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Biomolecules, Volume 11, Issue 10 (October 2021) – 154 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): The overexpression of telomerase in 90% of human cancers justifies the design of anticancer drugs having this enzyme as the potential target. In this context, telomerase inhibition by G-Quadruplexes (GQ) stabilizing ligands is considered a useful approach. Derivatives such as 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(N-methyl-4-pyridinium)porphyrin (H2TMPyP) are recognized to have promising features to be exploited as GQ lignds. Herein, after an insight on the structural diversity and recognition modes of GQ, studies of H2TMPyP and analogs, namely, metallocomplexes with GQ and duplex DNA sequences, were analyzed. The review was complemented with a screening where the behavior of H2TMPyP and of some metal complexes was evaluated under the same experimental conditions and using the same DNA sequences. An interesting pattern of selectivity was identified for the AgIITMPyP complex.View this paper
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25 pages, 4793 KiB  
Article
Hydrogen Sulphide Treatment Prevents Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury by Inhibiting the Expression of ICAM-1 and NF-kB Concentration in Normotensive and Hypertensive Rats
by Syed F. Hashmi, Hassaan Anwer Rathore, Munavvar A. Sattar, Edward J. Johns, Chee-Yuen Gan, Tan Yong Chia and Ashfaq Ahmad
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1549; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101549 - 19 Oct 2021
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2609 | Correction
Abstract
Our main objective was to investigate the effect of chronic administration of hydrogen sulphide donor (sodium hydrosulphide) on the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and concentration of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) in a renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) model of WKY and L-nitro-arginine-methyl-ester [...] Read more.
Our main objective was to investigate the effect of chronic administration of hydrogen sulphide donor (sodium hydrosulphide) on the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and concentration of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) in a renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) model of WKY and L-nitro-arginine-methyl-ester (L-NAME)-induced hypertensive rats. Sodium hydrosulphide (NaHS) was administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) for 35 days while cystathionine gamma lyase (CSE) inhibitor dL-propargylglycine (PAG) was administered at a single dose of 50 mg/kg. Animals were anesthetised using sodium pentobarbitone (60 mg/kg) and then prepared to induce renal ischemia by clamping the left renal artery for 30 min followed by 3 h of reperfusion. Pre-treatment with NaHS improved the renal functional parameters in both WKY and L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats along with reduction of blood pressure in hypertensive groups. Oxidative stress markers like malondialdehyde (MDA), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and glutathione (GSH) were also improved by NaHS treatment following renal IRI. Levels of ICAM-1 and NF-kB concentration were reduced by chronic treatment with NaHS and increased by PAG administration after renal IRI in plasma and kidney. Treatment with NaHS improved tubular morphology and glomerulus hypertrophy. Pre-treatment with NaHS reduced the degree of renal IRI by potentiating its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanism, as evidenced by decreased NF-kB concentration and downregulation of ICAM-1 expression. Full article
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13 pages, 1622 KiB  
Article
New Insights to Regulation of Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase during Anoxia in Red-Eared Slider, Trachemys scripta elegans
by Aakriti Gupta, Anchal Varma and Kenneth B. Storey
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1548; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101548 - 19 Oct 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4966
Abstract
The red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) undergoes numerous changes to its physiological and metabolic processes to survive without oxygen. During anoxic conditions, its metabolic rate drops drastically to minimize energy requirements. The alterations in the central metabolic pathways are often accomplished [...] Read more.
The red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) undergoes numerous changes to its physiological and metabolic processes to survive without oxygen. During anoxic conditions, its metabolic rate drops drastically to minimize energy requirements. The alterations in the central metabolic pathways are often accomplished by the regulation of key enzymes. The regulation of one such enzyme, fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase; EC 3.1.3.11), was characterized in the present study during anoxia in liver. FBPase is a crucial enzyme of gluconeogenesis. The FBPase was purified from liver tissue in both control and anoxic conditions and subsequently assayed to determine the kinetic parameters of the enzyme. The study revealed the relative degree of post-translational modifications in the FBPase from control and anoxic turtles. Further, this study demonstrated a significant decrease in the maximal activity in anoxic FBPase and decreased sensitivity to its substrate Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate (FBP) when compared to the control. Immunoblotting demonstrated increased threonine phosphorylation (~1.4-fold) in the anoxic FBPase. Taken together, these results suggest that the phosphorylation of liver FBPase is an important step in suppressing FBPase activity, ultimately leading to the inhibition of gluconeogenesis in the liver of the red-eared slider during anaerobic conditions. Full article
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15 pages, 7060 KiB  
Article
Fibrin with Laminin-Nidogen Reduces Fibrosis and Improves Soft Palate Regeneration Following Palatal Injury
by Doris H. Rosero Salazar, René E. M. van Rheden, Manon van Hulzen, Paola L. Carvajal Monroy, Frank A. D. T. G. Wagener and Johannes W. Von den Hoff
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1547; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101547 - 19 Oct 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2015
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the effects of fibrin constructs enhanced with laminin-nidogen, implanted in the wounded rat soft palate. Fibrin constructs with and without laminin-nidogen were implanted in 1 mm excisional wounds in the soft palate of 9-week-old rats and compared with [...] Read more.
This study aimed to analyze the effects of fibrin constructs enhanced with laminin-nidogen, implanted in the wounded rat soft palate. Fibrin constructs with and without laminin-nidogen were implanted in 1 mm excisional wounds in the soft palate of 9-week-old rats and compared with the wounded soft palate without implantation. Collagen deposition and myofiber formation were analyzed at days 3, 7, 28 and 56 after wounding by histochemistry. In addition, immune staining was performed for a-smooth muscle actin (a-SMA), myosin heavy chain (MyHC) and paired homeobox protein 7 (Pax7). At day 56, collagen areas were smaller in both implant groups (31.25 ± 7.73% fibrin only and 21.11 ± 6.06% fibrin with laminin-nidogen)) compared to the empty wounds (38.25 ± 8.89%, p < 0.05). Moreover, the collagen area in the fibrin with laminin-nidogen group was smaller than in the fibrin only group (p ˂ 0.05). The areas of myofiber formation in the fibrin only group (31.77 ± 10.81%) and fibrin with laminin-nidogen group (43.13 ± 10.39%) were larger than in the empty wounds (28.10 ± 11.68%, p ˂ 0.05). Fibrin-based constructs with laminin-nidogen reduce fibrosis and improve muscle regeneration in the wounded soft palate. This is a promising strategy to enhance cleft soft palate repair and other severe muscle injuries. Full article
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53 pages, 4703 KiB  
Review
Hyperhomocysteinemia: Metabolic Role and Animal Studies with a Focus on Cognitive Performance and Decline—A Review
by Hendrik Nieraad, Nina Pannwitz, Natasja de Bruin, Gerd Geisslinger and Uwe Till
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1546; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101546 - 19 Oct 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5163
Abstract
Disturbances in the one-carbon metabolism are often indicated by altered levels of the endogenous amino acid homocysteine (HCys), which is additionally discussed to causally contribute to diverse pathologies. In the first part of the present review, we profoundly and critically discuss the metabolic [...] Read more.
