapter presents the methodology used to characterize the leakage of cytoplasmic potassium as the signal that induces biofilm formation in B. subtilis via activation of KinC. Development of novel techniques to monitor activation of gene expression in microbial populations led us to discover the differentiation of a subpopulation of cells specialized to produce the matrix that holds all cells together within the biofilm. This phenomenon of cell differentiation was previously missed by conventional techniques used to monitor transcriptional gene expression. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Effects of grain, fructose, and histidine on ruminal pH and fermentation products during an induced subacute acidosis protocol.

    PubMed

    Golder, H M; Celi, P; Rabiee, A R; Heuer, C; Bramley, E; Miller, D W; King, R; Lean, I J

    2012-04-01

    The effects of grain, fructose, and histidine on ruminal pH and fermentation products were studied in dairy cattle during an induced subacute acidosis protocol. Thirty Holstein heifers were randomly allocated to 5 treatment groups: (1) control (no grain); (2) grain [fed at a crushed triticale dry matter intake (DMI) of 1.2% of body weight (BW)]; (3) grain (0.8% of BW DMI)+fructose (0.4% of BW DMI); (4) grain (1.2% of BW DMI)+histidine (6 g/head); and (5) grain (0.8% of BW DMI)+fructose (0.4% of BW DMI)+histidine (6 g/head) in a partial factorial arrangement. Heifers were fed 1 kg of grain daily with ad libitum access to ryegrass silage and alfalfa hay for 10 d. Feed was withheld for 14 h before challenge day, on which heifers were fed 200 g of alfalfa hay and then the treatment diets immediately thereafter. Rumen samples were collected 5 min after diet ingestion, 60 min later, and at 3 subsequent 50-min intervals. Grain decreased ruminal pH and increased ammonia, total volatile fatty acid (VFA), acetate, butyrate, propionate, and valerate concentrations compared with controls. The addition of grain had no effect on ruminal D- and L-lactate concentrations. Fructose markedly decreased ruminal pH and markedly increased D- and L-lactate concentrations. Fructose increased total VFA and butyrate and decreased valerate concentrations. Although histidine did not have a marked effect on ruminal fermentation, increased concentrations of histamine were observed following feeding. This study demonstrates that the substitution of some grain for fructose can lower ruminal pH and increase VFA and lactate concentrations, warranting further investigation into the role of sugars on the risk of acidosis in dairy cattle. Copyright © 2012 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Prebiotic synthesis of imidazole-4-acetaldehyde and histidine

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shen, Chun; Yang, Lily; Miller, Stanley L.; Oró, J.

    1987-09-01

    The prebiotic synthesis of imidazole-4-acetaldehyde and imidazole-4-glycol from erythrose and formamidine has been demonstrated as well as the prebiotic synthesis of imidazole-4-ethanol and imidazole-4-glycol from erythrose, formaldehyde and ammonia. The products were identified by TLC, HPLC, and LC-MS by comparison with authentic samples. The maximum yields of imidazole-4-acetaldehyde, imidazole-4-ethanol, and imidazole-4-glycol obtained in these reactions are 1.6, 5.4, 6.8% respectively, based on the erythrose. Imidazole-4-acetaldehyde would have been converted to histidine on the primitive earth by a Strecker synthesis, and several prebiotic reactions would convert imidazole-4-glycol and imidazole-4-ethanol to imidazole-4-acetaldehyde.

  11. Modeling the Histidine-Phenylalanine Interaction: The NH···π Hydrogen Bond of Imidazole·Benzene.

    PubMed

    Trachsel, Maria A; Ottiger, Philipp; Frey, Hans-Martin; Pfaffen, Chantal; Bihlmeier, Angela; Klopper, Wim; Leutwyler, Samuel

    2015-06-25

    NH···π hydrogen bonds occur frequently between the amino acid side groups in proteins and peptides. Data-mining studies of protein crystals find that ∼80% of the T-shaped histidine···aromatic contacts are CH···π, and only ∼20% are NH···π interactions. We investigated the infrared (IR) and ultraviolet (UV) spectra of the supersonic-jet-cooled imidazole·benzene (Im·Bz) complex as a model for the NH···π interaction between histidine and phenylalanine. Ground- and excited-state dispersion-corrected density functional calculations and correlated methods (SCS-MP2 and SCS-CC2) predict that Im·Bz has a Cs-symmetric T-shaped minimum-energy structure with an NH···π hydrogen bond to the Bz ring; the NH bond is tilted 12° away from the Bz C6 axis. IR depletion spectra support the T-shaped geometry: The NH stretch vibrational fundamental is red shifted by -73 cm(-1) relative to that of bare imidazole at 3518 cm(-1), indicating a moderately strong NH···π interaction. While the S0(A1g) → S1(B2u) origin of benzene at 38 086 cm(–1) is forbidden in the gas phase, Im·Bz exhibits a moderately intense S0 → S1 origin, which appears via the D(6h) → Cs symmetry lowering of Bz by its interaction with imidazole. The NH···π ground-state hydrogen bond is strong, De=22.7 kJ/mol (1899 cm–1). The combination of gas-phase UV and IR spectra confirms the theoretical predictions that the optimum Im·Bz geometry is T shaped and NH···π hydrogen bonded. We find no experimental evidence for a CH···π hydrogen-bonded ground-state isomer of Im·Bz. The optimum NH···π geometry of the Im·Bz complex is very different from the majority of the histidine·aromatic contact geometries found in protein database analyses, implying that the CH···π contacts observed in these searches do not arise from favorable binding interactions but merely from protein side-chain folding and crystal-packing constraints. The UV and IR spectra of the imidazole

  12. Crystal structure of B acillus anthracis virulence regulator AtxA and effects of phosphorylated histidines on multimerization and activity: AtxA multimerization, phosphorylation and activity

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

    Hammerstrom, Troy G.; Horton, Lori B.; Swick, Michelle C.

    2014-12-30

    The Bacillus anthracis virulence regulator AtxA controls transcription of the anthrax toxin genes and capsule biosynthetic operon. AtxA activity is elevated during growth in media containing glucose and CO2/bicarbonate, and there is a positive correlation between the CO2/bicarbonate signal, AtxA activity and homomultimerization. AtxA activity is also affected by phosphorylation at specific histidines. We show that AtxA crystallizes as a dimer. Distinct folds associated with predicted DNA-binding domains (HTH1 and HTH2) and phosphoenolpyruvate: carbohydrate phosphotransferase system-regulated domains (PRD1 and PRD2) are apparent. We tested AtxA variants containing single and double phosphomimetic (HisAsp) and phosphoablative (HisAla) amino acid changes for activitymore » in B.anthracis cultures and for protein-protein interactions in cell lysates. Reduced activity of AtxA H199A, lack of multimerization and activity of AtxAH379D variants, and predicted structural changes associated with phosphorylation support a model for control of AtxA function. We propose that (i) in the AtxA dimer, phosphorylation of H199 in PRD1 affects HTH2 positioning, influencing DNA-binding; and (ii) phosphorylation of H379 in PRD2 disrupts dimer formation. The AtxA structure is the first reported high-resolution full-length structure of a PRD-containing regulator, and can serve as a model for proteins of this family, especially those that link virulence to bacterial metabolism.« less

  13. Immunomodulatory constituents from an ascomycete, Microascus tardifaciens.

    PubMed

    Fujimoto, H; Fujimaki, T; Okuyama, E; Yamazaki, M

    1999-10-01

    Fractionation guided by the immunosuppressive activity of the defatted AcOEt extract of an Ascomycete, Microascus tardifaciens, afforded eight constituents, questin (emodin 8-O-methylether) (1), rubrocristin (2), 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylphthalide (3), cladosporin (asperentin) (4), cladosporin 8-O-methylether (5), tradioxopiperazine A [cyclo-L-alanyl-5-isopentenyl-2-(1',1'-dimethylallyl)-L-tryptophan] (6), tradioxopiperazine B [cyclo-L-alanyl-7-isopentenyl-2-(1',1'-dimethylallyl)-L-tryptophan] (7), and asperflavin (8), among which 6 and 7 were new compounds. Compounds 1 and 2 showed considerably high immunosuppressive activity, 6 was moderate and, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8 showed low activity.

  14. Repurposing a Histamine Detection Platform for High-Throughput Screening of Histidine Decarboxylase.

    PubMed

    Juang, Yu-Chi; Fradera, Xavier; Han, Yongxin; Partridge, Anthony William

    2018-06-01

    Histidine decarboxylase (HDC) is the primary enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of histidine to histamine. HDC contributes to many physiological responses as histamine plays important roles in allergic reaction, neurological response, gastric acid secretion, and cell proliferation and differentiation. Small-molecule modulation of HDC represents a potential therapeutic strategy for a range of histamine-associated diseases, including inflammatory disease, neurological disorders, gastric ulcers, and select cancers. High-throughput screening (HTS) methods for measuring HDC activity are currently limited. Here, we report the development of a time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) assay for monitoring HDC activity. The assay is based on competition between HDC-generated histamine and fluorophore-labeled histamine for binding to a Europium cryptate (EuK)-labeled anti-histamine antibody. We demonstrated that the assay is highly sensitive and simple to develop. Assay validation experiments were performed using low-volume 384-well plates and resulted in good statistical parameters. A pilot HTS screen gave a Z' score > 0.5 and a hit rate of 1.1%, and led to the identification of a validated hit series. Overall, the presented assay should facilitate the discovery of therapeutic HDC inhibitors by acting as a novel tool suitable for large-scale HTS and subsequent interrogation of compound structure-activity relationships.

  15. L-carnosine modulates respiratory burst and reactive oxygen species production in neutrophil biochemistry and function: may oral dosage form of non-hydrolized dipeptide L-carnosine complement anti-infective anti-influenza flu treatment, prevention and self-care as an alternative to the conventional vaccination?

    PubMed

    Babizhayev, Mark A; Deyev, Anatoliy I; Yegorov, Yegor E

    2014-05-01

    Influenza A is a viral disease of global dimension, presenting with high morbidity and mortality in annual epidemics, and in pandemics which are of infrequent occurrence but which have very high attack rates. Influenza vaccines of the future must be directed toward use of conserved group-specific viral antigens, such as are present in transitional proteins which are exposed during the fusion of virus to the host cell. Influenza probes revealed a continuing battle for survival between host and parasite in which the host population updates the specificity of its pool of humoral immunity by contact with and response to infection with the most recent viruses which possess altered antigenic specificity in their hemagglutinin (HA) ligand. It is well known that the HA protein is found on the surface of the influenza virus particle and is responsible for binding to receptors on host cells and initiating infection. Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) have been reported to be involved in the initial host response to influenza A virus (IAV). Early after IAV infection, neutrophils infiltrate the airway probably due to release of chemokines that attract PMN. Clearly, severe IAV infection is characterized by increased neutrophil influx into the lung or upper respiratory tract. Carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) and anserine (N-β-alanyl-1-methyl-L-histidine) are found in skeletal muscle of most vertebrates, including those used for food; for example, 100 g of chicken breast contains 400 mg (17.6 mmol/L) of carnosine and 1020 mg (33.6 mmol/l) of anserine. Carnosine-stimulated respiratory burst in neutrophils is a universal biological mechanism of influenza virus destruction. Our own studies revealed previously unappreciated functional effects of carnosine and related histidine containing compounds as a natural biological prevention and barrier against Influenza virus infection, expand public understanding of the antiviral properties of imidazole-containing dipeptide based

  16. Prebiotic synthesis of histidine

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Shen, C.; Yang, L.; Miller, S. L.; Oro, J.

    1990-01-01

    The prebiotic formation of histidine (His) has been accomplished experimentally by the reaction of erythrose with formamidine followed by a Strecker synthesis. In the first step of this reaction sequence, the formation of imidazole-4-acetaldehyde took place by the condensation of erythrose and formamidine, two compounds that are known to be formed under prebiotic conditions. In a second step, the imidazole-4-acetaldehyde was converted to His, without isolation of the reaction products by adding HCN and ammonia to the reaction mixture. LC, HPLC, thermospray liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and tandem mass spectrometry were used to identify the product, which was obtained in a yield of 3.5% based on the ratio of His/erythrose. This is a new chemical synthesis of one of the basic amino acids which had not been synthesized prebiotically until now.

  17. Introduction of a covalent histidine-heme linkage in a hemoglobin: a promising tool for heme protein engineering.

    PubMed

    Rice, Selena L; Preimesberger, Matthew R; Johnson, Eric A; Lecomte, Juliette T J

    2014-12-01

    The hemoglobins of the cyanobacteria Synechococcus and Synechocystis (GlbNs) are capable of spontaneous and irreversible attachment of the b heme to the protein matrix. The reaction, which saturates the heme 2-vinyl by addition of a histidine residue, is reproduced in vitro by preparing the recombinant apoprotein, adding ferric heme, and reducing the iron to the ferrous state. Spontaneous covalent attachment of the heme is potentially useful for protein engineering purposes. Thus, to explore whether the histidine-heme linkage can serve in such applications, we attempted to introduce it in a test protein. We selected as our target the heme domain of Chlamydomonas eugametos LI637 (CtrHb), a eukaryotic globin that exhibits less than 50% sequence identity with the cyanobacterial GlbNs. We chose two positions, 75 in the FG corner and 111 in the H helix, to situate a histidine near a vinyl group. We characterized the proteins with gel electrophoresis, absorbance spectroscopy, and NMR analysis. Both T111H and L75H CtrHbs reacted upon reduction of the ferric starting material containing cyanide as the distal ligand to the iron. With L75H CtrHb, nearly complete (>90%) crosslinking was observed to the 4-vinyl as expected from the X-ray structure of wild-type CtrHb. Reaction of T111H CtrHb also occurred at the 4-vinyl, in a 60% yield indicating a preference for the flipped heme orientation in the starting material. The work suggests that the His-heme modification will be applicable to the design of proteins with a non-dissociable heme group. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Tryptophan and Cysteine Oxidation Products Dominate in α-Lactalbumin-Derived Peptides Analyzed with LC-MSn.

    PubMed

    Koivumäki, Tuuli P; Gürbüz, Göker; Heinonen, I Marina

    2017-09-01

    α-Lactalbumin (α-La), a major milk whey protein, is comprised of several amino acids prone to metal-catalyzed oxidation (MCO) typical in processing and during storage of foods. New tools are needed for the detection of characteristic oxidation products especially from tryptophan and cysteine that often remain unrecognized when using the traditional methods of carbonyl formation monitoring. In this study, the oxidative changes in α-La were investigated through tryptic digestion and collection of 3 descriptive peptides fitted into a metal-catalyzed oxidation (Fenton reaction) model. The peptide samples were oxidized at +37 °C for 14 d and explored with liquid chromatography-quadrupole ion trap-mass spectrometer (LC-MS n ). The fractionated α-La peptides were valyl-glycyl-isoleucyl-asparaginyl-tyrosyl-tryptophyl-leucyl-alanyl-histidyl-lysine (VGINYWLAHK), leucyl-aspartyl-glutaminyl-tryptophyl-leucyl-cysteinyl-glutamyl-lysine (LDQWLCEK), and tryptophyl +16 -leucyl-alanyl-histidyl-lysyl-alanyl-leucyl-cysteine (W +16 LAHKALC). Oxidation of several amino acids, such as cysteine, histidine, lysine, and tryptophan was observed. In the peptide LDQWLCEK, cysteine was rapidly trioxidized to sulfonic acid, followed by other amino acid side chains as secondary oxidation sites. Tryptophan oxidation was more pronounced in the peptides W +16 LAHKALC and VGINYWLAHK, and also formation of the harmful N-formylkynurenine was observed. As a conclusion, several stable and promising oxidation markers are proposed for α-La, which could be implemented in the evaluation of quality and safety of dairy protein-containing products. © 2017 Institute of Food Technologists®.

  19. Decreased Plasma Histidine Level Predicts Risk of Relapse in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis in Remission

    PubMed Central

    Hisamatsu, Tadakazu; Ono, Nobukazu; Imaizumi, Akira; Mori, Maiko; Suzuki, Hiroaki; Uo, Michihide; Hashimoto, Masaki; Naganuma, Makoto; Matsuoka, Katsuyoshi; Mizuno, Shinta; Kitazume, Mina T.; Yajima, Tomoharu; Ogata, Haruhiko; Iwao, Yasushi; Hibi, Toshifumi; Kanai, Takanori

    2015-01-01

    Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation. Patients with UC have repeated remission and relapse. Clinical biomarkers that can predict relapse in UC patients in remission have not been identified. To facilitate the prediction of relapse of UC, we investigated the potential of novel multivariate indexes using statistical modeling of plasma free amino acid (PFAA) concentrations. We measured fasting PFAA concentrations in 369 UC patients in clinical remission, and 355 were observed prospectively for up to 1 year. Relapse rate within 1 year was 23% (82 of 355 patients). The age- and gender-adjusted hazard ratio for the lowest quartile compared with the highest quartile of plasma histidine concentration was 2.55 (95% confidence interval: 1.41–4.62; p = 0.0020 (log-rank), p for trend = 0.0005). We demonstrated that plasma amino acid profiles in UC patients in clinical remission can predict the risk of relapse within 1 year. Decreased histidine level in PFAAs was associated with increased risk of relapse. Metabolomics could be promising for the establishment of a non-invasive predictive marker in inflammatory bowel disease. PMID:26474176

  20. Alanyl-tRNA synthetase mutation in a family with dominant distal hereditary motor neuropathy

    PubMed Central

    Zhao, Z.; Hashiguchi, A.; Sakiyama, Y.; Okamoto, Y.; Tokunaga, S.; Zhu, L.; Shen, H.; Takashima, H.

    2012-01-01

    Objective: To identify a new genetic cause of distal hereditary motor neuropathy (dHMN), which is also known as a variant of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), in a Chinese family. Methods: We investigated a Chinese family with dHMN clinically, electrophysiologically, and genetically. We screened for the mutations of 28 CMT or related pathogenic genes using an originally designed microarray resequencing DNA chip. Results: Investigation of the family history revealed an autosomal dominant transmission pattern. The clinical features of the family included mild weakness and wasting of the distal muscles of the lower limb and foot deformity, without clinical sensory involvement. Electrophysiologic studies revealed motor neuropathy. MRI of the lower limbs showed accentuated fatty infiltration of the gastrocnemius and vastus lateralis muscles. All 4 affected family members had a heterozygous missense mutation c.2677G>A (p.D893N) of alanyl-tRNA synthetase (AARS), which was not found in the 4 unaffected members and control subjects. Conclusion: An AARS mutation caused dHMN in a Chinese family. AARS mutations result in not only a CMT phenotype but also a dHMN phenotype. PMID:22573628

  1. Cloning, Expression, and Purification of Histidine-Tagged Escherichia coli Dihydrodipicolinate Reductase.

    PubMed

    Trigoso, Yvonne D; Evans, Russell C; Karsten, William E; Chooback, Lilian

    2016-01-01

    The enzyme dihydrodipicolinate reductase (DHDPR) is a component of the lysine biosynthetic pathway in bacteria and higher plants. DHDPR catalyzes the NAD(P)H dependent reduction of 2,3-dihydrodipicolinate to the cyclic imine L-2,3,4,5,-tetrahydropicolinic acid. The dapB gene that encodes dihydrodipicolinate reductase has previously been cloned, but the expression of the enzyme is low and the purification is time consuming. Therefore the E. coli dapB gene was cloned into the pET16b vector to improve the protein expression and simplify the purification. The dapB gene sequence was utilized to design forward and reverse oligonucleotide primers that were used to PCR the gene from Escherichia coli genomic DNA. The primers were designed with NdeI or BamHI restriction sites on the 5'and 3' terminus respectively. The PCR product was sequenced to confirm the identity of dapB. The gene was cloned into the expression vector pET16b through NdeI and BamHI restriction endonuclease sites. The resulting plasmid containing dapB was transformed into the bacterial strain BL21 (DE3). The transformed cells were utilized to grow and express the histidine-tagged reductase and the protein was purified using Ni-NTA affinity chromatography. SDS/PAGE gel analysis has shown that the protein was 95% pure and has approximate subunit molecular weight of 28 kDa. The protein purification is completed in one day and 3 liters of culture produced approximately 40-50 mgs of protein, an improvement on the previous protein expression and multistep purification.

  2. Mammalian histidine decarboxylase; changes in molecular properties induced by oxidation and reduction.

    PubMed

    Hammar, L; Hjertén, S

    1980-04-01

    Histidine decarboxylase from a murine mastocytoma has been submitted to different separation methods. In these experiments the activity peaks were often very broad. This heterogeneity of the enzyme is traced back to the formation of aggregates, differing in apparent molecular weight by a multiple of about 55,000, as a result of oxidation. Under non-oxidative conditions the histidine decarboxylase activity is confined to one peak in both molecular sieve chromatography, hydrophic interaction chromatography, chromatography on hydroxy apatite, pore gradient electrophoresis and electrofocusing. The molecular weight of the enzyme is estimated to be 110,000 by pore gradient electrophoresis (alkylated enzyme). The isoelectric point is pH 4.9--5.0, determined by electrofocusing under reducing conditions.

  3. Enzymatic production of L-alanyl-L-glutamine by recombinant E. coli expressing α-amino acid ester acyltransferase from Sphingobacterium siyangensis.

    PubMed

    Hirao, Yoshinori; Mihara, Yasuhiro; Kira, Ikuo; Abe, Isao; Yokozeki, Kenzo

    2013-01-01

    An enzymatic production method for synthesizing L-alanyl-L-glutamine (Ala-Gln) from L-alanine methyl ester hydrochloride (AlaOMe) and L-glutamine (Gln) was developed in this study. The cultivation conditions for an Escherichia coli strain overexpressing α-amino acid ester acyltransferase from Sphingobacterium siyangensis AJ 2458 (SAET) and reaction conditions for Ala-Gln production were optimized. A high cell density culture broth prepared by fed-batch cultivation showed 440 units/mL of Ala-Gln-producing activity. In addition, an Ala-Gln-producing reaction using intact E. coli cells overexpressing SAET under optimum conditions was conducted. A total Ala-Gln yield of 69.7 g/L was produced in 40 min. The molar yield was 67% against both AlaOMe and Gln.

  4. SalB inactivation modulates culture supernatant exoproteins and affects autolysis and viability in Enterococcus faecalis OG1RF.

    PubMed

    Shankar, Jayendra; Walker, Rachel G; Wilkinson, Mark C; Ward, Deborah; Horsburgh, Malcolm J

    2012-07-01

    The culture supernatant fraction of an Enterococcus faecalis gelE mutant of strain OG1RF contained elevated levels of the secreted antigen SalB. Using differential fluorescence gel electrophoresis (DIGE) the salB mutant was shown to possess a unique complement of exoproteins. Differentially abundant exoproteins were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry. Stress-related proteins including DnaK, Dps family protein, SOD, and NADH peroxidase were present in greater quantity in the OG1RF salB mutant culture supernatant. Moreover, several proteins involved in cell wall synthesis and cell division, including d-Ala-d-Lac ligase and EzrA, were present in reduced quantity in OG1RF salB relative to the parent strain. The salB mutant displayed reduced viability and anomalous cell division, and these phenotypes were exacerbated in a gelE salB double mutant. An epistatic relationship between gelE and salB was not identified with respect to increased autolysis and cell morphological changes observed in the salB mutant. SalB was purified as a six-histidine-tagged protein to investigate peptidoglycan hydrolytic activity; however, activity was not evident. High-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of reduced muropeptides from peptidoglycan digested with mutanolysin revealed that the salB mutant and OG1RF were indistinguishable.

  5. Proton affinity of the histidine-tryptophan cluster motif from the influenza A virus from ab initio molecular dynamics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bankura, Arindam; Klein, Michael L.; Carnevale, Vincenzo

    2013-08-01

    Ab initio molecular dynamics calculations have been used to compare and contrast the deprotonation reaction of a histidine residue in aqueous solution with the situation arising in a histidine-tryptophan cluster. The latter is used as a model of the proton storage unit present in the pore of the M2 proton conducting ion channel. We compute potentials of mean force for the dissociation of a proton from the Nδ and Nɛ positions of the imidazole group to estimate the pKas. Anticipating our results, we will see that the estimated pKa for the first protonation event of the M2 channel is in good agreement with experimental estimates. Surprisingly, despite the fact that the histidine is partially desolvated in the M2 channel, the affinity for protons is similar to that of a histidine in aqueous solution. Importantly, the electrostatic environment provided by the indoles is responsible for the stabilization of the charged imidazolium.

  6. Mercury(II) binds to both of chymotrypsin's histidines, causing inhibition followed by irreversible denaturation/aggregation.

    PubMed

    Stratton, Amanda; Ericksen, Matthew; Harris, Travis V; Symmonds, Nick; Silverstein, Todd P

    2017-02-01

    The toxicity of mercury is often attributed to its tight binding to cysteine thiolate anions in vital enzymes. To test our hypothesis that Hg(II) binding to histidine could be a significant factor in mercury's toxic effects, we studied the enzyme chymotrypsin, which lacks free cysteine thiols; we found that chymotrypsin is not only inhibited, but also denatured by Hg(II). We followed the aggregation of denatured enzyme by the increase in visible absorbance due to light scattering. Hg(II)-induced chymotrypsin precipitation increased dramatically above pH 6.5, and free imidazole inhibited this precipitation, implicating histidine-Hg(II) binding in the process of chymotrypsin denaturation/aggregation. Diethylpyrocarbonate (DEPC) blocked chymotrypsin's two histidines (his 40 and his 57 ) quickly and completely, with an IC 50 of 35 ± 6 µM. DEPC at 350 µM reduced the hydrolytic activity of chymotrypsin by 90%, suggesting that low concentrations of DEPC react with his 57 at the active site catalytic triad; furthermore, DEPC below 400 µM enhanced the Hg(II)-induced precipitation of chymotrypsin. We conclude that his 57 reacts readily with DEPC, causing enzyme inhibition and enhancement of Hg(II)-induced aggregation. Above 500 µM, DEPC inhibited Hg(II)-induced precipitation, and [DEPC] >2.5 mM completely protected chymotrypsin against precipitation. This suggests that his 40 reacts less readily with DEPC, and that chymotrypsin denaturation is caused by Hg(II) binding specifically to the his 40 residue. Finally, we show that Hg(II)-histidine binding may trigger hemoglobin aggregation as well. Because of results with these two enzymes, we suggest that metal-histidine binding may be key to understanding all heavy metal-induced protein aggregation. © 2017 The Protein Society.

  7. Cresyl Saligenin Phosphate, an Organophosphorus Toxicant, Makes Covalent Adducts with Histidine, Lysine and Tyrosine Residues of Human Serum Albumin

    PubMed Central

    Liyasova, Mariya S.; Schopfer, Lawrence M.; Lockridge, Oksana

    2012-01-01

    CBDP (2-(2-cresyl)-4H-1-3-2-benzodioxaphosphorin-2-oxide) is a toxic organophosphorus compound. It is generated in vivo from tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate (TOCP), a component of jet engine oil and hydraulic fluids. Exposure to TOCP was proven to occur on board aircraft by finding CBDP-derived phospho-butyrylcholinesterase in the blood of passengers. Adducts on BChE however do not explain the toxicity of CBDP. Critical target proteins of CBDP are yet to be identified. Our goal was to facilitate the search for the critical targets of CBDP by determining the range of amino acid residues capable of reacting with CBDP and characterizing the types of adducts formed. We used human albumin as a model protein. Mass spectral analysis of the tryptic digest of CBDP-treated human albumin revealed adducts on His-67, His-146, His-242, His-247, His-338, Tyr-138, Tyr-140, Lys-199, Lys-351, Lys-414, Lys-432, Lys-525. Adducts formed on tyrosine residues were different from those formed on histidines and lysines. Tyrosines were organophosphorylated by CBDP, while histidine and lysine residues were alkylated. This is the first report of an organophosphorus compound with both phosphorylating and alkylating properties. The hydroxybenzyl adduct on histidine is novel. The ability of CBDP to form stable adducts on histidine, tyrosine and lysine allows one to consider new mechanisms of toxicity from TOCP exposure. PMID:22793878

  8. Cresyl saligenin phosphate, an organophosphorus toxicant, makes covalent adducts with histidine, lysine, and tyrosine residues of human serum albumin.

    PubMed

    Liyasova, Mariya S; Schopfer, Lawrence M; Lockridge, Oksana

    2012-08-20

    CBDP [2-(2-cresyl)-4H-1-3-2-benzodioxaphosphorin-2-oxide] is a toxic organophosphorus compound. It is generated in vivo from tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate (TOCP), a component of jet engine oil and hydraulic fluids. Exposure to TOCP was proven to occur on board aircraft by finding CBDP-derived phospho-butyrylcholinesterase in the blood of passengers. Adducts on BChE, however, do not explain the toxicity of CBDP. Critical target proteins of CBDP are yet to be identified. Our goal was to facilitate the search for the critical targets of CBDP by determining the range of amino acid residues capable of reacting with CBDP and characterizing the types of adducts formed. We used human albumin as a model protein. Mass spectral analysis of the tryptic digest of CBDP-treated human albumin revealed adducts on His-67, His-146, His-242, His-247, His-338, Tyr-138, Tyr-140, Lys-199, Lys-351, Lys-414, Lys-432, and Lys-525. Adducts formed on tyrosine residues were different from those formed on histidines and lysines. Tyrosines were organophosphorylated by CBDP, while histidine and lysine residues were alkylated. This is the first report of an organophosphorus compound with both phosphorylating and alkylating properties. The o-hydroxybenzyl adduct on histidine is novel. The ability of CBDP to form stable adducts on histidine, tyrosine, and lysine allows one to consider new mechanisms of toxicity from TOCP exposure.

  9. Metabolism of. cap alpha. -C/sup 14/-histidine in the intact rat. II. Radioactive excretion products in urine

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

    Wolf, G.; Wu, P.H.L.; Heck, W.W.

    1956-09-01

    The normal metabolic pathways in the intact rat was investigated via the radioactive urinary excretion products following administration of a physiological dose of a radioactive compound such as ..cap alpha..-C/sup 14/-DL-histidine. The major metabolites, except one, excreted in the urine 5 hours after administration of ..cap alpha..-C/sup 14/-DL-histidine were isolated and identified. Glutamic acid and urocanic acids had simlar and low activities, whereas carboxyl-labeled imidazoacetic acid was found to be the principal metabolite with a high level of activity. It was concluded that the main end-product of the catabolism of DL-histidine is imidazoleacetic acid probably formed through imidazolepyruvic acid.

  10. Kinetic alteration of a human dihydrodiol/3alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase isoenzyme, AKR1C4, by replacement of histidine-216 with tyrosine or phenylalanine.

    PubMed Central

    Ohta, T; Ishikura, S; Shintani, S; Usami, N; Hara, A

    2000-01-01

    Human dihydrodiol dehydrogenase with 3alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity exists in four forms (AKR1C1-1C4) that belong to the aldo-keto reductase (AKR) family. Recent crystallographic studies on the other proteins in this family have indicated a role for a tyrosine residue (corresponding to position 216 in these isoenzymes) in stacking the nicotinamide ring of the coenzyme. This tyrosine residue is conserved in most AKR family members including AKR1C1-1C3, but is replaced with histidine in AKR1C4 and phenylalanine in some AKR members. In the present study we prepared mutant enzymes of AKR1C4 in which His-216 was replaced with tyrosine or phenylalanine. The two mutations decreased 3-fold the K(m) for NADP(+) and differently influenced the K(m) and k(cat) for substrates depending on their structures. The kinetic constants for bile acids with a 12alpha-hydroxy group were decreased 1.5-7-fold and those for the other substrates were increased 1.3-9-fold. The mutation also yielded different changes in sensitivity to competitive inhibitors such as hexoestrol analogues, 17beta-oestradiol, phenolphthalein and flufenamic acid and 3,5,3', 5'-tetraiodothyropropionic acid analogues. Furthermore, the mutation decreased the stimulatory effects of the enzyme activity by sulphobromophthalein, clofibric acid and thyroxine, which increased the K(m) for the coenzyme and substrate of the mutant enzymes more highly than those of the wild-type enzyme. These results indicate the importance of this histidine residue in creating the cavity of the substrate-binding site of AKR1C4 through the orientation of the nicotinamide ring of the coenzyme, as well as its involvement in the conformational change by binding non-essential activators. PMID:11104674

  11. A combinatorial histidine scanning library approach to engineer highly pH-dependent protein switches

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

    Murtaugh, Megan L.; Fanning, Sean W.; Sharma, Tressa M.

    2012-09-05

    There is growing interest in the development of protein switches, which are proteins whose function, such as binding a target molecule, can be modulated through environmental triggers. Efforts to engineer highly pH sensitive protein-protein interactions typically rely on the rational introduction of ionizable groups in the protein interface. Such experiments are typically time intensive and often sacrifice the protein's affinity at the permissive pH. The underlying thermodynamics of proton-linkage dictate that the presence of multiple ionizable groups, which undergo a pK{sub a} change on protein binding, are necessary to result in highly pH-dependent binding. To test this hypothesis, a novelmore » combinatorial histidine library was developed where every possible combination of histidine and wild-type residue is sampled throughout the interface of a model anti-RNase A single domain VHH antibody. Antibodies were coselected for high-affinity binding and pH-sensitivity using an in vitro, dual-function selection strategy. The resulting antibodies retained near wild-type affinity yet became highly sensitive to small decreases in pH, drastically decreasing their binding affinity, due to the incorporation of multiple histidine groups. Several trends were observed, such as histidine 'hot-spots,' which will help enhance the development of pH switch proteins as well as increase our understanding of the role of ionizable residues in protein interfaces. Overall, the combinatorial approach is rapid, general, and robust and should be capable of producing highly pH-sensitive protein affinity reagents for a number of different applications.« less

  12. Cloning, Expression, and Purification of Histidine-Tagged Escherichia coli Dihydrodipicolinate Reductase

    PubMed Central

    Trigoso, Yvonne D.; Evans, Russell C.; Karsten, William E.; Chooback, Lilian

    2016-01-01

    The enzyme dihydrodipicolinate reductase (DHDPR) is a component of the lysine biosynthetic pathway in bacteria and higher plants. DHDPR catalyzes the NAD(P)H dependent reduction of 2,3-dihydrodipicolinate to the cyclic imine L-2,3,4,5,-tetrahydropicolinic acid. The dapB gene that encodes dihydrodipicolinate reductase has previously been cloned, but the expression of the enzyme is low and the purification is time consuming. Therefore the E. coli dapB gene was cloned into the pET16b vector to improve the protein expression and simplify the purification. The dapB gene sequence was utilized to design forward and reverse oligonucleotide primers that were used to PCR the gene from Escherichia coli genomic DNA. The primers were designed with NdeI or BamHI restriction sites on the 5’and 3’ terminus respectively. The PCR product was sequenced to confirm the identity of dapB. The gene was cloned into the expression vector pET16b through NdeI and BamHI restriction endonuclease sites. The resulting plasmid containing dapB was transformed into the bacterial strain BL21 (DE3). The transformed cells were utilized to grow and express the histidine-tagged reductase and the protein was purified using Ni-NTA affinity chromatography. SDS/PAGE gel analysis has shown that the protein was 95% pure and has approximate subunit molecular weight of 28 kDa. The protein purification is completed in one day and 3 liters of culture produced approximately 40–50 mgs of protein, an improvement on the previous protein expression and multistep purification. PMID:26815040

  13. A histidine residue of the influenza virus hemagglutinin controls the pH dependence of the conformational change mediating membrane fusion.

    PubMed

    Mair, Caroline M; Meyer, Tim; Schneider, Katjana; Huang, Qiang; Veit, Michael; Herrmann, Andreas

    2014-11-01

    The conformational change of the influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) protein mediating the fusion between the virus envelope and the endosomal membrane was hypothesized to be induced by protonation of specific histidine residues since their pKas match the pHs of late endosomes (pK(a) of ∼ 6.0). However, such critical key histidine residues remain to be identified. We investigated the highly conserved His184 at the HA1-HA1 interface and His110 at the HA1-HA2 interface of highly pathogenic H5N1 HA as potential pH sensors. By replacing both histidines with different amino acids and analyzing the effect of these mutations on conformational change and fusion, we found that His184, but not His110, plays an essential role in the pH dependence of the conformational change of HA. Computational modeling of the protonated His184 revealed that His184 is central in a conserved interaction network possibly regulating the pH dependence of conformational change via its pKa. As the propensity of histidine to get protonated largely depends on its local environment, mutation of residues in the vicinity of histidine may affect its pK(a). The HA of highly pathogenic H5N1 viruses carries a Glu-to-Arg mutation at position 216 close to His184. By mutation of residue 216 in the highly pathogenic as well as the low pathogenic H5 HA, we observed a significant influence on the pH dependence of conformational change and fusion. These results are in support of a pK(a)-modulating effect of neighboring residues. The main pathogenic determinant of influenza viruses, the hemagglutinin (HA) protein, triggers a key step of the infection process: the fusion of the virus envelope with the endosomal membrane releasing the viral genome. Whereas essential aspects of the fusion-inducing mechanism of HA at low pH are well understood, the molecular trigger of the pH-dependent conformational change inducing fusion has been unclear. We provide evidence that His184 regulates the pH dependence of the HA

  14. Effect of phosphorylation on hydrogen-bonding interactions of the active site histidine of the phosphocarrier protein HPr of the phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent phosphotransferase system determined by sup 15 N NMR spectroscopy

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

    van Dijk, A.A.; de Lange, L.C.M.; Robillard, G.T.

    1990-09-04

    The phosphocarrier protein HPr of the phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent sugar transport system of Escherichia coli can exist in a phosphorylated and a nonphosphorylated form. During phosphorylation, the phosphoryl group is carried on a histidine residue, His15. The hydrogen-bonding state of this histidine was examined with {sup 15}N NMR. For this purpose we selectively enriched the histidine imidazole nitrogens with {sup 15}N by supplying an E. coli histidine auxotroph with the amino acid labeled either at the N{delta}1 and N{epsilon}2 positions or at only the N{delta}1 position. {sup 15}N NMR spectra of two synthesized model compound, phosphoimidazole and phosphomethylimidazole, were also recorded. Themore » authors show that, prior to phosphorylation, the protonated His15 N{epsilon}2 is strongly hydrogen bonded, most probably to a carboxylate moiety. The H-bond should strengthen the nucleophilic character of the deprotonated N{delta}1, resulting in a good acceptor for the phosphoryl group. The hydrogen bond to the His15 N{delta}1 breaks upon phosphorylation of the residue. Implications of the H-bond structure for the mechanism of phosphorylation of HPr are discussed.« less

  15. Endotoxin depletion of recombinant protein preparations through their preferential binding to histidine tags.

    PubMed

    Mack, Laura; Brill, Boris; Delis, Natalia; Groner, Bernd

    2014-12-01

    The presence of endotoxins in preparations of recombinantly produced therapeutic proteins poses serious problems for patients. Endotoxins can cause fever, respiratory distress syndromes, intravascular coagulation, or endotoxic shock. A number of methods have been devised to remove endotoxins from protein preparations using separation procedures based on molecular mass or charge properties. Most of the methods are limited in their endotoxin removal capacities and lack general applicability. We are describing a biotechnological approach for endotoxin removal. This strategy exploits the observation that endotoxins form micelles that expose negative charges on their surface, leading to preferential binding of endotoxins to cationic surfaces, allowing the separation from their resident protein. Endotoxins exhibit high affinity to stretches of histidines, which are widely used tools to facilitate the purification of recombinant proteins. They bind to nickel ions and are the basis for protein purification from cellular extracts by immobilized metal affinity chromatography. We show that the thrombin-mediated cleavage of two histidine tags from the purified recombinant protein and the adsorption of these histidine tags and their associated endotoxins to a nickel affinity column result in an appreciable depletion of the endotoxins in the purified protein fraction. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Exploring protein interiors: the role of a buried histidine in the KH module fold.

    PubMed

    Fraternali, F; Amodeo, P; Musco, G; Nilges, M; Pastore, A

    1999-03-01

    The K-homology (KH) module is a novel RNA-binding motif. The structures of a representative KH motif from vigilin (vig-KH6) and of the first KH domain of fmr1 have been recently solved by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and automated assignment-refinement techniques (ARIA). While a hydrophobic residue is found at position 21 in most of the KH modules, a buried His is conserved in all the 15 KH repeats of vigilin. This position must therefore have a key structural role in stabilizing the hydrophobic core. In the present work, we have addressed the following questions in order to obtain a detailed description of the role of His 21: i) what is the exact role of the histidine in the hydrophobic core of vig-KH6? ii) can we define the interactions that allow a conserved buried position to be occupied by a histidine both in vig-KH6 and in the whole vigilin KH sub-family? iii) how is the structure and stability of vig-KH6 influenced by the state of protonation of this histidine? To answer these questions, we have carried out an extensive refinement of the vig-KH6 structure using both an improved ARIA protocol starting from different initial structures and successively running restrained and unrestrained trajectories in water. An analysis of the stability of secondary structural elements, solvent accessibility, and hydrogen bonding patterns allows hypothesis on the structural role of residue His 21 and on the interactions that this residue forms with the environment. The importance of the protonation state of His 21 on the stability of the KH fold was addressed and validated by experimental results.

  17. Immobilized Metal Affinity Chromatography Co-Purifies TGF-β1 with Histidine-Tagged Recombinant Extracellular Proteins

    PubMed Central

    Kaur, Jasvir; Reinhardt, Dieter P.

    2012-01-01

    Extracellular recombinant proteins are commonly produced using HEK293 cells as histidine-tagged proteins facilitating purification by immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC). Based on gel analyses, this one-step purification typically produces proteins of high purity. Here, we analyzed the presence of TGF-β1 in such IMAC purifications using recombinant extracellular fibrillin-1 fragments as examples. Analysis of various purified recombinant fibrillin-1 fragments by ELISA consistently revealed the presence of picomolar concentrations of active and latent TGF-β1, but not of BMP-2. These quantities of TGF-β1 were not detectable by Western blotting and mass spectrometry. However, the amounts of TGF-β1 were sufficient to consistently trigger Smad2 phosphorylation in fibroblasts. The purification mechanism was analyzed to determine whether the presence of TGF-β1 in these protein preparations represents a specific or non-specific co-purification of TGF-β1 with fibrillin-1 fragments. Control purifications using conditioned medium from non-transfected 293 cells yielded similar amounts of TGF-β1 after IMAC. IMAC of purified TGF-β1 and the latency associated peptide showed that these proteins bound to the immobilized nickel ions. These data clearly demonstrate that TGF-β1 was co-purified by specific interactions with nickel, and not by specific interactions with fibrillin-1 fragments. Among various chromatographic methods tested for their ability to eliminate TGF-β1 from fibrillin-1 preparations, gel filtration under high salt conditions was highly effective. As various recombinant extracellular proteins purified in this fashion are frequently used for experiments that can be influenced by the presence of TGF-β1, these findings have far-reaching implications for the required chromatographic schemes and quality controls. PMID:23119075

  18. Structural and physiological studies of the Escherichia coli histidine operon inserted into plasmid vectors.

    PubMed Central

    Bruni, C B; Musti, A M; Frunzio, R; Blasi, F

    1980-01-01

    A fragment of deoxyribonucleic acid 5,300 base paris long and containing the promoter-proximal portion of the histidine operon of Escherichia coli K-12, has been cloned in plasmid pBR313 (plasmids pCB2 and pCB3). Restriction mapping, partial nucleotide sequencing, and studies on functional expression in vivo and on protein synthesis in minicells have shown that the fragment contains the regulatory region of the operon, the hisG, hisD genes, and part of the hisC gene. Another plasmid (pCB5) contained the hisG gene and part of the hisD gene. Expression of the hisG gene in the latter plasmid was under control of the tetracycline promoter of the pBR313 plasmid. The in vivo expression of the two groups of plasmids described above, as well as their effect on the expression of the histidine genes not carried by the plasmids but present on the host chromosome, has been studied. The presence of multiple copies of pCB2 or pCB3, but not of pCB5, prevented derepression of the chromosomal histidine operon. Possible interpretations of this phenomenon are discussed. Images PMID:6246067

  19. Insecticidal components from field pea extracts: sequences of some variants of pea albumin 1b.

    PubMed

    Taylor, Wesley G; Sutherland, Daniel H; Olson, Douglas J H; Ross, Andrew R S; Fields, Paul G

    2004-12-15

    Methanol soluble insecticidal peptides with masses of 3752, 3757, and 3805 Da, isolated from crude extracts (C8 extracts) derived from the protein-enriched flour of commercial field peas [Pisum sativum (L.)], were purified by reversed phase chromatography and, after reduction and alkylation, were sequenced by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) time-of-flight mass spectrometry with the aid of various peptidases. These major peptides were variants of pea albumin 1b (PA1b) with methionine sulfoxide rather than methionine at position 12. Peptide 3752 showed additional variations at positions 29 (valine for isoleucine) and 34 (histidine for asparagine). A minor, 37 amino acid peptide with a molecular mass of 3788 Da was also sequenced and differed from a known PA1b variant at positions 1, 25, and 31. Sequence variants of PA1b with their molecular masses were compiled, and variants that matched the accurate masses of the experimental peptides were used to narrow the search. MALDI postsource decay experiments on pronase fragments helped to confirm the sequences. Whole and dehulled field peas gave insecticidal C8 extracts in the laboratory that were enriched in peptides with masses of 3736, 3741, and 3789 Da, as determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. It was therefore concluded that oxidation of the methionine residues to methionine sulfoxide occurred primarily during the processing of dehulled peas in a mill.

  20. Quantum Chemical Mass Spectrometry: Verification and Extension of the Mobile Proton Model for Histidine

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cautereels, Julie; Blockhuys, Frank

    2017-06-01

    The quantum chemical mass spectrometry for materials science (QCMS2) method is used to verify the proposed mechanism for proton transfer - the Mobile Proton Model (MPM) - by histidine for ten XHS tripeptides, based on quantum chemical calculations at the DFT/B3LYP/6-311+G* level of theory. The fragmentations of the different intermediate structures in the MPM mechanism are studied within the QCMS2 framework, and the energetics of the proposed mechanism itself and those of the fragmentations of the intermediate structures are compared, leading to the computational confirmation of the MPM. In addition, the calculations suggest that the mechanism should be extended from considering only the formation of five-membered ring intermediates to include larger-ring intermediates. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

  1. Fungal histidine phosphotransferase plays a crucial role in photomorphogenesis and pathogenesis in Magnaporthe oryzae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mohanan, Varsha C.; Chandarana, Pinal M.; Chattoo, Bharat. B.; Patkar, Rajesh N.; Manjrekar, Johannes

    2017-05-01

    Two-component signal transduction (TCST) pathways play crucial roles in many cellular functions such as stress responses, biofilm formation and sporulation. The histidine phosphotransferase (HPt), which is an intermediate phosphotransfer protein in a two-component system, transfers a phosphate group to a phosphorylatable aspartate residue in the target protein(s), and up-regulates stress-activated MAP kinase cascades. Most fungal genomes carry a single copy of the gene coding for HPt, which are potential antifungal targets. However, unlike the histidine kinases (HK) or the downstream response regulators (RR) in two-component system, the HPts have not been well studied in phytopathogenic fungi. In this study, we investigated the role of HPt in the model rice-blast fungal pathogen Magnaporthe oryzae. We found that in M. oryzae an additional isoform of the HPT gene YPD1 was expressed specifically in response to light. Further, the expression of light-regulated genes such as those encoding envoy and blue-light-harvesting protein, and PAS domain containing HKs was significantly reduced upon down-regulation of YPD1 in M. oryzae. Importantly, down-regulation of YPD1 led to a significant decrease in the ability to penetrate the host cuticle and in light-dependent conidiation in M. oryzae. Thus, our results indicate that Ypd1 plays an important role in asexual development and host invasion, and suggest that YPD1 isoforms likely have distinct roles to play in the rice-blast pathogen M. oryzae.

  2. Novel Organotin(IV) Schiff Base Complexes with Histidine Derivatives: Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Activity

    PubMed Central

    Garza-Ortiz, Ariadna; Camacho-Camacho, Carlos; Sainz-Espuñes, Teresita; Rojas-Oviedo, Irma; Gutiérrez-Lucas, Luis Raúl; Gutierrez Carrillo, Atilano; Vera Ramirez, Marco A.

    2013-01-01

    Five novel tin Schiff base complexes with histidine analogues (derived from the condensation reaction between L-histidine and 3,5-di-tert-butyl-2-hydroxybenzaldehyde) have been synthesized and characterized. Characterization has been completed by IR and high-resolution mass spectroscopy, 1D and 2D solution NMR (1H, 13C  and 119Sn), as well as solid state 119Sn NMR. The spectroscopic evidence shows two types of structures: a trigonal bipyramidal stereochemistry with the tin atom coordinated to five donating atoms (two oxygen atoms, one nitrogen atom, and two carbon atoms belonging to the alkyl moieties), where one molecule of ligand is coordinated in a three dentate fashion. The second structure is spectroscopically described as a tetrahedral tin complex with four donating atoms (one oxygen atom coordinated to the metal and three carbon atoms belonging to the alkyl or aryl substituents), with one molecule of ligand attached. The antimicrobial activity of the tin compounds has been tested against the growth of bacteria in vitro to assess their bactericidal properties. While pentacoordinated compounds 1, 2, and 3 are described as moderate effective to noneffective drugs against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, tetracoordinated tin(IV) compounds 4 and 5 are considered as moderate effective and most effective compounds, respectively, against the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains (Gram-positive). PMID:23864839

  3. Ligand-Induced Asymmetry in Histidine Sensor Kinase Complex Regulates Quorum Sensing

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

    Neiditch,M.; Federle, M.; Pompeani, A.

    2006-01-01

    Bacteria sense their environment using receptors of the histidine sensor kinase family, but how kinase activity is regulated by ligand binding is not well understood. Autoinducer-2 (AI-2), a secreted signaling molecule originally identified in studies of the marine bacterium Vibrio harveyi, regulates quorum-sensing responses and allows communication between different bacterial species. AI-2 signal transduction in V. harveyi requires the integral membrane receptor LuxPQ, comprised of periplasmic binding protein (LuxP) and histidine sensor kinase (LuxQ) subunits. Combined X-ray crystallographic and functional studies show that AI-2 binding causes a major conformational change within LuxP, which in turn stabilizes a quaternary arrangement inmore » which two LuxPQ monomers are asymmetrically associated. We propose that formation of this asymmetric quaternary structure is responsible for repressing the kinase activity of both LuxQ subunits and triggering the transition of V. harveyi into quorum-sensing mode.« less

  4. Vitamin K2 (menaquinone) biosynthesis in Escherichia coli: evidence for the presence of an essential histidine residue in o-succinylbenzoyl coenzyme A synthetase.

