Soybean stachyose (SBS) and phytic acid (PA) are anti-nutritional factors (ANF) which have deleterious effects on the growth and digestibility in fish. The present research studied the effects of dietary SBS and PA on...Soybean stachyose (SBS) and phytic acid (PA) are anti-nutritional factors (ANF) which have deleterious effects on the growth and digestibility in fish. The present research studied the effects of dietary SBS and PA on the expression of three serine protease genes in the liver of Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus). These genes are trypsinogen 1 (poTRY), elastase 1 (poEL) and chymotrypsinogen 1 (poCTRY). Eight artificial diets with graded levels of supplemented ANFs were formulated to 4 levels of SBS (0.00, 0.40, 0.80 and 1.50%), 4 levels of PA (0.00, 0.20, 0.40 and 0.80), respectively.Japanese flounder (initial weight 2.45 g ± 0.01 g) were fed with these diets for 10 weeks with three replications per treatment. At the end of 10 weeks, supplementation of 0.40% of dietary SBS or PA significantly increased the gene expression of poTRY and poCTRY (P<0.05). The same level of dietary SBS significantly decreased the gene expression of poEL. In comparison with the control group (ANF-free),dietary PA (0.2% and 0.8%) significantly decreased the gene expression of poTRY, poCTRY and poEL (P<0.05). However, excessive supplement of dietary SBS (1.5%) has no significant effects on these gene expressions (P>0.05). These results suggested that dietary SBS and dietary PA could directly affect the serine protease genes at the transcriptional level in Japanese flounder, and these genes'expression was more sensitive to dietary PA than to SBS under the current experimental conditions.展开更多
In order to investigate the origin of catalytic power for serine proteases,the role of the hydrogen bond in the catalytic triad was studied in the proteolysis process of the peptides chymotrypsin inhibitor 2(CI2),MCTI...In order to investigate the origin of catalytic power for serine proteases,the role of the hydrogen bond in the catalytic triad was studied in the proteolysis process of the peptides chymotrypsin inhibitor 2(CI2),MCTI-A,and a hexapeptide(SUB),respectively.We first calculated the free energy profile of the proton transfer between His and Asp residues of the catalytic triad in the enzyme-substrate state and transition state by employing QM/MM molecular dynamics simulations.The results show that a low-barrier hydrogen bond(LBHB)only forms in the transition state of the acylation of CI2,while it is a normal hydrogen bond in the acylation of MCTI-A or SUB.In addition,the change of the hydrogen bond strength is much larger in CI2 and SUB systems than in MCTI-A system,which decreases the acylation energy barrier significantly for CI2 and SUB.Clearly,a LBHB formed in the transition state region helps accelerate the acylation reaction.But to our surprise,a normal hydrogen bond can also help to decrease the energy barrier.The key to reducing the reaction barrier is the increment of hydrogen bond strength in the transition state state,whether it is a LBHB or not.Our studies cast new light on the role of the hydrogen bond in the catalytic triad,and help to understand the catalytic triad of serine proteases.展开更多
Phenoloxidases(POs)are required for the pea aphid s defense against bacterial and fungal infection.Prophenoloxidases(PPOs)are protcolytically converted to its active form PO through a clip domain serine protease casca...Phenoloxidases(POs)are required for the pea aphid s defense against bacterial and fungal infection.Prophenoloxidases(PPOs)are protcolytically converted to its active form PO through a clip domain serine protease cascade.In this study,we identified five clip domain serine proteases in the pea aphids.The messenger RNA levels of two of them,Ap.SPLP and Ap_VP,were upregulated by Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus and fungus Beauveha bassiana infections.Double-stranded RNA-based expression knockdown of these two genes resulted in reduced PO activity of the aphid hemolymph,higher loads of S.aureus and B.bassiana in the aphids,and lower survival rates of the aphids after infections.Our data suggest that Ap.SPLP and Ap_VP are involved in PPO activation pathway in the pea aphid.展开更多
The serine proteases of Mycobacteria tuberculosis(Mtb)are important contributors to the process of bacterial invasion and its pathogenesis.In the present study,we systematically characterized the role of the Rv1043c p...The serine proteases of Mycobacteria tuberculosis(Mtb)are important contributors to the process of bacterial invasion and its pathogenesis.In the present study,we systematically characterized the role of the Rv1043c protein in Mycobacterium infection by purifying the Rv1043c protein in Escherichia coli and constructing a Mycobacterium smegmatis(Msg)strain overexpressing Rv1043c(Msg_Rv1043c).We found that Rv1043c had serine protease activity and localized to the surface of Mtb.We determined that the optimal pH and temperature for the Rv1043c serine protease were 9.0 and 45°C,respectively.Moreover,the serine protease activity of Rv1043c was enhanced by divalent metal ions of Ca^(2+)and Mg^(2+).Site-directed mutagenesis studies demonstrated that the serine 279 residue in Rv1043c plays a catalytic role.Additionally,mouse model studies confirmed that Rv1043c significantly enhanced the survival of Msg in vivo,induced pulmonary injury and lung cell apoptosis,and promoted the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1βand interleukin-6 in mice.This study presents novel insights into the relationship between mycobacterial serine protease and the pathogenesis of the disease.展开更多
Female adults of the migratory locust,Locusta migratoria manilensis(Meyen),can sense seasonal photoperiod changes,which induces embryonic diapause as a key strategy to overwinter.Serine protease inhibitor genes(SPNs)w...Female adults of the migratory locust,Locusta migratoria manilensis(Meyen),can sense seasonal photoperiod changes,which induces embryonic diapause as a key strategy to overwinter.Serine protease inhibitor genes(SPNs)were thought to play key roles during diapause,while few SPNs were functionally characterized.LmSPN2 was one of those genes differentially expressed between diapause and non-diapause eggs;however,its biological function remained to be explored.So,we conducted RNAi knockdown of LmSPN2,resulting in a significant decrease of the egg diapause rate by 29.7%.Using yeast two-hybrid assays,co-immunoprecipitation,and pull-down methods,we found an interaction between LmSPN2 and LmSPN3,which was proved to be mediated by a glutamate(E331)binding site of LmSPN2.RNAi knockdown of LmSPN3 resulted in a significant increase in diapause rate by 14.6%,indicating an inverse function of LmSPN2 and LmSPN3 on diapause regulation.Double knockdown of two SPN genes resulted in a 26.4%reduction in diapause rate,indicating that LmSPN2 was the dominant regulatory signal.Moreover,we found four Toll pathway genes(easter,spätzle,pelle,and dorsal)upregulated significantly after the knockdown of LmSPN2 while downregulated after the knockdown of LmSPN3.Therefore,we speculate that two SPNs regulate diapause through the Toll pathway.Our results indicated that LmSPN2 positively regulates locust egg entry into diapause,while LmSPN3 is a negative regulator of embryonic commitment to diapause.Their interaction is mediated by the binding site of E331 and influences egg diapause through the Toll pathway.This mechanistic understanding of diapause regulation expands our understanding of insect developmental regulation and provides functional targets for developing locust management strategies.展开更多