Disturbances in the one-carbon metabolism are often indicated by altered levels of the endogenous amino acid homocysteine (HCys), which is additionally discussed to causally contribute to diverse pathologies. In the first part of the present review, we profoundly and critically discuss the metabolic role and pathomechanisms of HCys, as well as its potential impact on different human disorders. The use of adequate animal models can aid in unravelling the complex pathological processes underlying the role of hyperhomocysteinemia (HHCys). Therefore, in the second part, we systematically searched PubMed/Medline for animal studies regarding HHCys and focused on the potential impact on cognitive performance and decline. The majority of reviewed studies reported a significant effect of HHCys on the investigated behavioral outcomes. Despite of persistent controversial discussions about equivocal findings, especially in clinical studies, the present evaluation of preclinical evidence indicates a causal link between HHCys and cognition-related- especially dementia-like disorders, and points out the further urge for large-scale, well-designed clinical studies in order to elucidate the normalization of HCys levels as a potential preventative or therapeutic approach in human pathologies. Full article
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20 pages, 35380 KiB  
Article
Coffee Bioactive N-Methylpyridinium Attenuates Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-α-Mediated Insulin Resistance and Inflammation in Human Adipocytes
by Stefano Quarta, Egeria Scoditti, Maria Annunziata Carluccio, Nadia Calabriso, Giuseppe Santarpino, Fabrizio Damiano, Luisa Siculella, Martin Wabitsch, Tiziano Verri, Claudia Favari, Daniele Del Rio, Pedro Mena, Raffaele De Caterina and Marika Massaro
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1545; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101545 - 19 Oct 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3377
Abstract
Although coffee consumption has been historically associated with negative health outcomes, recent evidence suggests a lower risk of metabolic syndrome, obesity and diabetes among regular coffee drinkers. Among the plethora of minor organic compounds assessed as potential mediators of coffee health benefits, trigonelline [...] Read more.
Although coffee consumption has been historically associated with negative health outcomes, recent evidence suggests a lower risk of metabolic syndrome, obesity and diabetes among regular coffee drinkers. Among the plethora of minor organic compounds assessed as potential mediators of coffee health benefits, trigonelline and its pyrolysis product N-methylpyridinium (NMP) were preliminary shown to promote glucose uptake and exert anti-adipogenic properties. Against this background, we aimed at characterizing the effects of trigonelline and NMP in inflamed and dysfunctional human adipocytes. Human Simpson-Golabi-Behmel syndrome (SGBS) adipocytes were treated with NMP or, for comparison, trigonelline, for 5 h before stimulation with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. NMP at concentrations as low as 1 µmol/L reduced the stimulated expression of several pro-inflammatory mediators, including C-C Motif chemokine ligand (CCL)-2, C-X-C Motif chemokine ligand (CXCL)-10, and intercellular adhesion Molecule (ICAM)-1, but left the induction of prostaglandin G/H synthase (PTGS)2, interleukin (IL)-1β, and colony stimulating factor (CSF)1 unaffected. Furthermore, NMP restored the downregulated expression of adiponectin (ADIPOQ). These effects were functionally associated with downregulation of the adhesion of monocytes to inflamed adipocytes. Under the same conditions, NMP also reversed the TNF-α-mediated suppression of insulin-stimulated Ser473 Akt phosphorylation and attenuated the induction of TNF-α-stimulated lipolysis restoring cell fat content. In an attempt to preliminarily explore the underlying mechanisms of its action, we show that NMP restores the expression of the master regulator of adipocyte differentiation peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ and downregulates activation of the pro-inflammatory mitogen-activated protein jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). In conclusion, NMP reduces adipose dysfunction in pro-inflammatory activated adipocytes. These data suggest that bioactive NMP in coffee may improve the inflammatory and dysmetabolic milieu associated with obesity. Full article
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22 pages, 2292 KiB  
Review
The Combination of Solid-State Chemistry and Medicinal Chemistry as the Basis for the Synthesis of Theranostics Platforms
by Dmitry Korolev, Viktor Postnov, Ilia Aleksandrov and Igor Murin
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1544; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101544 - 19 Oct 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1841
Abstract
This review presents the main patterns of synthesis for theranostics platforms. We examine various approaches to the interpretation of theranostics, statistics of publications drawn from the PubMed database, and the solid-state and medicinal chemistry methods used for the formation of nanotheranostic objects. We [...] Read more.
This review presents the main patterns of synthesis for theranostics platforms. We examine various approaches to the interpretation of theranostics, statistics of publications drawn from the PubMed database, and the solid-state and medicinal chemistry methods used for the formation of nanotheranostic objects. We highlight and analyze chemical methods for the modification of nanoparticles, synthesis of spacers with functional end-groups, and the immobilization of medicinal substances and fluorophores. An overview of the modern solutions applied in various fields of medicine is provided, along with an outline of specific examples and an analysis of modern trends and development areas of theranostics as a part of personalized medicine. Full article
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6 pages, 689 KiB  
Perspective
PCNA Ubiquitylation: Instructive or Permissive to DNA Damage Tolerance Pathways?
by Jun Che, Xin Hong and Hai Rao
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1543; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101543 - 19 Oct 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2514
Abstract
DNA lesions escaping from repair often block the DNA replicative polymerases required for DNA replication and are handled during the S/G2 phases by the DNA damage tolerance (DDT) mechanisms, which include the error-prone translesion synthesis (TLS) and the error-free template switching (TS) pathways. [...] Read more.
DNA lesions escaping from repair often block the DNA replicative polymerases required for DNA replication and are handled during the S/G2 phases by the DNA damage tolerance (DDT) mechanisms, which include the error-prone translesion synthesis (TLS) and the error-free template switching (TS) pathways. Where the mono-ubiquitylation of PCNA K164 is critical for TLS, the poly-ubiquitylation of the same residue is obligatory for TS. However, it is not known how cells divide the labor between TLS and TS. Due to the fact that the type of DNA lesion significantly influences the TLS and TS choice, we propose that, instead of altering the ratio between the mono- and poly-Ub forms of PCNA, the competition between TLS and TS would automatically determine the selection between the two pathways. Future studies, especially the single integrated lesion “i-Damage” system, would elucidate detailed mechanisms governing the choices of specific DDT pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Allosteric Regulation in Ubiquitin Proteasome System)
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8 pages, 1454 KiB  
Article
Higher RET Gene Expression Levels Do Not Represent anAlternative RET Activation Mechanism in Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma
by Chiara Mulè, Raffaele Ciampi, Teresa Ramone, Alessandro Prete, Antonio Matrone, Virginia Cappagli, Liborio Torregrossa, Fulvio Basolo, Rossella Elisei and Cristina Romei
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1542; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101542 - 19 Oct 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1536
Abstract
This study was designed to investigate whether RET (rearranged during transfection) mRNA over-expression could be considered an alternative driver event for the development of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), and if different RET isoforms could play a role in MTC tumorigenesis. Eighty-three MTC patients, [...] Read more.