    PubMed Central

    Bhattacharyya, D K; Kwon, O; Meganathan, R

    1997-01-01

    o-Succinylbenzoyl coenzyme A (OSB-CoA) synthetase, when treated with diethylpyrocarbonate (DEP), showed a time-dependent loss of enzyme activity. The inactivation follows pseudo-first-order kinetics with a second-order rate constant of 9.2 x 10(-4) +/- 1.4 x 10(-4) microM(-1) min(-1). The difference spectrum of the modified enzyme versus the native enzyme showed an increase in A242 that is characteristic of N-carbethoxyhistidine and was reversed by treatment with hydroxylamine. Inactivation due to nonspecific secondary structural changes in the protein and modification of tyrosine, lysine, or cysteine residues was ruled out. Kinetics of enzyme inactivation and the stoichiometry of histidine modification indicate that of the eight histidine residues modified per subunit of the enzyme, a single residue is responsible for the enzyme activity. A plot of the log reciprocal of the half-time of inactivation against the log DEP concentration further suggests that one histidine residue is involved in the catalysis. Further, the enzyme was partially protected from inactivation by either o-succinylbenzoic acid (OSB), ATP, or ATP plus Mg2+ while inactivation was completely prevented by the presence of the combination of OSB, ATP, and Mg2+. Thus, it appears that a histidine residue located at or near the active site of the enzyme is essential for activity. When His341 present in the previously identified ATP binding motif was mutated to Ala, the enzyme lost 65% of its activity and the Km for ATP increased 5.4-fold. Thus, His341 of OSB-CoA synthetase plays an important role in catalysis since it is probably involved in the binding of ATP to the enzyme. PMID:9324253

  5. The histidine kinase CpHK2 has impact on spore germination, oxidative stress and fungicide resistance, and virulence of the ergot fungus Claviceps purpurea.

    PubMed

    Nathues, Eva; Jörgens, Cordula; Lorenz, Nicole; Tudzynski, Paul

    2007-09-01

    SUMMARY Histidine kinases are important mediators for adaptation of bacteria and plants to environmental signals. Genome analyses of filamentous fungi have revealed the presence of a high number of potential hybrid histidine kinase (HK)-encoding genes; the role of most of these potential sensors is so far unclear, though some members of the class III histidine kinases were shown to be involved in osmostress responses. Here we present a functional analysis of cphk2, a histidine kinase-encoding gene in the biotrophic grass pathogen Claviceps purpurea. The putative product of cphk2 (CpHK2) was shown to group within family X of fungal HKs and it had high homology to the oxidative stress sensors SpMAK2/3 of Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Analysis of a cphk2 deletion mutant indicated that this histidine kinase is involved in spore germination, sensitivity to oxidative stress and fungicide resistance. In addition, virulence of the Dcphk2 mutant on rye was significantly reduced compared with the wild-type strain, even if the conidial titre was adjusted to the lower germination rate. This is the first report of a role for a class X histidine kinase in a filamentous fungus.

  6. HisB as novel selection marker for gene targeting approaches in Aspergillus niger.

    PubMed

    Fiedler, Markus R M; Gensheimer, Tarek; Kubisch, Christin; Meyer, Vera

    2017-03-08

    For Aspergillus niger, a broad set of auxotrophic and dominant resistance markers is available. However, only few offer targeted modification of a gene of interest into or at a genomic locus of choice, which hampers functional genomics studies. We thus aimed to extend the available set by generating a histidine auxotrophic strain with a characterized hisB locus for targeted gene integration and deletion in A. niger. A histidine-auxotrophic strain was established via disruption of the A. niger hisB gene by using the counterselectable pyrG marker. After curing, a hisB - , pyrG - strain was obtained, which served as recipient strain for further studies. We show here that both hisB orthologs from A. nidulans and A. niger can be used to reestablish histidine prototrophy in this recipient strain. Whereas the hisB gene from A. nidulans was suitable for efficient gene targeting at different loci in A. niger, the hisB gene from A. niger allowed efficient integration of a Tet-on driven luciferase reporter construct at the endogenous non-functional hisB locus. Subsequent analysis of the luciferase activity revealed that the hisB locus is tight under non-inducing conditions and allows even higher luciferase expression levels compared to the pyrG integration locus. Taken together, we provide here an alternative selection marker for A. niger, hisB, which allows efficient homologous integration rates as well as high expression levels which compare favorably to the well-established pyrG selection marker.

  7. Acidity of a Cu-bound histidine in the binuclear center of cytochrome C oxidase.

    PubMed

    Fadda, Elisa; Chakrabarti, Nilmadhab; Pomès, Régis

    2005-12-01

    Cytochrome c oxidase (CcO) is a crucial enzyme in the respiratory chain. Its function is to couple the reduction of molecular oxygen, which takes place in the Fea3-CuB binuclear center, to proton translocation across the mitochondrial membrane. Although several high-resolution structures of the enzyme are known, the molecular basis of proton pumping activation and its mechanism remain to be elucidated. We examine a recently proposed scheme (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2004, 126, 1858; FEBS Lett. 2004, 566, 126) that involves the deprotonation of the CuB-bound imidazole ring of a histidine (H291 in mammalian CcO) as a key element in the proton pumping mechanism. The central feature of that proposed mechanism is that the pKa values of the imidazole vary significantly depending on the redox state of the metals in the binuclear center. We use density functional theory in combination with continuum electrostatics to calculate the pKa values, successively in bulk water and within the protein, of the Cu-bound imidazole in various Cu- and Cu-Fe complexes. From pKas in bulk water, we derived a value of -266.34 kcal.mol(-1) for the proton solvation free energy (Delta). This estimate is in close agreement with the experimental value of -264.61 kcal.mol(-1) (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2001, 123, 7314), which reinforces the conclusion that Delta is more negative than previous values used for pKa calculations. Our approach, on the basis of the study of increasingly more detailed models of the CcO binuclear center at different stages of the catalysis, allows us to examine successively the effect of each of the two metals' redox states and of solvation on the acidity of imidazole, whose pKa is approximately 14 in bulk water. This analysis leads to the following conclusions: first, the effect of Cu ligation on the imidazole acidity is negligible regardless of the redox state of the metal. Second, results obtained for Cu-Fe complexes in bulk water indicate that Cu-bound imidazole pKa values lie within

  8. Meta-analysis of ADH1B and ALDH2 polymorphisms and esophageal cancer risk in China.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Guo-Hong; Mai, Rui-Qin; Huang, Bo

    2010-12-21

    To evaluate whether alcohol dehydrogenase-1B (ADH1B) His47Arg and aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 (ALDH2) Glu487Lys polymorphism is involved in the esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) risk in Chinese Han population. Seven studies of ADH1B and ALDH2 genotypes in Chinese Han population in 1450 cases and 2459 controls were included for meta-analysis. Stratified analyses were carried out to determine the gene-alcohol and gene-gene interaction with ESCC risk. Potential sources of heterogeneity between studies were explored, and publication bias was also evaluated. Individuals with ADH1B arginine (Arg)/Arg genotype showed 3.95-fold increased ESCC risk in the recessive genetic model [Arg/Arg vs Arg/histidine (His) + His/His: odds ratio (OR) = 3.95, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.76-5.67]. Significant association was found in the dominant model for ALDH2 lysine (Lys) allele [glutamate (Glu)/Lys + Lys/Lys vs Glu/Glu: OR = 2.00, 95% CI: 1.54-2.61]. Compared with the non-alcoholics, Arg/Arg (OR = 25.20, 95% CI: 10.87-53.44) and Glu/Lys + Lys/Lys (OR = 21.47, 95% CI: 6.44-71.59) were found to interact with alcohol drinking to increase the ESCC risk. ADH1B Arg+ and ALDH2 Lys+ had a higher risk for ESCC (OR = 7.09, 95% CI: 2.16-23.33). The genetic variations of ADH1B His47Arg and ALDH2 Glu487Lys are susceptible loci for ESCC in Chinese Han population and interact substantially with alcohol consumption. The individuals carrying both risky genotypes have a higher baseline risk of ESCC.

  9. Polyvalent Display of Heme on Hepatitis B Virus Capsid Protein through Coordination to Hexahistidine Tags

    PubMed Central

    Prasuhn, Duane E.; Kuzelka, Jane; Strable, Erica; Udit, Andrew K.; Cho, So-Hye; Lander, Gabriel C.; Quispe, Joel D.; Diers, James R.; Bocian, David F.; Potter, Clint; Carragher, Bridget; Finn, M.G.

    2009-01-01

    SUMMARY The addition of a hexahistidine tag to the N terminus of the hepatitis B capsid protein gives rise to a self-assembled particle with 80 sites of high local density of histidine side chains. Iron protoporphyrin IX has been found to bind tightly at each of these sites, making a polyvalent system of well-defined spacing between metalloporphyrin complexes. The spectroscopic and redox properties of the resulting particle are consistent with the presence of 80 site-isolated bis(histidine)-bound heme centers, comprising a polyvalent b-type cytochrome mimic. PMID:18482703

  10. Protonation states of histidine and other key residues in deoxy normal human adult hemoglobin by neutron protein crystallography

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

    Kovalevsky, Andrey, E-mail: ayk@lanl.gov; Chatake, Toshiyuki; Shibayama, Naoya

    2010-11-01

    Using neutron diffraction analysis, the protonation states of 35 of 38 histidine residues were determined for the deoxy form of normal human adult hemoglobin. Distal and buried histidines may contribute to the increased affinity of the deoxy state for hydrogen ions and its decreased affinity for oxygen compared with the oxygenated form. The protonation states of the histidine residues key to the function of deoxy (T-state) human hemoglobin have been investigated using neutron protein crystallography. These residues can reversibly bind protons, thereby regulating the oxygen affinity of hemoglobin. By examining the OMIT F{sub o} − F{sub c} and 2F{sub o}more » − F{sub c} neutron scattering maps, the protonation states of 35 of the 38 His residues were directly determined. The remaining three residues were found to be disordered. Surprisingly, seven pairs of His residues from equivalent α or β chains, αHis20, αHis50, αHis58, αHis89, βHis63, βHis143 and βHis146, have different protonation states. The protonation of distal His residues in the α{sub 1}β{sub 1} heterodimer and the protonation of αHis103 in both subunits demonstrates that these residues may participate in buffering hydrogen ions and may influence the oxygen binding. The observed protonation states of His residues are compared with their ΔpK{sub a} between the deoxy and oxy states. Examination of inter-subunit interfaces provided evidence for interactions that are essential for the stability of the deoxy tertiary structure.« less

  11. A Non-Invasive NMR Method Based on Histidine Imidazoles to Analyze the pH-Modulation of Protein-Nucleic Acid Interfaces.

    PubMed

    Cruz-Gallardo, Isabel; Del Conte, Rebecca; Velázquez-Campoy, Adrián; García-Mauriño, Sofía M; Díaz-Moreno, Irene

    2015-05-11

    A useful (2) J(N-H) coupling-based NMR spectroscopic approach is proposed to unveil, at the molecular level, the contribution of the imidazole groups of histidines from RNA/DNA-binding proteins on the modulation of binding to nucleic acids by pH. Such protonation/deprotonation events have been monitored on the single His96 located at the second RNA/DNA recognition motif (RRM2) of T-cell intracellular antigen-1 (TIA-1) protein. The pKa values of the His96 ionizable groups were substantially higher in the complexes with short U-rich RNA and T-rich DNA oligonucleotides than those of the isolated TIA-1 RRM2. Herein, the methodology applied to determine changes in pKa of histidine side chains upon DNA/RNA binding, gives valuable information to understand the pH effect on multidomain DNA/RNA-binding proteins that shuttle among different cellular compartments. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  12. The VPAC1 receptor: structure and function of a class B GPCR prototype

    PubMed Central

    Couvineau, A.; Ceraudo, E.; Tan, Y.-V.; Nicole, P.; Laburthe, M.

    2012-01-01

    The class B G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) represents a small sub-family encompassing 15 members, and are very promising targets for the development of drugs to treat many diseases such as chronic inflammation, neurodegeneration, diabetes, stress, and osteoporosis. The VPAC1 receptor which is an archetype of the class B GPCRs binds Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP), a neuropeptide widely distributed in central and peripheral nervous system modulating many physiological processes including regulation of exocrine secretions, hormone release, foetal development, immune response … VIP appears to exert beneficial effect in neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases. This article reviews the current knowledge regarding the structure and molecular pharmacology of VPAC1 receptors. Over the past decade, structure–function relationship studies have demonstrated that the N-terminal ectodomain (N-ted) of VPAC1 plays a pivotal role in VIP recognition. The use of different approaches such as directed mutagenesis, photoaffinity labeling, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), molecular modeling, and molecular dynamic simulation has led to demonstrate that: (1) the central and C-terminal part of the VIP molecule interacts with the N-ted of VPAC1 receptor which is itself structured as a « Sushi » domain; (2) the N-terminal end of the VIP molecule interacts with the first transmembrane domain of the receptor where three residues (K143, T144, and T147) play an important role in VPAC1 interaction with the first histidine residue of VIP. PMID:23162538

  13. Algicidal metabolites produced by Bacillus sp. strain B1 against Phaeocystis globosa.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Ling; Chen, Lina; Yin, Pinghe

    2014-03-01

    The bloom of Phaeocystis globosa has broken out frequently in the coastal areas of China in recent years, which has led to substantial economic losses. This study shows that Bacillus sp. strain B1, which was previously identified by our group, is effective in regulating P. globosa by excreting active metabolites. Heat stability, pH stability and molecular weight range of the algicidal compounds from strain B1 were measured and the results demonstrated that the algicidal activities of these compounds were not affected by pH or temperature variation. The algicidal compounds extracted with methanol were isolated and purified by ODS-A column chromatography and HPLC. The algicidal compounds corresponding to peaks 2-5 eluted from HPLC were further analysed by quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (Q-TOF-MS). PeakView™ Software determined the compounds corresponding to peaks 2-5 to be L-histidine, o-tyrosine, N-acetylhistamine and urocanic acid on the basis of the accurate mass information, the isotopic pattern and MS-MS spectra. Furthermore, these compounds were also able to eliminate Skeletonema costatum, Prorocentrum donghaiense and Heterosigma akashiwo. This is the first report of bacteria-derived algicidal compounds being identified only by Q-TOF-MS and PeakView™ Software, and these compounds may be used as the constituents of algicides in the future.

  14. Distal histidine conformational flexibility in dehaloperoxidase from Amphitrite ornata

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

    Chen, Zuxu; de Serrano, Vesna; Betts, Laurie

    2009-01-28

    The enzyme dehaloperoxidase (DHP) from the terebellid polychaete Amphitrite ornata is a heme protein which has a globin fold but can function as both a hemoglobin and a peroxidase. As a peroxidase, DHP is capable of converting 2,4,6-trihalophenols to the corresponding 2,6-dihaloquinones in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. As a hemoglobin, DHP cycles between the oxy and deoxy states as it reversibly binds oxygen for storage. Here, it is reported that the distal histidine, His55, exhibits conformational flexibility in the deoxy form and is consequently observed in two solvent-exposed conformations more than 9.5 {angstrom} away from the heme. These conformationsmore » are analogous to the open conformation of sperm whale myoglobin. The heme iron in deoxy ferrous DHP is five-coordinate and has an out-of-plane displacement of 0.25 {angstrom} from the heme plane. The observation of five-coordinate heme iron with His55 in a remote solvent-exposed conformation is consistent with the hypothesis that His55 interacts with heme iron ligands through hydrogen bonding in the closed conformation. Since His55 is also displaced by the binding of 4-iodophenol in an internal pocket, these results provide new insight into the correlation between heme iron ligation, molecular binding in the distal pocket and the conformation of the distal histidine in DHP.« less

  15. Binding of the human "electron transferring flavoprotein" (ETF) to the medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) involves an arginine and histidine residue.

    PubMed

    Parker, Antony R

    2003-10-01

    The interaction between the "electron transferring flavoprotein" (ETF) and medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) enables successful flavin to flavin electron transfer, crucial for the beta-oxidation of fatty acids. The exact biochemical determinants for ETF binding to MCAD are unknown. Here we show that binding of human ETF, to MCAD, was inhibited by 2,3-butanedione and diethylpyrocarbonate (DEPC) and reversed by incubation with free arginine and hydroxylamine respectively. Spectral analyses of native ETF vs modified ETF suggested that flavin binding was not affected and that the loss of ETF activity with MCAD involved modification of one ETF arginine residue and one ETF histidine residue respectively. MCAD and octanoyl-CoA protected ETF against inactivation by both 2,3-butanedione and DEPC indicating that the arginine and histidine residues are present in or around the MCAD binding site. Comparison of exposed arginine and histidine residues among different ETF species, however, indicates that arginine residues are highly conserved but that histidine residues are not. These results lead us to conclude that this single arginine residue is essential for the binding of ETF to MCAD, but that the single histidine residue, although involved, is not.

  16. The effects of copper-histidine therapy on brain metabolism in a patient with Menkes disease: a proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic study.

    PubMed

    Munakata, Mitsutoshi; Sakamoto, Osamu; Kitamura, Taro; Ishitobi, Mamiko; Yokoyama, Hiroyuki; Haginoya, Kazuhiro; Togashi, Noriko; Tamura, Hajime; Higano, Shuichi; Takahashi, Shoki; Ohura, Toshihiro; Kobayashi, Yasuko; Onuma, Akira; Iinuma, Kazuie

    2005-06-01

    We report on metabolic changes in the brain of a boy with Menkes disease. He was treated with parenteral copper (Cu)-histidine supplementation, from 5 months of age, and assessed with proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((1)H-MRS). The single-voxel (1)H-MRS before treatment revealed an accumulation of lactate and a reduced N-acetyl aspartate (NAA)/total creatine (tCr) ratio with a z-score of -3.0. During treatment, the lactate signal faded away, whereas the NAA signal gradually increased to a z-score of -1.5 at 120 days of treatment. The choline/tCr ratio did not deviate much initially (z-score +0.5), but the ratio increased markedly during treatment (z-score +4.8). Consequently, the Cu-histidine therapy initiated after the critical period still improved the neuronal metabolism, suggesting that some Cu was delivered to neurons. Nevertheless, the brain atrophy, impaired myelination, and severe neurological symptoms were not ameliorated.

  17. Changes in urinary amino acids excretion in relationship with muscle activity markers over a professional cycling stage race: in search of fatigue markers.

    PubMed

    Corsetti, Roberto; Barassi, Alessandra; Perego, Silvia; Sansoni, Veronica; Rossi, Alessandra; Damele, Clara Anna Linda; Melzi D'Eril, Gianlodovico; Banfi, Giuseppe; Lombardi, Giovanni

    2016-01-01

    The aim of this study was to identify the relationship between metabolic effort, muscular damage/activity indices, and urinary amino acids profile over the course of a strenuous prolonged endurance activity, as a cycling stage race is, in order to identify possible fatigue markers. Nine professional cyclists belonging to a single team, competing in the Giro d'Italia cycling stage race, were anthropometrically characterized and sampled for blood and urine the day before the race started, and on days 12 and 23 of the race. Diet was kept the same over the race, and power output and energy expenditure were recorded. Sera were assayed for muscle markers (lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, and creatine kinase activities, and blood urea nitrogen), and creatinine, all corrected for plasma volume changes. Urines were profiled for amino acid concentrations, normalized on creatinine excretion. Renal function, in terms of glomerular filtration rate, was monitored by MDRD equation corrected on body surface area. Creatine kinase activity and blood urea were increased during the race as did serum creatinine while kidney function remained stable. Among the amino acids, taurine, glycine, cysteine, leucine, carnosine, 1-methyl histidine, and 3-methyl histidine showed a net decreased, while homocysteine was increased. Taurine and the dipeptide carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) were significantly correlated with the muscle activity markers and the indices of effort. In conclusion, the metabolic profile is modified strikingly due to the effort. Urinary taurine and carnosine seem useful tools to evaluate the muscle damage and possibly the fatigue status on a long-term basis.

  18. Addition of Alanyl-Glutamine to Dialysis Fluid Restores Peritoneal Cellular Stress Responses – A First-In-Man Trial

    PubMed Central

    Boehm, Michael; Herzog, Rebecca; Gruber, Katharina; Lichtenauer, Anton Michael; Kuster, Lilian; Csaicsich, Dagmar; Gleiss, Andreas; Alper, Seth L.; Aufricht, Christoph; Vychytil, Andreas

    2016-01-01

    Background Peritonitis and ultrafiltration failure remain serious complications of chronic peritoneal dialysis (PD). Dysfunctional cellular stress responses aggravate peritoneal injury associated with PD fluid exposure, potentially due to peritoneal glutamine depletion. In this randomized cross-over phase I/II trial we investigated cytoprotective effects of alanyl-glutamine (AlaGln) addition to glucose-based PDF. Methods In a prospective randomized cross-over design, 20 stable PD outpatients underwent paired peritoneal equilibration tests 4 weeks apart, using conventional acidic, single chamber 3.86% glucose PD fluid, with and without 8 mM supplemental AlaGln. Heat-shock protein 72 expression was assessed in peritoneal effluent cells as surrogate parameter of cellular stress responses, complemented by metabolomics and functional immunocompetence assays. Results AlaGln restored peritoneal glutamine levels and increased the primary outcome heat-shock protein expression (effect 1.51-fold, CI 1.07–2.14; p = 0.022), without changes in peritoneal ultrafiltration, small solute transport, or biomarkers reflecting cell mass and inflammation. Further effects were glutamine-like metabolomic changes and increased ex-vivo LPS-stimulated cytokine release from healthy donor peripheral blood monocytes. In patients with a history of peritonitis (5 of 20), AlaGln supplementation decreased dialysate interleukin-8 levels. Supplemented PD fluid also attenuated inflammation and enhanced stimulated cytokine release in a mouse model of PD-associated peritonitis. Conclusion We conclude that AlaGln-supplemented, glucose-based PD fluid can restore peritoneal cellular stress responses with attenuation of sterile inflammation, and may improve peritoneal host-defense in the setting of PD. PMID:27768727

  19. Tobacco Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein Interacts with Ethylene Receptor Tobacco Histidine Kinase1 and Enhances Plant Growth through Promotion of Cell Proliferation1[OPEN

    PubMed Central

    Tao, Jian-Jun; Cao, Yang-Rong; Chen, Hao-Wei; Wei, Wei; Li, Qing-Tian; Ma, Biao; Zhang, Wan-Ke; Chen, Shou-Yi; Zhang, Jin-Song

    2015-01-01

    Ethylene is an important phytohormone in the regulation of plant growth, development, and stress response throughout the lifecycle. Previously, we discovered that a subfamily II ethylene receptor tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) Histidine Kinase1 (NTHK1) promotes seedling growth. Here, we identified an NTHK1-interacting protein translationally controlled tumor protein (NtTCTP) by the yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) two-hybrid assay and further characterized its roles in plant growth. The interaction was further confirmed by in vitro glutathione S-transferase pull down and in vivo coimmunoprecipitation and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays, and the kinase domain of NTHK1 mediates the interaction with NtTCTP. The NtTCTP protein is induced by ethylene treatment and colocalizes with NTHK1 at the endoplasmic reticulum. Overexpression of NtTCTP or NTHK1 reduces plant response to ethylene and promotes seedling growth, mainly through acceleration of cell proliferation. Genetic analysis suggests that NtTCTP is required for the function of NTHK1. Furthermore, association of NtTCTP prevents NTHK1 from proteasome-mediated protein degradation. Our data suggest that plant growth inhibition triggered by ethylene is regulated by a unique feedback mechanism, in which ethylene-induced NtTCTP associates with and stabilizes ethylene receptor NTHK1 to reduce plant response to ethylene and promote plant growth through acceleration of cell proliferation. PMID:25941315

  20. Histidine pKa shifts and changes of tautomeric states induced by the binding of gallium-protoporphyrin IX in the hemophore HasASM

    PubMed Central

    Wolff, Nicolas; Deniau, Clarisse; Létoffé, Sylvie; Simenel, Catherine; Kumar, Veena; Stojiljkovic, Igor; Wandersman, Cécile; Delepierre, Muriel; Lecroisey, Anne

    2002-01-01

    The HasASM hemophore, secreted by Serratia marcescens, binds free or hemoprotein bound heme with high affinity and delivers it to a specific outer membrane receptor, HasR. In HasASM, heme is held by two loops and coordinated to iron by two residues, His 32 and Tyr 75. A third residue His 83 was shown recently to play a crucial role in heme ligation. To address the mechanistic issues of the heme capture and release processes, the histidine protonation states were studied in both apo- and holo-forms of HasASM in solution. Holo-HasASM was formed with gallium-protoporphyrin IX (GaPPIX), giving rise to a diamagnetic protein. By use of heteronuclear correlation NMR spectroscopy, the imidazole side-chain 15N and 1H resonances of the six HasASM histidines were assigned and their pKa values and predominant tautomeric states according to pH were determined. We show that protonation states of the heme pocket histidines can modulate the nucleophilic character of the two axial ligands and, consequently, control the heme binding. In particular, the essential role of the His 83 is emphasized according to its direct interaction with Tyr 75. PMID:11910020

  1. Thiamin Pyrimidine Biosynthesis in Candida albicans: A Remarkable Reaction between Histidine and Pyridoxal Phosphate

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

    Lai, Rung-Yi; Huang, Siyu; Fenwick, Michael K.

    2012-06-26

    In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, thiamin pyrimidine is formed from histidine and pyridoxal phosphate (PLP). The origin of all of the pyrimidine atoms has been previously determined using labeling studies and suggests that the pyrimidine is formed using remarkable chemistry that is without chemical or biochemical precedent. Here we report the overexpression of the closely related Candida albicans pyrimidine synthase (THI5p) and the reconstitution and preliminary characterization of the enzymatic activity. A structure of the C. albicans THI5p shows PLP bound at the active site via an imine with Lys62 and His66 in close proximity to the PLP. Our data suggest thatmore » His66 of the THI5 protein is the histidine source for pyrimidine formation and that the pyrimidine synthase is a single-turnover enzyme.« less

  2. Role of the Putative Osmosensor Arabidopsis Histidine Kinase1 in Dehydration Avoidance and Low-Water-Potential Response1[W][OA

    PubMed Central

    Kumar, M. Nagaraj; Jane, Wann-Neng; Verslues, Paul E.

    2013-01-01

    The molecular basis of plant osmosensing remains unknown. Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) Histidine Kinase1 (AHK1) can complement the osmosensitivity of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) osmosensor mutants lacking Synthetic Lethal of N-end rule1 and SH3-containing Osmosensor and has been proposed to act as a plant osmosensor. We found that ahk1 mutants in either the Arabidopsis Nossen-0 or Columbia-0 background had increased stomatal density and stomatal index consistent with greater transpirational water loss. However, the growth of ahk1 mutants was not more sensitive to controlled moderate low water potential (ψw) or to salt stress. Also, ahk1 mutants had increased, rather than reduced, solute accumulation across a range of low ψw severities. ahk1 mutants had reduced low ψw induction of Δ1-Pyrroline-5-Carboxylate Synthetase1 (P5CS1) and 9-cis-Epoxycarotenoid Dioxygenase3, which encode rate-limiting enzymes in proline and abscisic acid (ABA) synthesis, respectively. However, neither Pro nor ABA accumulation was reduced in ahk1 mutants at low ψw. P5CS1 protein level was not reduced in ahk1 mutants. This indicated that proline accumulation was regulated in part by posttranscriptional control of P5CS1 that was not affected by AHK1. Expression of AHK1 itself was reduced by low ψw, in contrast to previous reports. These results define a role of AHK1 in controlling stomatal density and the transcription of stress-responsive genes. These phenotypes may be mediated in part by reduced ABA sensitivity. More rapid transpiration and water depletion can also explain the previously reported sensitivity of ahk1 to uncontrolled soil drying. The unimpaired growth, ABA, proline, and solute accumulation of ahk1 mutants at low ψw suggest that AHK1 may not be the main plant osmosensor required for low ψw tolerance. PMID:23184230

  3. Alanyl-glutamine and glutamine plus alanine supplements improve skeletal redox status in trained rats: involvement of heat shock protein pathways.

    PubMed

    Petry, Eder Ricardo; Cruzat, Vinicius Fernandes; Heck, Thiago Gomes; Leite, Jaqueline Santos Moreira; Homem de Bittencourt, Paulo Ivo; Tirapegui, Julio

    2014-01-17

    We hypothesized that oral l-glutamine supplementations could attenuate muscle damage and oxidative stress, mediated by glutathione (GSH) in high-intensity aerobic exercise by increasing the 70-kDa heat shock proteins (HSP70) and heat shock factor 1 (HSF1). Adult male Wistar rats were 8-week trained (60-min/day, 5 days/week) on a treadmill. During the last 21 days, the animals were supplemented with either l-alanyl-l-glutamine dipeptide (1.5 g/kg, DIP) or a solution containing the amino acids l-glutamine (1g/kg) and l-alanine (0.67 g/kg) in their free form (GLN+ALA) or water (controls). Plasma from both DIP- and GLN+ALA-treated animals showed higher l-glutamine concentrations and reduced ammonium, malondialdehyde, myoglobin and creatine kinase activity. In the soleus and gastrocnemius muscle of both supplemented groups, l-glutamine and GSH contents were increased and GSH disulfide (GSSG) to GSH ratio was attenuated (p<0.001). In the soleus muscle, cytosolic and nuclear HSP70 and HSF1 were increased by DIP supplementation. GLN+ALA group exhibited higher HSP70 (only in the nucleus) and HSF1 (cytosol and nucleus). In the gastrocnemius muscle, both supplementations were able to increase cytosolic HSP70 and cytosolic and nuclear HSF1. In trained rats, oral supplementation with DIP or GLN+ALA solution increased the expression of muscle HSP70, favored muscle l-glutamine/GSH status and improved redox defenses, which attenuate markers of muscle damage, thus improving the beneficial effects of high-intensity exercise training. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Improved Acid Stress Survival of Lactococcus lactis Expressing the Histidine Decarboxylation Pathway of Streptococcus thermophilus CHCC1524*

    PubMed Central

    Trip, Hein; Mulder, Niels L.; Lolkema, Juke S.

    2012-01-01

    Degradative amino acid decarboxylation pathways in bacteria generate secondary metabolic energy and provide resistance against acid stress. The histidine decarboxylation pathway of Streptococcus thermophilus CHCC1524 was functionally expressed in the heterologous host Lactococcus lactis NZ9000, and the benefits of the newly acquired pathway for the host were analyzed. During growth in M17 medium in the pH range of 5–6.5, a small positive effect was observed on the biomass yield in batch culture, whereas no growth rate enhancement was evident. In contrast, a strong benefit for the engineered L. lactis strain was observed in acid stress survival. In the presence of histidine, the pathway enabled cells to survive at pH values as low as 3 for at least 2 h, conditions under which the host cells were rapidly dying. The flux through the histidine decarboxylation pathway in cells grown at physiological pH was under strict control of the electrochemical proton gradient (pmf) across the membrane. Ionophores that dissipated the membrane potential (ΔΨ) and/or the pH gradient (ΔpH) strongly increased the flux, whereas the presence of glucose almost completely inhibited the flux. Control of the pmf over the flux was exerted by both ΔΨ and ΔpH and was distributed over the transporter HdcP and the decarboxylase HdcA. The control allowed for a synergistic effect between the histidine decarboxylation and glycolytic pathways in acid stress survival. In a narrow pH range around 2.5 the synergism resulted in a 10-fold higher survival rate. PMID:22351775

  5. A periplasmic D-alanyl-D-alanine dipeptidase in the gram-negative bacterium Salmonella enterica.

    PubMed

    Hilbert, F; García-del Portillo, F; Groisman, E A

    1999-04-01

    The VanX protein is a D-alanyl-D-alanine (D-Ala-D-Ala) dipeptidase essential for resistance to the glycopeptide antibiotic vancomycin. While this enzymatic activity has been typically associated with vancomycin- and teicoplainin-resistant enterococci, we now report the identification of a D-Ala-D-Ala dipeptidase in the gram-negative species Salmonella enterica. The Salmonella enzyme is only 36% identical to VanX but exhibits a similar substrate specificity: it hydrolyzes D-Ala-D-Ala, DL-Ala-DL-Phe, and D-Ala-Gly but not the tripeptides D-Ala-D-Ala-D-Ala and DL-Ala-DL-Lys-Gly or the dipeptides L-Ala-L-Ala, N-acetyl-D-Ala-D-Ala, and L-Leu-Pro. The Salmonella dipeptidase gene, designated pcgL, appears to have been acquired by horizontal gene transfer because pcgL-hybridizing sequences were not detected in related bacterial species and the G+C content of the pcgL-containing region (41%) is much lower than the overall G+C content of the Salmonella chromosome (52%). In contrast to wild-type Salmonella, a pcgL mutant was unable to use D-Ala-D-Ala as a sole carbon source. The pcgL gene conferred D-Ala-D-Ala dipeptidase activity upon Escherichia coli K-12 but did not allow growth on D-Ala-D-Ala. The PcgL protein localizes to the periplasmic space of Salmonella, suggesting that this dipeptidase participates in peptidoglycan metabolism.

  6. Combined EXAFS and DFT Structure Calculations Provide Structural Insights into the 1:1 Multi-Histidine Complexes of CuII, CuI and ZnII with the Tandem Octarepeats of the Mammalian Prion Protein

    PubMed Central

    Pushie, M. Jake; Nienaber, Kurt H.; McDonald, Alex; Millhauser, Glenn L.; George, Graham N.

    2014-01-01

    The metal coordinating properties of the prion protein (PrP) have been the subject of intense focus and debate since the first reports of copper interaction with PrP just before the turn of the century. The picture of metal coordination to PrP has been improved and refined over the past decade, and yet the structural details of the various metal coordination modes have not been fully elucidated in some cases. Herein we employ X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy as well as extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy to structurally characterize the dominant 1:1 coordination modes for CuII, CuI and ZnII with an N-terminal fragment of PrP. The PrP fragment constitutes four tandem repeats representative of the mammalian octarepeat domain, designated OR4, which is also the most studied PrP fragment for metal interactions, making our findings applicable to a large body of previous work. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations provide additional structural and thermodynamic data, and candidate structures are used to inform EXAFS data analysis. The optimized geometries from DFT calculations are used to identify potential coordination complexes for multi-histidine coordination of CuII, CuI and ZnII in an aqueous medium, modeled using 4-methylimidazole to represent the histidine side chain. Through a combination of in silico coordination chemistry as well as rigorous EXAFS curve fitting, using full multiple scattering on candidate structures from DFT calculations, we have characterized the predominant coordination modes for the 1:1 complexes of CuII, CuI and ZnII with the OR4 peptide at pH 7.4 at atomic resolution, which are best represented as a square planar [CuII(His)4]2+, digonal [CuI(His)2]+ and tetrahedral [ZnII(His)3(OH2)]2+, respectively. PMID:25042361

  7. Structural basis of a histidine-DNA nicking/joining mechanism for gene transfer and promiscuous spread of antibiotic resistance

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

    Pluta, Radoslaw; Boer, D. Roeland; Lorenzo-Diaz, Fabian

    Relaxases are metal-dependent nucleases that break and join DNA for the initiation and completion of conjugative bacterial gene transfer. Conjugation is the main process through which antibiotic resistance spreads among bacteria, with multidrug-resistant staphylococci and streptococci infections posing major threats to human health. The MOB V family of relaxases accounts for approximately 85% of all relaxases found in Staphylococcus aureus isolates. Here, we present six structures of the MOB V relaxase MobM from the promiscuous plasmid pMV158 in complex with several origin of transfer DNA fragments. A combined structural, biochemical, and computational approach reveals that MobM follows a previously uncharacterizedmore » histidine/metal-dependent DNA processing mechanism, which involves the formation of a covalent phosphoramidate histidine-DNA adduct for cell-to-cell transfer. In conclusion, we discuss how the chemical features of the high-energy phosphorus-nitrogen bond shape the dominant position of MOB V histidine relaxases among small promiscuous plasmids and their preference toward Gram-positive bacteria.« less

  8. Structural basis of a histidine-DNA nicking/joining mechanism for gene transfer and promiscuous spread of antibiotic resistance

    DOE PAGES

    Pluta, Radoslaw; Boer, D. Roeland; Lorenzo-Diaz, Fabian; ...

    2017-07-24

    Relaxases are metal-dependent nucleases that break and join DNA for the initiation and completion of conjugative bacterial gene transfer. Conjugation is the main process through which antibiotic resistance spreads among bacteria, with multidrug-resistant staphylococci and streptococci infections posing major threats to human health. The MOB V family of relaxases accounts for approximately 85% of all relaxases found in Staphylococcus aureus isolates. Here, we present six structures of the MOB V relaxase MobM from the promiscuous plasmid pMV158 in complex with several origin of transfer DNA fragments. A combined structural, biochemical, and computational approach reveals that MobM follows a previously uncharacterizedmore » histidine/metal-dependent DNA processing mechanism, which involves the formation of a covalent phosphoramidate histidine-DNA adduct for cell-to-cell transfer. In conclusion, we discuss how the chemical features of the high-energy phosphorus-nitrogen bond shape the dominant position of MOB V histidine relaxases among small promiscuous plasmids and their preference toward Gram-positive bacteria.« less

  9. Regulatory Mutants at the his1 Locus of Yeast

    PubMed Central

    Lax, Carol; Fogel, Seymour; Cramer, Carole

    1979-01-01

    The his1 gene in Saccharomyces cerevisiae codes for phosphoribosyl transferase, an allosteric enzyme that catalyzes the initial step in histidine biosynthesis. Mutants that specifically alter the feedback regulatory function were isolated by selecting his1 prototrophic revertants that overproduce and excrete histidine. The prototrophs were obtained from diploids homoallelic for his1–7 and heterozygous for the flanking markers thr3 and arg6. Among six independently derived mutant isolates, three distinct levels of histidine excretion were detected. The mutants were shown to be second-site alterations mapping at the his1 locus by recovery of the original auoxtrophic parental alleles. The double mutants, HIS1–7e, are dominant with respect to catalytic function but recessive in regulatory function. When removed from this his1–7 background, the mutant regulatory site (HIS1–e) still confers prototrophy but not histidine excretion. To yield the excretion phenotype, the primary and altered secondary sites are required in cis array. Differences in histidine excretion levels correlate with resistance to the histidine analogue, triazoalanine. PMID:385447

  10. Non-hydrolyzed in digestive tract and blood natural L-carnosine peptide ("bioactivated Jewish penicillin") as a panacea of tomorrow for various flu ailments: signaling activity attenuating nitric oxide (NO) production, cytostasis, and NO-dependent inhibition of influenza virus replication in macrophages in the human body infected with the virulent swine influenza A (H1N1) virus.

    PubMed

    Babizhayev, Mark A; Deyev, Anatoliy I; Yegorov, Yegor E

    2013-01-01

    in excessive amounts mediate the overreaction of the host's immune response against the organs or tissues in which viruses are replicating, and this may explain the mechanism of tissue injuries observed in influenza virus infection of various types. In this article, the types of protection of carnosine in its bioavailable non-hydrolyzed forms in formulations are considered against reactive oxygen radical species-dependent injury, peroxynitrite damage, and other types of viral injuries in which impaired immune responses to viral pathogens are usually involved. Carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) shows the pharmacological intracellular correction of NO release, which might be one of the important factors of natural immunity in controlling the initial stages of influenza A virus infection (inhibition of virus replication) and virus-induced regulation of cytokine gene expression. The protective effects of orally applied non-hydrolyzed formulated species of carnosine include at least the direct interaction with NO, inhibition of cytotoxic NO-induced proinflammatory condition, and attenuation of the effects of cytokines and chemokines that can exert profound effects on inflammatory cells. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that natural products, such as chicken soup and chicken breast extracts rich in carnosine and its derivative anserine (β-alanyl-1-methyl-L-histidine), could contribute to the pathogenesis and prevention of influenza virus infections and cold but have a limitation due to the susceptibility to enzymatic hydrolysis of dipeptides with serum carnosinase and urine excretion after oral ingestion of a commercial chicken extract. The formulations of non-hydrolyzed in digestive tract and blood natural carnosine peptide and isopeptide (γ-glutamyl-carnosine) products, manufactured at the cGMP-certified facility and patented by the authors, have promise in the control and prevention of influenza A (H1N1) virus infection, cough, and cold.

  11. Exome Sequencing Identifies Mitochondrial Alanyl-tRNA Synthetase Mutations in Infantile Mitochondrial Cardiomyopathy

    PubMed Central

    Götz, Alexandra; Tyynismaa, Henna; Euro, Liliya; Ellonen, Pekka; Hyötyläinen, Tuulia; Ojala, Tiina; Hämäläinen, Riikka H.; Tommiska, Johanna; Raivio, Taneli; Oresic, Matej; Karikoski, Riitta; Tammela, Outi; Simola, Kalle O.J.; Paetau, Anders; Tyni, Tiina; Suomalainen, Anu

    2011-01-01

    Infantile cardiomyopathies are devastating fatal disorders of the neonatal period or the first year of life. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a common cause of this group of diseases, but the underlying gene defects have been characterized in only a minority of cases, because tissue specificity of the manifestation hampers functional cloning and the heterogeneity of causative factors hinders collection of informative family materials. We sequenced the exome of a patient who died at the age of 10 months of hypertrophic mitochondrial cardiomyopathy with combined cardiac respiratory chain complex I and IV deficiency. Rigorous data analysis allowed us to identify a homozygous missense mutation in AARS2, which we showed to encode the mitochondrial alanyl-tRNA synthetase (mtAlaRS). Two siblings from another family, both of whom died perinatally of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, had the same mutation, compound heterozygous with another missense mutation. Protein structure modeling of mtAlaRS suggested that one of the mutations affected a unique tRNA recognition site in the editing domain, leading to incorrect tRNA aminoacylation, whereas the second mutation severely disturbed the catalytic function, preventing tRNA aminoacylation. We show here that mutations in AARS2 cause perinatal or infantile cardiomyopathy with near-total combined mitochondrial respiratory chain deficiency in the heart. Our results indicate that exome sequencing is a powerful tool for identifying mutations in single patients and allows recognition of the genetic background in single-gene disorders of variable clinical manifestation and tissue-specific disease. Furthermore, we show that mitochondrial disorders extend to prenatal life and are an important cause of early infantile cardiac failure. PMID:21549344

  12. The ArcB Leucine Zipper Domain Is Required for Proper ArcB Signaling

    PubMed Central

    Nuñez Oreza, Luis Alberto; Alvarez, Adrián F.; Arias-Olguín, Imilla I.; Torres Larios, Alfredo; Georgellis, Dimitris

    2012-01-01

    The Arc two-component system modulates the expression of numerous genes in response to respiratory growth conditions. This system comprises ArcA as the response regulator and ArcB as the sensor kinase. ArcB is a tripartite histidine kinase whose activity is regulated by the oxidation of two cytosol-located redox-active cysteine residues that participate in intermolecular disulfide bond formation. Here, we report that the ArcB protein segment covering residues 70–121, fulfills the molecular characteristics of a leucine zipper containing coiled coil structure. Also, mutational analyses of this segment reveal three different phenotypical effects to be distributed along the coiled coil structure of ArcB, demonstrating that this motif is essential for proper ArcB signaling. PMID:22666479

  13. Regulation of skeletal muscle protein synthetic and degradative signaling by alanyl-glutamine in piglets challenged with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Bolin; Yu, Changning; Lin, Meng; Fu, Ya'nan; Zhang, Lin; Meng, Meijuan; Xing, Shen; Li, Jiaolong; Sun, Hui; Gao, Feng; Zhou, Guanghong

    2015-05-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of alanyl-glutamine (Ala-Gln) on skeletal muscle protein synthetic and degradative signaling in piglets challenged with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Piglets were arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial design and the main effects were LPS challenge (0 or 100 units) and diets (0.62% Ala or 0.5% Ala-Gln). After treatment with either Ala or Ala-Gln for 10 d, piglets were injected twice with either saline or LPS on days 11 and 15. During days 11 to 15 (postchallenge), LPS challenge affected the growth performance of piglets. Ala-Gln supplementation tended to alleviate the reduction of the average daily weight gain (P = 0.071) and the average daily feed intake (P = 0.087) of the LPS-challenged piglets. LPS challenge increased the concentrations of cytokines in plasma (P < 0.05), however, Ala-Gln supplementation prevented the elevation of cortisol induced by LPS challenge (P < 0.05). Moreover, Ala-Gln supplementation increased the mRNA expressions of insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling and Akt (P < 0.05). Ala-Gln supplementation also increased the phosphorylation abundance of the mammalian target of rapamycin, eIF-4 E binding protein 1 and ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 (P < 0.05). Additionally, Ala-Gln supplementation down-regulated the mRNA abundances of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), muscle atrophy F-box, and muscle RING finger 1, which are associated with protein degradation induced by LPS challenge. Ala-Gln supplementation had beneficial effects in improving protein synthesis signaling of skeletal muscle, and reversed the deleterious changes of signaling molecules in muscle atrophy mainly through down-regulation of Akt/FOXO and TLR4 signaling pathways induced by LPS challenge. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Pinocembrin, a novel histidine decarboxylase inhibitor with anti-allergic potential in in vitro.

    PubMed

    Hanieh, Hamza; Hairul Islam, Villianur Ibrahim; Saravanan, Subramanian; Chellappandian, Muthiah; Ragul, Kessavane; Durga, Arumugam; Venugopal, Kaliyamoorthy; Senthilkumar, Venugopal; Senthilkumar, Palanisamy; Thirugnanasambantham, Krishnaraj

    2017-11-05

    Pinocembrin (5, 7- dihydroxy flavanone) is the most abundant chiral flavonoid found in propolis, exhibiting antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the effect of Pinocembrin on allergic response is unexplored. Thus, current study aimed at investigating the effects of Pinocembrin on IgE-mediated allergic response in vitro. A special emphasis was directed toward histidine decarboxylase (HDC) and other pro-allergic and pro-inflammatory mediators. Preliminary studies, using a microbiological model of Klebsiella pneumoniae, provided first evidences that suggest Pinocembrin as a potential thermal stable inhibitor for HDC. Applying docking analysis revealed possible interaction between Pinocembrin and mammalian HDC. In vitro studies validated the predicted interaction and showed that Pinocembrin inhibits HDC activity and histamine in IgE-sensitized RBL-2H3 in response to dinitrophenol (DNP)-bovine serum albumin (BSA) stimulation. In addition, Pinocembrin mitigated the damage in the mitochondrial membrane, formation of cytoplasmic granules and degranulation as indicated by lower β-hexoseaminidase level. Interestingly, it reduced range of pro-inflammatory mediators in the IgE-mediated allergic response including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, nitric oxide (NO), inducible NO synthase (iNOS), phosphorylation of inhibitory kappa B (IкB)-α, prostaglandin (PGE)-2 and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2. In conclusion, current study suggests Pinocembrin as a potential HDC inhibitor, and provides the first evidences it is in vitro anti-allergic properties, suggesting Pinocembrin as a new candidate for natural anti-allergic drugs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Expression and GTP sensitivity of peptide histidine isoleucine high-affinity-binding sites in rat.

    PubMed

    Debaigt, Colin; Meunier, Annie-Claire; Goursaud, Stephanie; Montoni, Alicia; Pineau, Nicolas; Couvineau, Alain; Laburthe, Marc; Muller, Jean-Marc; Janet, Thierry

    2006-07-01

    High-affinity-binding sites for the vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) analogs peptide histidine/isoleucine-amide (PHI)/carboxyterminal methionine instead of isoleucine (PHM) are expressed in numerous tissues in the body but the nature of their receptors remains to be elucidated. The data presented indicate that PHI discriminated a high-affinity guanosine 5'-triphosphate (GTP)-insensitive-binding subtype that represented the totality of the PHI-binding sites in newborn rat tissues but was differentially expressed in adult animals. The GTP-insensitive PHI/PHM-binding sites were also observed in CHO cells over expressing the VPAC2 but not the VPAC1 VIP receptor.

  16. [Raman spectra of complexes of rare earth nitrate with histidine].

    PubMed

    Gao, S; Ji, M; Liu, J; Hou, Y; Chen, S

    1999-12-01

    Raman spectra of solid complexes RE(His)(NO3)3 x H2O (RE = La-Nd, Sm-Lu, Y; His = L-alpha-histidine ) have been investigated. The results indicate that RE3+ coordinates with one O atome of carboxyl group in the complex, while amino group and imidazole ring do not take part in coordination and NO3 is double coordination. The vibration peaks of carboxyl group delta(v)COO-(as-s) were plotted against the atomic number of the lanthanoids, which obeys Oddo-Harkins law.

  17. Substrate uptake and protein stability relationship in mammalian histidine decarboxylase.

    PubMed

    Pino-Angeles, A; Morreale, A; Negri, A; Sánchez-Jiménez, F; Moya-García, A A

    2010-01-01

    There is some evidence linking the substrate entrance in the active site of mammalian histidine decarboxylase and an increased stability against proteolytic degradation. In this work, we study the basis of this relationship by means of protein structure network analysis and molecular dynamics simulations. We find that the substrate binding to the active site influences the conformation of a flexible region sensible to proteolytic degradation and observe how formation of the Michaelis-Menten complex increases stability in the conformation of this region. (c) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  18. C-terminally truncated form of αB-crystallin is associated with IDH1 R132H mutation in anaplastic astrocytoma.

    PubMed

    Avliyakulov, Nuraly K; Rajavel, Kavitha S; Le, Khanh Minh T; Guo, Lea; Mirsadraei, Leili; Yong, William H; Liau, Linda M; Li, Sichen; Lai, Albert; Nghiemphu, Phioanh L; Cloughesy, Timothy F; Linetsky, Michael; Haykinson, Michael J; Pope, Whitney B

    2014-03-01

    Malignant gliomas are the most common human primary brain tumors. Point mutation of amino acid arginine 132 to histidine (R132H) in the IDH1 protein leads to an enzymatic gain-of-function and is thought to promote gliomagenesis. Little is known about the downstream effects of the IDH1 mutation on protein expression and how and whether changes in protein expression are involved in tumor formation or propagation. In the current study, we used 2D DIGE (difference gel electrophoresis) and mass spectrometry to analyze differences in protein expression between IDH1(R132H) mutant and wild type anaplastic (grade III) astrocytoma from human brain cancer tissues. We show that expression levels of many proteins are altered in IDH1(R132H) mutant anaplastic astrocytoma. Some of the most over-expressed proteins in the mutants include several forms of αB-crystallin, a small heat-shock and anti-apoptotic protein. αB-crystallin proteins are elevated up to 22-fold in IDH1(R132H) mutant tumors, and αB-crystallin expression appears to be controlled at the post-translational level. We identified the most abundant form of αB-crystallin as a low molecular weight species that is C-terminally truncated. We also found that overexpression of αB-crystallin can be induced by transfecting U251 human glioblastoma cell lines with the IDH1(R132H) mutation. In conclusion, the association of a C-terminally truncated form of αB-crystallin protein with the IDH1(R132H) mutation is a novel finding that could impact apoptosis and stress response in IDH1 mutant glioma.