AIM: To test the hypothesis that calcium sensing receptor (CASR) polymorphisms are associated with chronic pancreatitis (CP), and to determine whether serine protease inhibitor Kazal 1type (SPINK1) N34S or alco...AIM: To test the hypothesis that calcium sensing receptor (CASR) polymorphisms are associated with chronic pancreatitis (CP), and to determine whether serine protease inhibitor Kazal 1type (SPINK1) N34S or alcohol are necessary co-factors in its etiology. METHODS: Initially, 115 subjects with pancreatitis and 66 controls were evaluated, of whom 57 patients and 21 controls were predetermined to carry the high-risk SPINK1 N34S polymorphism. We sequenced CASR gene exons 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7, areas containing the majority of reported polymorphisms and novel mutations. Based on the initial results, we added 223 patients and 239 controls to analyze three common nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in exon 7 (A986S, R990G, and Q1011E). RESULTS: The CASR exon 7 R990G polyrnorphism was significantly associated with CP (OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.12-3.59; P = 0.015). The association between CASR R990G and CP was stronger in subjects who reported moderate or heavy alcohol consumption (OR, 3.12; 95% CI, 1.14-9.13; P = 0.018). There was no association between the various CASR genotypes and SPINK1 N34S in pancreatitis. None of the novel CASR polymorphisms reported from Germany and India was detected. CONCLUSION: Our United States-based study confirmed an association of CASR and CP and for the first time demonstrated that CASR R990G is a significant risk factor for CP. We also conclude that the risk of CP with CASR R990G is increased in subjects with moderate to heavy alcohol consumption.展开更多
BACKGROUND: HtrA1, a serine protease, is down-regulated in various human solid tumors. Overexpression of HtrA1 in human cancer cells inhibits cell growth and proliferation in vitro and in vivo, suggesting its possible...BACKGROUND: HtrA1, a serine protease, is down-regulated in various human solid tumors. Overexpression of HtrA1 in human cancer cells inhibits cell growth and proliferation in vitro and in vivo, suggesting its possible role as a tumor suppressor. METHODS: Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of HtrA1 in 50 hepatocellular carcinoma specimens and adjacent liver tissues. The correlation between the expression of HtrA1 and the clinico-pathologic data were analyzed. RESULTS: The levels of HtrA1 were lower in tumor tissues than in their adjacent liver tissues. Moreover, an inverse relationship was found between HtrA1 expression and the differentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma. Loss of HtrA1 was more frequently found in tumors in Edmondson grade especially in those with venous invasion, compared to tumors in Edmondson grade I-II. Most importantly, patients with higher HtrA1 expression had a better survival rate. CONCLUSION: All these data suggest an important role of HtrA1 in hepatocellular carcinoma development and progression, which may be a new target for its treatment.展开更多
In the study, a serine protease gene from Pantoea ananatis was cloned and expressed in prokaryotic cells. The activity of recombinant serine protease was analyzed. The results showed that the recombinant serine protea...In the study, a serine protease gene from Pantoea ananatis was cloned and expressed in prokaryotic cells. The activity of recombinant serine protease was analyzed. The results showed that the recombinant serine protease gene was 1 062 bp, encoding 352 amino acids ; the optimal reaction temperature for recombinant serine protease was 50 ℃, and the optimal pH was 5. 0. The serine protease could be developed into a new tool enzyme in biological engineering and food processing.展开更多
Objective: To construct the point mutation plasmids expressing HCV NS3/4A with different secondary structures at the N-terminus, and to analyze their serine protease activities. Methods: The point mutation plasmid c...Objective: To construct the point mutation plasmids expressing HCV NS3/4A with different secondary structures at the N-terminus, and to analyze their serine protease activities. Methods: The point mutation plasmid constructs were generated by using the QuickChange site-directed mutagenesis kit with the backbone of M-H05-5 (AI-1), and were named as subgroup A1-2, A2-1, A2-2, BI-1, B1-2, B2-1, and B2-2 respectively. The transient expression of the constructs was investigated by immunofluorescence assay and Western blot analysis. The difference in in cis and in trans NS3 serine protease activity between each subgroup was determined by Western blot analysis. Luciferase reporter assay was used to observe the inhibitory effects of the constructs on RIG-I induced IFN-β promoter activity and on p53-dependent transcriptional activation. Results: The point mutation plasmid constructs were verified for the correct sequence by DNA sequencing. The immunofluorescence assay revealed 4 subcellular localization patterns of NS3, including dot-like staining, diffuse staining, doughnut-like staining, and rod-shape staining. Western blot analysis indicated that the incomplete cleavage of NS3/4A appeared in subgroups A2-1 and B2-1, indicating that the in cis NS3 serine protease activities of subgroup A2-1 and B2-1 were weaker when compared with the other subgroups. By using NS5A/SBAC as a substrate for NS3/4A serine protease, it was also found that the in trans NS3 serine protease activities of subgroup A2-1 and B2-1 were also weaker compared the other subgroups. Differences in inhibitory effects of HCV NS3 on RIG-I induced IFN-β promoter activity and on p53-dependent transcriptional activation were also observed between subgroup A2-1, B2-1 and the other subgroups. Conclusion: The results suggest that subgroup A2-1 and B2-1 has weaker serine protease activities and weaker inhibitory activities on host cell functions than the other subgroups, which might be explained by the different secondary structure of the 120-aa sequence at N-terminus of NS3.展开更多