This study was designed to investigate whether RET (rearranged during transfection) mRNA over-expression could be considered an alternative driver event for the development of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), and if different RET isoforms could play a role in MTC tumorigenesis. Eighty-three MTC patients, whose mutational profile was previously identified by next-generation sequencing (NGS) IONS5, were included in this study. Expression analysis was performed by the quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction technique. RET expression levels were found to be significantly higher in cases with RET somatic mutations than in cases that were negative for RET somatic mutations (p = 0.003) as well as in cases with a somatic mutation, either in RET or RAS than in cases negative for both these mutations (p = 0.01). All cases were positive for the RET51 isoform expression while only 72/83 (86.7%) were positive for RET9 isoform expression. A statistically significant higher expression of the RET51 isoform was found in cases positive for RET somatic mutation than in cases either positive for RAS mutation (p = 0.0006) or negative for both mutations (p = 0.001). According to our data, RET gene over-expression does not play a role in MTC tumorigenesis, neither as an entire gene or as an isoform. At variance, the RET gene, and in particular the RET51 isoform, is expressed higher in RET mutated cases. On the basis of these results we can hypothesize that the overexpression of RET, and in particular of RET51, could potentiate the transforming activity of mutated RET, making these cases more aggressive. Full article
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14 pages, 1209 KiB  
Article
Data Mining of Molecular Simulations Suggest Key Amino Acid Residues for Aggregation, Signaling and Drug Action
by Vaibhav Gurunathan, John Hamre III, Dmitri K. Klimov and Mohsin Saleet Jafri
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1541; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101541 - 19 Oct 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2306
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, currently has no cure. There are only temporary treatments that reduce symptoms and the progression of the disease. Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the prevalence of plaques of aggregated amyloid β (Aβ) peptide. Recent treatments [...] Read more.
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, currently has no cure. There are only temporary treatments that reduce symptoms and the progression of the disease. Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the prevalence of plaques of aggregated amyloid β (Aβ) peptide. Recent treatments to prevent plaque formation have provided little to relieve disease symptoms. Although there have been numerous molecular simulation studies on the mechanisms of Aβ aggregation, the signaling role has been less studied. In this study, a total of over 38,000 simulated structures, generated from molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, exploring different conformations of the Aβ42 mutants and wild-type peptides were used to examine the relationship between Aβ torsion angles and disease measures. Unique methods characterized the data set and pinpointed residues that were associated in aggregation and others associated with signaling. Machine learning techniques were applied to characterize the molecular simulation data and classify how much each residue influenced the predicted variant of Alzheimer’s Disease. Orange3 data mining software provided the ability to use these techniques to generate tables and rank the data. The test and score module coupled with the confusion matrix module analyzed data with calculations of specificity and sensitivity. These methods evaluating frequency and rank allowed us to analyze and predict important residues associated with different phenotypic measures. This research has the potential to help understand which specific residues of Aβ should be targeted for drug development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Core of Biomolecules Affecting Degenerative Disorders)
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15 pages, 31008 KiB  
Article
Angiogenic Potential of VEGF Mimetic Peptides for the Biofunctionalization of Collagen/Hydroxyapatite Composites
by Suya Wang, Felix Umrath, Wanjing Cen, Siegmar Reinert and Dorothea Alexander
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1538; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101538 - 19 Oct 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3138
Abstract
Currently, the focus on bioinspired concepts for the development of tissue engineering constructs is increasing. For this purpose, the combination of collagen (Coll) and hydroxyapatite (HA) comes closest to the natural composition of the bone. In order to confer angiogenic properties to the [...] Read more.
Currently, the focus on bioinspired concepts for the development of tissue engineering constructs is increasing. For this purpose, the combination of collagen (Coll) and hydroxyapatite (HA) comes closest to the natural composition of the bone. In order to confer angiogenic properties to the scaffold material, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is frequently used. In the present study, we used a VEGF mimetic peptide (QK) and a modified QK-peptide with a poly-glutamic acid tag (E7-QK) to enhance binding to HA, and analyzed in detail binding efficiency and angiogenic properties. We detected a significantly higher binding efficiency of E7-QK peptides to hydroxyapatite particles compared to the unmodified QK-peptide. Tube formation assays revealed similar angiogenic functions of E7-QK peptide (1µM) as induced by the entire VEGF protein. Analyses of gene expression of angiogenic factors and their receptors (FLT-1, KDR, HGF, MET, IL-8, HIF-1α, MMP-1, IGFBP-1, IGFBP-2, VCAM-1, and ANGPT-1) showed higher expression levels in HUVECs cultured in the presence of 1 µM E7-QK and VEGF compared to those detected in the negative control group without any angiogenic stimuli. In contrast, the expression of the anti-angiogenic gene TIMP-1 showed lower mRNA levels in HUVECs cultured with E7-QK and VEGF. Sprouting assays with HUVEC spheroids within Coll/HA/E7-QK scaffolds showed significantly longer sprouts compared to those induced within Coll/HA/QK or Coll/HA scaffolds. Our results demonstrate a significantly better functionality of the E7-QK peptide, electrostatically bound to hydroxyapatite particles compared to that of unmodified QK peptide. We conclude that the used E7-QK peptide represents an excellently suited biomolecule for the generation of collagen/hydroxyapatite composites with angiogenic properties. Full article
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11 pages, 6714 KiB  
Article
Biocatalytic Production of Aldehydes: Exploring the Potential of Lathyrus cicera Amine Oxidase
by Elisa Di Fabio, Alessio Incocciati, Alberto Boffi, Alessandra Bonamore and Alberto Macone
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1540; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101540 - 18 Oct 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1849
Abstract
Aldehydes are a class of carbonyl compounds widely used as intermediates in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. To date, there are few fully enzymatic methods for synthesizing these highly reactive chemicals. In the present work, we explore the biocatalytic potential of an [...] Read more.
