記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

To understand why Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) (L2/434/Bu) favors hypoxia, we examined the dynamics of infected cells using a glycolysis-related PCR array and metabolomic analysis, along with the perturbation of nucleotide synthesis. Our findings revealed that, compared to normoxia, hypoxia with infection significantly and selectively upregulates the expression of genes related to glycolysis, glycogen degradation, and the pentose phosphate pathway. Furthermore, hypoxia induced a significant decrease in metabolite levels, particularly methionine-related metabolites, independent of infection, indicating efficient metabolism under hypoxia. Additionally, the perturbation of nucleotide synthesis with adenosine derivatives impaired Ct growth. Collectively, our results suggest that Ct favors a hypoxic environment with efficient metabolism, in which Ct readily activates glycolysis responsible for stable nucleotide synthesis as well as ATP supply.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150461

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担当区分：最終著者,　責任著者   記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：eLife  

Canine distemper virus (CDV) belongs to morbillivirus, including measles virus (MeV) and rinderpest virus, which causes serious immunological and neurological disorders in carnivores, including dogs and rhesus monkeys, as recently reported, but their vaccines are highly effective. The attachment glycoprotein hemagglutinin (CDV-H) at the CDV surface utilizes signaling lympho-cyte activation molecule (SLAM) and Nectin-4 (also called poliovirus-receptor-like-4; PVRL4) as entry receptors. Although fusion models have been proposed, the molecular mechanism of morbillivirus fusion entry is poorly understood. Here, we determined the crystal structure of the globular head domain of CDV-H vaccine strain at 3.2 Å resolution, revealing that CDV-H exhibits a highly tilted homodimeric form with a six-bladed β-propeller fold. While the predicted Nectin-4-binding site is well conserved with that of MeV-H, that of SLAM is similar but partially different, which is expected to contribute to host specificity. Five N-linked sugars covered a broad area of the CDV-H surface to expose receptor-binding sites only, supporting the effective production of neutralizing antibodies. These features are common to MeV-H, although the glycosylation sites are completely different. Furthermore, real-time observation using high-speed atomic force microscopy revealed highly mobile features of the CDV-H dimeric head via the connector region. These results suggest that sugar-shielded tilted homodimeric structure and dynamic conformational changes are common characteristics of morbilliviruses and ensure effective fusion entry and vaccination.

DOI： 10.7554/eLife.88929

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担当区分：最終著者,　責任著者   記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Small antibody fragments have recently been used as alternatives to full-length monoclonal antibodies in therapeutic applications. One of the most popular fragment antibodies is single-chain fragment variables (scFvs), consisting of variable heavy (VH) and variable light (VL) domains linked by a flexible peptide linker. scFvs have small molecular sizes, which enables good tissue penetration and low immunogenicity. Despite these advantages, the use of scFvs, especially for therapeutic purpose, is still limited because of the difficulty to regulate the binding activity and conformational stability. In this study, we constructed and analyzed 10 scFv fragments derived from 10 representatives of FDA-approved mAbs to evaluate their physicochemical properties. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis showed that scFvs exhibited relatively high but varied thermostability, from 50 to 70°C of melting temperatures, and different unfolding cooperativity. Surface plasmon resonance analysis revealed that scFvs fragments that exhibit high stability and cooperative unfolding likely tend to maintain antigen binding. This study demonstrated the comprehensive physicochemical properties of scFvs derived from FDA-approved antibodies, providing insights into antibody design and development.

DOI： 10.1002/pro.5084

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Mincle (macrophage-inducible C-type lectin, CLEC4E) is a C-type lectin immune-stimulatory receptor that can be targeted for inducing potent adjuvant effects. Mincle can recognize trehalose dimycolate and related glycolipids. Here, we present a protocol to identify the ligand binding mode of Mincle. We describe steps for preparing labeled Mincle ectodomain, data acquisition, and analysis of nuclear magnetic resonance experiments using non-detergent sulfobetaine-195. This protocol can be applied to other protein-ligand interactions that have aggregation problems for complex formation. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Furukawa et al.1.

DOI： 10.1016/j.xpro.2024.102996

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

SARS-CoV-2 rapidly mutates and acquires resistance to neutralizing antibodies. We report an in-silico-designed antibody that restores the neutralizing activity of a neutralizing antibody. Our previously generated antibody, UT28K, exhibited broad neutralizing activity against mutant variants; however, its efficacy against Omicron BA.1 was compromised by the mutation. Using previously determined structural information, we designed a modified-UT28K (VH T28R/N57D), UT28K-RD targeting the mutation site. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated the efficacy of UT28K-RD in neutralizing Omicron BA.1. Although the experimentally determined structure partially differed from the predicted model, our study serves as a successful case of antibody design, wherein the predicted amino acid substitution enhanced the recognition of the previously elusive Omicron BA.1. We anticipate that numerous similar cases will be reported, showcasing the potential of this approach for improving protein-protein interactions. Our findings will contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for highly mutable viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2.

DOI： 10.1016/j.str.2023.12.013

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担当区分：最終著者   記述言語：日本語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Researchers collect data and use various methods to organize it. Ensuring the reliability and reproducibility of data is crucial, and collaboration across different research fields is on the rise. However, when there is geographical distance, sharing data becomes a challenging task. Therefore, there is a need for the development of a mechanism for sharing data on the web. We have developed an integrated database to facilitate the sharing and management of research data, particularly focusing on small molecules. The integrated database serves as a platform for centralizing data related to small molecules, including their chemical structures, wet lab experimental data, simulation data, and more. It has been constructed as a web application, offering features such as library management for small molecules, registration and viewing of wet lab experiment results, generation of initial conformations for simulations, and data visualization. This enables researchers to efficiently share their research data and collaborate seamlessly, whether within their research group or via cloud-based access that allows project and team members to connect from anywhere. This integrated database plays a critical role in connecting wet lab experiments and simulations, enabling researchers to cross-reference and analyze experimental data comprehensively. It serves as an essential tool to advance research and foster idea generation.

DOI： 10.1248/yakushi.23-00191-2

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担当区分：最終著者,　責任著者   記述言語：日本語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

DOI： 10.1248/yakushi.23-00191-F

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担当区分：最終著者,　責任著者   記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections are causing significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Furthermore, over 1 million cases of newly emerging or re-emerging viral infections, specifically dengue virus (DENV), are known to occur annually. Because no virus-specific and fully effective treatments against these or many other viruses have been approved, there is an urgent need for novel, effective therapeutic agents. Here, we identified 2-thiouridine (s2U) as a broad-spectrum antiviral ribonucleoside analogue that exhibited antiviral activity against several positive-sense single-stranded RNA (ssRNA+) viruses, such as DENV, SARS-CoV-2, and its variants of concern, including the currently circulating Omicron subvariants. s2U inhibits RNA synthesis catalyzed by viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, thereby reducing viral RNA replication, which improved the survival rate of mice infected with DENV2 or SARS-CoV-2 in our animal models. Our findings demonstrate that s2U is a potential broad-spectrum antiviral agent not only against DENV and SARS-CoV-2 but other ssRNA+ viruses.

DOI： 10.1073/pnas.2304139120

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担当区分：筆頭著者   記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Chemical Communications  

A new compound, a derivative of 3,4,5-trimethoxy-N-phenyl benzamide bearing an 8′′-methylimidazopyridine moiety, is found to demonstrate neuroprotective effects by preventing cell death caused by oxidative stress. The compound possesses high solubility and metabolic stability, and inhibits MPTP-induced effects in vivo, indicating high potential as a therapeutic drug for Parkinson's disease.

DOI： 10.1039/d3cc03069e

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Cigarette smoking is a risk factor for respiratory infection caused by immune cell dysfunction. Cigarette smoke is divided into tar and gas phases. Although the gas phase induces cell death in various cell types, the mechanism for gas phase-induced cell death remains to be clarified. In this study, we have examined the effects of cigarette smoke gas phase on J774 macrophages. Cigarette smoke gas phase and cytotoxic factors in the gas phase induced protein kinase C (PKC)-dependent ferroptosis. Pharmacological studies using isoform-specific PKC inhibitors have revealed that PKCβ is involved in cigarette smoke gas phase-induced ferroptosis in J774 macrophages.

DOI： 10.1016/j.jphs.2023.06.001

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants have evolved to evade receptor-binding site (RBS) antibodies that exist in diverse individuals as public antibody clones. We rationally selected RBS antibodies resilient to mutations in emerging Omicron subvariants. Y489 was identified as a site of virus vulnerability and a common footprint of broadly neutralizing antibodies against the subvariants. Multiple Y489-binding antibodies were encoded by public clonotypes and additionally recognized F486, potentially accounting for the emergence of Omicron subvariants harboring the F486V mutation. However, a subclass of antibodies broadly neutralized BA.4/BA.5 variants via hydrophobic binding sites of rare clonotypes along with high mutation-resilience under escape mutation screening. A computationally designed antibody based on one of the Y489-binding antibodies, NIV-10/FD03, was able to bind XBB with any 486 mutation and neutralized XBB.1.5. The structural basis for the mutation-resilience of this Y489-binding antibody group may provide important insights into the design of therapeutics resistant to viral escape.

DOI： 10.1038/s41467-023-39890-8

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担当区分：最終著者,　責任著者   記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Elsevier BV  

Mincle (macrophage-inducible C-type lectin, CLEC4E) is a C-type lectin immune-stimulatory receptor for cord factor, trehalose dimycolate (TDM), which serves as a potent component of adjuvants. The recognition of glycolipids by Mincle, especially their lipid parts, is poorly understood. Here, we performed nuclear magnetic resonance analysis, revealing that titration of trehalose harboring a linear short acyl chain showed a chemical shift perturbation of hydrophobic residues next to the Ca-binding site. Notably, there were split signals for Tyr201 upon complex formation, indicating two binding modes for the acyl chain. In addition, most Mincle residues close to the Ca-binding site showed no observable signals, suggesting their mobility on an ∼ ms scale even after complex formation. Mutagenesis study supported two putative lipid-binding modes for branched acyl-chain TDM binding. These results provide novel insights into the plastic-binding modes of Mincle toward a wide range of glycol- and glycerol-lipids, important for rational adjuvant development.

DOI： 10.1016/j.str.2023.05.018

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The synthesis, characterization, and catalytic performance of an iridium(III) catalyst with an electron-deficient cyclopentadienyl ligand ([CpEIrI2]2) are reported. The [CpEIrI2]2 catalyst was synthesized by complexation of a precursor of the CpE ligand with [Ir(cod)OAc]2, followed by oxidation, desilylation, and removal of the COD ligand. The electron-deficient [CpEIrI2]2 catalyst enabled C-H amidation reactions assisted by a weakly coordinating ether directing group. Experimental mechanistic studies and DFT calculations suggested that the high catalytic performance of [CpEIrI2]2 is due to its electron-deficient nature, which accelerates both C-H activation and Ir(V)-nitrenoid formation.

DOI： 10.1002/anie.202301259

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Based on the clinical success of an in vitro transcribed mRNA (IVT-mRNA) that is encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (mRNA-LNPs), there is a growing demand by researchers to test whether their own biological findings might be applicable for use in mRNA-based therapeutics. However, the equipment and/or know-how required for manufacturing such nanoparticles is often inaccessible. To encourage more innovation in mRNA therapeutics, a simple method for preparing mRNA-LNPs is prerequisite. In this study, we report on a method for encapsulating IVT-mRNA into LNPs by rehydrating a Ready-to-Use empty freeze-dried LNP (LNPs(RtoU)) formulation with IVT-mRNA solution followed by heating. The resulting mRNA-LNPs(RtoU) had a similar intraparticle structure compared to the mRNA-LNPs prepared by conventional microfluidic mixing. In vivo genome editing, a promising application of these types of mRNA-LNPs, was accomplished using the LNPs(RtoU) containing co-encapsulated Cas9-mRNA and a small guide RNA.

DOI： 10.1021/acsnano.2c10501

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Frontiers in Immunology  

In the published article, there were errors. In the original article, there was an error in the description of the Reverse primer sequence in Materials and methods. A correction has been made to Materials and methods, “Deep amplicon sequencing of CMV-UL40 genomic DNA”. This sentence previously stated: “The following forward and reverse primers were used:Forward, 5′-TCGTCGGCAGCGTCAGATGTGTATAAGAGACAGCAACAGTCGGCAGAATGAAC-3′ and Reverse, 5′-GTCTCGTGGGCTCGGAGATGTGTATAAGAGACA GCTGGAACACGACGCATA-3’.”The corrected sentence appears below: “The following forward and reverse primers were used: Forward, 5′-TCGTCGGCAGCGTCAGATGTGTATAAGAGACAGCAACAGTCGGCAGAATGAAC-3′ and Reverse, 5′-GTCTCGTGGGCTCGGAGATGTGTATAAGAGAC AGCTGGAACACGAGCGGACATA-3’.”In the original article, there was another error in the description of the concentration of the anti-HLA-E antibody in Materials and methods. A correction has been made to Materials and methods, “Immunohistochemistry analysis”. This sentence previously stated: “After antigen retrieval with boiling citrate buffer (pH 6.0), the sections were incubated with 5% skim milk for 1 h at room temperature to prevent nonspecific binding and stained with 10 mL/mL anti-HLA-E antibody [MEM-E/02] (Abcam; Cambridge, UK) or IgG from mouse serum (Sigma-Aldrich) overnight at 4°C.” The corrected sentence appears below: “After antigen retrieval with boiling citrate buffer (pH 6.0), the sections were incubated with 5% skim milk for 1 h at room temperature to prevent nonspecific binding and stained with 10 mg/mL anti-HLA-E antibody [MEM-E/02] (Abcam; Cambridge, UK) or IgG from mouse serum (Sigma-Aldrich) overnight at 4°C.” The authors apologize for these errors and state that these do not change the scientific conclusions of the article in any way. The original article has been updated.

DOI： 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1124440

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Dihydromaniwamycin E (1), a new maniwamycin derivative featuring an azoxy moiety, has been isolated from the culture extract of thermotolerant Streptomyces sp. JA74 along with the known analogue maniwamycin E (2). Compound 1 is produced only by cultivation of strain JA74 at 45 °C, and this type of compound has been previously designated a "heat shock metabolite (HSM)" by our research group. Compound 2 is detected as a production-enhanced metabolite at high temperature. Structures of 1 and 2 are elucidated by NMR and MS spectroscopic analyses. The absolute structure of 1 is determined after the total synthesis of four stereoisomers. Though the absolute structure of 2 has been proposed to be the same as the structure of maniwamycin D, the NMR and the optical rotation value of 2 are in agreement with those of maniwamycin E. Therefore, this study proposes a structural revision of maniwamycins D and E. Compounds 1 and 2 show inhibitory activity against the influenza (H1N1) virus infection of MDCK cells, demonstrating IC50 values of 25.7 and 63.2 μM, respectively. Notably, 1 and 2 display antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, when used to infect 293TA and VeroE6T cells, with 1 and 2 showing IC50 values (for infection of 293TA cells) of 19.7 and 9.7 μM, respectively. The two compounds do not exhibit cytotoxicity in these cell lines at those IC50 concentrations.

DOI： 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.2c00550

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is one of the aggressive peripheral T-cell neoplasms with a poor prognosis. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that escape from adaptive immunity is a hallmark of ATLL pathogenesis. However, the mechanisms by which ATLL cells evade natural killer (NK)-cell-mediated immunity have been poorly understood. Here we show that CD48 expression in ATLL cells determines the sensitivity for NK-cell-mediated cytotoxicity against ATLL cells. We performed unbiased genome-wide clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) screening using 2 ATLL-derived cell lines and discovered CD48 as one of the best-enriched genes whose knockout conferred resistance to YT1-NK cell line-mediated cytotoxicity. The ability of CD48-knockout ATLL cells to evade NK-cell effector function was confirmed using human primary NK cells with reduced interferon-γ (IFNγ) induction and degranulation. We found that primary ATLL cells had reduced CD48 expression along with disease progression. Furthermore, other subgroups among aggressive peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCLs) also expressed lower concentrations of CD48 than normal T cells, suggesting that CD48 is a key molecule in malignant T-cell evasion of NK-cell surveillance. Thus, this study demonstrates that CD48 expression is likely critical for malignant T-cell lymphoma cell regulation of NK-cell-mediated immunity and provides a rationale for future evaluation of CD48 as a molecular biomarker in NK-cell-associated immunotherapies.

DOI： 10.1182/blood.2022015646

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：Frontiers in Immunology  

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infections develop into CMV diseases that result in various forms of manifestations in local organs. CMV-retinitis is a form of CMV disease that develops in immunocompromised hosts with CMV-viremia after viruses in the peripheral circulation have entered the eye. In the HCMV genome, extensive diversification of the UL40 gene has produced peptide sequences that modulate NK cell effector functions when loaded onto HLA-E and are subsequently recognized by the NKG2A and NKG2C receptors. Notably, some HCMV strains carry UL40 genes that encode peptide sequences identical to the signal peptide sequences of specific HLA-A and HLA-C allotypes, which enables these CMV strains to escape HLA-E-restricted CD8+T cell responses. Variations in UL40 sequences have been studied mainly in the peripheral blood of CMV-viremia cases. In this study, we sought to investigate how ocular CMV disease develops from CMV infections. CMV gene sequences were compared between the intraocular fluids and peripheral blood of 77 clinical cases. UL40 signal peptide sequences were more diverse, and multiple sequences were typically present in CMV-viremia blood compared to intraocular fluid. Significantly stronger NK cell suppression was induced by UL40-derived peptides from intraocular HCMV compared to those identified only in peripheral blood. HCMV present in intraocular fluids were limited to those carrying a UL40 peptide sequence corresponding to the leader peptide sequence of the host’s HLA class I, while UL40-derived peptides from HCMV found only in the peripheral blood were disparate from any HLA class I allotype. Overall, our analyses of CMV-retinitis inferred that specific HCMV strains with UL40 signal sequences matching the host’s HLA signal peptide sequences were those that crossed the blood–ocular barrier to enter the intraocular space. UL40 peptide repertoires were the same in the intraocular fluids of all ocular CMV diseases, regardless of host immune status, implying that virus type is likely to be a common determinant in ocular CMV disease development. We thus propose a mechanism for ocular CMV disease development, in which particular HCMV types in the blood exploit peripheral and central HLA-E-mediated tolerance mechanisms and, thus, escape the antivirus responses of both innate and adaptive immunity.

DOI： 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1008220

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Because the breakdown of the blood-brain spinal cord barrier (BBSCB) worsens many central nervous system (CNS) diseases, prevention of BBSCB breakdown has been a major therapeutic target, especially for spinal cord injury (SCI). However, effective drugs that protect BBSCB function have yet to be developed. The purpose of the current study was 1) to develop a high-throughput screening assay (HTSA) to identify candidate drugs to protect BBSCB function, 2) to identify candidate drugs from existing drugs with newly developed HTSA, and 3) to examine the therapeutic effects of candidate drugs on SCI. Our HTSA included a culture of immortalized human brain endothelial cells primed with candidate drugs, stress with H2O2, and evaluation of their viability. A combination of the resazurin-based assay with 0.45 mM H2O2 qualified as a reliable HTSA. Screening of 1,570 existing drugs identified 90 drugs as hit drugs. Through a combination of reproducibility tests, exclusion of drugs inappropriate for clinical translation, and dose dependency tests, berberine, mubritinib, and pioglitazone were identified as a candidate. An in vitro BBSCB functional test revealed that berberine and mubritinib, but not pioglitazone, protected BBSCB from oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation stress. Additionally, these two drugs minimized BBSCB breakdown 1 day after cervical SCI in mice. Furthermore, berberine and mubritinib reduced neuronal loss and improved gait performance 8 weeks after SCI. Collectively, the current study established a useful HTSA to identify potential neuroprotective drugs by maintaining BBSCB function and demonstrated the neuroprotective effect of berberine and mubritinib after SCI.

DOI： 10.1007/s13311-022-01310-y

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：MDPI AG  

In this study, we show that the coronavirus (CoV) genome may encode many functional hydrophobic alpha-helical peptides (HAHPs) in overlapping reading frames of major coronaviral proteins throughout the entire viral genome. These HAHPs can theoretically be expressed from non-canonical sub-genomic (sg)RNAs that are synthesized in substantial amounts in infected cells. We selected and analyzed five and six HAHPs encoded in the S gene regions of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), respectively. Two and three HAHPs derived from SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV, respectively, specifically interacted with both the SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV S proteins and inhibited their membrane fusion activity. Furthermore, one of the SARS-CoV-2 HAHPs specifically inhibited viral RNA synthesis by accumulating at the site of viral RNA synthesis. Our data show that a group of HAHPs in the coronaviral genome potentially has a regulatory role in viral propagation.

DOI： 10.3390/pathogens11080877

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Galanin is a neuropeptide expressed in the central and peripheral nervous systems, where it regulates various processes including neuroendocrine release, cognition, and nerve regeneration. Three G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) for galanin have been discovered, which is the focus of efforts to treat diseases including Alzheimer's disease, anxiety, and addiction. To understand the basis of the ligand preferences of the receptors and to assist structure-based drug design, we used cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to solve the molecular structure of GALR2 bound to galanin and a cognate heterotrimeric G-protein, providing a molecular view of the neuropeptide binding site. Mutant proteins were assayed to help reveal the basis of ligand specificity, and structural comparison between the activated GALR2 and inactive hβ2AR was used to relate galanin binding to the movements of transmembrane (TM) helices and the G-protein interface.

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001714

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記述言語：英語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本生物物理学会  

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記述言語：英語   出版者・発行元：(一社)日本生物物理学会  

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) contribute to antitumor immunity during cancer chemotherapy. We previously demonstrated that topotecan (TPT), a topoisomerase I inhibitor, induces DAMP secretion from cancer cells, which activates STING-mediated antitumor immune responses. However, how TPT induces DAMP secretion in cancer cells is yet to be elucidated. Here, we identified RPL15, a 60S ribosomal protein, as a novel TPT target and showed that TPT inhibited preribosomal subunit formation via its binding to RPL15, resulting in the induction of DAMP-mediated antitumor immune activation independent of TOP1. TPT inhibits RPL15-RPL4 interactions and decreases RPL4 stability, which is recovered by CDK12 activity. RPL15 knockdown induced DAMP secretion and increased the CTL population but decreased the regulatory T cell population in a B16-F10 murine melanoma model, which sensitized B16-F10 tumors against PD-1 blockade. Our study identified a novel TPT target protein and showed that ribosomal stress is a trigger of DAMP secretion, which contributes to antitumor immunotherapy.

DOI： 10.4049/jimmunol.2100963

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Many potent neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 antibodies have been developed and used for therapies. However, the effectiveness of many antibodies has been reduced against recently emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, especially the Omicron variant. We identified a highly potent SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody, UT28K, in COVID-19 convalescent individuals who recovered from a severe condition. UT28K showed efficacy in neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 in an in vitro assay and in vivo prophylactic treatment, and the reactivity to the Omicron strain was reduced. The structural analyses revealed that antibody UT28K Fab and SARS-CoV-2 RBD protein interactions were mainly chain-dominated antigen-antibody interactions. In addition, a mutation analysis suggested that the emergence of a UT28K neutralization-resistant SARS-CoV-2 variant was unlikely, as this variant would likely lose its competitive advantage over circulating SARS-CoV-2. Our data suggest that UT28K offers potent protection against SARS-CoV-2, including newly emerging variants.

DOI： 10.1080/19420862.2022.2072455

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

On the immune cell surface, many immune receptors are expressed and modulate the inhibitory or activating signals to control the immune responses. Recently, some of these receptors have been categorized as immune checkpoint receptors and targeted for cancer immunity or autoimmune diseases. To analyze the weak and fast binding typical for immune receptor-ligand interactions, a real-time surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technique is useful. However, it sometimes becomes difficult to optimize the immobilization conditions and appropriate controls. Considering that receptor orientation is relevant for achieving function on the cell surface, it is important to immobilize ligand proteins using specific tags at the membrane proximal end to avoid steric hindrance and structural changes in specific binding regions. Here we introduce a sensor chip, Sensor Chip CAP (Cytiva), which enables reversible and orientation-controlled immobilization of biotinylated ligands, resulting in a significant cost-effective method. We further show preparation methods of several biotinylated immune receptor proteins for SPR analysis, which are also useful for structural and other functional analyses.

