Article
Oncology
Shihao Guo, Jichang Li, Zhihao Huang, Taohua Yue, Jing Zhu, Xin Wang, Yucun Liu, Pengyuan Wang, Shanwen Chen
Summary: Knockdown of CBS inhibits metastasis and invasion of colon cancer cells, as well as angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. There is a positive correlation between CBS and VEGF expression in colon cancer tissues, indicating a positive feedback loop between the CBS-H2S axis and VEGF. Targeting this pathway could effectively intervene in liver metastasis of colon cancer.
BRITISH JOURNAL OF CANCER
(2022)
Article
Cell Biology
Giulia Pozzi, Giuliana Gobbi, Elena Masselli, Cecilia Carubbi, Valentina Presta, Luca Ambrosini, Marco Vitale, Prisco Mirandola
Summary: T cell-mediated adaptive immunity responds to non-self antigens and pathogens by activating and proliferating various T cell populations, with hydrogen sulfide playing a crucial regulatory role in this process.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Viktor Kozich, Bernd C. Schwahn, Jitka Sokolova, Michaela Krizkova, Tamas Ditroi, Jakub Krijt, Youssef Khalil, Tomas Krizek, Tereza Vaculikova-Fantlova, Blanka Stiburkova, Philippa Mills, Peter Clayton, Kristyna Barvikova, Holger Blessing, Jolanta Sykut-Cegielska, Carlo Dionisi-Vici, Serena Gasperini, Angeles Garcia-Cazorla, Tobias B. Haack, Tomas Honzik, Pavel Jesina, Alice Kuster, Lucia Laugwitz, Diego Martinelli, Francesco Porta, Rene Santer, Guenter Schwarz, Peter Nagy
Summary: Regulation of H2S homeostasis in humans is not well understood. By studying patients with genetic defects, the importance of certain enzymes in H2S synthesis and catabolism was assessed. The findings suggest the presence of control and compensatory mechanisms in the maintenance of H2S homeostasis.
Article
Plant Sciences
Rosario Pantaleno, Denise Scuffi, Alex Costa, Elina Welchen, Roberta Torregrossa, Matthew Whiteman, Carlos Garcia-Mata
Summary: Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a gaseous signaling molecule that plays a role in physiological processes in plants, including regulating stomatal pore width. In this study, it was found that a mitochondrial-targeted H2S donor called AP39 can induce stomatal closure in a dose-dependent manner. The activity of mitochondrial cytochrome c (CYTc) and/or complex IV was shown to be necessary for AP39-dependent stomatal closure. AP39 also affected the mitochondrial inner potential, cytosolic ATP, hydrogen peroxide levels, and the oxidation of the glutathione pool in guard cells. These findings highlight the interplay between mitochondrial H2S, mitochondrial activity, and stomatal closure.
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Xiaotong Zhao, Dawei Ma, Guoyuan Ju, Bo Gui, Zhangyu Yao, Jia Zhang, Yanbin Zhao, Fangzhou Liu, Xiao Zhang
Summary: This study reveals a new mechanism of cisplatin resistance related to energy metabolism, showing enhanced synthesis of key enzymes, particularly cytochrome oxidase (CCO), in drug-resistant cancer cells. Inhibiting CCO activity can reverse drug resistance in cancer cells.
JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL NANOTECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Dalila G. F. Fernandes, Joao Nunes, Catarina S. Tome, Karim Zuhra, Joao M. F. Costa, Alexandra M. M. Antunes, Alessandro Giuffre, Joao B. Vicente
Summary: Gasotransmitters hydrogen sulfide, nitric oxide, and carbon monoxide play critical roles in human physiology by mediating signal transduction through interaction with protein targets. Research shows that S-nitrosation can inhibit hydrogen sulfide production through affecting various protein cysteine residues, highlighting a new mechanism of crosstalk between gasotransmitters.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Yuto Suzuki, Kazuaki Taguchi, Wataru Okamoto, Yuki Enoki, Teruyuki Komatsu, Kazuaki Matsumoto
Summary: In this study, methemoglobin-albumin clusters were developed as detoxifying agents for hydrogen sulfide (H2S) intoxication. These clusters have the ability to bind with H2S, thereby suppressing cell death and maintaining mitochondrial function. The results demonstrate that methemoglobin-albumin clusters possess suitable pharmacokinetic properties and biocompatibility for use as detoxifying agents against H2S intoxication.