Aldehydes are a class of carbonyl compounds widely used as intermediates in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. To date, there are few fully enzymatic methods for synthesizing these highly reactive chemicals. In the present work, we explore the biocatalytic potential of an amino oxidase extracted from the etiolated shoots of Lathyrus cicera for the synthesis of value-added aldehydes, starting from the corresponding primary amines. In this frame, we have developed a completely chromatography-free purification protocol based on crossflow ultrafiltration, which makes the production of this enzyme easily scalable. Furthermore, we determined the kinetic parameters of the amine oxidase toward 20 differently substituted aliphatic and aromatic primary amines, and we developed a biocatalytic process for their conversion into the corresponding aldehydes. The reaction occurs in aqueous media at neutral pH in the presence of catalase, which removes the hydrogen peroxide produced during the reaction itself, contributing to the recycling of oxygen. A high conversion (>95%) was achieved within 3 h for all the tested compounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Section Molecular Medicine)
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26 pages, 1847 KiB  
Review
Potential Mechanisms of Plant-Derived Natural Products in the Treatment of Cervical Cancer
by Meizhu He, Lijie Xia and Jinyao Li
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1539; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101539 - 18 Oct 2021
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3235
Abstract
Cervical cancer is the second most common gynecological malignancy globally; it seriously endangers women’s health because of its high morbidity and mortality. Conventional treatments are prone to drug resistance, recurrence and metastasis. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new drugs with [...] Read more.
Cervical cancer is the second most common gynecological malignancy globally; it seriously endangers women’s health because of its high morbidity and mortality. Conventional treatments are prone to drug resistance, recurrence and metastasis. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new drugs with high efficacy and low side effects to prevent and treat cervical cancer. In recent years, plant-derived natural products have been evaluated as potential anticancer drugs that preferentially kill tumor cells without severe adverse effects. A growing number of studies have shown that natural products can achieve practical anti-cervical-cancer effects through multiple mechanisms, including inhibition of tumor-cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, suppression of angiogenesis and telomerase activity, enhancement of immunity and reversal of multidrug resistance. This paper reviews the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of plant-derived natural products on cervical cancer and provides references for developing anti-cervical-cancer drugs with high efficacy and low side effects. Full article
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16 pages, 3155 KiB  
Article
Natural Product Isoliquiritigenin Activates GABAB Receptors to Decrease Voltage-Gate Ca2+ Channels and Glutamate Release in Rat Cerebrocortical Nerve Terminals
by Tzu-Yu Lin, Cheng-Wei Lu, Pei-Wen Hsieh, Kuan-Ming Chiu, Ming-Yi Lee and Su-Jane Wang
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1537; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101537 - 18 Oct 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1965
Abstract
Reduction in glutamate release is a key mechanism for neuroprotection and we investigated the effect of isoliquiritigenin (ISL), an active ingredient of Glycyrrhiza with neuroprotective activities, on glutamate release in rat cerebrocortical nerve terminals (synaptosomes). ISL produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of glutamate release [...] Read more.
Reduction in glutamate release is a key mechanism for neuroprotection and we investigated the effect of isoliquiritigenin (ISL), an active ingredient of Glycyrrhiza with neuroprotective activities, on glutamate release in rat cerebrocortical nerve terminals (synaptosomes). ISL produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of glutamate release and reduced the intraterminal [Ca2+] increase. The inhibition of glutamate release by ISL was prevented after removing extracellular Ca2+ or blocking P/Q-type Ca2+ channels. This inhibition was mediated through the γ-aminobutyric acid type B (GABAB) receptors because ISL was unable to inhibit glutamate release in the presence of baclofen (an GABAB agonist) or CGP3548 (an GABAB antagonist) and docking data revealed that ISL interacted with GABAB receptors. Furthermore, the ISL inhibition of glutamate release was abolished through the inhibition of Gi/o-mediated responses or Gβγ subunits, but not by 8-bromoadenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate or adenylate cyclase inhibition. The ISL inhibition of glutamate release was also abolished through the inhibition of protein kinase C (PKC), and ISL decreased the phosphorylation of PKC. Thus, we inferred that ISL, through GABAB receptor activation and Gβγ-coupled inhibition of P/Q-type Ca2+ channels, suppressed the PKC phosphorylation to cause a decrease in evoked glutamate release at rat cerebrocortical nerve terminals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural and Bio-inspired Molecules)
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20 pages, 3458 KiB  
Article
Automated Fiber Diameter and Porosity Measurements of Plasma Clots in Scanning Electron Microscopy Images
by Ali Daraei, Marlien Pieters, Stephen R. Baker, Zelda de Lange-Loots, Aleksander Siniarski, Rustem I. Litvinov, Caroline S. B. Veen, Moniek P. M. de Maat, John W. Weisel, Robert A. S. Ariëns and Martin Guthold
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1536; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101536 - 18 Oct 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3187
Abstract
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is a powerful, high-resolution imaging technique widely used to analyze the structure of fibrin networks. Currently, structural features, such as fiber diameter, length, density, and porosity, are mostly analyzed manually, which is tedious and may introduce user bias. A [...] Read more.
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is a powerful, high-resolution imaging technique widely used to analyze the structure of fibrin networks. Currently, structural features, such as fiber diameter, length, density, and porosity, are mostly analyzed manually, which is tedious and may introduce user bias. A reliable, automated structural image analysis method would mitigate these drawbacks. We evaluated the performance of DiameterJ (an ImageJ plug-in) for analyzing fibrin fiber diameter by comparing automated DiameterJ outputs with manual diameter measurements in four SEM data sets with different imaging parameters. We also investigated correlations between biophysical fibrin clot properties and diameter, and between clot permeability and DiameterJ-determined clot porosity. Several of the 24 DiameterJ algorithms returned diameter values that highly correlated with and closely matched the values of the manual measurements. However, optimal performance was dependent on the pixel size of the images—best results were obtained for images with a pixel size of 8–10 nm (13–16 pixels/fiber). Larger or smaller pixels resulted in an over- or underestimation of diameter values, respectively. The correlation between clot permeability and DiameterJ-determined clot porosity was modest, likely because it is difficult to establish the correct image depth of field in this analysis. In conclusion, several DiameterJ algorithms (M6, M5, T3) perform well for diameter determination from SEM images, given the appropriate imaging conditions (13–16 pixels/fiber). Determining fibrin clot porosity via DiameterJ is challenging. Full article
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15 pages, 653 KiB  
Article
Changes of Metabolic Biomarker Levels upon One-Year Anti-TNF-α Therapy in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis: Associations with Vascular Pathophysiology
by Monika Czókolyová, Anita Pusztai, Edit Végh, Ágnes Horváth, Anita Szentpéteri, Attila Hamar, Szilvia Szamosi, Katalin Hodosi, Andrea Domján, Sándor Szántó, György Kerekes, Ildikó Seres, Mariann Harangi, György Paragh, Éva Szekanecz, Zoltán Szekanecz and Gabriella Szűcs
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1535; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101535 - 18 Oct 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2513
Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular (CV) morbidity, mortality, and metabolic syndrome are associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Here, lipids and other metabolic markers in relation to vascular function and clinical markers were evaluated in RA and AS patients undergoing one-year anti-TNF therapy. [...] Read more.
