Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Eva Schmidt, Chamali Narangoda, Wolfgang Norenberg, Miyuki Egawa, Anna Rossig, Marion Leonhardt, Michael Schaefer, Susanna Zierler, Maria G. Kurnikova, Thomas Gudermann, Vladimir Chubanov
Summary: The study identifies a regulatory site in the TRPM7 channel where intracellular Mg2+ binds to control the channel activity. This reveals a new structure-function relationship in TRPM7 channels.
CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR LIFE SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Leo C. T. Ng, Brandon J. Harris, Megan Larmore, My C. Ta, Thuy N. Vien, Valerie L. Tokars, Vladimir Yarov-Yarovoy, Paul G. DeCaen
Summary: In this study, computational prediction tools were used to model missing PKD2L1 structural motifs and evaluate over 150 mutations in the entire pore module. Results revealed an energetic landscape of the polycystin pore and identified critical structural regulators controlling the conductive and nonconductive states of the polycystin ion channel.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Gregorio Fernandez-Ballester, Asia Fernandez-Carvajal, Antonio Ferrer-Montiel
Summary: The thermoTRP family of ion channels, which includes multiple nonselective cation channels, are activated by physical and chemical stimuli, functioning as polymodal receptors. These channels undergo gating through changes in temperature, osmolarity, voltage, pH, pressure, and by chemical compounds that bind to the proteins. Recent advances in cryo-electron microscopy techniques have provided high-resolution structures of these channels in different states, shedding light on the underlying allosteric gating mechanisms. Understanding these mechanisms is important for the development of drug-based therapies for diseases involving dysfunctional thermoTRP channels, such as chronic pain.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Grigory Maksaev, Michael Bruendl-Jirout, Anna Stary-Weinzinger, Eva-Maria Zangerl-Plessl, Sun-Joo Lee, Colin G. Nichols
Summary: The authors introduced negative charges in Kir2.2 channels, resulting in pH-dependent sub-conductances. Molecular dynamics simulations show that protonation leads to step-wise alterations of ion pooling and conductance, appearing as gated substates. Single-channel recordings reveal pH-dependent subconductance behaviors.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Charlotte Van den Eynde, Joris Vriens, Katrien De Clercq
Summary: Calcium ions play a critical role in cell function, with transient receptor potential (TRP) channels serving as a type of ion channel that can convey various stimuli and potentially participate in cellular responses to changing environments.
BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Balazs Kelemen, Silvia Pinto, Nawoo Kim, Erika Lisztes, Martin Hanyicska, Anita Vladar, Attila Olah, Zsofia Penzes, Brian Shu, Joris Vriens, Tamas Biro, Tibor Rohacs, Thomas Voets, Balazs Istvan Toth
Summary: TRPM3 selectively mediates pain sensation but not itch sensation, making it a promising candidate for selectively targeting pain sensation.
BIOCHEMICAL PHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biology
Shashank Pant, Jiaren Zhang, Eung Chang Kim, Kin Lam, Hee Jung Chung, Emad Tajkhorshid
Summary: Research using molecular dynamics simulations and electrophysiology has revealed the allosteric role of phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) in the activation of K(v)7.2 channels, influencing protein conformation and correlated motions.
COMMUNICATIONS BIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Maria del Rocio Cantero, Horacio F. Cantiello
Summary: PC2, the product of the PKD2 gene, is involved in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease. It functions as a calcium-permeable nonselective cation channel in the plasma membrane, an intracellular calcium release channel in the endoplasmic reticulum, and a mechanosensitive channel in the primary cilium of renal epithelial cells. Other transmembrane and cytosolic proteins modulate the activity of PC2, providing functional diversity and selective regulatory mechanisms.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Mayra Delgado-Ramirez, Ana Laura Lopez-Serrano, Sergio Sanchez-Armass, Ulises Meza, Aldo A. Rodriguez-Menchaca
Summary: The activity of neuronal Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels is regulated by both PIP2 and cholesterol. Cholesterol depletion enhances the interaction between Kv7.2/Kv7.3 channels and PIP2, while acute membrane cholesterol depletion does not affect the sensitivity of mutant channels with different affinities for PIP2.
BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Leandro M. Alonso, Mara C. P. Rue, Eve Marder
Summary: Neurons use intracellular calcium concentrations to regulate their excitability, and models with multiple sensors can distinguish different activity patterns. However, previous models with multiple sensors displayed instabilities leading to unbounded growth of conductances. By introducing a nonlinear degradation term, we prevent conductances from growing beyond a certain bound. The modified model can recover from perturbations and shows that caution must be exercised in interpreting manipulations that mimic increased neuronal activity.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Jiayue Zhang, Yikui Gao, Di Liu, Jing-Shan Zhao, Jie Wang
Summary: This study investigates the three discharge domains in DC triboelectric nanogenerators and develops a model to explain the relationship between ideal conditions and real outputs, resulting in an increase in output power.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Jun-Ma Yu, Rui Hu, Yu Mao, Yingju Tai, Sen Qun, Zhi Zhang, Danyang Chen, Yan Jin
Summary: In this study, it was identified that enhanced activity of the VPLGlu -> S1HL(Glu) neural circuit drives allodynia in mouse models of chronic pain, but optogenetic inhibition of this circuit can reverse allodynia. The expression and function of HCN2 channels in VPLGlu neurons were found to be increased under conditions of chronic pain, and downregulation of these channels alleviated allodynia in mice with chronic pain. Dysfunction in HCN2 channels and their upregulation play essential roles in the development of chronic pain.
NATIONAL SCIENCE REVIEW
(2023)
Article
Biology
Cheon-Gyu Park, Wookyung Yu, Byung-Chang Suh
Summary: This study found that Ca-v beta subunits regulate the biophysical states of Ca-v 2.2 channels by modulating the interaction with different PIP2 binding sites.
Article
Biology
Theres Friesacher, Haritha P. Reddy, Harald Bernsteiner, J. Carlo Combista, Boris Shalomov, Amal K. Bera, Eva-Maria Zangerl-Plessl, Nathan Dascal, Anna Stary-Weinzinger
Summary: This study investigates the impact of a selectivity filter mutation on the structure and function of GIRK2 channels through molecular dynamics simulations and electrophysiological experiments. It reveals an allosteric connection between the selectivity filter and a crucial activator binding site, providing insights into the mechanism of neurological disorders.
COMMUNICATIONS BIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Masayuki X. Mori, Ryo Okada, Reiko Sakaguchi, Hideharu Hase, Yuko Imai, Onur K. Polat, Satoru G. Itoh, Hisashi Okumura, Yasuo Mori, Yasushi Okamura, Ryuji Inoue
Summary: This study identified the crucial positions for PIP2 binding in TRPC6 channels through mutagenesis screening, and found that Arg437 and Lys442 in the pre-S1 domain/shoulder play a crucial role in interacting with PIP2. Computer simulations provided structural insights, showing that basic residues in the pre-S1 domain/shoulder are key regulators for PIP2-dependent gating.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ziqian Zhao, Mingfei Pan, Chenyu Qiao, Li Xiang, Xiong Liu, Wenshuai Yang, Xing-Zhen Chen, Hongbo Zeng
Summary: A zwitterion-conjugated protein with a special structure was engineered for surface coating and antifouling applications. It can achieve easy and surface-independent coating on various substrates, exhibiting superior resistance to biofouling for a broad spectrum of species. This work provides an innovative method for using native proteins in bioengineering applications.
ADVANCED MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Neurosciences
Xiong Liu, Rui Zhang, Mohammad Fatehi, Yifang Wang, Wentong Long, Rui Tian, Xiaoling Deng, Ziyi Weng, Qinyi Xu, Peter E. Light, Jingfeng Tang, Xing-Zhen Chen
Summary: This study reveals that TACAN acts as an inhibitor of PKD2 and mediates the mechanosensitivity of the PKD2-TACAN channel complex. This finding is important for understanding the pathogenesis of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.
JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY-LONDON
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Xuwen Peng, Qian Peng, Meng Wu, Wenda Wang, Yongfeng Gao, Xiong Liu, Yongxiang Sun, Diling Yang, Qiongyao Peng, Tao Wang, Xing-Zhen Chen, Jifang Liu, Hao Zhang, Hongbo Zeng
Summary: A pH and temperature dual-responsive microgel-embedded hydrogel with excellent mechanical properties and antimicrobial properties has been fabricated for potential applications as smart wound dressing materials.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2023)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Chengbao Xu, Tao Xia, Hao Peng, Peng Liu, Yihong Wang, Yanting Wang, Heng Kang, Jingfeng Tang, Muhammad Nauman Aftab, Liangcai Peng
Summary: In this study, the BsEXLE1 gene was overexpressed in T. reesei to create the TrEXLX10 strain, which showed increased activities of beta-glucosidases, cellobiohydrolases, and xylanses compared to the Rut-C30 strain. The enzymes secreted by TrEXLX10 resulted in higher yields of hexoses in biomass saccharification experiments. Furthermore, the study identified the potential of expansin, purified from the TrEXLX10 secreted solution, to enhance cellulose hydrolysis independently.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jingyuan Liu, Xin Zhang, Hao Peng, Tianqi Li, Peng Liu, Hairong Gao, Yanting Wang, Jingfeng Tang, Qiang Li, Zhi Qi, Liangcai Peng, Tao Xia
Summary: This study investigates the use of liquid-hot-water pretreatment with FeCl3 for enhanced enzymatic saccharification of corn stalks and the use of lignocellulose residues as biosorbents for Cd adsorption. Through incubating Trichoderma reesei with corn stalks and FeCl3, increased enzyme activities were observed. The undigested lignocellulose residues were then carbonized with FeCl3, producing highly porous carbon for supercapacitors. Overall, FeCl3 was found to be a versatile catalyst for enhancing the conversion of lignocellulosic substrates.
Review
Cell Biology
Mengyu Hu, Rui Zhang, Jiaren Yang, Chenshu Zhao, Wei Liu, Yuan Huang, Hao Lyu, Shuai Xiao, Dong Guo, Cefan Zhou, Jingfeng Tang
Summary: N-glycosylation is a common protein modification that plays a vital role in physiological processes, but abnormal N-glycan modifications are closely linked to various diseases, including malignancy and tumor progression. Understanding the heterogeneity and biological functions of glycans in liver cancer patients can enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of liver injury and hepatocarcinogenesis.
CELL DEATH & DISEASE
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Ran Zhang, Zhen Hu, Yanting Wang, Huizhen Hu, Fengcheng Li, Mi Li, Arthur Ragauskas, Tao Xia, Heyou Han, Jingfeng Tang, Haizhong Yu, Bingqian Xu, Liangcai Peng
Summary: This study reveals the key characteristics of lignocellulose and proposes an engineering target to increase its saccharification ability. By investigating the assembly and conversion processes of cellulose nanofibers, it uncovers the digestibility and convertibility of plant cellulose substrates, providing a strategy for the development of cost-effective biofuels and high-quality bioproducts.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Editorial Material
Cell Biology
Rui Zhang, Vincenzo Torraca, Hao Lyu, Shuai Xiao, Dong Guo, Cefan Zhou, Jingfeng Tang
Summary: RUNDC1 acts as a negative regulator of autophagy by inhibiting the fusion between autophagosomes and lysosomes, and its role is crucial for zebrafish survival under nutrient-deficient conditions.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Barbara Wardas, Jochen G. Schneider, Norbert Klugbauer, Veit Flockerzi, Andreas Beck
Summary: Englerin A (EA) is a potent agonist that blocks the functions of CaV1.2 and T-type CaV channels. This study is significant for understanding the mechanism of action of EA and its potential in breakthrough cancer treatment.