  19. The VPAC2 agonist peptide histidine isoleucine (PHI) up-regulates glutamate transport in the corpus callosum of a rat model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (hSOD1G93A) by inhibiting caspase-3 mediated inactivation of GLT-1a.

    PubMed

    Goursaud, Stéphanie; Focant, Marylène C; Berger, Julie V; Nizet, Yannick; Maloteaux, Jean-Marie; Hermans, Emmanuel

    2011-10-01

    Degeneration of corpus callosum appears in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) before clinical signs of upper motor neuron death. Considering the ALS-associated impairment of astrocytic glutamate uptake, we have characterized the expression and activity of the glutamate transporter isoforms GLT-1a and GLT-1b in the corpus callosum of transgenic rats expressing a mutated form of the human superoxide dismutase 1 (hSOD1(G93A)). We have also studied the effect of peptide histidine isoleucine (PHI), a vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)/pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) receptor 2 (VPAC(2)) agonist on glutamate transporters both in vivo and in callosal astrocytes. Before the onset of motor symptoms, the expression of both transporter isoforms was correlated with a constitutive activity of caspase-3. This enzyme participates in the down-regulation of GLT-1 in ALS, and here we demonstrated its involvement in the selective degradation of GLT-1a in the white matter. A single stereotactic injection of PHI into the corpus callosum of symptomatic rats decreased caspase-3 activity and promoted GLT-1a expression and uptake activity. Together, with evidence for a reduced expression of prepro-VIP/PHI mRNA in the corpus callosum of transgenic animals, these data shed light on the modulatory role of the VIP/PHI system on the glutamatergic transmission in ALS.

  20. Food-Grade Synthesis of Maillard-Type Taste Enhancers Using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES).

    PubMed

    Kranz, Maximilian; Hofmann, Thomas

    2018-01-28

    The increasing demand for healthier food products, with reduced levels of table salt, sugar, and mono sodium glutamate, reinforce the need for novel taste enhancers prepared by means of food-grade kitchen-type chemistry. Although several taste modulating compounds have been discovered in processed foods, their Maillard-type ex food production is usually not exploited by industrial process reactions as the yields of target compounds typically do not exceed 1-2%. Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) are reported for the first time to significantly increase the yields of the taste enhancers 1-deoxy-ᴅ-fructosyl-N-β-alanyl-ʟ-histidine (49% yield), N-(1-methyl-4-oxoimidazolidin-2-ylidene) aminopropionic acid (54% yield) and N²-(1-carboxyethyl) guanosine 5'-monophosphate (22% yield) at low temperature (80-100 °C) within a maximum reaction time of 2 h. Therefore, NADES open new avenues to a "next-generation culinary chemistry" overcoming the yield limitations of traditional Maillard chemistry approaches and enable a food-grade Maillard-type generation of flavor modulators.

  1. Structure of dehaloperoxidase B at 1.58 Å resolution and structural characterization of the AB dimer from Amphitrite ornata

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

    de Serrano, Vesna; D; Antonio, Jennifer

    2012-04-18

    As members of the globin superfamily, dehaloperoxidase (DHP) isoenzymes A and B from the marine annelid Amphitrite ornata possess hemoglobin function, but they also exhibit a biologically relevant peroxidase activity that is capable of converting 2,4,6-trihalophenols to the corresponding 2,6-dihaloquinones in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. Here, a comprehensive structural study of recombinant DHP B, both by itself and cocrystallized with isoenzyme A, using X-ray diffraction is presented. The structure of DHP B refined to 1.58 {angstrom} resolution exhibits the same distal histidine (His55) conformational flexibility as that observed in isoenzyme A, as well as additional changes to the distalmore » and proximal hydrogen-bonding networks. Furthermore, preliminary characterization of the DHP AB heterodimer is presented, which exhibits differences in the AB interface that are not observed in the A-only or B-only homodimers. These structural investigations of DHP B provide insights that may relate to the mechanistic details of the H{sub 2}O{sub 2}-dependent oxidative dehalogenation reaction catalyzed by dehaloperoxidase, present a clearer description of the function of specific residues in DHP at the molecular level and lead to a better understanding of the paradigms of globin structure-function relationships.« less

  2. On the active site of mononuclear B1 metallo β-lactamases: a computational study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sgrignani, Jacopo; Magistrato, Alessandra; Dal Peraro, Matteo; Vila, Alejandro J.; Carloni, Paolo; Pierattelli, Roberta

    2012-04-01

    Metallo-β-lactamases (MβLs) are Zn(II)-based bacterial enzymes that hydrolyze β-lactam antibiotics, hampering their beneficial effects. In the most relevant subclass (B1), X-ray crystallography studies on the enzyme from Bacillus Cereus point to either two zinc ions in two metal sites (the so-called `3H' and `DCH' sites) or a single Zn(II) ion in the 3H site, where the ion is coordinated by Asp120, Cys221 and His263 residues. However, spectroscopic studies on the B1 enzyme from B. Cereus in the mono-zinc form suggested the presence of the Zn(II) ion also in the DCH site, where it is bound to an aspartate, a cysteine, a histidine and a water molecule. A structural model of this enzyme in its DCH mononuclear form, so far lacking, is therefore required for inhibitor design and mechanistic studies. By using force field based and mixed quantum-classical (QM/MM) molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the protein in aqueous solution we constructed such structural model. The geometry and the H-bond network at the catalytic site of this model, in the free form and in complex with two common β-lactam drugs, is compared with experimental and theoretical findings of CphA and the recently solved crystal structure of new B2 MβL from Serratia fonticola (Sfh-I). These are MβLs from the B2 subclass, which features an experimentally well established mono-zinc form, in which the Zn(II) is located in the DCH site. From our simulations the ɛɛδ and δɛδ protomers emerge as possible DCH mono-zinc reactive species, giving a novel contribution to the discussion on the MβL reactivity and to the drug design process.

  3. Structure of dehaloperoxidase B at 1.58 Å resolution and structural characterization of the AB dimer from Amphitrite ornata

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

    Serrano, Vesna de; D’Antonio, Jennifer; Franzen, Stefan

    2010-05-01

    The crystal structure of dehaloperoxidase (DHP) isoenzyme B from the terebellid polychaete A. ornata, which exhibits both hemoglobin and peroxidase functions, has been determined at 1.58 Å resolution. As members of the globin superfamily, dehaloperoxidase (DHP) isoenzymes A and B from the marine annelid Amphitrite ornata possess hemoglobin function, but they also exhibit a biologically relevant peroxidase activity that is capable of converting 2,4,6-trihalophenols to the corresponding 2,6-dihaloquinones in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. Here, a comprehensive structural study of recombinant DHP B, both by itself and cocrystallized with isoenzyme A, using X-ray diffraction is presented. The structure of DHPmore » B refined to 1.58 Å resolution exhibits the same distal histidine (His55) conformational flexibility as that observed in isoenzyme A, as well as additional changes to the distal and proximal hydrogen-bonding networks. Furthermore, preliminary characterization of the DHP AB heterodimer is presented, which exhibits differences in the AB interface that are not observed in the A-only or B-only homodimers. These structural investigations of DHP B provide insights that may relate to the mechanistic details of the H{sub 2}O{sub 2}-dependent oxidative dehalogenation reaction catalyzed by dehaloperoxidase, present a clearer description of the function of specific residues in DHP at the molecular level and lead to a better understanding of the paradigms of globin structure–function relationships.« less

  4. Histidine content of low-molecular-weight beef proteins influences nonheme iron bioavailability in Caco-2 cells.

    PubMed

    Swain, James H; Tabatabai, Louisa B; Reddy, Manju B

    2002-02-01

    The objective of this study was to isolate and characterize beef muscle proteins that enhance nonheme iron bioavailability. Beef sirloin was cooked, lyophilized and reconstituted with water before in vitro digestion. After centrifugation, the digest supernatant was sequentially ultrafiltered using 10- and 1-kDa molecular weight cut-off membranes. Nonheme iron bioavailability was assessed by Caco-2 cell monolayer (59)Fe uptake using an extrinsic labeling method. All ultrafiltration fractions significantly (P < 0.001) increased iron solubility at pH 6.0, compared with the blank. However, iron uptake was significantly (P < 0.001) greater than the blank only in the presence of the 1-kDa retentate (1KR). Therefore, the 1KR was chosen for further analysis. Immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) of the 1KR yielded four fractions, i.e., three distinct fractions (F1, F3, F4) and one fraction (F2) comprised of a few closely associated peaks. All four IMAC fractions resulted in significantly (P < 0.001) greater (two- to fivefold) iron solubility at pH 6.0, compared with the blank. Iron uptake with F2 and F4 was significantly greater than the blank (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively). Gel electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization analysis illustrated that F1-F4 contained many peptides ranging from 1- to 7-kDa. Amino acid composition analysis revealed that histidine concentration increased progressively from F1 to F4, corresponding to a general, but not parallel increase in iron solubility and uptake. Our results suggest that the enhancement of nonheme iron absorption by beef may be due to peptides produced during gastrointestinal digestion and that histidine content may be important.

  5. Does aluminium bind to histidine? An NMR investigation of amyloid β12 and amyloid β16 fragments.

    PubMed

    Narayan, Priya; Krishnarjuna, Bankala; Vishwanathan, Vinaya; Jagadeesh Kumar, Dasappa; Babu, Sudhir; Ramanathan, Krishna Venkatachala; Easwaran, Kalpathy Ramaier Katchap; Nagendra, Holenarasipur Gundurao; Raghothama, Srinivasarao

    2013-07-01

    Aluminium and zinc are known to be the major triggering agents for aggregation of amyloid peptides leading to plaque formation in Alzheimer's disease. While zinc binding to histidine in Aβ (amyloid β) fragments has been implicated as responsible for aggregation, not much information is available on the interaction of aluminium with histidine. In the NMR study of the N-terminal Aβ fragments, DAEFRHDSGYEV (Aβ12) and DAEFRHDSGYEVHHQK (Aβ16) presented here, the interactions of the fragments with aluminium have been investigated. Significant chemical shifts were observed for few residues near the C-terminus when aluminium chloride was titrated with Aβ12 and Aβ16 peptides. Surprisingly, it is nonhistidine residues which seem to be involved in aluminium binding. Based on NMR constrained structure obtained by molecular modelling, aluminium-binding pockets in Aβ12 were around charged residues such as Asp, Glu. The results are discussed in terms of native structure propagation, and the relevance of histidine residues in the sequences for metal-binding interactions. We expect that the study of such short amyloid peptide fragments will not only provide clues for plaque formation in aggregated conditions but also facilitate design of potential drugs for these targets. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

  6. Enhanced membrane disruption and antibiotic action against pathogenic bacteria by designed histidine-rich peptides at acidic pH.

    PubMed

    Mason, A James; Gasnier, Claire; Kichler, Antoine; Prévost, Gilles; Aunis, Dominique; Metz-Boutigue, Marie-Hélène; Bechinger, Burkhard

    2006-10-01

    The histidine-rich amphipathic cationic peptide LAH4 has antibiotic and DNA delivery capabilities. Here, we explore the interaction of peptides from this family with model membranes as monitored by solid-state (2)H nuclear magnetic resonance and their antibiotic activities against a range of bacteria. At neutral pH, the membrane disruption is weak, but at acidic pH, the peptides strongly disturb the anionic lipid component of bacterial membranes and cause bacterial lysis. The peptides are effective antibiotics at both pH 7.2 and pH 5.5, although the antibacterial activity is strongly affected by the change in pH. At neutral pH, the LAH peptides were active against both methicillin-resistant and -sensitive Staphylococcus aureus strains but ineffective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In contrast, the LAH peptides were highly active against P. aeruginosa in an acidic environment, as is found in the epithelial-lining fluid of cystic fibrosis patients. Our results show that modest antibiotic activity of histidine-rich peptides can be dramatically enhanced by inducing membrane disruption, in this case by lowering the pH, and that histidine-rich peptides have potential as future antibiotic agents.

  7. Role of nutritional zinc in the prevention of osteoporosis.

    PubMed

    Yamaguchi, Masayoshi

    2010-05-01

    Zinc is known as an essential nutritional factor in the growth of the human and animals. Bone growth retardation is a common finding in various conditions associated with dietary zinc deficiency. Bone zinc content has been shown to decrease in aging, skeletal unloading, and postmenopausal conditions, suggesting its role in bone disorder. Zinc has been demonstrated to have a stimulatory effect on osteoblastic bone formation and mineralization; the metal directly activates aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase, a rate-limiting enzyme at translational process of protein synthesis, in the cells, and it stimulates cellular protein synthesis. Zinc has been shown to stimulate gene expression of the transcription factors runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) that is related to differentiation into osteoblastic cells. Moreover, zinc has been shown to inhibit osteoclastic bone resorption due to inhibiting osteoclast-like cell formation from bone marrow cells and stimulating apoptotic cell death of mature osteoclasts. Zinc has a suppressive effect on the receptor activator of nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclastogenesis. Zinc transporter has been shown to express in osteoblastic and osteoclastic cells. Zinc protein is involved in transcription. The intake of dietary zinc causes an increase in bone mass. beta-Alanyl-L: -histidinato zinc (AHZ) is a zinc compound, in which zinc is chelated to beta-alanyl-L: -histidine. The stimulatory effect of AHZ on bone formation is more intensive than that of zinc sulfate. Zinc acexamate has also been shown to have a potent-anabolic effect on bone. The oral administration of AHZ or zinc acexamate has the restorative effect on bone loss under various pathophysiologic conditions including aging, skeletal unloading, aluminum bone toxicity, calcium- and vitamin D-deficiency, adjuvant arthritis, estrogen deficiency, diabetes, and fracture healing. Zinc compounds may be designed as new supplementation factor in the prevention and

  8. Production of proinflammatory mediators in activated microglia is synergistically regulated by Notch-1, glycogen synthase kinase (GSK-3β) and NF-κB/p65 signalling.

    PubMed

    Cao, Qiong; Karthikeyan, Aparna; Dheen, S Thameem; Kaur, Charanjit; Ling, Eng-Ang

    2017-01-01

    Microglia activation and associated inflammatory response are involved in the pathogenesis of different neurodegenerative diseases. We have reported that Notch-1 and NF-κB/p65 signalling pathways operate in synergy in regulating the production of proinflammatory mediators in activated microglia. In the latter, there is also evidence by others that glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β) mediates the release of proinflammatory cytokines but the interrelationships between the three signalling pathways have not been fully clarified. This is an important issue as activated microglia are potential therapeutic target for amelioration of microglia mediated neuroinflammation. Here we show that blocking of Notch-1 with N-[(3,5-Difluorophenyl) acetyl]-L-alanyl-2-phenylglycine-1,1-dimethylethyl ester (DAPT) in LPS activated BV-2 microglia not only suppressed Notch intracellular domain (NICD) and Hes-1 protein expression, but also that of GSK-3β. Conversely, blocking of the latter with lithium chloride (LiCl) decreased NICD expression in a dose-dependent manner; moreover, Hes-1 immunofluorescence was attenuated. Along with this, the protein expression level of p-GSK-3β and p-AKT protein expression was significantly increased. Furthermore, DAPT and LiCl decreased production of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, iNOS, Cox2 and MCP-1; however, IL-10 expression was increased notably in LiCl treated cells. The effects of DAPT and LiCl on changes of the above-mentioned biomarkers were confirmed by immunofluorescence in both BV-2 and primary microglia. Additionally, NF-κB/p65 immunofluorescence was attenuated by DAPT and LiCl; as opposed to this, IκBα protein expression was increased. Taken together, it is suggested that Notch-1, NF-κB/p65 and GSK-3β operate in synergy to inhibit microglia activation. This may be effected via increased expression of phospho-GSK-3β (p-GSK-3β), phospho-protein kinase B (PKB) (p-AKT) and IκBα. It is concluded that the three signalling pathways are

  9. Histidine-rich stabilized polyplexes for cMet-directed tumor-targeted gene transfer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kos, Petra; Lächelt, Ulrich; Herrmann, Annika; Mickler, Frauke Martina; Döblinger, Markus; He, Dongsheng; Krhač Levačić, Ana; Morys, Stephan; Bräuchle, Christoph; Wagner, Ernst

    2015-03-01

    Overexpression of the hepatocyte growth factor receptor/c-Met proto oncogene on the surface of a variety of tumor cells gives an opportunity to specifically target cancerous tissues. Herein, we report the first use of c-Met as receptor for non-viral tumor-targeted gene delivery. Sequence-defined oligomers comprising the c-Met binding peptide ligand cMBP2 for targeting, a monodisperse polyethylene glycol (PEG) for polyplex surface shielding, and various cationic (oligoethanamino) amide cores containing terminal cysteines for redox-sensitive polyplex stabilization, were assembled by solid-phase supported syntheses. The resulting oligomers exhibited a greatly enhanced cellular uptake and gene transfer over non-targeted control sequences, confirming the efficacy and target-specificity of the formed polyplexes. Implementation of endosomal escape-promoting histidines in the cationic core was required for gene expression without additional endosomolytic agent. The histidine-enriched polyplexes demonstrated stability in serum as well as receptor-specific gene transfer in vivo upon intratumoral injection. The co-formulation with an analogous PEG-free cationic oligomer led to a further compaction of pDNA polyplexes with an obvious change of shape as demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy. Such compaction was critically required for efficient intravenous gene delivery which resulted in greatly enhanced, cMBP2 ligand-dependent gene expression in the distant tumor.Overexpression of the hepatocyte growth factor receptor/c-Met proto oncogene on the surface of a variety of tumor cells gives an opportunity to specifically target cancerous tissues. Herein, we report the first use of c-Met as receptor for non-viral tumor-targeted gene delivery. Sequence-defined oligomers comprising the c-Met binding peptide ligand cMBP2 for targeting, a monodisperse polyethylene glycol (PEG) for polyplex surface shielding, and various cationic (oligoethanamino) amide cores containing

  10. Contribution of Histidine and Lysine to the Generation of Volatile Compounds in Jinhua Ham Exposed to Ripening Conditions Via Maillard Reaction.

    PubMed

    Zhu, Chao-Zhi; Zhao, Jing-Li; Tian, Wei; Liu, Yan-Xia; Li, Miao-Yun; Zhao, Gai-Ming

    2018-01-01

    To evaluate the role of Maillard reactions in the generation of flavor compounds in Jinhua ham, the reactions of glucose and ethanal with histidine and lysine, respectively, were studied by simulating the ripening conditions of Jinhua ham. The volatile products produced were analyzed using solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The results showed that 8 volatile compounds were generated by the reaction of glucose and histidine and 10 volatile compounds were generated by the reaction of glucose and lysine. Reactions of ethanal with lysine and with histidine both generated 31 volatile compounds that contributed to the flavor of Jinhua ham. This indicates that histidine and lysine related to Maillard reactions possibly play important roles in the generation of the unique flavor compounds in Jinhua ham. This research demonstrates that free amino acids participate in the generation of volatile compounds from Jinhua ham via the Maillard reaction and provides a basic mechanism to explain flavor formation in Jinhua ham. Jinhua ham is a well-known traditional Chinese dry-cured meat product. However, the formation of the compounds comprising its special flavor is not well understood. Our results indicate that Maillard reactions occur in Jinhua ham under ripening conditions. This work illustrates the contribution of Maillard reactions to the flavor of Jinhua ham. © 2017 Institute of Food Technologists®.

  11. Expression and functional analysis of genes encoding cytokinin receptor-like histidine kinase in maize (Zea mays L.).

    PubMed

    Wang, Bo; Chen, Yanhong; Guo, Baojian; Kabir, Muhammad Rezaul; Yao, Yingyin; Peng, Huiru; Xie, Chaojie; Zhang, Yirong; Sun, Qixin; Ni, Zhongfu

    2014-08-01

    Cytokinin signaling is vital for plant growth and development which function via the two-component system (TCS). As one of the key component of TCS, transmembrane histidine kinases (HK) are encoded by a small gene family in plants. In this study, we focused on expression and functional analysis of cytokinin receptor-like HK genes (ZmHK) in maize. Firstly, bioinformatics analysis revealed that seven cloned ZmHK genes have different expression patterns during maize development. Secondly, ectopic expression by CaMV35S promoter in Arabidopsis further revealed that functional differentiation exists among these seven members. Among them, the ZmHK1a2-OX transgenic line has the lowest germination rate in the dark, ZmHK1-OX and ZmHK2a2-OX can delay leaf senescence, and seed size of ZmHK1-OX, ZmHK1a2-OX, ZmHK2-OX, ZmHK3b-OX and ZmHK2a2-OX was obviously reduced as compared to wild type. Additionally, ZmHK genes play opposite roles in shoot and root development; all ZmHK-OX transgenic lines display obvious shorter root length and reduced number of lateral roots, but enhanced shoot development compared with the wild type. Most notably, Arabidopsis response regulator ARR5 gene was up-regulated in ZmHK1-OX, ZmHK1a2-OX, ZmHK2-OX, ZmHK3b-OX and ZmHK2a2-OX as compared to wild type. Although the causal link between ZmHK genes and cytokinin signaling pathway is still an area to be further elucidated, these findings reflected that the diversification of ZmHK genes expression patterns and functions occurred in the course of maize evolution, indicating that some ZmHK genes might play different roles during maize development.

  12. Crystal structure and tartrate inhibition of Legionella pneumophila histidine acid phosphatase.

    PubMed

    Dhatwalia, Richa; Singh, Harkewal; Reilly, Thomas J; Tanner, John J

    2015-11-01

    Histidine acid phosphatases (HAPs) utilize a nucleophilic histidine residue to catalyze the transfer of a phosphoryl group from phosphomonoesters to water. HAPs function as protein phosphatases and pain suppressors in mammals, are essential for Giardia lamblia excystation, and contribute to virulence of the category A pathogen Francisella tularensis. Herein we report the first crystal structure and steady-state kinetics measurements of the HAP from Legionella pneumophila (LpHAP), also known as Legionella major acid phosphatase. The structure of LpHAP complexed with the inhibitor l(+)-tartrate was determined at 2.0 Å resolution. Kinetics assays show that l(+)-tartrate is a 50-fold more potent inhibitor of LpHAP than of other HAPs. Electrostatic potential calculations provide insight into the basis for the enhanced tartrate potency: the tartrate pocket of LpHAP is more positive than other HAPs because of the absence of an ion pair partner for the second Arg of the conserved RHGXRXP HAP signature sequence. The structure also reveals that LpHAP has an atypically expansive active site entrance and lacks the nucleotide substrate base clamp found in other HAPs. These features imply that nucleoside monophosphates may not be preferred substrates. Kinetics measurements confirm that AMP is a relatively inefficient in vitro substrate of LpHAP. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Hydrothermal synthesis of histidine-functionalized single-crystalline gold nanoparticles and their pH-dependent UV absorption characteristic.

    PubMed

    Liu, Zhiguo; Zu, Yuangang; Fu, Yujie; Meng, Ronghua; Guo, Songling; Xing, Zhimin; Tan, Shengnan

    2010-03-01

    L-Histidine capped single-crystalline gold nanoparticles have been synthesized by a hydrothermal process under a basic condition at temperature between 65 and 150 degrees C. The produced gold nanoparticles were spherical with average diameter of 11.5+/-2.9nm. The synthesized gold colloidal solution was very stable and can be stored at room temperature for more than 6 months. The color of the colloidal solution can change from wine red to mauve, purple and blue during the acidifying process. This color changing phenomenon is attributed to the aggregation of gold nanoparticles resulted from hydrogen bond formation between the histidines adsorbed on the gold nanoparticles surfaces. This hydrothermal synthetic method is expected to be used for synthesizing some other amino acid functionalized gold nanomaterials.

  14. Contributions of the Histidine Side Chain and the N-terminal α-Amino Group to the Binding Thermodynamics of Oligopeptides to Nucleic Acids as a Function of pH

    PubMed Central

    Ballin, Jeff D.; Prevas, James P.; Ross, Christina R.; Toth, Eric A.; Wilson, Gerald M.; Record, M. Thomas

    2010-01-01

    Interactions of histidine with nucleic acid phosphates and histidine pKa shifts make important contributions to many protein-nucleic acid binding processes. To characterize these phenomena in simplified systems, we quantified binding of a histidine-containing model peptide HWKK (+NH3-His-Trp-Lys-Lys-NH2) and its lysine analog KWKK (+NH3-Lys-Trp-Lys-Lys-NH2) to a single-stranded RNA model, polyuridylate (polyU), by changes in tryptophan fluorescence as a function of salt concentration and pH. For both HWKK and KWKK, equilibrium binding constants, Kobs, and magnitudes of log-log salt derivatives SKobs ≡ (∂logKobs/∂log[Na+]), decreased with increasing pH in the manner expected for a titration curve model in which deprotonation of the histidine and α-amino groups weakens binding and reduces its salt-dependence. Fully protonated HWKK and KWKK exhibit the same Kobs and SKobs within uncertainty, and these SKobs values are consistent with limiting-law polyelectrolyte theory for +4 cationic oligopeptides binding to single-stranded nucleic acids. The pH-dependence of HWKK binding to polyU provides no evidence for pKa shifts nor any requirement for histidine protonation, in stark contrast to the thermodynamics of coupled protonation often seen for these cationic residues in the context of native protein structure where histidine protonation satisfies specific interactions (e.g., salt-bridge formation) within highly complementary binding interfaces. The absence of pKa shifts in our studies indicates that additional Coulombic interactions across the nonspecific-binding interface between RNA and protonated histidine or the α-amino group are not sufficient to promote proton uptake for these oligopeptides. We present our findings in the context of hydration models for specific versus nonspecific nucleic acid binding. PMID:20108951

  15. The identification of four histidine kinases that influence sporulation in Clostridium thermocellum.

    PubMed

    Mearls, Elizabeth B; Lynd, Lee R

    2014-08-01

    In this study, we sought to identify genes involved in the onset of spore formation in Clostridium thermocellum via targeted gene deletions, gene over-expression, and transcriptional analysis. We determined that three putative histidine kinases, clo1313_0286, clo1313_2735 and clo1313_1942 were positive regulators of sporulation, while a fourth kinase, clo1313_1973, acted as a negative regulator. Unlike Bacillus or other Clostridium species, the deletion of a single positively regulating kinase was sufficient to abolish sporulation in this organism. Sporulation could be restored in these asporogenous strains via overexpression of any one of the positive regulators, indicating a high level of redundancy between these kinases. In addition to having a sporulation defect, deletion of clo1313_2735 produced L-forms. Thus, this kinase may play an additional role in repressing L-form formation. This work suggests that C. thermocellum enters non-growth states based on the sensory input from multiple histidine kinases. The ability to control the development of non-growth states at the genetic level has the potential to inform strategies for improved strain development, as well as provide valuable insight into C. thermocellum biology. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Mutual augmentation of the induction of the histamine-forming enzyme, histidine decarboxylase, between alendronate and immuno-stimulants (IL-1, TNF, and LPS), and its prevention by clodronate

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

    Deng Xue; Department of Oral Diagnosis, Graduate School of Dentistry, Tohoku University, Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8575; Yu Zhiqian

    2006-05-15

    Nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates (N-BPs), powerful anti-bone-resorptive drugs, have inflammatory side effects, while histamine is not only an inflammatory mediator, but also an immuno-modifier. In murine models, a single intraperitoneal injection of an N-BP induces various inflammatory reactions, including the induction of the histamine-forming enzyme histidine decarboxylase (HDC) in tissues important in immune responses (such as liver, lungs, spleen, and bone marrow). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1 and TNF are also capable of inducing HDC. We reported previously that in mice (i) the inflammatory actions of N-BPs depend on IL-1 (ii) N-BP pretreatment augments both LPS-stimulated IL-1 production and HDCmore » induction, and (iii) the co-administration of clodronate (a non-N-BP) with an N-BP inhibits the latter's inflammatory actions (including HDC induction). Here, we add the new findings that (a) pretreatment with alendronate (a typical N-BP) augments both IL-1- and TNF-induced HDC elevations, (b) LPS pretreatment augments the alendronate-induced HDC elevation, (c) co-administration of clodronate with alendronate abolishes these augmentations, (d) alendronate does not induce HDC in IL-1-deficient mice even if they are pretreated with LPS, and (e) alendronate increases IL-1{beta} in all tissues tested, but not in the serum. These results suggest that (1) there are mutual augmentations between alendronate and immuno-stimulants (IL-1, TNF, and LPS) in HDC induction, (2) tissue IL-1{beta} is important in alendronate-stimulated HDC induction, and (3) combination use of clodronate may have the potential to reduce the inflammatory effects of alendronate (we previously found that clodronate, conveniently, does not inhibit the anti-bone-resorptive activity of alendronate)« less

  17. Alkali metals in addition to acidic pH activate the EvgS histidine kinase sensor in Escherichia coli.

    PubMed

    Eguchi, Yoko; Utsumi, Ryutaro

    2014-09-01

    Two-component signal transduction systems (TCSs) in bacteria perceive environmental stress and transmit the information via phosphorelay to adjust multiple cellular functions for adaptation. The EvgS/EvgA system is a TCS that confers acid resistance to Escherichia coli cells. Activation of the EvgS sensor initiates a cascade of transcription factors, EvgA, YdeO, and GadE, which induce the expression of a large group of acid resistance genes. We searched for signals activating EvgS and found that a high concentration of alkali metals (Na(+), K(+)) in addition to low pH was essential for the activation. EvgS is a histidine kinase, with a large periplasmic sensor region consisting of two tandem PBPb (bacterial periplasmic solute-binding protein) domains at its N terminus. The periplasmic sensor region of EvgS was necessary for EvgS activation, and Leu152, located within the first PBPb domain, was involved in the activation. Furthermore, chimeras of EvgS and PhoQ histidine kinases suggested that alkali metals were perceived at the periplasmic sensor region, whereas the cytoplasmic linker domain, connecting the transmembrane region and the histidine kinase domain, was required for low-pH perception. Copyright © 2014, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

  18. Histidine residues in the Na+-coupled ascorbic acid transporter-2 (SVCT2) are central regulators of SVCT2 function, modulating pH sensitivity, transporter kinetics, Na+ cooperativity, conformational stability, and subcellular localization.

    PubMed

    Ormazabal, Valeska; Zuñiga, Felipe A; Escobar, Elizabeth; Aylwin, Carlos; Salas-Burgos, Alexis; Godoy, Alejandro; Reyes, Alejandro M; Vera, Juan Carlos; Rivas, Coralia I

    2010-11-19

    Na(+)-coupled ascorbic acid transporter-2 (SVCT2) activity is impaired at acid pH, but little is known about the molecular determinants that define the transporter pH sensitivity. SVCT2 contains six histidine residues in its primary sequence, three of which are exofacial in the transporter secondary structure model. We used site-directed mutagenesis and treatment with diethylpyrocarbonate to identify histidine residues responsible for SVCT2 pH sensitivity. We conclude that five histidine residues, His(109), His(203), His(206), His(269), and His(413), are central regulators of SVCT2 function, participating to different degrees in modulating pH sensitivity, transporter kinetics, Na(+) cooperativity, conformational stability, and subcellular localization. Our results are compatible with a model in which (i) a single exofacial histidine residue, His(413), localized in the exofacial loop IV that connects transmembrane helices VII-VIII defines the pH sensitivity of SVCT2 through a mechanism involving a marked attenuation of the activation by Na(+) and loss of Na(+) cooperativity, which leads to a decreased V(max) without altering the transport K(m); (ii) exofacial histidine residues His(203), His(206), and His(413) may be involved in maintaining a functional interaction between exofacial loops II and IV and influence the general folding of the transporter; (iii) histidines 203, 206, 269, and 413 affect the transporter kinetics by modulating the apparent transport K(m); and (iv) histidine 109, localized at the center of transmembrane helix I, might be fundamental for the interaction of SVCT2 with the transported substrate ascorbic acid. Thus, histidine residues are central regulators of SVCT2 function.

  19. Overlapping and lineage-specific roles for the type-B response regulators of monocots and dicots.

    PubMed

    Kim, Hyo Jung; Kieber, Joseph J; Schaller, G Eric

    2012-09-01

    Cytokinins are plant hormones with profound roles in growth and development. Cytokinin signaling is mediated through a 'two-component' signaling system composed of histidine kinases, histidine-containing phosphotransfer proteins, and response regulators. Phylogenetic analysis of two-component signaling elements from the monocot rice and the dicot Arabidopsis reveals lineage-specific expansions of the type-B response regulators, transcription factors that act as positive regulators for the cytokinin signal. We recently reported in Plant Physiology on a functional analysis of rice type-B response regulators. A type-B response regulator from a subfamily comprised of both monocot and dicot type-B response regulators complemented an Arabidopsis type-B response regulator mutant, but a type-B response regulator from a monocot-specific subfamily generally did not. Here, we extend this analysis to demonstrate that the promoter of an Arabidopsis cytokinin primary response gene is induced by type-B response regulators from a shared subfamily, but not by one from a lineage-specific subfamily. These results support a model in which the type-B response regulators of monocots and dicots share conserved roles in the cytokinin signaling pathway but have also diverged to take on lineage-specific roles.

  20. Crystallographic studies of the complex of human HINT1 protein with a non-hydrolyzable analog of Ap4A.

    PubMed

    Dolot, Rafał; Kaczmarek, Renata; Sęda, Aleksandra; Krakowiak, Agnieszka; Baraniak, Janina; Nawrot, Barbara

    2016-06-01

    Histidine triad nucleotide-binding protein 1 (HINT1) represents the most ancient and widespread branch in the histidine triad proteins superfamily. HINT1 plays an important role in various biological processes, and it has been found in many species. Here, we report the first structure (at a 2.34Å resolution) of a complex of human HINT1 with a non-hydrolyzable analog of an Ap4A dinucleotide, containing bis-phosphorothioated glycerol mimicking a polyphosphate chain, obtained from a primitive monoclinic space group P21 crystal. In addition, the apo form of hHINT1 at the space group P21 refined to 1.92Å is reported for comparative studies. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Effect of 5-S-GAD on UV-B-induced cataracts in rats.

    PubMed

    Kawada, Hiroyoshi; Kojima, Masami; Kimura, Takahito; Natori, Shunji; Sasaki, Kazuyuki; Sasaki, Hiroshi

    2009-09-01

    5-S-Glutathionyl-N-beta-alanyl-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (5-S-GAD) is a novel antibacterial substance purified from Sarcophaga peregrina (flesh fly) that has both a radical scavenging activity and antioxidative activity. This is a report of an investigation of the effect of 5-S-GAD (eyedrops) on UVB-induced cataracts in rats. Brown Norway male rats (n = 32; 7 weeks old) were treated with either 5-S-GAD 0.1%, 5-SGAD 1%, astaxanthin (AST) 0.1% suspension eyedrops or the vehicle alone (the solution without 5-S-GAD) three times a day (three doses at 5-min intervals each time). The treatment was scheduled 2 days before UV-B exposure and 2 days after UV-B exposure. Exposure to 100-200 mJ/cm(2) UV-B was performed once a week between drug treatments for 9 consecutive weeks, with a total dose of 1200 mJ/cm(2) UV-B. Ocular penetration of 5-S-GAD was analyzed using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Cataract formation was documented by an anterior eye segment analysis system once a week under mydriasis. The light-scattering intensity (LSI) of the anterior superficial cortex region was measured. In the eighth to ninth week after the start of UV-B exposure, the LSI of anterior subcapsular lenses of 5-S-GAD-treated groups, as detected by HPLC, was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than that of the control, whereas no such difference was found in the AST-treated group. 5-S-GAD eyedrop application may delay the progression of UV-B-induced cataract in rats.

  2. Aldo-keto Reductase 1B15 (AKR1B15)

    PubMed Central

    Weber, Susanne; Salabei, Joshua K.; Möller, Gabriele; Kremmer, Elisabeth; Bhatnagar, Aruni; Adamski, Jerzy; Barski, Oleg A.

    2015-01-01

    Aldo-keto reductases (AKRs) comprise a superfamily of proteins involved in the reduction and oxidation of biogenic and xenobiotic carbonyls. In humans, at least 15 AKR superfamily members have been identified so far. One of these is a newly identified gene locus, AKR1B15, which clusters on chromosome 7 with the other human AKR1B subfamily members (i.e. AKR1B1 and AKR1B10). We show that alternative splicing of the AKR1B15 gene transcript gives rise to two protein isoforms with different N termini: AKR1B15.1 is a 316-amino acid protein with 91% amino acid identity to AKR1B10; AKR1B15.2 has a prolonged N terminus and consists of 344 amino acid residues. The two gene products differ in their expression level, subcellular localization, and activity. In contrast with other AKR enzymes, which are mostly cytosolic, AKR1B15.1 co-localizes with the mitochondria. Kinetic studies show that AKR1B15.1 is predominantly a reductive enzyme that catalyzes the reduction of androgens and estrogens with high positional selectivity (17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity) as well as 3-keto-acyl-CoA conjugates and exhibits strong cofactor selectivity toward NADP(H). In accordance with its substrate spectrum, the enzyme is expressed at the highest levels in steroid-sensitive tissues, namely placenta, testis, and adipose tissue. Placental and adipose expression could be reproduced in the BeWo and SGBS cell lines, respectively. In contrast, AKR1B15.2 localizes to the cytosol and displays no enzymatic activity with the substrates tested. Collectively, these results demonstrate the existence of a novel catalytically active AKR, which is associated with mitochondria and expressed mainly in steroid-sensitive tissues. PMID:25577493

  3. Assessing the acid-base and conformational properties of histidine residues in human prion protein (125-228) by means of pK(a) calculations and molecular dynamics simulations.

    PubMed

    Langella, Emma; Improta, Roberto; Crescenzi, Orlando; Barone, Vincenzo

    2006-07-01

    A thorough study of the acid-base behavior of the four histidines and the other titratable residues of the structured domain of human prion protein (125-228) is presented. By using multi-tautomer electrostatic calculations, average titration curves have been built for all titratable residues, using the whole bundles of NMR structures determined at pH 4.5 and 7.0. According to our results, (1) only histidine residues are likely to be involved in the first steps of the pH-driven conformational transition of prion protein; (2) the pK(a)'s of His140 and His177 are approximately 7.0, whereas those of His155 and His187 are < 5.5. 10-ns long molecular dynamics simulations have been performed on five different models, corresponding to the most significant combinations of histidine protonation states. A critical comparison between the available NMR structures and our computational results (1) confirms that His155 and His187 are the residues whose protonation is involved in the conformational rearrangement of huPrP in mildly acidic condition, and (2) shows how their protonation leads to the destructuration of the C-terminal part of HB and to the loss of the last turn of HA that represent the crucial microscopic steps of the rearrangement. (c) 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  4. Two types of phytases (histidine acid phytase and β-propeller phytase) in Serratia sp. TN49 from the gut of Batocera horsfieldi (coleoptera) larvae.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Rui; Yang, Peilong; Huang, Huoqing; Shi, Pengjun; Yuan, Tiezheng; Yao, Bin

    2011-11-01

    Microbial phytases play a major role in the mineralization of organic phosphorous, especially in symbiotic plants and animals. In this study, we identified two types of phytases in Serratia sp. TN49 that was harbored in the gut of Batocera horsfieldi (Coleoptera) larvae. The two phytases, an acidic histidine acid phosphatase (PhyH49) and an alkaline β-propeller phytase (PhyB49), shared low identities with known phytases (61% at most). PhyH49 and PhyB49 produced in Escherichia coli exhibited maximal activities at pH 5.0 (60°C) and pH 7.5-8.0 (45°C), respectively, and are complementary in phytate degradation over the pH range 2.0-9.0. Serratia sp. TN49 harboring both PhyH49 and PhyB49 might make it more adaptive to environment change, corresponding to the evolution trend of microorganism.

  5. B-1 phagocytes: the myeloid face of B-1 cells.

    PubMed

    Popi, Ana Flavia

    2015-12-01

    The relationship between malignant B cells and macrophages has long been established. Furthermore, evolutionary studies have demonstrated that B cells from early vertebrates have both phagocytic and antibody production capabilities. In addition to their lymphoid nature, B-1 cells retain several myeloid characteristics. Various reports have demonstrated that B-1 cells can differentiate into phagocytes. However, descriptions of B-1 cells as a novel phagocyte cell member are rarely found in the literature. This review aims to present the available data regarding B-1 cell-derived phagocytes and also discusses how their existence might be relevant to hematopoiesis and immune responses. © 2015 New York Academy of Sciences.

  6. The thermodynamic characteristics of solution of L-α-histidine and L-α-phenylalanine in water at 273 373 K

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kustov, A. V.; Korolev, V. P.

    2008-11-01

    The solubility of L-phenylalanine and L-histidine in water at 298.15 and 318.15 K and the heat effects of solution of the amino acids at 328.15 K were determined. These results and the data obtained earlier were used to calculate all the standard thermodynamic functions of solution of the amino acids and the solubilities of L-phenylalanine and L-histidine over the temperature range 273 373 K. The selection of the form of the Δsol H o = f( T) dependence had a negligible effect on the free energies of solution and solubilities of the amino acids. This selection primarily influenced the entropy and heat capacity characteristics of the process.

  7. 75 FR 16664 - Airworthiness Directives; Turbomeca ARRIEL 1B, 1D, 1D1, 2B, and 2B1 Turboshaft Engines

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-04-02

    ... limited to, Eurocopter AS 350 B, AS 350 BA, AS 350 B1, AS 350 B2, AS 350 B3, and EC 130 B4 helicopters... an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as: During production of Arriel 1 and... by Turbom[eacute]ca. Potentially non-conforming PT blades have been traced as having been installed...

  8. Structural and Functional Characterization of a Cytochrome P450 2B4 F429H Mutant with an Axial Thiolate–Histidine Hydrogen Bond

    PubMed Central

    2015-01-01

    The structural basis of the regulation of microsomal cytochrome P450 (P450) activity was investigated by mutating the highly conserved heme binding motif residue, Phe429, on the proximal side of cytochrome P450 2B4 to a histidine. Spectroscopic, pre-steady-state and steady-state kinetic, thermodynamic, theoretical, and structural studies of the mutant demonstrate that formation of an H-bond between His429 and the unbonded electron pair of the Cys436 axial thiolate significantly alters the properties of the enzyme. The mutant lost >90% of its activity; its redox potential was increased by 87 mV, and the half-life of the oxyferrous mutant was increased ∼37-fold. Single-crystal electronic absorption and resonance Raman spectroscopy demonstrated that the mutant was reduced by a small dose of X-ray photons. The structure revealed that the δN atom of His429 forms an H-bond with the axial Cys436 thiolate whereas the εN atom forms an H-bond with the solvent and the side chain of Gln357. The amide of Gly438 forms the only other H-bond to the tetrahedral thiolate. Theoretical quantification of the histidine–thiolate interaction demonstrates a significant electron withdrawing effect on the heme iron. Comparisons of structures of class I–IV P450s demonstrate that either a phenylalanine or tryptophan is often found at the location corresponding to Phe429. Depending on the structure of the distal pocket heme, the residue at this location may or may not regulate the thermodynamic properties of the P450. Regardless, this residue appears to protect the thiolate from solvent, oxidation, protonations, and other deleterious reactions. PMID:25029089

  9. Protonation-modulated localization of excess electrons in histidine aqueous solutions revealed by ab initio molecular dynamics simulations: anion-centered versus cation-centered localization.

    PubMed

    Gao, Liang; Bu, Yuxiang

    2017-05-31

    In this work, we present an ab initio molecular dynamics simulation study on the interaction of an excess electron (EE) with histidine in its aqueous solution. Two different configurations of histidine (imidazole group protonated or not) are considered to reflect its different existing forms in neutral or slightly acidic surroundings. The simulation results indicate that localizations of EEs in different aqueous histidine solutions are quite different and are strongly affected by protonation of the side chain imidazole group and are thus pH-controlled. In neutral aqueous histidine solution, an EE localizes onto the carboxyl anionic group of the amino acid backbone after a relatively lengthy diffuse state, performing just like in an aliphatic amino acid solution. But in weakly acidic solution in which the side chain imidazole group is protonated, an EE undergoes a short lifetime diffuse state and finally localizes on the protonated imidazole group. We carefully examine these two different localization dynamics processes and analyze the competition between different dominating groups in their corresponding electron localization mechanisms. To explain the difference, we investigate the frontier molecular orbitals of these two systems and find that their energy levels and compositions are important to determine these differences. These findings can provide helpful information to understand the interaction mechanisms of low energy EEs with amino acids and even oligopeptides, especially with aromatic rings.

  10. Expression, purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of human histidine triad nucleotide-binding protein 2 (hHINT2)

    PubMed Central

    Dolot, Rafał; Włodarczyk, Artur; Bujacz, Grzegorz D.; Nawrot, Barbara

    2013-01-01

    Histidine triad nucleotide-binding protein 2 (HINT2) is a mitochondrial adenosine phosphoramidase mainly expressed in the pancreas, liver and adrenal gland. HINT2 possibly plays a role in apoptosis, as well as being involved in steroid biosynthesis, hepatic lipid metabolism and regulation of hepatic mitochondria function. The expression level of HINT2 is significantly down-regulated in hepatocellular carcinoma patients. To date, endogenous substrates for this enzyme, as well as the three-dimensional structure of human HINT2, are unknown. In this study, human HINT2 was cloned, overexpressed in Escherichia coli and purified. Crystallization was performed at 278 K using PEG 4000 as the main precipitant; the crystals, which belonged to the tetragonal space group P41212 with unit-cell parameters a = b = 76.38, c = 133.25 Å, diffracted to 2.83 Å resolution. Assuming two molecules in the asymmetric unit, the Matthews coefficient and the solvent content were calculated to be 2.63 Å3 Da−1 and 53.27%, respectively. PMID:23832208

  11. Agglutination of human erythrocytes by the interaction of Zn(2+)ion with histidine-651 on the extracellular domain of band 3.

    PubMed

    Kiyotake, Kento; Ochiai, Hideharu; Yamaguchi, Takeo

    2016-05-01

    Clustering of band 3, chloride/bicarbonate exchanger, has been reported in Zn(2+)-treated human erythrocytes. However, the agglutination of human erythrocytes is also induced by the interaction of Zn(2+)ion with histidine on band 3. Identification of histidine that interacts with Zn(2+)ion remains to be determined. The Zn(2+)-induced agglutination of human erythrocytes was unaffected by chymotrypsin cleavage of the small loop region containing His-547 in the extracellular domain of band 3. On the other hand, papain digestion of the large loop region containing His-651 in band 3 inhibited such Zn(2+)-induced agglutination. Moreover, Zn(2+)-induced erythrocyte agglutination was inhibited by the peptide (ARGWVIHPLG) containing His-651, but not by the peptide such as ARGWVIRPLG, which His-651 was substituted by arginine. Among 10 kinds of animal erythrocytes tested, interestingly, no agglutination by Zn(2+)ions was observed in cow cells only that the forth amino acid in the upstream from His-669 on the large loop of cow band 3 is aspartate (Asp-665) instead of glycine. As expected, the agglutination of human erythrocytes by Zn(2+) ions was inhibited in the presence of aspartate. These data indicate that the interaction of Zn(2+) ion with His-651 residue of band 3 plays an important role in the Zn(2+)-induced agglutination of human erythrocytes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Characterization of Chlamydia MurC-Ddl, a fusion protein exhibiting D-alanyl-D-alanine ligase activity involved in peptidoglycan synthesis and D-cycloserine sensitivity.

    PubMed

    McCoy, Andrea J; Maurelli, Anthony T

    2005-07-01

    Recent characterization of chlamydial genes encoding functional peptidoglycan (PG)-synthesis proteins suggests that the Chlamydiaceae possess the ability to synthesize PG yet biochemical evidence for the synthesis of PG has yet to be demonstrated. The presence of D-amino acids in PG is a hallmark of bacteria. Chlamydiaceae do not appear to encode amino acid racemases however, a D-alanyl-D-alanine (D-Ala-D-Ala) ligase homologue (Ddl) is encoded in the genome. Thus, we undertook a genetics-based approach to demonstrate and characterize the D-Ala-D-Ala ligase activity of chlamydial Ddl, a protein encoded as a fusion with MurC. The full-length murC-ddl fusion gene from Chlamydia trachomatis serovar L2 was cloned and placed under the control of the arabinose-inducible ara promoter and transformed into a D-Ala-D-Ala ligase auxotroph of Escherichia coli possessing deletions of both the ddlA and ddlB genes. Viability of the E. coliDeltaddlADeltaddlB mutant in the absence of exogenous D-Ala-D-Ala dipeptide became dependent on the expression of the chlamydial murC-ddl thus demonstrating functional ligase activity. Domain mapping of the full-length fusion protein and site-directed mutagenesis of the MurC domain revealed that the structure of the full fusion protein but not MurC enzymatic activity was required for ligase activity in vivo. Recombinant MurC-Ddl exhibited substrate specificity for D-Ala. Chlamydia growth is inhibited by D-cycloserine (DCS) and in vitro analysis provided evidence for the chlamydial MurC-Ddl as the target for DCS sensitivity. In vivo sensitivity to DCS could be reversed by addition of exogenous D-Ala and D-Ala-D-Ala. Together, these findings further support our hypothesis that PG is synthesized by members of the Chlamydiaceae family and suggest that D-amino acids, specifically D-Ala, are present in chlamydial PG.

  13. Full-length structure of a monomeric histidine kinase reveals basis for sensory regulation

    DOE PAGES

    Rivera-Cancel, Giomar; Ko, Wen-huang; Tomchick, Diana R.; ...

    2014-12-02

    Although histidine kinases (HKs) are critical sensors of external stimuli in prokaryotes, the mechanisms by which their sensor domains control enzymatic activity remain unclear. In this paper, we report the full-length structure of a blue light-activated HK from Erythrobacter litoralis HTCC2594 (EL346) and the results of biochemical and biophysical studies that explain how it is activated by light. Contrary to the standard view that signaling occurs within HK dimers, EL346 functions as a monomer. Its structure reveals that the light–oxygen–voltage (LOV) sensor domain both controls kinase activity and prevents dimerization by binding one side of a dimerization/histidine phosphotransfer-like (DHpL) domain.more » The DHpL domain also contacts the catalytic/ATP-binding (CA) domain, keeping EL346 in an inhibited conformation in the dark. Upon light stimulation, interdomain interactions weaken to facilitate activation. Our data suggest that the LOV domain controls kinase activity by affecting the stability of the DHpL/CA interface, releasing the CA domain from an inhibited conformation upon photoactivation. Finally, we suggest parallels between EL346 and dimeric HKs, with sensor-induced movements in the DHp similarly remodeling the DHp/CA interface as part of activation.« less

  14. Solution Growth of a Novel Nonlinear Optical Material: L-Histidine Tetrafluoroborate

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Aggarwal, M. D.; Choi, J.; Wang, W. S.; Bhat, K.; Lal, R. B.; Shields, Angela D.; Penn, Benjamin G.; Frazier, Donald O.