Plasma kallikrein(PK), a serine protease in the trypsin clan(SA), plays critical roles in many physiological and pathological pathways. Regulating the abnormal activity of PK has been successfully used in the clin...Plasma kallikrein(PK), a serine protease in the trypsin clan(SA), plays critical roles in many physiological and pathological pathways. Regulating the abnormal activity of PK has been successfully used in the clinical therapy of hereditary angioedema. In this study, the serine protease domain of murine plasma kallikrein(m PK) was expressed in the pichia pastoris system. The recombinant protein was a glycosylated active enzyme after purification by the cation exchange and size-exclusion chromatography, and was crystallized at the precipitant condition of 25% PEG 3350, 0.1 M Tris-HCl pH 8.5 and 0.1 M Na Cl. The crystal structure of m PK was determined at 2.6 . This is the first published crystal structure of m PK, showing some distinctive features at S2' and S3' pockets when compared to its human analogue(human plasma kallikrein, h PK). In addition, m PK show unique structural features in the non-conservative 67-72 and 76-81 loops when compared to other serine proteases. These results provide insights for the design of potent and selective PK inhibitors.展开更多
long-term,and relapsing inflammatory disorders.IBD may spontaneously grow in the colon,and in severe cases may result in tumor lesions such as invasive carcinoma in inflamed regions of the intestine.Recent epidemiolog...long-term,and relapsing inflammatory disorders.IBD may spontaneously grow in the colon,and in severe cases may result in tumor lesions such as invasive carcinoma in inflamed regions of the intestine.Recent epidemiological reports indicate that old age and underlying diseases such as IBD contribute to severity and mortality in patients with coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19).Currently,the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic caused serious morbidity and mortality worldwide.It has also been shown that the transmembrane serine protease 2 is an essential factor for viral activation and viral engulfment.Generally,viral entry causes a'cytokine storm'that induces excessive generation of proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines including interleukin(IL)-6,IL-2,IL-7,tumor necrosis factor-α,and interferon-γ.Future research could concentrate on developing inflammatory immunological responses that are efficient to encounter COVID-19.Current analysis elucidates the role of inflammation and immune responses during IBD infection with COVID-19 and provides a list of possible targets for IBD-regulated therapies in particular.Data from clinical,in vitro,and in vivo studies were collected in English from PubMed,Google Scholar,Scopus,and the Cochrane library until May 2021.展开更多
The full-length c DNA of a protease gene from a marine annelid Arenicola cristata was amplified through rapid amplification of c DNA ends technique and sequenced. The size of the c DNA was 936 bp in length, including ...The full-length c DNA of a protease gene from a marine annelid Arenicola cristata was amplified through rapid amplification of c DNA ends technique and sequenced. The size of the c DNA was 936 bp in length, including an open reading frame encoding a polypeptide of 270 amino acid residues. The deduced amino acid sequnce consisted of pro- and mature sequences. The protease belonged to the serine protease family because it contained the highly conserved sequence GDSGGP. This protease was novel as it showed a low amino acid sequence similarity(< 40%) to other serine proteases. The gene encoding the active form of A. cristata serine protease was cloned and expressed in E. coli. Purified recombinant protease in a supernatant could dissolve an artificial fibrin plate with plasminogen-rich fibrin, whereas the plasminogen-free fibrin showed no clear zone caused by hydrolysis. This result suggested that the recombinant protease showed an indirect fibrinolytic activity of dissolving fibrin, and was probably a plasminogen activator. A rat model with venous thrombosis was established to demonstrate that the recombinant protease could also hydrolyze blood clot in vivo. Therefore, this recombinant protease may be used as a thrombolytic agent for thrombosis treatment. To our knowledge, this study is the first of reporting the fibrinolytic serine protease gene in A. cristata.展开更多
Objective: The aim of the study was to detect the levels of mannose-binding lectin (MBL), MBL-associated serine protease 2 (MASP-2) and explore the clinical significances of them in patients with primary thyroid ...Objective: The aim of the study was to detect the levels of mannose-binding lectin (MBL), MBL-associated serine protease 2 (MASP-2) and explore the clinical significances of them in patients with primary thyroid neoplasms. Methods: By using ELISA method, we detected the serum levels of MBL and MASP-2 in 26 patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), 30 patients with thyroid adenoma (TA) and 26 healthy people, respectively. Results: Serum MBL level was (565.23 ± 76.70) μg/L in PTCs higher than (324.267 ±24.74) μg/L in TAs, and (152.69± 16.95) IJg/L in healthy of controlling group. There was statistical significance between PTC and TA (P 〈 0.05), however there was no difference between TA and healthy (P 〉 0.05). Serum MASP-2 level was (726.153± 78.88) pg/L in PTCs higher than (379.266 ± 30.26) μg/L in TAs, and (203.846 ± 29.09) μg/L in healthy. Serum MASP-2 level was higher in PTCs than TAs, and the difference had statistical significance (P 〈 0.01). But no difference was observed between in TAs and healthy. Conclusion: These findings might reflect inflammatory processes induced by defense mechanisms, in response to the development of the turnout. MBL may also be involved in the elimination of possible tumourigenic pathogens.展开更多
