scholarly journals Hidden pathway for cytokine receptor activation: Structural insights into a marine sponge-derived lectin that activates the thrombopoietin receptor via recognition of the fucose moiety

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hiromi Watari ◽  
Hiromu Kageyama ◽  
Nami Masubuchi ◽  
Hiroya Nakajima ◽  
Kako Onodera ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Marine Sponge ◽  
Myeloproliferative Neoplasms ◽  
Receptor Activation ◽  
Receptor Internalization ◽  
Activation Kinetics ◽  
Thrombopoietin Receptor ◽  
And Function ◽  
Receptor Dimers ◽  
Structural Insights ◽  
Insight Into

N-glycan-mediated activation of the thrombopoietin receptor (MPL) under pathological conditions has been implicated in myeloproliferative neoplasms induced by mutant calreticulin, which forms an endogenous receptor-agonist complex that constitutively activates the receptor. However, the molecular basis for this mechanism remains unstudied because no external agonist has been discovered. Here, we describe the structure and function of a marine sponge-derived MPL agonist, thrombocorticin (ThC). ThC-induced activation persists due to limited receptor internalization. Strong synergy between ThC and thrombopoietin suggests that ThC catalyzes the formation of receptor dimers on the cell surface. We show that MPL is subject to sugar-mediated activation and that lectin-mediated activation kinetics differ from cytokine-mediated activation kinetics. Our data demonstrated the potential of lectins to provide deeper insight into human pathogenesis.

scholarly journals Structural insights into the architecture and assembly of eukaryotic flagella

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (11) ◽  
pp. 289-299
Author(s):  
Narcis-Adrian Petriman ◽  
Esben Lorentzen
Keyword(s):  
Structure And Function ◽  
Eukaryotic Cells ◽  
Repetitive Nature ◽  
Unicellular Organisms ◽  
Cilia And Flagella ◽  
And Function ◽  
Signaling Components ◽  
Structural Insights ◽  
Insight Into

Cilia and flagella are slender projections found on most eukaryotic cells including unicellular organisms such as Chlamydomonas, Trypanosoma and Tetrahymena, where they serve motility and signaling functions. The cilium is a large molecular machine consisting of hundreds of different proteins that are trafficked into the organelle to organize a repetitive microtubule-based axoneme. Several recent studies took advantage of improved cryo-EM methodology to unravel the high-resolution structures of ciliary complexes. These include the recently reported purification and structure determination of axonemal doublet microtubules from the green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, which allows for the modeling of more than 30 associated protein factors to provide deep molecular insight into the architecture and repetitive nature of doublet microtubules. In addition, we will review several recent contributions that dissect the structure and function of ciliary trafficking complexes that ferry structural and signaling components between the cell body and the cilium organelle.

scholarly journals Calreticulin mutants as oncogenic rogue chaperones for TpoR and traffic-defective pathogenic TpoR mutants

Blood ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 133 (25) ◽  
pp. 2669-2681 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christian Pecquet ◽  
Ilyas Chachoua ◽  
Anita Roy ◽  
Thomas Balligand ◽  
Gaëlle Vertenoeil ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Cell Surface ◽  
Secretory Pathway ◽  
Myeloproliferative Neoplasms ◽  
Charged Amino Acids ◽  
Thrombopoietin Receptor ◽  
Surface Localization ◽  
Exon 9 ◽  
Cell Surface Localization ◽  
And Function ◽  
Positively Charged

Abstract Calreticulin (CALR) +1 frameshift mutations in exon 9 are prevalent in myeloproliferative neoplasms. Mutant CALRs possess a new C-terminal sequence rich in positively charged amino acids, leading to activation of the thrombopoietin receptor (TpoR/MPL). We show that the new sequence endows the mutant CALR with rogue chaperone activity, stabilizing a dimeric state and transporting TpoR and mutants thereof to the cell surface in states that would not pass quality control; this function is absolutely required for oncogenic transformation. Mutant CALRs determine traffic via the secretory pathway of partially immature TpoR, as they protect N117-linked glycans from further processing in the Golgi apparatus. A number of engineered or disease-associated TpoRs such as TpoR/MPL R102P, which causes congenital thrombocytopenia, are rescued for traffic and function by mutant CALRs, which can also overcome endoplasmic reticulum retention signals on TpoR. In addition to requiring N-glycosylation of TpoR, mutant CALRs require a hydrophobic patch located in the extracellular domain of TpoR to induce TpoR thermal stability and initial intracellular activation, whereas full activation requires cell surface localization of TpoR. Thus, mutant CALRs are rogue chaperones for TpoR and traffic-defective TpoR mutants, a function required for the oncogenic effects.