    1998-01-01

    Single crystals of L-Histidine tetrafluoroborate (L-HFB), a semiorganic nonlinear optical (NLO) material have been successfully grown by the temperature lowering and evaporation methods in our laboratory. Solubility curves of L-HFB have been determined in different solvents, such as water, ethanol and acetone. The solubility of L-HFB is very low in acetone, and ethanol, therefore, it is not feasible to grow L-HFB single crystals using these solvents. Good quality single crystals of a novel nonlinear optical material L-HFB have been grown from aqueous solution. Effects of seed orientation on morphologies of L-HFB crystals were studied. The advantages and disadvantage of both the evaporation and the temperature lowering techniques are compared. The single crystals in size 20 x 20 x 10 cubic mm were grown with deionized water as solvent in two weeks with an approximate growth rate of 1.4mm/day. The transmission range for these crystals has been found to be from 250 nm to 1500 nm.

  15. Hybrid histidine kinases in pathogenic fungi.

    PubMed

    Defosse, Tatiana A; Sharma, Anupam; Mondal, Alok K; Dugé de Bernonville, Thomas; Latgé, Jean-Paul; Calderone, Richard; Giglioli-Guivarc'h, Nathalie; Courdavault, Vincent; Clastre, Marc; Papon, Nicolas

    2015-03-01

    Histidine kinases (HK) sense and transduce via phosphorylation events many intra- and extracellular signals in bacteria, archaea, slime moulds and plants. HK are also widespread in the fungal kingdom, but their precise roles in the regulation of physiological processes remain largely obscure. Expanding genomic resources have recently given the opportunity to identify uncharacterised HK family members in yeasts and moulds and now allow proposing a complex classification of Basidiomycota, Ascomycota and lower fungi HK. A growing number of genetic approaches have progressively provided new insight into the role of several groups of HK in prominent fungal pathogens. In particular, a series of studies have revealed that members of group III HK, which occur in the highest number of fungal species and contain a unique N-terminus region consisting of multiple HAMP domain repeats, regulate morphogenesis and virulence in various human, plant and insect pathogenic fungi. This research field is further supported by recent shape-function studies providing clear correlation between structural properties and signalling states in group III HK. Since HK are absent in mammals, these represent interesting fungal target for the discovery of new antifungal drugs. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  16. Identification of a crucial histidine involved in metal transport activity in the Arabidopsis cation/H+ exchanger CAX1.

    PubMed

    Shigaki, Toshiro; Barkla, Bronwyn J; Miranda-Vergara, Maria Cristina; Zhao, Jian; Pantoja, Omar; Hirschi, Kendal D

    2005-08-26

    In plants, yeast, and bacteria, cation/H+ exchangers (CAXs) have been shown to translocate Ca2+ and other metal ions utilizing the H+ gradient. The best characterized of these related transporters is the plant vacuolar localized CAX1. We have used site-directed mutagenesis to assess the impact of altering the seven histidine residues to alanine within Arabidopsis CAX1. The mutants were expressed in a Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain that is sensitive to Ca2+ and other metals. By utilizing a yeast growth assay, the H338A mutant was the only mutation that appeared to alter Ca2+ transport activity. The CAX1 His338 residue is conserved among various CAX transporters and may be located within a filter for cation selection. We proceeded to mutate His338 to every other amino acid residue and utilized yeast growth assays to estimate the transport properties of the 19 CAX mutants. Expression of 16 of these His338 mutants could not rescue any of the metal sensitivities. However, expression of H338N, H338Q, and H338K allowed for some growth on media containing Ca2+. Most interestingly, H338N exhibited increased tolerance to Cd2+ and Zn2+. Endomembrane fractions from yeast cells were used to measure directly the transport of H338N. Although the H338N mutant demonstrated 25% of the wild type Ca2+/H+ transport, it showed an increase in transport for both Cd2+ and Zn2+ reflected in a decrease in the Km for these substrates. This study provides insights into the CAX cation filter and novel mechanisms by which metals may be partitioned across membranes.

  17. An Asymmetry-to-Symmetry Switch in Signal Transmission by the Histidine Kinase Receptor for TMAO

    PubMed Central

    Moore, Jason O.; Hendrickson, Wayne A.

    2012-01-01

    Summary The osmoregulator trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), commonplace in aquatic organisms, is used as the terminal electron acceptor for respiration in many bacterial species. The TMAO reductase (Tor) pathway for respiratory catalysis is controlled by a receptor system that comprises the TMAO-binding protein TorT, the sensor histidine kinase TorS and the response regulator TorR. Here we study the TorS/TorT sensor system to gain mechanistic insight into signaling by histidine kinase receptors. We determined crystal structures for complexes of TorS sensor domains with apo TorT and with TorT(TMAO); we characterized TorS sensor associations with TorT in solution; we analyzed the thermodynamics of TMAO binding to TorT-TorS complexes; and we analyzed in vivo responses to TMAO through the TorT/TorS/TorR system to test structure-inspired hypotheses. TorS-TorT(apo) is an asymmetric 2:2 complex that binds TMAO with negative cooperativity to form a symmetric active kinase. PMID:22483119

  18. An Asymmetry-to-Symmetry Switch in Signal Transmission by the Histidine Kinase Receptor for TMAO

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

    Moore, Jason O.; Hendrickson, Wayne A.

    2012-06-28

    The osmoregulator trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), commonplace in aquatic organisms, is used as the terminal electron acceptor for respiration in many bacterial species. The TMAO reductase (Tor) pathway for respiratory catalysis is controlled by a receptor system that comprises the TMAO-binding protein TorT, the sensor histidine kinase TorS, and the response regulator TorR. Here we study the TorS/TorT sensor system to gain mechanistic insight into signaling by histidine kinase receptors. We determined crystal structures for complexes of TorS sensor domains with apo TorT and with TorT (TMAO); we characterized TorS sensor associations with TorT in solution; we analyzed the thermodynamics of TMAOmore » binding to TorT-TorS complexes; and we analyzed in vivo responses to TMAO through the TorT/TorS/TorR system to test structure-inspired hypotheses. TorS-TorT(apo) is an asymmetric 2:2 complex that binds TMAO with negative cooperativity to form a symmetric active kinase.« less

  19. An asymmetry-to-symmetry switch in signal transmission by the histidine kinase receptor for TMAO.

    PubMed

    Moore, Jason O; Hendrickson, Wayne A

    2012-04-04

    The osmoregulator trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), commonplace in aquatic organisms, is used as the terminal electron acceptor for respiration in many bacterial species. The TMAO reductase (Tor) pathway for respiratory catalysis is controlled by a receptor system that comprises the TMAO-binding protein TorT, the sensor histidine kinase TorS, and the response regulator TorR. Here we study the TorS/TorT sensor system to gain mechanistic insight into signaling by histidine kinase receptors. We determined crystal structures for complexes of TorS sensor domains with apo TorT and with TorT (TMAO); we characterized TorS sensor associations with TorT in solution; we analyzed the thermodynamics of TMAO binding to TorT-TorS complexes; and we analyzed in vivo responses to TMAO through the TorT/TorS/TorR system to test structure-inspired hypotheses. TorS-TorT(apo) is an asymmetric 2:2 complex that binds TMAO with negative cooperativity to form a symmetric active kinase. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Characterization and proteomic analysis of the Pseudomonas sp. HK-6 xenB knockout mutant under RDX (hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine) stress.

    PubMed

    Lee, Bheong-Uk; Choi, Moon-Seop; Oh, Kye-Heon

    2015-01-01

    Pseudomonas sp. HK-6 is able to utilize RDX (hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine) as its sole nitrogen source. The role of the xenB gene, encoding xenobiotic reductase B, was investigated using HK-6 xenB knockout mutants. The xenB mutant degraded RDX to a level that was 10-fold less than that obtained with the wild-type HK-6 strain. After 60 days of culture with 25 or 50 μM RDX, no residual RDX was detected in the supernatants of the wild-type aerobically grown cultures, whereas approximately 90 % of the RDX remained in the xenB mutant cultures. The xenB mutant bacteria exhibited a 10(2)-10(4)-fold decrease in survival rate compared to the wild-type. The expression of DnaK and GroEL proteins, two typical stress shock proteins (SSPs), in the xenB mutant increased after immediate exposure to RDX, yet dramatically decreased after 4 h of exposure. In addition, DnaK and GroEL were more highly expressed in the cultures with 25 μM RDX in the medium but showed low expression in the cultures with 50 or 75 μM RDX. The expression levels of the dnaK and groEL genes measured by RT-qPCR were also much lower in the xenB genetic background. Analyses of the proteomes of the HK-6 and xenB mutant cells grown under conditions of RDX stress showed increased induction of several proteins, such as Alg8, alginate biosynthesis sensor histidine kinase, and OprH in the xenB mutants when compared to wild-type. However, many proteins, including two SSPs (DnaK and GroEL) and proteins involved in metabolism, exhibited lower expression levels in the xenB mutant than in the wild-type HK-6 strain. The xenB knockout mutation leads to reduced RDX degradation ability, which renders the mutant more sensitive to RDX stress and results in a lower survival rate and an altered proteomic profile under RDX stress.

  1. Group X hybrid histidine kinase Chk1 is dispensable for stress adaptation, host-pathogen interactions and virulence in the opportunistic yeast Candida guilliermondii.

    PubMed

    Navarro-Arias, María J; Dementhon, Karine; Defosse, Tatiana A; Foureau, Emilien; Courdavault, Vincent; Clastre, Marc; Le Gal, Solène; Nevez, Gilles; Le Govic, Yohann; Bouchara, Jean-Philippe; Giglioli-Guivarc'h, Nathalie; Noël, Thierry; Mora-Montes, Hector M; Papon, Nicolas

    2017-09-01

    Hybrid histidine kinases (HHKs) progressively emerge as prominent sensing proteins in the fungal kingdom and as ideal targets for future therapeutics. The group X HHK is of major interest, since it was demonstrated to play an important role in stress adaptation, host-pathogen interactions and virulence in some yeast and mold models, and particularly Chk1, that corresponds to the sole group X HHK in Candida albicans. In the present work, we investigated the role of Chk1 in the low-virulence species Candida guilliermondii, in order to gain insight into putative conservation of the role of group X HHK in opportunistic yeasts. We demonstrated that disruption of the corresponding gene CHK1 does not influence growth, stress tolerance, drug susceptibility, protein glycosylation or cell wall composition in C. guilliermondii. In addition, we showed that loss of CHK1 does not affect C. guilliermondii ability to interact with macrophages and to stimulate cytokine production by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Finally, the C. guilliermondii chk1 null mutant was found to be as virulent as the wild-type strain in the experimental model Galleria mellonella. Taken together, our results demonstrate that group X HHK function is not conserved in Candida species. Copyright © 2017 Institut Pasteur. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  2. The possible influence of L-histidine on the origin of the first peptides on the primordial Earth.

    PubMed

    Reiner, Hannes; Plankensteiner, Kristof; Fitz, Daniel; Rode, Bernd Michael

    2006-06-01

    One of the most unsettled problems of prebiotic evolution and the origin of life is the explanation why one enantiomeric form of biomolecules prevailed. In the experiments presented in this paper, the influence of L-histidine on the peptide formation in the Salt-Induced Peptide Formation (SIPF) reaction of the enantiomeric forms of valine, proline, serine, lysine, and tryptophan, and the catalytic effects in this first step toward the first building blocks of proteins on the primordial earth were investigated. In the majority of the produced dipeptides, a remarkable increase of yields was shown, and the preference of the L-amino acids in the peptide formation in most cases cannot be denied. In summary, our data provide further experimental evidence for the plausibility of the SIPF reaction and point at a possible important role of L-histidine in the chemical evolution on the primordial Earth.

  3. A Duo of Potassium-Responsive Histidine Kinases Govern the Multicellular Destiny of Bacillus subtilis

    PubMed Central

    de Oña, Paula; Kunert, Maritta; Leñini, Cecilia; Gallegos-Monterrosa, Ramses; Mhatre, Eisha; Vileta, Darío; Hölscher, Theresa; Kuipers, Oscar P.

    2015-01-01

    ABSTRACT Multicellular biofilm formation and surface motility are bacterial behaviors considered mutually exclusive. However, the basic decision to move over or stay attached to a surface is poorly understood. Here, we discover that in Bacillus subtilis, the key root biofilm-controlling transcription factor Spo0A~Pi (phosphorylated Spo0A) governs the flagellum-independent mechanism of social sliding motility. A Spo0A-deficient strain was totally unable to slide and colonize plant roots, evidencing the important role that sliding might play in natural settings. Microarray experiments plus subsequent genetic characterization showed that the machineries of sliding and biofilm formation share the same main components (i.e., surfactin, the hydrophobin BslA, exopolysaccharide, and de novo-formed fatty acids). Sliding proficiency was transduced by the Spo0A-phosphorelay histidine kinases KinB and KinC. We discovered that potassium, a previously known inhibitor of KinC-dependent biofilm formation, is the specific sliding-activating signal through a thus-far-unnoticed cytosolic domain of KinB, which resembles the selectivity filter sequence of potassium channels. The differential expression of the Spo0A~Pi reporter abrB gene and the different levels of the constitutively active form of Spo0A, Sad67, in Δspo0A cells grown in optimized media that simultaneously stimulate motile and sessile behaviors uncover the spatiotemporal response of KinB and KinC to potassium and the gradual increase in Spo0A~Pi that orchestrates the sequential activation of sliding, followed by sessile biofilm formation and finally sporulation in the same population. Overall, these results provide insights into how multicellular behaviors formerly believed to be antagonistic are coordinately activated in benefit of the bacterium and its interaction with the host. PMID:26152584

  4. Glutamine and alanyl-glutamine dipeptide reduce mesenteric plasma extravasation, leukocyte adhesion and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) release during experimental endotoxemia.

    PubMed

    Scheibe, R; Schade, M; Grundling, M; Pavlovic, D; Starke, K; Wendt, M; Retter, S; Murphy, M; Suchner, U; Spassov, A; Gedrange, T; Lehmann, Ch

    2009-12-01

    Glutamine (GLN) appears to be an essential nutrient during organism development and critical illness. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of GLN and its generic preparation alanyl-glutamine-dipeptide (DIP) on the microcirculation in endotoxemia in rats and its effects on tonus or aortal rings in vitro. Male Lewis rats (n=40) were separated in 4 groups. Group 1 (CON) served as healthy control group while the other groups received an endotoxin bolus i.v. (5 mg/kg lipopolysaccharide, LPS i.v.). In group 3 (LPS+GLN) 0.75 g/kg-1 GLN i.v. before LPS challenge was administered. In group 4 (LPS+DIP) DIP containing 0.75 g/kg GLN was given. Leukocyte-endothelial interactions and mesenteric plasma extravasation were determined at 0, 1 and 2 hours during the experiment by intravital fluorescence microscopy (IVM). Cytokine release (TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, IL-6, IL-10) was measured by ELISA. GLN treatment reduced leukocyte adherence (-49.7% vs. LPS group, p<0.05) and plasma extravasation (-12.3% vs. LPS group, p<0.05) significantly during endotoxemia compared to untreated LPS animals. In group 4 (DIP+LPS), a decrease of leukocyte adherence (-56.0%) and mesenteric plasma extravasation (-18.8% vs. LPS group, p<0.05) was also found. TNF-alpha levels were reduced in both GLN and DIP (p<0.05). In vitro experiments demonstrated that glutamine agents could attenuate the response to contracting agents in presence of the vascular endothelium, implying nitric oxide pathway. In vivo, GLN as well as DIP pre-treatment diminish the detrimental impact of endotoxemia on the mesenteric microcirculation and the TNF-alpha release, the effects whose clinical importance should be further examined.

  5. Catalytic effects of histidine enantiomers and glycine on the formation of dileucine and dimethionine in the salt-induced peptide formation reaction.

    PubMed

    Li, Feng; Fitz, Daniel; Fraser, Donald G; Rode, Bernd M

    2010-01-01

    The salt-induced peptide formation (SIPF) reaction takes place readily under mild reaction conditions and proceeds via a copper complex. Its ease of reaction and the universality for prebiotic scenarios add weights to the arguments in favour of the importance of peptide and proteins in the tug of war with the RNA world hypothesis. In addition, the SIPF reaction has a preference for L-form amino acids in dipeptide formation, casting light on the puzzle of biohomochirality, especially for the amino acids with aliphatic side chains. A detailed investigation on the behaviour of aliphatic leucine in the SIPF reaction is presented in this paper, including the catalytic effects of glycine, L- and D-histidine as well as the stereoselectivity under all the reaction conditions above. The results show a relatively low reactivity and stereoselectivity of leucine in the SIPF reaction, while both glycine and histidine enantiomers remarkably increase the yields of dileucine by factors up to 40. Moreover, a comparative study of the effectiveness of L- and D-histidine in catalysing the formation of dimethionine was also carried out and extends the scope of mutual catalysis by amino acid enantiomers in the SIPF reaction.

  6. Association of Takayasu arteritis with HLA-B 67:01 and two amino acids in HLA-B protein.

    PubMed

    Terao, Chikashi; Yoshifuji, Hajime; Ohmura, Koichiro; Murakami, Kosaku; Kawabata, Daisuke; Yurugi, Kimiko; Tazaki, Junichi; Kinoshita, Hideyuki; Kimura, Akinori; Akizuki, Masashi; Kawaguchi, Yasushi; Yamanaka, Hisashi; Miura, Yasuo; Maekawa, Taira; Saji, Hiroo; Mimori, Tsuneyo; Matsuda, Fumihiko

    2013-10-01

    Takayasu arteritis (TAK) is a rare autoimmune arteritis that affects large arteries. Although the association between TAK and HLA-B 52:01 is established, the other susceptibility HLA-B alleles are not fully known. We performed genetic association studies to determine independent HLA-B susceptibility alleles other than HLA-B 52:01 and to identify important amino acids of HLA-B protein in TAK susceptibility. One hundred patients with TAK and 1000 unrelated healthy controls were genotyped for HLA-B alleles in the first set, followed by a replication set containing 73 patients with TAK and 1000 controls to compare the frequencies of HLA-B alleles. Step-up logistic regression analysis was performed to identify susceptibility amino acids of HLA-B protein. Strong associations of susceptibility to TAK with HLA-B 52:01 and HLA-B 67:01 were observed (P = 1.0 × 10(-16) and 9.5 × 10(-6), respectively). An independent susceptibility effect of HLA-B 67:01 from HLA-B 52:01 was also detected (P = 1.8 × 10(-7)). Amino acid residues of histidine at position 171 and phenylalanine at position 67, both of which are located in antigen binding grooves of the HLA-B protein, were associated with TAK susceptibility (P ≤ 3.8 × 10(-5)) with a significant difference from other amino acid variations (ΔAIC ≥ 9.65). HLA-B 67:01 is associated with TAK independently from HLA-B 52:01. Two amino acids in HLA-B protein are strongly associated with TAK susceptibility.

  7. Chromosomal flhB1 gene of the alphaproteobacterium Azospirillum brasilense Sp245 is essential for correct assembly of both constitutive polar flagellum and inducible lateral flagella.

    PubMed

    Filip'echeva, Yulia; Shelud'ko, Andrei; Prilipov, Alexei; Telesheva, Elizaveta; Mokeev, Dmitry; Burov, Andrei; Petrova, Lilia; Katsy, Elena

    2018-03-01

    Azospirillum brasilense has the ability of swimming and swarming motility owing to the work of a constitutive polar flagellum and inducible lateral flagella, respectively. The interplay between these flagellar systems is poorly understood. One of the key elements of the flagellar export apparatus is the protein FlhB. Two predicted flhB genes are present in the genome of A. brasilense Sp245 (accession nos. HE577327-HE577333). Experimental evidence obtained here indicates that the chromosomal coding sequence (CDS) AZOBR_150177 (flhB1) of Sp245 is essential for the production of both types of flagella. In an flhB1:: Omegon-Km mutant, Sp245.1063, defects in polar and lateral flagellar assembly and motility were complemented by expressing the wild-type flhB1 gene from plasmid pRK415. It was found that Sp245.1063 lost the capacity for slight but statistically significant decrease in mean cell length in response to transfer from solid to liquid media, and vice versa; in the complemented mutant, this capacity was restored. It was also shown that after the acquisition of the pRK415-harbored downstream CDS AZOBR_150176, cells of Sp245 and Sp245.1063 ceased to elongate on solid media. These initial data suggest that the AZOBR_150176-encoded putative multisensory hybrid sensor histidine kinase-response regulator, in concert with FlhB1, plays a role in morphological response of azospirilla to changes in the hardness of a milieu.

  8. Crystal structure of Bacillus anthracis virulence regulator AtxA and effects of phosphorylated histidines on multimerization and activity

    DOE PAGES

    Hammerstrom, Troy G.; Horton, Lori B.; Swick, Michelle C.; ...

    2014-12-30

    The Bacillus anthracis virulence regulator AtxA controls transcription of the anthrax toxin genes and capsule biosynthesis operon. AtxA activity is elevated during growth in media containing glucose and CO 2/bicarbonate, and there is a positive correlation between the CO 2/bicarbonate signal, AtxA activity, and homomultimerization. AtxA activity is also affected by phosphorylation at specific histidines. We show that AtxA crystallizes as a dimer. Distinct folds associated with predicted DNA-binding domains (HTH1 and HTH2) and phosphoenolpyruvate: carbohydrate phosphotransferase system-regulated domains (PRD1 and PRD2) are apparent. We tested AtxA variants containing single and double phosphomimetic (His → Asp) and phosphoablative (His →more » Ala) amino acid changes for activity in B. anthracis cultures and for protein-protein interactions in cell lysates. Reduced activity of AtxA H199A, lack of multimerization and activity of AtxAH379D variants, and predicted structural changes associated with phosphorylation support a model for control of AtxA function. We propose that (1) in the AtxA dimer, phosphorylation of H199 in PRD1 affects HTH2 positioning, influencing DNA-binding; and (2) phosphorylation of H379 in PRD2 disrupts dimer formation. In conclusion, the AtxA structure is the first reported high-resolution full-length structure of a PRD-containing regulator and can serve as a model for proteins of this family, especially those that link virulence to bacterial metabolism.« less

  9. Crystal structure of Bacillus anthracis virulence regulator AtxA and effects of phosphorylated histidines on multimerization and activity

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

    Hammerstrom, Troy G.; Horton, Lori B.; Swick, Michelle C.

    The Bacillus anthracis virulence regulator AtxA controls transcription of the anthrax toxin genes and capsule biosynthesis operon. AtxA activity is elevated during growth in media containing glucose and CO 2/bicarbonate, and there is a positive correlation between the CO 2/bicarbonate signal, AtxA activity, and homomultimerization. AtxA activity is also affected by phosphorylation at specific histidines. We show that AtxA crystallizes as a dimer. Distinct folds associated with predicted DNA-binding domains (HTH1 and HTH2) and phosphoenolpyruvate: carbohydrate phosphotransferase system-regulated domains (PRD1 and PRD2) are apparent. We tested AtxA variants containing single and double phosphomimetic (His → Asp) and phosphoablative (His →more » Ala) amino acid changes for activity in B. anthracis cultures and for protein-protein interactions in cell lysates. Reduced activity of AtxA H199A, lack of multimerization and activity of AtxAH379D variants, and predicted structural changes associated with phosphorylation support a model for control of AtxA function. We propose that (1) in the AtxA dimer, phosphorylation of H199 in PRD1 affects HTH2 positioning, influencing DNA-binding; and (2) phosphorylation of H379 in PRD2 disrupts dimer formation. In conclusion, the AtxA structure is the first reported high-resolution full-length structure of a PRD-containing regulator and can serve as a model for proteins of this family, especially those that link virulence to bacterial metabolism.« less

  10. Crystal structure of Bacillus anthracis virulence regulator AtxA and effects of phosphorylated histidines on multimerization and activity

    PubMed Central

    Hammerstrom, Troy G.; Horton, Lori B.; Swick, Michelle C.; Joachimiak, Andrzej; Osipiuk, Jerzy; Koehler, Theresa M.

    2015-01-01

    Summary The Bacillus anthracis virulence regulator AtxA controls transcription of the anthrax toxin genes and capsule biosynthesis operon. AtxA activity is elevated during growth in media containing glucose and CO2/bicarbonate, and there is a positive correlation between the CO2/bicarbonate signal, AtxA activity, and homomultimerization. AtxA activity is also affected by phosphorylation at specific histidines. We show that AtxA crystallizes as a dimer. Distinct folds associated with predicted DNA-binding domains (HTH1 and HTH2) and phosphoenolpyruvate: carbohydrate phosphotransferase system-regulated domains (PRD1 and PRD2) are apparent. We tested AtxA variants containing single and double phosphomimetic (His → Asp) and phosphoablative (His → Ala) amino acid changes for activity in B. anthracis cultures and for protein-protein interactions in cell lysates. Reduced activity of AtxA H199A, lack of multimerization and activity of AtxAH379D variants, and predicted structural changes associated with phosphorylation support a model for control of AtxA function. We propose that (1) in the AtxA dimer, phosphorylation of H199 in PRD1 affects HTH2 positioning, influencing DNA-binding; and (2) phosphorylation of H379 in PRD2 disrupts dimer formation. The AtxA structure is the first reported high-resolution full-length structure of a PRD-containing regulator and can serve as a model for proteins of this family, especially those that link virulence to bacterial metabolism. PMID:25402841

  11. Histidine kinases mediate differentiation, stress response, and pathogenicity in Magnaporthe oryzae

    PubMed Central

    Jacob, Stefan; Foster, Andrew J; Yemelin, Alexander; Thines, Eckhard

    2014-01-01

    The aim of this study is a functional characterization of 10 putative histidine kinases (HIKs)-encoding genes in the phytopathogenic fungus Magnaporthe oryzae. Two HIKs were found to be required for pathogenicity in the fungus. It was found that the mutant strains ΔMohik5 and ΔMohik8 show abnormal conidial morphology and furthermore ΔMohik5 is unable to form appressoria. Both HIKs MoHik5p and MoHik8p appear to be essential for pathogenicity since the mutants fail to infect rice plants. MoSln1p and MoHik1p were previously reported to be components of the HOG pathway in M. oryzae. The ΔMosln1 mutant is more susceptible to salt stress compared to ΔMohik1, whereas ΔMohik1 appears to be stronger affected by osmotic or sugar stress. In contrast to yeast, the HOG signaling cascade in phytopathogenic fungi apparently comprises more elements. Furthermore, vegetative growth of the mutants ΔMohik5 and ΔMohik9 was found to be sensitive to hypoxia-inducing NaNO2-treatment. Additionally, it was monitored that NaNO2-treatment resulted in MoHog1p phosphorylation. As a consequence we assume a first simplified model for hypoxia signaling in M. oryzae including the HOG pathway and the HIKs MoHik5p and MoHik9p. PMID:25103193

  12. A highly active and negatively charged Streptococcus pyogenes lysin with a rare D-alanyl-L-alanine endopeptidase activity protects mice against streptococcal bacteremia.

    PubMed

    Lood, Rolf; Raz, Assaf; Molina, Henrik; Euler, Chad W; Fischetti, Vincent A

    2014-06-01

    Bacteriophage endolysins have shown great efficacy in killing Gram-positive bacteria. PlyC, a group C streptococcal phage lysin, represents the most efficient lysin characterized to date, with a remarkably high specificity against different streptococcal species, including the important pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes. However, PlyC is a unique lysin, in terms of both its high activity and structure (two distinct subunits). We sought to discover and characterize a phage lysin active against S. pyogenes with an endolysin architecture distinct from that of PlyC to determine if it relies on the same mechanism of action as PlyC. In this study, we identified and characterized an endolysin, termed PlyPy (phage lysin from S. pyogenes), from a prophage infecting S. pyogenes. By in silico analysis, PlyPy was found to have a molecular mass of 27.8 kDa and a pI of 4.16. It was active against a majority of group A streptococci and displayed high levels of activity as well as binding specificity against group B and C streptococci, while it was less efficient against other streptococcal species. PlyPy showed the highest activity at neutral pH in the presence of calcium and NaCl. Surprisingly, its activity was not affected by the presence of the group A-specific carbohydrate, while the activity of PlyC was partly inhibited. Additionally, PlyPy was active in vivo and could rescue mice from systemic bacteremia. Finally, we developed a novel method to determine the peptidoglycan bond cleaved by lysins and concluded that PlyPy exhibits a rare d-alanyl-l-alanine endopeptidase activity. PlyPy thus represents the first lysin characterized from Streptococcus pyogenes and has a mechanism of action distinct from that of PlyC. Copyright © 2014, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

  13. A Highly Active and Negatively Charged Streptococcus pyogenes Lysin with a Rare d-Alanyl-l-Alanine Endopeptidase Activity Protects Mice against Streptococcal Bacteremia

    PubMed Central

    Lood, Rolf; Raz, Assaf; Molina, Henrik; Euler, Chad W.

    2014-01-01

    Bacteriophage endolysins have shown great efficacy in killing Gram-positive bacteria. PlyC, a group C streptococcal phage lysin, represents the most efficient lysin characterized to date, with a remarkably high specificity against different streptococcal species, including the important pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes. However, PlyC is a unique lysin, in terms of both its high activity and structure (two distinct subunits). We sought to discover and characterize a phage lysin active against S. pyogenes with an endolysin architecture distinct from that of PlyC to determine if it relies on the same mechanism of action as PlyC. In this study, we identified and characterized an endolysin, termed PlyPy (phage lysin from S. pyogenes), from a prophage infecting S. pyogenes. By in silico analysis, PlyPy was found to have a molecular mass of 27.8 kDa and a pI of 4.16. It was active against a majority of group A streptococci and displayed high levels of activity as well as binding specificity against group B and C streptococci, while it was less efficient against other streptococcal species. PlyPy showed the highest activity at neutral pH in the presence of calcium and NaCl. Surprisingly, its activity was not affected by the presence of the group A-specific carbohydrate, while the activity of PlyC was partly inhibited. Additionally, PlyPy was active in vivo and could rescue mice from systemic bacteremia. Finally, we developed a novel method to determine the peptidoglycan bond cleaved by lysins and concluded that PlyPy exhibits a rare d-alanyl-l-alanine endopeptidase activity. PlyPy thus represents the first lysin characterized from Streptococcus pyogenes and has a mechanism of action distinct from that of PlyC. PMID:24637688

  14. Evidence for the η(b)(2S) and observation of h(b)(1P)→η(b)(1S)γ and h(b)(2P)→η(b)(1S)γ.

    PubMed

    Mizuk, R; Asner, D M; Bondar, A; Pedlar, T K; Adachi, I; Aihara, H; Arinstein, K; Aulchenko, V; Aushev, T; Aziz, T; Bakich, A M; Bay, A; Belous, K; Bhardwaj, V; Bhuyan, B; Bischofberger, M; Bonvicini, G; Bozek, A; Bračko, M; Brodzicka, J; Browder, T E; Chekelian, V; Chen, A; Chen, P; Cheon, B G; Chilikin, K; Chistov, R; Cho, I-S; Cho, K; Choi, S-K; Choi, Y; Dalseno, J; Danilov, M; Doležal, Z; Drásal, Z; Drutskoy, A; Eidelman, S; Epifanov, D; Fast, J E; Gaur, V; Gabyshev, N; Garmash, A; Golob, B; Haba, J; Hara, T; Hayasaka, K; Hayashii, H; Horii, Y; Hoshi, Y; Hou, W-S; Hsiung, Y B; Hyun, H J; Iijima, T; Ishikawa, A; Itoh, R; Iwabuchi, M; Iwasaki, Y; Iwashita, T; Jaegle, I; Julius, T; Kang, J H; Kapusta, P; Kawasaki, T; Kim, H J; Kim, H O; Kim, J H; Kim, K T; Kim, M J; Kim, Y J; Kinoshita, K; Ko, B R; Koblitz, S; Kodyš, P; Korpar, S; Kouzes, R T; Križan, P; Krokovny, P; Kuhr, T; Kumita, T; Kuzmin, A; Kwon, Y-J; Lange, J S; Lee, S-H; Li, J; Libby, J; Liu, C; Liu, Y; Liu, Z Q; Liventsev, D; Louvot, R; Matvienko, D; McOnie, S; Miyabayashi, K; Miyata, H; Mohanty, G B; Mohapatra, D; Moll, A; Muramatsu, N; Mussa, R; Nakao, M; Natkaniec, Z; Ng, C; Nishida, S; Nishimura, K; Nitoh, O; Nozaki, T; Ohshima, T; Okuno, S; Olsen, S L; Onuki, Y; Pakhlov, P; Pakhlova, G; Park, C W; Park, H; Pestotnik, R; Petrič, M; Piilonen, L E; Poluektov, A; Röhrken, M; Sakai, Y; Sandilya, S; Santel, D; Sanuki, T; Sato, Y; Schneider, O; Schwanda, C; Senyo, K; Seon, O; Sevior, M E; Shapkin, M; Shen, C P; Shibata, T-A; Shiu, J-G; Shwartz, B; Sibidanov, A; Simon, F; Smerkol, P; Sohn, Y-S; Sokolov, A; Solovieva, E; Stanič, S; Starič, M; Sumihama, M; Sumiyoshi, T; Tanida, K; Tatishvili, G; Teramoto, Y; Tikhomirov, I; Trabelsi, K; Tsuboyama, T; Uchida, M; Uehara, S; Uglov, T; Unno, Y; Uno, S; Vanhoefer, P; Varner, G; Varvell, K E; Vinokurova, A; Vorobyev, V; Wang, C H; Wang, M-Z; Wang, P; Wang, X L; Watanabe, M; Watanabe, Y; Williams, K M; Won, E; Yabsley, B D; Yamaoka, J; Yamashita, Y; Yuan, C Z; Zhang, Z P; Zhilich, V

    2012-12-07

    We report the first evidence for the η(b)(2S) using the h(b)(2P)→η(b)(2S)γ transition and the first observation of the h(b)(1P)→η(b)(1S)γ and h(b)(2P)→η(b)(1S)γ transitions. The mass and width of the η(b)(1S) and η(b)(2S) are measured to be m(η(b)(1S))=(9402.4±1.5±1.8) MeV/c(2), m(η(b)(2S))=(9999.0±3.5(-1.9)(+2.8)) MeV/c(2), and Γ(η(b)(1S))=(10.8(-3.7-2.0)(+4.0+4.5)) MeV. We also update the h(b)(1P) and h(b)(2P) mass measurements. We use a 133.4 fb(-1) data sample collected at energies near the Υ(5S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e(+)e(-) collider.

  15. Structure of the sporulation histidine kinase inhibitor Sda from Bacillus subtilis and insights into its solution state

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

    Jacques, David A.; Streamer, Margaret; Rowland, Susan L.

    2009-09-02

    The crystal structure of the DNA-damage checkpoint inhibitor of sporulation, Sda, from Bacillus subtilis, has been solved by the MAD technique using selenomethionine-substituted protein. The structure closely resembles that previously solved by NMR, as well as the structure of a homologue from Geobacillus stearothermophilus solved in complex with the histidine kinase KinB. The structure contains three molecules in the asymmetric unit. The unusual trimeric arrangement, which lacks simple internal symmetry, appears to be preserved in solution based on an essentially ideal fit to previously acquired scattering data for Sda in solution. This interpretation contradicts previous findings that Sda was monomericmore » or dimeric in solution. This study demonstrates the difficulties that can be associated with the characterization of small proteins and the value of combining multiple biophysical techniques. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding the physical principles behind these techniques and therefore their limitations.« less

  16. Transition-metal chromophore as a new, sensitive spectroscopic tag for proteins. Selective covalent labeling of histidine residues in cytochromes c with chloro(2,2':6',2''-terpyridine)platinum(II) chloride

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

    Ratilla, E.M.A.; Brothers, H.M. II; Kostic, N.M.

    1987-07-22

    Reactivity and selectivity of Pt(trpy)Cl/sup +/ toward proteins are studied with cytochromes c from horse and tuna as examples. The new transition-metal reagent is specific for histidine residues at pH 5. The reaction, facile one-step displacement of the Cl/sup -/ ligand by imidazole, produces good yield. The binding sites, His 26 and His 33 in the horse protein and His 26 in the tuna protein, are identified by UV-vis spectrophotometry and by peptide-mapping experiments. Model complexes with imidazole, histidine, histidine derivatives, and histidine-containing peptides are prepared and characterized. The covalently attached Pt(trpy)/sup 2 +/ labels allow easy separation of themore » protein derivatives by cation-exchange chromatography. The labels do not perturb the conformation and reduction potential of cytochrome c, as shown by UV-vis spectrophotometry, cyclic voltammetry, differential-pulse voltammetry, EPR spectroscopy, and /sup 1/H NMR spectroscopy. The selectivity of Pt(trpy)Cl/sup +/ is entirely opposite from that of PtCl/sub 4//sup 2 -/ although both of them are platinum(II)-chloro complexes. Owing to an interplay between the steric and electronic effects of the terpyridyl ligand, the new reagent is unreactive toward methionine (a thio ether) and cystine (a disulfide), which are otherwise highly nucleophilic ligands, but very reactive toward imidazole, which is otherwise a relatively weak ligand. Unusual and useful selectivity of preformed transition-metal complexes toward proteins evidently can be achieved by a judicious choice of ancillary ligands.« less

  17. Systems responses of rats to aflatoxin B1 exposure revealed with metabonomic changes in multiple biological matrices.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Limin; Ye, Yangfang; An, Yanpeng; Tian, Yuan; Wang, Yulan; Tang, Huiru

    2011-02-04

    Exposure to aflatoxins causes liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma posing a significant health risk for human populations and livestock. To understand the mammalian systems responses to aflatoxin-B1 (AFB1) exposure, we analyzed the AFB1-induced metabonomic changes in multiple biological matrices (plasma, urine, and liver) of rats using (1)H NMR spectroscopy together with clinical biochemistry and histopathologic assessments. We found that AFB1 exposure caused significant elevation of glucose, amino acids, and choline metabolites (choline, phosphocholine, and glycerophosphocholine) in plasma but reduction of plasma lipids. AFB1 also induced elevation of liver lipids, amino acids (tyrosine, histidine, phenylalanine, leucine, isoleucine, and valine), choline, and nucleic acid metabolites (inosine, adenosine, and uridine) together with reduction of hepatic glycogen and glucose. AFB1 further caused decreases in urinary TCA cycle intermediates (2-oxoglutarate and citrate) and elevation of gut microbiota cometabolites (phenylacetylglycine and hippurate). These indicated that AFB1 exposure caused hepatic steatosis accompanied with widespread metabolic changes including lipid and cell membrane metabolisms, protein biosynthesis, glycolysis, TCA cycle, and gut microbiota functions. This implied that AFB1 exposure probably caused oxidative-stress-mediated impairments of mitochondria functions. These findings provide an overview of biochemical consequences of AFB1 exposure and comprehensive insights into the metabolic aspects of AFB1-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

  18. A Rhizobium radiobacter Histidine Kinase Can Employ Both Boolean AND and OR Logic Gates to Initiate Pathogenesis.

    PubMed

    Fang, Fang; Lin, Yi-Han; Pierce, B Daniel; Lynn, David G

    2015-10-12

    The molecular logic gates that regulate gene circuits are necessarily intricate and highly regulated, particularly in the critical commitments necessary for pathogenesis. We now report simple AND and OR logic gates to be accessible within a single protein receptor. Pathogenesis by the bacterium Rhizobium radiobacter is mediated by a single histidine kinase, VirA, which processes multiple small molecule host signals (phenol and sugar). Mutagenesis analyses converged on a single signal integration node, and finer functional analyses revealed that a single residue could switch VirA from a functional AND logic gate to an OR gate where each of two signals activate independently. Host range preferences among natural strains of R. radiobacter correlate with these gate logic strategies. Although the precise mechanism for the signal integration node requires further analyses, long-range signal transmission through this histidine kinase can now be exploited for synthetic signaling circuits. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  19. 18 CFR 1b.1 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Definitions. 1b.1 Section 1b.1 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.1 Definitions. For purposes of this part— (a...

  20. 18 CFR 1b.1 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Definitions. 1b.1 Section 1b.1 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.1 Definitions. For purposes of this part— (a...

  1. 18 CFR 1b.1 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Definitions. 1b.1 Section 1b.1 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.1 Definitions. For purposes of this part— (a...

  2. 18 CFR 1b.1 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Definitions. 1b.1 Section 1b.1 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.1 Definitions. For purposes of this part— (a...

  3. Chromium picolinate and chromium histidinate protects against renal dysfunction by modulation of NF-κB pathway in high-fat diet fed and Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

    PubMed

    Selcuk, Mustafa Yavuz; Aygen, Bilge; Dogukan, Ayhan; Tuzcu, Zeynep; Akdemir, Fatih; Komorowski, James R; Atalay, Mustafa; Sahin, Kazim

    2012-04-08

    Diabetic nephropathy is one of major complications of diabetes mellitus. Although chromium is an essential element for carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, its effects on diabetic nephropathy are not well understood. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of chromium picolinate (CrPic) and chromium histidinate (CrHis) on nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and nuclear factor-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) pathway in the rat kidney. Male Wistar rats were divided into six groups. Group I received a standard diet (8% fat) and served as a control; Group II was fed with a standard diet and received CrPic; Group III was fed with a standard diet and received CrHis; Group IV received a high fat diet (HFD, 40% fat) for 2 weeks and then were injected with streptozotocin (STZ) (HFD/STZ); Group V was treated as group IV (HFD/STZ) but supplemented with CrPic for 12 weeks. Group VI was treated as group IV (HFD/STZ) but supplemented with CrHis. The increased NF-κβ p65 in the HFD/STZ group was inhibited by CrPic and CrHis supplementation (P < 0.05). In STZ-treated rats, a significant decrease in levels of nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor, alpha (IκBα) was found in kidney tissues when compared to control rats (P < 0.05). A significant increase in the levels of IκBα was observed in CrPic- and CrHis-treated rats when compared with STZ-treated rats. Renal Nrf2 levels were significantly decreased in diabetic rats compared with the control rats. There was a higher tendency for increase of kidney Nrf2 level and decrease in kidney NFκBp65 levels and 4- hydroxyl nonenal (4-HNE) protein adducts (P < 0.05) in diabetic rats. Our result show that in kidney tissue CrHis/CrPic increases Nrf2 level, parallelly decreases NF-κB and partially restores IκBα levels in HFD/STZ group, suggesting that CrPic and CrHis may play a role in antioxidant defense system via the Nrf2 pathway by reducing inflammation through NF-κβ p65 inhibition

  4. Transformation of Candida albicans with a synthetic hygromycin B resistance gene.

    PubMed

    Basso, Luiz R; Bartiss, Ann; Mao, Yuxin; Gast, Charles E; Coelho, Paulo S R; Snyder, Michael; Wong, Brian

    2010-12-01

    Synthetic genes that confer resistance to the antibiotic nourseothricin in the pathogenic fungus Candida albicans are available, but genes conferring resistance to other antibiotics are not. We found that multiple C. albicans strains were inhibited by hygromycin B, so we designed a 1026 bp gene (CaHygB) that encodes Escherichia coli hygromycin B phosphotransferase with C. albicans codons. CaHygB conferred hygromycin B resistance in C. albicans transformed with ars2-containing plasmids or single-copy integrating vectors. Since CaHygB did not confer nourseothricin resistance and since the nourseothricin resistance marker SAT-1 did not confer hygromycin B resistance, we reasoned that these two markers could be used for homologous gene disruptions in wild-type C. albicans. We used PCR to fuse CaHygB or SAT-1 to approximately 1 kb of 5' and 3' noncoding DNA from C. albicans ARG4, HIS1 and LEU2, and introduced the resulting amplicons into six wild-type C. albicans strains. Homologous targeting frequencies were approximately 50-70%, and disruption of ARG4, HIS1 and LEU2 alleles was verified by the respective transformants' inabilities to grow without arginine, histidine and leucine. CaHygB should be a useful tool for genetic manipulation of different C. albicans strains, including clinical isolates. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  5. Biophysical Characterization and Thermal Stability of Pneumococcal Histidine Triad Protein D in the Presence of Zinc and Manganese.

    PubMed

    Ausar, Salvador F; Jayasundara, Kavisha; Akawi, Lamees; Roque, Cristopher; Sheung, Anthony; Hu, Jian; Kirkitadze, Marina; Rahman, Nausheen

    2017-10-01

    The pneumococcal histidine triad protein D (PhtD) is believed to play a central role in pneumococcal metal ion homeostasis and has been proposed as a promising vaccine candidate against pneumococcal disease. To investigate for potential stabilizers, a panel of physiologically relevant metals was screened using the thermal shift assay and it was found that only Zn 2+ and Mn 2+ were able to increase PhtD melting temperature. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis revealed a sequential unfolding of PhtD and the presence of at least 3 independent folding domains that can be stabilized by Zn 2+ and Mn 2+ . UV spectroscopy and fluorescence quenching studies showed significant Zn 2+ -induced tertiary structure changes in PhtD characterized by decreased accessibility of inner tryptophan residues to the aqueous solvent. Isothermal titration calorimetry data show no apparent binding to Mn 2+ but revealed a Zn 2+ :PhtD exothermic interaction stoichiometry of 3:1 with strong enthalpic contribution, suggesting that 3 of the 5 histidine triads are accessible binding sites for Zn 2+ . Only Zn +2 , but not Mn +2 , was able to increase the thermal stability of PhtD in the presence of aluminum hydroxide adjuvant, making it a promising stabilizer excipient candidate in vaccine products containing PhtD. Copyright © 2017 American Pharmacists Association®. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Crystal structure of Bacillus anthracis virulence regulator AtxA and effects of phosphorylated histidines on multimerization and activity.

    PubMed

    Hammerstrom, Troy G; Horton, Lori B; Swick, Michelle C; Joachimiak, Andrzej; Osipiuk, Jerzy; Koehler, Theresa M

    2015-02-01

    The Bacillus anthracis virulence regulator AtxA controls transcription of the anthrax toxin genes and capsule biosynthetic operon. AtxA activity is elevated during growth in media containing glucose and CO(2)/bicarbonate, and there is a positive correlation between the CO(2)/bicarbonate signal, AtxA activity and homomultimerization. AtxA activity is also affected by phosphorylation at specific histidines. We show that AtxA crystallizes as a dimer. Distinct folds associated with predicted DNA-binding domains (HTH1 and HTH2) and phosphoenolpyruvate: carbohydrate phosphotransferase system-regulated domains (PRD1 and PRD2) are apparent. We tested AtxA variants containing single and double phosphomimetic (His→Asp) and phosphoablative (His→Ala) amino acid changes for activity in B. anthracis cultures and for protein-protein interactions in cell lysates. Reduced activity of AtxA H199A, lack of multimerization and activity of AtxAH379D variants, and predicted structural changes associated with phosphorylation support a model for control of AtxA function. We propose that (i) in the AtxA dimer, phosphorylation of H199 in PRD1 affects HTH2 positioning, influencing DNA-binding; and (ii) phosphorylation of H379 in PRD2 disrupts dimer formation. The AtxA structure is the first reported high-resolution full-length structure of a PRD-containing regulator, and can serve as a model for proteins of this family, especially those that link virulence to bacterial metabolism. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  7. Analyses of the Large Subunit Histidine-Rich Motif Expose an Alternative Proton Transfer Pathway in [NiFe] Hydrogenases

    PubMed Central

    Szőri-Dorogházi, Emma; Maróti, Gergely; Szőri, Milán; Nyilasi, Andrea; Rákhely, Gábor; Kovács, Kornél L.

    2012-01-01

    A highly conserved histidine-rich region with unknown function was recognized in the large subunit of [NiFe] hydrogenases. The HxHxxHxxHxH sequence occurs in most membrane-bound hydrogenases, but only two of these histidines are present in the cytoplasmic ones. Site-directed mutagenesis of the His-rich region of the T. roseopersicina membrane-attached Hyn hydrogenase disclosed that the enzyme activity was significantly affected only by the replacement of the His104 residue. Computational analysis of the hydrogen bond network in the large subunits indicated that the second histidine of this motif might be a component of a proton transfer pathway including Arg487, Asp103, His104 and Glu436. Substitutions of the conserved amino acids of the presumed transfer route impaired the activity of the Hyn hydrogenase. Western hybridization was applied to demonstrate that the cellular level of the mutant hydrogenases was similar to that of the wild type. Mostly based on theoretical modeling, few proton transfer pathways have already been suggested for [NiFe] hydrogenases. Our results propose an alternative route for proton transfer between the [NiFe] active center and the surface of the protein. A novel feature of this model is that this proton pathway is located on the opposite side of the large subunit relative to the position of the small subunit. This is the first study presenting a systematic analysis of an in silico predicted proton translocation pathway in [NiFe] hydrogenases by site-directed mutagenesis. PMID:22511957

  8. Structure of the sporulation histidine kinase inhibitor Sda from Bacillus subtilis and insights into its solution state

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

    Jacques, David A.; Streamer, Margaret; Rowland, Susan L.

    2009-06-01

    The crystal structure of Sda, a DNA-replication/damage checkpoint inhibitor of sporulation in B. subtilis, has been solved via the MAD method. The subunit arrangement in the crystal has enabled a reappraisal of previous biophysical data, resulting in a new model for the behaviour of the protein in solution. The crystal structure of the DNA-damage checkpoint inhibitor of sporulation, Sda, from Bacillus subtilis, has been solved by the MAD technique using selenomethionine-substituted protein. The structure closely resembles that previously solved by NMR, as well as the structure of a homologue from Geobacillus stearothermophilus solved in complex with the histidine kinase KinB.more » The structure contains three molecules in the asymmetric unit. The unusual trimeric arrangement, which lacks simple internal symmetry, appears to be preserved in solution based on an essentially ideal fit to previously acquired scattering data for Sda in solution. This interpretation contradicts previous findings that Sda was monomeric or dimeric in solution. This study demonstrates the difficulties that can be associated with the characterization of small proteins and the value of combining multiple biophysical techniques. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding the physical principles behind these techniques and therefore their limitations.« less

  9. Backbone chemical shift assignments for the sensor domain of the Burkholderia pseudomallei histidine kinase RisS: "missing" resonances at the dimer interface.