DOI： 10.1007/978-1-0716-1944-5_2

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

There is increasing evidence for the importance of human leukocyte antigen C (HLA-C)-restricted CD8+ T cells in HIV-1 control, but these responses are relatively poorly investigated. The number of HLA-C-restricted HIV-1 epitopes identified is much smaller than those of HLA-A-restricted or HLA-B-restricted ones. Here, we utilized a mass spectrometry-based approach to identify HIV-1 peptides presented by HLA-C*14:03 protective and HLA-C*14:02 nonprotective alleles. We identified 25 8- to 11-mer HLA-I-bound HIV-1 peptides from HIV-1-infected HLA-C*14:02+/14:03+ cells. Analysis of T cell responses to these peptides identified novel 6 T cell epitopes targeted in HIV-1-infected HLA-C*14:02+/14:03+ subjects. Analyses using HLA stabilization assays demonstrated that all 6 epitope peptides exhibited higher binding to and greater cell surface stabilization of HLA-C*14:02 than HLA-C*14:03. T cell response magnitudes were typically higher in HLA-C*14:02+ than HLA-C*14:03+ individuals, with responses to the Pol KM9 and Nef epitopes being significantly higher. The results show that HLA-C*14:02 can elicit stronger T cell responses to HIV-1 than HLA-C*14:03 and suggest that the single amino acid difference between these HLA-C14 subtypes at position 21, outside the peptide-binding groove, indirectly influences the stability of peptide-HLA-C*14 complexes and induction/expansion of HIV-specific T cells. Taken together with a previous finding that KIR2DL2+ NK cells recognized HLA-C*14:03+ HIV-1-infected cells more than HLA-C*14:02+ ones, the present study indicates that these HLA-C*14 subtypes differentially impact HIV-1 control by T cells and NK cells. IMPORTANCE Some human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I alleles are associated with good clinical outcomes in HIV-1 infection and are called protective HLA alleles. Identification of T cell epitopes restricted by protective HLA alleles can give important insight into virus-immune system interactions and inform design of immune-based prophylactic/therapeutic strategies. Although epitopes restricted by many protective HLA-A/B alleles have been identified, protective HLA-C alleles are relatively understudied. Here, we identified 6 novel T cell epitopes presented by both HLA-C*14:02 (no association with protection) and HLA-C*14:03 (protective) using a mass spectrometry-based immunopeptidome profiling approach. We found that these peptides bound to and stabilized HLA-C*14:02 better than HLA-C*14:03 and observed differences in induction/expansion of epitope-specific T cell responses in HIV-infected HLA-C*14:02+ versus HLA-C*14:03+ individuals. These results enhance understanding of how the microstructural difference at position 21 between these HLA-C*14 subtypes may influence cellular immune responses involved in viral control in HIV-1 infection.

DOI： 10.1128/jvi.00432-22

PubMed

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Lymphocyte activation gene-3 (LAG-3) is a potent inhibitory co-receptor; yet, its functional ligand remains elusive, with distinct potential ligands identified. Here, we investigated the relative contribution of potential ligands, stable peptide-MHC class II complexes (pMHCII) and fibrinogen-like protein 1 (FGL1), to LAG-3 activity in vitro and in vivo. Binding of LAG-3 to stable pMHCII but not to FGL1 induced T cell suppression in vitro. Consistently, LAG-3 mutants lacking FGL1-binding capacity but not those lacking stable pMHCII-binding capacity retained suppressive activity in vitro. Accordingly, targeted disruption of stable pMHCII- but not FGL1-binding capacity of LAG-3 in NOD mice recapitulated diabetes exacerbation by LAG-3 deficiency. Additionally, the loss of stable pMHCII-binding capacity of LAG-3 augmented anti-cancer immunity comparably with LAG-3 deficiency in C57BL/6 mice. These results identify stable pMHCII as a functional ligand of LAG-3 both in autoimmunity and anti-cancer immunity. Thus, stable pMHCII-LAG-3 interaction is a potential therapeutic target in human diseases.

DOI： 10.1016/j.immuni.2022.03.013

PubMed

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

MS is a powerful methodology for chemical screening to directly quantify substrates and products of enzymes, but its low throughput has been an issue. Recently, an acoustic liquid-handling apparatus (Echo®) used for rapid nano-dispensing has been coupled to a high-sensitivity mass spectrometer to create the Echo® MS system, and we applied this system to screening of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) 3CL protease inhibitors. Primary screening of 32033 chemical samples was completed in 12 h. Among the hits showing selective, dose-dependent 3CL-inhibitory activity, 8 compounds showed antiviral activity in cell-based assay.

DOI： 10.1248/cpb.c21-01003

PubMed

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記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本薬学会  

EICAの1-β-D-リボフラノシル誘導体4'-チオ誘導体(II)の抗デングウイルス(DENV)が低いのはリン酸化感受性の低下によると推定し、IIのモノリン酸プロドラッグ体を合成して、その抗DENV活性を評価した。最初に、Iの2種類のプロドラッグ(PD)を調製し、S-アシル-2-チオエチル(SATE)-PDがアリールオキシホスホルアミデート(ProTide)-PDより強い抗DENV活性を示すことを明らかにした。次に4'-thio-IのSATE-PD(III)を調製すると、IIIは予想通りIと同等の強力な抗DENV活性を示したが、その細胞毒性も2倍になった。

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Rabies has almost a 100% case-fatality rate and kills more than 59,000 people annually around the world. There is no established treatment for rabies. The rabies virus (RABV) expresses only the glycoprotein (RABVG) at the viral surface, and it is the target for the neutralizing antibodies. We previously established mouse monoclonal antibodies, 15-13 and 12-22, which showed neutralizing activity against the RABV, targeting the sequential and conformational epitopes on the RABVG, respectively. However, the molecular basis for the neutralizing activity of these antibodies is not yet fully understood. In this study, we evaluated the binding characteristics of the Fab fragments of the 15-13 and 12-22 antibodies. The recombinant RABVG protein, in prefusion form for the binding analysis, was prepared by the silkworm-baculovirus expression system. Biolayer interferometry (BLI) analysis indicated that the 15-13 Fab interacts with the RABVG, with a KD value at the nM level, and that the 12-22 Fab has a weaker binding affinity (KD ~ μM) with the RABVG compared to the 15-13 Fab. Furthermore, we determined the amino acid sequences of both the antibodies and the designed single-chain Fv fragments (scFvs) of the 15-13 and 12-22 antibodies as another potential biopharmaceutical for targeting rabies. The 15-13 and 12-22 scFvs were successfully prepared by the refolding method and were shown to interact with the RABVG at the nM level and the μM level of the KD, respectively. These binding characteristics were similar to that of each Fab. On the other hand, differential scanning fluorometry (DSF) revealed that the thermal stability of these scFvs decreases compared to their Fabs. While the improvement of the stability of scFvs will still be required, these results provide insights into the neutralizing activity and the potential therapeutic use of antibody fragments for RABV infection.

DOI： 10.3390/v13112311

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Newly emerging or re-emerging viral infections continue to cause significant morbidity and mortality every year worldwide, resulting in serious effects on both health and the global economy. Despite significant drug discovery research against dengue viruses (DENVs) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), no fully effective and specific drugs directed against these viruses have been discovered. Here, we examined the anti-DENV activity of tubercidin derivatives from a compound library from Hokkaido University and demonstrated that 5-hydroxymethyltubercidin (HMTU, HUP1108) possessed both potent anti-flavivirus and anti-coronavirus activities at submicromolar levels without significant cytotoxicity. Furthermore, HMTU inhibited viral RNA replication and specifically inhibited replication at the late stages of the SARS-CoV-2 infection process. Finally, we demonstrated that HMTU 5'-triphosphate inhibited RNA extension catalyzed by the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Our findings suggest that HMTU has the potential of serving as a lead compound for the development of a broad spectrum of antiviral agents, including SARS-CoV-2.

DOI： 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103120

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Potent neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 antibodies often target the spike protein receptor-binding site (RBS), but the variability of RBS epitopes hampers broad neutralization of multiple sarbecoviruses and drifted viruses. Here, using humanized mice, we identified an RBS antibody with a germline VH gene that potently neutralized SARS-related coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 variants. X-ray crystallography revealed coordinated recognition by the heavy chain of non-RBS conserved sites and the light chain of RBS with a binding angle mimicking the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The minimum footprints in the hypervariable region of RBS contributed to the breadth of neutralization, which was enhanced by immunoglobulin G3 (IgG3) class switching. The coordinated binding resulted in broad neutralization of SARS-CoV and emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. Low-dose therapeutic antibody treatment in hamsters reduced the virus titers and morbidity during SARS-CoV-2 challenge. The structural basis for broad neutralizing activity may inform the design of a broad spectrum of therapeutics and vaccines.

DOI： 10.1016/j.immuni.2021.08.025

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

To develop methodology to predict the potential druggability of middle molecules, we examined the structure, solubility, and permeability relationships of a diverse library (HKDL ver.1) consisting of 510 molecules (359 natural product derivatives, 76 non-natural products, 46 natural products, and 29 non-natural product derivatives). The library included peptides, depsipeptides, macrolides, and lignans, and 476 of the 510 compounds had a molecular weight in the range of 500-2000 Da. The solubility and passive diffusion velocity of the middle molecules were assessed using the parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA). Quantitative values of solubility of 471 molecules and passive diffusion velocity of 287 molecules were obtained, and their correlations with the structural features of the molecules were examined. Based on the results, we propose a method to predict the passive diffusion characteristics of middle molecules from their three-dimensional structural features.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bmcl.2021.127847

記述言語：その他   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

DOI： 10.1002/cctc.202001949

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Antiviral treatments targeting the coronavirus disease 2019 are urgently required. We screened a panel of already approved drugs in a cell culture model of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and identified two new agents having higher antiviral potentials than the drug candidates such as remdesivir and chroloquine in VeroE6/TMPRSS2 cells: the anti-inflammatory drug cepharanthine and human immunodeficiency virus protease inhibitor nelfinavir. Cepharanthine inhibited SARS-CoV-2 entry through the blocking of viral binding to target cells, while nelfinavir suppressed viral replication partly by protease inhibition. Consistent with their different modes of action, synergistic effect of this combined treatment to limit SARS-CoV-2 proliferation was highlighted. Mathematical modeling in vitro antiviral activity coupled with the calculated total drug concentrations in the lung predicts that nelfinavir will shorten the period until viral clearance by 4.9 days and the combining cepharanthine/nelfinavir enhanced their predicted efficacy. These results warrant further evaluation of the potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of cepharanthine and nelfinavir.

DOI： 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102367

記述言語：日本語  

Evaluation of immunosuppressive effects of HLA-G2 in systemic lupus erythematosus model mice

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Neuroligin 3 (NLGN3) and neurexins (NRXNs) constitute a canonical transsynaptic cell-adhesion pair, which has been implicated in autism. In autism spectrum disorder (ASD) development of sociality can be impaired. However, the molecular mechanism underlying NLGN3-mediated social development is unclear. Here, we identify non-canonical interactions between NLGN3 and protein tyrosine phosphatase δ (PTPδ) splice variants, competing with NRXN binding. NLGN3-PTPδ complex structure revealed a splicing-dependent interaction mode and competition mechanism between PTPδ and NRXNs. Mice carrying a NLGN3 mutation that selectively impairs NLGN3-NRXN interaction show increased sociability, whereas mice where the NLGN3-PTPδ interaction is impaired exhibit impaired social behavior and enhanced motor learning, with imbalance in excitatory/inhibitory synaptic protein expressions, as reported in the Nlgn3 R451C autism model. At neuronal level, the autism-related Nlgn3 R451C mutation causes selective impairment in the non-canonical pathway. Our findings suggest that canonical and non-canonical NLGN3 pathways compete and regulate the development of sociality.

DOI： 10.1038/s41467-021-22059-6

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Although the spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has resulted in a worldwide pandemic, there are currently no virus-specific drugs that are fully effective against SARS-CoV-2. Only a limited number of human-derived cells are capable of supporting SARS-CoV-2 replication and the infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 in these cells remains poor. In contrast, monkey-derived Vero cells are highly susceptibility to infection with SARS-CoV-2, although they are not suitable for the study of antiviral effects by small molecules due to their limited capacity to metabolize drugs compared to human-derived cells. In this study, our goal was to generate a virus-susceptible human cell line that would be useful for the identification and testing of candidate drugs. Towards this end, we stably transfected human lung-derived MRC5 cells with a lentiviral vector encoding angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the cellular receptor for SARS-CoV-2. Our results revealed that SARS-CoV-2 replicates efficiently in MRC5/ACE2 cells. Furthermore, viral RNA replication and progeny virus production were significantly reduced in response to administration of the replication inhibitor, remdesivir, in MRC5/ACE2 cells compared with Vero cells. We conclude that the MRC5/ACE2 cells will be important in developing specific anti-viral therapeutics and will assist in vaccine development to combat SARS-CoV-2 infections.

DOI： 10.1038/s41598-021-84882-7

記述言語：英語  

The largest disease pandemic in modern human history caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still ongoing.….

DOI： 10.1128/JVI.00434-21

記述言語：日本語  

Development of novel monoclonal antibodies against immunosuppressive HLA-G2 protein

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Enzootic nasal tumor virus type 1 (ENTV-1) (ovine nasal tumor virus) and ENTV-2 (caprine nasal tumor virus) are known to be causative agents of enzootic nasal adenocarcinoma (ENA) in sheep and goats, respectively. Although the nucleotide and amino acid sequences of ENTV-1 and ENTV-2 are quite similar, they are recognized as phylogenetically distinct viruses. The envelope protein of ENTV-1 functions as an oncoprotein in the in vitro transformation of epithelial cells and fibroblasts. Thus, it is the primary determinant of in vivo tumorigenesis in ENA. As per our knowledge, no previous studies have reported in detail the role of ENTV-2 in ENA tumorigenesis. Here, in order to investigate the molecular mechanism of caprine ENA oncogenesis by ENTV-2, we have attempted to identify the transforming potential of ENTV-2 envelope, and investigated the activation of cell signaling pathways in oncogenic transformation. Our findings confirmed that ENTV-2 envelope was capable of inducing oncogenic transformation of rat cell lines in vitro. Further, we found that MAPK, Akt, and p38 were constitutively activated in ENTV-2 envelope-transformed clone cells. In addition, inhibitor experiments revealed that MEK-MAPK and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways are involved in the ENTV-2 envelope-induced cell transformation. These data indicate that ENTV-2 envelope could induce oncogenic transformation by signaling pathways that are also utilized by ENTV-1 envelope.

DOI： 10.1007/s11262-020-01808-7

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The spike (S) protein of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) binds to a host cell receptor which facilitates viral entry. A polybasic motif detected at the cleavage site of the S protein has been shown to broaden the cell tropism and transmissibility of the virus. Here we examine the properties of SARS-CoV-2 variants with mutations at the S protein cleavage site that undergo inefficient proteolytic cleavage. Virus variants with S gene mutations generated smaller plaques and exhibited a more limited range of cell tropism compared to the wild-type strain. These alterations were shown to result from their inability to utilize the entry pathway involving direct fusion mediated by the host type II transmembrane serine protease, TMPRSS2. Notably, viruses with S gene mutations emerged rapidly and became the dominant SARS-CoV-2 variants in TMPRSS2-deficient cells including Vero cells. Our study demonstrated that the S protein polybasic cleavage motif is a critical factor underlying SARS-CoV-2 entry and cell tropism. As such, researchers should be alert to the possibility of de novo S gene mutations emerging in tissue-culture propagated virus strains.

DOI： 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009233

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) is a CD4+ T-cell neoplasm caused by human T-cell leukemia virus type I. As the prognosis for patients with ATL remains extremely poor due to resistance to conventional chemotherapy regimens, introduction of novel therapeutic agents is needed. Previous studies have reported that nucleosides 2'-deoxy-2'-methylidenecytidine (DMDC) and its derivative 2'-deoxy-2'-methylidene-5-fluorocytidine (FDMDC) exhibit antitumor activities in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) and solid tumor cell lines. Another nucleoside, 1-(2-azido-2-deoxy-β-D-arabinofuranosyl)cytosine (cytarazid), is considered a therapeutic drug with antitumor activity in human solid tumors. In this study, we investigated the effects of these nucleosides on cell growth in vitro and in vivo using relevant leukemia cell lines and NOD/Shi-scid, IL-2Rgnull (NOG) mice, respectively. The nucleosides demonstrated significant cytotoxic effects in ATL and T-ALL cell lines. Intraperitoneal administration of FDMDC and DMDC into tumor-bearing NOG mice resulted in significant suppression of tumor growth without lethal side effects. Our findings support a therapeutic application of these nucleosides against tumor progression by targeting DNA polymerase-dependent DNA synthesis in patients with ATL.

DOI： 10.3390/vaccines8040658

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Measles virus (MeV) is a highly immunotropic and contagious pathogen that can even diminish preexisting antibodies and remains a major cause of childhood morbidity and mortality worldwide despite the availability of effective vaccines. MeV is one of the most extensively studied viruses with respect to the mechanisms of JAK-STAT antagonism. Of the three proteins translated from the MeV P gene, P and V are essential for inactivation of this pathway. However, the lack of data from direct analyses of the underlying interactions means that the detailed molecular mechanism of antagonism remains unresolved. Here, we prepared recombinant MeV V protein, which is responsible for human JAK-STAT antagonism, and a panel of variants, enabling the biophysical characterization of V protein, including direct V/STAT1 and V/STAT2 interaction assays. Unambiguous direct interactions between the host and viral factors, in the absence of other factors such as Jak1 or Tyk2, were observed, and the dissociation constants were quantified for the first time. Our data indicate that interactions between the C-terminal region of V and STAT2 is 1 order of magnitude stronger than that of the N-terminal region of V and STAT1. We also clarified that these interactions are completely independent of each other. Moreover, results of size exclusion chromatography demonstrated that addition of MeV-V displaces STAT2-core, a rigid region of STAT2 lacking the N- and C-terminal domains, from preformed complexes of STAT2-core/IRF-associated domain (IRF9). These results provide a novel model whereby MeV-V can not only inhibit the STAT2/IRF9 interaction but also disrupt preassembled interferon-stimulated gene factor 3.IMPORTANCE To evade host immunity, many pathogenic viruses inactivate host Janus kinase signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathways using diverse strategies. Measles virus utilizes P and V proteins to counteract this signaling pathway. Data derived largely from cell-based assays have indicated several amino acid residues of P and V proteins as important. However, biophysical properties of V protein or its direct interaction with STAT molecules using purified proteins have not been studied. We have developed novel molecular tools enabling us to identify a novel molecular mechanism for immune evasion whereby V protein disrupts critical immune complexes, providing a clear strategy by which measles virus can suppress interferon-mediated antiviral gene expression.

DOI： 10.1128/JVI.01169-20

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

CD1d is a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I-like glycoprotein and binds to glycolipid antigens that are recognized by natural killer T (NKT) cells. To date, our understanding of the structural basis for glycolipid binding and receptor recognition of CD1d is still limited. Here, we established a preparation method for the ectodomain of human and mouse CD1d using a silkworm-baculovirus expression system. The co-expression of human and mouse CD1d and β2-microglobulin (β2m) in the silkworm-baculovirus system was successful, but the yield of human CD1d was low. A construct of human CD1d fused with β2m via a flexible GS linker as a single polypeptide was prepared to improve protein yield. The production of this single-chained complex was higher (50 μg/larva) than that of the co-expression complex. Furthermore, differential scanning calorimetry revealed that the linker made the CD1d complex more stable and homogenous. These results suggest that the silkworm-baculovirus expression system is useful for structural and biophysical studies of CD1d in several aspects including low cost, easy handling, biohazard-free, rapid, and high yielding.

DOI： 10.1016/j.pep.2020.105631

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Lyssavirus P protein is a multifunctional protein that interacts with numerous host-cell proteins. The C-terminal domain (CTD) of P is important for inhibition of JAK-STAT signaling enabling the virus to evade host immunity. Several regions on the surface of rabies virus P are reported to interact with host factors. Among them, an extended, discrete hydrophobic patch of P CTD is notable. Although structures of P CTD of two strains of rabies virus, and of mokola virus have been solved, the structure of P CTD for Duvenhage virus, which is functionally divergent from these species for immune evasion function, is not known. Here, we analyze the structures of P CTD of Duvenhage and of a distinct rabies virus strain to gain further insight on the nature and potential function of the hydrophobic surface. Molecular contacts in crystals suggest that the hydrophobic patch is important to intermolecular interactions with other proteins, which differ between the lyssavirus species.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.05.195

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Human leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptors (LILRs) typically regulate immune activation by binding to the human leukocyte antigen class I molecules. LILRA2, a member of the LILR family, was recently reported to bind to other unique ligands, the bacterially degraded Igs (N-truncated Igs), for the activation of immune cells. Therefore, LILRA2 is currently attracting significant attention as a novel innate immune receptor. However, the detailed recognition mechanisms required for this interaction remain unclear. In this study, using several biophysical techniques, we uncovered the molecular mechanism of N-truncated Ig recognition by LILRA2. Surface plasmon resonance analysis disclosed that LILRA2 specifically binds to N-truncated Ig with weak affinity (Kd = 4.8 μm) and fast kinetics. However, immobilized LILRA2 exhibited a significantly enhanced interaction with N-truncated Ig due to avidity effects. This suggests that cell surface-bound LILRA2 rapidly monitors and identifies bi- or multivalent abnormal N-truncated Igs through specific cross-linking to induce immune activation. Van't Hoff analysis revealed that this interaction is enthalpy-driven, with a small entropy loss, and results from differential scanning calorimetry indicated the instability of the putative LILRA2-binding site, the Fab region of the N-truncated Ig. Atomic force microscopy revealed that N truncation does not cause significant structural changes in Ig. Furthermore, mutagenesis analysis identified the hydrophobic region of LILRA2 domain 2 as the N-truncated Ig-binding site, representing a novel ligand-binding site for the LILR family. These results provide detailed insights into the molecular regulation of LILR-mediated immune responses targeting ligands that have been modified by bacteria.

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.RA120.013354

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G, a non-classical HLA class I molecule, has one of the splicing isoforms, HLA-G2, which lacks one domain (α2) and forms a non-covalent homodimer. HLA-G2 is expressed on placental cells, regulatory T cells, tumor cells, and virus-infected cells, and is involved in immunosuppression. The major isoform of HLA-G, HLA-G1, binds to leukocyte immunoglobulin (Ig)-like receptor (LILR) B1 and LILRB2, on the contrary, HLA-G2 binds to only LILRB2. We previously reported that HLA-G2 bound LILRB2 more strongly than HLA-G1 and also to paired Ig-like receptor (PIR)-B, a mouse homolog of LILRBs. Furthermore, HLA-G2 showed immunosuppressive effects in both collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and atopic dermatitis-like model mice. In this study, we examine in vivo effects of HLA-G2 in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) model mice. HLA-G2 showed the suppression of the typical SLE symptoms such as serum anti-dsDNA antibody level and urinary albumin index. Furthermore, HLA-G2 tended to downregulate B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) production. This is the first observation of the immunosuppressive effects of HLA-G2 isoform in SLE model mice, suggesting that HLA-G2 could be a useful therapeutic agent for SLE.

DOI： 10.1016/j.humimm.2019.11.002

記述言語：英語  

DOI： 10.1007/s12551-020-00649-w

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Measles virus, a member of the genus Morbillivirus, is highly contagious and still shows considerable mortality with over 100000 deaths annually, although efficient attenuated vaccines exist. Recent studies of measles virus haemagglutinin (MeV-H) and its receptor, including crystallographic and electron microscopic structural analyses combined with functional assays, have revealed how the MeV-H protein recognizes its cognate receptors, SLAM and Nectin-4, and how the glycan shield ensures effective vaccination. In addition, the crystal structure of the MeV-F protein indicated its similarity to those of other paramyxoviruses. Taking into account these data, several models of viral entry/membrane fusion of measles viruses and related paramyxoviruses have been proposed. Furthermore, anti-MeV-F inhibitors targeted to specific regions to inhibit MeV-F protein activation were reported, with potency for preventing MeV infection. The inhibitors targeted for entry events may potentially be applied to treatment of MeV-derived diseases, although escape mutations and drug profiles should be considered.

DOI： 10.1016/j.coviro.2020.04.002

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

LETM1 is a mitochondrial inner membrane protein that is required for maintaining the mitochondrial morphology and cristae structures, and regulates mitochondrial ion homeostasis. Here we report a role of LETM1 in the organization of cristae structures. We identified four amino acid residues of human LETM1 that are crucial for complementation of the growth deficiency caused by gene deletion of a yeast LETM1 orthologue. Substituting amino acid residues with alanine disrupts the correct assembly of a protein complex containing LETM1 and prevents changes in the mitochondrial morphology induced by exogenous LETM1 expression. Moreover, the LETM1 protein changes the shapes of the membranes of in vitro-reconstituted proteoliposomes, leading to the formation of invaginated membrane structures on artificial liposomes. LETM1 mutant proteins with alanine substitutions fail to facilitate the formation of invaginated membrane structures, suggesting that LETM1 plays a fundamental role in the organization of mitochondrial membrane morphology.