JOURNAL OF CONTROLLED RELEASE
(2022)
Article
Biology
Keri E. Martin, Suzanne Currie, Nicolas Pichaud
Summary: The study reveals that different genetic lineages of mangrove rivulus have distinct physiological strategies in coping with elevated H2S, indicating possible genetic and/or functional adaptations to sulphidic environments at the mitochondrial level.
JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Luke E. Formosa, Shadi Maghool, Alice J. Sharpe, Boris Reljic, Linden Muellner-Wong, David A. Stroud, Michael T. Ryan, Megan J. Maher
Summary: COA7 is a crucial assembly factor for the biogenesis of mitochondrial complex IV. It interacts with SCO1 and SCO2 to catalyze copper relay and reduction of disulfide bonds, which are important for complex IV assembly.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Joanna Myszkowska, Ilia Derevenkov, Sergei V. Makarov, Ute Spiekerkoetter, Luciana Hannibal
Summary: Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) plays important roles in human health, with its disease-promoting effects depending on concentration and compartmentalization. There is substantial discrepancy in H2S concentrations determined by different techniques, with no definitive protocol for continuous, real-time measurement.
Article
Microbiology
Mauro Degli Esposti, Ana Moya-Beltran, Raquel Quatrini, Lars Hederstedt
Summary: Respiration is a major trait shaping the biology of many environments. Through studying iron-oxidizing bacteria, it is suggested that they may have been among the first to evolve COX, thus promoting the evolution of aerobic respiration.
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Rong-Hsuan Wang, Yu-Hsin Chu, Kai-Ti Lin
Summary: Hydrogen sulfide, while important for physiological functions, is also associated with aberrant expression in cancer development; understanding the roles of tumor-derived H2S in cancer provides opportunities for targeted therapy.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Libing Yu, Wenjing Li, Jian Chu, Chun Chen, Xijian Li, Wei Tang, Binyuan Xia, Zhonghua Xiong
Summary: Uranium as an emerging pollutant presents serious threats to ecological and human health, with the kidney identified as a major deposition site and sensitive target organ for its toxicity, which is associated with oxidative stress and mitochondrial respiration. This study found that cytochrome c oxidase and ATP synthase play key roles in uranium-induced toxicity by inhibiting their activities in the mitochondrial respiration pathway. These inhibitory effects could explain the generation of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial alterations observed in uranium poisoning.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Vitaliy B. Borisov, Elena Forte
Summary: Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has biphasic effects on the bioenergetic molecular machines in mitochondria and bacteria, either enhancing or inhibiting cellular functions; H2S acts as a signaling molecule that plays critical roles in physiology and pathophysiology through its interactions with protein complexes and enzymes.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Elise D. Rivett, Lim Heo, Michael Feig, Eric L. Hegg
Summary: The passage discusses the key step of heme synthesis in aerobic respiration, focusing on the newly gained insights from structural studies on heme o synthase (HOS) and heme a synthase (HAS). It highlights the proposed catalytic mechanisms and the implications of the new structural data for understanding heme trafficking and heme-copper oxidase assembly in the broader context of the heme a biosynthetic pathway.
CRITICAL REVIEWS IN BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Vitaliy B. Borisov, Sergey A. Siletsky, Alessandro Paiardini, David Hoogewijs, Elena Forte, Alessandro Giuffre, Robert K. Poole
Summary: Cytochrome bd is an important ubiquinol:oxygen oxidoreductase found in many prokaryotic respiratory chains, playing a crucial role in generating a proton motive force for ATP production by reducing molecular oxygen to water. Recent advancements have shed light on its structure, biochemistry, and roles in protecting bacteria against various stressors. Future research should focus on utilizing its unique properties for developing novel antibacterial agents.
ANTIOXIDANTS & REDOX SIGNALING
(2021)
Review
Oncology
Vasco D. B. Bonifacio, Sofia A. Pereira, Jacinta Serpa, Joao B. Vicente
Summary: Cysteine plays a crucial role in cancer metabolic remodeling by contributing to redox control, cellular bioenergetics stimulation, and epigenetic regulation. Understanding the importance of cysteine in cancer biology, its potential as prognostic cancer markers, and targeting cysteine metabolism for cancer treatment will be discussed in this review.