    PubMed

    Buchko, Garry W; Edwards, Thomas E; Hewitt, Stephen N; Phan, Isabelle Q H; Van Voorhis, Wesley C; Miller, Samuel I; Myler, Peter J

    2015-10-01

    Using a deuterated sample, all the observable backbone (1)H(N), (15)N, (13)C(a), and (13)C' chemical shifts for the dimeric, periplasmic sensor domain of the Burkholderia pseudomallei histidine kinase RisS were assigned. Approximately one-fifth of the amide resonances are "missing" in the (1)H-(15)N HSQC spectrum and map primarily onto α-helices at the dimer interface observed in a crystal structure suggesting this region either undergoes intermediate timescale motion (μs-ms) and/or is heterogeneous.

  10. Chromium III histidinate exposure modulates antioxidant gene expression in HaCaT human keratinocytes exposed to oxidative stress

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    While the toxicity of hexavalent chromium is well established, trivalent Cr (Cr(III)) is an essential nutrient involved in insulin and glucose homeostasis. Recently, antioxidant effects of chromium (III) histidinate (Cr(III)His) were reported in HaCaT human keratinocytes exposed to oxidative stress...

  11. Generation of Bayesian prediction models for OATP-mediated drug-drug interactions based on inhibition screen of OATP1B1, OATP1B1∗15 and OATP1B3.

    PubMed

    van de Steeg, E; Venhorst, J; Jansen, H T; Nooijen, I H G; DeGroot, J; Wortelboer, H M; Vlaming, M L H

    2015-04-05

    Human organic anion-transporting polypeptide 1B1 (OATP1B1) and OATP1B3 are important hepatic uptake transporters. Early assessment of OATP1B1/1B3-mediated drug-drug interactions (DDIs) is therefore important for successful drug development. A promising approach for early screening and prediction of DDIs is computational modeling. In this study we aimed to generate a rapid, single Bayesian prediction model for OATP1B1, OATP1B1∗15 and OATP1B3 inhibition. Besides our previously generated HEK-OATP1B1 and HEK-OATP1B1∗15 cells, we now generated and characterized HEK-OATP1B3 cells. Using these cell lines we investigated the inhibitory potential of 640 FDA-approved drugs from a commercial library (10μM) on the uptake of [(3)H]-estradiol-17β-d-glucuronide (1μM) by OATP1B1, OATP1B1∗15, and OATP1B3. Using a cut-off of ⩾60% inhibition, 8% and 7% of the 640 drugs were potent OATP1B1 and OATP1B1∗15 inhibitors, respectively. Only 1% of the tested drugs significantly inhibited OATP1B3, which was not sufficient for Bayesian modeling. Modeling of OATP1B1 and OATP1B1∗15 inhibition revealed that presence of conjugated systems and (hetero)cycles with acceptor/donor atoms in- or outside the ring enhance the probability of a molecule binding these transporters. The overall performance of the model for OATP1B1 and OATP1B1∗15 was ⩾80%, including evaluation with a true external test set. Our Bayesian classification model thus represents a fast, inexpensive and robust means of assessing potential binding of new chemical entities to OATP1B1 and OATP1B1∗15. As such, this model may be used to rank compounds early in the drug development process, helping to avoid adverse effects in a later stage due to inhibition of OATP1B1 and/or OATP1B1∗15. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Induction of the Histamine-Forming Enzyme Histidine Decarboxylase in Skeletal Muscles by Prolonged Muscular Work: Histological Demonstration and Mediation by Cytokines.

    PubMed

    Ayada, Kentaro; Tsuchiya, Masahiro; Yoneda, Hiroyuki; Yamaguchi, Kouji; Kumamoto, Hiroyuki; Sasaki, Keiichi; Tadano, Takeshi; Watanabe, Makoto; Endo, Yasuo

    2017-01-01

    Recent studies suggest that histamine-a regulator of the microcirculation-may play important roles in exercise. We have shown that the histamine-forming enzyme histidine decarboxylase (HDC) is induced in skeletal muscles by prolonged muscular work (PMW). However, histological analysis of such HDC induction is lacking due to appropriate anti-HDC antibodies being unavailable. We also showed that the inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α can induce HDC, and that PMW increases both IL-1α and IL-1β in skeletal muscles. Here, we examined the effects (a) of PMW on the histological evidence of HDC induction and (b) of IL-1β and TNF-α on HDC activity in skeletal muscles. By immunostaining using a recently introduced commercial polyclonal anti-HDC antibody, we found that cells in the endomysium and around blood vessels, and also some muscle fibers themselves, became HDC-positive after PMW. After PMW, TNF-α, but not IL-1α or IL-1β, was detected in the blood serum. The minimum intravenous dose of IL-1β that would induce HDC activity was about 1/10 that of TNF-α, while in combination they synergistically augmented HDC activity. These results suggest that PMW induces HDC in skeletal muscles, including cells in the endomysium and around blood vessels, and also some muscle fibers themselves, and that IL-1β and TNF-α may cooperatively mediate this induction.

  13. Endophilin B1

    PubMed Central

    Cheung, Zelda H

    2009-01-01

    Endophilin B1 is a member of the endophilin family that is localized predominantly to intracellular membranes. Also known as Bax-interacting factor-1 (Bif-1), this protein has been observed to regulate the membrane dynamics of various intracellular compartments, such as the control of mitochondrial morphology and autophagosome formation in fibroblast. Endophilin B1 is expressed in the brain, but its functions in neurons had remained unknown. Recently, we have observed a novel role of endophilin B1 in neurons where it controls the trafficking of TrkA, cognate receptor for the prototypic neurotrophin nerve growth factor (NGF). Knock-down of endophilin B1 expression induces precocious targeting of NGF/TrkA to late endosomes and lysosomes, thereby leading to reduced TrkA levels. This is accompanied by marked attenuation of NGF-induced gene transcription and neurite outgrowth. Our observations suggest that endophilin B1 regulates TrkA level and downstream functions by controlling the movement of TrkA to late endosomes/lysosomes, possibly acting at the level of early endosomes. PMID:19704909

  14. Application of a case-control study design to investigate genotypic signatures of HIV-1 transmission.

    PubMed

    Mota, Talia M; Murray, John M; Center, Rob J; Purcell, Damian F J; McCaw, James M

    2012-06-25

    The characterization of HIV-1 transmission strains may inform the design of an effective vaccine. Shorter variable loops with fewer predicted glycosites have been suggested as signatures enriched in envelope sequences derived during acute HIV-1 infection. Specifically, a transmission-linked lack of glycosites within the V1 and V2 loops of gp120 provides greater access to an α4β7 binding motif, which promotes the establishment of infection. Also, a histidine at position 12 in the leader sequence of Env has been described as a transmission signature that is selected against during chronic infection. The purpose of this study is to measure the association of the presence of an α4β7 binding motif, the number of N-linked glycosites, the length of the variable loops, and the prevalence of histidine at position 12 with HIV-1 transmission. A case-control study design was used to measure the prevalence of these variables between subtype B and C transmission sequences and frequency-matched randomly-selected sequences derived from chronically infected controls. Subtype B transmission strains had shorter V3 regions than chronic strains (p = 0.031); subtype C transmission strains had shorter V1 loops than chronic strains (p = 0.047); subtype B transmission strains had more V3 loop glycosites (p = 0.024) than chronic strains. Further investigation showed that these statistically significant results were unlikely to be biologically meaningful. Also, there was no difference observed in the prevalence of a histidine at position 12 among transmission strains and controls of either subtype. Although a genetic bottleneck is observed after HIV-1 transmission, our results indicate that summary characteristics of Env hypothesised to be important in transmission are not divergent between transmission and chronic strains of either subtype. The success of a transmission strain to initiate infection may be a random event from the divergent pool of donor viral sequences. The

  15. 76 FR 70046 - Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model AS350B, B1, B2, B3, BA, C, D, and D1; and...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-11-10

    ... Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model AS350B, B1, B2, B3, BA, C, D, and D1; and AS355E, F, F1, F2, N... France (Eurocopter) Model AS350B, B1, B2, B3, BA, C, D, and D1 helicopters; and Model AS355E, F, F1, F2... (AD 2003- 22-06), for Eurocopter Model AS350B, B1, B2, B3, BA, C, D, and D1; and Model AS355E, F, F1...

  16. X-ray structure of imidazolonepropionase from Agrobacterium tumefaciens at 1.87 Å resolution

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

    Tyagi, Rajiv; Kumaran, Desigan; Burley, Stephen K.

    2010-01-12

    Histidine degradation in Agrobacterium tumefaciens involves four enzymes, including histidase (EC 4.3.1.3), urocanase (EC 4.2.1.49), imidazolonepropionase (EC 3.5.2.7), and N-formylglutamate amidohydrolase (EC 3.5.3.8). The third enzyme of the pathway, imidazolone-propionase, a 45.6 kDa protein, catalyzes conversion of imidazolone-5-propanoate to N-forminio-L-glutamate. Initial studies of the role of imidazolonepropionase in histidine degradation were published in 1953. Subsequent publications have been limited to enzyme kinetics, crystallization, and a recently reported structure determination. The imidazolonepropionases are members of metallodepenent-hydrolases (or amidohydroase) superfamily, which includs ureases, adenosine deaminases, phosphotriesterases, dihydroorotases, allantoinases, hydantoinases, adenine and cytosine deaminases, imidazolonepropionases, aryldial-kylphosphatases, chlorohydrolases, and formylmethanofuran dehydroases. Proteins belonging tomore » this large group share a common three-dimensional structural motif (an eightfold {alpha}/{beta} or TIM barrel) with similar active sites. Most superfamily members also share a conserved metal binding site, involving four histidine residues and one aspartic acid. Imidazolonepropionase is one of the targets selected for X-ray crystallpgrahpic structure determination by the New York Structural GenomiX Research Consortium (NYSGXRC) Target ID: 9252b to correlate the structure function relationship of poorly studied by important enzyme. Here they report the crystal structure of imidazolonepropionase from Agrobacterium tumefaciens determined at 1.87 {angstrom} resolution.« less

  17. The effect of organic anion-transporting polypeptides 1B1, 1B3 and 2B1 on the antitumor activity of flavopiridol in breast cancer cells.

    PubMed

    Brenner, Stefan; Riha, Juliane; Giessrigl, Benedikt; Thalhammer, Theresia; Grusch, Michael; Krupitza, Georg; Stieger, Bruno; Jäger, Walter

    2015-01-01

    The contribution of organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATPs) to the cellular uptake of flavopiridol was investigated in OATP1B1-, OATP1B3- and OATP2B1-expressing Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Uptake of flavopiridol into these cells showed typical Michaelis-Menten kinetics with much higher transport capacity for OATP1B3 compared to OATP1B1 and OATP2B1 (Vmax/Km, 33.9 vs. 8.84 and 2.41 µl/mg/min, respectively). The predominant role of OATPs was further supported by a dramatic inhibition of flavopiridol uptake in the presence of the OATP substrate rifampicin. Uptake of flavopiridol by OATPs also seems to be an important determinant in breast cancer cells. The much higher mRNA level for OATP1B1 found in wild-type compared to ZR-75-1 OATP1B1 knockdown cells correlated with higher flavopiridol initial uptake leading to 4.6-fold decreased IC50 values in the cytotoxicity assay (IC50, 1.45 vs. 6.64 µM). Cell cycle profile also showed a clear incidence for a stronger cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase for ZR-75-1 wild-type cells compared to OATP1B1 knockdown cells, further indicating an active uptake via OATP1B1. In conclusion, our results revealed OATP1B1, OATP1B3 and OATP2B1 as uptake transporters for flavopiridol in cancer cells, which may also apply in patients during cancer therapy.

  18. Imidazole C-2 Hydrogen/Deuterium Exchange Reaction at Histidine for Probing Protein Structure and Function with MALDI Mass Spectrometry

    PubMed Central

    Hayashi, Naoka; Kuyama, Hiroki; Nakajima, Chihiro; Kawahara, Kazuki; Miyagi, Masaru; Nishimura, Osamu; Matsuo, Hisayuki; Nakazawa, Takashi

    2015-01-01

    We present a mass spectrometric method for analyzing protein structure and function, based on the imidazole C-2 or histidine1 hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) exchange reaction, which is intrinsically second order with respect to the concentrations of the imidazolium cation and OD− in D2O. The second-order rate constant (k2) of this reaction was calculated from the pH-dependency of the pseudo-first-order rate constant (kφ) obtained from the change of average mass ΔMr (0 ≤ ΔMr < 1) of a peptide fragment containing a defined histidine residue at incubation time (t) such that kφ = − [ln(1−ΔMr)]/t. We preferred using k2 rather than kφ because k2max (maximal value of k2) was empirically related to pKa as illustrated with a Brønsted plot: logk2max=-0.7pKa+α (α is an arbitrary constant), so that we could analyze the effect of structure on the H/D-exchange rate in terms of log(k2max/k2) representing the deviation of k2 from k2max. In the catalytic site of bovine ribonuclease A, His12 showed much larger change in log(k2max/k2) compared with His119 upon binding with cytidine 3′-monophosphate, as anticipated from the X-ray structures and the possible change in solvent accessibility. However, there is a need of considering the hydrogen bonds of the imidazole group with non-dissociable groups to interpret an extremely slow H/D exchange rate of His48 in partially solvent-exposed situation. PMID:24606199

  19. Zebrafish Lmx1b.1 and Lmx1b.2 are required for maintenance of the isthmic organizer.

    PubMed

    O'Hara, F Patrick; Beck, Ernestine; Barr, Lauren K; Wong, Lily L; Kessler, Daniel S; Riddle, Robert D

    2005-07-01

    The mesencephalic and metencephalic region (MMR) of the vertebrate central nervous system develops in response to signals produced by the isthmic organizer (IsO). We have previously reported that the LIM homeobox transcription factor Lmx1b is expressed within the chick IsO, where it is sufficient to maintain expression of the secreted factor wnt1. In this paper, we show that zebrafish express two Lmx1b orthologs, lmx1b.1 and lmx1b.2, in the rostral IsO, and demonstrate that these genes are necessary for key aspects of MMR development. Simultaneous knockdown of Lmx1b.1 and Lmx1b.2 using morpholino antisense oligos results in a loss of wnt1, wnt3a, wnt10b, pax8 and fgf8 expression at the IsO, leading ultimately to programmed cell death and the loss of the isthmic constriction and cerebellum. Single morpholino knockdown of either Lmx1b.1 or Lmx1b.2 has no discernible effect on MMR development. Maintenance of lmx1b.1 and lmx1b.2 expression at the isthmus requires the function of no isthmus/pax2.1, as well as Fgf signaling. Transient misexpression of Lmx1b.1 or Lmx1b.2 during early MMR development induces ectopic wnt1 and fgf8 expression in the MMR, as well as throughout much of the embryo. We propose that Lmx1b.1- and Lmx1b.2-mediated regulation of wnt1, wnt3a, wnt10b, pax8 and fgf8 maintains cell survival in the isthmocerebellar region.

  20. Crystal Structures of Apparent Saccharide Sensors from Histidine Kinase Receptors Prevalent in a Human Gut Symbiont

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Zhen; Liu, Qun; Hendrickson, Wayne A.

    2014-01-01

    The adult human gut presents a complicated ecosystem where host-bacterium symbiosis plays an important role. Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron is a predominant member of the gut microflora, providing the human digestive tract with a large number of glycolytic enzymes. Expression of many of these enzymes appears to be controlled by histidine kinase receptors that are fused into unusual hybrid two-component systems that share homologous periplasmic sensor domains. These sensor domains belong to the third most populated (HK3) family based on a previous bioinformatics analysis of predicted histidine kinase sensors. Here, we present crystal structures of two sensor domains representative of the HK3 family. Each sensor is folded into three domains: two seven-bladed β-propeller domains and one β-sandwich domain. Both sensors form dimers in crystals and one sensor appears to be physiologically relevant. The folding characteristics in the individual domains, the domain organization, and the oligomeric architecture are all unique to the HK3 sensors. The sequence analysis of the HK3 sensors indicates that these sensors are shared among other signaling molecules, implying a combinatorial molecular evolution. PMID:24995510

  1. Alanyl-glutamine dipeptide restores the cytoprotective stress proteome of mesothelial cells exposed to peritoneal dialysis fluids.

    PubMed

    Kratochwill, Klaus; Boehm, Michael; Herzog, Rebecca; Lichtenauer, Anton Michael; Salzer, Elisabeth; Lechner, Michael; Kuster, Lilian; Bergmeister, Konstantin; Rizzi, Andreas; Mayer, Bernd; Aufricht, Christoph

    2012-03-01

    Exposure of mesothelial cells to peritoneal dialysis fluids (PDF) results in cytoprotective cellular stress responses (CSR) that counteract PDF-induced damage. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the CSR may be inadequate in relevant models of peritoneal dialysis (PD) due to insufficient levels of glutamine, resulting in increased vulnerability against PDF cytotoxicity. We particularly investigated the role of alanyl-glutamine (Ala-Gln) dipeptide on the cytoprotective PDF stress proteome. Adequacy of CSR was investigated in two human in vitro models (immortalized cell line MeT-5A and mesothelial cells derived from peritoneal effluent of uraemic patients) following exposure to heat-sterilized glucose-based PDF (PD4-Dianeal, Baxter) diluted with medium and, in a comparative proteomics approach, at different levels of glutamine ranging from depletion (0 mM) via physiological (0.7 mM) to pharmacological levels (8 mM administered as Ala-Gln). Despite severe cellular injury, expression of cytoprotective proteins was dampened upon PDF exposure at physiological glutamine levels, indicating an inadequate CSR. Depletion of glutamine aggravated cell injury and further reduced the CSR, whereas addition of Ala-Gln at pharmacological level restored an adequate CSR, decreasing cellular damage in both PDF exposure systems. Ala-Gln specifically stimulated chaperoning activity, and cytoprotective processes were markedly enhanced in the PDF stress proteome. Taken together, this study demonstrates an inadequate CSR of mesothelial cells following PDF exposure associated with low and physiological levels of glutamine, indicating a new and potentially relevant pathomechanism. Supplementation of PDF with pharmacological doses of Ala-Gln restored the cytoprotective stress proteome, resulting in improved resistance of mesothelial cells to exposure to PDF. Future work will study the clinical relevance of CSR-mediated cytoprotection.

  2. Effects of Alanyl-Glutamine Treatment on the Peritoneal Dialysis Effluent Proteome Reveal Pathomechanism-Associated Molecular Signatures*

    PubMed Central

    Herzog, Rebecca; Boehm, Michael; Unterwurzacher, Markus; Wagner, Anja; Parapatics, Katja; Májek, Peter; Mueller, André C.; Lichtenauer, Anton; Bennett, Keiryn L.; Alper, Seth L.; Vychytil, Andreas; Aufricht, Christoph; Kratochwill, Klaus

    2018-01-01

    Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a modality of renal replacement therapy in which the high volumes of available PD effluent (PDE) represents a rich source of biomarkers for monitoring disease and therapy. Although this information could help guide the management of PD patients, little is known about the potential of PDE to define pathomechanism-associated molecular signatures in PD. We therefore subjected PDE to a high-performance multiplex proteomic analysis after depletion of highly-abundant plasma proteins and enrichment of low-abundance proteins. A combination of label-free and isobaric labeling strategies was applied to PDE samples from PD patients (n = 20) treated in an open-label, randomized, two-period, cross-over clinical trial with standard PD fluid or with a novel PD fluid supplemented with alanyl-glutamine (AlaGln). With this workflow we identified 2506 unique proteins in the PDE proteome, greatly increasing coverage beyond the 171 previously-reported proteins. The proteins identified range from high abundance plasma proteins to low abundance cellular proteins, and are linked to larger numbers of biological processes and pathways, some of which are novel for PDE. Interestingly, proteins linked to membrane remodeling and fibrosis are overrepresented in PDE compared with plasma, whereas the proteins underrepresented in PDE suggest decreases in host defense, immune-competence and response to stress. Treatment with AlaGln-supplemented PD fluid is associated with reduced activity of membrane injury-associated mechanisms and with restoration of biological processes involved in stress responses and host defense. Our study represents the first application of the PDE proteome in a randomized controlled prospective clinical trial of PD. This novel proteomic workflow allowed detection of low abundance biomarkers to define pathomechanism-associated molecular signatures in PD and their alterations by a novel therapeutic intervention. PMID:29208752

  3. Ends of the line for tmRNA-SmpB

    DOE PAGES

    Hudson, Corey M.; Lau, Britney Y.; Williams, Kelly P.

    2014-08-13

    Genes for the RNA tmRNA and protein SmpB, partners in the trans-translation process that rescues stalled ribosomes, have previously been found in all bacteria and some organelles. We validate recent identification of tmRNA homologs in oomycete mitochondria by finding partner genes from oomycete nuclei that target SmpB to the mitochondrion. Exhaustive search now identifies a small number of complete, often highly derived, bacterial genomes that appear to lack a functional copy of one or the other partner gene (but not both). Three groups with reduced genomes have lost the central loop of SmpB, which is thought to improve alanylation andmore » EF-Tu activation: Carsonella, Hodgkinia and the hemplasmas (hemotropic Mycoplasma). Carsonella has also lost the SmpB C-terminal tail, thought to stimulate the decoding center of the ribosome. Carsonella moreover exhibits gene overlap such that tmRNA maturation should produce a non-stop smpB mRNA, and one isolate exhibits complete degradation of the tmRNA gene yet its smpB shows no evidence for relaxed selective constraint. After loss of the SmpB central loop in the hemoplasmas, a subclade apparently lost tmRNA. At least some of the tmRNA/SmpB-deficient strains appear to further lack the ArfA and ArfB backup systems for ribosome rescue. The most frequent neighbors of smpB are the tmRNA gene, a ratA/rnfH unit, and the gene for RNaseR, a known physical and functional partner of tmRNA-SmpB. The tmRNA Website has moved and been updated, adding an SmpB sequence database (http://bioinformatics.sandia.gov/tmrna).« less

  4. A Model for the Flexibility of the Distal Histidine in Dehaloperoxidase-Hemoglobin A Based on X-ray Crystal Structures of the Carbon Monoxide Adduct

    PubMed Central

    2015-01-01

    Dehaloperoxidase hemoglobin A (DHP A) is a multifunctional hemoglobin that appears to have evolved oxidative pathways for the degradation of xenobiotics as a protective function that complements the oxygen transport function. DHP A possesses at least two internal binding sites, one for substrates and one for inhibitors, which include various halogenated phenols and indoles. Herein, we report the X-ray crystallographic structure of the carbonmonoxy complex (DHPCO). Unlike other DHP structures with 6-coordinated heme, the conformation of the distal histidine (H55) in DHPCO is primarily external or solvent exposed, despite the fact that the heme Fe is 6-coordinated. As observed generally in globins, DHP exhibits two distal histidine conformations (one internal and one external). In previous structural studies, we have shown that the distribution of H55 conformations is weighted strongly toward the external position when the DHP heme Fe is 5-coordinated. The large population of the external conformation of the distal histidine observed in DHPCO crystals at pH 6.0 indicates that some structural factor in DHP must account for the difference from other globins, which exhibit a significant external conformation only when pH < 4.5. While the original hypothesis suggested that interaction with a heme-Fe-bound ligand was the determinant of H55 conformation, the current study forces a refinement of that hypothesis. The external or open conformation of H55 is observed to have interactions with two propionate groups in heme, at distances of 3.82 and 2.73 Å, respectively. A relatively weak hydrogen bonding interaction between H55 and CO, combined with strong interactions with heme propionate (position 6), is hypothesized to strengthen the external conformation of H55. Density function theory (DFT) calculations were conducted to test whether there is a weaker hydrogen bond interaction between H55 and heme bonded CO or O2. Molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to examine

  5. Hadronic decays of B →a1(1260 )b1(1235 ) in the perturbative QCD approach

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jing, Hao-Yang; Liu, Xin; Xiao, Zhen-Jun

    2017-12-01

    We calculate the branching ratios and polarization fractions of the B →a1b1 decays in the perturbative QCD(pQCD) approach at leading order, where a1(b1) stands for the axial-vector a1(1260 )[b1(1235 )] state. By combining the phenomenological analyses with the perturbative calculations, we find the following results: (a) the large decay rates around 10-5 to 10-6 of the B →a1b1 decays dominated by the longitudinal polarization(except for the B+→b1+a10 mode) are predicted and basically consistent with those in the QCD factorization(QCDF) within errors, which are expected to be tested by the Large Hadron Collider and Belle-II experiments. The large B0→a10b10 branching ratio could provide hints to help explore the mechanism of the color-suppressed decays. (b) the rather different QCD behaviors between the a1 and b1 mesons result in the destructive(constructive) contributions in the nonfactorizable spectator diagrams with a1(b1) emission. Therefore, an interesting pattern of the branching ratios appears for the color-suppressed B0→a10a10,a10b10, and b10b10 modes in the pQCD approach, BR (B0→b10b10)>BR (B0→a10b10)≳BR (B0→a10a10), which is different from BR (B0→b10b10)˜BR (B0→a10b10)≳BR (B0→a10a10) in the QCDF and would be verified at future experiments. (c) the large naive factorization breaking effects are observed in these B →a1b1 decays. Specifically, the large nonfactorizable spectator(weak annihilation) amplitudes contribute to the B0→b1+a1-(B+→a1+b10andB+→b1+a10) mode(s), which demand confirmations via the precise measurements. Furthermore, the different phenomenologies shown among B →a1b1, B →a1a1, and Bb1b1 decays are also expected to be tested stringently, which could shed light on the typical QCD dynamics involved in these modes, even further distinguish those two popular pQCD and QCDF approaches.

  6. B1-control receive array coil (B-RAC) for reducing B1+ inhomogeneity in abdominal imaging at 3T-MRI

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kaneko, Yukio; Soutome, Yoshihisa; Habara, Hideta; Bito, Yoshitaka; Ochi, Hisaaki

    2018-02-01

    B1+ inhomogeneity in the human body increases as the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) frequency increases. Various methods have thus been developed to reduce B1+ inhomogeneity, such as a dielectric pad, a coupling coil, parallel transmit, and radio-frequency (RF) shimming. However, B1+ inhomogeneity still remains in some cases of abdominal imaging. In this study, we developed a B1-control receive array coil (B-RAC). Unlike the conventional receive array coil, B-RAC reduces B1+ inhomogeneity by using additional PIN diodes to generate the inductive loop during the RF transmit period. The inductive loop can generate dense and sparse regions of the magnetic flux, which can be used to compensate for B1+ inhomogeneity. First, B-RAC is modeled in the numerical simulation, and the spatial distributions of B1+ in a phantom and a human model were analyzed. Next, we fabricated a 12-channel B-RAC and measured receive sensitivity and B1+ maps in a 3T-MRI experiment. It was demonstrated that B-RAC can reduce B1+ inhomogeneity in the phantom and human model without increasing the maximum local specific absorption rate (SAR) in the body. B-RAC was also found to have almost the same the receive sensitivity as the conventional receive coil. Using RF shimming combined with B-RAC was revealed to more effectively reduce B1+ inhomogeneity than using only RF shimming. Therefore, B-RAC can reduce B1+ inhomogeneity while maintaining the receive sensitivity.

  7. 26 CFR 1.267(b)-1 - Relationships.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Relationships. 1.267(b)-1 Section 1.267(b)-1...) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Items Not Deductible § 1.267(b)-1 Relationships. (a) In general. (1) The persons... partnership separately. Therefore, if the other person and a partner are within any one of the relationships...

  8. 26 CFR 1.267(b)-1 - Relationships.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Relationships. 1.267(b)-1 Section 1.267(b)-1...) INCOME TAXES Items Not Deductible § 1.267(b)-1 Relationships. (a) In general. (1) The persons referred to... partnership separately. Therefore, if the other person and a partner are within any one of the relationships...

  9. Role of B13 Glu in insulin assembly. The hexamer structure of recombinant mutant (B13 Glu-->Gln) insulin.

    PubMed

    Bentley, G A; Brange, J; Derewenda, Z; Dodson, E J; Dodson, G G; Markussen, J; Wilkinson, A J; Wollmer, A; Xiao, B

    1992-12-20

    The assembly of the insulin hexamer brings the six B13 glutamate side-chains at the centre into close proximity. Their mutual repulsion is unfavourable and zinc co-ordination to B10 histidine is necessary to stabilize the well known zinc-containing hexamers. Since B13 is always a carboxylic acid in all known sequences of hexamer forming insulins, it is likely to be important in the hormone's biology. The mutation of B13 Glu-->Gln leads to a stable zinc-free hexamer with somewhat reduced potency. The structures of the zinc-free B13 Gln hexamer and the 2Zn B13 insulin hexamer have been determined by X-ray analysis and refined with 2.5 A and 2.0 A diffraction data, respectively. Comparisons show that in 2Zn B13 Gln insulin, the hexamer structure (T6) is very like that of the native hormone. On the other hand, the zinc-free hexamer assumes a quaternary structure (T3/R3) seen in the native 4Zn insulin hexamer, and normally associated only with high chloride ion concentrations in the medium. The crystal structures show the B13 Gln side-chains only contact water in contrast to the B13 glutamate in 2Zn insulin. The solvation of the B13 Gln may be associated with this residue favouring helix at B1 to B8. The low potency of the B13 Gln insulin also suggests the residue influences the hormone's conformation.

  10. Characterization of ursodeoxycholic and norursodeoxycholic acid as substrates of the hepatic uptake transporters OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OATP2B1 and NTCP.

    PubMed

    König, Jörg; Klatt, Sabine; Dilger, Karin; Fromm, Martin F

    2012-08-01

    Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the only approved treatment for primary biliary cirrhosis, and norursodeoxycholic acid (norUDCA) is currently tested in clinical trials for future treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis because of beneficial effects in cholestatic Mdr2 knock-out mice. Uptake of UDCA and norUDCA into hepatocytes is believed to be a prerequisite for subsequent metabolism and therapeutic action. However, the molecular determinants of hepatocellular uptake of UDCA and norUDCA are poorly understood. We therefore investigated whether UDCA and norUDCA are substrates of the hepatic uptake transporters OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OATP2B1 and Na(+) -taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP), which are localized in the basolateral membrane of hepatocytes. Uptake of [(3) H]UDCA and [(14) C]norUDCA into Human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells stably expressing OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OATP2B1 or NTCP was investigated and compared with uptake into vector control cells. Uptake ratios were calculated by dividing uptake into transporter-transfected cells by uptake into respective control cells. Uptake ratios of OATP1B1-, OATP1B3- and OATP2B1-mediated UDCA and norUDCA uptake were at maximum 1.23 and 1.49, respectively. Uptake of UDCA was significantly higher into HEK-NTCP cells only at the lowest tested concentration (1 μM, p < 0.001) compared with the control cells with an uptake ratio of 1.34-fold. NorUDCA was not significantly transported by NTCP. The low uptake rates suggest that OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OATP2B1 and NTCP are not relevant for hepatocellular uptake and effects of UDCA and norUDCA in human beings. © 2012 The Authors Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology © 2012 Nordic Pharmacological Society.

  11. An histidine covalent receptor/butenolide complex mediates strigolactone perception

    PubMed Central

    Badet-Denisot, Marie-Ange; Pillot, Jean-Paul; Cornu, David; Le Caer, Jean-Pierre; Burger, Marco; Pelissier, Frank; Retailleau, Pascal; Turnbull, Colin; Bonhomme, Sandrine; Chory, Joanne; Rameau, Catherine; Boyer, François-Didier

    2016-01-01

    Strigolactone plant hormones control plant architecture and are key players in both symbiotic and parasitic interactions. They contain an ABC tricyclic lactone connected to a butenolide group, the D-ring. The DWARF14 (D14) strigolactone receptor belongs to the superfamily of α/β-hydrolases and is known to hydrolyze the bond between the ABC lactone and the D-ring. Here we characterize the binding and catalytic functions of RAMOSUS3 (RMS3), the pea (Pisum sativum) ortholog of rice (Oryza sativa) D14 strigolactone receptor. Using novel profluorescent probes with strigolactone-like bioactivity, we show that RMS3 acts as a single-turnover enzyme that explains its apparent low enzymatic rate. We further demonstrate the formation of a covalent RMS3/D-ring complex, essential for bioactivity, in which the D-ring is attached to Histidine 247 of the catalytic triad. These results reveal an undescribed mechanism of plant hormone reception where the receptor performs an irreversible enzymatic reaction to generate its own ligand. PMID:27479744

  12. 18 CFR 1b.1 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Definitions. 1b.1 Section 1b.1 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF... pipelines, electric utilities and hydroelectric projects. [43 FR 27174, June 23, 1978, as amended by Order...

  13. Polycyclic phloroglucinols as PTP1B inhibitors from Hypericum longistylum: Structures, PTP1B inhibitory activities, and interactions with PTP1B.

    PubMed

    Cao, Xiangrong; Yang, Xueyuan; Wang, Peixia; Liang, Yue; Liu, Feng; Tuerhong, Muhetaer; Jin, Da-Qing; Xu, Jing; Lee, Dongho; Ohizumi, Yasushi; Guo, Yuanqiang

    2017-12-01

    Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) has been regarded asa target for the research and development of new drugs to treat type II diabetes and PTP1B inhibitors are potential lead compounds for this type of new drugs. A phytochemical investigation to obtain new PTP1B inhibitors resulted in the isolation of four new phloroglucinols, longistyliones A-D (1-4) from the aerial parts of Hypericum longistylum. The structures of 1-4 were elucidated on the basis of extensive 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data analysis, and the absolute configurations of these compounds were established by comparing their experimental electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra with those calculated by the time-dependent density functional theory method. Compounds 1-4 possess a rare polycyclic phloroglucinol skeleton. The following biological evaluation revealed that all of the compounds showed PTP1B inhibitory effects. The further molecular docking studies indicated the strong interactions between these bioactive compounds with the PTP1B protein, which revealed the possible mechanism of PTP1B inhibition of bioactive compounds. All of the results implied that these compounds are potentially useful for the treatment of type II diabetes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Opposing roles of the aldo-keto reductases AKR1B1 and AKR1B10 in colorectal cancer.

    PubMed

    Taskoparan, Betul; Seza, Esin Gulce; Demirkol, Secil; Tuncer, Sinem; Stefek, Milan; Gure, Ali Osmay; Banerjee, Sreeparna

    2017-12-01

    Aldo-keto reductases (including AKR1B1 and AKR1B10) constitute a family of oxidoreductases that have been implicated in the pathophysiology of diabetes and cancer, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Available data indicate that, despite their similarities in structure and enzymatic functions, their roles in CRC may be divergent. Here, we aimed to determine the expression and functional implications of AKR1B1 and AKR1B10 in CRC. AKR1B1 and AKR1B10 gene expression levels were analyzed using publicly available microarray data and ex vivo CRC-derived cDNA samples. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) RNA-seq data and The Cancer Proteome Atlas (TCPA) proteome data were analyzed to determine the effect of high and low AKR1B1 and AKR1B10 expression levels in CRC patients. Proliferation, cell cycle progression, cellular motility, adhesion and inflammation were determined in CRC-derived cell lines in which these genes were either exogenously overexpressed or silenced. We found that the expression of AKR1B1 was unaltered, whereas that of AKR1B10 was decreased in primary CRCs. GSEA revealed that, while high AKR1B1 expression was associated with increased cell cycle progression, cellular motility and inflammation, high AKR1B10 expression was associated with a weak inflammatory phenotype. Functional studies carried out in CRC-derived cell lines confirmed these data. Microarray data analysis indicated that high expression levels of AKR1B1 and AKR1B10 were significantly associated with shorter and longer disease-free survival rates, respectively. A combined gene expression signature of AKR1B10 (low) and AKR1B1 (high) showed a better prognostic stratification of CRC patients independent of confounding factors. Despite their similarities, the expression levels and functions of AKR1B1 and AKR1B10 are highly divergent in CRC, and they may have prognostic implications.

  15. Preparation of silica coated cobalt ferrite magnetic nanoparticles for the purification of histidine-tagged proteins

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aygar, Gülfem; Kaya, Murat; Özkan, Necati; Kocabıyık, Semra; Volkan, Mürvet

    2015-12-01

    Surface modified cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) nanoparticles containing Ni-NTA affinity group were synthesized and used for the separation of histidine tag proteins from the complex matrices through the use of imidazole side chains of histidine molecules. Firstly, CoFe2O4 nanoparticles with a narrow size distribution were prepared in an aqueous solution using the controlled co-precipitation method. In order to obtain small CoFe2O4 agglomerates, oleic acid and sodium chloride were used as dispersants. The CoFe2O4 particles were coated with silica and subsequently the surface of these silica coated particles (SiO2-CoFe2O4) was modified by amine (NH2) groups in order to add further functional groups on the silica shell. Then, carboxyl (-COOH) functional groups were added to the SiO2-CoFe2O4 magnetic nanoparticles through the NH2 groups. After that Nα,Nα-Bis(carboxymethyl)-L-lysine hydrate (NTA) was attached to carboxyl ends of the structure. Finally, the surface modified nanoparticles were labeled with nickel (Ni) (II) ions. Furthermore, the modified SiO2-CoFe2O4 magnetic nanoparticles were utilized as a new system that allows purification of the N-terminal His-tagged recombinant small heat shock protein, Tpv-sHSP 14.3.

  16. Production and structural characterization of amino terminally histidine tagged human oncostatin M in E. coli.

    PubMed

    Sporeno, E; Barbato, G; Graziani, R; Pucci, P; Nitti, G; Paonessa, G

    1994-05-01

    Oncostatin M is a cytokine that acts as a growth regulator on a wide variety of cells and has diverse biological activities including acute phase protein induction, LDL receptor up-regulation and cell-specific gene expression. In order to gather information about the Onc M structure, we established a protocol for large scale production and single step purification of this functional cytokine from bacterial cells. The cDNA of human Onc M was cloned by RT-PCR from total RNA of PMA induced U937 cells. After the addition of a six histidine tag at the N-terminus, the coding region of mature Onc M was cloned in the pT7.7 expression vector. Histidine tagged Onc M was overexpressed in bacterial cells and purified to homogeneity in one step on a metal chelating column. We found that recombinant 6xHis-OncM remains fully active in a growth inhibition assay. Structural characterization of the purified protein was performed by electrospray mass spectrometry, automated Edman degradation and peptide mapping by high-pressure liquid chromatography/fast-atom-bombardment mass spectrometry. Thermal and pH stability dependence of Onc M was assessed by circular dichroism spectroscopy; the helical content is about 50%, in agreement with the four helix bundle fold postulated for cytokines that bind haematopoietic receptors of type I.

  17. Dissecting the role of histidine kinase and HOG1 mitogen-activated protein kinase signalling in stress tolerance and pathogenicity of Parastagonospora nodorum on wheat

    PubMed Central

    John, Evan; Lopez-Ruiz, Francisco; Rybak, Kasia; Mousley, Carl J.; Oliver, Richard P.

    2016-01-01

    The HOG1 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is activated through two-component histidine kinase (HK) signalling. This pathway was first characterized in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a regulator of osmotolerance. The fungus Parastagonospora nodorum is the causal agent of septoria nodorum blotch of wheat. This pathogen uses host-specific effectors in tandem with general pathogenicity mechanisms to carry out its infection process. Genes showing strong sequence homology to S. cerevisiae HOG1 signalling pathway genes have been identified in the genome of P. nodorum. In this study, we examined the role of the pathway in the virulence of P. nodorum on wheat by disrupting putative pathway component genes: HOG1 (SNOG_13296) MAPK and NIK1 (SNOG_11631) hybrid HK. Mutants deleted in NIK1 and HOG1 were insensitive to dicarboximide and phenylpyrrole fungicides, but not a fungicide that targets ergosterol biosynthesis. Furthermore, both Δnik1 and Δhog1 mutants showed increased sensitivity to hyperosmotic stress. However, HOG1, but not NIK1, is required for tolerance to elevated temperatures. HOG1 deletion conferred increased tolerance to 6-methoxy-2-benzoxazolinone, a cereal phytoalexin. This suggests that the HOG1 signalling pathway is not exclusively associated with NIK1. Both Δnik1 and Δhog1 mutants retained the ability to infect and cause necrotic lesions on wheat. However, we observed that the Δhog1 mutation resulted in reduced production of pycnidia, asexual fruiting bodies that facilitate spore dispersal during late infection. Our study demonstrated the overlapping and distinct roles of a HOG1 MAPK and two-component HK signalling in P. nodorum growth and pathogenicity. PMID:26978567

  18. A pH-sensitive micelle composed of heparin, phospholipids, and histidine as the carrier of photosensitizers: Application to enhance photodynamic therapy of cancer.

    PubMed

    Debele, Tilahun Ayane; Mekuria, Shewaye Lakew; Tsai, Hsieh-Chih

    2017-05-01

    In this study, we describe the synthesis of a stable, pH-sensitive micelle composed of heparin, 1, 2-distearoyl-sn-glycerol-3-phosphoethanolamine, and l-histidine (HDH) through 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC)/N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) chemistry. 1 H-Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses confirmed the formation of HDH copolymers and dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements indicated a particle size of 111.57±12.36nm and zeta potential of -59.8±5.2mV for the nanoparticles. The drug-loading and encapsulation efficiency of the micelles were 14.52±1.2% and 65.47±1.87%, respectively. Drug release studies showed approximately 91% zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) release from micelles in acidic conditions (pH 5.0) in comparison with 63% in physiological conditions (pH 7.4) after 96h of incubation. Singlet oxygen ( 1 O 2 ) detection revealed that the micelles prevented ZnPc aggregation and enhanced 1 O 2 generation. Cellular uptake of ZnPc-loaded micelles (ZnPc-HDH) was observed using confocal microscopy. Phototoxicity experiments in HeLa cells showed that ZnPc-loaded micelles had higher toxicity than that shown by the same concentration of free ZnPc. Hence, pH-sensitive HDH micelles are a promising carrier for hydrophobic ZnPc and improving PDT efficacy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. In vitro removal of human IgG autoantibodies by affinity filtration using immobilized L-histidine onto PEVA hollow fiber membranes.

    PubMed

    Ventura, R C; Zollner, R L; Legallais, C; Vijayalakshmi, M; Bueno, S M

    2001-01-01

    Histidine was immobilized onto PEVA membrane to obtain an affinity support for human IgG removal from serum with a view to clinical apheresis for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. These membranes were able to remove in vitro several autoantibodies from the serum of SLE patients.

  20. Neighbor-Directed Histidine N (s)–Alkylation: A Route to Imidazolium-Containing Phosphopeptide Macrocycles-Biopolymers | Center for Cancer Research

    Cancer.gov

    Our recently discovered, selective, on-resin route to N(s)-alkylated imidazolium-containing histidine residues affords new strategies for peptide mimetic design. In this, we demonstrate the use of this chemistry to prepare a series of macrocyclic phosphopeptides, in which imidazolium groups serve as ring-forming junctions. Interestingly, these cationic moieties subsequently

  1. Metabolic effects of basic fibroblast growth factor in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats: A 1H NMR-based metabolomics investigation.

    PubMed

    Lin, Xiaodong; Zhao, Liangcai; Tang, Shengli; Zhou, Qi; Lin, Qiuting; Li, Xiaokun; Zheng, Hong; Gao, Hongchang

    2016-11-03

    The fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) family shows a great potential in the treatment of diabetes, but little attention is paid to basic FGF (bFGF). In this study, to explore the metabolic effects of bFGF on diabetes, metabolic changes in serum and feces were analyzed in the normal rats, the streptozocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats and the bFGF-treated diabetic rats using a 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomic approach. Interestingly, bFGF treatment significantly decreased glucose, lipid and low density lipoprotein/very low density lipoprotein (LDL/VLDL) levels in serum of diabetic rats. Moreover, bFGF treatment corrected diabetes-induced reductions in citrate, lactate, choline, glycine, creatine, histidine, phenylalanine, tyrosine and glutamine in serum. Fecal propionate was significantly increased after bFGF treatment. Correlation analysis shows that glucose, lipid and LDL/VLDL were significantly negatively correlated with energy metabolites (citrate, creatine and lactate) and amino acids (alanine, glycine, histidine, phenylalanine, tyrosine and glutamine). In addition, a weak but significant correlation was observed between fecal propionate and serum lipid (R = -0.35, P = 0.046). Based on metabolic correlation and pathway analysis, therefore, we suggest that the glucose and lipid lowering effects of bFGF in the STZ-induced diabetic rats may be achieved by activating microbial metabolism, increasing energy metabolism and correcting amino acid metabolism.

  2. 40 CFR Figure B-1 to Subpart B of... - Example

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 6 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Example B Figure B-1 to Subpart B of Part 53 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED... of Automated Methods for SO2, CO, O3, and NO2 Pt. 53, Subpt. B, Fig. B-1 Figure B-1 to Subpart B of...

  3. 40 CFR Figure B-1 to Subpart B of... - Example

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 6 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Example B Figure B-1 to Subpart B of Part 53 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED... of Automated Methods for SO2, CO, O3, and NO2 Pt. 53, Subpt. B, Fig. B-1 Figure B-1 to Subpart B of...

  4. 40 CFR Figure B-1 to Subpart B of... - Example

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 6 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Example B Figure B-1 to Subpart B of Part 53 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED... of Automated Methods for SO2, CO, O3, and NO2 Pt. 53, Subpt. B, Fig. B-1 Figure B-1 to Subpart B of...

  5. THE ACTION OF ALKALIES ON PEPTIDES AND ON KETOPIPERAZINES

    PubMed Central

    Levene, P. A.; Pfaltz, M. H.

    1925-01-01

    1. The tripeptide glycyl-levo-alanyl-glycine in solution of either one or ten equivalents of alkali does not undergo racemization on standing. 2. The dipeptide levo-alanyl-glycine under the conditions given in (1) does not undergo racemization. 3. In ketopiperazines, levo-alanyl-glycine anhydride and in levo-prolyl-glycine anhydride under the influence of dilute alkalies, racemization takes place. 4. Racemization in the present experiments was never complete. The degree of racemization seems to depend, on the one hand, on the stability of the ketopiperazine ring; on the other, on the concentration of the alkali. 5. The significance of these observations will depend on the outcome of the work on a larger number of polypeptides and ketopiperazines. The work is now in progress in this laboratory. PMID:19872187

  6. 75 FR 22508 - Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model AS350B, BA, B1, B2, B3, C, D, and D1; AS 355E...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-04-29

    ... Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model AS350B, BA, B1, B2, B3, C, D, and D1; AS 355E, F, F1, F2, N... (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Model AS350B, BA, B1, B2, B3, C, D and D1; and AS 355E..., both dated November 16, 2005, is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of May 14, 2010...

  7. A 4-term energy level scheme for the high-spin ferrous hemoproteins: evidence for the 5E eta, and 5B2 terms as the ground multiplets in hemoproteins with a histidine and a cysteine protein-derived heme ligand, respectively.

    PubMed

    Oganesyan, V S; Sharonov, Y A

    1997-03-01

    We have carried out analysis of the electronic level scheme of the high-spin ferrous hemoproteins by simultaneous fit of the adjustable parameters of a 4-term theoretical model to low-temperature magnetic circular dichroism (MCD), room temperature absorption spectra and available magnetic susceptibility and or Mössbauer data of myoglobin, horseradish peroxidase and cytochrome P450. The high reliability of the ligand field parameter values obtained for deoxymyoglobin is confirmed by good agreement between the predicted and observed magnetic field dependences of MCD and magnetization not used in the fit procedure. In addition, an energy gap between the ground and first excited singlets, estimated to be 4.2 cm-1, agrees well with the value of approximately 4 cm-1 derived from the far-infrared magnetic resonance. Our computer and explicit theoretical analyses give strong evidence that large distinctions in the shape, intensity and temperature behaviour of the MCD of Mb and HRP from those of cytochrome P450 can be described only if the ground manifold in these proteins is 5E eta and 5B2, respectively. The changes in relative energies of the one-electron 3d-orbitals on substitution of an imidazole of histidine for a sulphur anion of cysteine as a protein-derived heme iron ligand are rationalized by the lower ionization potential of the negatively charged sulphur ligand and the higher pi-orbital overlap of its lone pair orbitals with the iron d pi-orbitals compared to the imidazole ligand.

  8. Biodegradable Bioadherent Microcapsules for Orally Administered Sustained Release Vaccines. Phase 1.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1995-10-23

    based on homology with the yeast alcohol oxidase (AOX) or histidine (his 4) loci and also upon the site of linearization of the plasmid since DNA ends...and Quantitation of Recombinant Fasciola Protein from the Pichia Yeast Expression System ...... 9 B. Production of Microcarriers...Recombinant Fasciola Protein from the Pichia Yeast Expression System ..... 15 B. Production of Microcarriers

  9. Preference of Conjugated Bile Acids over Unconjugated Bile Acids as Substrates for OATP1B1 and OATP1B3

    PubMed Central

    Suga, Takahiro; Sato, Toshihiro; Maekawa, Masamitsu; Goto, Junichi; Mano, Nariyasu

    2017-01-01

    Bile acids, the metabolites of cholesterol, are signaling molecules that play critical role in many physiological functions. They undergo enterohepatic circulation through various transporters expressed in intestine and liver. Human organic anion-transporting polypeptides (OATP) 1B1 and OATP1B3 contribute to hepatic uptake of bile acids such as taurocholic acid. However, the transport properties of individual bile acids are not well understood. Therefore, we selected HEK293 cells overexpressing OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 to evaluate the transport of five major human bile acids (cholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, deoxycholic acid, ursodeoxycholic acid, lithocholic acid) together withtheir glycine and taurine conjugates via OATP1B1 and OATP1B3. The bile acids were quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The present study revealed that cholic acid, chenodeoxyxcholic acid, and deoxycholic acid were transported by OATP1B1 and OATP1B3, while ursodeoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid were not significantly transported by OATPs. However, all the conjugated bile acids were taken up rapidly by OATP1B1 and OATP1B3. Kinetic analyses revealed the involvement of saturable OATP1B1- and OATP1B3-mediated transport of bile acids. The apparent Km values for OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 of the conjugated bile acids were similar (0.74–14.7 μM for OATP1B1 and 0.47–15.3 μM for OATP1B3). They exhibited higher affinity than cholic acid (47.1 μM for OATP1B1 and 42.2 μM for OATP1B3). Our results suggest that conjugated bile acids (glycine and taurine) are preferred to unconjugated bile acids as substrates for OATP1B1 and OATP1B3. PMID:28060902

  10. Association of Neuropeptide Y (NPY), Interleukin-1B (IL1B) Genetic Variants and Correlation of IL1B Transcript Levels with Vitiligo Susceptibility

    PubMed Central

    Laddha, Naresh C.; Dwivedi, Mitesh; Mansuri, Mohmmad Shoab; Singh, Mala; Patel, Hetanshi H.; Agarwal, Nishtha; Shah, Anish M.; Begum, Rasheedunnisa

    2014-01-01

    Background Vitiligo is a depigmenting disorder resulting from loss of functional melanocytes in the skin. NPY plays an important role in induction of immune response by acting on a variety of immune cells. NPY synthesis and release is governed by IL1B. Moreover, genetic variability in IL1B is reported to be associated with elevated NPY levels. Objectives Aim of the present study was to explore NPY promoter −399T/C (rs16147) and exon2 +1128T/C (rs16139) polymorphisms as well as IL1B promoter −511C/T (rs16944) polymorphism and to correlate IL1B transcript levels with vitiligo. Methods PCR-RFLP method was used to genotype NPY -399T/C SNP in 454 patients and 1226 controls; +1128T/C SNP in 575 patients and 1279 controls and IL1B −511C/T SNP in 448 patients and 785 controls from Gujarat. IL1B transcript levels in blood were also assessed in 105 controls and 95 patients using real-time PCR. Results Genotype and allele frequencies for NPY −399T/C, +1128T/C and IL1B −511C/T SNPs differed significantly (p<0.0001, p<0.0001; p = 0.0161, p = 0.0035 and p<0.0001, p<0.0001) between patients and controls. ‘TC’ haplotype containing minor alleles of NPY polymorphisms was significantly higher in patients and increased the risk of vitiligo by 2.3 fold (p<0.0001). Transcript levels of IL1B were significantly higher, in patients compared to controls (p = 0.0029), in patients with active than stable vitiligo (p = 0.015), also in female patients than male patients (p = 0.026). Genotype-phenotype correlation showed moderate association of IL1B -511C/T polymorphism with higher IL1B transcript levels. Trend analysis revealed significant difference between patients and controls for IL1B transcript levels with respect to different genotypes. Conclusion Our results suggest that NPY −399T/C, +1128T/C and IL1B −511C/T polymorphisms are associated with vitiligo and IL1B −511C/T SNP influences its transcript levels leading to increased risk for vitiligo in

  11. 26 CFR 1.681(b)-1 - Cross reference.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Cross reference. 1.681(b)-1 Section 1.681(b)-1 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY (CONTINUED) INCOME TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES Miscellaneous § 1.681(b)-1 Cross reference. For disallowance of certain charitable, etc...