Objective:The novel coronavirus(severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2)has been spreading worldwide since December 2019,posing a serious danger to human health and socioeconomic development.A large number of ...Objective:The novel coronavirus(severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2)has been spreading worldwide since December 2019,posing a serious danger to human health and socioeconomic development.A large number of clinical trials have revealed that coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)results in multi-organ damage including the urogenital system.This study aimed to explore the potential mechanisms of genitourinary damage associated with COVID-19 infection through bioinformatics and molecular simulation analysis.Methods:We used multiple publicly available databases to explore the expression patterns of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2(ACE2),transmembrane serine protease 2(TMPRSS2),and CD147 in major organs in the healthy and disease-specific populations,particularly the genitourinary organs.Single-cell RNA sequencing was used to analyze the cell-specific expression patterns of ACE2,TMPRSS2,CD147,cytokine receptors,and cytokine interacting proteins in genitourinary organs,such as the bladder,kidney,prostate,and testis.Additionally,gene set enrichmentanalysis was used to investigate the relationship between testosterone levels and COVID-19 vulnerability in patients with prostate cancer.Results:The results revealed that ACE2,TMPRSS2,and CD147 were highly expressed in normal urogenital organs.Then,they were also highly expressed in multiple tumors and chronic kidney diseases.Additionally,ACE2,TMPRSS2,and CD147 were significantly expressed in a range of cells in urogenital organs according to single-cell RNA sequencing.Cytokine receptors and cytokine interacting proteins,especially CCL2,JUN,and TIMP1,were commonly highly expressed in urogenital organs.Finally,gene set enrichment analysis results showed that high testosterone levels in prostate cancer patients were significantly related to the JAK-STAT signaling pathway and the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway which were associated with COVID-19.Conclusion:Our study provides new insights into the potential mechanisms of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 damage to urogenital organs from multiple perspectives,which may draw the attention of urologists to COVID-19 and contribute to the development of targeted drugs.展开更多
Aberrant functioning of serine proteases in inflammatory and carcinogenic processes within the gastrointestinal tract(GIT)has prompted scientists to investigate the potential of serine protease inhibitors,both natural...Aberrant functioning of serine proteases in inflammatory and carcinogenic processes within the gastrointestinal tract(GIT)has prompted scientists to investigate the potential of serine protease inhibitors,both natural and synthetic,as modulators of their proteolytic activities.Protease inhibitors of the Bowman-Birk type,a major protease inhibitor family in legume seeds,which inhibit potently and specifically trypsin-and chymotrypsin-like proteases,are currently being investigated as colorectal chemopreventive agents.Physiologically relevant amounts of Bowman-Birk inhibitors(BBI)can reach the large intestine in active form due to their extraordinary resistance to extreme conditions within the GIT.Studies in animal models have proven that dietary BBI from several legume sources,including soybean,pea,lentil and chickpea,can prevent or suppress carcinogenic and inflammatory processes within the GIT.Although the therapeutic targets and the action mechanism of BBI have not yet been elucidated,the emerging evidence suggests that BBI exert their preventive properties via protease inhibition;in this sense,serine proteases should be considered as primary targets in early stages of carcinogenesis.The validation of candidate serine proteases as therapeutic targets together with the identification,within the wide array of natural BBI variants,of the most potent and specific protease inhibitors,are necessary to better understand the potential of this protein family as colorectal chemopreventive agents.展开更多
BACKGROUND Recent advancements in biliary tract cancer(BTC)treatment have expanded beyond surgery to include adjuvant therapy,yet the prognosis remains poor.Identifying prognostic biomarkers could enhance the assessme...BACKGROUND Recent advancements in biliary tract cancer(BTC)treatment have expanded beyond surgery to include adjuvant therapy,yet the prognosis remains poor.Identifying prognostic biomarkers could enhance the assessment of patients who have undergone radical resection for BTC.AIM To determine transmembrane serine protease 4(TMPRSS4)utility as a prognostic biomarker of radical resection for BTC.METHODS Medical records of patients who underwent radical resection for BTC,excluding intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma,were retrospectively reviewed.The associations between TMPRSS4 expression and clinicopathological factors,overall survival,and recurrence-free survival were analyzed.RESULTS Among the 85 patients undergoing radical resection for BTC,46(54%)were TMPRSS4-positive.The TMPRSS4-positive group exhibited significantly higher preoperative carbohydrate antigen 19-9(CA19-9)values and greater lymphatic invasion than the TMPRSS4-negative group(P=0.019 and 0.039,respectively).Postoperative overall survival and recurrence-free survival were significantly worse in the TMPRSS4-positive group(median survival time:25.3 months vs not reached,P<0.001;median survival time:28.7 months vs not reached,P=0.043,respectively).Multivariate overall survival analysis indicated TMPRSS4 positivity,pT3/T4,and resection status R1 were independently associated with poor prognosis(P=0.032,0.035 and 0.030,respectively).TMPRSS4 positivity correlated with preoperative CA19-9 values≥37 U/mL and pathological tumor size≥30 mm(P=0.016 and 0.038,respectively).CONCLUSION TMPRSS4 is a potential prognostic biomarker of radical resection for BTC.展开更多
Human blood coagulation factor XI (FXI) is a key enzyme in the amplification phase of blood coagulation cascade, and is recognized as an important target for anti-coagulant development in recent years. We designed a...Human blood coagulation factor XI (FXI) is a key enzyme in the amplification phase of blood coagulation cascade, and is recognized as an important target for anti-coagulant development in recent years. We designed a new mutant form of FXIa catalytic domain rhFXI370-607 (N73Q-N113Q-C123S), and report here the facile preparation, protein crystallization, and crystal structure of this protein. We highlight a few unique structural features of FXIa after comparison with the trypsin family serine proteases at sequence and structural levels. This work provides a foundation to develop new small molecular FXIa inhibitors with increased potency and specificity.展开更多
To study the expression and significance of the serine protease Omi/HtrA2 in prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia. The expression of Omi/HtrA2 was assayed by means of immunohistochemical technique in 41 pr...To study the expression and significance of the serine protease Omi/HtrA2 in prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia. The expression of Omi/HtrA2 was assayed by means of immunohistochemical technique in 41 prostate cancer (Cap),20 benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and 10 normal prostate (NP) specimens. Omi/HtrA2 expression was positive in 30 (73.17%) prostate cancer specimens, and the positive rate of Omi/HtrA2 was lower in well differentiated than in poorly and moderately differentiated groups (P〈0.05). By contrast, the cells in normal prostate and benign prostatic hyperplasia groups showed no or weak expression of Omi/HtrA2. Prostate cancer cells in vivo may need Omi/HtrA2 expression for apoptosis, and that Omi/HtrA2 expression might be involved in prostate cancer development.展开更多