BRITISH JOURNAL OF CANCER
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Livia Pagano, Angelo Toto, Francesca Malagrino, Lorenzo Visconti, Per Jemth, Stefano Gianni
Summary: This article introduces a quantitative measurement method for intramolecular and intermolecular interactions in protein structure, focusing on the principles, applications, and considerations of double-mutant cycles analysis. Double mutant cycles can be a powerful tool to investigate allosteric mechanisms in protein binding reactions as well as elusive states in protein folding pathways.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Karim Zuhra, Catarina S. Tome, Elena Forte, Joao B. Vicente, Alessandro Giuffre
Summary: Sulfane sulfur species, which include various biologically relevant compounds and proteins, play a significant role in cancer biology by modulating cell bioenergetics and contributing to metabolic reprogramming. They achieve this by binding to target proteins or sulfidating specific cysteine residues, thereby regulating cellular functions and exhibiting anti-tumoral properties.
BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Hana Pavlu-Pereira, Diana Lousa, Catarina S. Tome, Cristina Florindo, Maria Joao Silva, Isabel Tavares de Almeida, Paula Leandro, Isabel Rivera, Joao B. Vicente
Summary: Pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) deficiency is a metabolic disorder with a wide range of symptoms, mainly caused by mutations affecting the PDHA1 gene encoding the a subunit of the PDC-E1 component. Detailed analysis of pathogenic protein variants shows functional impairment and decreased stability, posing challenges for developing therapies.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Lorenzo Visconti, Francesca Malagrino, Francesca Troilo, Livia Pagano, Angelo Toto, Stefano Gianni
Summary: This study elucidates the folding and unfolding mechanisms of the multi-domain protein Whirlin, focusing on the PDZ1 and PDZ2 domains. The difference in thermodynamic stability of these domains leads to the accumulation of a misfolded intermediate. The experimental and analytical approaches presented in this study offer valuable insights for understanding complex multi-domain protein folding kinetics.
JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Dalila G. F. Fernandes, Joao Nunes, Catarina S. Tome, Karim Zuhra, Joao M. F. Costa, Alexandra M. M. Antunes, Alessandro Giuffre, Joao B. Vicente
Summary: Gasotransmitters hydrogen sulfide, nitric oxide, and carbon monoxide play critical roles in human physiology by mediating signal transduction through interaction with protein targets. Research shows that S-nitrosation can inhibit hydrogen sulfide production through affecting various protein cysteine residues, highlighting a new mechanism of crosstalk between gasotransmitters.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Francesca Malagrino, Awa Diop, Livia Pagano, Caterina Nardella, Angelo Toto, Stefano Gianni
Summary: This article focuses on the mechanisms of induced folding in intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) upon binding to physiological ligands. The article first describes the general features of the reaction, then discusses some of the most remarkable findings obtained from protein engineering and kinetic studies, and finally offers a critical view on the relationship between structural heterogeneity and inherent frustration in IDPs.
CURRENT OPINION IN STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Maria Joao Correia, Antonio B. Pimpao, Dalila G. F. Fernandes, Judit Morello, Catarina O. Sequeira, Joaquim Calado, Alexandra M. M. Antunes, Manuel S. Almeida, Patricia Branco, Emilia C. Monteiro, Joao B. Vicente, Jacinta Serpa, Sofia A. Pereira
Summary: This review presents in vivo evidence showing that the kidney is rich in cysteine compared to the liver or brain. The study highlights the various forms and importance of cysteine in renal metabolism, providing insights into kidney function, blood pressure regulation, and potential clinical applications in precision medicine.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Caterina Nardella, Francesca Malagrino, Livia Pagano, Serena Rinaldo, Stefano Gianni, Angelo Toto
Summary: SH2 domains are protein-protein interaction modules that recognize and bind phosphorylated tyrosine sequences. SHP2, a protein phosphatase, interacts with various partners through its SH2 domains, such as N-SH2 and C-SH2. The interaction between SH2 domains and ligands involves electrostatic interactions, with a conserved histidine residue playing a key role.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Francesca Malagrino, Valeria Pennacchietti, Daniele Santorelli, Livia Pagano, Caterina Nardella, Awa Diop, Angelo Toto, Stefano Gianni