Rapid and reversible changes in dendrite morphology and synaptic efficacy following NMDA receptor activation: implication for a cellular defense against excitotoxicity

2001 ◽  
Vol 114 (22) ◽  
pp. 4083-4093
Author(s):  
Yuji Ikegaya ◽  
Jeong-Ah Kim ◽  
Minami Baba ◽  
Takeshi Iwatsubo ◽  
Nobuyoshi Nishiyama ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Nmda Receptor ◽  
Neuronal Death ◽  
Proteinase Inhibitors ◽  
Morphological Changes ◽  
Hippocampal Slices ◽  
Receptor Activation ◽  
Receptor Internalization ◽  
Dendrite Morphology ◽  
Ca1 Region ◽  
And Function

Postsynaptic neuronal dendrites undergo functional and morphological changes in response to pathologically excessive synaptic activation. Although rapid formation of segmental focal swelling (varicosity) is the most prominent hallmark in such excitotoxic injury, little is known about the pathophysiological function of these structural alterations. We used cultured rat hippocampal slices to evaluate the relationship between the formation of varicosities and subsequent neuronal death. Substantial numbers of segmental dendritic varicosities were observed all over the hippocampus within 5 minutes of exposure to 30 μM NMDA, although neuronal death was detected only in the CA1 region 24 hours after NMDA exposure. Sublethal NMDA concentrations (1-10 μM) induced reversible focal swelling in all hippocampal subregions. NMDA-induced neuronal death was prevented either by NMDA receptor antagonists or by the use of Ca2+-free medium, whereas varicosity formation was virtually independent of Ca2+ influx. Rather, the Ca2+-free conditions per se produced dendritic focal swelling. Also, NMDA-induced varicosity formation was dependent on extracellular Na+ concentration. Thus, we believe that varicosity formation is not causally related to neuronal injury and that the two phenomena are separable and involve distinct mechanisms. Interestingly, dendrite swelling was accompanied by AMPA receptor internalization and a rapid, long-lasting depression in synaptic transmission. Moreover, low Na+ conditions or treatment with ethacrynic acid or proteinase inhibitors, which effectively prevent varicosity formation, aggravated NMDA-induced excitotoxicity, and eliminated the regional specificity of the toxicity. Therefore, the pathological changes in dendrite morphology and function may be associated with an early, self-protective response against excitotoxicity.

scholarly journals Thrombopoietin receptor activation by myeloproliferative neoplasm associated calreticulin mutants

Blood ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 127 (10) ◽  
pp. 1325-1335 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ilyas Chachoua ◽  
Christian Pecquet ◽  
Mira El-Khoury ◽  
Harini Nivarthi ◽  
Roxana-Irina Albu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Binding Site ◽  
Myeloproliferative Neoplasms ◽  
Myeloproliferative Neoplasm ◽  
Receptor Activation ◽  
Thrombopoietin Receptor ◽  
Key Points

Key Points Calreticulin mutants responsible for myeloproliferative neoplasms specifically activate the thrombopoietin receptor and in turn JAK2. Activation of the thrombopoietin receptor requires the glycan binding site and a novel C-terminal tail of the mutant calreticulin.

Structure and function of neural networks in the retina

1988 ◽  
Vol 46 ◽  
pp. 26-27
Author(s):  
Peter Sterling
Keyword(s):  
Ganglion Cells ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Structure And Function ◽  
Synaptic Connections ◽  
Visual Axis ◽  
One Dimensional ◽  
Cat Retina ◽  
Ultrathin Sections ◽  
And Function ◽  
Insight Into

The synaptic connections in cat retina that link photoreceptors to ganglion cells have been analyzed quantitatively. Our approach has been to prepare serial, ultrathin sections and photograph en montage at low magnification (˜2000X) in the electron microscope. Six series, 100-300 sections long, have been prepared over the last decade. They derive from different cats but always from the same region of retina, about one degree from the center of the visual axis. The material has been analyzed by reconstructing adjacent neurons in each array and then identifying systematically the synaptic connections between arrays. Most reconstructions were done manually by tracing the outlines of processes in successive sections onto acetate sheets aligned on a cartoonist's jig. The tracings were then digitized, stacked by computer, and printed with the hidden lines removed. The results have provided rather than the usual one-dimensional account of pathways, a three-dimensional account of circuits. From this has emerged insight into the functional architecture.

Computational Approaches to Predict the Non-canonical DNAs

2019 ◽  
Vol 14 (6) ◽  
pp. 470-479 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nazia Parveen ◽  
Amen Shamim ◽  
Seunghee Cho ◽  
Kyeong Kyu Kim
Keyword(s):  
Computational Methods ◽  
Genetic Instability ◽  
Computational Prediction ◽  
Structure And Function ◽  
Sequence Motifs ◽  
Computational Approaches ◽  
Functional Roles ◽  
And Function ◽  
Genetic Events ◽  
Insight Into