Background: Cardiovascular (CV) morbidity, mortality, and metabolic syndrome are associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Here, lipids and other metabolic markers in relation to vascular function and clinical markers were evaluated in RA and AS patients undergoing one-year anti-TNF therapy. Patients and methods: Fifty-three patients including 36 RA patients treated with either etanercept (ETN) or certolizumab pegol (CZP) and 17 AS patients treated with ETN were included in a 12-month follow-up study. Various lipids, paraoxonase (PON) and arylesterase (ARE) activities, myeloperoxidase (MPO) and adipokine levels were determined overtime. Ultrasonography was performed to determine flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), common carotid intima-media thickness (ccIMT), and arterial pulse-wave velocity (PWV) in all patients. All assessments were performed at baseline and 6 and 12 months after treatment initiation. Results: Anti-TNF therapy decreased ARE activity, MPO, adiponectin, and chemerin levels after 12 months (p < 0.05). Lipids, PON activity, and leptin remained unchanged. Regression analyses suggested variable associations of IMT, PWV, and FMD with ARE, MPO, leptin, and lipids (p < 0.05). On the other hand, these metabolic parameters were significantly associated with disease duration, CV history, CRP, obesity, PWV, and IMT (p < 0.05). One-year anti-TNF treatment together with baseline leptin (p = 0.039) or CRP (p = 0.016) levels determined 12 months of lipid changes overtime. TNF inhibition together with baseline disease activity determined ARE activity changes (p = 0.046). Anti-TNF therapy and baseline chemerin levels determined IMT changes overtime (p = 0.003). Conclusions: Assessment of various metabolic parameters together with disease activity, CRP, and ultrasound-based techniques may exert additional value in determining CV burden and in monitoring the effects of biologics on preclinical vascular pathophysiology. Full article
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19 pages, 31418 KiB  
Article
Reversal of ABCG2/BCRP-Mediated Multidrug Resistance by 5,3′,5′-Trihydroxy-3,6,7,4′-Tetramethoxyflavone Isolated from the Australian Desert Plant Eremophila galeata Chinnock
by Malene J. Petersen, Xamuel L. Lund, Susan J. Semple, Bevan Buirchell, Henrik Franzyk, Michael Gajhede, Kenneth T. Kongstad, Jan Stenvang and Dan Staerk
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1534; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101534 - 18 Oct 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5417
Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a major challenge in cancer treatment, and the breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) is an important target in the search for new MDR-reversing drugs. With the aim of discovering new potential BCRP inhibitors, the crude extract of leaves of [...] Read more.
Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a major challenge in cancer treatment, and the breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) is an important target in the search for new MDR-reversing drugs. With the aim of discovering new potential BCRP inhibitors, the crude extract of leaves of Eremophila galeata, a plant endemic to Australia, was investigated for inhibitory activity of parental (HT29par) as well as BCRP-overexpressing HT29 colon cancer cells resistant to the chemotherapeutic SN-38 (i.e., HT29SN38 cells). This identified a fraction, eluted with 40% acetonitrile on a solid-phase extraction column, which showed weak growth-inhibitory activity on HT29SN38 cells when administered alone, but exhibited concentration-dependent growth inhibition when administered in combination with SN-38. The major constituent in this fraction was isolated and found to be 5,3′,5′-trihydroxy-3,6,7,4′-tetramethoxyflavone (2), which at a concentration of 25 μg/mL potentiated the growth-inhibitory activity of SN-38 to a degree comparable to that of the known BCRP inhibitor Ko143 at 1 μM. A dye accumulation experiment suggested that 2 inhibits BCRP, and docking studies showed that 2 binds to the same BCRP site as SN-38. These results indicate that 2 acts synergistically with SN-38, with 2 being a BCRP efflux pump inhibitor while SN-38 inhibits topoisomerase-1. Full article
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21 pages, 4796 KiB  
Article
CRMP2 as a Candidate Target to Interfere with Lung Cancer Cell Migration
by Xabier Morales, Rafael Peláez, Saray Garasa, Carlos Ortiz de Solórzano and Ana Rouzaut
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1533; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101533 - 18 Oct 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2329
Abstract
Collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2) is an adaptor protein that adds tubulin dimers to the growing tip of a microtubule. First described in neurons, it is now considered a ubiquitous protein that intervenes in processes such as cytoskeletal remodeling, synaptic connection and [...] Read more.
Collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2) is an adaptor protein that adds tubulin dimers to the growing tip of a microtubule. First described in neurons, it is now considered a ubiquitous protein that intervenes in processes such as cytoskeletal remodeling, synaptic connection and trafficking of voltage channels. Mounting evidence supports that CRMP2 plays an essential role in neuropathology and, more recently, in cancer. We have previously described a positive correlation between nuclear phosphorylation of CRMP2 and poor prognosis in lung adenocarcinoma patients. In this work, we studied whether this cytoskeleton molding protein is involved in cancer cell migration. To this aim, we evaluated CRMP2 phosphorylation and localization in the extending lamella of lung adenocarcinoma migrating cells using in vitro assays and in vivo confocal microscopy. We demonstrated that constitutive phosphorylation of CRMP2 impaired lamella formation, cell adhesion and oriented migration. In search of a mechanistic explanation of this phenomenon, we discovered that CRMP2 Ser522 phospho-mimetic mutants display unstable tubulin polymers, unable to bind EB1 plus-Tip protein and the cortical actin adaptor IQGAP1. In addition, integrin recycling is defective and invasive structures are less evident in these mutants. Significantly, mouse xenograft tumors of NSCLC expressing CRMP2 phosphorylation mimetic mutants grew significantly less than wild-type tumors. Given the recent development of small molecule inhibitors of CRMP2 phosphorylation to treat neurodegenerative diseases, our results open the door for their use in cancer treatment. Full article
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23 pages, 2779 KiB  
Review
Decoding Stem Cells: An Overview on Planarian Stem Cell Heterogeneity and Lineage Progression
by M. Dolores Molina and Francesc Cebrià
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1532; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101532 - 17 Oct 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5959
Abstract
Planarians are flatworms capable of whole-body regeneration, able to regrow any missing body part after injury or amputation. The extraordinary regenerative capacity of planarians is based upon the presence in the adult of a large population of somatic pluripotent stem cells. These cells, [...] Read more.