Kazal-type serine protease inhibitor is one of the most important and widely distributed protease inhibitor families. Pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor (PSTI), also known as serine protease inhibitor Kazal type I...Kazal-type serine protease inhibitor is one of the most important and widely distributed protease inhibitor families. Pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor (PSTI), also known as serine protease inhibitor Kazal type I(SPINK1), binds rapidly to trypsin, inhibits its activity and is likely to protect the pancreas from prematurely activated trypsinogen. Therefore, it is an important factor in the onset of pancreatitis. Recent studies found that PSTI/SPINK1 is also involved in self-regulation of acinar cell phagocytosis, proliferation and growth of a variety of cell lines. In addition, it takes part in the response to inflammatory factor or injury and is highly related to adult type II citrullinemia.展开更多
基金financially supported by grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.31072219)
文摘Soybean stachyose (SBS) and phytic acid (PA) are anti-nutritional factors (ANF) which have deleterious effects on the growth and digestibility in fish. The present research studied the effects of dietary SBS and PA on the expression of three serine protease genes in the liver of Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus). These genes are trypsinogen 1 (poTRY), elastase 1 (poEL) and chymotrypsinogen 1 (poCTRY). Eight artificial diets with graded levels of supplemented ANFs were formulated to 4 levels of SBS (0.00, 0.40, 0.80 and 1.50%), 4 levels of PA (0.00, 0.20, 0.40 and 0.80), respectively.Japanese flounder (initial weight 2.45 g ± 0.01 g) were fed with these diets for 10 weeks with three replications per treatment. At the end of 10 weeks, supplementation of 0.40% of dietary SBS or PA significantly increased the gene expression of poTRY and poCTRY (P<0.05). The same level of dietary SBS significantly decreased the gene expression of poEL. In comparison with the control group (ANF-free),dietary PA (0.2% and 0.8%) significantly decreased the gene expression of poTRY, poCTRY and poEL (P<0.05). However, excessive supplement of dietary SBS (1.5%) has no significant effects on these gene expressions (P>0.05). These results suggested that dietary SBS and dietary PA could directly affect the serine protease genes at the transcriptional level in Japanese flounder, and these genes'expression was more sensitive to dietary PA than to SBS under the current experimental conditions.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2017YFA0206500)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.22073040)。
文摘In order to investigate the origin of catalytic power for serine proteases,the role of the hydrogen bond in the catalytic triad was studied in the proteolysis process of the peptides chymotrypsin inhibitor 2(CI2),MCTI-A,and a hexapeptide(SUB),respectively.We first calculated the free energy profile of the proton transfer between His and Asp residues of the catalytic triad in the enzyme-substrate state and transition state by employing QM/MM molecular dynamics simulations.The results show that a low-barrier hydrogen bond(LBHB)only forms in the transition state of the acylation of CI2,while it is a normal hydrogen bond in the acylation of MCTI-A or SUB.In addition,the change of the hydrogen bond strength is much larger in CI2 and SUB systems than in MCTI-A system,which decreases the acylation energy barrier significantly for CI2 and SUB.Clearly,a LBHB formed in the transition state region helps accelerate the acylation reaction.But to our surprise,a normal hydrogen bond can also help to decrease the energy barrier.The key to reducing the reaction barrier is the increment of hydrogen bond strength in the transition state state,whether it is a LBHB or not.Our studies cast new light on the role of the hydrogen bond in the catalytic triad,and help to understand the catalytic triad of serine proteases.
基金This work was financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China grant 31772530Natural Science Foundation of Shaanxi Province(2017JM3003)to ZL.
文摘Phenoloxidases(POs)are required for the pea aphid s defense against bacterial and fungal infection.Prophenoloxidases(PPOs)are protcolytically converted to its active form PO through a clip domain serine protease cascade.In this study,we identified five clip domain serine proteases in the pea aphids.The messenger RNA levels of two of them,Ap.SPLP and Ap_VP,were upregulated by Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus and fungus Beauveha bassiana infections.Double-stranded RNA-based expression knockdown of these two genes resulted in reduced PO activity of the aphid hemolymph,higher loads of S.aureus and B.bassiana in the aphids,and lower survival rates of the aphids after infections.Our data suggest that Ap.SPLP and Ap_VP are involved in PPO activation pathway in the pea aphid.
基金This research was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFD1800403)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32273005 and 32002256).
文摘The serine proteases of Mycobacteria tuberculosis(Mtb)are important contributors to the process of bacterial invasion and its pathogenesis.In the present study,we systematically characterized the role of the Rv1043c protein in Mycobacterium infection by purifying the Rv1043c protein in Escherichia coli and constructing a Mycobacterium smegmatis(Msg)strain overexpressing Rv1043c(Msg_Rv1043c).We found that Rv1043c had serine protease activity and localized to the surface of Mtb.We determined that the optimal pH and temperature for the Rv1043c serine protease were 9.0 and 45°C,respectively.Moreover,the serine protease activity of Rv1043c was enhanced by divalent metal ions of Ca^(2+)and Mg^(2+).Site-directed mutagenesis studies demonstrated that the serine 279 residue in Rv1043c plays a catalytic role.Additionally,mouse model studies confirmed that Rv1043c significantly enhanced the survival of Msg in vivo,induced pulmonary injury and lung cell apoptosis,and promoted the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1βand interleukin-6 in mice.This study presents novel insights into the relationship between mycobacterial serine protease and the pathogenesis of the disease.