DOI： 10.1038/s42003-020-0832-5

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The CAP protein superfamily (Cysteine-rich secretory proteins (CRISPs), Antigen 5 (Ag5), and Pathogenesis-related 1 (PR-1) proteins) is widely distributed, but for toxinologists, snake venom CRISPs are the most familiar members. Although CRISPs are found in the majority of venoms, very few of these proteins have been functionally characterized, but those that have been exhibit diverse activities. Snake venom CRISPs (svCRISPs) inhibit ion channels and the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis). They also increase vascular permeability and promote inflammatory responses (leukocyte and neutrophil infiltration). Interestingly, CRISPs in lamprey buccal gland secretions also manifest some of these activities, suggesting an evolutionarily conserved function. As we strive to better understand the functions that CRISPs serve in venoms, it is worth considering the broad range of CRISP physiological activities throughout the animal kingdom. In this review, we summarize those activities, known crystal structures and sequence alignments, and we discuss predicted functional sites. CRISPs may not be lethal or major components of venoms, but given their almost ubiquitous occurrence in venoms and the accelerated evolution of svCRISP genes, these venom proteins are likely to have functions worth investigating.

DOI： 10.3390/toxins12030175

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) accessory protein Nef plays a major role in establishing and maintaining infection, particularly through immune evasion. Many HIV-2-infected people experience long-term viral control and survival, resembling HIV-1 elite control. HIV-2 Nef has overlapping but also distinct functions from HIV-1 Nef. Here we report the crystal structure of HIV-2 Nef core. The di-leucine sorting motif forms a helix bound to neighboring molecules, and moreover, isothermal titration calorimetry demonstrated that the CD3 endocytosis motif can directly bind to HIV-2 Nef, ensuring AP-2-mediated endocytosis for CD3. The highly conserved C-terminal region forms a α-helix, absent from HIV-1. We further determined the structure of simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) Nef harboring this region, demonstrating similar C-terminal α-helix, which may contribute to AP-1 binding for MHC-I downregulation. These results provide insights into the distinct pathogenesis of HIV-2 infection.

DOI： 10.1016/j.isci.2019.100758

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The measles virus (MV) is a major cause of childhood morbidity and mortality worldwide. We previously established a mouse monoclonal antibody, 2F4, which shows high neutralizing titers against eight different genotypes of MV. However, the molecular basis for the neutralizing activity of the 2F4 antibody remains incompletely understood. Here, we have evaluated the binding characteristics of a Fab fragment of the 2F4 antibody. Using the MV infectious assay, we demonstrated that 2F4 Fab inhibits viral entry via either of two cellular receptors, SLAM and Nectin4. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis of recombinant proteins indicated that 2F4 Fab interacts with MV hemagglutinin (MV-H) with a KD value at the nm level. Furthermore, we designed a single-chain Fv fragment of 2F4 antibody as another potential biopharmaceutical to target measles. The stable 2F4 scFv was successfully prepared by the refolding method and shown to interact with MV-H at the μm level. Like 2F4 Fab, scFv inhibited receptor binding and viral entry. This indicates that 2F4 mAb uses the receptor-binding site and/or a neighboring region as an epitope with high affinity. These results provide insight into the neutralizing activity and potential therapeutic use of antibody fragments for MV infection.

DOI： 10.1111/febs.14991

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Aggregation of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies has a potential risk of immunogenicity, requiring minimization of aggregate formation. We have developed a fitting formula for antibody aggregation at 40°C based on physicochemical parameters, including colloidal and conformational stabilities. An IgG1 monoclonal antibody, MAb-T, was formulated in 24 combinations of different buffer types and pH with or without sodium chloride. The fitting formula for monomer loss was successfully established by nonlinear regression analysis of the results from accelerated stability testing. Calculated monomer fraction values by the fitting formula were strongly correlated with experimental values (R2 = 0.92). The model includes secondary virial coefficient, B22, as the representative parameter of colloidal stability, and aggregation temperature, Tagg, representing conformational stability. Then, we examined charge state, conformational flexibility, and thermal unfolding profile of MAb-T to clarify the molecular basis for the different aggregation propensities in sodium acetate buffer and in sodium citrate buffer at the same pH and buffer concentration. We concluded that the accumulation of citrate anions on the surface of MAb-T is the primary source of the less colloidal and conformational stabilities, resulting in the higher aggregation propensity in sodium citrate buffer.

DOI： 10.1016/j.xphs.2019.10.038

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Human leukocyte Ig-like receptors (LILR) LILRB1 and LILRB2 are immune checkpoint receptors that regulate a wide range of physiological responses by binding to diverse ligands, including HLA-G. HLA-G is exclusively expressed in the placenta, some immunoregulatory cells, and tumors and has several unique isoforms. However, the recognition of HLA-G isoforms by LILRs is poorly understood. In this study, we characterized LILR binding to the β2-microglobulin (β2m)-free HLA-G1 isoform, which is synthesized by placental trophoblast cells and tends to dimerize and multimerize. The multimerized β2m-free HLA-G1 dimer lacked detectable affinity for LILRB1, but bound strongly to LILRB2. We also determined the crystal structure of the LILRB1 and HLA-G1 complex, which adopted the typical structure of a classical HLA class I complex. LILRB1 exhibits flexible binding modes with the α3 domain, but maintains tight contacts with β2m, thus accounting for β2m-dependent binding. Notably, both LILRB1 and B2 are oriented at suitable angles to permit efficient signaling upon complex formation with HLA-G1 dimers. These structural and functional features of ligand recognition by LILRs provide novel insights into their important roles in the biological regulations.

DOI： 10.4049/jimmunol.1900562

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Inosine 5'-monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) is an essential enzyme for the production of guanine nucleotides. Disruption of IMPDH activity has been explored as a therapeutic strategy for numerous purposes, such as for anticancer, immunosuppression, antiviral, and antimicrobial therapy. In the present study, we established a luciferase-based high-throughput screening system to identify IMPDH inhibitors from our chemical library of known bioactive small molecules. The screening of 1400 compounds resulted in the discovery of three irreversible inhibitors: disulfiram, bronopol, and ebselen. Each compound has a distinct chemical moiety that differs from other reported IMPDH inhibitors. Further evaluation revealed that these compounds are potent inhibitors of IMPDHs with kon values of 0.7 × 104 to 9.3 × 104 M-1·s-1. Both disulfiram and bronopol exerted similar degree of inhibition to protozoan and mammalian IMPDHs. Ebselen showed an intriguing difference in mode of inhibition for different IMPDHs, with reversible and irreversible inhibition to each Cryptosporidium parvum IMPDH and human IMPDH type II, respectively. In the preliminary efficacy experiment against cryptosporidiosis in severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mouse, a decrease in the number of oocyst shed was observed upon the oral administration of disulfiram and bronopol, providing an early clinical proof-of-concept for further utilization of these compounds as IMPDH inhibitors.

DOI： 10.1080/14756366.2018.1540474

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-G, which consists of seven splice variants, is a tolerogenic immune checkpoint molecule. It plays an important role in the protection of the fetus from the maternal immune response by binding to inhibitory receptors, including leukocyte Ig-like receptors (LILRs). Recent studies have also revealed that HLA-G is involved in the progression of cancer cells and the protection from autoimmune diseases. In contrast to its well characterized isoform, HLA-G1, the binding activities of other major HLA-G isoforms, such as HLA-G2, toward available anti-HLA-G antibodies are only partially understood. Here, we investigate the binding specificities of anti-HLA-G antibodies by using surface plasmon resonance. MEM-G9 and G233 showed strong affinities to HLA-G1, with a nM range for their dissociation constants, but did not show affinities to HLA-G2. The disulfide-linker HLA-G1 dimer further exhibited significant avidity effects. On the other hand, 4H84 and MEM-G1, which can be used for the Western blotting of HLA-G isoforms, can bind to native HLA-G2, while MEM-G9 and G233 cannot. These results reveal that HLA-G2 has a partially intrinsically disordered structure. Furthermore, MEM-G1, but not 4H84, competes with the LILRB2 binding of HLA-G2. These results provide novel insight into the functional characterization of HLA-G isoforms and their detection systems.

DOI： 10.3390/ijms20235947

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Novel Notch signaling inhibitor NSI‑1 suppresses nuclear translocation of the Notch intracellular domain.
The Notch receptor serves a fundamental role in the regulation of cell fate determination through intracellular signal transmission. Mutation of the Notch receptor results in abnormal active signaling, leading to the development of diseases involving abnormal cell growth, including malignant tumors. Therefore, the Notch signaling pathway is a useful pharmacological target for the treatment of cancer. In the present study, a compound screening system was designed to identify inhibitors of the Notch signaling targeting Notch intracellular domain (NICD). A total of 9,600 compounds were analyzed using the Michigan Cancer Foundation‑7 (MCF7) human breast adenocarcinoma cell line and the SH‑SY5Y human neuroblastoma cell line with the reporter assay system using an artificial protein encoding a partial Notch carboxyl‑terminal fragment fused to the Gal4 DNA‑binding domain. The molecular mechanism underlying the inhibition of Notch signaling by a hit compound was further validated using biochemical and cell biological approaches. Using the screening system, a potential candidate, Notch signaling inhibitor‑1 (NSI‑1), was isolated which showed 50% inhibition at 6.1 µM in an exogenous Notch signaling system. In addition, NSI‑1 suppressed the nuclear translocation of NICD and endogenous gene expression of hairy and enhancer of split‑1, indicating that NSI‑1 specifically targets Notch. Notably, NSI‑1 suppressed the cell viability of MCF7 cells and another human breast adenocarcinoma cell line, MDA‑MB‑231 exhibiting constitutive and high Notch signaling activity, whereas no significant effect was observed in the SH‑SY5Y cells bearing a lower Notch signaling activity. NSI‑1 significantly suppressed the viability of SH‑SY5Y cells expressing exogenous human Notch1. These results indicate that NSI‑1 is a novel Notch signaling inhibitor and suggest its potential as a useful drug for the treatment of diseases induced by constitutively active Notch signaling.

DOI： 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4280

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Measles virus (MV) and canine distemper virus (CDV) are highly contagious and deadly, forming part of the morbillivirus genus. The receptor recognition by morbillivirus hemagglutinin (H) is important for determining tissue tropism and host range. Recent reports largely urge caution as regards to the potential expansion of host specificities of morbilliviruses. Nonetheless, the receptor-binding potential in different species of morbillivirus H proteins is largely unknown. Herein, we show that the CDV-H protein binds to the dog signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM), but not to the human, tamarin, or mouse SLAM. In contrast, MV-H can bind to human, tamarin and dog SLAM, but not to that of mice. Notably, MV binding to dog SLAM showed a lower affinity and faster kinetics than that of human SLAM, and MV exhibits a similar entry activity in dog SLAM- and human SLAM-expressing Vero cells. The mutagenesis study using a fusion assay, based on the MV-H-SLAM complex structure, revealed differences in tolerance for the receptor specificity between MV-H and CDV-H. These results provide insights into H-SLAM specificity related to potential host expansion.

DOI： 10.3390/v11080761

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Antibody aggregates are a potential risk for immunogenicity; therefore, rational approaches to improve associated aggregation properties need to be developed. Here, we report the amino acid region responsible for aggregation initiation. Two types of therapeutic IgG1 antibody monomer samples were prepared: IgG1 mAb40-3M stored at 40°C for 3 months, which existed in monodisperse state, and the monomer mAb65-5m, which was dissociated from small soluble aggregates by heating at 65°C for 5 min. Hydrogen deuterium exchange mass spectrometry of mAb40-3M identified 2 sites in the Fc region (site 1, F239-M256; site 2, S428-G450) with increased exchange rates. Site 1 includes a region reported as being susceptible to structural change induced by stress. Exposure of site 1 was undetected after 2 months of storage at 40°C but was subsequently detectable after 3 months. As site 2 is spatially close to site 1, the structural change of site 1 could propagate site 2. Besides these 2 regions, hydrogen deuterium exchange mass spectrometry of mAb65-5m identified an exposure of I257-W281 in Fc (site 3), within which a peptide sequence with high aggregation tendency was discovered. We thus concluded that exposure of site 3 is a trigger for the association of a partially denatured antibody.

DOI： 10.1016/j.xphs.2019.02.023

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G), a nonclassic HLA class Ib molecule involved in the maintenance of maternal tolerance to semiallogeneic fetal tissues during pregnancy, has emerged as a potential therapeutic target to control allograft rejection. We demonstrate here that the level of soluble HLA-G dimer was higher in a group of 90 patients with a functioning renal allograft compared with 40 patients who rejected (RJ) their transplants. The HLA-G dimer level was not affected by demographic status. One of the potential mechanisms in tissue-organ allograft rejection involves the induction of granzymes and perforin, which are the main effector molecules expressed by CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes and function to destroy allogeneic transplants. Using genomics and molecular and cellular analyses of cells from T-cell-mediated RJ and nonrejected kidney transplant patients, cells from leukocyte Ig-like receptor B1 (LILRB1) transgenic mice, humanized mice, and genetically engineered HLA-G dimer, we demonstrated a novel mechanism by which HLA-G dimer inhibits activation and cytotoxic capabilities of human CD8+ T cells. This mechanism implicated the down-regulation of Granzyme B expression and the essential involvement of LILRB1. Thus, HLA-G dimer has the potential to be a specific and effective therapy for prevention of allograft rejection and prolongation of graft survival.-Ajith, A., Portik-Dobos, V., Nguyen-Lefebvre, A. T., Callaway, C., Horuzsko, D. D., Kapoor, R., Zayas, C., Maenaka, K., Mulloy, L. L., Horuzsko, A. HLA-G dimer targets Granzyme B pathway to prolong human renal allograft survival.

DOI： 10.1096/fj.201802017R

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Mincle, expressed in activated phagocytes, recognizes the lipid ligand to activate the innate immune system. We have synthesized glycerol derivatives possessing simple alkyl chains or aromatic rings and elucidated their structure-activity relationships using a Mincle-mediated signaling assay. The activity depends on the length of the simple acyl chains of the glycerol derivatives.

DOI： 10.1039/c8cc07322h

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Venomous snakes have endogenous proteins that neutralize the toxicity of their venom components. We previously identified five small serum proteins (SSP-1-SSP-5) from a highly venomous snake belonging to the family Viperidae as inhibitors of various toxins from snake venom. The endogenous inhibitors belong to the prostate secretory protein of 94 amino acids (PSP94) family. SSP-2 interacts with triflin, which is a member of the cysteine-rich secretory protein (CRISP) family that blocks smooth muscle contraction. However, the structural basis for the interaction and the biological roles of these inhibitors are largely unknown. Here, we determined the crystal structure of the SSP-2-triflin complex at 2.3 Å resolution. A concave region centrally located in the N-terminal domain of triflin is fully occupied by the terminal β-strands of SSP-2. SSP-2 does not bind tightly to the C-terminal cysteine-rich domain of triflin; this domain is thought to be responsible for its channel-blocker function. Instead, the cysteine-rich domain is tilted 7.7° upon binding to SSP-2, and the inhibitor appears to sterically hinder triflin binding to calcium channels. These results help explain how an endogenous inhibitor prevents the venomous protein from maintaining homeostasis in the host. Furthermore, this interaction also sheds light on the binding interface between the human homologues PSP94 and CRISP-3, which are up-regulated in prostate and ovarian cancers.

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.RA118.006840

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

AU-rich elements (ARE) exist in the 3'-untranslated regions of the mRNA transcribed from cell growth-related genes such as proto-oncogenes, cyclin-related genes, and growth factors. HuR binds and stabilizes ARE-mRNA. HuR is expressed abundantly in cancer cells and related malignant phenotypes. HuR knockdown attenuates the malignant phenotype of oral cancer cells. In this study, we screened 1570 compounds in the approved drug library by differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) to discover a HuR-targeted compound. Firstly, 55 compounds were selected by DSF. Then, 8 compounds that showed a shift in the melting temperature value in a concentration-dependent manner were selected by DSF. Of them, suramin, an anti-trypanosomal drug, binds to HuR, exhibiting fast-on and fast-off kinetic behavior on surface plasmon resonance (SPR). We confirmed that suramin significantly decreased mRNA and protein expression of cyclin A2 and cyclin B1. The cyclin A2 and cyclin B1 mRNAs were destabilized by suramin. Furthermore, the motile and invasive activities of a tongue carcinoma cell line treated with suramin were markedly lower than those of control cells. The above findings suggest that suramin binds to HuR and inhibits its function. We also showed that the anticancer effects of suramin were caused by the inhibition of HuR function, indicating its potential as a novel therapeutic agent in the treatment of oral cancer. Our results suggest that suramin, via its different mechanism, may effectively suppress progressive oral cancer that cannot be controlled using other anticancer agents.

DOI： 10.1002/cam4.1877

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The MILL family, composed of MILL1 and MILL2, is a group of nonclassical MHC class I molecules that occur in some orders of mammals. It has been reported that mouse MILL2 is involved in wound healing; however, the molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Here, we determine the crystal structure of MILL2 at 2.15 Å resolution, revealing an organization similar to classical MHC class I. However, the α1-α2 domains are not tightly fixed on the α3-β2m domains, indicating unusual interdomain flexibility. The groove between the two helices in the α1-α2 domains is too narrow to permit ligand binding. Notably, an unusual basic patch on the α3 domain is involved in the binding to heparan sulfate which is essential for MILL2 interactions with fibroblasts. These findings suggest that MILL2 has a unique structural architecture and physiological role, with binding to heparan sulfate proteoglycans on fibroblasts possibly regulating cellular recruitment in biological events.

DOI： 10.1038/s41467-018-06797-8

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Leucine-rich repeat transmembrane neuronal proteins (LRRTMs) function as postsynaptic organizers that induce excitatory synapses. Neurexins (Nrxns) and heparan sulfate proteoglycans have been identified as presynaptic ligands for LRRTMs. Specifically, LRRTM1 and LRRTM2 bind to the Nrxn splice variant lacking an insert at the splice site 4 (S4). Here, we report the crystal structure of the Nrxn1β-LRRTM2 complex at 3.4 Å resolution. The Nrxn1β-LRRTM2 interface involves Ca2+-mediated interactions and overlaps with the Nrxn-neuroligin interface. Together with structure-based mutational analyses at the molecular and cellular levels, the present structural analysis unveils the mechanism of selective binding between Nrxn and LRRTM1/2 and its modulation by the S4 insertion of Nrxn.

DOI： 10.1038/s41467-018-06333-8

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Influenza A virus (IAV) infection is initiated by the attachment of the viral glycoprotein hemagglutinin (HA) to sialic acid on the host cell surface. However, the sialic acid-containing receptor crucial for IAV infection has remained unidentified. Here, we show that HA binds to the voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel Cav1.2 to trigger intracellular Ca2+ oscillations and subsequent IAV entry and replication. IAV entry was inhibited by Ca2+ channel blockers (CCBs) or by knockdown of Cav1.2. The CCB diltiazem also inhibited virus replication in vivo. Reintroduction of wild-type but not the glycosylation-deficient mutants of Cav1.2 restored Ca2+ oscillations and virus infection in Cav1.2-depleted cells, demonstrating the significance of Cav1.2 sialylation. Taken together, we identify Cav1.2 as a sialylated host cell surface receptor that binds HA and is critical for IAV entry.

DOI： 10.1016/j.chom.2018.04.015

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Ribavirin-related compounds exert in vitro inhibitory effects toward rabies virus.
Rabies remains an invariably fatal neurological disease despite the availability of a preventive vaccination and post-exposure prophylaxis that must be immediately administered to the exposed individual before symptom onset. There is no effective medication for treatment during the symptomatic phase. Ribavirin, a guanine nucleoside analog, is a potent inhibitor of rabies virus (RABV) replication in vitro but lacks clinical efficacy. Therefore, we attempted to identify potential ribavirin analogs with comparable or superior anti-RABV activity. Antiviral activity and cytotoxicity of the compounds were initially examined in human neuroblastoma cells. Among the tested compounds, two exhibited a 5- to 27-fold higher anti-RABV activity than ribavirin. Examination of the anti-RABV mechanisms of action of the compounds using time-of-addition and minigenome assays revealed that they inhibited viral genome replication and transcription. Addition of exogenous guanosine to RABV-infected cells diminished the antiviral activity of the compounds, suggesting that they are involved in guanosine triphosphate (GTP) pool depletion by inhibiting inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH). Taken together, our findings underline the potency of nucleoside analogs as a class of antiviral compounds for the development of novel agents against RABV.

DOI： 10.1016/j.antiviral.2018.03.011

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans serve as an attachment factor for rabies virus entry and infection.
Rabies virus (RABV) is the causative agent of fatal neurological disease. Cellular attachment is the initial and essential step for viral infections. Although extensive studies have demonstrated that RABV uses various target cell molecules to mediate infection, no specific molecule has been identified as an attachment factor for RABV infection. Here we demonstrate that cellular heparan sulfate (HS) supports RABV adhesion and subsequent entry into target cells. Enzymatic removal of HS reduced cellular susceptibility to RABV infection, and heparin, a highly sulfated form of HS, blocked viral adhesion and infection. The direct binding between RABV glycoprotein and heparin was demonstrated, and this interaction was shown to require HS N- and 6-O-sulfation. We also revealed that basic amino acids in the ectodomain of RABV glycoprotein serve as major determinants for the RABV-HS interaction. Collectively, our study highlights a previously undescribed role of HS as an attachment factor for RABV infection.

DOI： 10.1093/infdis/jiy081

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Structural and thermodynamic analyses reveal critical features of glycopeptide recognition by the human PILR alpha immune cell receptor
Before entering host cells, herpes simplex virus-1 uses its envelope glycoprotein B to bind paired immunoglobulin-like type 2 receptor alpha (PILR alpha) on immune cells. PILR alpha belongs to the Siglec (sialic acid (SA)-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin)- like family, members of which bind SA. PILR alpha is the only Siglec member to recognize not only the sialylated O-linked sugar T antigen (sTn) but also its attached peptide region. We previously determined the crystal structure of PILR alpha complexed with the sTn-linked glycopeptide of glycoprotein B, revealing the simultaneous recognition of sTn and peptide by the receptor. However, the contribution of each glycopeptide component to PILR alpha binding was largely unclear. Here, we chemically synthesized glycopeptide derivatives and determined the thermodynamic parameters of their interaction with PILR alpha. We show that glycopeptides with different sugar units linking SA and peptides (i.e. "GlcNAc-type" and "deoxy-GlcNAc-type" glycopeptides) have lower affinity and more enthalpy-driven binding than the wild type (i.e. GalNAc-type glycopeptide). The crystal structures of PILR alpha complexed with these glycopeptides highlighted the importance of stereochemical positioning of the O4 atom of the sugar moiety. These results provide insights both for understanding the unique O-glycosylated peptide recognition by the PILR alpha and for the rational design of herpes simplex virus-1 entry inhibitors.

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.M117.799239

記述言語：英語  

X-ray crystal structure of Escherichia coli HspQ, a protein involved in the retardation of replication initiation
The heat shock protein HspQ (YccV) of Escherichia coli has been proposed to participate in the retardation of replication initiation in cells with the dnaA508 allele. In this study, we have determined the 2.5-Å-resolution X-ray structure of the trimer of HspQ, which is also the first structure of a member of the YccV superfamily. The acidic character of the HspQ trimer suggests an interaction surface with basic proteins. From these results, we discuss the cellular function of HspQ, including its relationship with the DnaA508 protein.

DOI： 10.1002/1873-3468.12892

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The heat shock protein HspQ (YccV) of Escherichia coli has been proposed to participate in the retardation of replication initiation in cells with the dnaA508 allele. In this study, we have determined the 2.5-angstrom- resolution X-ray structure of the trimer of HspQ, which is also the first structure of a member of the YccV superfamily. The acidic character of the HspQ trimer suggests an interaction surface with basic proteins. From these results, we discuss the cellular function of HspQ, including its relationship with the DnaA508 protein.