MOLECULAR PHARMACOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Xuewen Zhang, Nianping Wu, Huili Huang, Shi Li, Shicheng Liu, Rui Zhang, Yuan Huang, Hao Lyu, Shuai Xiao, Declan William Ali, Marek Michalak, Xing-Zhen Chen, Cefan Zhou, Jingfeng Tang
Summary: PTTG1 is a bona fide β-catenin binding protein that positively regulates Wnt/β-catenin signaling by inhibiting the destruction complex assembly and promoting β-catenin stabilization and nuclear localization. PTTG1's subcellular distribution is regulated by its phosphorylation status. It is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and associated with poor patient prognosis, as it promotes the proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Marcel S. Woo, Friederike Ufer, Jana K. Sonner, Anouar Belkacemi, Joseph Tintelnot, Pablo J. Saez, Paula F. Krieg, Christina Mayer, Lars Binkle-Ladisch, Jan Broder Engler, Simone Bauer, Nina Kursawe, Vanessa Vieira, Stefanie Mannebach, Marc Freichel, Veit Flockerzi, Pablo Vargas, Manuel A. Friese
Summary: The study identifies CACNB3 as a master regulator of ATP-dependent migDC migration, which plays a crucial role in regulating tissue-specific immune responses during injury and inflammation.
Article
Cell Biology
Megan R. Beggs, Kennedi Young, Allen Plain, Debbie D. O'Neill, Ahsan Raza, Veit Flockerzi, Henrik Dimke, R. Todd Alexander
Summary: We found that intestinal permeability to calcium is higher in suckling animals due to increased expression of claudin-2, a calcium channel protein, which is stimulated by epidermal growth factor (EGF) in breast milk. Loss of the claudin-2 pathway leads to decreased bone mineralization in 2-week-old mice.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Cefan Zhou, Xiaoting Zhu, Nanxi Liu, Xueying Dong, Xuewen Zhang, Huili Huang, Yu Tang, Shicheng Liu, Mengyu Hu, Ming Wang, Xiaoling Deng, Shi Li, Rui Zhang, Yuan Huang, Hao Lyu, Shuai Xiao, Sang Luo, Declan William Ali, Marek Michalak, Xing-Zhen Chen, Zhentian Wang, Jingfeng Tang
Summary: FAM83A binds to β-catenin and inhibits the assembly of the destruction complex, thus preventing its phosphorylation and degradation. Abnormal activation of FAM83A is closely associated with the malignancy of pancreatic cancer.
SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION AND TARGETED THERAPY
(2023)
Letter
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Caroline Diener, Martin Hart, Claudia Fecher-Trost, Jessica Knittel, Stefanie Rheinheimer, Markus R. Meyer, Jens Mayer, Veit Flockerzi, Andreas Keller, Eckart Meese
Summary: One widely accepted concept in biology is the potentiated cooperative effect of multiple miRNAs on the same target, despite insufficient experimental evidence. The quantity and quality of required side constraints of cooperative binding remain largely unknown. In this study, we selected 15 joint target genes, representing various 3'UTR binding site constellations, and found different cooperative scenarios between miR-21-5p and miR-155-5p. Surprisingly, our experiments provided stronger evidence for cooperative miRNA effects than originally postulated, highlighting the need to refine the definition of targetomes specified for single miRNAs to account for their cooperative effects.
CELLULAR & MOLECULAR BIOLOGY LETTERS
(2023)
Article
Respiratory System
Monika I. Hollenhorst, Thomas Husnik, Malin Zylka, Nele Duda, Veit Flockerzi, Thomas Tschernig, Stephan Maxeiner, Gabriela Krasteva-Christ
Summary: This study confirmed the presence of tuft cells in the human airway from the trachea to the bronchioles. Tuft cells were found to play a functional role in regulating mucociliary clearance by activating the TRPM5 channel through bitter substances, and involving cholinergic and nitric oxide signaling pathways.
RESPIRATORY RESEARCH
(2023)