基金This work was supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFD1400500)the China Agriculture Research System of MOF and MARA(CARS-34-07)+1 种基金the Publicinterest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund,China(Y2022GH12)the Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund,China(S2021XM22 and S2022XM21)。
文摘Female adults of the migratory locust,Locusta migratoria manilensis(Meyen),can sense seasonal photoperiod changes,which induces embryonic diapause as a key strategy to overwinter.Serine protease inhibitor genes(SPNs)were thought to play key roles during diapause,while few SPNs were functionally characterized.LmSPN2 was one of those genes differentially expressed between diapause and non-diapause eggs;however,its biological function remained to be explored.So,we conducted RNAi knockdown of LmSPN2,resulting in a significant decrease of the egg diapause rate by 29.7%.Using yeast two-hybrid assays,co-immunoprecipitation,and pull-down methods,we found an interaction between LmSPN2 and LmSPN3,which was proved to be mediated by a glutamate(E331)binding site of LmSPN2.RNAi knockdown of LmSPN3 resulted in a significant increase in diapause rate by 14.6%,indicating an inverse function of LmSPN2 and LmSPN3 on diapause regulation.Double knockdown of two SPN genes resulted in a 26.4%reduction in diapause rate,indicating that LmSPN2 was the dominant regulatory signal.Moreover,we found four Toll pathway genes(easter,spätzle,pelle,and dorsal)upregulated significantly after the knockdown of LmSPN2 while downregulated after the knockdown of LmSPN3.Therefore,we speculate that two SPNs regulate diapause through the Toll pathway.Our results indicated that LmSPN2 positively regulates locust egg entry into diapause,while LmSPN3 is a negative regulator of embryonic commitment to diapause.Their interaction is mediated by the binding site of E331 and influences egg diapause through the Toll pathway.This mechanistic understanding of diapause regulation expands our understanding of insect developmental regulation and provides functional targets for developing locust management strategies.
基金NIH R01 DK061451 (DCW) and Andrew and Michelle Aloe
文摘AIM: To test the hypothesis that calcium sensing receptor (CASR) polymorphisms are associated with chronic pancreatitis (CP), and to determine whether serine protease inhibitor Kazal 1type (SPINK1) N34S or alcohol are necessary co-factors in its etiology. METHODS: Initially, 115 subjects with pancreatitis and 66 controls were evaluated, of whom 57 patients and 21 controls were predetermined to carry the high-risk SPINK1 N34S polymorphism. We sequenced CASR gene exons 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7, areas containing the majority of reported polymorphisms and novel mutations. Based on the initial results, we added 223 patients and 239 controls to analyze three common nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in exon 7 (A986S, R990G, and Q1011E). RESULTS: The CASR exon 7 R990G polyrnorphism was significantly associated with CP (OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.12-3.59; P = 0.015). The association between CASR R990G and CP was stronger in subjects who reported moderate or heavy alcohol consumption (OR, 3.12; 95% CI, 1.14-9.13; P = 0.018). There was no association between the various CASR genotypes and SPINK1 N34S in pancreatitis. None of the novel CASR polymorphisms reported from Germany and India was detected. CONCLUSION: Our United States-based study confirmed an association of CASR and CP and for the first time demonstrated that CASR R990G is a significant risk factor for CP. We also conclude that the risk of CP with CASR R990G is increased in subjects with moderate to heavy alcohol consumption.
文摘BACKGROUND: HtrA1, a serine protease, is down-regulated in various human solid tumors. Overexpression of HtrA1 in human cancer cells inhibits cell growth and proliferation in vitro and in vivo, suggesting its possible role as a tumor suppressor. METHODS: Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of HtrA1 in 50 hepatocellular carcinoma specimens and adjacent liver tissues. The correlation between the expression of HtrA1 and the clinico-pathologic data were analyzed. RESULTS: The levels of HtrA1 were lower in tumor tissues than in their adjacent liver tissues. Moreover, an inverse relationship was found between HtrA1 expression and the differentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma. Loss of HtrA1 was more frequently found in tumors in Edmondson grade especially in those with venous invasion, compared to tumors in Edmondson grade I-II. Most importantly, patients with higher HtrA1 expression had a better survival rate. CONCLUSION: All these data suggest an important role of HtrA1 in hepatocellular carcinoma development and progression, which may be a new target for its treatment.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(31270577)Jiangsu Postdoctoral Sustentation Fund(1302041B)+2 种基金Dual-innovation Doctoral Program of Jiangsu ProvinceOpen Fund of Key Laboratory of Food Resource Development,Quality and Safe of Jiangsu ProvinceScientific Research Project of Xuzhou Institute of Technology(XKY2013108)
文摘In the study, a serine protease gene from Pantoea ananatis was cloned and expressed in prokaryotic cells. The activity of recombinant serine protease was analyzed. The results showed that the recombinant serine protease gene was 1 062 bp, encoding 352 amino acids ; the optimal reaction temperature for recombinant serine protease was 50 ℃, and the optimal pH was 5. 0. The serine protease could be developed into a new tool enzyme in biological engineering and food processing.
基金supported by Japan China Sasakawa Medical Fellowship(2006-2007)
文摘Objective: To construct the point mutation plasmids expressing HCV NS3/4A with different secondary structures at the N-terminus, and to analyze their serine protease activities. Methods: The point mutation plasmid constructs were generated by using the QuickChange site-directed mutagenesis kit with the backbone of M-H05-5 (AI-1), and were named as subgroup A1-2, A2-1, A2-2, BI-1, B1-2, B2-1, and B2-2 respectively. The transient expression of the constructs was investigated by immunofluorescence assay and Western blot analysis. The difference in in cis and in trans NS3 serine protease activity between each subgroup was determined by Western blot analysis. Luciferase reporter assay was used to observe the inhibitory effects of the constructs on RIG-I induced IFN-β promoter activity and on p53-dependent transcriptional activation. Results: The point mutation plasmid constructs were verified for the correct sequence by DNA sequencing. The immunofluorescence assay revealed 4 subcellular localization patterns of NS3, including dot-like staining, diffuse staining, doughnut-like staining, and rod-shape staining. Western blot analysis indicated that the incomplete cleavage of NS3/4A appeared in subgroups A2-1 and B2-1, indicating that the in cis NS3 serine protease activities of subgroup A2-1 and B2-1 were weaker when compared with the other subgroups. By using NS5A/SBAC as a substrate for NS3/4A serine protease, it was also found that the in trans NS3 serine protease activities of subgroup A2-1 and B2-1 were also weaker compared the other subgroups. Differences in inhibitory effects of HCV NS3 on RIG-I induced IFN-β promoter activity and on p53-dependent transcriptional activation were also observed between subgroup A2-1, B2-1 and the other subgroups. Conclusion: The results suggest that subgroup A2-1 and B2-1 has weaker serine protease activities and weaker inhibitory activities on host cell functions than the other subgroups, which might be explained by the different secondary structure of the 120-aa sequence at N-terminus of NS3.