DOI： 10.1002/1873-3468.12892

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Matricellular proteins differ from other classical extracellular matrix proteins; for instance, they are transiently expressed as soluble proteins rather than being constitutively expressed in pathological conditions, such as acute viral infections. Accumulating studies have revealed that matricellular proteins, including osteopontin and tenascin-C, both of which interact with integrin heterodimers, are involved in inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders, and cancers. The concentrations of these matricellular proteins are elevated in the plasma of patients with certain types of cancers, indicating that they play important roles in oncogenesis. Chronic viral infections are associated with certain cancers, which are distinct from non-viral cancers. Viral oncogenes play critical roles in the development and progression of such cancers. It is vital to investigate the mechanisms of tumorigenesis and, particularly, the mechanism by which viral proteins induce tumor progression. Viral proteins have been shown to influence not only the viral-infected cancer cells, but also the stromal cells and matricellular proteins that constitute the extracellular matrix that surrounds tumor tissues. In this review, we summarize the recent progress on the involvement of matricellular proteins in oncogenic virus-induced cancers to elucidate the mechanism of oncogenesis and consider the possible role of matricellular proteins as therapeutic targets in virus-induced cancers.

DOI： 10.3390/ijms18102198

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Due to their lower production cost compared with monoclonal antibodies, single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) have potential for use in several applications, such as for diagnosis and treatment of a range of diseases, and as sensor elements. However, the usefulness of scFvs is limited by inhomogeneity through the formation of dimers, trimers, and larger oligomers. The scFv protein is assumed to be in equilibrium between the closed and open states formed by assembly or disassembly of VH and VL domains. Therefore, the production of an scFv with equilibrium biased to the closed state would be critical to overcome the problem in inhomogeneity of scFv for industrial or therapeutic applications. In this study, we obtained scFv clones stable against GA-pyridine, an advanced glycation end-product (AGE), by using a combination of a phage display system and random mutagenesis. Executing the bio-panning at 37 degrees C markedly improved the stability of scFvs. We further evaluated the radius of gyration by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), obtained compact clones, and also visualized open-close dynamics of these scFvs by high-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM), revealing that one of the compact clones was biased to the closed state. Finally, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis revealed that peak intensity and line width became homogeneous, supporting that dynamic features and/or formation of oligomers was improved in the thus-obtained clone. These findings should contribute to the future industrial and therapeutic use of scFvs.

DOI： 10.3390/molecules22101695

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G is an immune checkpoint molecule that plays critical roles in immune response and in triggering inhibitory signaling to immune cells such as T cells, natural killer cells, and antigen presenting cells. Thus, the application of HLA-G can be considered for treating immune response-related inflammatory disorders. We have previously reported that treatment with HLA-Gl and HLA-G2 ameliorates the joint swelling associated with collagen-induced arthritis of DBA/1 mice, an animal model for rheumatoid arthritis. In this study, we further investigated the effects of HLA-G1 on atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common inflammatory skin disorder. AD-like lesions were induced with the extract of the house dust mite Dermatophagoides farinae in NC/Nga mice. Continuous administration of HLA-G1 ameliorated the AD-like skin lesions in the mice. Furthermore, production of immunoglobulin E, interleukin (IL)-13, and IL-17A was significantly reduced in HLA-Gl-treated mice, suggesting a Th2/Th17-mediated immune-inhibitory function of HLA-G1 in vivo. Our studies shed light on novel therapeutic strategies with recombinant HLA-G proteins for immune reaction-mediated chronic inflammatory disorders.

DOI： 10.1016/j.intimp.2017.06.026

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles that undergo frequent fusion and fission. Optic atrophy 1 (OPA1) is an essential GTPase protein for both mitochondrial inner membrane (IM) fusion and cristae morphology. Under mitochondria-stress conditions, membrane-anchored L-OPA1 is proteolytically cleaved to form peripheral S-OPA1, leading to the selection of damaged mitochondria for mitophagy. However, molecular details of the selective mitochondrial fusion are less well understood. Here, we showed that L-OPA1 and cardiolipin (CL) cooperate in heterotypic mitochondrial IM fusion. We reconstituted an in vitro membrane fusion reaction using purified human L-OPA1 protein expressed in silkworm, and found that L-OPA1 on one side of the membrane and CL on the other side are sufficient for fusion. GTP-independent membrane tethering through L-OPA1 and CL primes the subsequent GTP-hydrolysis-dependent fusion, which can be modulated by the presence of S-OPA1. These results unveil the most minimal intracellular membrane fusion machinery. In contrast, independent of CL, a homotypic trans-OPA1 interaction mediates membrane tethering, thereby supporting the cristae structure. Thus, multiple OPA1 functions are modulated by local CL conditions for regulation of mitochondrial morphology and quality control.

DOI： 10.1038/ncb3560

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

We accomplished divergent synthesis of potent kinase inhibitor BAY 61-3606 (1) and 27 derivatives via conjugation of imidazo[1,2-c]pyrimidine and indole ring compounds with aromatic (including pyridine) derivatives by means of palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reaction. Spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) and germinal center kinase (Gck, MAP4K2) inhibition assays showed that some of the synthesized compounds were selective Gck inhibitors. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bmcl.2017.03.055

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

HLA-G is a natural tolerogenic molecule and has the following unique features: seven isoforms (HLA-G1 to HLA-G7), formation of disulfide-linked homodimers, and (beta 2-microglobulin (beta 2m)-free forms. Interestingly, individuals null for the major isoform, HLA-G1, are healthy and expressed the alpha 2 domain-deleted isoform, HLA-G2, which presumably compensates for HLA-G1 function. However, the molecular characteristics of HLA-G2 are largely unknown. In this study, we unexpectedly found that HLA-G2 naturally forms a beta 2m-free and nondisulfide-linked homodimer, which is in contrast to the disulfide-bonded beta 2m-associated HLA-G1 homodimer. Furthermore, single-particle analysis, using electron microscopy, revealed that the overall structure and domain organization of the HLA-G2 homodimer resemble those of the HLA class II heterodimer. The HLA-G2 homodimer binds to leukocyte Ig-like receptor B2 with slow dissociation and a significant avidity effect. These findings provide novel insights into leukocyte Ig-like receptor B2-mediated immune regulation by the HLA-G2 isoform, as well as the gene evolution of HLA classes.

DOI： 10.4049/jimmunol.1601296

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

A trimeric structural fusion of an antagonistic tumor necrosis factor-alpha mutant enhances molecular stability and enables facile modification
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) exerts its biological effect through two types of receptors, p55 TNF receptor (TNFR1) and p75 TNF receptor (TNFR2). An inflammatory response is known to be induced mainly by TNFR1, whereas an anti-inflammatory reaction is thought to be mediated by TNFR2 in some autoimmune diseases. We have been investigating the use of an antagonistic TNF mutant (TNFR1-selective antagonistic TNF mutant (R1antTNF)) to reveal the pharmacological effect of TNFR1-selective inhibition as a new therapeutic modality. Here, we aimed to further improve and optimize the activity and behavior of this mutant protein both in vitro and in vivo. Specifically, we examined a trimeric structural fusion of R1antTNF, formed via the introduction of short peptide linkers, as a strategy to enhance bioactivity and molecular stability. By comparative analysis with R1antTNF, the trimeric fusion, referred to as single-chain R1antTNF (scR1antTNF), was found to retain in vitro molecular properties of receptor selectivity and antagonistic activity but displayed a marked increase in thermal stability. The residence time of scR1antTNF in vivo was also significantly prolonged. Furthermore, molecular modification using polyethylene glycol (PEG) was easily controlled by limiting the number of reactive sites. Taken together, our findings show that scR1antTNF displays enhanced molecular stability while maintaining biological activity compared with R1antTNF.

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.M117.779686

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a causative agent for a variety of diseases. Although antiherpetic drugs such as acyclovir have been developed to inhibit virus replication through interaction with DNA kinases, their continuous administration leads to an increase in the frequency of drug-resistant HSV-1, which is an important clinical issue that requires urgent solution. Recently, we reported that the sialylated O-linked sugar T antigen (sTn) and its attached peptide region (O-glycosylated sTn peptide) derived from the HSV-1 glycoprotein B (gB) protein inhibited HSV-1 infection by specifically targeting paired immunoglobulin-like type 2 receptor alpha (PILR alpha) in vitro. In this study, to further identify novel inhibitors of gB-mediated HSV-1 infection in vitro, we established a cell-based fusion assay for rapid drug screening. Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells were transfected with expression plasmids for HSV-1 gB, gD, gH, and gL, and T7 RNA polymerase, and were designated as the effector cells. The CHO-K1 cells stably expressing PILRa were transfected with the expression plasmid for firefly luciferase under the T7 promoter, and were designated as the target cells. The effector and target cells were co-cultured, and luminescence was measured when both cells were successfully fused. Importantly, we found that cell-to-cell fusion was specifically inhibited by O-glycosylated sTn peptide in a dose dependent manner. Our results suggested that this virus-free cell-based fusion assay system could be a useful and promising approach to identify novel inhibitors of gB-mediated HSV-1 infection, and will aid in the development of antiviral therapeutic strategies for HSV-1-associated diseases.

DOI： 10.1248/bpb.b16-00533

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

HIV-1 Control by NK Cells via Reduced Interaction between KIR2DL2 and HLA-C*12:02/C*14:03
Natural killer (NK) cells control viral infection in part through the interaction between killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) and their human leukocyte antigen (HLA) ligands. We investigated 504 anti-retroviral (ART)-free Japanese patients chronically infected with HIV-1 and identified two KIR/HLA combinations, KIR2DL2/HLA-C*12:02 and KIR2DL2/HLA-C*14:03, that impact suppression of HIV-1 replication. KIR2DL2(+) NK cells suppressed viral replication in HLA-C*14:03(+) or HLA-C*12:02(+) cells to a significantly greater extent than did KIR2DL2(-) NK cells in vitro. Functional analysis showed that the binding between HIV-1-derived peptide and HLA-C*14:03 or HLA-C*12:02 influenced KIR2DL2(+) NK cell activity through reduced expression of the peptide-HLA (pHLA) complex on the cell surface (i.e., reduced KIR2DL2 ligand expression), rather than through reduced binding affinity of KIR2DL2 to the respective pHLA complexes. Thus, KIR2DL2/HLA-C*12:02 and KIR2DL2/HLA-C*14:03 compound genotypes have protective effects on control of HIV-1 through a mechanism involving KIR2DL2-mediated NK cell recognition of virusinfected cells, providing additional understanding of NK cells in HIV-1 infection.

DOI： 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.10.075

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The CD1d protein is a nonpolymorphic MHC class I-like protein that controls the activation of natural killer T (NKT) cells through the presentation of self- and foreign-lipid ligands, glycolipids, or phospholipids, leading to the secretion of various cytokines. The CD1d contains a large hydrophobic lipid binding pocket: the A' pocket of CD1d, which recognizes hydrophobic moieties of the ligands, such as long fatty acyl chains. Although lipid protein interactions typically rely on hydrophobic interactions between lipid chains and the hydrophobic sites of proteins, we showed that the small polar regions located deep inside the hydrophobic A' pocket could be used for the modulation of the lipid binding. A series of the ligands, alpha-galactosyl ceramide (alpha-GalCer) derivatives containing polar groups in the acyl chain, was synthesized, and the structure activity relationship studies demonstrated that simple modification from a methylene to an amide group in the long fatty acyl chain, when introduced at optimal positions, enhanced the CD1d recognition of the glycolipid ligands. Formation of hydrogen bonds between the amide group and the polar residues was supported by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and WaterMap calculations. The computational studies suggest that localized hydrating water molecules may play an important role in the ligand recognition. Here, the results showed that confined polar residues in the large hydrophobic lipid binding pockets of the proteins could be potential targets to modulate the affinity for its ligands.

DOI： 10.1021/acschembio.6b00674

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The authors wish to make the following change to their paper [1].[...].

DOI： 10.3390/v8110313

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

HLA-G is involved in maternal-fetal immune tolerance and is reported to be a natural tolerogenic molecule. Seven-spliced isoforms including dimeric and beta 2m-free forms have been identified. The major isoform, HLA-G1 (and its soluble type HLA-G5), binds to the inhibitory immune receptors, leukocyte immunoglobulin (Ig)-like receptor (LILR) B1 and LILRB2. We previously reported that HLA-G1 also binds to paired Ig-like receptor (PIR)-B, a mouse homolog of LILRBs, and had a significant immunosuppressive effect in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice. Although HLA-G2 and its soluble form HLA-G6 bind specifically to LILRB2, its functional characteristics are largely unknown. In this study, we report the significant immunosuppressive effect of HLA-G2 dimer in CIA mice. Surface plasmon resonance analysis revealed a specific interaction of HLA-G2 with PIR-B. CIA mice were administered HLA-G2 protein subcutaneously once in the left footpad and clinical severity was evaluated in a double-blind study. A single administration of HLA-G2 maintained a suppressive effect for over 1 month. These results suggested that the HLA-G2 protein might be a useful biopharmaceutical for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis by binding to inhibitory PIR-B. (C) 2016 American Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.humimm.2016.01.010

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The BacMam system uses modified insect viruses (baculoviruses) as vehicles to efficiently deliver genes for expression in mammalian cells. The technique can be widely applied to large-scale recombinant protein production with appropriate modifications, high-throughput screening platforms for cell-based assays, and the delivery of large genes. The silkworm system is often employed as a rapid and cost-effective approach for recombinant baculovirus generation. Here we have developed the novel BacMam system using silkworm baculovirus, and shown the successful expression of EGFP in mammalian cells. The transduction to mammalian cells via the BacMam system was improved by adding phosphate buffered saline and sodium butyrate to the culture medium and lowering the temperature after viral infection. This study provides an alternative gene delivery system for mammalian cells, which has various potential applications, including efficient native protein production and gene therapy. (C) 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.07.104

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Synthesis and Th1-immunostimulatory activity of alpha-galactosylceramide analogues bearing a halogen-containing or selenium-containing acyl chain
A novel series of CD1d ligand alpha-galactosylceramides (alpha-GalCers) were synthesized by incorporation of the heavy atoms Br and Se in the acyl chain backbone of alpha-galactosyl-N-cerotoylphytosphingosine. The synthetic analogues are potent CD1d ligands and stimulate mouse invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells to selectively enhance Th1 cytokine production. These synthetic analogues would be efficient X-ray crystallographic probes to disclose precise atomic positions of alkyl carbons and lipid-protein interactions in KRN7000/CD1d complexes. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bmc.2016.06.007

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Glioblastoma (GBM), one of the most malignant human cancers, frequently recurs despite multi-modal treatment with surgery and chemo/radiotherapies. GBM-initiating cells (GICs) are the likely cell-of-origin in recurrences, as they proliferate indefinitely, form tumors in vivo, and are resistant to chemo/radiotherapies. It is therefore crucial to find chemicals that specifically kill GICs. We established temozolomide (the standard medicine for GBM)-resistant GICs (GICRs) and used the cells for chemical screening. Here, we identified 1-(3-C-ethynyl-beta-D-ribopentofuranosyl) uracil (EUrd) as a selective drug for targeting GICRs. EUrd induced the death in GICRs more effectively than their parental GICs, while it was less toxic to normal neural stem cells. We demonstrate that the cytotoxic effect of EUrd on GICRs partly depended on the increased expression of uridine-cytidine kinase-like 1 (UCKL1) and the decreased one of 5'-nucleotidase cytosolic III (NT5C3), which regulate uridine-monophosphate synthesis positively and negatively respectively. Together, these findings suggest that EUrd can be used as a new therapeutic drug for GBM with the expression of surrogate markers UCKL1 and NT5C3.

DOI： 10.1002/stem.2380

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Globally eliminating measles using available vaccines is biologically feasible because the measles virus (MV) hemagglutinin (H) protein is antigenically stable. The H protein is responsible for receptor binding, and is the main target of neutralizing antibodies. The immunodominant epitope, known as the hemagglutinating and noose epitope, is located near the receptor-binding site (RBS). The RBS also contains an immunodominant epitope. Loss of receptor binding correlates with an escape from the neutralization by antibodies that target the epitope at RBS. Another neutralizing epitope is located near RBS and is shielded by an N-linked sugar in certain genotype strains. However, human sera from vaccinees and measles patients neutralized all MV strains with similar efficiencies, regardless of the N-linked sugar modification or mutations at these epitopes. Two other major epitopes exist at a distance from RBS. One has an unstructured flexible domain with a linear neutralizing epitope. When MV-H forms a tetramer (dimer of dimers), these epitopes may form the dimer-dimer interface, and one of the two epitopes may also interact with the F protein. The neutralization mechanisms of antibodies that recognize these epitopes may involve inhibiting the H-F interaction or blocking the fusion cascade after MV-H binds to its receptors.

DOI： 10.3390/v8080216

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Objective. Phosphatidylserine-dependent, also called aPS-PT, recognizes the phosphati dylserine-prothrombin complex, which is associated with APS. We have previously reported that aPS-PT induces tissue factor (TF) expression on monocytes through the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. However, the cell surface interaction between prothrombin and aPS-PT, which is involved in the activation of cell-signalling pathways, has remained unknown. The objective of this study was to identify membrane proteins involved in the binding of prothrombin and aPS-PT to monocyte surfaces as well as the induction of TF expression.
Methods. RAW264.7 cells with FLAG-tagged prothrombin were incubated and separated using affinity chromatography with anti-FLAG antibody-conjugated Sepharose beads. Immunopurified proteins were then analysed by an online nano-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The binding between prothrombin and the identified protein, ribophorin II (RPN2), was analysed by ELISA and surface plasmon resonance. To elucidate the role of RPN2 in TF expression, the TF mRNA level in RAW264.7 cells treated with RPN2 small interfering RNA was determined by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR).
Results. RPN2 was identified as a candidate molecule involved in the binding of prothrombin to the cell surface. The binding between prothrombin and RPN2 was confirmed by ELISA and surface plasmon resonance. RAW264.7 cells treated with RPN2 small interfering RNA showed significant reduction of the TF expression mediated by prothrombin and a mouse monoclonal aPS-PT.
Conclusion. We identified that RPN2 is one of the prothrombin-binding proteins on monocyte surfaces, suggesting that RPN2 is involved in the pathophysiology of thrombosis in patients with APS.

DOI： 10.1093/rheumatology/kew005

記述言語：英語  

Classical MHC molecules utilize their α1-α2 domains to display endogenous (self and nonself) peptides for antigen presentation to immune cells. However, over the past few decades many investigations have revealed a wide range of structural and functional variations of MHC superfamily members. Here we focus on the MHC-like proteins harboring distinct functions from those of the classical MHCs, such as Fc binding to transport IgG (FcRn), fatty acid homeostasis (ZAG), Fe ion metabolism (HFE), other immune responses (T proteins, M proteins, and ULBPs), and immune evasion of viral infection (UL18, UL142, m138, m144, m145, m152, m155, m157, etc.). These MHC-like proteins have basically lost the ability to present peptides, due to modulations of the typical antigen-binding groove. Instead, the surfaces have become receptor recognition sites. We further highlight the various tactics employed to elegantly control the physiological functions by using expanded and diversified protein surfaces, such as those generated by domain deletion and heavy sugar modification.

DOI： 10.1016/B978-0-12-374279-7.06020-3

記述言語：その他  

Binding affinity and biological activity evaluation of novel C-type lectin Mincle ligands

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Antibody-mediated molecular-targeted therapy for adult T-cell leukemia: recent progress and future challenges in the treatment of cancers.

記述言語：英語  

Numerous structural analyses (X-ray crystallography and NMR) of C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) have been performed, because CLRs are not only attractive as important molecules in immunity and infectious diseases but also as drug targets. In CLRs, high amino acid sequence similarity exists in the extracellular carbohydrate recognition domains (CRDs), which are responsible for ligand binding. However, recent functional analyses of CLRs implied that these molecules recognize a wide variety of ligands in addition to saccharides, including glycopeptides, glycolipids, and proteins. In this chapter, we focus on structural studies of CLRs. We first summarize the structural features conserved among the CRDs and then describe how each C-type lectin receptor elegantly achieves its distinct ligand specificity, by illustrating the structural aspects of several representative CLRs.

DOI： 10.1007/978-4-431-56015-9_12

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Background: Adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) is a CD4(+) T-cell neoplasm with a poor prognosis. A previous study has shown that there is a strong correlation between the secreted matricellular protein osteopontin (OPN) level and disease severity in ATL patients. Here, we investigated the role of OPN in ATL pathogenesis and the possible application of anti-OPN monoclonal antibody (mAb) for ATL immunotherapy in NOD/Shi-scid, IL-2Rg(null) (NOG) mice.
Results: Subcutaneous inoculation of ATL cell lines into NOG mice increased the plasma level of OPN, which significantly correlated with metastasis of the inoculated cells and survival time. Administration of an SVVYGLR motifrecognizing anti-OPN mAb resulted in inhibition not only of tumor growth but also of tumor invasion and metastasis. The number of fibroblast activating protein-positive fibroblasts was also reduced by this mAb. We then co-inoculated mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) isolated from wild-type (WT) or OPN knockout mice together with ATL-derived TL-OmI cells into the NOG mice. The mice co-inoculated with WT MEFs displayed a significant decrease in survival relative to those injected with TL-OmI cells alone and the absence of OPN in MEFs markedly improved the survival rate of TL-OmI-inoculated mice. In addition, tumor volume and metastasis were also reduced in the absence of OPN.
Conclusion: We showed that the xenograft NOG mice model can be a useful system for assessment of the physiological role of OPN in ATL pathogenesis. Using this xenograft model, we found that fibroblast-derived OPN was involved in tumor growth and metastasis, and that this tumor growth and metastasis was significantly suppressed by administration of the anti-OPN mAbs. Our findings will lead to a novel mAb-mediated immunotherapeutic strategy targeting against the interaction of OPN with integrins on the tumor of ATL patients.

DOI： 10.1186/s12977-015-0225-x

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Recent studies have revealed that cell competition can occur between normal and transformed epithelial cells; normal epithelial cells recognize the presence of the neighboring transformed cells and actively eliminate them from epithelial tissues. Here, we have established a brand-new high-throughput screening platform that targets cell competition. By using this platform, we have identified Rebeccamycin as a hit compound that specifically promotes elimination of RasV12-transformed cells from the epithelium, though after longer treatment it shows substantial cytotoxic effect against normal epithelial cells. Among several Rebeccamycin-derivative compounds, we have found that VC1-8 has least cytotoxicity against normal cells but shows the comparable effect on the elimination of transformed cells. This cell competition-promoting activity of VC1-8 is observed both in vitro and ex vivo. These data demonstrate that the cell competition-based screening is a promising tool for the establishment of a novel type of cancer preventive medicine.

DOI： 10.1038/srep15336

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

DOI： 10.1007/s10858-015-9979-7

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

FtsZ is an attractive target for antibiotic research because it is an essential bacterial cell division protein that polymerizes in a GTP-dependent manner. To find the seed chemical structure, we established a high-throughput, quantitative screening method combining fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy (FCCS) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR). As a new concept for the application of FCCS to polymerization-prone protein, Staphylococcus aureus FtsZ was fragmented into the N-terminal and C-terminal, which were fused with GFP and mCherry (red fluorescent protein), respectively. By this fragmentation, the GTP-dependent head-to-tail dimerization of each fluorescent labeled fragment of FtsZ could be observed, and the inhibitory processes of chemicals could be monitored by FCCS. In the first round of screening by FCCS, 28 candidates were quantitatively and statistically selected from 495 chemicals determined by in silico screening. Subsequently, in the second round of screening by FCCS, 71 candidates were also chosen from 888 chemicals selected via an in silico structural similarity search of the chemicals screened in the first round of screening. Moreover, the dissociation constants between the highest inhibitory chemicals and Staphylococcus aureus FtsZ were determined by SPR. Finally, by measuring the minimum inhibitory concentration, it was confirmed that the screened chemical had antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0130933

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Efficient DNA carriers are needed as a gene medication for curing brain disorders. In the present study, the function of a neutral lipid envelope-type nanoparticle (LNP) encapsulating pDNA was evaluated after intracerebroventricular administration. The lipid envelope was composed of a series of SS-cleavable and pH-activated lipid like materials (ssPalm) including myristic acid, vitamin A and vitamin E in the hydrophobic scaffold (LNPssPalmM, LNPssPalmA, LNPssPalmE, respectively). The LNPssPalmA and LNPssPalmE were extensively distributed in the corpus callosum, and then gene expression occurred mainly astrocytes in this region, while not in LNPssPalmM. The recombinant human ApoE3-dependent enhancement of the uptake into an astrocyte-derived cell line (KT-5) was observed in LNPssPalmA and LNPssPalmE. Thus, ApoE in the brain plays a key role in the cellular uptake of these particles by astrocytes, and this uptake is dependent on the structure of the hydrophobic scaffold. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2015.05.043

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Emerging evidence has revealed the pivotal roles of C-type lectin-like receptors (CTLRs) in the regulation of a wide range of immune responses. Human natural killer cell receptor-P1A (NKRP1A) is one of the CTLRs and recognizes another CTLR, lectin-like transcript 1 (LLT1) on target cells to control NK, NKT and Th17 cells. The structural basis for the NKRP1A-LLT1 interaction was limitedly understood. Here, we report the crystal structure of the ectodomain of LLT1. The plausible receptor-binding face of the C-type lectin-like domain is flat, and forms an extended -sheet. The residues of this face are relatively conserved with another CTLR, keratinocyte-associated C-type lectin, which binds to the CTLR member, NKp65. A LLT1-NKRP1A complex model, prepared using the crystal structures of LLT1 and the keratinocyte-associated C-type lectin-NKp65 complex, reasonably satisfies the charge consistency and the conformational complementarity to explain a previous mutagenesis study. Furthermore, crystal packing and analytical ultracentrifugation revealed dimer formation, which supports a complex model. Our results provide structural insights for understanding the binding modes and signal transduction mechanisms, which are likely to be conserved in the CTLR family, and for further rational drug design towards regulating the LLT1 function.