  12. Isolation of a pH-Sensitive IgNAR Variable Domain from a Yeast-Displayed, Histidine-Doped Master Library.

    PubMed

    Könning, Doreen; Zielonka, Stefan; Sellmann, Carolin; Schröter, Christian; Grzeschik, Julius; Becker, Stefan; Kolmar, Harald

    2016-04-01

    In recent years, engineering of pH-sensitivity into antibodies as well as antibody-derived fragments has become more and more attractive for biomedical and biotechnological applications. Herein, we report the isolation of the first pH-sensitive IgNAR variable domain (vNAR), which was isolated from a yeast-displayed, semi-synthetic master library. This strategy enables the direct identification of pH-dependent binders from a histidine-enriched CDR3 library. Displayed vNAR variants contained two histidine substitutions on average at random positions in their 12-residue CDR3 loop. Upon screening of seven rounds against the proof-of-concept target EpCAM (selection for binding at pH 7.4 and decreased binding at pH 6.0), a single clone was obtained that showed specific and pH-dependent binding as characterized by yeast surface display and biolayer interferometry. Potential applications for such pH-dependent vNAR domains include their employment in tailored affinity chromatography, enabling mild elution protocols. Moreover, utilizing a master library for the isolation of pH-sensitive vNAR variants may be a generic strategy to obtain binding entities with prescribed characteristics for applications in biotechnology, diagnostics, and therapy.

  13. Histidine-derived nontoxic nitrogen-doped carbon dots for sensing and bioimaging applications.

    PubMed

    Huang, He; Li, Chunguang; Zhu, Shoujun; Wang, Hailong; Chen, Cailing; Wang, Zhaorui; Bai, Tianyu; Shi, Zhan; Feng, Shouhua

    2014-11-18

    Nitrogen-doped (N-doped) photoluminescent carbon dots (CDs) were prepared by a one-pot microwave-assisted hydrothermal treatment using histidine as the sole carbon source in the absence of acid, alkali, or metal ions. With a diameter of 2-5 nm, the synthesized CDs had apparent lattice fringes and exhibited an excitation-dependent photoluminescent behavior. The CDs were highly yielded, well-dispersed in aqueous solution, and showed high photostability in the solutions of a wide range of pH and salinity. They were used as probes to identify the presence of Fe(3+) ions with a detection limit of 10 nM. With confirmed nontoxicity, these CDs could enter the cancer cells, indicating a practical potential for cellular imaging and labeling.

  14. Interaction of digitalis-like compounds with liver uptake transporters NTCP, OATP1B1, and OATP1B3.

    PubMed

    Gozalpour, Elnaz; Greupink, Rick; Wortelboer, Heleen M; Bilos, Albert; Schreurs, Marieke; Russel, Frans G M; Koenderink, Jan B

    2014-06-02

    Digitalis-like compounds (DLCs) such as digoxin, digitoxin, and ouabain, also known as cardiac glycosides, are among the oldest pharmacological treatments for heart failure. The compounds have a narrow therapeutic window, while at the same time, DLC pharmacokinetics is prone to drug-drug interactions at the transport level. Hepatic transporters organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP) 1B1, OATP1B3, and Na(+)-dependent taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP) influence the disposition of a variety of drugs by mediating their uptake from blood into hepatocytes. The interaction of digoxin, digitoxin, and ouabain with hepatic uptake transporters has been studied before. However, here, we systematically investigated a much wider range of structurally related DLCs for their capability to inhibit or to be transported by these transporters in order to better understand the relation between the activity and chemical structure of this compound type. We studied the uptake and inhibitory potency of a series of 14 structurally related DLCs in Chinese hamster ovary cells expressing NTCP (CHO-NTCP) and human embryonic kidney cells expressing OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 (HEK-OATP1B1 and HEK-OATP1B3). The inhibitory effect of the DLCs was measured against taurocholic acid (TCA) uptake in CHO-NTCP cells and against uptake of β-estradiol 17-β-d-glucuronide (E217βG) in HEK-OATP1B1 and HEK-OATP1B3 cells. Proscillaridin A was the most effective inhibitor of NTCP-mediated TCA transport (IC50 = 22 μM), whereas digitoxin and digitoxigenin were the most potent inhibitors of OATP1B1 and OAPTP1B3, with IC50 values of 14.2 and 36 μM, respectively. Additionally, we found that the sugar moiety and hydroxyl groups of the DLCs play different roles in their interaction with NTCP, OATP1B1, and OATP1B3. The sugar moiety decreases the inhibition of NTCP and OATP1B3 transport activity, whereas it enhances the inhibitory potency against OATP1B1. Moreover, the hydroxyl group at position 12

  15. Slow histidine H/D exchange protocol for thermodynamic analysis of protein folding and stability using mass spectrometry.

    PubMed

    Tran, Duc T; Banerjee, Sambuddha; Alayash, Abdu I; Crumbliss, Alvin L; Fitzgerald, Michael C

    2012-02-07

    Described here is a mass spectrometry-based protocol to study the thermodynamic stability of proteins and protein-ligand complexes using the chemical denaturant dependence of the slow H/D exchange reaction of the imidazole C(2) proton in histidine side chains. The protocol is developed using several model protein systems including: ribonuclease (Rnase) A, myoglobin, bovine carbonic anhydrase (BCA) II, hemoglobin (Hb), and the hemoglobin-haptoglobin (Hb-Hp) protein complex. Folding free energies consistent with those previously determined by other more conventional techniques were obtained for the two-state folding proteins, Rnase A and myoglobin. The protocol successfully detected a previously observed partially unfolded intermediate stabilized in the BCA II folding/unfolding reaction, and it could be used to generate a K(d) value of 0.24 nM for the Hb-Hp complex. The compatibility of the protocol with conventional mass spectrometry-based proteomic sample preparation and analysis methods was also demonstrated in an experiment in which the protocol was used to detect the binding of zinc to superoxide dismutase in the yeast cell lysate sample. The yeast cell sample analyses also helped define the scope of the technique, which requires the presence of globally protected histidine residues in a protein's three-dimensional structure for successful application. © 2011 American Chemical Society

  16. Overexpression and enhanced specific activity of aldoketo reductases (AKR1B1 & AKR1B10) in human breast cancers.

    PubMed

    Reddy, K Ashok; Kumar, P Uday; Srinivasulu, M; Triveni, B; Sharada, K; Ismail, Ayesha; Reddy, G Bhanuprakash

    2017-02-01

    The incidence of breast cancer in India is on the rise and is rapidly becoming the primary cancer in Indian women. The aldoketo reductase (AKR) family has more than 190 proteins including aldose reductase (AKR1B1) and aldose reductase like protein (AKR1B10). Apart from liver cancer, the status of AKR1B1 and AKR1B10 with respect to their expression and activity has not been reported in other human cancers. We studied the specific activity and expression of AKR1B1 and AKR1B10 in breast non tumor and tumor tissues and in the blood. Fresh post-surgical breast cancer and non-cancer tissues and blood were collected from the subjects who were admitted for surgical therapy. Malignant, benign and pre-surgical chemotherapy samples were evaluated by histopathology scoring. Expression of AKR1B1 and AKR1B10 was carried out by immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC) while specific activity was determined spectrophotometrically. The specific activity of AKR1B1 was significantly higher in red blood cells (RBC) in all three grades of primary surgical and post-chemotherapy samples. Specific activity of both AKR1B1 and AKR1B10 increased in tumor samples compared to their corresponding non tumor samples (primary surgical and post-chemotherapy). Immunoblotting and IHC data also indicated overexpression of AKR1B1 in all grades of tumors compared to their corresponding non tumor samples. There was no change in the specific activity of AKR1B1 in benign samples compared to all grades of tumor and non-tumors. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. High-affinity gold nanoparticle pin to label and localize histidine-tagged protein in macromolecular assemblies

    PubMed Central

    Anthony, Kelsey C.; You, Changjiang; Piehler, Jacob; Pomeranz Krummel, Daniel A.

    2014-01-01

    SUMMARY There is significant demand for experimental approaches to aid protein localization in electron microscopy micrographs and ultimately in three-dimensional reconstructions of macromolecular assemblies. We report preparation and use of a reagent consisting of tris-nitrilotriacetic acid (tris-NTA) conjugated with a monofunctional gold nanoparticle (AuNPtris-NTA) for site-specific, non-covalent labeling of protein termini fused to a histidine-tag (His-tag). Multivalent binding of tris-NTA to a His-tag via complexed Ni(II) ions results in subnanomolar affinity and a defined 1:1 stoichiometry. Precise localization of AuNPtris-NTA labeled proteins by electron microscopy is further ensured by the reagent’s short conformationally restricted linker. We have employed AuNPtris-NTA to localize His-tagged proteins in an oligomeric ATPase and in the bacterial 50S ribosomal subunit. AuNPtris-NTA can specifically bind to the target proteins in these assemblies and is clearly discernible. Our new labeling reagent should find broad application in non-covalent site-specific labeling of protein termini to pinpoint their location in macromolecular assemblies. PMID:24560806

  18. The effect of amino acids and dipeptides on sodium-ion transport in rat enterocytes.

    PubMed

    Cheeseman, C I; Devlin, D

    1985-02-14

    Sodium efflux from isolated intestinal epithelial cells was measured during incubation with several different free amino acids and dipeptides. L-Leucine, which is cotransported with sodium across the brush border membrane, significantly stimulated the total sodium efflux and almost all of this increase involved the ouabain-sensitive flux, i.e., the active component. In contrast, glycyl-L-leucine had little or no effect on active sodium efflux either in the presence or absence of 0.1 mM bestatin, a peptide hydrolase inhibitor. A second dipeptide L-carnosine (beta-alanyl-L-histidine) which is poorly hydrolysed by enterocytes also had no effect upon sodium efflux. However, glycylglycine, which has been shown to be cotransported with sodium, did stimulate the ionic efflux. In addition, measurement of sodium uptake by sheets of small intestine showed that glycyl-L-leucine, carnosine and glycyl-L-proline failed to increase the uptake of the ion, while glycylglycine did significantly stimulate sodium uptake. These data indicate that some dipeptides are not cotransported with sodium, while others are. This suggests that there may well be multiple peptide transporters with very different characteristics in the brush border membrane of enterocytes.

  19. The pH Sensitivity of Murine Heat Shock Protein 47 (HSP47) Binding to Collagen Is Affected by Mutations in the Breach Histidine Cluster*

    PubMed Central

    Abdul-Wahab, Mohd Firdaus; Homma, Takayuki; Wright, Michael; Olerenshaw, Dee; Dafforn, Timothy R.; Nagata, Kazuhiro; Miller, Andrew D.

    2013-01-01

    Heat shock protein 47 (HSP47) is a single-substrate molecular chaperone crucial for collagen biosynthesis. Although its function is well established, the molecular mechanisms that govern binding to procollagen peptides and triple helices in the endoplasmic reticulum (followed by controlled release in the Golgi) are unclear. HSP47 binds procollagen at a neutral pH but releases at a pH similar to the pKa of the imidazole side chain of histidine residues. It thus seems likely that these residues are involved in this pH-dependent mechanism. Murine HSP47 has 14 histidine residues grouped into three clusters, known as the breach, gate, and shutter. Here, we report the use of histidine mutagenesis to demonstrate the relative contribution of these three clusters to HSP47 structure and the “pH switch.” Many of the tested mutants are silent; however, breach mutants H197A and H198A show binding but no apparent pH switch and are unable to control release. Another breach mutant, H191A, shows perturbed collagen release characteristics, consistent with observed perturbations in pH-driven trans-conformational changes. Thus, His-198, His-197 and His-191 are important (if not central) to HSP47 mechanism of binding/release to collagen. This is consistent with the breach cluster residues being well conserved across the HSP47 family. PMID:23212911

  20. Changes in wall teichoic acid during the rod-sphere transition of Bacillus subtilis 168.

    PubMed Central

    Pollack, J H; Neuhaus, F C

    1994-01-01

    Wall teichoic acid (WTA) is essential for the growth of Bacillus subtilis 168. To clarify the function of this polymer, the WTAs of strains 168, 104 rodB1, and 113 tagF1 (rodC1) grown at 32 and 42 degrees C were characterized. At the restrictive temperature, the rodB1 and tagF1 (rodC1) mutants undergo a rod-to-sphere transition that is correlated with changes in the WTA content of the cell wall. The amount of WTA decreased 33% in strain 104 rodB1 and 84% in strain 113 tagF1 (rodC1) when they were grown at the restrictive temperature. The extent of alpha-D-glucosylation (0.84) was not affected by growth at the higher temperature in these strains. The degree of D-alanylation decreased from 0.22 to 0.10 in the rodB1 mutant but remained constant (0.12) in the tagF1 (rodC1) mutant at both temperatures. Under these conditions, the degree of D-alanylation in the parent strain decreased from 0.27 to 0.21. The chain lengths of WTA in strains 168 and 104 rodB1 grown at both temperatures were approximately 53 residues, with a range of 45 to 60. In contrast, although the chain length of WTA from the tagF1 (rodC1) mutant at 32 degrees C was similar to that of strains 168 and 104 rodB1, it was approximately eight residues at the restrictive temperature. The results suggested that the rodB1 mutant is partially deficient in completed poly(glycerophosphate) chains. The precise biochemical defect in this mutant remains to be determined. The results for strain 113 tagF1(rodC1) are consistent with the temperature-sensitive defect in the CDP-glycerol:poly(glycerophosphate) glycerophosphotransferase (H. M. Pooley, F.-X. Abellan, and D. Karamata, J. Bacteriol. 174:646-649, 1992). Images PMID:7961496

  1. Changes at the KinA PAS-A Dimerization Interface Influence Histidine Kinase Function

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

    Lee, James; Tomchick, Diana R.; Brautigam, Chad A.

    2008-11-12

    The Bacillus subtilis KinA protein is a histidine protein kinase that controls the commitment of this organism to sporulate in response to nutrient deprivation and several other conditions. Prior studies indicated that the N-terminal Per-ARNT-Sim domain (PAS-A) plays a critical role in the catalytic activity of this enzyme, as demonstrated by the significant decrease of the autophosphorylation rate of a KinA protein lacking this domain. On the basis of the environmental sensing role played by PAS domains in a wide range of proteins, including other bacterial sensor kinases, it has been suggested that the PAS-A domain plays an important regulatorymore » role in KinA function. We have investigated this potential by using a combination of biophysical and biochemical methods to examine PAS-A structure and function, both in isolation and within the intact protein. Here, we present the X-ray crystal structure of the KinA PAS-A domain, showing that it crystallizes as a homodimer using {beta}-sheet/{beta}-sheet packing interactions as observed for several other PAS domain complexes. Notably, we observed two dimers with tertiary and quaternary structure differences in the crystalline lattice, indicating significant structural flexibility in these domains. To confirm that KinA PAS-A also forms dimers in solution, we used a combination of NMR spectroscopy, gel filtration chromatography, and analytical ultracentrifugation, the results of which are all consistent with the crystallographic results. We experimentally tested the importance of several residues at the dimer interface using site-directed mutagenesis, finding changes in the PAS-A domain that significantly alter KinA enzymatic activity in vitro and in vivo. These results support the importance of PAS domains within KinA and other histidine kinases and suggest possible routes for natural or artificial regulation of kinase activity.« less

  2. OnpA, an Unusual Flavin-Dependent Monooxygenase Containing a Cytochrome b5 Domain

    PubMed Central

    Xiao, Yi; Liu, Ting-Ting; Dai, Hui; Zhang, Jun-Jie; Liu, Hong; Tang, Huiru; Leak, David J.

    2012-01-01

    ortho-Nitrophenol 2-monooxygenase (EC 1.14.13.31) from Alcaligenes sp. strain NyZ215 catalyzes monooxygenation of ortho-nitrophenol to form catechol via ortho-benzoquinone. Sequence analysis of this onpA-encoded enzyme revealed that it contained a flavin-binding monooxygenase domain and a heme-binding cytochrome b5 domain. OnpA was purified to homogeneity as a His-tagged protein and was considered a monomer, as determined by gel filtration. FAD and heme were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and HPLC-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) as cofactors in this enzyme, and quantitative analysis indicated that 1 mol of the purified recombinant OnpA contained 0.66 mol of FAD and 0.20 mol of heme. However, the enzyme activity of OnpA was increased by 60% and 450% after addition of FAD and hemin, respectively, suggesting that the optimal stoichiometry was 1:1:1. In addition, site-directed mutagenesis experiments confirmed that two highly conserved histidines located in the cytochrome b5 domain were associated with binding of the heme, and the cytochrome b5 domain was involved in the OnpA activity. These results indicate that OnpA is an unusual FAD-dependent monooxygenase containing a fused cytochrome b5 domain that is essential for its activity. Therefore, we here demonstrate a link between cytochrome b5 and flavin-dependent monooxygenases. PMID:22267507

  3. Human aldo-keto reductases 1B1 and 1B10: a comparative study on their enzyme activity toward electrophilic carbonyl compounds.

    PubMed

    Shen, Yi; Zhong, Linlin; Johnson, Stephen; Cao, Deliang

    2011-05-30

    Aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B1 (AKR1B1, 1B1 in brief) and aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B10 (AKR1B10, 1B10 in brief) are two proteins with high similarities in their amino acid sequences, stereo structures, and substrate specificity. However, these two proteins exhibit distinct tissue distributions; 1B10 is primarily expressed in the gastrointestinal tract and adrenal gland, whereas 1B1 is ubiquitously present in all tissues/organs, suggesting their difference in biological functions. This study evaluated in parallel the enzyme activity of 1B1 and 1B10 toward alpha, beta-unsaturated carbonyl compounds with cellular and dietary origins, including acrolein, crotonaldehyde, 4-hydroxynonenal, trans-2-hexenal, and trans-2,4-hexadienal. Our results showed that 1B10 had much better enzyme activity and turnover rates toward these chemicals than 1B1. By detecting the enzymatic products using high-performance liquid chromatography, we measured their activity to carbonyl compounds at low concentrations. Our data showed that 1B10 efficiently reduced the tested carbonyl compounds at physiological levels, but 1B1 was less effective. Ectopically expressed 1B10 in 293T cells effectively eliminated 4-hydroxynonenal at 5 μM by reducing to 1,4-dihydroxynonene, whereas endogenously expressed 1B1 did not. The 1B1 and 1B10 both showed enzyme activity to glutathione-conjugated carbonyl compounds, but 1B1 appeared more active in general. Together our data suggests that 1B10 is more effectual in eliminating free electrophilic carbonyl compounds, but 1B1 seems more important in the further detoxification of glutathione-conjugated carbonyl compounds. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. MISR Level 1A CCD, 1B1, 1B2, and Browse Products

    Atmospheric Science Data Center

    2013-04-01

    ... ESDT Product File Name Prefix Current Quality Designations MI1B2E MISR_AM1_GRP_ELLIPSOID_GM, ... should be used. All calibration files for the life of the mission have been reprocessed using the best available calibration. ...

  5. Structural modeling of tissue-specific mitochondrial alanyl-tRNA synthetase (AARS2) defects predicts differential effects on aminoacylation

    PubMed Central

    Euro, Liliya; Konovalova, Svetlana; Asin-Cayuela, Jorge; Tulinius, Már; Griffin, Helen; Horvath, Rita; Taylor, Robert W.; Chinnery, Patrick F.; Schara, Ulrike; Thorburn, David R.; Suomalainen, Anu; Chihade, Joseph; Tyynismaa, Henna

    2015-01-01

    The accuracy of mitochondrial protein synthesis is dependent on the coordinated action of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (mtARSs) and the mitochondrial DNA-encoded tRNAs. The recent advances in whole-exome sequencing have revealed the importance of the mtARS proteins for mitochondrial pathophysiology since nearly every nuclear gene for mtARS (out of 19) is now recognized as a disease gene for mitochondrial disease. Typically, defects in each mtARS have been identified in one tissue-specific disease, most commonly affecting the brain, or in one syndrome. However, mutations in the AARS2 gene for mitochondrial alanyl-tRNA synthetase (mtAlaRS) have been reported both in patients with infantile-onset cardiomyopathy and in patients with childhood to adulthood-onset leukoencephalopathy. We present here an investigation of the effects of the described mutations on the structure of the synthetase, in an effort to understand the tissue-specific outcomes of the different mutations. The mtAlaRS differs from the other mtARSs because in addition to the aminoacylation domain, it has a conserved editing domain for deacylating tRNAs that have been mischarged with incorrect amino acids. We show that the cardiomyopathy phenotype results from a single allele, causing an amino acid change R592W in the editing domain of AARS2, whereas the leukodystrophy mutations are located in other domains of the synthetase. Nevertheless, our structural analysis predicts that all mutations reduce the aminoacylation activity of the synthetase, because all mtAlaRS domains contribute to tRNA binding for aminoacylation. According to our model, the cardiomyopathy mutations severely compromise aminoacylation whereas partial activity is retained by the mutation combinations found in the leukodystrophy patients. These predictions provide a hypothesis for the molecular basis of the distinct tissue-specific phenotypic outcomes. PMID:25705216

  6. Intrinsic fluorescence spectra characteristics of vitamin B1, B2, and B6

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yang, Hui; Xiao, Xue; Zhao, Xuesong; Hu, Lan; Lv, Caofang; Yin, Zhangkun

    2015-11-01

    This paper presents the intrinsic fluorescence characteristics of vitamin B1, B2 and B6 measured with 3D fluorescence Spectrophotometer. Three strong fluorescence areas of vitamin B2 locate at λex/λem=270/525nm, 370/525nm and 450/525nm, one fluorescence areas of vitamin B1 locates at λex/λem=370/460nm, two fluorescence areas of vitamin B6 locates at λex/λem=250/370nm and 325/370nm were found. The influence of pH of solution to the fluorescence profile was also discussed. Using the PARAFAC algorithm, 10 vitamin B1, B2 and B6 mixed solutions were successfully decomposed, and the emission profiles, excitation profiles, central wavelengths and the concentration of the three components were retrieved precisely through about 5 iteration times.

  7. Comparison of genetic variations of the SLCO1B1, SLCO1B3, and SLCO2B1 genes among five ethnic groups.

    PubMed

    Namgoong, Suhg; Cheong, Hyun Sub; Kim, Ji On; Kim, Lyoung Hyo; Na, Han Sung; Koh, In Song; Chung, Myeon Woo; Shin, Hyoung Doo

    2015-11-01

    Organic anion-transporting polypeptide (OATP; gene symbol, SLCO) transporters are generally involved in the uptake of multiple drugs and their metabolites at most epithelial barriers. The pattern of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in these transporters may be determinants of interindividual variability in drug disposition and response. The objective of this study was to define the distribution of SNPs of three SLCO genes, SLCO1B1, SLCO1B3, and SLCO2B1, in a Korean population and other ethnic groups. The study was screened using the Illumina GoldenGate assay for genomic DNA from 450 interethnic subjects, including 11 pharmacogenetic core variants and 76 HapMap tagging SNPs. The genotype distribution of the Korean population was similar to East Asian populations, but significantly different from African American and European American cohorts. These interethnic differences will be useful information for prospective studies, including genetic association and pharmacogenetic studies of drug metabolism by SLCO families. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Jumonji/Arid1b (Jarid1b) protein modulates human esophageal cancer cell growth

    PubMed Central

    KANO, YOSHIHIRO; KONNO, MASAMITSU; OHTA, KATSUYA; HARAGUCHI, NAOTSUGU; NISHIKAWA, SHIMPEI; KAGAWA, YOSHINORI; HAMABE, ATSUSHI; HASEGAWA, SHINICHIRO; OGAWA, HISATAKA; FUKUSUMI, TAKAHITO; NOGUCHI, YUKO; OZAKI, MIYUKI; KUDO, TOSHIHIRO; SAKAI, DAISUKE; SATOH, TAROH; ISHII, MASARU; MIZOHATA, EIICHI; INOUE, TAKESHI; MORI, MASAKI; DOKI, YUICHIRO; ISHII, HIDESHI

    2013-01-01

    Although esophageal cancer is highly heterogeneous and the involvement of epigenetic regulation of cancer stem cells is highly suspected, the biological significance of epigenetically modified molecules that regulate different subpopulations remains to be firmly established. Using esophageal cancer cells, we investigated the functional roles of the H3K4 demethylase Jumonji/Arid1b (Jarid1b) (Kdm5b/Plu-1/Rbp2-h1), an epigenetic factor that is required for continuous cell growth in melanoma. JARID1B knockdown resulted in the suppression of esophageal cancer cell growth, sphere formation and invasion ability and was associated with loss of epithelial marker expression. However, these inhibitory effects observed on tumor formation were reverted subsequent to subcutaneous inoculation of these cells into immune-deficient mice. These results indicated that JARID1B plays a role in maintaining cancer stem cells in the esophagus and justifies the rationale for studying the effects of continuous inhibition of this epigenetic factor in esophageal cancer. PMID:24649241

  9. False-negative rapid diagnostic tests for malaria and deletion of the histidine-rich repeat region of the hrp2 gene.

    PubMed

    Koita, Ousmane A; Doumbo, Ogobara K; Ouattara, Amed; Tall, Lalla K; Konaré, Aoua; Diakité, Mahamadou; Diallo, Mouctar; Sagara, Issaka; Masinde, Godfred L; Doumbo, Safiatou N; Dolo, Amagana; Tounkara, Anatole; Traoré, Issa; Krogstad, Donald J

    2012-02-01

    We identified 480 persons with positive thick smears for asexual Plasmodium falciparum parasites, of whom 454 had positive rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for the histidine-rich protein 2 (HRP2) product of the hrp2 gene and 26 had negative tests. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification for the histidine-rich repeat region of that gene was negative in one-half (10/22) of false-negative specimens available, consistent with spontaneous deletion. False-negative RDTs were found only in persons with asymptomatic infections, and multiplicities of infection (MOIs) were lower in persons with false-negative RDTs (both P < 0.001). These results show that parasites that fail to produce HRP2 can cause patent bloodstream infections and false-negative RDT results. The importance of these observations is likely to increase as malaria control improves, because lower MOIs are associated with false-negative RDTs and false-negative RDTs are more frequent in persons with asymptomatic infections. These findings suggest that the use of HRP2-based RDTs should be reconsidered.

  10. ALDH1B1 links alcohol consumption and diabetes.

    PubMed

    Singh, Surendra; Chen, Ying; Matsumoto, Akiko; Orlicky, David J; Dong, Hongbin; Thompson, David C; Vasiliou, Vasilis

    2015-08-07

    Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1B1 (ALDH1B1) is a mitochondrial enzyme sharing 65% and 72% sequence identity with ALDH1A1 and ALDH2 proteins, respectively. Compared to the latter two ALDH isozymes, little is known about the physiological functions of ALDH1B1. Studies in humans indicate that ALDH1B1 may be associated with alcohol sensitivity and stem cells. Our recent in vitro studies using human ALDH1B1 showed that it metabolizes acetaldehyde and retinaldehyde. To investigate the in vivo role of ALDH1B1, we generated and characterized a global Aldh1b1 knockout mouse line. These knockout (KO) mice are fertile and show overtly good health. However, ethanol pharmacokinetic analysis revealed ∼40% increase in blood acetaldehyde levels in KO mice. Interestingly, the KO mice exhibited higher fasting blood glucose levels. Collectively, we show for the first time the functional in vivo role of ALDH1B1 in acetaldehyde metabolism and in maintaining glucose homeostasis. This mouse model is a valuable tool to investigate the mechanism by which alcohol may promote the development of diabetes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Molecular dynamics and information on possible sites of interaction of intramyocellular metabolites in vivo from resolved dipolar couplings in localized 1H NMR spectra

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schröder, Leif; Schmitz, Christian; Bachert, Peter

    2004-12-01

    Proton NMR resonances of the endogenous metabolites creatine and phosphocreatine ((P)Cr), taurine (Tau), and carnosine (Cs, β-alanyl- L-histidine) were studied with regard to residual dipolar couplings and molecular mobility. We present an analysis of the direct 1H- 1H interaction that provides information on motional reorientation of subgroups in these molecules in vivo. For this purpose, localized 1H NMR experiments were performed on m. gastrocnemius of healthy volunteers using a 1.5-T clinical whole-body MR scanner. We evaluated the observable dipolar coupling strength SD0 ( S = order parameter) of the (P)Cr-methyl triplet and the Tau-methylene doublet by means of the apparent line splitting. These were compared to the dipolar coupling strength of the (P)Cr-methylene doublet. In contrast to the aliphatic protons of (P)Cr and Tau, the aromatic H2 ( δ = 8 ppm) and H4 ( δ = 7 ppm) protons of the imidazole ring of Cs exhibit second-order spectra at 1.5 T. This effect is the consequence of incomplete transition from Zeeman to Paschen-Back regime and allows a determination of SD0 from H2 and H4 of Cs as an alternative to evaluating the multiplet splitting which can be measured directly in high-resolution 1H NMR spectra. Experimental data showed striking differences in the mobility of the metabolites when the dipolar coupling constant D0 (calculated with the internuclear distance known from molecular geometry in the case of complete absence of molecular dynamics and motion) is used for comparison. The aliphatic signals involve very small order parameters S ≈ (1.4 - 3) × 10 -4 indicating rapid reorientation of the corresponding subgroups in these metabolites. In contrast, analysis of the Cs resonances yielded S ≈ (113 - 137) × 10 -4. Thus, the immobilization of the Cs imidazole ring owing to an anisotropic cellular substructure in human m. gastrocnemius is much more effective than for (P)Cr and Tau subgroups. Furthermore, 1H NMR experiments on aqueous model

  12. The accommodation index measures the perturbation associated with insertions and deletions in coiled‐coils: Application to understand signaling in histidine kinases

    PubMed Central

    Schmidt, Nathan W.; Grigoryan, Gevorg

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Coiled‐coils are essential components of many protein complexes. First discovered in structural proteins such as keratins, they have since been found to figure largely in the assembly and dynamics required for diverse functions, including membrane fusion, signal transduction and motors. Coiled‐coils have a characteristic repeating seven‐residue geometric and sequence motif, which is sometimes interrupted by the insertion of one or more residues. Such insertions are often highly conserved and critical to interdomain communication in signaling proteins such as bacterial histidine kinases. Here we develop the “accommodation index” as a parameter that allows automatic detection and classification of insertions based on the three dimensional structure of a protein. This method allows precise identification of the type of insertion and the “accommodation length” over which the insertion is structurally accommodated. A simple theory is presented that predicts the structural perturbations of 1, 3, 4 residue insertions as a function of the length over which the insertion is accommodated. Analysis of experimental structures is in good agreement with theory, and shows that short accommodation lengths give rise to greater perturbation of helix packing angles, changes in local helical phase, and increased structural asymmetry relative to long accommodation lengths. Cytoplasmic domains of histidine kinases in different signaling states display large changes in their accommodation lengths, which can now be seen to underlie diverse structural transitions including symmetry/asymmetry and local variations in helical phase that accompany signal transduction. PMID:27977891

  13. 26 CFR 1.677(b)-1 - Trusts for support.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Trusts for support. 1.677(b)-1 Section 1.677(b... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES Grantors and Others Treated As Substantial Owners § 1.677(b)-1 Trusts for support. (a) Section 677(b) provides that a grantor is not treated as the owner of a trust merely because its...

  14. A Categorification of the Crystal Isomorphism B 1,1 B + B(Lambda i) = B(Lambdasigma (i) and a Graphical Calculus for the Shifted Symmetric Functions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kvinge, Henry

    We prove two results at the intersection of Lie theory and the representation theory of symmetric groups, Hecke algebras, and their generalizations. The first is a categorification of the crystal isomorphism B. (1,1) tensor B1,1B(Lambdai ) ≅ B(Lambdasigma (i)). Here B(Lambdai and B(Lambda sigma(i)) are two affine type highest weight crystals of weight Lambdai and Lambdasigma (i) respectively, sigma is a specific map from the Dynkin indexing set I to itself, and B1,1 is a Kirillov-Reshetikhin crystal. We show that this crystal isomorphism is in fact the shadow of a richer module-theoretic phenomenon in the representation theory of Khovanov-Lauda-Rouquier algebras of classical affine type. Our second result identifies the center EndH'( 1) of Khovanov's Heisenberg category H', as the algebra of shifted symmetric functions Lambda* of Okounkov and Olshanski, i.e. End H'(1) ≅ Lambda*. This isomorphism provides us with a graphical calculus for Lambda*. It also allows us to describe EndH'(1) in terms of the transition and co-transition measure of Kerov and the noncommutative probability spaces of Biane.

  15. Sensor histidine kinase is a β-lactam receptor and induces resistance to β-lactam antibiotics.

    PubMed

    Li, Lu; Wang, Qiyao; Zhang, Hui; Yang, Minjun; Khan, Mazhar I; Zhou, Xiaohui

    2016-02-09

    β-Lactams disrupt bacterial cell wall synthesis, and these agents are the most widely used antibiotics. One of the principle mechanisms by which bacteria resist the action of β-lactams is by producing β-lactamases, enzymes that degrade β-lactams. In Gram-negative bacteria, production of β-lactamases is often induced in response to the antibiotic-associated damage to the cell wall. Here, we have identified a previously unidentified mechanism that governs β-lactamase production. In the Gram-negative enteric pathogen Vibrio parahaemolyticus, we found a histidine kinase/response regulator pair (VbrK/VbrR) that controls expression of a β-lactamase. Mutants lacking either VbrK or VbrR do not produce the β-lactamase and are no longer resistant to β-lactam antibiotics. Notably, VbrK autophosphorylation is activated by β-lactam antibiotics, but not by other lactams. However, single amino acid substitutions in the putative periplasmic binding pocket of VbrK leads its phosphorylation in response to both β-lactam and other lactams, suggesting that this kinase is a β-lactam receptor that can directly detect β-lactam antibiotics instead of detecting the damage to cell wall resulting from β-lactams. In strong support of this idea, we found that purified periplasmic sensor domain of VbrK binds penicillin, and that such binding is critical for VbrK autophosphorylation and β-lactamase production. Direct recognition of β-lactam antibiotics by a histidine kinase receptor may represent an evolutionarily favorable mechanism to defend against β-lactam antibiotics.

  16. Sensor histidine kinase is a β-lactam receptor and induces resistance to β-lactam antibiotics

    PubMed Central

    Li, Lu; Wang, Qiyao; Zhang, Hui; Yang, Minjun; Khan, Mazhar I.; Zhou, Xiaohui

    2016-01-01

    β-Lactams disrupt bacterial cell wall synthesis, and these agents are the most widely used antibiotics. One of the principle mechanisms by which bacteria resist the action of β-lactams is by producing β-lactamases, enzymes that degrade β-lactams. In Gram-negative bacteria, production of β-lactamases is often induced in response to the antibiotic-associated damage to the cell wall. Here, we have identified a previously unidentified mechanism that governs β-lactamase production. In the Gram-negative enteric pathogen Vibrio parahaemolyticus, we found a histidine kinase/response regulator pair (VbrK/VbrR) that controls expression of a β-lactamase. Mutants lacking either VbrK or VbrR do not produce the β-lactamase and are no longer resistant to β-lactam antibiotics. Notably, VbrK autophosphorylation is activated by β-lactam antibiotics, but not by other lactams. However, single amino acid substitutions in the putative periplasmic binding pocket of VbrK leads its phosphorylation in response to both β-lactam and other lactams, suggesting that this kinase is a β-lactam receptor that can directly detect β-lactam antibiotics instead of detecting the damage to cell wall resulting from β-lactams. In strong support of this idea, we found that purified periplasmic sensor domain of VbrK binds penicillin, and that such binding is critical for VbrK autophosphorylation and β-lactamase production. Direct recognition of β-lactam antibiotics by a histidine kinase receptor may represent an evolutionarily favorable mechanism to defend against β-lactam antibiotics. PMID:26831117

  17. Simultaneously achieve soluble expression and biomimetic immobilization of Candida antarctica lipase B by introducing polyamine tags.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Xiaoxue; Han, Yu; Lv, Zheng; Tian, Xuemei; Li, Han; Xie, Panpan; Zheng, Liangyu

    2017-05-10

    Polyamine tags fused in Candida antarctica lipase B (CalB) can help achieve high soluble expression of CalB in E. coli and can directly mediate silicification, which leads to rapid formation of a CalB-silica particle complex through a one-step approach. After optimization experiments, the fused lipase CalB tagged with 6-histidine at the N terminal and 10-lysine at the C terminal (6His-CalB-10Lys) is effectively expressed with high solubility (0.1mg/mL) and specific activity (10.1U/mg), and easily cross-linked in silica particles with a high immobilization efficiency of 96.8% and activity recovery of 81.5%. The immobilized lipase 6His-CalB-10Lys exhibits excellent performance at broad temperature ranges, high thermal and storage stabilities, and superior reusability. Michaelis-Menten kinetics indicates that the affinity and enantioselectivity of the free and immobilized 6His-CalB-10Lys toward the substrate are better than that of commercial Novozym 435 in enantioselective resolution of (S)-N-(2-ethyl-6-methylphenyl) alanine ((S)-NEMPA). The strategies described in this paper are useful for the facile expression and construction of diverse enzyme systems with high efficiency and excellent recyclability. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Lentiviral infection of proliferating brain macrophages in HIV and simian immunodeficiency virus encephalitis despite sterile alpha motif and histidine-aspartate domain-containing protein 1 expression

    PubMed Central

    Lindgren, Allison A.; Filipowicz, Adam R.; Hattler, Julian B.; Kim, Soon Ok; Chung, Hye Kyung; Kuroda, Marcelo J.; Johnson, Edward M.; Kim, Woong-Ki

    2018-01-01

    Objective: HIV-1 infection of the brain and related cognitive impairment remain prevalent in HIV-1-infected individuals despite combination antiretroviral therapy. Sterile alpha motif and histidine-aspartate domain-containing protein 1 (SAMHD1) is a newly identified host restriction factor that blocks the replication of HIV-1 and other retroviruses in myeloid cells. Cell cycle-regulated phosphorylation at residue Thr592 and viral protein X (Vpx)-mediated degradation of SAMHD1 have been shown to bypass SAMHD1 restriction in vitro. Herein, we investigated expression and phosphorylation of SAMHD1 in vivo in relation to macrophage infection and proliferation during the neuropathogenesis of HIV-1 and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) encephalitis. Methods: Using brain and other tissues from uninfected and SIV-infected macaques with or without encephalitis, we performed immunohistochemistry, multilabel fluorescence microscopy and western blot to examine the expression, localization and phosphorylation of SAMHD1. Results: The number of SAMHD1+ nuclei increased in encephalitic brains despite the presence of Vpx. Many of these cells were perivascular macrophages, although subsets of SAMHD1+ microglia and endothelial cells were also observed. The SAMHD1+ macrophages were shown to be both infected and proliferating. Moreover, the presence of cycling SAMHD1+ brain macrophages was confirmed in the tissue of HIV-1-infected patients with encephalitis. Finally, western blot analysis of brain-protein extracts from SIV-infected macaques showed that SAMHD1 protein exists in the brain mainly as an inactive Thr592-phosphorylated form. Conclusion: The ability of SAMHD1 to act as a restriction factor for SIV/HIV in the brain is likely bypassed in proliferating brain macrophages through the phosphorylation-mediated inactivation, not Vpx-mediated degradation of SAMHD1. PMID:29698322

  19. Behavioral and neurochemical characterization of mice deficient in the phosphodiesterase-1B (PDE1B) enzyme.

    PubMed

    Siuciak, J A; McCarthy, S A; Chapin, D S; Reed, T M; Vorhees, C V; Repaske, D R

    2007-07-01

    PDE1B is a calcium-dependent cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase that is highly expressed in the striatum. In order to investigate the physiological role of PDE1B in the central nervous system, PDE1B knockout mice (C57BL/6N background) were assessed in behavioral tests and their brains were assayed for monoamine content. In a variety of well-characterized behavioral tasks, including the elevated plus maze (anxiety-like behavior), forced swim test (depression-like behavior), hot plate (nociception) and two cognition models (passive avoidance and acquisition of conditioned avoidance responding), PDE1B knockout mice performed similarly to wild-type mice. PDE1B knockout mice showed increased baseline exploratory activity when compared to wild-type mice. When challenged with amphetamine (AMPH) and methamphetamine (METH), male and female PDE1B knockout mice showed an exaggerated locomotor response. Male PDE1B knockout mice also showed increased locomotor responses to higher doses of phencyclidine (PCP) and MK-801; however, this effect was not consistently observed in female knockout mice. In the striatum, increased dopamine turnover (DOPAC/DA and HVA/DA ratios) was found in both male and female PDE1B knockout mice. Striatal serotonin (5-HT) levels were also decreased in PDE1B knockout mice, although levels of the metabolite, 5HIAA, were unchanged. The present studies demonstrate increased striatal dopamine turnover in PDE1B knockout mice associated with increased baseline motor activity and an exaggerated locomotor response to dopaminergic stimulants such as methamphetamine and amphetamine. These data further support a role for PDE1B in striatal function.

  20. A generic approach to engineer antibody pH-switches using combinatorial histidine scanning libraries and yeast display.

    PubMed

    Schröter, Christian; Günther, Ralf; Rhiel, Laura; Becker, Stefan; Toleikis, Lars; Doerner, Achim; Becker, Janine; Schönemann, Andreas; Nasu, Daichi; Neuteboom, Berend; Kolmar, Harald; Hock, Björn

    2015-01-01

    There is growing interest in the fast and robust engineering of protein pH-sensitivity that aims to reduce binding at acidic pH, compared to neutral pH. Here, we describe a novel strategy for the incorporation of pH-sensitive antigen binding functions into antibody variable domains using combinatorial histidine scanning libraries and yeast surface display. The strategy allows simultaneous screening for both, high affinity binding at pH 7.4 and pH-sensitivity, and excludes conventional negative selection steps. As proof of concept, we applied this strategy to incorporate pH-dependent antigen binding into the complementary-determining regions of adalimumab. After 3 consecutive rounds of separate heavy and light chain library screening, pH-sensitive variants could be isolated. Heavy and light chain mutations were combined, resulting in 3 full-length antibody variants that revealed sharp, reversible pH-dependent binding profiles. Dissociation rate constants at pH 6.0 increased 230- to 780-fold, while high affinity binding at pH 7.4 in the sub-nanomolar range was retained. Furthermore, binding to huFcRn and thermal stability were not affected by histidine substitutions. Overall, this study emphasizes a generalizable strategy for engineering pH-switch functions potentially applicable to a variety of antibodies and further proteins-based therapeutics.

  1. 26 CFR 1.7702B-1 - Consumer protection provisions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 13 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Consumer protection provisions. 1.7702B-1 Section 1.7702B-1 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY (CONTINUED) INCOME TAX (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) General Actuarial Valuations § 1.7702B-1 Consumer protection...

  2. Substitutions of PrP N-terminal histidine residues modulate scrapie disease pathogenesis and incubation time in transgenic mice

    PubMed Central

    Eigenbrod, Sabina; Frick, Petra; Bertsch, Uwe; Mitteregger-Kretzschmar, Gerda; Mielke, Janina; Maringer, Marko; Piening, Niklas; Hepp, Alexander; Daude, Nathalie; Windl, Otto; Levin, Johannes; Giese, Armin; Sakthivelu, Vignesh; Tatzelt, Jörg

    2017-01-01

    Prion diseases have been linked to impaired copper homeostasis and copper induced-oxidative damage to the brain. Divalent metal ions, such as Cu2+ and Zn2+, bind to cellular prion protein (PrPC) at octapeptide repeat (OR) and non-OR sites within the N-terminal half of the protein but information on the impact of such binding on conversion to the misfolded isoform often derives from studies using either OR and non-OR peptides or bacterially-expressed recombinant PrP. Here we created new transgenic mouse lines expressing PrP with disrupted copper binding sites within all four histidine-containing OR's (sites 1–4, H60G, H68G, H76G, H84G, "TetraH>G" allele) or at site 5 (composed of residues His-95 and His-110; "H95G" allele) and monitored the formation of misfolded PrP in vivo. Novel transgenic mice expressing PrP(TetraH>G) at levels comparable to wild-type (wt) controls were susceptible to mouse-adapted scrapie strain RML but showed significantly prolonged incubation times. In contrast, amino acid replacement at residue 95 accelerated disease progression in corresponding PrP(H95G) mice. Neuropathological lesions in terminally ill transgenic mice were similar to scrapie-infected wt controls, but less severe. The pattern of PrPSc deposition, however, was not synaptic as seen in wt animals, but instead dense globular plaque-like accumulations of PrPSc in TgPrP(TetraH>G) mice and diffuse PrPSc deposition in (TgPrP(H95G) mice), were observed throughout all brain sections. We conclude that OR and site 5 histidine substitutions have divergent phenotypic impacts and that cis interactions between the OR region and the site 5 region modulate pathogenic outcomes by affecting the PrP globular domain. PMID:29220360

  3. A dynamic N-capping motif in cytochrome b5: evidence for a pH-controlled conformational switch.

    PubMed

    Davis, Ronald B; Lecomte, Juliette T J

    2006-05-01

    Apocytochrome b5 is a marginally stable protein exhibiting under native conditions a slow conformational exchange in its C-terminal region. The affected elements of secondary structure include a 3(10)-helix containing at its N-terminus a histidine Ncap and a subsequent proline. Participation of the neutral histidine side-chain in backbone amide capping lowers the imidazole pKa. To explore the nature of the conformational exchange in the protein and determine whether it is related to cis-trans isomerization of the His-Pro bond, three octapeptides encompassing the helix were synthesized and studied by NMR spectroscopy. One corresponded to the wild-type sequence, the second was the D-histidine epimer, and the third contained an alanine in place of the proline. It was found that the rates of cis-trans interconversion in the proline-containing peptides were slower than the rates of the conformational exchange in the protein. In addition, the wild-type peptide hinted at a predisposition for Ncap formation when in the trans configuration. Analysis of the pH response of the peptides and protein suggested that at pH near neutral, the conformational exchange detected in the protein involved only species with a trans His-Pro bond and could be approximated with a three-state model by which the terminal helix sampled a locally unfolded state. This state, which contained an uncapped histidine with a normal pKa, partitioned into neutral and protonated populations according to pH. The intrinsic conformational bias of the wild-type peptide and the pH-driven equilibria illustrated how a 3(10)-element could serve as a nucleation site for structural rearrangement. 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  4. The histidine transporter SLC15A4 coordinates mTOR-dependent inflammatory responses and pathogenic antibody production.

    PubMed

    Kobayashi, Toshihiko; Shimabukuro-Demoto, Shiho; Yoshida-Sugitani, Reiko; Furuyama-Tanaka, Kaori; Karyu, Hitomi; Sugiura, Yuki; Shimizu, Yukiko; Hosaka, Toshiaki; Goto, Motohito; Kato, Norihiro; Okamura, Tadashi; Suematsu, Makoto; Yokoyama, Shigeyuki; Toyama-Sorimachi, Noriko

    2014-09-18

    SLC15A4 is a lysosome-resident, proton-coupled amino-acid transporter that moves histidine and oligopeptides from inside the lysosome to the cytosol of eukaryotic cells. SLC15A4 is required for Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7)- and TLR9-mediated type I interferon (IFN-I) productions in plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) and is involved in the pathogenesis of certain diseases including lupus-like autoimmunity. How SLC15A4 contributes to diseases is largely unknown. Here we have shown that B cell SLC15A4 was crucial for TLR7-triggered IFN-I and autoantibody productions in a mouse lupus model. SLC15A4 loss disturbed the endolysosomal pH regulation and probably the v-ATPase integrity, and these changes were associated with disruption of the mTOR pathway, leading to failure of the IFN regulatory factor 7 (IRF7)-IFN-I regulatory circuit. Importantly, SLC15A4's transporter activity was necessary for the TLR-triggered cytokine production. Our findings revealed that SLC15A4-mediated optimization of the endolysosomal state is integral to a TLR7-triggered, mTOR-dependent IRF7-IFN-I circuit that leads to autoantibody production. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. 26 CFR 1.280B-1 - Demolition of structures.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Demolition of structures. 1.280B-1 Section 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES Items Not Deductible § 1.280B-1 Demolition of structures. (a) In general. Section 280B provides that, in the case of the demolition of any structure, no deduction otherwise allowable...

  6. 7 CFR 1b.2 - Policy.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 1 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Policy. 1b.2 Section 1b.2 Agriculture Office of the Secretary of Agriculture NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT § 1b.2 Policy. (a) All policies and programs of... environment for present and future generations. (b) Each USDA agency is responsible for compliance with this...