Planarians are flatworms capable of whole-body regeneration, able to regrow any missing body part after injury or amputation. The extraordinary regenerative capacity of planarians is based upon the presence in the adult of a large population of somatic pluripotent stem cells. These cells, called neoblasts, offer a unique system to study the process of stem cell specification and differentiation in vivo. In recent years, FACS-based isolation of neoblasts, RNAi functional analyses as well as high-throughput approaches such as single-cell sequencing have allowed a rapid progress in our understanding of many different aspects of neoblast biology. Here, we summarize our current knowledge on the molecular signatures that define planarian neoblasts heterogeneity, which includes a percentage of truly pluripotent stem cells, and guide the commitment of pluripotent neoblasts into lineage-specific progenitor cells, as well as their differentiation into specific planarian cell types. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Stem Cell Regulation)
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16 pages, 999 KiB  
Review
MicroRNAs and Metabolism: Revisiting the Warburg Effect with Emphasis on Epigenetic Background and Clinical Applications
by Zsuzsanna Gaál
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1531; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101531 - 17 Oct 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3469
Abstract
Since the well-known hallmarks of cancer were described by Hanahan and Weinberg, fundamental advances of molecular genomic technologies resulted in the discovery of novel puzzle pieces in the multistep pathogenesis of cancer. MicroRNAs are involved in the altered epigenetic pattern and metabolic phenotype [...] Read more.
Since the well-known hallmarks of cancer were described by Hanahan and Weinberg, fundamental advances of molecular genomic technologies resulted in the discovery of novel puzzle pieces in the multistep pathogenesis of cancer. MicroRNAs are involved in the altered epigenetic pattern and metabolic phenotype of malignantly transformed cells. They contribute to the initiation, progression and metastasis-formation of cancers, also interacting with oncogenes, tumor-suppressor genes and epigenetic modifiers. Metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells results from the dysregulation of a complex network, in which microRNAs are located at central hubs. MicroRNAs regulate the expression of several metabolic enzymes, including tumor-specific isoforms. Therefore, they have a direct impact on the levels of metabolites, also influencing epigenetic pattern due to the metabolite cofactors of chromatin modifiers. Targets of microRNAs include numerous epigenetic enzymes, such as sirtuins, which are key regulators of cellular metabolic homeostasis. A better understanding of reversible epigenetic and metabolic alterations opened up new horizons in the personalized treatment of cancer. MicroRNA expression levels can be utilized in differential diagnosis, prognosis stratification and prediction of chemoresistance. The therapeutic modulation of microRNA levels is an area of particular interest that provides a promising tool for restoring altered metabolism of cancer cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue MicroRNAs - Small Molecules with Great Potential in Tumorigenesis)
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26 pages, 6249 KiB  
Article
Cdc42-Specific GTPase-Activating Protein Rga1 Squelches Crosstalk between the High-Osmolarity Glycerol (HOG) and Mating Pheromone Response MAPK Pathways
by Jesse C. Patterson, Louise S. Goupil and Jeremy Thorner
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1530; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101530 - 17 Oct 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3085
Abstract
Eukaryotes utilize distinct mitogen/messenger-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways to evoke appropriate responses when confronted with different stimuli. In yeast, hyperosmotic stress activates MAPK Hog1, whereas mating pheromones activate MAPK Fus3 (and MAPK Kss1). Because these pathways share several upstream components, including the small [...] Read more.
Eukaryotes utilize distinct mitogen/messenger-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways to evoke appropriate responses when confronted with different stimuli. In yeast, hyperosmotic stress activates MAPK Hog1, whereas mating pheromones activate MAPK Fus3 (and MAPK Kss1). Because these pathways share several upstream components, including the small guanosine-5'-triphosphate phosphohydrolase (GTPase) cell-division-cycle-42 (Cdc42), mechanisms must exist to prevent inadvertent cross-pathway activation. Hog1 activity is required to prevent crosstalk to Fus3 and Kss1. To identify other factors required to maintain signaling fidelity during hypertonic stress, we devised an unbiased genetic selection for mutants unable to prevent such crosstalk even when active Hog1 is present. We repeatedly isolated truncated alleles of RGA1, a Cdc42-specific GTPase-activating protein (GAP), each lacking its C-terminal catalytic domain, that permit activation of the mating MAPKs under hyperosmotic conditions despite Hog1 being present. We show that Rga1 down-regulates Cdc42 within the high-osmolarity glycerol (HOG) pathway, but not the mating pathway. Because induction of mating pathway output via crosstalk from the HOG pathway takes significantly longer than induction of HOG pathway output, our findings suggest that, under normal conditions, Rga1 contributes to signal insulation by limiting availability of the GTP-bound Cdc42 pool generated by hypertonic stress. Thus, Rga1 action contributes to squelching crosstalk by imposing a type of “kinetic proofreading”. Although Rga1 is a Hog1 substrate in vitro, we eliminated the possibility that its direct Hog1-mediated phosphorylation is necessary for its function in vivo. Instead, we found first that, like its paralog Rga2, Rga1 is subject to inhibitory phosphorylation by the S. cerevisiae cyclin-dependent protein kinase 1 (Cdk1) ortholog Cdc28 and that hyperosmotic shock stimulates its dephosphorylation and thus Rga1 activation. Second, we found that Hog1 promotes Rga1 activation by blocking its Cdk1-mediated phosphorylation, thereby allowing its phosphoprotein phosphatase 2A (PP2A)-mediated dephosphorylation. These findings shed light on why Hog1 activity is required to prevent crosstalk from the HOG pathway to the mating pheromone response pathway. Full article
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15 pages, 1523 KiB  
Review
When Order Meets Disorder: Modeling and Function of the Protein Interface in Fuzzy Complexes
by Sophie Sacquin-Mora and Chantal Prévost
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1529; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101529 - 16 Oct 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2664
Abstract
The degree of proteins structural organization ranges from highly structured, compact folding to intrinsic disorder, where each degree of self-organization corresponds to specific functions: well-organized structural motifs in enzymes offer a proper environment for precisely positioned functional groups to participate in catalytic reactions; [...] Read more.
The degree of proteins structural organization ranges from highly structured, compact folding to intrinsic disorder, where each degree of self-organization corresponds to specific functions: well-organized structural motifs in enzymes offer a proper environment for precisely positioned functional groups to participate in catalytic reactions; at the other end of the self-organization spectrum, intrinsically disordered proteins act as binding hubs via the formation of multiple, transient and often non-specific interactions. This review focusses on cases where structurally organized proteins or domains associate with highly disordered protein chains, leading to the formation of interfaces with varying degrees of fuzziness. We present a review of the computational methods developed to provide us with information on such fuzzy interfaces, and how they integrate experimental information. The discussion focusses on two specific cases, microtubules and homologous recombination nucleoprotein filaments, where a network of intrinsically disordered tails exerts regulatory function in recruiting partner macromolecules, proteins or DNA and tuning the atomic level association. Notably, we show how computational approaches such as molecular dynamics simulations can bring new knowledge to help bridging the gap between experimental analysis, that mostly concerns ensemble properties, and the behavior of individual disordered protein chains that contribute to regulation functions. Full article
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16 pages, 4012 KiB  
Article
Pharmacological Inhibition of the VCP/Proteasome Axis Rescues Photoreceptor Degeneration in RHOP23H Rat Retinal Explants
by Merve Sen, Oksana Kutsyr, Bowen Cao, Sylvia Bolz, Blanca Arango-Gonzalez and Marius Ueffing
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1528; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101528 - 16 Oct 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2271
Abstract
Rhodopsin (RHO) misfolding mutations are a common cause of the blinding disease autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP). The most prevalent mutation, RHOP23H, results in its misfolding and retention in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Under homeostatic conditions, misfolded proteins are [...] Read more.