DOI： 10.1002/eji.201545509

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Mumps virus (MuV) infection induces formation of cytoplasmic inclusion bodies (IBs). Growing evidence indicates that IBs are the sites where RNA viruses synthesize their viral RNA. However, in the case of MuV infection, little is known about the viral and cellular compositions and biological functions of the IBs. In this study, pulldown purification and N-terminal amino acid sequencing revealed that stress-inducible heat shock protein 70 (Hsp72) was a binding partner of MuV phosphoprotein (P protein), which was an essential component of the IB formation. Immunofluorescence and immunoblotting analyses revealed that Hsp72 was colocalized with the P protein in the IBs, and its expression was increased during MuV infection. Knockdown of Hsp72 using small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) had little, if any, effect on viral propagation in cultured cells. Knockdown of Hsp72 caused accumulation of ubiquitinated P protein and delayed P protein degradation. These results show that Hsp72 is recruited to IBs and regulates the degradation of MuV P protein through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway.
IMPORTANCE
Formation of cytoplasmic inclusion bodies (IBs) is a common characteristic feature in mononegavirus infections. IBs are considered to be the sites of viral RNA replication and transcription. However, there have been few studies focused on host factors recruited to the IBs and their biological functions. Here, we identified stress-inducible heat shock protein 70 (Hsp72) as the first cellular partner of mumps virus (MuV) phosphoprotein (P protein), which is an essential component of the IBs and is involved in viral RNA replication/transcription. We found that the Hsp72 mobilized to the IBs promoted degradation of the MuV P protein through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Our data provide new insight into the role played by IBs in mononegavirus infection.

DOI： 10.1128/JVI.03343-14

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Interleukin (IL)-18 is a proinflammatory cytokine that belongs to the IL-1 family and plays an important role in inflammation. The uncontrolled release of this cytokine is associated with severe chronic inflammatory disease. IL-18 forms a signalling complex with the IL-18 receptor alpha (R alpha) and beta (R beta) chains at the plasma membrane, which induces multiple inflammatory cytokines. Here, we present a crystal structure of human IL-18 bound to the two receptor extracellular domains. Generally, the receptors' recognition mode for IL-18 is similar to IL-1 beta; however, certain notable differences were observed. The architecture of the IL-18 receptor second domain (D2) is unique among the other IL-1R family members, which presumably distinguishes them from the IL-1 receptors that exhibit a more promiscuous ligand recognition mode. The structures and associated biochemical and cellular data should aid in developing novel drugs to neutralize IL-18 activity.

DOI： 10.1038/ncomms6340

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

C-type lectin-like receptor 2 (CLEC-2) is a member of the C-type lectin (like) receptor (CLR) family that uses a Ca2+ binding domain to bind specific glycans. However, in this issue of Structure, Nagae and colleagues report on how the structures of CLEC-2 in complex with a glycopeptide podoplanin and a snake venom protein, rhodocytin, show a different mode of binding.

DOI： 10.1016/j.str.2014.11.001

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Factor C, a serine protease zymogen involved in innate immune responses in horseshoe crabs, is known to be autocatalytically activated on the surface of bacterial lipopolysaccharides, but the molecular mechanism of this activation remains unknown. In this study, we show that wild-type factor C expressed in HEK293S cells exhibits a lipopolysaccharide-induced activity equivalent to that of native factor C. Analysis of the N-terminal addition, deletion, or substitution mutants shows that the N-terminal Arg residue and the distance between the N terminus and the tripartite of lipopolysaccharide-binding site are essential factors for autocatalytic activation, and that the positive charge of the N terminus may interact with an acidic amino acid(s) of the molecule to convert the zymogen into an active form. Chemical cross-linking experiments indicate that the N terminus is required to form a complex of the factor C molecules in a sufficiently close vicinity to be chemically cross-linked on the surface of lipopolysaccharides. We propose a molecular mechanism of the autocatalytic activation of the protease zymogen on lipopolysaccharides functioning as a platform to induce specific protein-protein interaction between the factor C molecules.

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.M114.586933

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Protein kinase B (PKB) also known as Akt is involved in many signal transduction pathways. As alterations of the PKB pathway are found in a number of human malignancies, PKB is considered an important drug target for cancer therapy. However, production of sufficient amounts of active PKB for biochemical and structural studies is very costly because of the necessity of using a higher organism expression system to obtain phosphorylated PKB. Here, we report efficient production of active PKB alpha using the BmNPV bacmid expression system with silkworm larvae. Following direct injection of bacmid DNA, recombinant PKB alpha protein was highly expressed in the fat bodies of larvae, and could be purified using a GST-tag and then cleaved. A final yield of approximately 1 mg PKB alpha/20 larvae was recorded. Kinase assays showed that the recombinant PKB alpha possessed high phosphorylation activity. We further confirmed phosphorylation on the activation loop by mass spectrometric analysis. Our results indicate that the silkworm expression system is of value for preparation of active-form PKB alpha with phosphorylation on the activation loop. This efficient production of the active protein will facilitate further biochemical and structural studies and stimulate subsequent drug development.

DOI： 10.1038/srep06016

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Structural basis for simultaneous recognition of an O-glycan and its attached peptide of mucin family by immune receptor PILR alpha
Paired Ig-like type 2 receptor a (PILR alpha) recognizes a wide range of O-glycosylated mucin and related proteins to regulate broad immune responses. However, the molecular characteristics of these recognitions are largely unknown. Here we show that sialylated O-linked sugar T antigen (sTn) and its attached peptide region are both required for ligand recognition by PILR alpha. Furthermore, we determined the crystal structures of PILR alpha and its complex with an sTn and its attached peptide region. The structures show that PILR alpha exhibits large conformational change to recognize simultaneously both the sTn O-glycan and the compact peptide structure constrained by proline residues. Binding and functional assays support this binding mode. These findings provide significant insight into the binding motif and molecular mechanism (which is distinct from sugar-recognition receptors) by which O-glycosylated mucin proteins with sTn modifications are recognized in the immune system as well as during viral entry.

DOI： 10.1073/pnas.1324105111

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Proteolytic cleavage of the hemagglutinin (HA) protein is essential for influenza A virus (IAV) to acquire infectivity. This process is mediated by a host cell protease(s) in vivo. The type II transmembrane serine protease TMPRSS2 is expressed in the respiratory tract and is capable of activating a variety of respiratory viruses, including low-pathogenic (LP) IAVs possessing a single arginine residue at the cleavage site. Here we show that TMPRSS2 plays an essential role in the proteolytic activation of LP IAVs, including a recently emerged H7N9 subtype, in vivo. We generated TMPRSS2 knockout (KO) mice. The TMPRSS2 KO mice showed normal reproduction, development, and growth phenotypes. In TMPRSS2 KO mice infected with LP IAVs, cleavage of HA was severely impaired, and consequently, the majority of LP IAV progeny particles failed to gain infectivity, while the viruses were fully activated proteolytically in TMPRSS2(+/+) wild-type (WT) mice. Accordingly, in contrast to WT mice, TMPRSS2 KO mice were highly tolerant of challenge infection by LP IAVs (H1N1, H3N2, and H7N9) with >= 1,000 50% lethal doses (LD50) for WT mice. On the other hand, a high-pathogenic H5N1 subtype IAV possessing a multibasic cleavage site was successfully activated in the lungs of TMPRSS2 KO mice and killed these mice, as observed for WT mice. Our results demonstrate that recently emerged H7N9 as well as seasonal IAVs mainly use the specific protease TMPRSS2 for HA cleavage in vivo and, thus, that TMPRSS2 expression is essential for IAV replication in vivo.

DOI： 10.1128/JVI.03677-13

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The avirulence gene AVR-Pia of Magnaporthe oryzae, which induces a hypersensitive reaction in rice cultivars containing the resistance gene Pia, was expressed in Escherichia coli. AVR-Pia protein was collected as inclusion bodies, denatured, and refolded. Finally, recombinant AVR-Pia (rAVR-Pia) protein was purified by column chromatography. Infiltration of rAVR-Pia triggered cell browning in the leaves of rice cultivar Aichiasahi (Pia), with accumulation of H2O2 and induction of PR1a expression in rice. On the other hand, these reactions were not observed in Shin-2 (pia) leaves after the same treatment. This observation indicated that rAVR-Pia had the function of an avirulence protein. rAVR-Pia was used for immunization of a rabbit, and anti-AVR-Pia antiserum was prepared. The specificity of this antibody was appraised by detecting native AVR-Pia in the inoculated leaf sheath extract using Western blotting in combination with immunoprecipitation. Native AVR-Pia was successfully detected, and its molecular weight was estimated to be 7.4 kDa, indicating signal peptide cleavage. Additionally, secreted native AVR-Pia was quantified as 3.7 ng/g rice sheath.

DOI： 10.1080/09168451.2014.893186

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

NKG2D Triggers Cytotoxicity in Murine Epidermal gamma delta T Cells via PI3K-Dependent, Syk/ZAP70-Independent Signaling Pathway
Murine epidermal gamma delta T cells, known as dendritic epidermal T cells (DETCs), survey tissue stress through the invariant T-cell receptor (TCR) and non-clonotypic receptors such as NKG2D. NKG2D signaling via the DAP10-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway directly stimulates cytotoxicity in natural killer (NK) cells and costimulates CD8(+) T cells to augment TCR signals. In activated murine NK cells, NKG2D signals also via the DAP12-Syk/ZAP70 pathway that triggers both cytotoxicity and cytokine production. It remains controversial whether NKG2D on DETCs is a primary activating receptor or functions only as a costimulatory receptor, and signaling pathways initiated by NKG2D ligation in DETCs have not been analyzed. We show that stimulation of short-term DETC lines with recombinant NKG2D ligands triggers degranulation (exocytosis of cytotoxic granules) via the PI3K-dependent signaling pathway, but does not induce cytokine production or Syk/ZAP70 activation. Coengagement of TCR or Syk/ZAP70 signaling was not crucial for DETC-mediated killing of NKG2D ligand-expressing target cells. Thus, NKG2D can function as a coactivating stress receptor that directly triggers cytotoxicity in DETCs, at least after priming, via the PI3K-dependent, Syk/ZAP70-independent signaling pathway.

DOI： 10.1038/jid.2013.353

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Multistep catalysis of epoxide hydrolase/cyclase in the epoxide opening cascade is an intriguing issue in polyether biosynthesis. A pair of structurally homologous epoxide hydrolases was found in gene clusters of ionophore polyethers. In the epoxide opening reactions with MonBI and MonBII involved in monensin biosynthesis, we found that MonBII and catalytically inactive MonBI mutant catalyzed two-step reactions of bisepoxide substrate analogue to afford bicyclic product although MonBII alone catalyzed only the first cyclization. The X-ray crystal structure of MonBI dimers suggested the importance of the KSD motif in MonBI/MonBI interaction, which was further supported by gel filtration chromatography of wild-type MonBI and mutant MonBI. The involvement of the KSD motif in heterodimer formation was confirmed by in vitro assay. Direct evidence of MonBI/MonBII interaction was obtained by native mass spectrometry. Its dissociation constant was determined as 2.21 X 10(-5) M by surface plasmon resonance. Our results suggested the involvement of an allosteric regulation mechanism by MonBI/MonBII interaction in monensin skeletal construction.

DOI： 10.1021/cb4006485

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Jawless vertebrates represented by lampreys and hagfish use variable lymphocyte receptors (VLRs) as antigen receptors to mount adaptive immune responses. VLRs generate diversity that is comparable to immunoglobulins and T-cell receptors by a gene conversion-like mechanism, which is mediated by cytosine deaminases. Currently, three types of VLRs, VLRA, VLRB, and VLRC, have been identified in lampreys. Crystal structures of VLRA and VLRB in complex with antigens have been reported recently, but no structural information is available for VLRC. Here, we present the first crystal structure of VLRC from the Japanese lamprey (Lethenteron japonicum). Similar to VLRA and VLRB, VLRC forms a typical horseshoe-like solenoid structure with a variable concave surface. Strikingly, its N-terminal cap has a long loop with limited sequence variability that protrudes toward the concave surface, which is the putative antigen-binding surface. Furthermore, as predicted previously, its C-terminal cap lacks a highly variable protruding loop that plays an important role in antigen recognition by lamprey VLRA and VLRB. Recent work suggests that VLRC+ lymphocytes in jawless vertebrates might be akin to gamma delta T cells in jawed vertebrates. Structural features of lamprey VLRC described here suggest that it may recognize antigens in a unique manner.

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0085875

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Here, we show that human parainfluenza viruses and Sendai virus (SeV), like other respiratory viruses, use TMPRSS2 for their activation. The membrane fusion proteins of respiratory viruses often possess serine and glutamine residues at the P2 and P3 positions, respectively, but these residues were not critical for cleavage by TMPRSS2. However, mutations of these residues affected SeV growth in specific epithelial cell lines, suggesting the importance of these residues for SeV replication in epithelia.

DOI： 10.1128/JVI.01490-13

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Despite well-organized peptide-loading mechanisms within the endoplasmic reticulum, major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) molecules can be displayed on cell surfaces in peptide-free forms. Although these empty MHC-I (eMHC-I) molecules are presumably involved in physiological and pathological processes, little is known about their structures and functions due to their instability. Using bacterially expressed HLA-Cw*07:02 heavy chain and β2 microglobulin molecules, we successfully established an in vitro refolding method to prepare eMHC-I molecules in sufficient quantities for detailed structural analyses. NMR spectroscopy in conjunction with subunit-specific 15N-labeling techniques revealed that the peptide-binding domains and the adjacent regions were unstructured in the peptide-free form, while the remaining regions maintained their structural integrity. Consistent with our spectroscopic data, the eMHC-I complex could interact with leukocyte Ig-like receptor B1, but not with killer cell Ig-like receptor 2DL3. Thus, eMHC-I molecules have a mosaic nature in terms of their three-dimensional structure and binding to immunologically relevant molecules. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd.

DOI： 10.1016/j.molimm.2013.03.014

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Mincle [macrophage inducible Ca2+-dependent (C-type) lectin; CLEC4E] and MCL (macrophage C-type lectin; CLEC4D) are receptors for the cord factor TDM (trehalose-6,6'-dimycolate), a unique glycolipid of mycobacterial cell-surface components, and activate immune cells to confer adjuvant activity. Although it is known that receptor-TDM interactions require both sugar and lipid moieties of TDM, the mechanisms of glycolipid recognition by Mincle and MCL remain unclear. We here report the crystal structures of Mincle, MCL, and the Mincle-citric acid complex. The structures revealed that these receptors are capable of interacting with sugar in a Ca2+-dependent manner, as observed in other C-type lectins. However, Mincle and MCL uniquely possess shallow hydrophobic regions found adjacent to their putative sugar binding sites, which reasonably locate for recognition of fatty acid moieties of glycolipids. Functional studies using mutant receptors as well as glycolipid ligands support this deduced binding mode. These results give insight into the molecular mechanism of glycolipid recognition through C-type lectin receptors, which may provide clues to rational design for effective adjuvants.

DOI： 10.1073/pnas.1312649110

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Juvenile hormone esterase (JHE) is a carboxylesterase that has attracted great interest because of its critical role in regulating larval to adult transition in insects and other arthropods. Previously, we characterized an ecdysteroid sensitive and juvenile hormone non-susceptible juvenile hormone esterase related gene (SnJHER) in the corn stalk borer, Sesamia nonagrioides. SnJHER was rhythmically up-regulated close to each molt during the corn stalk borer's larval development. In this paper we attempted to functionally characterize SnJHER using several reverse genetics techniques. To functionally characterize SnJHER, we experimented with different dsRNA administration methods, including hemolymph, bacterial or baculovirus-mediated RNA interference, (RNAi). Our findings indicate the potential implication of SnJHER in the developmental programming of Sesamia nonagrioides. It is still unclear whether SnJHER is closely related to the authentic JHE gene, with different or similar biological functions.

DOI： 10.1371/journal.pone.0073834

記述言語：日本語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The genus Morbillivirus includes measles virus, canine distemper virus and rinderpest virus. These are highly contagious and exhibit high mortality. These viruses have the attachment glycoprotein, hemagglutinin (H), at the virus surface, which bind to signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM) and Nectin 4 as receptors for the entry. However, the molecular mechanism for this entry has been limitedly understood. Here we summarize the current topics, (1) newly identified receptor, Nectin 4, (2) crystal structures of H-receptor complexes and (3) detail biochemical studies of the H-F communication for the entry. These provide insight on the mechanism of morbillivirus entry event and furthermore drug developments.

DOI： 10.1248/yakushi.13-00001-5

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

HLA-G, a natural immunosuppressant present in the human placenta during pregnancy, prevents fetal destruction by the maternal immune system. The immunosuppressive effect of HLA-G is mediated by the immune cell inhibitory receptors, LILRB1 and LILRB2. HLA-G forms disulfide-linked dimers by natural oxidation, and the dimer associates with LILRB1/B2 much more strongly than the monomer. Furthermore, the dimer formation remarkably enhanced the LILRB-mediated signaling. In this report, we studied the in vivo immunosuppressive effect of the HLA-G dimer, using the collagen-induced arthritis model mouse. Mice were treated with the HLA-G monomer or dimer intracutaneously at the left foot joint, once or for 5 days, and the clinical severity was evaluated daily in a double-blind study. The HLA-G monomer and dimer both produced excellent anti-inflammatory effects with a single, local administration. Notably, as compared to the monomer, the dimer exhibited significant immunosuppressive effects at lower concentrations, which persisted for about two months. In accordance with this result, a binding study revealed that the HLA-G dimer binds PIR-B, the mouse homolog of the LILRBs, with higher affinity and avidity than the monomer. The HLA-G dimer is expected to be quite useful as an anti-rheumatoid arthritis agent, in small amounts with minimal side effects. (C) 2012 American Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.humimm.2012.11.060

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Here, we provide direct evidence that the receptor-binding site of measles virus (MV) hemagglutinin protein itself forms an effective conserved neutralizing epitope (CNE). Several receptor-interacting residues constitute the CNE. Thus, viral escape from neutralization has to be associated with loss of receptor-binding activity. Since interactions with both the signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM) and nectin4 are critical for MV pathogenesis, its escape, which results from loss of receptor-binding activity, should not occur in nature.

DOI： 10.1128/JVI.03029-12

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Pol283-8-specific, HLA-B*51:01-restricted, cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) play a critical role in the long-term control of HIV-1 infection. However, these CTLs select for the reverse transcriptase (RT) I135X escape mutation, which may be accumulating in circulating HIV-1 sequences. We investigated the selection of the I135X mutation by CTLs specific for the same epitope but restricted by HLA-B*52:01. We found that Pol283-8-specific, HLA-B*52:01-restricted CTLs were elicited predominantly in chronically HIV-1-infected individuals. These CTLs had a strong ability to suppress the replication of wild-type HIV-1, though this ability was weaker than that of HLA-B*51:01-restricted CTLs. The crystal structure of the HLA-B*52:01-Pol283-8 peptide complex provided clear evidence that HLA-B*52:01 presents the peptide similarly to HLA-B*51:01, ensuring the cross-presentation of this epitope by both alleles. Population level analyses revealed a strong association of HLA-B*51:01 with the I135T mutant and a relatively weaker association of HLA-B*52:01 with several I135X mutants in both Japanese and predominantly Caucasian cohorts. An in vitro viral suppression assay revealed that the HLA-B*52:01-restricted CTLs failed to suppress the replication of the I135X mutant viruses, indicating the selection of these mutants by the CTLs. These results suggest that the different pattern of I135X mutant selection may have resulted from the difference between these two CTLs in the ability to suppress HIV-1 replication.

DOI： 10.1128/JVI.02572-12

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Effective vaccination programs have dramatically reduced the number of measles-related deaths globally. Although all the available data suggest that measles eradication is biologically feasible, a structural and biochemical basis for the single serotype nature of measles virus (MV) remains to be provided. The hemagglutinin (H) protein, which binds to two discrete proteinaceous receptors, is the major neutralizing target. Monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) recognizing distinct epitopes on the H protein were characterized using recombinant MVs encoding the H gene from different MV genotypes. The effects of various mutations on neutralization by MAbs and virus fitness were also analyzed, identifying the location of five epitopes on the H protein structure. Our data in the present study demonstrated that the H protein of MV possesses at least two conserved effective neutralizing epitopes. One, which is a previously recognized epitope, is located near the receptor-binding site (RBS), and thus MAbs that recognize this epitope blocked the receptor binding of the H protein, whereas the other epitope is located at the position distant from the RBS. Thus, a MAb that recognizes this epitope did not inhibit the receptor binding of the H protein, rather interfered with the hemagglutinin-fusion (H-F) interaction. This epitope was suggested to play a key role for formation of a higher order of an H-F protein oligomeric structure. Our data also identified one nonconserved effective neutralizing epitope. The epitope has been masked by an N-linked sugar modification in some genotype MV strains. These data would contribute to our understanding of the antigenicity of MV and support the global elimination program of measles.

DOI： 10.1128/JVI.02033-12

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Recent outbreaks in monkeys have proven that canine distemper virus (CDV) causes diseases in a wide range of mammals. CDV uses SLAM and nectin4 as receptors to replicate in susceptible animals. Here, we show that human nectin4, but not human SLAM, is fully functional as a CDV receptor. The CDV Ac96I strain hardly replicated in nectin4-expressing human epithelial NCI-H358 cells, but readily adapted to grow in them. Unsurprisingly, no amino acid change in the H protein was required for the adaptation. The original Ac96I strain possessed a truncated C protein, and a subpopulation possessing the intact C protein was selected after growth in NCI-H358 cells. Other CDV strains possessing the intact C protein showed significantly higher growth abilities in NCI-H358 cells than the Ac96I strain with the truncated C protein. These findings suggest that the C protein is functional in human epithelial cells and critical for CDV replication in them. (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.viro1.2012.10.033

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

One of the most exciting new avenues of research to repair the injured spinal cord is to combine cells for implantation with scaffolds that protect the cells and release growth factors to improve their survival and promote host axonal regeneration. To realize this goal, we fabricated biodegradable, photocurable gelatin tubes and membranes for exploratory in vitro studies. Detailed methods are described for their fabrication with a high gelatin concentration. Gelatin membranes fabricated in the same way as tubes and photo-co-immobilized with rhBDNF or rhNT-3, with or without Schwann cells (SCs), showed an initial burst of neurotrophin release within 24 h, with release diminishing progressively for 21 days thereafter. SCs attained their typical bipolar conformation on membranes without neurotrophins but adhesion, alignment and proliferation were improved with neurotrophins, particularly rhBDNF. When dorsal root ganglion explants were cultured on membranes containing laminin and fibronectin plus both neurotrophins, neurite outgrowth was lengthier compared to combining one neurotrophin with laminin and fibronectin. Thus, these gelatin membranes allow SC survival and effectively release growth factors and harbor extracellular matrix components to improve cell survival and neurite growth. These scaffolds, based on the combination of cross-linked gelatin technology and incorporation of neurotrophins and extracellular matrix components, are promising candidates for spinal cord repair. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2012.07.028

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Synovial sarcoma is an obstinate, high-grade malignancy because of its modest responses to radiotherapy and chemotherapy; the identification of effective therapeutics for this sarcoma is therefore necessary. Inhibition of Src family kinases (SFKs) suppresses the proliferation of synovial sarcoma cells in vitro, as we have previously reported. In this study, to validate the efficacy of Src inhibition in vivo, we employed SU6656, which was originally identified as a specific SFK inhibitor. SU6656 treatment significantly impaired the growth of established, existing tumours formed by synovial sarcoma cells in mice. Tumour cell invasion into the surrounding tissues was also abolished by SU6656. It is noteworthy that SU6656 but not PP2 induced a defect in cleavage furrow formation during cytokinesis, resulting in G2/M accumulation and subsequent apoptosis. Intriguingly, SU6656 abrogated the catalytic activities of Aurora kinases and led to the down-regulation of phosphorylated histone H3 coincidently with p53 accumulation, as did the Aurora kinase inhibitor VX-680. Structural comparison indicated an extensive similarity between the catalytic domains of SFKs and Aurora kinases. The structural analysis also revealed the potential binding mode of SU6656 to the ATP-binding cleft of Aurora B via four hydrogen bonds. SU6656 prevented angiogenesis within the tumours by attenuating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production by tumour cells and the subsequent chemotaxis of endothelial cells; these effects were the result of the inhibition of SFKs but not Aurora kinases. Based on these results, we hereby report a novel property of SU6656 as a dual inhibitor of SFKs and Aurora kinases, the suppression of both of which effectively abrogates tumour development and the progression of synovial sarcoma in vivo. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.ejca.2011.12.028

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Baculoviral expression systems, including those of Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV), are used for recombinant protein production. Four B. mori-derived (BmN4, Bm5, Bmc140, and Bme21) cell lines were infected with recombinant BmNPV viruses expressing firefly luciferase or EGFP as reporters under the control of a viral polyhedrin promoter. Bme21 exhibited significantly higher (100-fold) luciferase activity than BmN4 and Bm5. With the EGFP reporter protein, Bme21 cells showed a marked increase in the ratio of EGFP-positive cells, reaching 90 % on day 4 post-infection, while Bm5 and BmN4 cells had a slow increase in the ratio of their EGFP-positive population. The viral titer in a supernatant of Bme21 cell culture increased faster than those of Bm5 and BmN4 cells. This susceptibility indicates that the Bme21 cell line is useful for large-scale protein expression using BmNPV.