Background: Although most nucleotides in the genome form canonical double-stranded B-DNA, many repeated sequences transiently present as non-canonical conformations (non-B DNA) such as triplexes, quadruplexes, Z-DNA, cruciforms, and slipped/hairpins. Those noncanonical DNAs (ncDNAs) are not only associated with many genetic events such as replication, transcription, and recombination, but are also related to the genetic instability that results in the predisposition to disease. Due to the crucial roles of ncDNAs in cellular and genetic functions, various computational methods have been implemented to predict sequence motifs that generate ncDNA. Objective: Here, we review strategies for the identification of ncDNA motifs across the whole genome, which is necessary for further understanding and investigation of the structure and function of ncDNAs. Conclusion: There is a great demand for computational prediction of non-canonical DNAs that play key functional roles in gene expression and genome biology. In this study, we review the currently available computational methods for predicting the non-canonical DNAs in the genome. Current studies not only provide an insight into the computational methods for predicting the secondary structures of DNA but also increase our understanding of the roles of non-canonical DNA in the genome.

scholarly journals Significance of Mast Cell Formed Extracellular Traps in Microbial Defense

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel Elieh Ali Komi ◽  
Wolfgang M. Kuebler
Keyword(s):  
State Of The Art ◽  
Extracellular Dna ◽  
Cellular Mechanisms ◽  
Extracellular Traps ◽  
Synthetic Chemicals ◽  
Dna Strands ◽  
Associated Proteins ◽  
Microbial Defense ◽  
And Function ◽  
Insight Into

AbstractMast cells (MCs) are critically involved in microbial defense by releasing antimicrobial peptides (such as cathelicidin LL-37 and defensins) and phagocytosis of microbes. In past years, it has become evident that in addition MCs may eliminate invading pathogens by ejection of web-like structures of DNA strands embedded with proteins known together as extracellular traps (ETs). Upon stimulation of resting MCs with various microorganisms, their products (including superantigens and toxins), or synthetic chemicals, MCs become activated and enter into a multistage process that includes disintegration of the nuclear membrane, release of chromatin into the cytoplasm, adhesion of cytoplasmic granules on the emerging DNA web, and ejection of the complex into the extracellular space. This so-called ETosis is often associated with cell death of the producing MC, and the type of stimulus potentially determines the ratio of surviving vs. killed MCs. Comparison of different microorganisms with specific elimination characteristics such as S pyogenes (eliminated by MCs only through extracellular mechanisms), S aureus (removed by phagocytosis), fungi, and parasites has revealed important aspects of MC extracellular trap (MCET) biology. Molecular studies identified that the formation of MCET depends on NADPH oxidase-generated reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this review, we summarize the present state-of-the-art on the biological relevance of MCETosis, and its underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms. We also provide an overview over the techniques used to study the structure and function of MCETs, including electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy using specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to detect MCET-associated proteins such as tryptase and histones, and cell-impermeant DNA dyes for labeling of extracellular DNA. Comparing the type and biofunction of further MCET decorating proteins with ETs produced by other immune cells may help provide a better insight into MCET biology in the pathogenesis of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders as well as microbial defense.

scholarly journals Changes in the structure and function of the human thrombin receptor during receptor activation, internalization, and recycling.

1994 ◽  
Vol 269 (4) ◽  
pp. 2943-2952
Author(s):  
L.F. Brass ◽  
S. Pizarro ◽  
M. Ahuja ◽  
E. Belmonte ◽  
N. Blanchard ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Receptor Activation ◽  
Structure And Function ◽  
Thrombin Receptor ◽  
Human Thrombin ◽  
And Function

scholarly journals (Pro)renin receptor: another member of the system controlled by angiotensin II?

2011 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-10 ◽  
Author(s):  
Luciana G Pereira ◽  
Carine P Arnoni ◽  
Edgar Maquigussa ◽  
Priscila C Cristovam ◽  
Juliana Dreyfuss ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Gene Expression ◽  
Angiotensin Ii ◽  
Mesangial Cells ◽  
At1 Receptor ◽  
Receptor Internalization ◽  
Prorenin Receptor ◽  
Receptor Blockers ◽  
And Function ◽  
At1 Receptor Blockers

The prorenin receptor [(P)RR] is upregulated in the diabetic kidney and has been implicated in the high glucose (HG)-induced overproduction of profibrotic molecules by mesangial cells (MCs), which is mediated by ERK1/2 phosphorylation. The regulation of (P)RR gene transcription and the mechanisms by which HG increases (P)RR gene expression are not fully understood. Because intracellular levels of angiotensin II (AngII) are increased in MCs stimulated with HG, we used this in vitro system to evaluate the possible role of AngII in (P)RR gene expression and function by comparing the effects of AT1 receptor blockers (losartan or candesartan) and (P)RR mRNA silencing (siRNA) in human MCs (HMCs) stimulated with HG. HG induced an increase in (P)RR and fibronectin expression and in ERK1/2 phosphorylation. These effects were completely reversed by (P)RR siRNA and losartan but not by candesartan (an angiotensin receptor blocker that, in contrast to losartan, blocks AT1 receptor internalization). These results suggest that (P)RR gene activity may be controlled by intracellular AngII and that HG-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation and fibronectin overproduction are primarily induced by (P)RR activation. This relationship between AngII and (P)RR may constitute an additional pathway of MC dysfunction in response to HG stimulation.

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