Rhodopsin (RHO) misfolding mutations are a common cause of the blinding disease autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP). The most prevalent mutation, RHOP23H, results in its misfolding and retention in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Under homeostatic conditions, misfolded proteins are selectively identified, retained at the ER, and cleared via ER-associated degradation (ERAD). Overload of these degradation processes for a prolonged period leads to imbalanced proteostasis and may eventually result in cell death. ERAD of misfolded proteins, such as RHOP23H, includes the subsequent steps of protein recognition, targeting for ERAD, retrotranslocation, and proteasomal degradation. In the present study, we investigated and compared pharmacological modulation of ERAD at these four different major steps. We show that inhibition of the VCP/proteasome activity favors cell survival and suppresses P23H-mediated retinal degeneration in RHOP23H rat retinal explants. We suggest targeting this activity as a therapeutic approach for patients with currently untreatable adRP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ocular Diseases and Therapeutics)
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2 pages, 153 KiB  
Editorial
Integrative Multi-Omics in Biomedical Research
by Michelle M. Hill and Christopher Gerner
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1527; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101527 - 16 Oct 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1411
Abstract
Genome technologies have revolutionized biomedicine, but the complexity of biological systems cannot be explained by genomics alone [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrative Multi-Omics in Biomedical Research)
15 pages, 3436 KiB  
Article
Application of CRISPR/Cas9 Tools for Genome Editing in the White-Rot Fungus Dichomitus squalens
by Joanna E. Kowalczyk, Shreya Saha and Miia R. Mäkelä
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1526; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101526 - 15 Oct 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3852
Abstract
Dichomitus squalens is an emerging reference species that can be used to investigate white-rot fungal plant biomass degradation, as it has flexible physiology to utilize different types of biomass as sources of carbon and energy. Recent comparative (post-) genomic studies on D. squalens [...] Read more.
Dichomitus squalens is an emerging reference species that can be used to investigate white-rot fungal plant biomass degradation, as it has flexible physiology to utilize different types of biomass as sources of carbon and energy. Recent comparative (post-) genomic studies on D. squalens resulted in an increasingly detailed knowledge of the genes and enzymes involved in the lignocellulose breakdown in this fungus and showed a complex transcriptional response in the presence of lignocellulose-derived compounds. To fully utilize this increasing amount of data, efficient and reliable genetic manipulation tools are needed, e.g., to characterize the function of certain proteins in vivo and facilitate the construction of strains with enhanced lignocellulolytic capabilities. However, precise genome alterations are often very difficult in wild-type basidiomycetes partially due to extremely low frequencies of homology directed recombination (HDR) and limited availability of selectable markers. To overcome these obstacles, we assessed various Cas9-single guide RNA (sgRNA) ribonucleoprotein (RNP) -based strategies for selectable homology and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) -based gene editing in D. squalens. We also showed an induction of HDR-based genetic modifications by using single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotides (ssODNs) in a basidiomycete fungus for the first time. This paper provides directions for the application of targeted CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing in D. squalens and other wild-type (basidiomycete) fungi. Full article
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28 pages, 2663 KiB  
Review
Alternative Pre-mRNA Splicing of the Mu Opioid Receptor Gene, OPRM1: Insight into Complex Mu Opioid Actions
by Shan Liu, Wen-Jia Kang, Anna Abrimian, Jin Xu, Luca Cartegni, Susruta Majumdar, Patrick Hesketh, Alex Bekker and Ying-Xian Pan
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1525; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101525 - 15 Oct 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3133
Abstract
Most opioid analgesics used clinically, including morphine and fentanyl, as well as the recreational drug heroin, act primarily through the mu opioid receptor, a class A Rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). The single-copy mu opioid receptor gene, OPRM1, undergoes extensive alternative splicing, [...] Read more.
Most opioid analgesics used clinically, including morphine and fentanyl, as well as the recreational drug heroin, act primarily through the mu opioid receptor, a class A Rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). The single-copy mu opioid receptor gene, OPRM1, undergoes extensive alternative splicing, creating multiple splice variants or isoforms via a variety of alternative splicing events. These OPRM1 splice variants can be categorized into three major types based on the receptor structure: (1) full-length 7 transmembrane (TM) C-terminal variants; (2) truncated 6TM variants; and (3) single TM variants. Increasing evidence suggests that these OPRM1 splice variants are pharmacologically important in mediating the distinct actions of various mu opioids. More importantly, the OPRM1 variants can be targeted for development of novel opioid analgesics that are potent against multiple types of pain, but devoid of many side-effects associated with traditional opiates. In this review, we provide an overview of OPRM1 alternative splicing and its functional relevance in opioid pharmacology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue GPCRs: Structure, Biology and Potential Applications)
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27 pages, 3534 KiB  
Review
Diversity in Sensing and Signaling of Bacterial Sensor Histidine Kinases
by Eiji Ishii and Yoko Eguchi
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1524; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101524 - 15 Oct 2021
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5319
Abstract
Two-component signal transduction systems (TCSs) are widely conserved in bacteria to respond to and adapt to the changing environment. Since TCSs are also involved in controlling the expression of virulence, biofilm formation, quorum sensing, and antimicrobial resistance in pathogens, they serve as candidates [...] Read more.