  7. 7 CFR 1b.2 - Policy.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Policy. 1b.2 Section 1b.2 Agriculture Office of the Secretary of Agriculture NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT § 1b.2 Policy. (a) All policies and programs of... environment for present and future generations. (b) Each USDA agency is responsible for compliance with this...

  8. 26 CFR 1.669(b)-1 - Information requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 8 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Information requirements. 1.669(b)-1 Section 1... Beginning Before January 1, 1969 § 1.669(b)-1 Information requirements. The election of a beneficiary who is... following information with respect to the operation and accounts of the foreign trust created by a U.S...

  9. EPR and optical investigation of Mn2+ doped L-histidine-4-nitrophenolate 4-nitrophenol single crystal

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Prabakaran, R.; Subramanian, P.

    2018-04-01

    Single crystals of L-histidine-4-nitrophenolate 4-nitrophenol[LHFNP] complex doped with Mn2+ were grown by the slow evaporation method at room temperature. The EPR spectrum reveals the entry of one Mn2+ ion in the lattice. The angular variation plot was drawn between the angles and the magnetic field position. The spin Hamiltonian parameters were obtained by EPR-NMR program. The D and E values show the rhombic field around the ion and is an interstitial one. The g value obtained here suggests that the Mn2+ ion experiences a strong field and there is a transfer of electron from the metal ion to the ligand atom. The optical absorption study shows various bands and are assigned to the transition from the ground state 6A1g(S). The Racah and crystal field parameters have also been evaluated and fitted to the experimental values. The Racah parameter shows the covalent bonding between the metal ion to the ligand.

  10. Transcriptional Regulation of JARID1B/KDM5B Histone Demethylase by Ikaros, Histone Deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), and Casein Kinase 2 (CK2) in B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia*

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Haijun; Song, Chunhua; Ding, Yali; Pan, Xiaokang; Ge, Zheng; Tan, Bi-Hua; Gowda, Chandrika; Sachdev, Mansi; Muthusami, Sunil; Ouyang, Hongsheng; Lai, Liangxue; Francis, Olivia L.; Morris, Christopher L.; Abdel-Azim, Hisham; Dorsam, Glenn; Xiang, Meixian; Payne, Kimberly J.; Dovat, Sinisa

    2016-01-01

    Impaired function of the Ikaros (IKZF1) protein is associated with the development of high-risk B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). The mechanisms of Ikaros tumor suppressor activity in leukemia are unknown. Ikaros binds to the upstream regulatory elements of its target genes and regulates their transcription via chromatin remodeling. Here, we report that Ikaros represses transcription of the histone H3K4 demethylase, JARID1B (KDM5B). Transcriptional repression of JARID1B is associated with increased global levels of H3K4 trimethylation. Ikaros-mediated repression of JARID1B is dependent on the activity of the histone deacetylase, HDAC1, which binds to the upstream regulatory element of JARID1B in complex with Ikaros. In leukemia, JARID1B is overexpressed, and its inhibition results in cellular growth arrest. Ikaros-mediated repression of JARID1B in leukemia is impaired by pro-oncogenic casein kinase 2 (CK2). Inhibition of CK2 results in increased binding of the Ikaros-HDAC1 complex to the promoter of JARID1B, with increased formation of trimethylated histone H3 lysine 27 and decreased histone H3 Lys-9 acetylation. In cases of high-risk B-ALL that carry deletion of one Ikaros (IKZF1) allele, targeted inhibition of CK2 restores Ikaros binding to the JARID1B promoter and repression of JARID1B. In summary, the presented data suggest a mechanism through which Ikaros and HDAC1 regulate the epigenetic signature in leukemia: via regulation of JARID1B transcription. The presented data identify JARID1B as a novel therapeutic target in B-ALL and provide a rationale for the use of CK2 inhibitors in the treatment of high-risk B-ALL. PMID:26655717

  11. Proteins in Load-Bearing Junctions: The Histidine-Rich Metal-Binding Protein of Mussel Byssus†,‡

    PubMed Central

    Zhao, Hua; Waite, J. Herbert

    2007-01-01

    Building complex load-bearing scaffolds depends on effective ways of joining functionally different biomacromolecules. The junction between collagen fibers and foamlike adhesive plaques in mussel byssus is robust despite the strikingly dissimilar connected structures. mcfp-4, the matrix protein from this junction, and its presecreted form from the foot tissue of Mytilus californianus were isolated and characterized. mcfp-4 has a mass of ∼93 kDa as determined by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Its composition is dominated by histidine (22 mol %), but levels of lysine, arginine, and aspartate are also significant. A small amount of 3,4-dihydroxyphenyl-L-alanine (2 mol %) can be detected by amino acid analysis and redox cycling assays. The cDNA-deduced sequence of mcfp-4 reveals multiple variants with highly repetitive internal structures, including ∼36 tandemly repeated His-rich decapeptides (e.g., HVHTHRVLHK) in the N-terminal half and 16 somewhat more degenerate aspartate-rich undecapeptides (e.g., DDHVNDIAQTA) in the C-terminal half. Incubation of a synthetic peptide based on the His-rich decapeptide with Fe3+, Co2+, Ni2+, Zn2+, and Cu2+ indicates that only Cu is strongly bound. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry of the peptide modified with diethyl pyrocarbonate before and after Cu binding suggests that histidine residues dominate Cu binding. In contrast, the aspartate-rich undecapeptides preferentially bind Ca2+. mcfp-4 is strategically positioned to function as a macromolecular bifunctional linker by using metal ions to couple its own His-rich domains to the His-rich termini of the preCOLs. Ca2+ may mediate coupling of the C-terminus to other calcium-binding plaque proteins. PMID:17115717

  12. Histidine-functionalized carbon-based dot-Zinc(II) nanoparticles as a novel stabilizer for Pickering emulsion synthesis of polystyrene microspheres.

    PubMed

    Ruiyi, Li; Zaijun, Li; Junkang, Liu

    2017-05-01

    Carbon-based dots (CDs) are nanoparticles with size-dependent optical and electronic properties that have been widely applied in energy-efficient displays and lighting, photovoltaic devices and biological markers. However, conventional CDs are difficult to be used as ideal stabilizer for Pickering emulsion due to its irrational amphiphilic structure. The study designed and synthesized a new histidine-functionalized carbon dot-Zinc(II) nanoparticles, which is termed as His-CD-Zn. The His-CD was made via one-step hydrothermal treatment of histidine and maleic acid. The His-CD reacted with Zn 2+ to form His-CD-Zn. The as-prepared His-CD-Zn was used as a solid particle surfactant for stabilizing styrene-in-water emulsion. The Pickering emulsion exhibits high stability and sensitive pH-switching behaviour. The introduction of S 2 O 8 2- triggers the emulsion polymerization of styrene. The resulted polystyrene microsphere was well coated with His-CDs on the surface. It was successfully used as an ideal adsorbent for removal of heavy metallic ions from water with high adsorption capacity. The study also provides a prominent approach for fabrication of amphiphilic carbon-based nanoparticles for stabilizing Pickering emulsion. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Single histidine button in cardiac troponin I sustains heart performance in response to severe hypercapnic respiratory acidosis in vivo.

    PubMed

    Palpant, Nathan J; D'Alecy, Louis G; Metzger, Joseph M

    2009-05-01

    Intracellular acidosis is a profound negative regulator of myocardial performance. We hypothesized that titrating myofilament calcium sensitivity by a single histidine substituted cardiac troponin I (A164H) would protect the whole animal physiological response to acidosis in vivo. To experimentally induce severe hypercapnic acidosis, mice were exposed to a 40% CO(2) challenge. By echocardiography, it was found that systolic function and ventricular geometry were maintained in cTnI A164H transgenic (Tg) mice. By contrast, non-Tg (Ntg) littermates experienced rapid and marked cardiac decompensation during this same challenge. For detailed hemodymanic assessment, Millar pressure-conductance catheterization was performed while animals were treated with a beta-blocker, esmolol, during a severe hypercapnic acidosis challenge. Survival and load-independent measures of contractility were significantly greater in Tg vs. Ntg mice. This assay showed that Ntg mice had 100% mortality within 5 min of acidosis. By contrast, systolic and diastolic function were protected in Tg mice during acidosis, and they had 100% survival. This study shows that, independent of any beta-adrenergic compensation, myofilament-based molecular manipulation of inotropy by histidine-modified troponin I maintains cardiac inotropic and lusitropic performance and markedly improves survival during severe acidosis in vivo.

  14. A Duo of Potassium-Responsive Histidine Kinases Govern the Multicellular Destiny of Bacillus subtilis.

    PubMed

    Grau, Roberto R; de Oña, Paula; Kunert, Maritta; Leñini, Cecilia; Gallegos-Monterrosa, Ramses; Mhatre, Eisha; Vileta, Darío; Donato, Verónica; Hölscher, Theresa; Boland, Wilhelm; Kuipers, Oscar P; Kovács, Ákos T

    2015-07-07

    Multicellular biofilm formation and surface motility are bacterial behaviors considered mutually exclusive. However, the basic decision to move over or stay attached to a surface is poorly understood. Here, we discover that in Bacillus subtilis, the key root biofilm-controlling transcription factor Spo0A~Pi (phosphorylated Spo0A) governs the flagellum-independent mechanism of social sliding motility. A Spo0A-deficient strain was totally unable to slide and colonize plant roots, evidencing the important role that sliding might play in natural settings. Microarray experiments plus subsequent genetic characterization showed that the machineries of sliding and biofilm formation share the same main components (i.e., surfactin, the hydrophobin BslA, exopolysaccharide, and de novo-formed fatty acids). Sliding proficiency was transduced by the Spo0A-phosphorelay histidine kinases KinB and KinC. We discovered that potassium, a previously known inhibitor of KinC-dependent biofilm formation, is the specific sliding-activating signal through a thus-far-unnoticed cytosolic domain of KinB, which resembles the selectivity filter sequence of potassium channels. The differential expression of the Spo0A~Pi reporter abrB gene and the different levels of the constitutively active form of Spo0A, Sad67, in Δspo0A cells grown in optimized media that simultaneously stimulate motile and sessile behaviors uncover the spatiotemporal response of KinB and KinC to potassium and the gradual increase in Spo0A~Pi that orchestrates the sequential activation of sliding, followed by sessile biofilm formation and finally sporulation in the same population. Overall, these results provide insights into how multicellular behaviors formerly believed to be antagonistic are coordinately activated in benefit of the bacterium and its interaction with the host. Alternation between motile and sessile behaviors is central to bacterial adaptation, survival, and colonization. However, how is the collective

  15. Antioxidation status and histidine dipeptides content in broiler blood and muscles depending on protein sources in feed.

    PubMed

    Kopeć, W; Jamroz, D; Wiliczkiewicz, A; Biazik, E; Hikawczuk, T; Skiba, T; Pudło, A; Orda, J

    2013-06-01

    One-day-old chickens were fed mixtures containing different raw materials (fish by-products meal, porcine blood cells meal, blood meal, wheat gluten, fodder yeast), as a source of histidine and β-alanine - components of carnosine. Control birds were administered a feed mixture, in which soy bean meal was the main protein source. The bodyweight, feed consumption and conversion, antioxidant characteristics and histidine dipeptides content in blood and muscles, and also amino acid composition of chicken meat on day 34 post-hatch were recorded. The best (p < 0.05) performance and feed conversion were observed in chickens fed mixture containing porcine blood cells meal. In blood plasma of control chickens, a significantly (p < 0.01) higher ability to scavenge DPPH radicals was found. However, the highest catalase activity in erythrocytes was determined in chickens fed mixtures with blood by-products. Insignificant differences in both carnosine and anserine levels in plasma between treatments were noted. Breast muscles from control birds were characterized by lower activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) (p < 0.05; p < 0.01), than those from chickens fed blood by-products. Improved ability to reduce ferric ions (FRAP) (p < 0.01) and carnosine content in meat from chickens fed blood cell meal were recorded. No direct relations between amino acids content in feed mixtures and in meat were observed. © 2012 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

  16. Diagnostic potential of monoclonal antibodies developed against C-terminal polypeptide of P. falciparum Histidine Rich Protein2 (PfHRP2) in malaria infected patients from India.

    PubMed

    Verma, Reena; Chandy, Sara; Jayaprakash, N S; Manoharan, Anand; Vijayalakshmi, M A; Venkataraman, Krishnan

    2017-09-01

    Malaria, caused by Plasmodium falciparum has become a major health burden in most tropical and developing countries. P. falciparum Histidine Rich Protein2 (PfHRP2), which exhibits polymorphism, is being widely used as a diagnostic marker. Recently, we reported the development of monoclonal antibodies against conserved C-terminal 105 amino acids of PfHRP2 for malaria diagnosis. Now, in this study, the diagnostic performance of two anti-C-terminal PfHRP2 mAbs (b10c1 and Aa3c10) were evaluated with 100 blood samples from clinically identified malaria patients from seven different geographical centers in India. Sandwich ELISA, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and statistical tools were used for the evaluation of the performance of the anti-C-terminal PfHRP2 mAb. These mAbs detected P. falciparum (mean OD value 1.525 ± 0.56) malaria with great accuracy with no cross reactivity with P. Plasmodium vivax (mean OD value 0.285 ± 0.051) and normal healthy control samples (mean OD value 0.185 ± 0.06) in Sandwich ELISA assay. The samples which were RDT negative for P. falciparum were also reactive in Sandwich ELISA with mean OD value of (1.303 ± 0.532). The amount of PfHRP2 antigen in the patients' blood sample was quantified and categorized into three distinct groups having the HRP2 antigen in high, intermediate and low amounts. The presence of Pfhrp2 gene was also confirmed by PCR analysis. The sensitivity and specificity of the mAb were found to be 95 and 96% respectively. These data strongly suggest that the anti-C-terminal PfHRP2 mAbs b10c1 and Aa3c10 have merits for improvising the existing malarial diagnostics.

  17. 75 FR 34062 - Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model AS 350 B, BA, B1, B2, B3, and D, and Model...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-06-16

    ... Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model AS 350 B, BA, B1, B2, B3, and D, and Model AS355 E, F, F1, F2... AS 350 B, BA, B1, B2, B3, and D, and Model AS355 E, F, F1, F2, and N helicopters, with certain main... an unsafe condition for certain Eurocopter France Model AS 350 B, BA, BB, B1, B2, B3, and D, and...

  18. Enhanced Indirect Photochemical Transformation of Histidine and Histamine through Association with Chromophoric Dissolved Organic Matter.

    PubMed

    Chu, Chiheng; Lundeen, Rachel A; Remucal, Christina K; Sander, Michael; McNeill, Kristopher

    2015-05-05

    Photochemical transformations greatly affect the stability and fate of amino acids (AAs) in sunlit aquatic ecosystems. Whereas the direct phototransformation of dissolved AAs is well investigated, their indirect photolysis in the presence of chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) is poorly understood. In aquatic systems, CDOM may act both as sorbent for AAs and as photosensitizer, creating microenvironments with high concentrations of photochemically produced reactive intermediates, such as singlet oxygen (1O2). This study provides a systematic investigation of the indirect photochemical transformation of histidine (His) and histamine by 1O2 in solutions containing CDOM as a function of solution pH. Both His and histamine showed pH-dependent enhanced phototransformation in the CDOM systems as compared to systems in which model, low-molecular-weight 1O2 sensitizers were used. Enhanced reactivity resulted from sorption of His and histamine to CDOM and thus exposure to elevated 1O2 concentrations in the CDOM microenvironment. The extent of reactivity enhancement depended on solution pH via its effects on the protonation state of His, histamine, and CDOM. Sorption-enhanced reactivity was independently supported by depressed rate enhancements in the presence of a cosorbate that competitively displaced His and histamine from CDOM. Incorporating sorption and photochemical transformation processes into a reaction rate prediction model improved the description of the abiotic photochemical transformation rates of His in the presence of CDOM.

  19. L1-mediated retrotransposition of murine B1 and B2 SINEs recapitulated in cultured cells.

    PubMed

    Dewannieux, Marie; Heidmann, Thierry

    2005-06-03

    SINEs are short interspersed nucleotide elements with transpositional activity, present at a high copy number (up to a million) in mammalian genomes. They are 80-400 bp long, non-coding sequences which derive either from the 7SL RNA (e.g. human Alus, murine B1s) or tRNA (e.g. murine B2s) polymerase III-driven genes. We have previously demonstrated that Alus very efficiently divert the enzymatic machinery of the autonomous L1 LINE (long interspersed nucleotide element) retrotransposons to transpose at a high rate. Here we show, using an ex vivo assay for transposition, that both B1 and B2 SINEs can be mobilized by murine LINEs, with the hallmarks of a bona fide retrotransposition process, including target site duplications of varying lengths and integrations into A-rich sequences. Despite different phylogenetic origins, transposition of the tRNA-derived B2 sequences is as efficient as that of the human Alus, whereas that of B1s is 20-100-fold lower despite a similar high copy number of these elements in the mouse genome. We provide evidence, via an appropriate nucleotide substitution within the B1 sequence in a domain essential for its intracellular targeting, that the current B1 SINEs are not optimal for transposition, a feature most probably selected for the host sake in the course of evolution.

  20. 18 CFR 1b.12 - Transcripts.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Transcripts. 1b.12 Section 1b.12 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.12 Transcripts. Transcripts, if any, of...

  1. 18 CFR 1b.19 - Submissions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Submissions. 1b.19 Section 1b.19 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.19 Submissions. In the event the...

  2. 18 CFR 1b.12 - Transcripts.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Transcripts. 1b.12 Section 1b.12 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.12 Transcripts. Transcripts, if any, of...

  3. 18 CFR 1b.19 - Submissions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Submissions. 1b.19 Section 1b.19 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.19 Submissions. In the event the...

  4. 18 CFR 1b.12 - Transcripts.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Transcripts. 1b.12 Section 1b.12 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.12 Transcripts. Transcripts, if any, of...

  5. 18 CFR 1b.12 - Transcripts.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Transcripts. 1b.12 Section 1b.12 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.12 Transcripts. Transcripts, if any, of...

  6. 18 CFR 1b.19 - Submissions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Submissions. 1b.19 Section 1b.19 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.19 Submissions. In the event the...

  7. 18 CFR 1b.19 - Submissions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Submissions. 1b.19 Section 1b.19 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.19 Submissions. In the event the...

  8. Structure investigation of maltacine B1a, B1b, B2a and B2b: cyclic peptide lactones of the maltacine complex from Bacillus subtilis.

    PubMed

    Hagelin, Gunnar

    2005-04-01

    A new complex of cyclic peptide lactone antibiotics from Bacillus subtilis, which we named maltacines, has recently been described. The structure elucidation of four of them is reported in this paper. The amino acid sequences and structures of the peptides were found by MSn of the ring-opened linear peptides that gave uninterrupted sequences of Bn and Y''n ions. The identities of three unknown residues in the sequences were solved by a combination of derivatization with phenyl isothiocyanate (PITC), high-resolution mass spectrometry and H/D exchange. The nature and position of the cyclic structure were revealed by a chemoselective ring opening with Na18OH and was found to be a lactone formed between a hydroxyl of residue number 4 and the C-terminal amino acid number 12. For verification of the structure of the B2+ ion, peptides with different combinations of P/Q and P/K at the N-terminus were synthesized. The structures of the four peptides were found to be as follows: B1a/B2a, cyclo-4,12(P-Q-Y-HNLeu-A-E-T-Y-Orn-103-Y-I-OH); and B1b/B2b, cyclo-4,12(P-Q-Y-HNLeu-A-E-T-Y-K-103-Y-I-OH). Copyright 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  9. The Metastasis Efficiency Modifier Ribosomal RNA Processing 1 Homolog B (RRP1B) Is a Chromatin-associated Factor*

    PubMed Central

    Crawford, Nigel P. S.; Yang, Hailiu; Mattaini, Katherine R.; Hunter, Kent W.

    2009-01-01

    There is accumulating evidence for a role of germ line variation in breast cancer metastasis. We have recently identified a novel metastasis susceptibility gene, Rrp1b (ribosomal RNA processing 1 homolog B). Overexpression of Rrp1b in a mouse mammary tumor cell line induces a gene expression signature that predicts survival in breast cancer. Here we extend the analysis of RRP1B function by demonstrating that the Rrp1b activation gene expression signature accurately predicted the outcome in three of four publicly available breast carcinoma gene expression data sets. In addition, we provide insights into the mechanism of RRP1B. Tandem affinity purification demonstrated that RRP1B physically interacts with many nucleosome binding factors, including histone H1X, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1, TRIM28 (tripartite motif-containing 28), and CSDA (cold shock domain protein A). Co-immunofluorescence and co-immunoprecipitation confirmed these interactions and also interactions with heterochromatin protein-1α and acetyl-histone H4 lysine 5. Finally, we investigated the effects of ectopic expression of an RRP1B allelic variant previously associated with improved survival in breast cancer. Gene expression analyses demonstrate that, compared with ectopic expression of wild type RRP1B in HeLa cells, the variant RRP1B differentially modulates various transcription factors controlled by TRIM28 and CSDA. These data suggest that RRP1B, a tumor progression and metastasis susceptibility candidate gene, is potentially a dynamic modulator of transcription and chromatin structure. PMID:19710015

  10. Impact of IL1B gene polymorphisms and interleukin 1B levels on susceptibility to spontaneous preterm birth.

    PubMed

    Langmia, Immaculate M; Apalasamy, Yamunah D; Omar, Siti Z; Mohamed, Zahurin

    2016-11-01

    Genetic factors influence susceptibility to preterm birth (PTB) and the immune pathway of PTB that involves the production of cytokines such as interleukins has been implicated in PTB disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the association of interleukin 1β (IL1B) gene polymorphisms and IL1B levels with spontaneous PTB. Peripheral maternal blood from 495 women was used for extraction of DNA and genotyping was carried out using the Sequenom MassARRAY platform. Maternal plasma was used to measure IL1B levels. There was no significant association between the allelic and genotype distribution of IL1B single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (rs1143634, rs1143627, rs16944) and the risk of PTB among Malaysian Malay women (rs1143634, P=0.722; rs1143627, P=0.543; rs16944, P=0.615). However, IL1B levels were significantly different between women who delivered preterm compared with those who delivered at term (P=0.030); high mean levels were observed among Malay women who delivered at preterm (mean=32.52) compared with term (mean=21.68). IL1B SNPs were not associated with IL1B plasma levels. This study indicates a significant association between IL1B levels and reduced risk of PTB among the Malaysian Malay women. This study shows the impact of IL1B levels on susceptibility to PTB disease; however, the high levels of IL1B observed among women in the preterm group are not associated with IL1B SNPs investigated in this study; IL1B high levels may be because of other factors not explored in this study and therefore warrant further investigation.

  11. 18 CFR 1b.14 - Subpoenas.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Subpoenas. 1b.14 Section 1b.14 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.14 Subpoenas. (a) Service of a subpoena...

  12. 18 CFR 1b.2 - Scope.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Scope. 1b.2 Section 1b.2 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.2 Scope. This part applies to investigations...

  13. 18 CFR 1b.14 - Subpoenas.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Subpoenas. 1b.14 Section 1b.14 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.14 Subpoenas. (a) Service of a subpoena...

  14. 18 CFR 1b.14 - Subpoenas.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Subpoenas. 1b.14 Section 1b.14 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.14 Subpoenas. (a) Service of a subpoena...

  15. 18 CFR 1b.2 - Scope.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Scope. 1b.2 Section 1b.2 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.2 Scope. This part applies to investigations...

  16. 18 CFR 1b.2 - Scope.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Scope. 1b.2 Section 1b.2 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.2 Scope. This part applies to investigations...

  17. 18 CFR 1b.2 - Scope.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Scope. 1b.2 Section 1b.2 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.2 Scope. This part applies to investigations...

  18. 18 CFR 1b.14 - Subpoenas.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Subpoenas. 1b.14 Section 1b.14 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL RULES RULES RELATING TO INVESTIGATIONS § 1b.14 Subpoenas. (a) Service of a subpoena...

  19. 34 CFR 5b.1 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 34 Education 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Definitions. 5b.1 Section 5b.1 Education Office of the Secretary, Department of Education PRIVACY ACT REGULATIONS § 5b.1 Definitions. As used in this part: (a... Education. (c) Department means the Department of Education. (d) Disclosure means the availability or...

  20. 34 CFR 5b.1 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... is a citizen of the United States or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence. It does not... 34 Education 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Definitions. 5b.1 Section 5b.1 Education Office of the Secretary, Department of Education PRIVACY ACT REGULATIONS § 5b.1 Definitions. As used in this part: (a...

  1. 75 FR 65222 - Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model AS 350 B, BA, B1, B2, B3, and D, and Model...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-10-22

    ... Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model AS 350 B, BA, B1, B2, B3, and D, and Model AS355 E, F, F1, F2... adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the Eurocopter France Model AS 350 B, BA, B1, B2, B3, and D... 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the Eurocopter France Model AS 350 B, BA, B1, B2...

  2. Study of NTA-Nickel (II) Motif Functionalization for Binding of Histidine-Tagged Proteins by a Whispering Gallery Mode Resonator

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khuong, Anne Chudolij

    This work demonstrates the viability of the whispering gallery mode (WGM) photonic sensing method for use as a biosensor by demonstrating a surface immobilization strategy for histidine tagged biomolecules to the WGM sensor surface. The WGM resonator is a dielectric spherical microstructure that can sustain high-Q electromagnetic waves confined to the sphere by total internal reflection. Light circumnavigates the periphery of the WGM resonator and when the trapped light constructively superimposes onto itself on the round trip, a resonance condition is achieved. Because of minimal loss due to reflection, these modes can reach unusually high quality factors. When a change occurs in the evanescent field at the boundary of the resonator and surrounding environment, such as when a molecule binds to the resonator surface, a shift results in the resonance wavelength; this enables the WGM resonator to be used as a sensor. WGM optical biosensors offer a powerful alternative to conventional analytical techniques due to their high sensitivity, specificity and their ability to directly detect label-free events in real time. There has been considerable growth in this field over the last decade and potential applications to medical and biotechnological research are numerous; however, there are still obstacles limiting the widespread commercial use of these devices. The obstacle we address in this work relates to a general fundamental difficulty incorporating biomaterial into biosensors. We demonstrate a specific and controlled functionalization strategy intended for subsequent assimilation of biomolecules onto the WGM resonator surface. We have developed a general method which can be used to controllably immobilize recombinant proteins to WGM silica surfaces via their histidine tags. In the work presented herein we monitor by WGM, in real time, a two step functionalization strategy to incorporate an NTA-Ni2+ motif onto the surface of a WGM resonator. We estimated the

  3. Linkage of genes for laminin B1 and B2 subunits on chromosome 1 in mouse.

    PubMed

    Elliott, R W; Barlow, D; Hogan, B L

    1985-08-01

    We have used cDNA clones for the B1 and B2 subunits of laminin to find restriction fragment length DNA polymorphisms for the genes encoding these polypeptides in the mouse. Three alleles were found for LamB2 and two for LamB1 among the inbred mouse strains. The segregation of these polymorphisms among recombinant inbred strains showed that these genes are tightly linked in the central region of mouse Chromosome 1 between Sas-1 and Ly-m22, 7.4 +/- 3.2 cM distal to the Pep-3 locus. There is no evidence in the mouse for pseudogenes for these proteins.

  4. Liquid chromatography/fluorescence method for emamectin B1a and desmethylamino-emamectin B1a residues in lobster tissue.

    PubMed

    Tauber, Ronald; Gillan, Niall; Crouch, Louis; Greenhalgh, Roy

    2006-01-01

    A liquid chromatography (LC)/fluorescence procedure was validated for emamectin (EM B1a) and desmethylamino-emamectin (DMAEM B1a) residues in lobster tissue. They were extracted by shaking and sonicating with 1% ammonium acetate-methanol in the presence of sand. The extract was concentrated, partitioned with ethyl acetate, and cleaned up on a propylsulfonic cation exchange cartridge. The analytes were eluted from the cartridge with 5% ammonium hydroxide-methyl acetate, the eluate was concentrated, and the solvent was changed to dry 20% ethyl acetate-acetonitrile before derivatization with trifluoroacetic anhydride-N-methylimidizole. The products were analyzed by LC-fluorescence, and no interference [>limit of detection (LOD)] was detected in the control samples. Lobster tissues fortified with EM B1a and DMAEM B1a at 0.5, 5, 10, 25, and 50 ng/g gave overall mean recoveries of 96.7 +/- 12.4%, relative standard deviation (RSD) = 12.8% for EM B1 and 83.6 +/- 12.1%, RSD = 14.5% for DMAEM B1a. Regression analysis of the calibration data gave slopes of 0.90 (EM B1a) and 0.71 (DMAEM B1a) with an r2 = 0.99 for both compounds. The calculated LOD and limit of quantification (LOQ) for EM B1a were 1.10 and 3.32 ng/g, respectively, and for DMAEM B1a were 0.762 and 2.31 ng/g, respectively. Residues of EM B1a and DMAEM B1a in fortified lobster tissues stored at -20 degrees C showed that residues were stable for 10-12 months. No loss of EM B1a and DMAEM B1a residues was observed after 3 freeze/thaw cycles of fortified tissue in a 5-day period.

  5. NMR detection of pH-dependent histidine-water proton exchange reveals the conduction mechanism of a transmembrane proton channel.

    PubMed

    Hu, Fanghao; Schmidt-Rohr, Klaus; Hong, Mei

    2012-02-29

    The acid-activated proton channel formed by the influenza M2 protein is important for the life cycle of the virus. A single histidine, His37, in the M2 transmembrane domain (M2TM) is responsible for pH activation and proton selectivity of the channel. Recent studies suggested three models for how His37 mediates proton transport: a shuttle mechanism involving His37 protonation and deprotonation, a H-bonded imidazole-imidazolium dimer model, and a transporter model involving large protein conformational changes in synchrony with proton conduction. Using magic-angle-spinning (MAS) solid-state NMR spectroscopy, we examined the proton exchange and backbone conformational dynamics of M2TM in a virus-envelope-mimetic membrane. At physiological temperature and pH, (15)N NMR spectra show fast exchange of the imidazole (15)N between protonated and unprotonated states. To quantify the proton exchange rates, we measured the (15)N T(2) relaxation times and simulated them for chemical-shift exchange and fluctuating N-H dipolar fields under (1)H decoupling and MAS. The exchange rate is 4.5 × 10(5) s(-1) for Nδ1 and 1.0 × 10(5) s(-1) for Nε2, which are approximately synchronized with the recently reported imidazole reorientation. Binding of the antiviral drug amantadine suppressed both proton exchange and ring motion, thus interfering with the proton transfer mechanism. By measuring the relative concentrations of neutral and cationic His as a function of pH, we determined the four pK(a) values of the His37 tetrad in the viral membrane. Fitting the proton current curve using the charge-state populations from these pK(a)'s, we obtained the relative conductance of the five charge states, which showed that the +3 channel has the highest time-averaged unitary conductance. At physiologically relevant pH, 2D correlation spectra indicated that the neutral and cationic histidines do not have close contacts, ruling out the H-bonded dimer model. Moreover, a narrowly distributed nonideal

  6. 32 CFR 242b.1 - Regents.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 32 National Defense 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Regents. 242b.1 Section 242b.1 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL... SCIENCES § 242b.1 Regents. (a) History and name. The Congress of the United States in the Uniformed...

  7. 32 CFR 242b.1 - Regents.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 32 National Defense 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Regents. 242b.1 Section 242b.1 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL... SCIENCES § 242b.1 Regents. (a) History and name. The Congress of the United States in the Uniformed...

  8. An appraisal of the value of vitamin B12 in the prevention of motion sickness

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kohl, R. L.; Lacey, C. L.; Homick, J. L.

    1983-01-01

    It has been suggested that vitamin B12 given by intramuscular injection can significantly reduce the occurrence of motion sickness in susceptible individuals (Banks, 1980). Since it is known that B12 influences the metabolism of histidine and choline, dietary precursors to neurotransmitters with established roles in motion sickness, an experimental evaluation has been undertaken of the efficacy of B12 in the prevention of motion sickness induced by controlled coriolis simulation. Subjects executed standardized head movements at successively higher rpm until a malaise III endpoint was reached. Following two baseline tests with this motion stressor, subjects received a B12 injection, a second injection two weeks later, and a final motion sickness test three weeks later. No significant differences in the susceptibility to motion sickness were noted after B12.

  9. Engineered bi-histidine metal chelation sites map the structure of the mechanical unfolding transition state of an elastomeric protein domain GB1.

    PubMed

    Shen, Tao; Cao, Yi; Zhuang, Shulin; Li, Hongbin

    2012-08-22

    Determining the structure of the transition state is critical for elucidating the mechanism behind how proteins fold and unfold. Due to its high free energy, however, the transition state generally cannot be trapped and studied directly using traditional structural biology methods. Thus, characterizing the structure of the transition state that occurs as proteins fold and unfold remains a major challenge. Here, we report a novel (to our knowledge) method that uses engineered bi-histidine (bi-His) metal-binding sites to directly map the structure of the mechanical unfolding transition state of proteins. This method is adapted from the traditional ψ-value analysis, which uses engineered bi-His metal chelation sites to probe chemical (un)folding transition-state structure. The φ(M2+)(U)-value is defined as ΔΔG(‡-N)/ΔΔG(U-N), which is the energetic effects of metal chelation by the bi-His site on the unfolding energy barrier (ΔG(‡-N)) relative to its thermodynamic stability (ΔG(U-N)) and can be used to obtain information about the transition state in the mutational site. As a proof of principle, we used the small protein GB1 as a model system and set out to map its mechanical unfolding transition-state structure. Using single-molecule atomic force microscopy and spectrofluorimetry, we directly quantified the effect of divalent metal ion binding on the mechanical unfolding free energy and thermodynamic stability of GB1, which allowed us to quantify φ(M2+)(U)-values for different sites in GB1. Our results enabled us to map the structure of the mechanical unfolding transition state of GB1. Within GB1's mechanical unfolding transition state, the interface between force-bearing β-strands 1 and 4 is largely disrupted, and the first β-hairpin is partially disordered while the second β-hairpin and the α-helix remain structured. Our results demonstrate the unique application of ψ-value analysis in elucidating the structure of the transition state that occurs

  10. 26 CFR 1.269B-1 - Stapled foreign corporations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Stapled foreign corporations. 1.269B-1 Section 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Items Not Deductible § 1.269B-1 Stapled foreign corporations. (a) Treatment as a domestic corporation—(1) General rule. Except as otherwise provided, if a foreign corporation...

  11. 26 CFR 1.269B-1 - Stapled foreign corporations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Stapled foreign corporations. 1.269B-1 Section 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Items Not Deductible § 1.269B-1 Stapled foreign corporations. (a) Treatment as a domestic corporation—(1) General rule. Except as otherwise provided, if a foreign corporation...

  12. 26 CFR 1.269B-1 - Stapled foreign corporations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Stapled foreign corporations. 1.269B-1 Section 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Items Not Deductible § 1.269B-1 Stapled foreign corporations. (a) Treatment as a domestic corporation—(1) General rule. Except as otherwise provided, if a foreign corporation...

  13. 26 CFR 1.269B-1 - Stapled foreign corporations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Stapled foreign corporations. 1.269B-1 Section 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Items Not Deductible § 1.269B-1 Stapled foreign corporations. (a) Treatment as a domestic corporation—(1) General rule. Except as otherwise provided, if a foreign corporation...

  14. Evolution of Fermi Surface Properties in CexLa1-xB6 and PrxLa1-xB6

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Endo, Motoki; Nakamura, Shintaro; Isshiki, Toshiyuki; Kimura, Noriaki; Nojima, Tsutomu; Aoki, Haruyoshi; Harima, Hisatomo; Kunii, Satoru

    2006-11-01

    We report the de Haas-van Alphen (dHvA) effect measurements of the Fermi surface properties in LaB6, CexLa1-xB6 (x = 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0) and PrxLa1-xB6 (x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0) with particular attention to the spin dependence of the Fermi surface properties. The Fermi surface shape and dimension of CexLa1-xB6 change considerably with Ce concentration, while those of PrxLa1-xB6 change very slightly up to x = 0.75, and in PrB6 the Fermi surface splits into the up and down spin Fermi surfaces. The effective mass of CexLa1-xB6 increases considerably with Ce concentration and is nearly proportional to the number of Ce ions, whereas that of PrxLa1-xB6 increases slightly with Pr concentration. In CexLa1-xB6 the effective mass depends very strongly on field and increases divergently with decreasing field, while that of PrxLa1-xB6 increases slightly with decreasing field. The contribution to the dHvA signal from the conduction electrons of one spin direction diminishes with Ce concentration and appears to disappear somewhere around x = 0.25--0.5. A weak spin dependence is also found in PrxLa1-xB6. The behaviors of CexLa1-xB6 and PrxLa1-xB6 are compared to discuss the origin of the spin dependence of the Fermi surface properties.

  15. Two extreme young objects in Barnard 1-b

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

    Hirano, Naomi; Liu, Fang-chun, E-mail: hirano@asiaa.sinica.edu.tw

    2014-07-01

    Two submillimeter/millimeter sources in the Barnard 1b (B1-b) core, B1-bN and B1-bS, have been studied in dust continuum, H{sup 13}CO{sup +} J = 1-0, CO J = 2-1, {sup 13}CO J = 2-1, and C{sup 18}O J = 2-1. The spectral energy distributions of these sources from the mid-IR to 7 mm are characterized by very cold temperatures of T {sub dust} < 20 K and low bolometric luminosities of 0.15-0.31 L {sub ☉}. The internal luminosities of B1-bN and B1-bS are estimated to be <0.01-0.03 L {sub ☉} and ∼0.1-0.2 L {sub ☉}, respectively. Millimeter interferometric observations have shownmore » that these sources have already formed central compact objects of ∼100 AU sizes. Both B1-bN and B1-bS are driving the CO outflows with low characteristic velocities of ∼2-4 km s{sup –1}. The fractional abundance of H{sup 13}CO{sup +} at the positions of B1-bN and B1-bS is lower than the canonical value by a factor of four to eight. This implies that a significant fraction of CO is depleted onto dust grains in the dense gas surrounding these sources. The observed physical and chemical properties suggest that B1-bN and B1-bS are in an earlier evolutionary stage than most of the known class 0 protostars. In particular, the properties of B1-bN agree with those of the first hydrostatic core predicted by the MHD simulations. The CO outflow was also detected in the mid-IR source located at ∼15'' from B1-bS. Since the dust continuum emission was not detected in this source, the circumstellar material surrounding this source is less than 0.01 M {sub ☉}. It is likely that the envelope of this source was dissipated by the outflow from the protostar that is located to the southwest of B1-b.« less

  16. The Cu2+-nitrilotriacetic acid complex improves loading of α-helical double histidine site for precise distance measurements by pulsed ESR

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ghosh, Shreya; Lawless, Matthew J.; Rule, Gordon S.; Saxena, Sunil

    2018-01-01

    Site-directed spin labeling using two strategically placed natural histidine residues allows for the rigid attachment of paramagnetic Cu2+. This double histidine (dHis) motif enables extremely precise, narrow distance distributions resolved by Cu2+-based pulsed ESR. Furthermore, the distance measurements are easily relatable to the protein backbone-structure. The Cu2+ ion has, till now, been introduced as a complex with the chelating agent iminodiacetic acid (IDA) to prevent unspecific binding. Recently, this method was found to have two limiting concerns that include poor selectivity towards α-helices and incomplete Cu2+-IDA complexation. Herein, we introduce an alternative method of dHis-Cu2+ loading using the nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA)-Cu2+ complex. We find that the Cu2+-NTA complex shows a four-fold increase in selectivity toward α-helical dHis sites. Furthermore, we show that 100% Cu2+-NTA complexation is achievable, enabling precise dHis loading and resulting in no free Cu2+ in solution. We analyze the optimum dHis loading conditions using both continuous wave and pulsed ESR. We implement these findings to show increased sensitivity of the Double Electron-Electron Resonance (DEER) experiment in two different protein systems. The DEER signal is increased within the immunoglobulin binding domain of protein G (called GB1). We measure distances between a dHis site on an α-helix and dHis site either on a mid-strand or a non-hydrogen bonded edge-strand β-sheet. Finally, the DEER signal is increased twofold within two α-helix dHis sites in the enzymatic dimer glutathione S-transferase exemplifying the enhanced α-helical selectivity of Cu2+-NTA.

  17. Histidinoalanine, a naturally occurring cross-link derived from phosphoserine and histidine residues in mineral-binding phosphoproteins.

    PubMed

    Marsh, M E

    1986-05-06

    Native mineral-containing phosphoprotein particles were isolated from the Heterodont bivalve Macrocallista nimbosa. The native particles are discrete structures about 40 nm in diameter which migrate as a single band during electrophoresis in agarose gels. Removal of the mineral component with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid dissociates the native protein into nonidentical subunits. The lower molecular weight subunits, representing 8% of the total protein, were obtained by differential centrifugation. The native protein is characterized by a high content of aspartic acid, phosphoserine, phosphothreonine, histidine, and the bifunctional cross-linking residue histidinoalanine. The low molecular weight subunits have the same amino acid composition except for a reduction in histidinoalanine and a corresponding increase in phosphoserine and histidine residues, demonstrating that the alanine portion of the cross-link is derived from phosphoserine residues. Ion-exchange chromatography and molecular sieve chromatography show that the low molecular weight subunits have a similar charge density but differ in molecular weight, and the relative mobilities of the subunits on agarose gels indicate that they are polymers of a single phosphoprotein molecule. The minimum molecular weight of the monomer is about 140 000 on the basis of the amino acid composition. The high molecular weight subunits are rich in histidinoalanine and too large to be resolved by either molecular sieve chromatography or gel electrophoresis. On the basis of the ultrastructural, electrophoretic, chromatographic, and compositional evidence, native phosphoprotein particles are composed of subunits ionically cross-linked via divalent cations. These subunits are variable molecular weight aggregates of a single phosphoprotein molecule covalently cross-linked via histidinoalanine residues. Evidence for a nonenzymatic cross-linking mechanism is discussed.

  18. Downregulation of kinin B1 receptor function by B2 receptor heterodimerization and signaling.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Xianming; Brovkovych, Viktor; Zhang, Yongkang; Tan, Fulong; Skidgel, Randal A

    2015-01-01

    Signaling through the G protein-coupled kinin receptors B1 (kB1R) and B2 (kB2R) plays a critical role in inflammatory responses mediated by activation of the kallikrein-kinin system. The kB2R is constitutively expressed and rapidly desensitized in response to agonist whereas kB1R expression is upregulated by inflammatory stimuli and it is resistant to internalization and desensitization. Here we show that the kB1R heterodimerizes with kB2Rs in co-transfected HEK293 cells and natively expressing endothelial cells, resulting in significant internalization and desensitization of the kB1R response in cells pre-treated with kB2R agonist. However, pre-treatment of cells with kB1R agonist did not affect subsequent kB2R responses. Agonists of other G protein-coupled receptors (thrombin, lysophosphatidic acid) had no effect on a subsequent kB1R response. The loss of kB1R response after pretreatment with kB2R agonist was partially reversed with kB2R mutant Y129S, which blocks kB2R signaling without affecting endocytosis, or T342A, which signals like wild type but is not endocytosed. Co-endocytosis of the kB1R with kB2R was dependent on β-arrestin and clathrin-coated pits but not caveolae. The sorting pathway of kB1R and kB2R after endocytosis differed as recycling of kB1R to the cell surface was much slower than that of kB2R. In cytokine-treated human lung microvascular endothelial cells, pre-treatment with kB2R agonist inhibited kB1R-mediated increase in transendothelial electrical resistance (TER) caused by kB1R stimulation (to generate nitric oxide) and blocked the profound drop in TER caused by kB1R activation in the presence of pyrogallol (a superoxide generator). Thus, kB1R function can be downregulated by kB2R co-endocytosis and signaling, suggesting new approaches to control kB1R signaling in pathological conditions. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Downregulation of kinin B1 receptor function by B2 receptor heterodimerization and signaling

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Xianming; Brovkovych, Viktor; Zhang, Yongkang; Tan, Fulong; Skidgel, Randal A.

    2014-01-01

    Signaling through the G protein-coupled kinin receptors B1 (kB1R) and B2 (kB2R) plays a critical role in inflammatory responses mediated by activation of the kallikrein-kinin system. The kB2R is constitutively expressed and rapidly desensitized in response to agonist whereas kB1R expression is upregulated by inflammatory stimuli and it is resistant to internalization and desensitization. Here we show that the kB1R heterodimerizes with kB2Rs in co-transfected HEK293 cells and natively expressing endothelial cells, resulting in significant internalization and desensitization of the kB1R response in cells pre-treated with kB2R agonist. However, pre-treatment of cells with kB1R agonist did not affect subsequent kB2R responses. Agonists of other G protein-coupled receptors (thrombin, lysophosphatidic acid) had no effect on a subsequent kB1R response. The loss of kB1R response after pretreatment with kB2R agonist was partially reversed with kB2R mutant Y129S, which blocks kB2R signaling without affecting endocytosis, or T342A, which signals like wild type but is not endocytosed. Co-endocytosis of the kB1R with kB2R was dependent on β-arrestin and clathrin-coated pits but not caveolae. The sorting pathway of kB1R and kB2R after endocytosis differed as recycling of kB1R to the cell surface was much slower than that of kB2R. In cytokine-treated human lung microvascular endothelial cells, pre-treatment with kB2R agonist inhibited kB1R-mediated increase in transendothelial electrical resistance (TER) caused by kB1R stimulation (to generate nitric oxide) and blocked the profound drop in TER caused by kB1R activation in the presence of pyrogallol (a superoxide generator). Thus, kB1R function can be downregulated by kB2R co-endocytosis and signaling, suggesting new approaches to control kB1R signaling in pathological conditions. PMID:25289859

  20. 26 CFR 1.269B-1 - Stapled foreign corporations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Stapled foreign corporations. 1.269B-1 Section 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES Items Not Deductible § 1.269B-1 Stapled foreign corporations. (a) Treatment as a domestic corporation—(1) General rule. Except as otherwise provided, if a foreign corporation is a stapled...

  1. Ultrastructure of the embryonic snake skin and putative role of histidine in the differentiation of the shedding complex.

    PubMed

    Alibardi, Lorenzo

    2002-02-01

    The morphogenesis and ultrastructure of the epidermis of snake embryos were studied at progressive stages of development through hatching to determine the time and modality of differentiation of the shedding complex. Scales form as symmetric epidermal bumps that become slanted and eventually very overlapped. During the asymmetrization of the bumps, the basal cells of the forming outer surface of the scale become columnar, as in an epidermal placode, and accumulate glycogen. Small dermal condensations are sometimes seen and probably represent primordia of the axial dense dermis of the growing tip of scales. Deep, dense, and superficial loose dermal regions are formed when the epidermis is bilayered (periderm and basal epidermis) and undifferentiated. Glycogen and lipids decrease from basal cells to differentiating suprabasal cells. On the outer scale surface, beneath the peridermis, a layer containing dense granules and sparse 25-30-nm thick coarse filaments is formed. The underlying clear layer does not contain keratohyalin-like granules but has a rich cytoskeleton of intermediate filaments. Small denticles are formed and they interdigitate with the oberhautchen spinulae formed underneath. On the inner scale surface the clear layer contains dense granules, coarse filaments, and does not form denticles with the aspinulated oberhautchen. On the inner side surface the oberhautchen only forms occasional spinulae. The sloughing of the periderm and embryonic epidermis takes place in ovo 5-6 days before hatching. There follow beta-, mesos-, and alpha-layers, not yet mature before hatching. No resting period is present but a new generation is immediately produced so that at 6-10 h posthatching an inner generation and a new shedding complex are forming beneath the outer generation. The first shedding complex differentiates 10-11 days before hatching. In hatchlings 6-10 h old, tritiated histidine is taken up in the epidermis 4 h after injection and is found mainly in the

  2. Heat shock factors HsfB1 and HsfB2b are involved in the regulation of Pdf1.2 expression and pathogen resistance in Arabidopsis.

    PubMed

    Kumar, Mukesh; Busch, Wolfgang; Birke, Hannah; Kemmerling, Birgit; Nürnberger, Thorsten; Schöffl, Friedrich

    2009-01-01

    In order to assess the functional roles of heat stress-induced class B-heat shock factors in Arabidopsis, we investigated T-DNA knockout mutants of AtHsfB1 and AtHsfB2b. Micorarray analysis of double knockout hsfB1/hsfB2b plants revealed as strong an up-regulation of the basal mRNA-levels of the defensin genes Pdf1.2a/b in mutant plants. The Pdf expression was further enhanced by jasmonic acid treatment or infection with the necrotrophic fungus Alternaria brassicicola. The single mutant hsfB2b and the double mutant hsfB1/B2b were significantly improved in disease resistance after A. brassicicola infection. There was no indication for a direct interaction of Hsf with the promoter of Pdf1.2, which is devoid of perfect HSE consensus Hsf-binding sequences. However, changes in the formation of late HsfA2-dependent HSE binding were detected in hsfB1/B2b plants. This suggests that HsfB1/B2b may interact with class A-Hsf in regulating the shut-off of the heat shock response. The identification of Pdf genes as targets of Hsf-dependent negative regulation is the first evidence for an interconnection of Hsf in the regulation of biotic and abiotic responses.