Summary: The majority of our knowledge about protein properties comes from in vitro studies on isolated globular domains, but many proteins in eukaryotic cells have more complex structures. The discovery of intrinsic disorder in up to 40% of eukaryotic proteins has revolutionized our understanding of protein structure and function. In addition, proteins often have multiple domains that interact with each other, and they function within a crowded intracellular environment. This review highlights the importance of considering these factors in studying protein folding and function.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Caterina Nardella, Angelo Toto, Daniele Santorelli, Livia Pagano, Awa Diop, Valeria Pennacchietti, Paola Pietrangeli, Lucia Marcocci, Francesca Malagrino, Stefano Gianni
Summary: This study analyzed the folding pathway of Crkl-SH2 and its binding reaction with a peptide mimicking Paxillin under different ionic strength and pH conditions. Experimental results demonstrated the presence of an intermediate in the folding process and highlighted the importance of electrostatic interactions in the early event of recognition. Furthermore, a highly conserved histidine residue was found to play a pivotal role in stabilizing the binding complex.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Jorge Frias, Duarte Toubarro, Gro Elin Kjaereng Bjerga, Pal Puntervoll, Joao B. Vicente, Rui L. Reis, Nelson Simoes
Summary: This study successfully expressed a potentially insecticidal ShK-like peptide, which exhibited toxic effects on insects and significantly reduced their locomotor activity in a Drosophila model after oral administration.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Awa Diop, Daniele Santorelli, Francesca Malagrino, Caterina Nardella, Valeria Pennacchietti, Livia Pagano, Lucia Marcocci, Paola Pietrangeli, Stefano Gianni, Angelo Toto
Summary: This review summarizes the latest research on the structure, function, pathogenic role, and regulation of SH2 domains. The findings suggest that pharmacological interest in SH2 domains and a deeper understanding of their binding properties are crucial.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Paula Leandro, Paulo R. Lino, Raquel Lopes, Joao Leandro, Mariana P. Amaro, Paulo Sousa, Joao B. Vicente, Antonio J. Almeida
Summary: The structural maintenance of therapeutic proteins during formulation and/or storage is crucial. Protein freeze-drying is a commonly used technique for preserving protein structure and function. In this study, differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) and isothermal denaturation fluorimetry (ITDF) were used to screen for the most effective stabilizer for the model protein human phenylalanine hydroxylase (hPAH) among different freeze-drying additives. ITDF was found to be the most suitable screening method based on correlation studies with recovered enzyme amount and activity. The selected compounds prevented protein aggregation and preserved hPAH structural and functional properties throughout long-term storage.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS AND BIOPHARMACEUTICS
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Brandon P. Russell, David J. Vinyard
Summary: The Mn4CaO5 oxygen-evolving complex in Photosystem II is crucial for water oxidation. D1 residue R334 participates in proton release and interacts with PsbO. A D1-R334G mutant destabilizes the OEC but stabilizes the S2 intermediate.
BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Alexander A. Bulychev, Tatiana S. Strelets
Summary: Excitable cells of higher plants and characean algae respond to stressful stimuli by generating action potentials that influence chlorophyll fluorescence and photosynthesis for an extended period of time. While plant leaves exhibit a reversible depression in the efficiency of photosystem II reaction after an individual action potential, characean algae show long-lasting oscillations of photosystem II reaction efficiency after firing an action potential. This study investigates the possible mechanisms behind these oscillations and suggests that they are a result of metabolic rearrangements in chloroplasts and the cyclosis cessation-recovery cycle induced by calcium influx during action potentials. The findings also indicate that fluidic communications between different cell regions play a role in these oscillations, and the inhibition of oscillations occurs when these communications are restricted or eliminated.
BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Dmitry Zlenko, Elena A. Protasova, Georgy Tsoraev, Nikolai N. Sluchanko, Dmitry A. Cherepanov, Thomas Friedrich, Baosheng Ge, Song Qin, Eugene G. Maksimov, Andrew B. Rubin
Summary: The conformation of chromophores in isolated phycobiliproteins is heterogeneous, but not in the entire phycobilisome (PBS). Under low-energy excitation, there is no significant uphill energy transfer from the core to the peripheral rods of the PBS, while transfer from the terminal emitters to bulk allophycocyanin chromophores is highly probable.
BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Makio Yokono, Chiyo Noda, Jun Minagawa
Summary: This paper investigates the energy transfer between Photosystem II and Photosystem I in Arabidopsis thaliana, and finds that the fast spillover is reversibly regulated depending on pH.
BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS
(2024)