Two-component signal transduction systems (TCSs) are widely conserved in bacteria to respond to and adapt to the changing environment. Since TCSs are also involved in controlling the expression of virulence, biofilm formation, quorum sensing, and antimicrobial resistance in pathogens, they serve as candidates for novel drug targets. TCSs consist of a sensor histidine kinase (HK) and its cognate response regulator (RR). Upon perception of a signal, HKs autophosphorylate their conserved histidine residues, followed by phosphotransfer to their partner RRs. The phosphorylated RRs mostly function as transcriptional regulators and control the expression of genes necessary for stress response. HKs sense their specific signals not only in their extracytoplasmic sensor domain but also in their cytoplasmic and transmembrane domains. The signals are sensed either directly or indirectly via cofactors and accessory proteins. Accumulating evidence shows that a single HK can sense and respond to multiple signals in different domains. The underlying molecular mechanisms of how HK activity is controlled by these signals have been extensively studied both biochemically and structurally. In this article, we introduce the wide diversity of signal perception in different domains of HKs, together with their recently clarified structures and molecular mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Recent Advances in Protein Phosphorylation)
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18 pages, 3626 KiB  
Article
Apoptosis Quantification in Tissue: Development of a Semi-Automatic Protocol and Assessment of Critical Steps of Image Processing
by Juliette de Noiron, Marion Hoareau, Jessie Colin and Isabelle Guénal
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1523; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101523 - 15 Oct 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2714
Abstract
Apoptosis is associated with numerous phenotypical characteristics, and is thus studied with many tools. In this study, we compared two broadly used apoptotic assays: TUNEL and staining with an antibody targeting the activated form of an effector caspase. To compare them, we developed [...] Read more.
Apoptosis is associated with numerous phenotypical characteristics, and is thus studied with many tools. In this study, we compared two broadly used apoptotic assays: TUNEL and staining with an antibody targeting the activated form of an effector caspase. To compare them, we developed a protocol based on commonly used tools such as image filtering, z-projection, and thresholding. Even though it is commonly used in image-processing protocols, thresholding remains a recurring problem. Here, we analyzed the impact of processing parameters and readout choice on the accuracy of apoptotic signal quantification. Our results show that TUNEL is quite robust, even if image processing parameters may not always allow to detect subtle differences of the apoptotic rate. On the contrary, images from anti-cleaved caspase staining are more sensitive to handle and necessitate being processed more carefully. We then developed an open-source Fiji macro automatizing most steps of the image processing and quantification protocol. It is noteworthy that the field of application of this macro is wider than apoptosis and it can be used to treat and quantify other kind of images. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Cell Death in France 2020-2021)
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20 pages, 3649 KiB  
Article
The Role of Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase in Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells Senescence under Anoxia or Reoxygenation
by Theodoros Eleftheriadis, Georgios Pissas, Georgios Filippidis, Vassilios Liakopoulos and Ioannis Stefanidis
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1522; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101522 - 15 Oct 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2183
Abstract
Ischemia-reperfusion injury is the commonest form of acute kidney injury (AKI). Tubular epithelial cell senescence contributes to incomplete recovery from AKI and predisposes to subsequent chronic kidney disease. In cultures of primary proximal renal tubular epithelial cells (RPTECs) subjected to anoxia or reoxygenation, [...] Read more.
Ischemia-reperfusion injury is the commonest form of acute kidney injury (AKI). Tubular epithelial cell senescence contributes to incomplete recovery from AKI and predisposes to subsequent chronic kidney disease. In cultures of primary proximal renal tubular epithelial cells (RPTECs) subjected to anoxia or reoxygenation, we evaluated the role of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO) in cellular senescence. Proteins of interest were assessed with Western blotting or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or histochemically. Under anoxia or reoxygenation, IDO expression and activity were increased. Moreover, the two IDO-derived pathways, the general control nonderepressible 2 kinase (GCN2K) pathway and the aryl-hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway, were also activated. A DNA damage response (DDR) took place and led to increased levels of the cell-cycle inhibitors p21 and p16, and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity. Cell proliferation was inhibited, and more IL-6 was produced. The IDO inhibitor 1-DL-methyl-tryptophan ameliorated the DDR; decreased p21, p16, and SA-β-Gal activity; restored cell proliferation; and decreased IL-6 production. The AhR inhibitor CH223191 did not affect the above parameters. In conclusion, anoxia and the subsequent reoxygenation upregulate IDO. IDO depletes tryptophan and activates GCN2K. The latter enhances the anoxia- or reoxygenation-induced DDR, resulting in increased p21 and p16 expression and eventually leading to RPTEC senescence. Since cellular senescence affects AKI outcome, the role of IDO in cellular senescence and the possible therapeutic role of IDO inhibitors deserve further investigation. Full article
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19 pages, 1360 KiB  
Review
Prevalence and Management of Alkyl-Methoxypyrazines in a Changing Climate: Viticultural and Oenological Considerations
by Gary J. Pickering, Jim Willwerth, Andreea Botezatu and Margaret Thibodeau
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1521; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101521 - 15 Oct 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2342
Abstract
Alkyl-methoxypyrazines are an important class of odor-active molecules that contribute green, ‘unripe’ characters to wine and are considered undesirable in most wine styles. They are naturally occurring grape metabolites in many cultivars, but can also be derived from some Coccinellidae species when these [...] Read more.
Alkyl-methoxypyrazines are an important class of odor-active molecules that contribute green, ‘unripe’ characters to wine and are considered undesirable in most wine styles. They are naturally occurring grape metabolites in many cultivars, but can also be derived from some Coccinellidae species when these ‘ladybugs’ are inadvertently introduced into the must during harvesting operations. The projected impacts of climate change are discussed, and we conclude that these include an altered alkyl-methoxypyrazine composition in grapes and wines in many wine regions. Thus, a careful consideration of how to manage them in both the vineyard and winery is important and timely. This review brings together the relevant literatures on viticultural and oenological interventions aimed at mitigating alkyl-methoxypyrazine loads, and makes recommendations on their management with an aim to maintaining wine quality under a changing and challenging climate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and Grape and Wine Biomolecules: Effect and Solutions)
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11 pages, 932 KiB  
Review
Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment—From Mechanisms to Cognitive Improvement
by Irit Gottfried, Nofar Schottlender and Uri Ashery
Biomolecules 2021, 11(10), 1520; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/biom11101520 - 15 Oct 2021
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 7094
Abstract
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT)—the medical use of oxygen at environmental pressure greater than one atmosphere absolute—is a very effective therapy for several approved clinical situations, such as carbon monoxide intoxication, incurable diabetes or radiation-injury wounds, and smoke inhalation. In recent years, it has [...] Read more.
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT)—the medical use of oxygen at environmental pressure greater than one atmosphere absolute—is a very effective therapy for several approved clinical situations, such as carbon monoxide intoxication, incurable diabetes or radiation-injury wounds, and smoke inhalation. In recent years, it has also been used to improve cognition, neuro-wellness, and quality of life following brain trauma and stroke. This opens new avenues for the elderly, including the treatment of neurological and neurodegenerative diseases and improvement of cognition and brain metabolism in cases of mild cognitive impairment. Alongside its integration into clinics, basic research studies have elucidated HBOT’s mechanisms of action and its effects on cellular processes, transcription factors, mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Therefore, HBOT is becoming a major player in 21st century research and clinical treatments. The following review will discuss the basic mechanisms of HBOT, and its effects on cellular processes, cognition, and brain disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oxygen Therapy)
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