基金Financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31570745,31370737,31400637)the Danish National Research Foundation(26-331-6)
文摘Plasma kallikrein(PK), a serine protease in the trypsin clan(SA), plays critical roles in many physiological and pathological pathways. Regulating the abnormal activity of PK has been successfully used in the clinical therapy of hereditary angioedema. In this study, the serine protease domain of murine plasma kallikrein(m PK) was expressed in the pichia pastoris system. The recombinant protein was a glycosylated active enzyme after purification by the cation exchange and size-exclusion chromatography, and was crystallized at the precipitant condition of 25% PEG 3350, 0.1 M Tris-HCl pH 8.5 and 0.1 M Na Cl. The crystal structure of m PK was determined at 2.6 . This is the first published crystal structure of m PK, showing some distinctive features at S2' and S3' pockets when compared to its human analogue(human plasma kallikrein, h PK). In addition, m PK show unique structural features in the non-conservative 67-72 and 76-81 loops when compared to other serine proteases. These results provide insights for the design of potent and selective PK inhibitors.
文摘long-term,and relapsing inflammatory disorders.IBD may spontaneously grow in the colon,and in severe cases may result in tumor lesions such as invasive carcinoma in inflamed regions of the intestine.Recent epidemiological reports indicate that old age and underlying diseases such as IBD contribute to severity and mortality in patients with coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19).Currently,the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic caused serious morbidity and mortality worldwide.It has also been shown that the transmembrane serine protease 2 is an essential factor for viral activation and viral engulfment.Generally,viral entry causes a'cytokine storm'that induces excessive generation of proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines including interleukin(IL)-6,IL-2,IL-7,tumor necrosis factor-α,and interferon-γ.Future research could concentrate on developing inflammatory immunological responses that are efficient to encounter COVID-19.Current analysis elucidates the role of inflammation and immune responses during IBD infection with COVID-19 and provides a list of possible targets for IBD-regulated therapies in particular.Data from clinical,in vitro,and in vivo studies were collected in English from PubMed,Google Scholar,Scopus,and the Cochrane library until May 2021.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 30901779)the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province, China (No. ZR2009CM019)
文摘The full-length c DNA of a protease gene from a marine annelid Arenicola cristata was amplified through rapid amplification of c DNA ends technique and sequenced. The size of the c DNA was 936 bp in length, including an open reading frame encoding a polypeptide of 270 amino acid residues. The deduced amino acid sequnce consisted of pro- and mature sequences. The protease belonged to the serine protease family because it contained the highly conserved sequence GDSGGP. This protease was novel as it showed a low amino acid sequence similarity(< 40%) to other serine proteases. The gene encoding the active form of A. cristata serine protease was cloned and expressed in E. coli. Purified recombinant protease in a supernatant could dissolve an artificial fibrin plate with plasminogen-rich fibrin, whereas the plasminogen-free fibrin showed no clear zone caused by hydrolysis. This result suggested that the recombinant protease showed an indirect fibrinolytic activity of dissolving fibrin, and was probably a plasminogen activator. A rat model with venous thrombosis was established to demonstrate that the recombinant protease could also hydrolyze blood clot in vivo. Therefore, this recombinant protease may be used as a thrombolytic agent for thrombosis treatment. To our knowledge, this study is the first of reporting the fibrinolytic serine protease gene in A. cristata.
基金Supported by a grant of Natural Science Funds Projects of Hebei Province (No. C2008001306)
文摘Objective: The aim of the study was to detect the levels of mannose-binding lectin (MBL), MBL-associated serine protease 2 (MASP-2) and explore the clinical significances of them in patients with primary thyroid neoplasms. Methods: By using ELISA method, we detected the serum levels of MBL and MASP-2 in 26 patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), 30 patients with thyroid adenoma (TA) and 26 healthy people, respectively. Results: Serum MBL level was (565.23 ± 76.70) μg/L in PTCs higher than (324.267 ±24.74) μg/L in TAs, and (152.69± 16.95) IJg/L in healthy of controlling group. There was statistical significance between PTC and TA (P 〈 0.05), however there was no difference between TA and healthy (P 〉 0.05). Serum MASP-2 level was (726.153± 78.88) pg/L in PTCs higher than (379.266 ± 30.26) μg/L in TAs, and (203.846 ± 29.09) μg/L in healthy. Serum MASP-2 level was higher in PTCs than TAs, and the difference had statistical significance (P 〈 0.01). But no difference was observed between in TAs and healthy. Conclusion: These findings might reflect inflammatory processes induced by defense mechanisms, in response to the development of the turnout. MBL may also be involved in the elimination of possible tumourigenic pathogens.