DOI： 10.1007/s10529-012-0971-y

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Objective Spondylarthritides (SpA), including ankylosing spondylitis (AS), are common inflammatory rheumatic diseases that are strongly associated with positivity for the HLA class I allotype B27. HLAB27 normally forms complexes with beta 2-microglobulin (beta 2m) and peptide to form heterotrimers. However, an unusual characteristic of HLAB27 is its ability to form beta 2m-free heavy chain homodimers (HLAB272), which, unlike classic HLAB27, bind to killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor 3DL2 (KIR-3DL2). Binding of HLAB272 to KIR-3DL2positive CD4+ T and natural killer (NK) cells stimulates cell survival and modulates cytokine production. This study was undertaken to produce an antibody to HLAB272 in order to confirm its expression in SpA and to inhibit its proinflammatory properties. Methods We generated monoclonal antibodies by screening a human phage display library positively against B272 and negatively against B27 heterotrimers. Specificity was tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay, and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis of B272-expressing cell lines and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and synovial fluid mononuclear cells (SFMCs) from patients with SpA. Functional inhibition of KIR-3DL2B272 interactions was tested using cell lines and PBMCs from patients with SpA. Results Monoclonal antibody HD6 specifically recognized recombinant HLAB272 by ELISA and by SPR assay. HD6 bound to cell lines expressing B272. FACS revealed binding of HD6 to PBMCs and SFMCs from patients with AS but not from controls. HD6 inhibited both the binding of HLAB272 to KIR-3DL2 and the survival and proliferation of KIR-3DL2positive NK cells. Finally, HD6 inhibited production of the proinflammatory diseaseassociated cytokine interleukin-17 by PBMCs from patients with AS. Conclusion These results demonstrate that antibody HD6 has potential for use in both the investigation and the treatment of AS and other B27-associated spondylarthritides.

DOI： 10.1002/art.34538

記述言語：英語  

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Canine distemper virus (CDV) uses signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM), expressed on immune cells, as a receptor. However, epithelial and neural cells are also affected by CDV in vivo. Wild-type CDV strains showed efficient replication with syncytia in Vero cells expressing dog nectin4, and the infection was blocked by an anti-nectin4 antibody. In dogs with distemper, CDV antigen was preferentially detected in nectin4-positive neurons and epithelial cells, suggesting that nectin4 is an epithelial cell receptor for CDV and also involved in its neurovirulence.

DOI： 10.1128/JVI.00824-12

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

HLA-B27 Homodimers and Free H Chains Are Stronger Ligands for Leukocyte Ig-like Receptor B2 than Classical HLA Class I
Possession of HLA-B27 (B27) strongly predisposes to the development of spondyloarthritis. B27 forms classical heterotrimeric complexes with beta(2)-microglobulin (beta(2)m) and peptide and (beta 2m free) free H chain (FHC) forms including B27 dimers (termed B27(2)) at the cell surface. In this study, we characterize the interaction of HLA-B27 with LILR, leukocyte Ig-like receptor (LILR) B1 and LILRB2 immune receptors biophysically, biochemically, and by FACS staining. LILRB1 bound to B27 heterotrimers with a K-D of 5.3 +/- 1.5 mu M but did not bind B27 FHC. LILRB2 bound to B27(2) and B27 FHC and B27 heterotrimers with K(D)s of 2.5, 2.6, and 22 +/- 6 mu M, respectively. Domain exchange experiments showed that B27(2) bound to the two membrane distal Ig-like domains of LILRB2. In FACS staining experiments, B27 dimer protein and tetramers stained LILRB2 transfectants five times more strongly than B27 heterotrimers. Moreover, LILRB2Fc bound to dimeric and other B27 FHC forms on B27-expressing cell lines more strongly than other HLA-class 1 FHCs. B27-transfected cells expressing B27 dimers and FHC inhibited IL-2 production by LILRB2-expressing reporter cells to a greater extent than control HLA class I transfectants. B27 heterotrimers complexed with the L6M variant of the GAG KK10 epitope bound with a similar affinity to complexes with the wild-type KK10 epitope (with K(D)s of 15.0 +/- 0.8 and 16.0 +/- 2.0 mu M, respectively). Disulfide-dependent B27 H chain dimers and multimers are stronger ligands for LILRB2 than HLA class I heterotrimers and H chains. The stronger interaction of B27 dimers and FHC forms with LILRB2 compared with other HLA class I could play a role in spondyloarthritis pathogenesis. The Journal of Immunology, 2012, 188: 6184-6193.

DOI： 10.4049/jimmunol.1102711

記述言語：日本語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

[Structural basis for measles virus-receptor recognition and its functional implications for viral entry and vaccination].
Measles is one of the most contagious and devastating viral diseases. However, highly effective live vaccines have been successfully used for more than five decades. Recent structural studies of measles virus hemagglutinin and its complexes with receptors (the signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM, CD150) and CD46) have provided many insights into measles virus entry mechanism. Furthermore, the sugar shields that cover the large surface areas of the hemagglutinin have implications for effective measles virus vaccination. These studies should help strengthen current global efforts to control and eliminate measles worldwide.

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Blockade of interaction between NKG2D and an NKG2D ligand H60c delays wound repair

DOI： 10.4049/jimmunol.1102886

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Measles virus (MV), one of the most contagious agents, infects immune cells using the signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM) on the cell surface. A complex of SLAM and the attachment protein, hemagglutinin (MV-H), has remained elusive due to the intrinsic handling difficulty including glycosylation. Furthermore, crystals obtained of this complex are either nondiffracting or poorly-diffracting. To solve this problem, we designed a systematic approach using a combination of the following techniques; (1) a transient expression system in HEK293SGnTI(-) cells, (2) lysine methylation, (3) structure-guided mutagenesis directed at better crystal packing, (4) Endo H treatment, (5) single-chain formation for stable complex, and (6) floating-drop vapor diffusion. Using our approach, the receptor-binding head domain of MV-H covalently fused with SLAM was successfully crystallized and diffraction was improved from 4.5 angstrom to a final resolution of 3.15 angstrom. These combinational methods would be useful as crystallization strategies for complexes of glycoproteins and their receptors.

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Involvement of an NKG2D ligand H60c in epidermal dendritic T cell-mediated wound repair
Dendritic epidermal T cells (DETCs) found in mouse skin are NKG2D-positive γδ T cells involved in immune surveillance and wound repair. It is assumed that the interaction of an NKG2D receptor on DETCs and an MHC class I-like NKG2D ligand on keratinocytes activates DETCs, which then secrete cytokines promoting wound repair. However, direct evidence that DETC activation through NKG2D signaling promotes wound repair is not available. In the present study, we generated mAbs for an NKG2D ligand H60c previously suggested to be expressed specifically on skin keratinocytes. Local administration of H60c-specific mAb inhibited activation of DETCs and significantly delayed wound repair. Likewise, administration of NKG2D-specific mAb impaired wound repair to a similar extent. The delay in wound closure resulting from the blockade of the NKG2D pathway was comparable to that observed in γδ T cell-deficient mice. These results indicate that H60c/NKG2D interactions play a critical role in wound repair. Reassessment of binding affinities showed that H60c monomers bind to NKG2D with affinity (K d = 26 ± 3.2 nM) comparable to those of other high-affinity NKG2D ligands. H60c is transcribed not only in skin but also in tissues such as tongue and female reproductive tract known to contain epithelium-resident γδ T cells expressing invariant TCRs, suggesting a more general role for H60c in the maintenance of epithelial integrity. © 2012 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

DOI： 10.4049/jimmunol.1102886

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

CD160 was recently identified as a T cell coinhibitory molecule that interacts with the herpesvirus entry mediator (HVEM) on antigen-presenting cells to deliver a potent inhibitory signal to CD4(+) T cells. HVEM also binds to the coinhibitory receptor BTLA (B- and T-lymphocyte attenuator) and the costimulatory receptor LIGHT (which is homologous to lymphotoxins, exhibits inducible expression, and competes with the herpes simplex virus glycoprotein D for HVEM, a receptor expressed by T lymphocytes, or TNFSF14), thus regulating the CD160/BTLA/LIGHT/HVEM signaling pathway. To date, the detailed properties of the formation of these complexes, especially HVEM binding to the newly identified receptor CD160, and the relationship of CD160 with BTLA and LIGHT are still unclear. We performed N-terminal sequencing and a mass spectrometric analysis, which revealed that the extracellular domain of CD160 exists primarily in the monomeric form. The surface plasmon resonance analysis revealed that CD160 binds directly to the cysteine-rich domain 1-3 of HVEM with a similar affinity to, but slower dissociation rate than, that of BTLA. Notably, CD160 competed with BTLA for binding to HVEM; in contrast, LIGHT did not affect HVEM binding to either CD160 or BTLA. The results of a mutagenesis study of HVEM also suggest that the CD160 binding region on HVEM was slightly different from, but overlapped with, the BTLA binding site. Interestingly, an anti-CD160 antibody exhibiting antiangiogenic properties blocked CD160/HVEM binding. These results provide insight into the molecular architecture of the CD160/BTLA/LIGHT/HVEM signaling complex that regulates immune function. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.jmb.2011.09.018

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Human Th17 cells express high levels of CD161, a member of the killer cell lectin-like receptor (KLR) family (also referred to as NK receptor-P1A (NKRP1A) or KLRB1), as a representative marker. CD161 is also expressed on natural killer (NK) cells and NKT cells. Lectin-like transcript 1 (LLT1), another KLR family member, was recently identified as a ligand for CD161. This interaction may play pivotal roles in the immunomodulatory functions of Th17 cells as well as those of NK and NKT cells. However, the molecular basis for the interaction is poorly understood. Here we show that the extracellular domain of CD161 bound directly to LLT1 with a K(d) of 48 mu M and with the fast kinetics typical of cell-cell recognition receptors. Mutagenesis revealed that the similar membrane-distal beta-sheet and loop regions of both CD161 and LLT1 were utilized for the binding, and notably, these regions correspond to the ligand-binding sites for major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-recognizing KLRs. Furthermore, we found a pair of detrimental mutations for both molecules that restored the binding. These results reveal a new template model for the recognition mode between the KLR family members and provide insights into the molecular mechanism underlying Th17/NK/NKT-mediated immune responses.

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.M110.214254

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

A single-chain variable fragment antibody against herbicide, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D-scFv) has been successfully expressed in the hemolymph of silkworm larvae using a rapid Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) bacmid DNA system. Variable heavy- and light-chain domains were cloned directly from the cDNA of the hybridoma cell line 2C4 and assembled together with flexible peptide linker (Gly(4)Ser)(3) between two domains. The yield of functional 2,4-D-scFv after purification was 640 mu g per 30 ml of hemolymph, which is equivalent to 21.3 mg per liter of hemolymph. The characterization of 2,4-D-scFv using an indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (icELISA) revealed that it has wide cross-reactivities against 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (65.5%), 2,4-dichlorophenol (47.9%), and 2,4-dichlorobenzoic acid (26.0%), making it possible to apply 2,4-D-scFv to icELISA for detecting/determining 2,4-D and its metabolites. Judging from its cost and time requirements and its ease of handling, this BmNPV bacmid DNA expression system is more useful for expressing functional scFv than bacterial systems, which frequently require costly and time-consuming refolding.

DOI： 10.1007/s12010-011-9168-4

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Binding of class I MHC molecules (MHCI) to an inhibitory receptor, PIR-B, expressed on B cells and myeloid cells provides constitutive cellular inhibition, thus ensuring peripheral tolerance. Recent unexpected findings pointed to a novel inhibitory role of PIR-B in neuritere generation through binding to three axonal outgrowth inhibitors of myelin, including Nogo. Thus, it becomes interesting to determine whether the actions of the inhibitory myelin proteins and MHCI could coexist independently or be mutually exclusive as to the PIR-B-mediated immune and neural cell inhibition. Here, we present data supporting the competition of Nogo-and MHCI-mediated inhibition where they coexist. Kinetic analyses of Nogo and MHCI binding to the whole or a part of the recombinant PIR-B ectodomain revealed that PIR-B binds with higher affinity to Nogo than MHCI and that the MHCI binding only occurred with the N-terminal domains of PIR-B, whereas Nogo binding occurred with either the N- or C-terminal ectodomains. Importantly, kinetic tests indicated that the binding to PIR-B of Nogo and MHCI was competitive. Both endogenous and exogenous Nogo intensified the PIR-B-mediated suppression of interleukin-6 release from lipopolysaccharide-stimulated wildtype, but not PIR-B-deficient, cultured mast cells, indicating that PIR-B mediates Nogo-induced inhibition. Thus, we propose a novel mechanism by which PIR-B-mediated regulation is achieved differentially but competitively via MHCI and Nogo in cells of the immune system.

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.M110.157859

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Measles virus, a major cause of childhood morbidity and mortality worldwide, predominantly infects immune cells using signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM) as a cellular receptor. Here we present crystal structures of measles virus hemagglutinin (MV-H), the receptor-binding glycoprotein, in complex with SLAM. The MV-H head domain binds to a beta-sheet of the membrane-distal ectodomain of SLAM using the side of its beta-propeller fold. This is distinct from attachment proteins of other paramyxoviruses that bind receptors using the top of their beta-propeller. The structure provides templates for antiviral drug design, an explanation for the effectiveness of the measles virus vaccine, and a model of the homophilic SLAM-SLAM interaction involved in immune modulations. Notably, the crystal structures obtained show two forms of the MV-H-SLAM tetrameric assembly (dimer of dimers), which may have implications for the mechanism of fusion triggering.

DOI： 10.1038/nsmb.1969

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

A single-chain variable fragment (scFv) antibody against ginsenoside Re (G-Re) have been successfully expressed in the silkworm larvae using Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) bacmid DNA system. The baculovirus donor vector for expression of scFv against G-Re (GRe-scFv) was constructed to contain honeybee melittin signal sequence to accelerate secretion of the recombinant GRe-scFv into the haemolymph of silkworm larvae. Functional recombinant GRe-scFv was purified by cation exchange chromatography followed by immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography. The yield of purified GRe-scFv was 6.5 mg per 13 silkworm larvae, which is equivalent to 650 mg/l of the haemolymph, exhibiting extremely higher yield than that expressed in Escherichia coli (1.7 mg/l of culture medium). It was revealed from characterization that GRe-scFv retained similar characteristic of the parental monoclonal antibody (MAb) against G-Re (MAb-4G10), making it possible to develop indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (icELISA) for quality control of total ginsenosides in various ginsengs. The detectable range for calibration of G-Re by developed icELISA shows 0.05-10 mu g/ml. These results clearly suggested that the silkworm expression system is quite useful for the expression of functional scFv that frequently required time- and cost-consuming re-folding when it expressed in E. coli.

DOI： 10.1093/jb/mvq072

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Long-Term Control of HIV-1 in Hemophiliacs Carrying Slow-Progressing Allele HLA-B*5101
HLA-B*51 alleles are reported to be associated with slow disease progression to AIDS, but the mechanism underlying this association is still unclear. In the present study, we analyzed the effect of HLA-B*5101 on clinical outcome for Japanese hemophiliacs who had been infected with HIV-1 before 1985 and had been recruited in 1998 for this study. HLA-B*5101(+) hemophiliacs exhibited significantly slow progression. The analysis of HLA-B*5101-restricted HIV-1-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) responses to 4 HLA-B*-restricted epitopes in 10 antiretroviral-therapy (ART)-free HLA-B*5101(+) hemophiliacs showed that the frequency of Pol283-8-specific CD8(+) T cells was inversely correlated with the viral load, whereas the frequencies of CD8(+) T cells specific for 3 other epitopes were positively correlated with the viral load. The HLA-B*5101(+) hemophiliacs whose HIV-1 replication had been controlled for approximately 25 years had HIV-1 possessing the wild-type Pol283-8 sequence or the Pol283-8V mutant, which does not critically affect T-cell recognition, whereas other HLA-B*5101(+) hemophiliacs had HIV-1 with escape mutations in this epitope. The results suggest that the control of HIV-1 over approximately 25 years in HLA-B*5101-positive hemophiliacs is associated with a Pol283-8-specific CD8(+) T-cell response and that lack of control of HIV-1 is associated with the appearance of Pol283-8-specific escape mutants.

DOI： 10.1128/JVI.00171-10

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

We have reported that the differentiation-inducing factors (DIFs) DIF-1 and DIF-3, morphogens secreted from Dictyostelium discoideum, inhibit proliferation of several cancer cells via suppression of the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway. However, the target molecules of DIFs involved in the anti-proliferative effects are still unknown. In the present study, DIF-1 tethered resins were synthesized to explore the target molecules of DIFs, and mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase (mMDH) was identified as one of the target molecules. In the in vitro assay, DIF-1 and other analogs including 2-MIDIF-1, DIF-3, and 6-MIDIF-3 were found to be capable of binding to mMDH but not to cytoplasmic MDH. However, only DIF-1 and 2-MIDIF-1 inhibited the enzymatic activity of mMDH. The effects of DIF analogs on ATP content and cell proliferation were then analyzed using HeLa cells. DIF-1 and 2-MIDIF-1 were found to lower the ATP content and both chemicals inhibited HeLa cell proliferation, suggesting that inhibition of mMDH activity affected cell energy production, probably leading to the inhibition of proliferation. These results suggest that the inhibition of mMDH activity by DIF-1 and 2-MIDIF-1 could be one of the mechanisms to induce anti-proliferative effects, independent of the inhibition of the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway.

DOI： 10.1254/jphs.09348FP

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Many recombinant proteins have been successfully produced in silkworm larvae or pupae and used for academic and industrial purposes. Several recombinant proteins produced by silkworms have already been commercialized. However, construction of a recombinant baculovirus containing a gene of interest requires tedious and troublesome steps and takes a long time (3-6 months). The recent development of a bacmid, Escherichia coli and Bombyx mori shuttle vector, has eliminated the conventional tedious procedures required to identify and isolate recombinant viruses. Several technical improvements, including a cysteine protease or chitinase deletion bacmid and chaperone-assisted expression and coexpression, have led to significantly increased protein yields and reduced costs for large-scale production. Terminal N-acetyl glucosamine and galactose residues were found in the N-glycan structures produced by silkworms, which are different from those generated by insect cells. Genomic elucidation of silkworm has opened a new chapter in utilization of silkworm. Transgenic silkworm technology provides a stable production of recombinant protein. Baculovirus surface display expression is one of the low-cost approaches toward silkworm larvae-derived recombinant subunit vaccines. The expression of pharmaceutically relevant proteins, including cell/viral surface proteins, membrane proteins, and guanine nucleotide-binding protein (G protein) coupled receptors, using silkworm larvae or cocoons has become very attractive. Silkworm biotechnology is an innovative and easy approach to achieve high protein expression levels and is a very promising platform technology in the field of life science. Like the "Silkroad," we expect that the "Bioroad" from Asia to Europe will be established by the silkworm expression system.

DOI： 10.1007/s00253-009-2267-2

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

In the catalysis of sugar hydrolysis by hen egg-white lysozyme, Asp52 is thought to stabilize the reaction intermediate. This residue is involved in the well-ordered hydrogen bonding network including Asn46, Asp48, Ser50 and Asn59 on the anti-parallel -sheet, designated as a platform, on which the substrate sugar sits. To reveal the role of this hydrogen bonding network in the hydrolysis, we characterized Asn59 mutants by biochemical and crystallographic studies. Surprisingly, the introduction of only a methylene group by the Asn59Gln mutation markedly reduced the bacteriolytic activity and abolished the hydrolytic activity towards the synthetic substrate, PNP-(GlcNAc)(5). A similar result was also obtained with the Asn59Asp mutant. The crystal structure of the Asn59Asp mutant in complex with the substrate analogue revealed that, as in the wild-type, the (GlcNAc)(3) was bound in the ABC subsites. The reduced activity would be caused by subtle changes in the side-chain orientations as well as the electrostatic characteristics of Asp59, resulting in the rearrangement of the hydrogen bonding network of the platform. These results suggest that the precise locations of these platform residues, maintained by the well-ordered hydrogen bonding network, are crucial for efficient hydrolysis.

DOI： 10.1093/jb/mvp110

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Molecular Basis for E-cadherin Recognition by Killer Cell Lectin-like Receptor G1 (KLRG1)
The killer cell lectin-like receptor G1, KLRG1, is a cell surface receptor expressed on subsets of natural killer (NK) cells and T cells. KLRG1 was recently found to recognize E-cadherin and thus inhibit immune responses by regulating the effector function and the developmental processes of NK and T cells. E-cadherin is expressed on epithelial cells and exhibits Ca(2+)-dependent homophilic interactions that contribute to cell-cell junctions. However, the mechanism underlying the molecular recognition of KLRG1 by E-cadherin remains unclear. Here, we report structural, binding, and functional analyses of this interaction using multiple methods. Surface plasmon resonance demonstrated that KLRG1 binds the E-cadherin N-terminal domains 1 and 2 with low affinity (K(d) similar to 7-12 mu M), typical of cell-cell recognition receptors. NMR binding studies showed that only a limited N-terminal region of E-cadherin, comprising the homodimer interface, exhibited spectrum perturbation upon KLRG1 complex formation. It was confirmed by binding studies using a series of E-cadherin mutants. Furthermore, killing assays using KLRG1(+)NK cells and reporter cell assays demonstrated the functional significance of the N-terminal region of E-cadherin. These results suggest that KLRG1 recognizes the N-terminal homodimeric interface of domain 1 of E-cadherin and binds only the monomeric form of E-cadherin to inhibit the immune response. This raises the possibility that KLRG1 detects monomeric E-cadherin at exposed cell surfaces to control the activation threshold of NK and T cells.

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.M109.038802

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Immune cell surface receptors are directly involved in human diseases, and thus represent major drug targets. However, it is generally difficult to obtain sufficient amounts of these receptors for biochemical and structural studies because they often require posttranslational modifications, especially sugar modification. Recently, we have established a bacmid expression system for the baculovirus BmNPV, which directly infects silkworms, an attractive host for the large-scale production of recombinant sugar-modified proteins. Here we produced the human immune cell surface receptor, killer cell Ig-like receptor 2DL1 (KIR2DL1), by using the BmNPV bacmid expression system, in silkworms. By the direct injection of the bacmid DNA, the recombinant KIR2DL1 protein was efficiently expressed, secreted into body fluids, and purified by Ni(2+) affinity column chromatography. We further optimized the expression conditions, and the final yield was 0.2mg/larva. The sugar profiling revealed that the N-linked sugars of the purified protein comprised very few components, two paucimannose-type oligosaccharides, Manalpha1-6Manbeta1-4GlcNAcbeta1-4GlcNAc and Manalpha1-6Manbeta1-4GlcNAcbeta1-4(Fucalpha1-6)GlcNAc. This revealed that the protein product was much more homogeneous than the complex-sugar type product obtained by mammalian cell expression. The surface plasmon resonance analysis demonstrated that the purified KIR2DL1 protein exhibited specific binding to the HLA-Cw4 ligand. Moreover, the CD spectrum showed the proper secondary structure. These results clearly suggested that the silkworm expression system is quite useful for the expression of cell surface receptors that require posttranslational modifications, as well as for their structural and binding studies, due to the relatively homogeneous N-linked sugar modifications.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbrc.2009.07.065

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) is a non-classical HLA class I molecule, which was first discovered in 1987 by Geraghty and colleagues [1]. While classical HLA class I molecules are expressed on all nucleated cells, the expression of the HLA-G molecule is highly tissue-restricted, such as to placental trophoblast cells. HLA-G binds inhibitory receptors such as leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptors B1 (LILRB1/ILT2/CD85j) and LILRB2 (ILT4/CD85d), which are widely expressed on immune cells, to suppress a broad range of immune responses [2-4]. Thus, the expression of HLA-G in placenta protects the fetus from the maternal immune system. On the other hand, emerging studies have shown the relevance of the HLA-G molecule in pathologic conditions, such as transplantation rejection, autoimmunity, and cancer.
HLA-G has other unique characteristics, in contrast with classical HLA molecules, including the existence of various forms of HLA-G: several splice variants, subunit-deficient conformations, homodimers, and their combinations have been found [5]. In this review, we highlight the molecular basis for the tolerogenic ability of the HLA-G molecule, especially by LILR recognition of various forms of HLA-G. We also discuss the potential clinical applications of HLA-G molecules.