  3. Heat Shock Factors HsfB1 and HsfB2b Are Involved in the Regulation of Pdf1.2 Expression and Pathogen Resistance in Arabidopsis

    PubMed Central

    Kumar, Mukesh; Busch, Wolfgang; Birke, Hannah; Kemmerling, Birgit; Nürnberger, Thorsten; Schöffl, Friedrich

    2009-01-01

    In order to assess the functional roles of heat stress-induced class B-heat shock factors in Arabidopsis, we investigated T-DNA knockout mutants of AtHsfB1 and AtHsfB2b. Micorarray analysis of double knockout hsfB1/hsfB2b plants revealed as strong an up-regulation of the basal mRNA-levels of the defensin genes Pdf1.2a/b in mutant plants. The Pdf expression was further enhanced by jasmonic acid treatment or infection with the necrotrophic fungus Alternaria brassicicola. The single mutant hsfB2b and the double mutant hsfB1/B2b were significantly improved in disease resistance after A. brassicicola infection. There was no indication for a direct interaction of Hsf with the promoter of Pdf1.2, which is devoid of perfect HSE consensus Hsf-binding sequences. However, changes in the formation of late HsfA2-dependent HSE binding were detected in hsfB1/B2b plants. This suggests that HsfB1/B2b may interact with class A-Hsf in regulating the shut-off of the heat shock response. The identification of Pdf genes as targets of Hsf-dependent negative regulation is the first evidence for an interconnection of Hsf in the regulation of biotic and abiotic responses. PMID:19529832

  4. Antihyperalgesic activity of a novel nonpeptide bradykinin B1 receptor antagonist in transgenic mice expressing the human B1 receptor

    PubMed Central

    Fox, Alyson; Kaur, Satbir; Li, Bifang; Panesar, Moh; Saha, Uma; Davis, Clare; Dragoni, Ilaria; Colley, Sian; Ritchie, Tim; Bevan, Stuart; Burgess, Gillian; McIntyre, Peter

    2005-01-01

    We describe the properties of a novel nonpeptide kinin B1 receptor antagonist, NVP-SAA164, and demonstrate its in vivo activity in models of inflammatory pain in transgenic mice expressing the human B1 receptor. NVP-SAA164 showed high affinity for the human B1 receptor expressed in HEK293 cells (Ki 8 nM), and inhibited increases in intracellular calcium induced by desArg10kallidin (desArg10KD) (IC50 33 nM). While a similar high affinity was observed in monkey fibroblasts (Ki 7.7 nM), NVP-SAA164 showed no affinity for the rat B1 receptor expressed in Cos-7 cells. In transgenic mice in which the native B1 receptor was deleted and the gene encoding the human B1 receptor was inserted (hB1 knockin, hB1-KI), hB1 receptor mRNA was induced in tissues following LPS treatment. No mRNA encoding the mouse or human B1 receptor was detected in mouse B1 receptor knockout (mB1-KO) mice following LPS treatment. Freund's complete adjuvant-induced mechanical hyperalgesia was similar in wild-type and hB1-KI mice, but was significantly reduced in mB1-KO animals. Mechanical hyperalgesia induced by injection of the B1 agonist desArg10KD into the contralateral paw 24 h following FCA injection was similar in wild-type and hB1-KI mice, but was absent in mB1-KO animals. Oral administration of NVP-SAA164 produced a dose-related reversal of FCA-induced mechanical hyperalgesia and desArg10KD-induced hyperalgesia in hB1-KI mice, but was inactive against inflammatory pain in wild-type mice. These data demonstrate the use of transgenic technology to investigate the in vivo efficacy of species selective agents and show that NVP-SAA164 is a novel orally active B1 receptor antagonist, providing further support for the utility of B1 receptor antagonists in inflammatory pain conditions in man. PMID:15685199

  5. 26 CFR 1.468B-1 - Qualified settlement funds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 6 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Qualified settlement funds. 1.468B-1 Section 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Taxable Year for Which Deductions Taken § 1.468B-1 Qualified settlement...) and (c)(3) of this section or January 1 of the calendar year in which all the requirements of...

  6. 26 CFR 1.468B-1 - Qualified settlement funds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 6 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Qualified settlement funds. 1.468B-1 Section 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Taxable Year for Which Deductions Taken § 1.468B-1 Qualified settlement...) and (c)(3) of this section or January 1 of the calendar year in which all the requirements of...

  7. 26 CFR 1.468B-1 - Qualified settlement funds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 6 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Qualified settlement funds. 1.468B-1 Section 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Taxable Year for Which Deductions Taken § 1.468B-1 Qualified settlement...) and (c)(3) of this section or January 1 of the calendar year in which all the requirements of...

  8. 26 CFR 1.468B-1 - Qualified settlement funds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 6 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Qualified settlement funds. 1.468B-1 Section 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Taxable Year for Which Deductions Taken § 1.468B-1 Qualified settlement...) and (c)(3) of this section or January 1 of the calendar year in which all the requirements of...

  9. Genotype and environment effects on the contents of vitamins B1, B2, B3, and B6 in wheat grain.

    PubMed

    Shewry, Peter R; Van Schaik, Frank; Ravel, Catherine; Charmet, Gilles; Rakszegi, Mariann; Bedo, Zoltan; Ward, Jane L

    2011-10-12

    The total contents of thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (B2), and pyridoxine (B6) and the bioavailable forms of niacin (B3) were determined on wholemeal flours of 24 winter wheat varieties grown on four sites (United Kingdom, Poland, France, and Hungary) in 2007 and of two spring varieties grown on the same sites with the exception of Poland. The contents of vitamins B1 (5.53-13.55 μg/g dw), B2 (0.77-1.40 μg/g dw), and B6 (1.27-2.97 μg/g dw) were within the ranges reported previously, while the content of bioavailable vitamin B3 (0.16-1.74 μg/g dw) was about 10-15% of the total contents of vitamin B3 reported in previous studies. Strong correlations were observed between the contents of vitamins B1, B3, and B6, and partitioning of the variance in the contents of these three B vitamins showed that between 48 and 70% was accounted for by the environment. By contrast, the content of vitamin B2 was not correlated with the contents of other B vitamins, and 73% of the variance was ascribed to the error term, which suggests that this trait may be influenced by genotype × environment interactions. Whereas the contents of vitamins B1, B3, and B6 were correlated positively with the mean temperature from heading to harvest (r > 0.8), the content of vitamin B2 was positively correlated with precipitation during the 3 months prior to heading. These results are discussed in relation to the development of new wheat varieties with enhanced health benefits.

  10. 20 CFR 655.700 - What statutory provisions govern the employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do employers apply for H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visas... Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b Visas in Specialty Occupations and as Fashion Models, and Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b1 and E-3 Visas in...

  11. 20 CFR 655.700 - What statutory provisions govern the employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do employers apply for H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visas... Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b Visas in Specialty Occupations and as Fashion Models, and Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b1 and E-3 Visas in...

  12. 20 CFR 655.700 - What statutory provisions govern the employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do employers apply for H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visas... Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b Visas in Specialty Occupations and as Fashion Models, and Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b1 and E-3 Visas in...

  13. 20 CFR 655.700 - What statutory provisions govern the employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do employers apply for H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visas... Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b Visas in Specialty Occupations and as Fashion Models, and Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b1 and E-3 Visas in...

  14. 20 CFR 655.700 - What statutory provisions govern the employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do employers apply for H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visas... Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b Visas in Specialty Occupations and as Fashion Models, and Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b1 and E-3 Visas in...

  15. Tissue specific and abiotic stress regulated transcription of histidine kinases in plants is also influenced by diurnal rhythm

    PubMed Central

    Singh, Anupama; Kushwaha, Hemant R.; Soni, Praveen; Gupta, Himanshu; Singla-Pareek, Sneh L.; Pareek, Ashwani

    2015-01-01

    Two-component system (TCS) is one of the key signal sensing machinery which enables species to sense environmental stimuli. It essentially comprises of three major components, sensory histidine kinase proteins (HKs), histidine phosphotransfer proteins (Hpts), and response regulator proteins (RRs). The members of the TCS family have already been identified in Arabidopsis and rice but the knowledge about their functional indulgence during various abiotic stress conditions remains meager. Current study is an attempt to carry out comprehensive analysis of the expression of TCS members in response to various abiotic stress conditions and in various plant tissues in Arabidopsis and rice using MPSS and publicly available microarray data. The analysis suggests that despite having almost similar number of genes, rice expresses higher number of TCS members during various abiotic stress conditions than Arabidopsis. We found that the TCS machinery is regulated by not only various abiotic stresses, but also by the tissue specificity. Analysis of expression of some representative members of TCS gene family showed their regulation by the diurnal cycle in rice seedlings, thus bringing-in another level of their transcriptional control. Thus, we report a highly complex and tight regulatory network of TCS members, as influenced by the tissue, abiotic stress signal, and diurnal rhythm. The insights on the comparative expression analysis presented in this study may provide crucial leads toward dissection of diverse role(s) of the various TCS family members in Arabidopsis and rice. PMID:26442025

  16. Covalent Allosteric Inactivation of Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) by an Inhibitor-Electrophile Conjugate.

    PubMed

    Punthasee, Puminan; Laciak, Adrian R; Cummings, Andrea H; Ruddraraju, Kasi Viswanatharaju; Lewis, Sarah M; Hillebrand, Roman; Singh, Harkewal; Tanner, John J; Gates, Kent S

    2017-04-11

    Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) is a validated drug target, but it has proven difficult to develop medicinally useful, reversible inhibitors of this enzyme. Here we explored covalent strategies for the inactivation of PTP1B using a conjugate composed of an active site-directed 5-aryl-1,2,5-thiadiazolidin-3-one 1,1-dioxide inhibitor connected via a short linker to an electrophilic α-bromoacetamide moiety. Inhibitor-electrophile conjugate 5a caused time-dependent loss of PTP1B activity consistent with a covalent inactivation mechanism. The inactivation occurred with a second-order rate constant of (1.7 ± 0.3) × 10 2 M -1 min -1 . Mass spectrometric analysis of the inactivated enzyme indicated that the primary site of modification was C121, a residue distant from the active site. Previous work provided evidence that covalent modification of the allosteric residue C121 can cause inactivation of PTP1B [Hansen, S. K., Cancilla, M. T., Shiau, T. P., Kung, J., Chen, T., and Erlanson, D. A. (2005) Biochemistry 44, 7704-7712]. Overall, our results are consistent with an unusual enzyme inactivation process in which noncovalent binding of the inhibitor-electrophile conjugate to the active site of PTP1B protects the nucleophilic catalytic C215 residue from covalent modification, thus allowing inactivation of the enzyme via selective modification of allosteric residue C121.

  17. 26 CFR 1.468B-1 - Qualified settlement funds.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 6 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Qualified settlement funds. 1.468B-1 Section 1... (CONTINUED) INCOME TAXES Taxable Year for Which Deductions Taken § 1.468B-1 Qualified settlement funds. (a) In general. A qualified settlement fund is a fund, account, or trust that satisfies the requirements...

  18. Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B (PTP1B): A Potential Target for Alzheimer's Therapy?

    PubMed

    Vieira, Marcelo N N; Lyra E Silva, Natalia M; Ferreira, Sergio T; De Felice, Fernanda G

    2017-01-01

    Despite significant advances in current understanding of mechanisms of pathogenesis in Alzheimer's disease (AD), attempts at drug development based on those discoveries have failed to translate into effective, disease-modifying therapies. AD is a complex and multifactorial disease comprising a range of aberrant cellular/molecular processes taking part in different cell types and brain regions. As a consequence, therapeutics for AD should be able to block or compensate multiple abnormal pathological events. Here, we examine recent evidence that inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) may represent a promising strategy to combat a variety of AD-related detrimental processes. Besides its well described role as a negative regulator of insulin and leptin signaling, PTB1B recently emerged as a modulator of various other processes in the central nervous system (CNS) that are also implicated in AD. These include signaling pathways germane to learning and memory, regulation of synapse dynamics, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and microglia-mediated neuroinflammation. We propose that PTP1B inhibition may represent an attractive and yet unexplored therapeutic approach to correct aberrant signaling pathways linked to AD.

  19. [In vitro study of vitamins B1, B2 and B6 adsorption on zeolite].

    PubMed

    Basić, Zorica; Kilibarda, Vesna; Dobrić, Silva; Resanović, Radmila

    2011-01-01

    Zeolites are the hydratised alumosilicates of alcali and earthalcali cations, which have a long three-dimensional crystal structure. Preparations on the basis of zeolites are used for adsorption of organic and nonorganic toxic substances and they, also, find more and more use in veterinary and human medicine and pharmacy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possibilities of zeolite to adsorb vitamins B1, B2 and B6 in acid and neutral solutions, as well as the characteristics of the process (saturability, reversibility and competitiveness). The specific and sensitive HPLC method with fluorescent detector was used for determination of vitamins B1, B2 and B6. Analyte separation and detection were carried out by applying the reverse-phase method on column C18. An in vitro experiment was done by testing the influence of pH value (2 and 7), concentration of vitamin solution (1, 2 and 5 mg/L), the length of contact with zeolite (10-180 min) and cation competitiveness on the exchange capacity, which is achieved by media and zeolite contact, as well as a possible vitamins desorption through changing pH value of the solution at 37 degrees C. Jon competitiveness was examined by adding commercial feed mixture (grower) with a defined content of the examined vitamins in zeolite solutions the pH = 2 and pH = 7. Vitamins B1, B2 and B6 were stable in both pH=2 and pH = 7 solutions at 37 degrees C, in the defined time intervals. In acid solution concentrations of vitamins significantly declined in the first 10 min, with no significant decline in further 30 min for all the three concentrations tests. In neutral solution, after the addition of 1% zeolite, decrease in vitamins concentrations was slightly lower than in acid solution, but also significant in the first 10 min of the contact with zeolite. It was found that zeolite, which adsorbed vitamins in acid solution, transferred in the neutral one released a significant quantity of adsorbed vitamins after 30 min of extraction

  20. 75 FR 79988 - Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model AS350B, B1, B2, B3, BA, and EC130 B4 Helicopters

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-12-21

    ... Model AS350B, B1, B2, B3, BA, and EC130 B4 Helicopters AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA..., 2009, for the Model AS350 B, BA, BB, B1, B2, and B3 helicopters (ASB 80.00.07); and ASB No. 80A003... authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39...

  1. Molecular requirements for the insecticidal activity of the plant peptide pea albumin 1 subunit b (PA1b).

    PubMed

    Da Silva, Pedro; Rahioui, Isabelle; Laugier, Christian; Jouvensal, Laurence; Meudal, Hervé; Chouabe, Christophe; Delmas, Agnès F; Gressent, Frédéric

    2010-10-22

    PA1b (pea albumin 1, subunit b) is a small and compact 37-amino acid protein, isolated from pea seeds (Pisum sativum), that adopts a cystine knot fold. It acts as a potent insecticidal agent against major pests in stored crops and vegetables, making it a promising bioinsecticide. Here, we investigate the influence of individual residues on the structure and bioactivity of PA1b. A collection of 13 PA1b mutants was successfully chemically synthesized in which the residues involved in the definition of PA1b amphiphilic and electrostatic characteristics were individually replaced with an alanine. The three-dimensional structure of PA1b was outstandingly tolerant of modifications. Remarkably, receptor binding and insecticidal activities were both dependent on common well defined clusters of residues located on one single face of the toxin, with Phe-10, Arg-21, Ile-23, and Leu-27 being key residues of the binding interaction. The inactivity of the mutants is clearly due to a change in the nature of the side chain rather than to a side effect, such as misfolding or degradation of the peptide, in the insect digestive tract. We have shown that a hydrophobic patch is the putative site of the interaction of PA1b with its binding site. Overall, the mutagenesis data provide major insights into the functional elements responsible for PA1b entomotoxic properties and give some clues toward a better understanding of the PA1b mode of action.

  2. Nascent bipolar outflows associated with the first hydrostatic core candidates Barnard 1b-N and 1b-S

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gerin, M.; Pety, J.; Fuente, A.; Cernicharo, J.; Commerçon, B.; Marcelino, N.

    2015-05-01

    In the theory of star formation, the first hydrostatic core (FHSC) phase is a critical step in which a condensed object emerges from a prestellar core. This step lasts about one thousand years, a very short time compared with the lifetime of prestellar cores, and therefore is hard to detect unambiguously. We present IRAM Plateau de Bure observations of the Barnard 1b dense molecular core, combining detections of H2CO and CH3OH spectral lines and dust continuum at 2.3'' resolution (~500 AU). The two compact cores B1b-N and B1b-S are detected in the dust continuum at 2 mm, with fluxes that agree with their spectral energy distribution. Molecular outflows associated with both cores are detected. They are inclined relative to the direction of the magnetic field, in agreement with predictions of collapse in turbulent and magnetized gas with a ratio of mass to magnetic flux somewhat higher than the critical value, μ ~ 2-7. The outflow associated with B1b-S presents sharp spatial structures, with ejection velocities of up to ~7 km s-1 from the mean velocity. Its dynamical age is estimated to be ~2000 yr. The B1b-N outflow is smaller and slower, with a short dynamical age of ~1000 yr. The B1b-N outflow mass, mass-loss rate, and mechanical luminosity agree well with theoretical predictions of FHSC. These observations confirm the early evolutionary stage of B1b-N and the slightly more evolved stage of B1b-S. Based on observations carried out with the IRAM Plateau de Bure Interferometer. IRAM is supported by INSU/CNRS (France), MPG (Germany) and IGN (Spain).Appendices are available in electronic form at http://www.aanda.orgFITS files for the H2CO and CH3OH mosaics are only available at the CDS via anonymous ftp to http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (ftp://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/577/L2

  3. Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) is required for cardiac lineage differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells.

    PubMed

    Eshkiki, Zahra Shokati; Ghahremani, Mohammad Hossein; Shabani, Parisa; Firuzjaee, Sattar Gorgani; Sadeghi, Asie; Ghanbarian, Hossein; Meshkani, Reza

    2017-01-01

    Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) has been shown to regulate multiple cellular events such as differentiation, cell growth, and proliferation; however, the role of PTP1B in differentiation of embryonic stem (ES) cells into cardiomyocytes remains unexplored. In the present study, we investigated the effects of PTP1B inhibition on differentiation of ES cells into cardiomyocytes. PTP1B mRNA and protein levels were increased during the differentiation of ES cells into cardiomyocytes. Accordingly, a stable ES cell line expressing PTP1B shRNA was established. In vitro, the number and size of spontaneously beating embryoid bodies were significantly decreased in PTP1B-knockdown cells, compared with the control cells. Decreased expression of cardiac-specific markers Nkx2-5, MHC-α, cTnT, and CX43, as assessed by real-time PCR analysis, was further confirmed by immunocytochemistry of the markers. The results also showed that PTP1B inhibition induced apoptosis in both differentiated and undifferentiated ES cells, as presented by increasing the level of cleaved caspase-3, cytochrome C, and cleaved PARP. Further analyses revealed that PTP1B inhibition did not change proliferation and pluripotency of undifferentiated ES cells. Taken together, the data presented here suggest that PTP1B is essential for proper differentiation of ES cells into cardiomyocytes.

  4. Alanine rich peptide from Populus trichocarpa inhibit growth of Staphylococcus aureus via targetting its extracellular domain of Sensor Histidine Kinase YycGex protein.

    PubMed

    Al Akeel, Raid; Mateen, Ayesha; Syed, Rabbani; Alqahtani, Mohammed S; Alqahtani, Ali S

    2018-05-22

    Due to growing concern towards microbial resistance, ongoing search for developing novel bioactive compounds such as peptides is on rise. The aim of this study was to evaluate antimicrobial effect of Populus trichocarpa extract, chemically identify the active peptide fraction and finds its target in Staphylococcus aureus. In this study the active fraction of P. trichocarpa crude extract was purified and characterized using MS/MS. This peptide PT13 antimicrobial activity was confirmed by in-vitro agar based disk diffusion and in-vivo infection model of G. mellonella. The proteomic expression analysis of S. aureus under influence of PT13 was studied using LTQ-Orbitrap-MS in-solution digestion and identity of target protein was acquired with their quantified expression using label-free approach of Progenesis QI software. Docking study was performed with peptide PT13 and its target YycG protein using CABS-dock. The active fraction PT13 sequence was identified as KVPVAAAAAAAAAVVASSMVVAAAK, with 25 amino acid including 13 alanine having M/Z 2194.2469. PT13 was uniformly inhibited growth S. aureus SA91 and MIC was determined 16 μg/mL for SA91 S. aureus strain. Sensor histidine kinase (YycG) was most significant target found differentially expressed under influence of PT13. G. mellonella larvae were killed rapidly due to S aureus infection, whereas death in protected group was insignificant in compare to control. The docking models showed ten docking models with RMSD value 1.89 for cluster 1 and RMSD value 3.95 for cluster 2 which is predicted to be high quality model. Alanine rich peptide could be useful in constructing as antimicrobial peptide for targeting extracellular Domain of Sensor Histidine Kinase YycG from S. aureus used in the study. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Roles of the redox-active disulfide and histidine residues forming a catalytic dyad in reactions catalyzed by 2-ketopropyl coenzyme M oxidoreductase/carboxylase.

    PubMed

    Kofoed, Melissa A; Wampler, David A; Pandey, Arti S; Peters, John W; Ensign, Scott A

    2011-09-01

    NADPH:2-ketopropyl-coenzyme M oxidoreductase/carboxylase (2-KPCC), an atypical member of the disulfide oxidoreductase (DSOR) family of enzymes, catalyzes the reductive cleavage and carboxylation of 2-ketopropyl-coenzyme M [2-(2-ketopropylthio)ethanesulfonate; 2-KPC] to form acetoacetate and coenzyme M (CoM) in the bacterial pathway of propylene metabolism. Structural studies of 2-KPCC from Xanthobacter autotrophicus strain Py2 have revealed a distinctive active-site architecture that includes a putative catalytic triad consisting of two histidine residues that are hydrogen bonded to an ordered water molecule proposed to stabilize enolacetone formed from dithiol-mediated 2-KPC thioether bond cleavage. Site-directed mutants of 2-KPCC were constructed to test the tenets of the mechanism proposed from studies of the native enzyme. Mutagenesis of the interchange thiol of 2-KPCC (C82A) abolished all redox-dependent reactions of 2-KPCC (2-KPC carboxylation or protonation). The air-oxidized C82A mutant, as well as wild-type 2-KPCC, exhibited the characteristic charge transfer absorbance seen in site-directed variants of other DSOR enzymes but with a pK(a) value for C87 (8.8) four units higher (i.e., four orders of magnitude less acidic) than that for the flavin thiol of canonical DSOR enzymes. The same higher pK(a) value was observed in native 2-KPCC when the interchange thiol was alkylated by the CoM analog 2-bromoethanesulfonate. Mutagenesis of the flavin thiol (C87A) also resulted in an inactive enzyme for steady-state redox-dependent reactions, but this variant catalyzed a single-turnover reaction producing a 0.8:1 ratio of product to enzyme. Mutagenesis of the histidine proximal to the ordered water (H137A) led to nearly complete loss of redox-dependent 2-KPCC reactions, while mutagenesis of the distal histidine (H84A) reduced these activities by 58 to 76%. A redox-independent reaction of 2-KPCC (acetoacetate decarboxylation) was not decreased for any of the

  6. Global sequence variation in the histidine-rich proteins 2 and 3 of Plasmodium falciparum: implications for the performance of malaria rapid diagnostic tests

    PubMed Central

    2010-01-01

    Background Accurate diagnosis is essential for prompt and appropriate treatment of malaria. While rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) offer great potential to improve malaria diagnosis, the sensitivity of RDTs has been reported to be highly variable. One possible factor contributing to variable test performance is the diversity of parasite antigens. This is of particular concern for Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein 2 (PfHRP2)-detecting RDTs since PfHRP2 has been reported to be highly variable in isolates of the Asia-Pacific region. Methods The pfhrp2 exon 2 fragment from 458 isolates of P. falciparum collected from 38 countries was amplified and sequenced. For a subset of 80 isolates, the exon 2 fragment of histidine-rich protein 3 (pfhrp3) was also amplified and sequenced. DNA sequence and statistical analysis of the variation observed in these genes was conducted. The potential impact of the pfhrp2 variation on RDT detection rates was examined by analysing the relationship between sequence characteristics of this gene and the results of the WHO product testing of malaria RDTs: Round 1 (2008), for 34 PfHRP2-detecting RDTs. Results Sequence analysis revealed extensive variations in the number and arrangement of various repeats encoded by the genes in parasite populations world-wide. However, no statistically robust correlation between gene structure and RDT detection rate for P. falciparum parasites at 200 parasites per microlitre was identified. Conclusions The results suggest that despite extreme sequence variation, diversity of PfHRP2 does not appear to be a major cause of RDT sensitivity variation. PMID:20470441

  7. 49 CFR 178.33b-1 - Compliance.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Compliance. 178.33b-1 Section 178.33b-1 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY... Specifications for Inside Containers, and Linings § 178.33b-1 Compliance. (a) Required in all details. (b...

  8. Processing TES Level-1B Data

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    DeBaca, Richard C.; Sarkissian, Edwin; Madatyan, Mariyetta; Shepard, Douglas; Gluck, Scott; Apolinski, Mark; McDuffie, James; Tremblay, Dennis

    2006-01-01

    TES L1B Subsystem is a computer program that performs several functions for the Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer (TES). The term "L1B" (an abbreviation of "level 1B"), refers to data, specific to the TES, on radiometric calibrated spectral radiances and their corresponding noise equivalent spectral radiances (NESRs), plus ancillary geolocation, quality, and engineering data. The functions performed by TES L1B Subsystem include shear analysis, monitoring of signal levels, detection of ice build-up, and phase correction and radiometric and spectral calibration of TES target data. Also, the program computes NESRs for target spectra, writes scientific TES level-1B data to hierarchical- data-format (HDF) files for public distribution, computes brightness temperatures, and quantifies interpixel signal variability for the purpose of first-order cloud and heterogeneous land screening by the level-2 software summarized in the immediately following article. This program uses an in-house-developed algorithm, called "NUSRT," to correct instrument line-shape factors.

  9. Coxiella burnetii Avirulent Nine Mile Phase II Induces Caspase-1-Dependent Pyroptosis in Murine Peritoneal B1a B Cells.

    PubMed

    Schoenlaub, Laura; Cherla, Rama; Zhang, Yan; Zhang, Guoquan

    2016-12-01

    Our recent study demonstrated that virulent Coxiella burnetii Nine Mile phase I (NMI) is capable of infecting and replicating within peritoneal B1a cells and that B1a cells play an important role in host defense against C. burnetii infection in mice. However, it remains unknown if avirulent Nine Mile phase II (NMII) can infect and replicate in B1a cells and whether NMI and NMII can differentially interact with B1a cells. In this study, we examined if NMI and NMII can differentially modulate host cell apoptotic signaling in B1a cells. The results showed that NMII induced dose-dependent cell death in murine peritoneal B1a cells but NMI did not, suggesting that NMI and NMII may differentially activate host cell apoptotic signaling in B1a cells. Western blotting indicated that NMII-induced B1a cell death was not dependent on either caspase-3 or PARP-1 cleavage, but cleavage of caspase-1 was detected in NMII-infected B1a cells. In addition, inhibition or deficiency of caspase-1 activity blocked NMII-induced B1a cell death. These results suggest that NMII induces a caspase-1-dependent pyroptosis in murine peritoneal B1a cells. We also found that heat-killed NMII and type 4 secretion system (T4SS) mutant NMII were unable to induce B1a cell death and that NMII infection did not induce cell death in peritoneal B1a cells from Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2)- or NLRP3 inflammasome-deficient mice. These data suggest that NMII-induced caspase-1-dependent pyroptosis may require its T4SS and activation of the TLR-2 and NLRP3 signaling pathways. Copyright © 2016, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

  10. Difference in the structures of alanine tri- and tetra-peptides with antiparallel β-sheet assessed by X-ray diffraction, solid-state NMR and chemical shift calculations by GIPAW.

    PubMed

    Asakura, Tetsuo; Yazawa, Koji; Horiguchi, Kumiko; Suzuki, Furitsu; Nishiyama, Yusuke; Nishimura, Katsuyuki; Kaji, Hironori

    2014-01-01

    Alanine oligomers provide a key structure for silk fibers from spider and wild silkworms.We report on structural analysis of L-alanyl-L-alanyl-L-alanyl-L-alanine (Ala)4 with anti-parallel (AP) β-structures using X-ray and solid-state NMR. All of the Ala residues in the (Ala)4 are in equivalent positions, whereas for alanine trimer (Ala)3 there are two alternative locations in a unit cell as reported previously (Fawcett and Camerman, Acta Cryst., 1975, 31, 658-665). (Ala)4 with AP β-structure is more stable than AP-(Ala)3 due to formation of the stronger hydrogen bonds. The intermolecular structure of (Ala)4 is also different from polyalanine fiber structure, indicating that the interchain arrangement of AP β-structure changes with increasing alanine sequencelength. Furthermore the precise (1)H positions, which are usually inaccesible by X-ray diffraction method, are determined by high resolution (1)H solid state NMR combined with the chemical shift calculations by the gauge-including projector augmented wave method. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  11. IL-10 production by B cells expressing CD5 with the alternative exon 1B.

    PubMed

    Garaud, Soizic; Le Dantec, Christelle; de Mendoza, Agnès Revol; Mageed, Rizgar A; Youinou, Pierre; Renaudineau, Yves

    2009-09-01

    B lymphocytes are divided into two subpopulations, B1 and B2 cells based on expression of the T cell-associated protein CD5. Natural B1 cells are further divided into B1a cells that express CD5 on their membrane and B1b cells that do not but share most other biological characteristics of B1a cells. Recent studies from our laboratory have revealed, in humans, the existence of two alternative isoforms of the CD5 protein. A cell surface CD5 isoform which uses exon 1A (E1A) of the gene in B1a cells, and an intracellular isoform which uses exon 1B (E1B) mainly in human B1b cells. Indeed, the protein isoform encoded by transcripts containing E1B lack the leader peptide and is, thus, retained in the cytoplasm of B cells. The restriction of interleukin (IL)-10 to B1 lymphocytes in the mouse raises the possibility that the human CD5-E1B-expressing B cells produce IL-10. This prediction was confirmed in the CD5 negative Jok-1 B cells transfected with cDNA for either isoforms resulted in high level IL-10 production. Our data indicate that E1B-CD5-expressing B cells have the capacity to interfere with the immune response through their ability to produce high levels of IL-10.

  12. 49 CFR 178.33b-1 - Compliance.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Compliance. 178.33b-1 Section 178.33b-1 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY... Containers, and Linings § 178.33b-1 Compliance. (a) Required in all details. (b) [Reserved] [74 FR 2268, Jan...

  13. 26 CFR 31.3306(b)-1 - Wages.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 15 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Wages. 31.3306(b)-1 Section 31.3306(b)-1... Unemployment Tax Act (Chapter 23, Internal Revenue Code of 1954) § 31.3306(b)-1 Wages. (a) Applicable law and... after 1938 constitutes wages is determined under section 3306(b). Accordingly, only remuneration paid...

  14. Bu-2470, a new peptide antibiotic complex. II. Structure determination of Bu-2470 A, B1, B2a and B2b.

    PubMed

    Sugawara, K; Yonemoto, T; Konishi, M; Matsumoto, K; Miyaki, T; Kawaguchi, H

    1983-06-01

    The structures of Bu-2470 A, B1, B2a, and B2b have been determined. Bu-2470 A is a simple octapeptide having no fatty acid moiety, while Bu-2470 B1, B2a and B2b are octapeptides that have been acylated with a beta-hydroxy C11 or C10 fatty acid. The octapeptide structure of Bu-2470 components was found identical with that of octapeptin C1, hence generic names of octapeptin C0, C2, C3 and C4 are proposed for Bu-2470 A, B1, B2a and B2b, respectively.

  15. Study of Infrared Emission Spectroscopy for the B1Δg-A1Πu and B'1Σg+-A1Πu Systems of C2

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tang, Jian; Chen, Wang; Kawaguchi, Kentarou; Bernath, Peter F.

    2016-06-01

    Recently, we carried out the perturbation analysis of C_2 spectra and identified forbidden singlet-triplet intersystem transitions, which aroused further interest in other C_2 spectra for the many low-lying electronic states of this fundamental molecule. In 1988, the B1Δg-A1Πu and B'1Σg+-A1Πu band systems were discovered by Douay et al., who observed eight bands of the B1Δg-A1Πu system with v up to 5 for the B1Δg state and six bands of the B'1Σg+-A1Πu system with v up to 3 for the B'1Σg+ state in the Fourier transform infrared emission spectra of hydrocarbon discharges. In the work presented here, we identified twenty-four bands of the two systems, among which the B'1Σg+ v = 4 and the B1Δg v = 6, 7 and 8 vibrational levels involved in nine bands were studied for the first time. A direct global analysis with Dunham parameters was carried out satisfactorily for the B1Δg-A1Πu system except for a small perturbation in the B1Δg v = 6 level. The calculated rovibrational term energies up to B1Δg v = 12 showed that the level crossing between the B1Δg and d3Πg states is responsible for many of the prominent perturbations in the Swan system observed previously. Nineteen lines of the B1Δg-a3Πu forbidden transitions were identified and the off-diagonal spin-orbit interaction constant AdB between d3Πg and B1Δg was derived as 8.3(1) wn. For the B'1Σg+-A1Πu system, only individual band analyses for each vibrational level in the B'1Σg+ state could be done satisfactorily and Dunham parameters obtained from these effective parameters showed that the anharmonic vibrational constant ω_e x_e is anomalously small (nearly zero). Inspection of the RKR potential curves for the B'1Σg+ and X1Σg+ states revealed that an avoided crossing may occur around 30000 wn, which is responsible for the anomalous molecular constants in these two states. W. Chen, K. Kawaguchi, P. F. Bernath, and J. Tang, J. Chem. Phys., 141, 064317 (2015) M. Douay, R. Nietmann and P. F. Bernath

  16. Fabrication of Nanometer- and Micrometer-Scale Protein Structures by Site-Specific Immobilization of Histidine-Tagged Proteins to Aminosiloxane Films with Photoremovable Protein-Resistant Protecting Groups

    PubMed Central

    2016-01-01

    The site-specific immobilization of histidine-tagged proteins to patterns formed by far-field and near-field exposure of films of aminosilanes with protein-resistant photolabile protecting groups is demonstrated. After deprotection of the aminosilane, either through a mask or using a scanning near-field optical microscope, the amine terminal groups are derivatized first with glutaraldehyde and then with N-(5-amino-1-carboxypentyl)iminodiacetic acid to yield a nitrilo-triacetic-acid-terminated surface. After complexation with Ni2+, this surface binds histidine-tagged GFP and CpcA-PEB in a site-specific fashion. The chemistry is simple and reliable and leads to extensive surface functionalization. Bright fluorescence is observed in fluorescence microscopy images of micrometer- and nanometer-scale patterns. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy is used to study quantitatively the efficiency of photodeprotection and the reactivity of the modified surfaces. The efficiency of the protein binding process is investigated quantitatively by ellipsometry and by fluorescence microscopy. We find that regions of the surface not exposed to UV light bind negligible amounts of His-tagged proteins, indicating that the oligo(ethylene glycol) adduct on the nitrophenyl protecting group confers excellent protein resistance; in contrast, exposed regions bind His-GFP very effectively, yielding strong fluorescence that is almost completely removed on treatment of the surface with imidazole, confirming a degree of site-specific binding in excess of 90%. This simple strategy offers a versatile generic route to the spatially selective site-specific immobilization of proteins at surfaces. PMID:26820378

  17. Characterization of Avt1p as a vacuolar proton/amino acid antiporter in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

    PubMed

    Tone, Junichi; Yoshimura, Ayumi; Manabe, Kunio; Murao, Nami; Sekito, Takayuki; Kawano-Kawada, Miyuki; Kakinuma, Yoshimi

    2015-01-01

    Several genes for vacuolar amino acid transport were reported in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, but have not well been investigated. We characterized AVT1, a member of the AVT vacuolar transporter family, which is reported to be involved in lifespan of yeast. ATP-dependent uptake of isoleucine and histidine by the vacuolar vesicles of an AVT exporter mutant was lost by introducing avt1∆ mutation. Uptake activity was inhibited by the V-ATPase inhibitor: concanamycin A and a protonophore. Isoleucine uptake was inhibited by various neutral amino acids and histidine, but not by γ-aminobutyric acid, glutamate, and aspartate. V-ATPase-dependent acidification of the vesicles was declined by the addition of isoleucine or histidine, depending upon Avt1p. Taken together with the data of the amino acid contents of vacuolar fractions in cells, the results suggested that Avt1p is a proton/amino acid antiporter important for vacuolar compartmentalization of various amino acids.

  18. Mechanisms of High Temperature Resistance of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803: An Impact of Histidine Kinase 34.

    PubMed

    Červený, Jan; Sinetova, Maria A; Zavřel, Tomáš; Los, Dmitry A

    2015-03-02

    Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 is a widely used model cyanobacterium for studying responses and acclimation to different abiotic stresses. Changes in transcriptome, proteome, lipidome, and photosynthesis in response to short term heat stress are well studied in this organism, and histidine kinase 34 (Hik34) is shown to play an important role in mediating such response. Corresponding data on long term responses, however, are fragmentary and vary depending on parameters of experiments and methods of data collection, and thus are hard to compare. In order to elucidate how the early stress responses help cells to sustain long-term heat stress, as well as the role of Hik34 in prolonged acclimation, we examined the resistance to long-term heat stress of wild-type and ΔHik34 mutant of Synechocystis. In this work, we were able to precisely control the long term experimental conditions by cultivating Synechocystis in automated photobioreactors, measuring selected physiological parameters within a time range of minutes. In addition, morphological and ultrastructural changes in cells were analyzed and western blotting of individual proteins was used to study the heat stress-affected protein expression. We have shown that the majority of wild type cell population was able to recover after 24 h of cultivation at 44 °C. In contrast, while ΔHik34 mutant cells were resistant to heat stress within its first hours, they could not recover after 24 h long high temperature treatment. We demonstrated that the early induction of HspA expression and maintenance of high amount of other HSPs throughout the heat incubation is critical for successful adaptation to long-term stress. In addition, it appears that histidine kinase Hik34 is an essential component for the long term high temperature resistance.

  19. In vivo Metabolism of Hydrolyzed Fumonisin B1 and Fumonisin B1

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Fumonisin B1 (FB1) is the most prevalent fumonisin mycotoxin found in corn and corn-based foods. It inhibits ceramide synthase, disrupts sphingolipid metabolism and function, is toxic to animals, causes cancer in rodents, and induces neural tube defects in some mouse strains. Its human health effect...

  20. Avermectin B1

    Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

    Avermectin B1 ; CASRN 65195 - 55 - 3 Human health assessment information on a chemical substance is included in the IRIS database only after a comprehensive review of toxicity data , as outlined in the IRIS assessment development process . Sections I ( Health Hazard Assessments for Noncarcinogenic E

  1. Cyclophilin B enhances HIV-1 infection

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

    DeBoer, Jason; Madson, Christian J.; Belshan, Michael, E-mail: michaelbelshan@creighton.edu

    Cyclophilin B (CypB) is a member of the immunophilin family and intracellular chaperone. It predominantly localizes to the ER, but also contains a nuclear localization signal and is secreted from cells. CypB has been shown to interact with the Gag protein of human immunodeficiency type 1 (HIV-1). Several proteomic and genetic studies identified it as a potential factor involved in HIV replication. Herein, we show that over-expression of CypB enhances HIV infection by increasing nuclear import of viral DNA. This enhancement was unaffected by cyclosporine treatment and requires the N-terminus of the protein. The N-terminus contains an ER leader sequence,more » putative nuclear localization signal, and is required for secretion. Deletion of the N-terminus resulted in mislocalization from the ER and suppression of HIV infection. Passive transfer experiments showed that secreted CypB did not impact HIV infection. Combined, these experiments show that intracellular CypB modulates a pathway of HIV nuclear import. - Highlights: • CypB has been identified in several proteomic studies of HIV-1 infection. • CypB expression is upregulated in activated and infected T-cells. • Over-expression of CypB enhances HIV nuclear import and infection. • The N-terminus of CypB is necessary for these effects.« less

  2. HSD3B2, HSD17B1, HSD17B2, ESR1, ESR2 and AR expression in infertile women with endometriosis.

    PubMed

    Osiński, Maciej; Wirstlein, Przemysław; Wender-Ożegowska, Ewa; Mikołajczyk, Mateusz; Jagodziński, Paweł Piotr; Szczepańska, Małgorzata

    2018-01-01

    The development of endometriosis is associated with changes in the expression of genes encoding the 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type II (HSD3B2) and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type II (HSD17B2), estrogen receptors 1 (ESR1) and 2 (ESR2) and the androgen receptor (AR). However, little is known about the expression of HSD3B2, HSD17B1, HSD17B2, ESR1 ESR2 and AR during the endometrial phases in eutopic endometrium from infertile women with endometriosis. Using RT-qPCR analysis, we assessed the expression of the studied genes in the follicular and luteal phases in eutopic endometrium from fertile women (n = 17) and infertile women (n = 35) with endometriosis. In the mid-follicular eutopic endometrium, we observed a significant increase in HSD3B2 transcript levels in all infertile women with endometriosis (p = 0.003), in infertile women with stage I/II endometriosis (p = 0.008) and in infertile women with stage III/IV endometriosis (p = 0.009) compared to all fertile women. There was a significant increase in ESR1 tran-scripts in all infertile women with endometriosis (p = 0.008) and in infertile women with stage I/II endometriosis (p = 0.019) and in infertile women with stage III/IV endometriosis (p = 0.023) compared to all fertile women. In the mid-luteal eutopic endometrium, we did not observe significant differences in HSD3B2, HSD17B1, HSD17B2, ESR1, ESR2 and AR transcripts between infertile women with endometriosis and fertile women. Observed significant increase in HSD3B2 and ESR1 transcripts in follicular eutopic endometrium from infer-tile women with endometriosis may be related to abnormal biological effect of E2 in endometrium, further affecting the development of human embryos.

  3. Relatedness of the O-polysaccharide structures of Escherichia coli O123 and Salmonella enterica O58, both containing 4,6-dideoxy-4-{N-[(S)-3-hydroxybutanoyl]-D-alanyl}amino-D-glucose; revision of the E. coli O123 O-polysaccharide structure.

    PubMed

    Perepelov, Andrei V; Liu, Bin; Shevelev, Sergei D; Senchenkova, Sof'ya N; Shashkov, Alexander S; Feng, Lu; Knirel, Yuriy A; Wang, Lei

    2010-04-19

    O-Polysaccharides were isolated by mild acid degradation of the lipopolysaccharides of Escherichia coli O123 and Salmonella enterica O58 and studied by chemical methods and 2D (1)H and (13)C NMR spectroscopy, including experiments in a H(2)O/D(2)O mixture, which enabled observation of correlations for nitrogen-linked protons. The following structure of the O-polysaccharide of E. coli O123 was established: -->3)-beta-D-Quip4NAlaHb-(1-->6)-alpha-D-GlcpNAc-(1-->3)-alpha-L-QuipNAc-(1-->3)-alpha-D-Glcp (6)(approx. 30% OAc)NAc-(1--> where L-QuipNAc stands for 2-acetamido-2,6-dideoxy-L-glucose and D-Qui4NAlaHb for 4-{N-[(S)-3-hydroxybutanoyl]-D-alanyl}amino-4,6-dideoxy-D-glucose. The latter was isolated as an ethylene glycol glycoside by three sequential Smith degradations of the O-deacetylated O-polysaccharide. The structure established in this work is at variance with the E. coli O123-polysaccharide structure reported earlier [Clark, C. G.; Kropinski, A. M.; Parolis, H.; Grant, C. C.; Trout-Yakel, K. M.; Franklin, K.; Ng, L. K.; Paramonov, N. A.; Parolis, L. A.; Rahn, K.; Tabor, H. J. Med. Microbiol.2009, 58, 884-894]. In accordance with the genetic data, the O-polysaccharide of S. enterica O58 has the same structure, except for it lacks the O-acetylation. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. 26 CFR 1.410(b)-1 - Minimum coverage requirements (before 1994).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... plan satisfies section 410(b)(1) if it satisfies the requirements of paragraph (b)(1) or (b)(2) of this... this subparagraph if it benefits— (i) Seventy percent or more of all employees, or (ii) Eighty percent... requirements of section 410(b)(1) and this subparagraph if it benefits such employees as qualify under a...

  5. Dual-mode fluorophore-doped nickel nitrilotriacetic acid-modified silica nanoparticles combine histidine-tagged protein purification with site-specific fluorophore labeling.

    PubMed

    Kim, Sung Hoon; Jeyakumar, M; Katzenellenbogen, John A

    2007-10-31

    We present the first example of a fluorophore-doped nickel chelate surface-modified silica nanoparticle that functions in a dual mode, combining histidine-tagged protein purification with site-specific fluorophore labeling. Tetramethylrhodamine (TMR)-doped silica nanoparticles, estimated to contain 700-900 TMRs per ca. 23 nm particle, were surface modified with nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), producing TMR-SiO2-NTA-Ni2+. Silica-embedded TMR retains very high quantum yield, is resistant to quenching by buffer components, and is modestly quenched and only to a certain depth (ca. 2 nm) by surface-attached Ni2+. When exposed to a bacterial lysate containing estrogen receptor alpha ligand binding domain (ERalpha) as a minor component, these beads showed very high specificity binding, enabling protein purification in one step. The capacity and specificity of these beads for binding a his-tagged protein were characterized by electrophoresis, radiometric counting, and MALDI-TOF MS. ERalpha, bound to TMR-SiO2-NTA-Ni++ beads in a site-specific manner, exhibited good activity for ligand binding and for ligand-induced binding to coactivators in solution FRET experiments and protein microarray fluorometric and FRET assays. This dual-mode type TMR-SiO2-NTA-Ni2+ system represents a powerful combination of one-step histidine-tagged protein purification and site-specific labeling with multiple fluorophore species.

  6. Crystal Structures of Trypanosoma cruzi UDP-Galactopyranose Mutase Implicate Flexibility of the Histidine Loop in Enzyme Activation

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

    Dhatwalia, Richa; Singh, Harkewal; Oppenheimer, Michelle

    2012-11-01

    Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Here we report crystal structures of the galactofuranose biosynthetic enzyme UDP-galactopyranose mutase (UGM) from T. cruzi, which are the first structures of this enzyme from a protozoan parasite. UGM is an attractive target for drug design because galactofuranose is absent in humans but is an essential component of key glycoproteins and glycolipids in trypanosomatids. Analysis of the enzyme-UDP noncovalent interactions and sequence alignments suggests that substrate recognition is exquisitely conserved among eukaryotic UGMs and distinct from that of bacterial UGMs. This observation has implications for inhibitormore » design. Activation of the enzyme via reduction of the FAD induces profound conformational changes, including a 2.3 {angstrom} movement of the histidine loop (Gly60-Gly61-His62), rotation and protonation of the imidazole of His62, and cooperative movement of residues located on the si face of the FAD. Interestingly, these changes are substantially different from those described for Aspergillus fumigatus UGM, which is 45% identical to T. cruzi UGM. The importance of Gly61 and His62 for enzymatic activity was studied with the site-directed mutant enzymes G61A, G61P, and H62A. These mutations lower the catalytic efficiency by factors of 10-50, primarily by decreasing k{sub cat}. Considered together, the structural, kinetic, and sequence data suggest that the middle Gly of the histidine loop imparts flexibility that is essential for activation of eukaryotic UGMs. Our results provide new information about UGM biochemistry and suggest a unified strategy for designing inhibitors of UGMs from the eukaryotic pathogens.« less

  7. Crystal Structures of Trypanosoma cruzi UDP-Galactopyranose Mutase Implicate Flexibility of the Histidine Loop in Enzyme Activation

    PubMed Central

    Dhatwalia, Richa; Singh, Harkewal; Oppenheimer, Michelle; Sobrado, Pablo; Tanner, John J.

    2012-01-01

    Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Here we report crystal structures of the galactofuranose biosynthetic enzyme UDP-galactopyranose mutase (UGM) from T. cruzi, which are the first structures of this enzyme from a protozoan parasite. UGM is an attractive target for drug design because galactofuranose is absent in humans but is an essential component of key glycoproteins and glycolipids in trypanosomatids. Analysis of the enzyme-UDP noncovalent interactions and sequence alignments suggests that substrate recognition is exquisitely conserved among eukaryotic UGMs and distinct from that of bacterial UGMs. This observation has implications for inhibitor design. Activation of the enzyme via reduction of the FAD induces profound conformational changes, including a 2.3-Å movement of the histidine loop (Gly60-Gly61-His62), rotation and protonation of the imidazole of His62, and cooperative movement of residues located on the si face of the FAD. Interestingly, these changes are substantially different from those described for Aspergillus fumigatus UGM, which is 45 % identical to T. cruzi UGM. The importance of Gly61 and His62 for enzymatic activity was studied with the site-directed mutant enzymes G61A, G61P, and H62A. These mutations lower the catalytic efficiency by factors of 10–50, primarily by decreasing kcat. Considered together, the structural, kinetic, and sequence data suggest that the middle Gly of the histidine loop imparts flexibility that is essential for activation of eukaryotic UGMs. Our results provide new information about UGM biochemistry and suggest a unified strategy for designing inhibitors of UGMs from the eukaryotic pathogens. PMID:22646091

  8. Crystal structures of Trypanosoma cruzi UDP-galactopyranose mutase implicate flexibility of the histidine loop in enzyme activation.

    PubMed

    Dhatwalia, Richa; Singh, Harkewal; Oppenheimer, Michelle; Sobrado, Pablo; Tanner, John J

    2012-06-19

    Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Here we report crystal structures of the galactofuranose biosynthetic enzyme UDP-galactopyranose mutase (UGM) from T. cruzi, which are the first structures of this enzyme from a protozoan parasite. UGM is an attractive target for drug design because galactofuranose is absent in humans but is an essential component of key glycoproteins and glycolipids in trypanosomatids. Analysis of the enzyme-UDP noncovalent interactions and sequence alignments suggests that substrate recognition is exquisitely conserved among eukaryotic UGMs and distinct from that of bacterial UGMs. This observation has implications for inhibitor design. Activation of the enzyme via reduction of the FAD induces profound conformational changes, including a 2.3 Å movement of the histidine loop (Gly60-Gly61-His62), rotation and protonation of the imidazole of His62, and cooperative movement of residues located on the si face of the FAD. Interestingly, these changes are substantially different from those described for Aspergillus fumigatus UGM, which is 45% identical to T. cruzi UGM. The importance of Gly61 and His62 for enzymatic activity was studied with the site-directed mutant enzymes G61A, G61P, and H62A. These mutations lower the catalytic efficiency by factors of 10-50, primarily by decreasing k(cat). Considered together, the structural, kinetic, and sequence data suggest that the middle Gly of the histidine loop imparts flexibility that is essential for activation of eukaryotic UGMs. Our results provide new information about UGM biochemistry and suggest a unified strategy for designing inhibitors of UGMs from the eukaryotic pathogens.

  9. 26 CFR 1.50B-4 - Partnerships.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 true Partnerships. 1.50B-4 Section 1.50B-4 Internal Revenue INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY INCOME TAX INCOME TAXES Rules for Computing Credit for Expenses of Work Incentive Programs § 1.50B-4 Partnerships. (a) General rule—(1) In general...

  10. 26 CFR 1.167(b)-1 - Straight line method.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 26 Internal Revenue 2 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Straight line method. 1.167(b)-1 Section 1.167(b... Straight line method. (a) In general. Under the straight line method the cost or other basis of the... may be reduced to a percentage or fraction. The straight line method may be used in determining a...

  11. 7 CFR 1b.3 - Categorical exclusions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

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    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

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    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

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    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

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    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

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    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

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    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

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    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

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    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

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    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

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