文摘Objective:The novel coronavirus(severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2)has been spreading worldwide since December 2019,posing a serious danger to human health and socioeconomic development.A large number of clinical trials have revealed that coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)results in multi-organ damage including the urogenital system.This study aimed to explore the potential mechanisms of genitourinary damage associated with COVID-19 infection through bioinformatics and molecular simulation analysis.Methods:We used multiple publicly available databases to explore the expression patterns of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2(ACE2),transmembrane serine protease 2(TMPRSS2),and CD147 in major organs in the healthy and disease-specific populations,particularly the genitourinary organs.Single-cell RNA sequencing was used to analyze the cell-specific expression patterns of ACE2,TMPRSS2,CD147,cytokine receptors,and cytokine interacting proteins in genitourinary organs,such as the bladder,kidney,prostate,and testis.Additionally,gene set enrichmentanalysis was used to investigate the relationship between testosterone levels and COVID-19 vulnerability in patients with prostate cancer.Results:The results revealed that ACE2,TMPRSS2,and CD147 were highly expressed in normal urogenital organs.Then,they were also highly expressed in multiple tumors and chronic kidney diseases.Additionally,ACE2,TMPRSS2,and CD147 were significantly expressed in a range of cells in urogenital organs according to single-cell RNA sequencing.Cytokine receptors and cytokine interacting proteins,especially CCL2,JUN,and TIMP1,were commonly highly expressed in urogenital organs.Finally,gene set enrichment analysis results showed that high testosterone levels in prostate cancer patients were significantly related to the JAK-STAT signaling pathway and the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway which were associated with COVID-19.Conclusion:Our study provides new insights into the potential mechanisms of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 damage to urogenital organs from multiple perspectives,which may draw the attention of urologists to COVID-19 and contribute to the development of targeted drugs.
基金Supported by ERDF-co-financed grant from the Spanish CICYT,No.AGL2011-26353 to Clemente AClemente A involved in COST Action FA1005 INFOGEST on Food Digestion
文摘Aberrant functioning of serine proteases in inflammatory and carcinogenic processes within the gastrointestinal tract(GIT)has prompted scientists to investigate the potential of serine protease inhibitors,both natural and synthetic,as modulators of their proteolytic activities.Protease inhibitors of the Bowman-Birk type,a major protease inhibitor family in legume seeds,which inhibit potently and specifically trypsin-and chymotrypsin-like proteases,are currently being investigated as colorectal chemopreventive agents.Physiologically relevant amounts of Bowman-Birk inhibitors(BBI)can reach the large intestine in active form due to their extraordinary resistance to extreme conditions within the GIT.Studies in animal models have proven that dietary BBI from several legume sources,including soybean,pea,lentil and chickpea,can prevent or suppress carcinogenic and inflammatory processes within the GIT.Although the therapeutic targets and the action mechanism of BBI have not yet been elucidated,the emerging evidence suggests that BBI exert their preventive properties via protease inhibition;in this sense,serine proteases should be considered as primary targets in early stages of carcinogenesis.The validation of candidate serine proteases as therapeutic targets together with the identification,within the wide array of natural BBI variants,of the most potent and specific protease inhibitors,are necessary to better understand the potential of this protein family as colorectal chemopreventive agents.
文摘BACKGROUND Recent advancements in biliary tract cancer(BTC)treatment have expanded beyond surgery to include adjuvant therapy,yet the prognosis remains poor.Identifying prognostic biomarkers could enhance the assessment of patients who have undergone radical resection for BTC.AIM To determine transmembrane serine protease 4(TMPRSS4)utility as a prognostic biomarker of radical resection for BTC.METHODS Medical records of patients who underwent radical resection for BTC,excluding intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma,were retrospectively reviewed.The associations between TMPRSS4 expression and clinicopathological factors,overall survival,and recurrence-free survival were analyzed.RESULTS Among the 85 patients undergoing radical resection for BTC,46(54%)were TMPRSS4-positive.The TMPRSS4-positive group exhibited significantly higher preoperative carbohydrate antigen 19-9(CA19-9)values and greater lymphatic invasion than the TMPRSS4-negative group(P=0.019 and 0.039,respectively).Postoperative overall survival and recurrence-free survival were significantly worse in the TMPRSS4-positive group(median survival time:25.3 months vs not reached,P<0.001;median survival time:28.7 months vs not reached,P=0.043,respectively).Multivariate overall survival analysis indicated TMPRSS4 positivity,pT3/T4,and resection status R1 were independently associated with poor prognosis(P=0.032,0.035 and 0.030,respectively).TMPRSS4 positivity correlated with preoperative CA19-9 values≥37 U/mL and pathological tumor size≥30 mm(P=0.016 and 0.038,respectively).CONCLUSION TMPRSS4 is a potential prognostic biomarker of radical resection for BTC.
基金Supported by FJIRSM (SZD08003)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(30811130467,30625011,30770429)Chinese Academy of Sciences (KSCX2-YW-R-082)
文摘Human blood coagulation factor XI (FXI) is a key enzyme in the amplification phase of blood coagulation cascade, and is recognized as an important target for anti-coagulant development in recent years. We designed a new mutant form of FXIa catalytic domain rhFXI370-607 (N73Q-N113Q-C123S), and report here the facile preparation, protein crystallization, and crystal structure of this protein. We highlight a few unique structural features of FXIa after comparison with the trypsin family serine proteases at sequence and structural levels. This work provides a foundation to develop new small molecular FXIa inhibitors with increased potency and specificity.
文摘To study the expression and significance of the serine protease Omi/HtrA2 in prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia. The expression of Omi/HtrA2 was assayed by means of immunohistochemical technique in 41 prostate cancer (Cap),20 benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and 10 normal prostate (NP) specimens. Omi/HtrA2 expression was positive in 30 (73.17%) prostate cancer specimens, and the positive rate of Omi/HtrA2 was lower in well differentiated than in poorly and moderately differentiated groups (P〈0.05). By contrast, the cells in normal prostate and benign prostatic hyperplasia groups showed no or weak expression of Omi/HtrA2. Prostate cancer cells in vivo may need Omi/HtrA2 expression for apoptosis, and that Omi/HtrA2 expression might be involved in prostate cancer development.
基金Supported by the National Basic Research 973 Pre-research Program of China,No.2006CB708506
文摘Kazal-type serine protease inhibitor is one of the most important and widely distributed protease inhibitor families. Pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor (PSTI), also known as serine protease inhibitor Kazal type I(SPINK1), binds rapidly to trypsin, inhibits its activity and is likely to protect the pancreas from prematurely activated trypsinogen. Therefore, it is an important factor in the onset of pancreatitis. Recent studies found that PSTI/SPINK1 is also involved in self-regulation of acinar cell phagocytosis, proliferation and growth of a variety of cell lines. In addition, it takes part in the response to inflammatory factor or injury and is highly related to adult type II citrullinemia.