DOI： 10.2174/138161209789105153

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Guanine nucleotide-binding protein (G protein) coupled receptors (GPCRs) are frequently expressed by a baculovirus expression vector system (BEVS). We recently established a novel BEVS Using the bacmid system of Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV), which is directly applicable for protein expression in silkworms. Here, we report the first example of GPCR expression in silkworms by the simple injection of BmNPV bacmid DNA. Human nociceptin receptor, an inhibitory GPCR, and its fusion protein with inhibitory G protein alpha Subunit (G(i)alpha) were both successfully expressed in the fat bodies of silkworm larvae as well as in the BmNPV viral fraction. Its yield was much higher than that from Sf9 cells. The microsomal fractions including the nociceptin receptor fusion, which are easily prepared by only centrifugation steps, exhibited [(35)S]GTP gamma S-binding activity upon specific stimulation by nociceptin. Therefore, this rapid method is easy-to-use and has a high expression level, and thus will be an important tool for human GPCR production. (C) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbrc.2009.05.063

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) is a nonclassical MHC class I (MHCI) molecule that is expressed mainly on placenta trophoblast cells. Leukocyte Ig-like receptor B2 (LILRB2) is a human inhibitory immune receptor that recognizes HLA-G with a higher affinity than any other MHCI although this interaction is only in the mu M range. The interaction between HLA-G and LILRB2 seems to play a dominant role in the escape of the fetus from the maternal immune response. Here we report the crystallization and x-ray analysis of the LILRB2/HLA-G complex. The extracellular domains of HLA-G and LILRB2 were expressed in Escherichia coli, refolded and purified. The initial crystallization trials using novel PEG-based screening sets provided crystals of the LILRB2/HLA-G complex with 40-50% PEG400 as the precipitant. These crystals belong to space group P3(1)21 (a=b=81.4 angstrom, c=186.7 angstrom, gamma=120 degrees). Dehydration of the crystals by soaking them in a solution containing a higher concentration of PEG400 dramatically improved the resolution and also the mosaicity.

DOI： 10.2174/092986609787848108

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Objectives: The HIV-1 Nef protein selectively downregulates human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A and HLA-B but not HLA-C molecules on the Surface of infected cells. This allows HIV-infected cells to evade recognition by most cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and natural killer (NK) cells. We investigated the recognition of an HLA-Cw4-restricted HIV-1 gp120 epitope SFNCGGEFF (SF9) and its variant SFNCGGEFL (SL9) by T cells and NK receptors.
Design and method: Recognition of HIV-1 gp120 peptides (SF9 and SL9) by T-cell clones was measured by staining with HLA-Cw4-peptide tetrameric complexes and cytolytic assays using target cell pulsed with either peptides. KIR2DL1 binding to these two peptides was measured using surface plasmon resonance and tetramer staining of an NK cell line.
Result: CTLs could recognize SF9 better than the variant SL9, as shown by both tetramer staining and cytolytic assays. Intriguingly, an HLA-Cw4 tetramer folded with the 'escape' variant SL9 could bind to KIR2DL1 on NK cell lines with higher affinity than HLA-Cw4-SF9. The binding of KIR2DL1 to its ligand results in inhibition of NK cell function. Our results indicate that the HIV-1 gp120 variant peptide SL9 could potentially escape both from NK cell and CTL recognition by increasing its affinity for KIR2DL1 binding.
Conclusion: These data suggest that HIV-1 can acquire mutations that are capable of escaping from both CTL and NK cell recognition, a phenomenon we have termed 'double escape'. (C) 2009 Wolters Kluwer Health vertical bar Lippincott Williams & Wilkins

DOI： 10.1097/QAD.0b013e32831fb55a

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The recombinant protein expression by Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) infecting silkworm larvae or pupae may endow us with a potent system for the production of large eukaryotic proteins. However, the screening of silkworm strains ideally suited to this method has scarcely been conducted. In the present study, we injected recombinant BmNPV containing a reporter gene, luciferase or DsRed, into hemocoel of fifth instar larvae of selected 12 silkworm strains. Among them, the strain d17 is found to be the highest in reporter expression from the intrinsic polyhedrin promoter of Autographa californica NPV or the silkworm actin A3 promoter. These results suggest that the d17 strain is highly permissive for BmNPV replication and is the most likely candidate of a "factory" for large-scale expression using the BmNPV bacmid system.

DOI： 10.1007/s12033-008-9074-3

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Serotriflin, a CRISP family protein with binding affinity for small serum protein-2 in snake serum.
Habu (Trimeresurus flavoviridis) serum contains 3 small serum proteins (SSP-1, SSP-2, and SSP-3) with molecular masses of 6.5 to 10 kDa. Gel filtration analysis showed that all the SSPs exist in high molecular mass forms of approximately 60 kDa in the serum. Ultrafiltration of Habu serum showed that SSPs dissociated from the complex below a pH of 4. An SSP-binding protein was purified from Habu serum by gel filtration, ion exchange, and reverse-phase HPLC. N-terminal sequencing yielded a 39-amino acid sequence, similar to the N-terminal region of triflin, which is a snake venom-derived Ca2+ channel blocker that suppresses smooth muscle contraction. The amino acid sequence of this protein, termed serotriflin, was established by peptide analysis and cDNA cloning. Serotriflin is a glycosylated protein and consists of 221 amino acids. Among the 3 SSPs, only SSP-2 formed a noncovalent complex with serotriflin. It was bound to triflin and serotriflin with high affinity, as evidenced by surface plasmon resonance. SSP-2 is considered to be a protein that prevents self injury by accidental leaking of venom into the blood.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbapap.2007.12.010

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptors (LILRs) are inhibitory, stimulatory or soluble receptors encoded within the leukocyte receptor complex. Some LILRs are extensively polymorphic, and exhibit evidence for balancing selection and association with disease susceptibility. LILRA2 (LIR7/ILT1) is an activating receptor highly expressed in inflammatory tissues, and is involved in granulocyte and macrophage activation. In this study, we examined the association of LILRA2 and adjacently located LILRA1 with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis ( RA) and microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). Polymorphism screening detected a LILRA2 SNP ( rs2241524 G > A) that disrupts splice acceptor site of intron 6. Case-control association studies on 273 Japanese SLE, 296 RA, 50 MPA and 284 healthy individuals revealed increase of genotype A/A in SLE (12.1%, odds ratio ( OR) 1.82, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02-3.24, P=0.041) and in MPA (16.0%, OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.07-5.96, P=0.049) compared with healthy individuals (7.0%). The risk allele caused an activation of a cryptic splice acceptor site that would lead to a novel LILRA2 isoform lacking three amino acids in the linker region (Delta 419-421). Flow cytometry indicated that this isoform was expressed on the surface of monocytes. These findings suggested that LILRA2 Delta 419-421 isoform encoded by the splice site SNP may play a role in SLE and MPA.

DOI： 10.1038/gene.2008.5

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Biophysical characterization of O-glycosylated CD99 recognition by paired ig-like type 2 receptors
Paired Ig-like type 2 receptors ( PILRs) are one of the paired receptor families, which consist of two functionally opposite members, inhibitory ( PILR alpha) and activating ( PILR beta) receptors. PILRs are widely expressed in immune cells and recognize the sialylated O-glycosylated ligand CD99, which is expressed on activated T cells, to regulate immune responses. To date, their biophysical properties have not yet been examined. Here we report the affinity, kinetic, and thermodynamic analyses of PILR-CD99 interactions using surface plasmon resonance ( SPR) together with site-directed mutagenesis. The SPR analysis clearly demonstrated that inhibitory PILR alpha can bind to CD99 with low affinity ( K-d similar to 2.2 mu M), but activating PILR beta binds with similar to 40 times lower affinity ( K-d similar to 85 mu M). In addition to our previous mutagenesis study ( Wang, J., Shiratori, I., Saito, T., Lanier, L. L., and Arase, H. ( 2008) J. Immunol. 180, 1686 - 1693), the SPR analysis showed that PILR alpha can bind to each Ala mutant of the two CD99 O-glycosylated sites ( Thr-45 and Thr-50) with similar binding affinity to wild-type CD99. This indicated that both residues act as independent and equivalent PILR alpha binding sites, consistent with the highly flexible structure of CD99. On the other hand, it is further confirmed that PILR beta can bind the T50A mutant, but not the T45A mutant, indicating a recognition difference between PILR alpha and PILR beta. Kinetic studies demonstrated that the PILR-CD99 interactions show fast dissociation rates, typical of cell-cell recognition receptors. Thermodynamic analyses revealed that the PILR alpha-CD99 interaction is enthalpically driven with a large entropy loss (-T Delta S = 8.9 kcal.mol(-1)), suggesting the reduction of flexibility upon complex formation. This is in contrast to the entropically driven binding of selectins to sugar-modified ligands involved in leukocyte rolling and infiltration, which may reflect their functional differences.

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.M709793200

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The interaction of measles virus with its receptor signaling lymphocytic activation molecule (SLAM) controls cell entry and governs tropism. We predicted potential interface areas of the measles virus attachment protein hemagglutinin to begin the investigation. We then assessed the relevance of individual amino acids located in these areas for SLAM-binding and SLAM-dependent membrane fusion, as measured by surface plasmon resonance and receptor-specific fusion assays, respectively. These studies identified one hemagglutinin protein residue, isoleucine 194, which is essential for primary binding. The crystal structure of the hemagglutinin-protein localizes Ile-194 at the interface of propeller blades 5 and 6, and our data indicate that a small aliphatic side chain of residue 194 stabilizes a protein conformation conducive to binding. In contrast, a quartet of residues previously shown to sustain SLAM-dependent fusion is not involved in binding. Instead, our data prove that after binding, this quartet of residues on propeller blade 5 conducts conformational changes that are receptor-specific. Our study sets a structure-based stage for understanding how the SLAM-elicited conformational changes travel through the H-protein ectodomain before triggering fusion protein unfolding and membrane fusion.

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.M800896200

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Measles virus (MV) enters cells by binding to the signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (also called CD150) on the cell surface, and thus shows the lymphotropism and immunosuppressive effects. The head domain (residues Asp(149) to Arg(617)) of the MV hemagglutinin (MV-H), the attachment protein, was produced using a transient expression system in HEK293T cells. The purified MV-H protein was heterogeneous because of a variety of complex-sugar modifications. The complex-sugar-type MV-H was crystallized successfully, and the crystals belonged to the space group P41212 with the unit cell dimension of a = b = 134 angstrom, c = 100 angstrom, but diffracted only to 3.0 A resolution. MV-H was also expressed in HEK293SGnTI(-) cells lacking the N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase I activity, which render N-linked glycans of the proteins restricted and homogeneous, producing the oligomannose, Man(5)GlcNAc(2). The native and selenomethionyl derivative proteins of the oligomannose-type MV-H were crystallized, and the native crystals well diffracted to 2.6 angstrom resolution. Thus, homogeneous sugar modification may be useful for improved crystallization of heavily sugar-modified viral envelope proteins. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.jviromet.2008.01.008

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Habu (Trimeresurus flavoviridis) serum contains 3 small serum proteins (SSP-1, SSP-2, and SSP-3) with molecular masses of 6.5 to 10 kDa. Gel filtration analysis showed that all the SSPs exist in high molecular mass forms of approximately 60 kDa in the serum. Ultrafiltration of Habu serum showed that SSPs dissociated from the complex below a pH of 4. An SSP-binding protein was purified from Habit serum by gel filtration, ion exchange, and reverse-phase HPLC. N-terminal sequencing yielded a 39-amino acid sequence, similar to the N-terminal region of triflin, which is a snake venom-derived Ca2+ channel blocker that suppresses smooth muscle contraction. The amino acid sequence of this protein, termed serotriflin, was established by peptide analysis and cDNA cloning. Serotriflin is a glycosylated protein and consists of 221 amino acids. Among the 3 SSPs, only SSP-2 formed a noncovalent complex with scrotriflin. It was bound to triflin and scrotriflin with high affinity, as evidenced by surface plasmon resonance. SSP-2 is considered to be a protein that prevents self injury by accidental leaking of venom into the blood. (0 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbapap.2007.12.010

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

We previously identified a multisubunit complex (CENP-H/I complex) in kinetochores from human and chicken cells. We showed that the CENP-H/I complex is divided into three functional classes. In the present study, we investigated CENP-O class proteins, which include CENP-O, -P, -Q, -R, and -50 (U). We created chicken DT40 cell knockouts of each of these proteins, and we found that all knockout lines were viable, but that they showed slow proliferation and mitotic defects. Kinetochore localization of CENP-O, -P, -Q, and -50 was interdependent, but kinetochore localization of these proteins was observed in CENP-R -deficient cells. A coexpression assay in bacteria showed that CENP-O, -P, -Q, and -50 proteins form a stable complex that can associate with CENP-R. Phenotype analysis of knockout cells showed that all proteins except for CENP-R were required for recovery from spindle damage, and phosphorylation of CENP-50 was essential for recovery from spindle damage. We also found that treatment with the proteasome inhibitor MG132 partially rescued the severe mitotic phenotype observed in response to release from nocodazole block in CENP-50-deficient cells. This suggests that CENP-O class proteins are involved in the prevention of premature sister chromatid separation during recovery from spindle damage.

DOI： 10.1091/mbc.E07-06-0556

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

H60, originally described as a dominant minor histocompatibility Ag, is an MHC class I-like molecule that serves as a ligand for the NKG2D receptor. In the present study, we identified two novel mouse chromosome 10-encoded NKG2D ligands structurally resembling H60. These ligands, which we named H60b and H60c, encode MHC class I-like molecules with two extracellular domains. Whereas H60b has a transmembrane region, H60c is a GPI-anchored protein. Recombinant soluble H60b and H60c proteins bound to NKG2D with affinities typical of cell-cell recognition receptors (K(d) = 310 nM for H60b and K(d) = 8.7 mu M for H60c). Furthermore, expression of H60b or H60c rendered Ba/F3 cells susceptible to lysis by NK cells, thereby establishing H60b and H60c as functional ligands for NKG2D. H60b and H60c transcripts were detected only at low levels in tissues of healthy adult mice. Whereas H60b transcripts were detectable in various tissues, H60c transcripts were detected mainly in the skin. Infection of mouse embryonic fibroblasts with murine cytomegalovirus induced expression of H60b, but not H60c or the previously known H60 gene, indicating that transcriptional activation of the three types of H60 genes is differentially regulated. The present study adds two new members to the current list of NKG2D ligands.

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Structure-guided identification of a new catalytic motif of oligosaccharyltransferase
Asn-glycosylation is widespread not only in eukaryotes but also in archaea and some eubacteria. Oligosaccharyltransferase (OST) catalyzes the co-translational transfer of an oligosaccharide from a lipid donor to an asparagine residue in nascent polypeptide chains. Here, we report that a thermophilic archaeon, Pyrococcus furiosus OST is composed of the STT3 protein alone, and catalyzes the transfer of a heptasaccharide, containing one hexouronate and two pentose residues, onto peptides in an Asn-X-Thr/ Ser-motif-dependent manner. We also determined the 2.7-angstrom resolution crystal structure of the C-terminal soluble domain of Pyrococcus STT3. The structure-based multiple sequence alignment revealed a new motif, DxxK, which is adjacent to the well-conserved WWDYG motif in the tertiary structure. The mutagenesis of the DK motif residues in yeast STT3 revealed the essential role of the motif in the catalytic activity. The function of this motif may be related to the binding of the pyrophosphate group of lipid-linked oligosaccharide donors through a transiently bound cation. Our structure provides the first structural insights into the formation of the oligosaccharide-asparagine bond.

DOI： 10.1038/sj.emboj.7601940

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Human paired immunoglobulin-like (Ig-like) type 2 receptor alpha (PILR alpha) is a type I membrane protein that is mainly expressed in immune-related cells such as monocytes, granulocytes and dendritic cells. PILR alpha can suppress the functions of such immune cells because it has the immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif (ITIM) in the intracellular region, which recruits the phosphatase Src homology-2 (SH2) domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 2 (SHP-2) to inhibit phophorylations induced by activation signals. The extracellular region of human PILR alpha comprises one immunoglobulin superfamily V-set domain and a stalk region. The V-set domain (residues 13-131) of human PILR alpha was overexpressed in Escherichia coli as inclusion bodies, refolded by rapid dilution and purified. The PILR alpha protein was successfully crystallized at 293 K using the sitting-drop vapour-diffusion method. The crystals diffracted to 1.3 angstrom resolution at SPring-8 BL41XU; they belong to space group P2(1)2(1)2(1), with unit-cell parameters a = 40.4, b = 45.0, c = 56.9 angstrom, and contain one molecule per asymmetric unit.

DOI： 10.1107/S1744309107065384

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Measles still remains a major cause of childhood morbidity and mortality worldwide. Measles virus (MV) vaccines are highly successful, but the mechanism underlying their efficacy has been unclear. Here we report the crystal structure of the MV attachment protein, hemagglutinin, responsible for MV entry. The receptor-binding head domain exhibits a cubic-shaped beta-propeller structure and forms a homodimer. N-linked sugars appear to mask the broad regions and cause the two molecules forming the dimer to tilt oppositely toward the horizontal plane. Accordingly, residues of the putative receptor-binding site, highly conserved among MV strains, are strategically positioned in the unshielded area of the protein. These conserved residues also serve as epitopes for neutralizing antibodies, ensuring the serological monotype, a basis for effective MV vaccines. Our findings suggest that sugar moieties in the MV hemagglutinin critically modulate virus-receptor interaction as well as antiviral antibody responses, differently from sugars of the HIV gp120, which allow for immune evasion.

DOI： 10.1073/pnas.0707830104

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Tom20 recognizes mitochondrial presequences through dynamic equilibrium among multiple bound states
Most mitochondrial proteins are synthesized in the cytosol and imported into mitochondria. The N-terminal presequences of mitochondrial-precursor proteins contain a diverse consensus motif (phi chi chi phi phi, phi is hydrophobic and chi is any amino acid), which is recognized by the Tom20 protein on the mitochondrial surface. To reveal the structural basis of the broad selectivity of Tom20, the Tom20 presequence complex was crystallized. Tethering a presequence peptide to Tom20 through a disulfide bond was essential for crystallization. Unexpectedly, the two crystals with different linker designs provided unique relative orientations of the presequence with respect to Tom20, and neither configuration could fully account for the hydrophobic preference at the three hydrophobic positions of the consensus motif. We propose the existence of a dynamic equilibrium in solution among multiple states including the two bound states. In accordance, NMR N-15 relaxation analyses suggested motion on a sub-millisecond timescale at the Tom20-presequence interface. We suggest that the dynamic, multiple-mode interaction is the molecular mechanism facilitating the broadly selective specificity of the Tom20 receptor toward diverse mitochondrial presequences.

DOI： 10.1038/sj.emboj.7601888

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

New oligosaccharyltransferase assay method
We developed a new in vitro assay for oligosaccharyltransferase (OST), which catalyzes the transfer of preassembled oligosaccharides on lipid carriers onto asparagine residues in polypeptide chains. The asparagine residues reside in the sequon, Asn-X-Thr/Ser, where X can be any amino acid residue except Pro. We demonstrate the potency of our assay using the OST from yeast. In our method, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis is used to separate the glycopeptide products from the peptide substrates. The substrate peptide is fluorescently labeled and the formation of glycopeptides is analyzed by fluorescence gel imaging. Two in vitro OST assay methods are now widely used, but both the methods depend on previous knowledge of the oligosaccharide moiety: One method uses lectin binding as the separation mechanism and the other method uses biosynthetically or chemoenzymatically synthesized lipid-linked oligosaccharides as donors. N-linked protein glycosylation is found in all three domains of life, but little is known about the N-glycosylation in Archaea. Thus, our new assay, which does not require a priori knowledge of the oligosaccharides, will be useful in such cases. Indeed, we have detected the OST activity in the membrane fraction from a hyperthermophilic archaeon, Pyrococcus furiosus.

DOI： 10.1093/glycob/cwm087

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction studies of the soluble domain of the oligosaccharyltransferase STT3 subunit from the thermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus
Oligosaccharyltransferase catalyzes the transfer of preassembled oligosaccharides onto asparagine residues in nascent polypeptide chains. The STT3 subunit is thought to bear the catalytic site. The C-terminal domain of the STT3 protein of Pyrococcus furiosus was expressed in Escherichia coli cells. STT3 protein prepared from two different sources, the soluble fraction and the inclusion bodies, produced crystals that diffracted to 2.7 angstrom. During crystallization screening, cocrystals of P. furiosus STT3 with an E. coli 50S ribosomal protein, L7/ L12, were accidentally obtained. This cross-species interaction is not biologically relevant, but may be used to design a built-in polypeptide substrate for the STT3 crystals.

DOI： 10.1107/S1744309107040134

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

HLA-G is a non-classical human MHC class I molecule, which has several characteristics distinct from classical MHC, such as low polymorphism and restricted tissue distribution. HLA-G is expressed on placenta, thymus and some tumors. At the maternal-fetal interface, trophoblasts do not express major classical MHC class I molecules (MHCI), HLA-A and -B, to prevent normal T cell responses. Instead, HLA-G is expressed and can suppress a wide range of immune responses by binding to inhibitory immune cell surface receptors, such as leukocyte Ig-like receptor (LILR) B1 and LILRB2. HLA-G exists in various forms, including beta 2m-associated or -free disulfide-linked dimers that can be expressed either at the cell surface or in soluble form. However, until recently the physiological role of these different molecular forms has been unclear. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, one article demonstrates that the disulfide-linked homodimer of beta 2m-associated HLA-G is the major fraction expressed by trophoblast cells. The HLA-G dimer modulates the function of LILRB1-expressing antigen-presenting cells by principally binding to LILRB1. On the other hand, another recent report showed that beta 2m-free disulfide-linked HLA-G dimers are produced by villous cytotrophoblast cells. Taken together, these results provide strong evidence in support of the hypothesis that HLA-G dimers play a role in immune suppression at the maternal-fetal interface. Further in-depth investigation will help to clarify the precise mechanism of HLA-G receptor recognition and signaling in vivo and the role of these interactions in successful reproduction.

DOI： 10.1002/eji.200737515

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Structural basis of the 3'-end recognition of a leading strand in stalled replication forks by PriA
In eubacteria, PriA helicase detects the stalled DNA replication forks. This critical role of PriA is ascribed to its ability to bind to the 3' end of a nascent leading DNA strand in the stalled replication forks. The crystal structures in complexes with oligonucleotides and the combination of fluorescence correlation spectroscopy and mutagenesis reveal that the N-terminal domain of PriA possesses a binding pocket for the 3'-terminal nucleotide residue of DNA. The interaction with the deoxyribose 3'-OH is essential for the 3'-terminal recognition. In contrast, the direct interaction with 3'-end nucleobase is unexpected, considering the same affinity for oligonucleotides carrying the four bases at the 3' end. Thus, the N-terminal domain of PriA recognizes the 3'end base in a base-non-selective manner, in addition to the deoxyribose and 5'-side phosphodiester group, of the 3''-terminal nucleotide to acquire both sufficient affinity and non-selectivity to find all of the stalled replication forks generated during DNA duplication. This unique feature is prerequisite for the proper positioning of the helicase domain of PriA on the unreplicated double-stranded DNA.

DOI： 10.1038/sj.emboj.7601697

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Selenocysteine (Sec) is the "21st" amino acid and is genetically encoded by an unusual incorporation system. The stop codon UGA becomes a Sec codon when the selenocysteine insertion sequence (SECIS) exists downstream of UGA. Sec incorporation requires a specific elongation factor, SeIB, which recognizes tRNA(Sec) via use of an EF-Tu-like domain and the SECIS mRNA hairpin via use of a C-terminal domain (SeIB-C). SeIB functions in multiple translational steps: binding to SECIS mRNA and tRNA(Sec), delivery of tRNA(Sec) onto an A site, GTP hydrolysis, and release from tRNA and mRNA. However, this dynamic mechanism remains to be revealed. Here, we report a large domain rearrangement in the structure of SeIB-C complexed with RNA. Surprisingly, the interdomain region forms new interactions with the phosphate backbone of a neighboring RNA, distinct from SECIS RNA binding. This SeIB-RNA interaction is sequence independent, possibly reflecting SeIB-tRNA/-rRNA recognitions. Based on these data, the dynamic SeIB-ribosome-mRNA-tRNA interactions will be discussed.

DOI： 10.1016/j.str.2007.03.007

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) can directly and quickly detect the translational diffusion of individual fluorescence-labeled molecules in solutions. Although FCS analyses for protein-protein interactions have been performed, the very weak interactions generally observed in cell-cell recognition of the immune system have not been examined in detail. Here, we report the FCS analysis for low-affinity and fast-kinetic binding (K-d greater than mu M range) of the human inhibitory immune cell surface receptor, leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor B1 (LILRB1), to its ligands, MHC (major histocompatibility complex) class I molecules (MHCIs) by using the single-molecule FCS detection system which requires only a small amount of sample. Since the random labeling technique for LILRB1 disturbed the MHCI binding, we performed site-specific labeling of LILRB1 by introducing a cysteine residue at the C-terminus, which could be covalently attached with the fluorescence reagent, Alexa647. This technique can be applied to other type I membrane receptors. The low-affinity binding of LILRB1-Alexa647 to MHCIs (HLA-Cw4, and -G1) was detected by FCS, even though non-labeled MHCIs were only twice as big as the labeled LILRB1. Their dissociation constants (7.5 mu M (HLA-Cw4) and 5.7 mu M (HLA-G1)) could be determined and were consistent with surface plasmon resonance (SPR) data. These results indicate that the single-molecule FCS detection system is capable of analyzing the binding characteristics of immune cell surface receptors even in difficult cases such as (1) small amount of protein samples, (2) small difference in molecular weight and (3) weak affinity. Therefore, it is a powerful tool for characterization and high throughput inhibitor screening of a wide variety of cell-cell recognition receptors involved in immunologically relevant events. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.jim.2006.11.009

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Although it is clear that KIR3DL1 recognizes Bw4(+) HLA-B, the role of Bw4(+) HLA-A allotypes as KIR3DL1 ligands is controversial We therefore examined the hinding of tetrameric HLA-A and -B complexes, including HLA*2402, a common Bw4(+) HLA-A allotype, to KIR3DLI*001, *005, *007, and *1502 allotypes. Only Bw4(+) tetramers hound K7R3DL1. Three of four HLA-A*2402 tetramers bound one or more KIR3DL1 allotypes and all four KIR3DL1 allotypes bound to one or more HLA-A*2402 tetramers, but with different binding specificities. Only KTR3DL1*005 bound both HLA-A*2402 and HLA-B*5703 tetramers. HLA-A*2402-expressing target cells were resistant to lysis by NK cells expressing KIR3DL1*001 or *005. This study shows that HLA-A*2402 is a ligand for KIR3DL1 and demonstrates how the binding of KIR3DL1 to Bw4(+) ligands depends upon the bound peptide as well as HLA and KIR3DL1 polymorphism.

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

HLA-G is a nonclassical MHC class I (MHCI) molecule that can suppress a wide range of immune responses in the maternal-fetal interface. The human inhibitory immune receptors leukocyte lg-like receptor (LILR) B1 [also called LIR1, Ig-like transcript 2 (ILT2), or CD85j] and LILRB2 (LIR2/ILT4/CD85d) preferentially recognize HLA-G. HLA-G inherently exhibits various forms, including beta(2)-microglobulin (beta(2)m)-free and disulfide-linked dimer forms. Notably, LILRB1 cannot recognize the beta(2)m-free form of HLA-G or HLA-B27, but LILRB2 can recognize the beta(2)m-free form of HLA-B27. To date, the structural basis for HLA-G/LILR recognition remains to be examined. Here, we report the 2.5-A resolution crystal structure of the LILRB2/HLA-G complex. LILRB2 exhibits an overlapping but distinct MHCI recognition mode compared with LILRB1 and dominantly recognizes the hydrophobic site of the HLA-G alpha 3 domain. NMR binding studies also confirmed these LILR recognition differences on both conformed (heavy chain/peptide/beta(2)m) and free forms of beta(2)m. Binding studies using beta(2)m-free MHCIs revealed differential beta(2)m-dependent LILR-binding specificities. These results suggest that subtle structural differences between LILRB family members cause the distinct binding specificities to various forms of HLA-G and other MHCIs, which may in turn regulate immune suppression.

DOI： 10.1073/pnas.0605228103

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

MILL (MHC class I-like located near the leukocyte receptor complex) is a family of MHC class I-like molecules encoded outside the MHC, which displays the highest sequence similarity to human MICA/B molecules among known class I molecules. In the present study, we show that the two members of the mouse MILL family, MILL1 and MILL2, are GPI-anchored glycoproteins associated with beta(2)-microglobulin (beta(2)m) and that cell surface expression of MILL1 or MILL2 does not require functional TAP molecules. MILL1 and MILL2 molecules expressed in bacteria could be refolded in the presence of beta(2)m, without adding any peptides. Hence, neither MILL1 nor MILL2 is likely to be involved in the presentation of peptides. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that MILL1 is expressed in a subpopulation of thymic medullary epithelial cells and a restricted region of inner root sheaths in hair follicles. The present study provides additional evidence that MILL is a class I family distinct from MICA/B.

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Human leukocyte Ig-like receptor B1 (LILRB1) and B2 (LILRB2) belong to "Group 1" receptors and recognize a broad range of major histocompatibility complex class I molecules (MHCIs). In contrast, "Group 2" receptors show low similarity with LILRB1/B2, and their ligands remain to be identified. To date, the structural and functional characteristics of Group 2 LILRs are poorly understood. Here we report the crystal structure of the extracellular domain of LILRA5, which is an activating Group2 LILR expressed on monocytes and neutrophils. Unexpectedly, the structure showed large changes in structural conformation and charge distribution in the region corresponding to the MHCI binding site of LILRB1/B2, which are also distinct from killer cell Ig-like receptors and F alpha receptors. These changes probably confer the structural hindrance for the MHCI binding, and their key amino acid substitutions are well conserved in Group 2 LILRs. Consistently, the surface plasmon resonance and flow cytometric analyses demonstrated that LILRA5 exhibited no affinities to all tested MHCIs. These results raised the possibility that LILRA5 as well as Group 2 LILRs do not play a role in any MHCI recognition but could possibly bind to non-MHCI ligand(s) on the target cells to provide a novel immune regulation mechanism.

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.M603076200

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Bombyx mori nuclear polyhedrosis virus (BmNPV) baculovirus expression system (BES) has a lot of advantages such as high expression efficiency, convenience, and low feeding cost. In this report, we used a recently developed BmNPV bacmid, which could infect both B. mori cell lines and silkworm larvae. The results showed it takes only 7 to 10 days to generate recombinant baculovirus and permit the rapid isolation from small-scale cultures and then use it to transfect B. mori cell lines, compared to traditional homologous recombination method, which needs at least 40 days for multiple rounds of purification and amplification of viruses. Using this BES, we expressed a recombinant spider flagelliform protein in BmN cell line, which was around 37 kDa in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and western blot analysis. The BmNPV bacmid system using silkworm would be very attractive for expression of target proteins.

DOI： 10.1007/s00253-005-0127-2

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Preparation and crystallization of the disulfide-linked HLA-G dimer.
HLA-G is a non-classical MHC class I, which binds to inhibitory receptors, such as Leukocyte Ig-like receptors, to induce a wide range of tolerogenic immunological effects. HLA-G can be expressed as a disulfide-liked dimer both in solution and at the cell surface. However, the three-dimensional structure of the HLA-G dimer is unknown. Here, we report the crystallization of the disulfide-linked dimer form of HLA-G by adding dithiothreitol (DTT), enabling a 3.2-A data set to be collected. We also show that DTT promotes disulfide bond exchange of refolded HLA-G, whose free cysteine was protected, thus facilitating its dimerization. This technique could also be applied for disulfide-mediated dimer/multimer formation of refolded proteins harbouring free cysteines.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbapap.2005.10.006

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

HLA-G is a non-classical MHC class I, which binds to inhibitory receptors, such as Leukocyte Ig-like receptors, to induce a wide range of tolerogenic immunological effects. HLA-G can be expressed as a disulfide-liked dinier both in solution and at the cell surface. However, the three-dimensional structure of the HLA-G dimer is unknown. Here, we report the crystallization of the disulfide-linked dimer form of HLA-G by adding dithiothreitol (DTT), enabling a 3.2-angstrom data set to be collected. We also show that DTT promotes disulfide bond exchange of refolded HLA-G, whose free cysteine was protected, thus facilitating its dimerization. This technique could also be applied for disulfide-mediated dimer/multimer formation of refolded proteins harbouring free cysteines. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbapap.2005.10.006

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

HLA-G is a nonclassical major histocompatibility complex class I (MHCI) molecule, which is expressed in trophoblasts and confers immunological tolerance in the maternal-fetal interface by binding to leukocyte Ig-like receptors (LILRs, also called as LIR/ILT/CD85) and CD8. HLA-G is expressed in disulfide-linked dimer form both in solution and at the cell surface. Interestingly, MHCI dimer formations have been involved in pathogenesis and T cell activation. The structure and receptor binding characteristics of MHCI dimers have never been evaluated. Here we performed binding studies showing that the HLA-G dimer exhibited higher overall affinity to LILRB1/2 than the monomer by significant avidity effects. Furthermore, the cell reporter assay demonstrated that the dimer formation remarkably enhanced the LILRB1-mediated signaling at the cellular level. We further determined the crystal structure of the wild-type dimer of HLA-G with the intermolecular Cys(42)-Cys(42) disulfide bond. This dimer structure showed the oblique configuration to expose two LILR/CD8-binding sites upward from the membrane easily accessible for receptors, providing plausible 1: 2 (HLA-G dimer: receptors) complex models. These results indicated that the HLA-G dimer conferred increased avidity in a proper structural orientation to induce efficient LILR signaling, resulting in the dominant immunosuppressive effects. Moreover, structural and functional implications for other MHCI dimers observed in activated T cells and the pathogenic allele, HLA-B27, are discussed.

DOI： 10.1074/jbc.M512305200

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The human inhibitory receptor, leukocyte immunoglobulin (Ig)-like receptor B1 (also called Ig-like transcript (ILT) 2, CD85j), is broadly expressed on leukocytes. LILRB1 binds to a wide range of major histocompatibility complex class I molecules (MHCIs) and transduces negative signals that can, for example, prevent killing of MHO-expressing cells. Here we report the kinetic, thermodynamic, NMR and crystallographic analyses of MHCl recognition by LILRB1. Kinetic studies demonstrated that LILRB1 binds to MHCIs with fast association and dissociation rates, typical of cell-cell recognition receptors. Thermodynamic analyses showed that LILRB1-MHCI interactions are entropically driven (-T Delta S = -9.4 similar to-6.6 kcal mol(-1)) with low heat capacity changes (Delta C-p= -0.22 similar to-0.10 kcal mol(-1) K-1). The crystal structures of LILRB1 in the different crystal forms exhibited variation in the elbow angle between the two N-terminal Ig-like domains, indicating interdomain flexibility Consistently, NMR analysis provided the direct evidence of the conformational changes of LILRB1 upon the MHCI binding. These findings suggest that LILRB1-MHCI interactions, while involving some conformational adjustment, are not accompanied by a very large reduction in conformational flexibility at the binding interface. This mode of binding is distinct from '' Induced-fit '' binding, which is associated with large reductions in conformational flexibility and would be suitable for rapid engagement of MHCIs to enable fast monitoring of the expression level of MHCIs on target cells. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.jmb.2005.10.057

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Crystallization and preliminary crystallographic analysis of the N-terminal domain of PriA from Escherichia coli.
PriA, a DEXH-type DNA helicase, binds specifically to the 3' end of DNA through its N-terminal domain, and is a candidate sensor protein that recognizes arrested DNA replication forks in bacteria. We crystallized an N-terminal fragment of PriA in the absence and the presence of oligonucleotides to elucidate the structural basis for the specific recognition of the 3' terminus of DNA.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbapap.2005.09.007

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Leukocyte immunoglobulin-like receptor subfamily B member I (LILRB1/LIR1/ILT2) is an inhibitory receptor broadly expressed on leukocytes and recognizes HLA-class I and human cytomegalovirus UL18. LILRB1 is encoded within the leukocyte receptor complex on 19q13.4, previously implicated to be a susceptibility region to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this study, we screened for polymorphisms of LILRB1 and examined their association with SLE and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In the 5' portion of LILRB1, three haplotypes containing four non-synonymous substitutions within the ligand-binding domains and two single nucleotide polymorphisms within the promoter region were identified and designated as PE01-03. In the 3' portion, two haplotypes (CY01, 02) containing a non-synonymous substitution of the cytoplasmic region were identified. CY01 and 02 did not co-segregate with PE01-03. Significant association with susceptibility to SLE or RA was not observed; however, among the subjects not carrying RA-associated HLA-DRB1 shared epitope (SE), LILRB1.PE01/01 diplotype was significantly associated with RA (odds ratio 2.05, P = 0.019 and Pc = 0.038). Gross difference was not observed in the crystal structures, thermostabilities and binding affinities to HLA-class I ligands among LILRB1.PE01-03 haplotype products; however, surface expression of LILRB1 was significantly decreased in lymphocytes and monocytes from the carriers of PE01 haplotype. These findings demonstrated that LILRB1 is highly polymorphic and is associated with susceptibility to RA in HLA-DRB1 SE negative subjects, possibly by insufficient inhibitory signaling in leukocytes. In addition, these observations suggested that the polymorphisms of LILR family members may be substantially involved in the diversity of human immune responses.

DOI： 10.1093/hmg/ddi247

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The Pseudomonas putida cam repressor (CamR) is a homodimeric protein that binds to the camO DNA operator to inhibit the transcription of the cytochrome P450cam operon camDCAB. CamR has two functional domains: a regulatory domain and a DNA-binding domain. The binding of the inducer D-camphor to the regulatory domain renders the DNA-binding domain unable to bind camO. Native CamR and its selenomethionyl derivative have been overproduced in Escherichia coli and purified. Native CamR was crystallized under the following conditions: (i) 12-14% PEG 4000, 50 mM Na PIPES, 0.1 M KCl, 1% glycerol pH 7.3 at 288 K with and without camphor and (ii) 1.6 M P(i), 50 mM Na PIPES, 2 mM camphor pH 6.7 at 278 K. The selenomethionyl derivative CamR did not crystallize under either of these conditions, but did crystallize using 12.5% PEG MME 550, 25 mM Na PIPES, 2.5 mM MgCl2 pH 7.3 at 298 K. Preliminary X-ray diffraction studies revealed the space group to be orthorhombic (P2(1)2(1)2), with unit-cell parameters a = 48.0, b = 73.3, c = 105.7 A. Native and selenomethionyl derivative data sets were collected to 3 A resolution at SPring-8 and the Photon Factory.

DOI： 10.1107/S1744309105023225

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Crystallization and preliminary X-ray analysis of mitochondrial presequence receptor Tom20 in complexes with a presequence from aldehyde dehydrogenase
Most mitochondrial proteins are synthesized in the cytosol and must be imported into the mitochondria. Many mitochondrial precursor proteins have an extra leader sequence at their N-terminus called a presequence. Presequences are recognized by the Tom20 receptor protein. Based on the previously determined NMR structure of rat Tom20, a fragment corresponding to the core structure was generated. A cysteine residue was added at the C-terminus of the rat aldehyde dehydrogenase presequence to fix the presequence peptide onto the Tom20 fragment via an intermolecular disulfide bond. Two crystal forms of the complex were successfully obtained with different designs of the linker sequence which diffracted to 2.1 and 1.9 A. Crystal dehydration and subsequent annealing was essential to obtain good diffraction data for the 2.1 A crystal form.

DOI： 10.1107/S1744309105011577

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

In bacteria, the selenocysteine-specific elongation factor SelB is necessary for incorporation of selenocysteine, the 21st amino acid, into proteins by the ribosome. SelB binds to an mRNA hairpin formed by the selenocysteine-insertion sequence (SECIS) and delivers selenocysteyl-tRNA (Sec-tRNASec) at the ribosomal A site. The minimum fragment (residues 512-634) of Moorella thermoacetica SelB (SelB-M) required for mRNA binding has been overexpressed and purified. The complex of SelB-M with 23 nucleotides of the SECIS mRNA hairpin was crystallized at 293 K using the hanging-drop vapour-diffusion or oil-batch methods. The crystals diffract to 2.3 A resolution using SPring-8 BL41XU and belong to the space group P2(1)2(1)2, with unit-cell parameters a = 81.69, b = 169.58, c = 71.69 A.

DOI： 10.1107/S1744309105003611

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

In bacteria, incorporation of selenocysteine, the 21(st) amino acid, into proteins requires elongation factor SelB, which has the unusual property of binding to both transfer RNA (tRNA) and mRNA. SelB binds to an mRNA hairpin formed by the selenocysteine insertion sequence (SECIS) with extremely high specificity, the molecular basis of which has been unknown. We have determined the crystal structure of the mRNA-binding domain of SelB in complex with SECIS RNA at a resolution of 2.3 Angstrom. This is the first example of a complex between an RNA and a winged-helix (WH) domain, a motif found in many DNA-binding proteins and recently discovered in RNA-binding proteins. Notably, RNA binding does not induce a major conformational change in the WH motif. The structure reveals a new mode of RNA recognition with a geometry that allows the complex to wrap around the small ribosomal subunit.

DOI： 10.1038/nsmb890

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Human cytomegalovirus carries a gene, UL18, that is homologous to cellular major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I genes. Like MHC class I molecules, the protein product of the UL18 gene associates with beta2-microglobulin, and the stability of this complex depends on peptide loading. UL18 protein binds to ILT2 (CD85j), an inhibitory receptor present on B cells, monocytes, dendritic cells, T cells, and NK cells that also recognizes classical and nonclassical MHC molecules. These observations suggest that UL18 may play a role in viral immune evasion, but its real function is unclear. Since this molecule has similarity with polymorphic MHC proteins, we explored whether the UL18 gene varied between virus isolates. We report here that the UL18 gene varies significantly between virus isolates: amino acid substitutions were found in the predicted (alpha1, alpha2, and alpha3 domains of the UL18 protein molecule. We also studied the ability of several variant UL18 proteins to bind to the ILT2 receptor. All of the variants tested bound to ILT2, but there were marked differences in the affinity of binding to this receptor. These differences were reflected in functional assays measuring inhibition of the cytotoxic capacity of NK cells via interaction with ILT2. In addition, the variants did not bind other members of the CD85 family. The implications of these data are discussed.

DOI： 10.1128/JVI.79.4.2251-2260.2005

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

In bacteria, incorporation of selenocysteine, the 21st amino acid, into proteins requires elongation factor SelB, which has the unusual property of binding to both transfer RNA (tRNA) and mRNA. SelB binds to an mRNA hairpin formed by the selenocysteine insertion sequence (SECIS) with extremely high specificity, the molecular basis of which has been unknown. We have determined the crystal structure of the mRNA-binding domain of SelB in complex with SECIS RNA at a resolution of 2.3 Å. This is the first example of a complex between an RNA and a winged-helix (WH) domain, a motif found in many DNA-binding proteins and recently discovered in RNA-binding proteins. Notably, RNA binding does not induce a major conformational change in the WH motif. The structure reveals a new mode of RNA recognition with a geometry that allows the complex to wrap around the small ribosomal subunit. © 2005 Nature Publishing Group.

DOI： 10.1038/nsmb890

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Silkworm is one of the most attractive hosts for large-scale production of eukaryotic proteins as well as recombinant baculoviruses for gene transfer to mammalian cells. The bacmid system of Autographa californica nuclear polyhedrosis virus (AcNPV) has already been established and widely used. However, the AcNPV does not have a potential to infect silkworm. We developed the first practical Bombyx mori nuclear polyhedrosis virus bacmid system directly applicable for the protein expression of silkworm. By using this system, the green fluorescence protein was successfully expressed in silkworm larvae and pupae not only by infection of its recombinant virus but also by direct injection of its bacmid DNA. This method provides the rapid protein production in silkworm as long as 10 days, is free from biohazard, thus will be a powerful tool for the future production factory of recombinant eukaryotic proteins and baculoviruses. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbrc.2004.11.060

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

PriB is not only an essential protein necessary for the replication restart on the collapsed and disintegrated replication fork, but also an important protein for assembling of primosome onto PhiX174 genomic DNA during replication initiation. Here we report a 2.0-Angstrom-resolution X-ray structure of a biologically functional form of PriB from Escherichia coli. The crystal structure revealed that despite a low level of primary sequence identity, the PriB monomer, as well as the dimeric form, are structurally identical to the N-terminal DNA-binding domain of the single-stranded DNA-binding protein (SSB) from Escherichia coli, which possesses an oligonucleotides-binding-fold. The oligonucleotide-PriB complex model based on the oligonucleotides-SSB complex structure suggested that PriB had a DNA-binding pocket conserved in SSB from Escherichia coli and might bind to single-stranded DNA in the manner of SSB. Furthermore, surface plasmon resonance analysis and fluorescence measurements demonstrated that PriB binds single-stranded DNA with high affinity, by involving tryptophan residue. The significance of these results with respect to the functional role of PriB in the assembly of primosome is discussed. (C) 2004 Published by Elsevier Inc.

DOI： 10.1016/j.bbrc.2004.11.104

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The ECS (Elongin B/C-Cul2/Cul5-SOCS-box protein) complex is a member of a family of ubiquitin ligases that share a Cullin-Rbx module. SOCS-box proteins recruit substrates to the ECS complex and are linked to Cullin-Rbx via Elongin B/C. VHL has been implicated as a SOCS-box protein, but lacks a C-terminal sequence (downstream of the BC box) of the SOCS box. We now show that VHL specifically interacts with endogenous Cul2-Rbx1 in mammalian cells, whereas SOCS-box proteins associate with Cul5-Rbx2. We also identify LRR-1 and FEM1B as proteins that share a region of homology with VHL (the VHL box, including the BC box and downstream residues) and associate with Cul2-Rbx1. ECS complexes can thus be classified into two distinct protein assemblies, that is, those that contain a subunit with a VHL box (composed of the BC box and a downstream Cul2 box) that interacts with Cul2-Rbx1, and those that contain a subunit with a SOCS box (BC box and downstream Cul5 box) that interacts with Cul5-Rbx2. Domain-swapping analyses showed that the specificity of interaction of VHL-box and SOCS-box proteins with Cullin-Rbx modules is determined by the Cul2 and Cul5 boxes, respectively. Finally, RNAi-mediated knockdown of the Cul2-Rbx1 inhibited the VHL-mediated degradation of HIF-2alpha, whereas knockdown of Cul5-Rbx2 did not affect it. These data suggest that the functions of the Cul2-Rbx1 and Cul5-Rbx2 modules are distinct.

DOI： 10.1101/gad.1252404

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The human non-classical MHC class I molecule HLA-E is a ligand for both an inhibitory NK cell receptor (CD94/NKG2A) and an activating receptor (CD94/NKG2d). To identify HLA-E surface recognized by both receptors, especially to determine if both receptors recognize the same epitope, we made a series of individually Ala-substituted HLA-E proteins and analyzed their binding to CD94/NKG2A or CD94/NKG2C. Eight HLA-E mutations that significantly impaired HLA-E binding to CD94/NKG2A are all found in the top of alpha1/alpha2 domain of HLA-E. These results suggest that CD94/NKG2A binds a HLA-E surface equivalent to a NKG2D binding site on MICA. Of the eight mutations that impaired HLA-E binding to CD94/ NKG2A, six significantly impaired HLA-E binding to CD94/NKG2C suggesting that CD94/ NKG2C also binds a similar surface of HLA-E. Unexpectedly, the two HLA-E mutations (D69A and H155A) selectively abrogated HLA-E binding to CD94/NKG2A, not largely affected CD94/NKG2C. These results indicate that a mostly shared, but partly distinct set of HLA-E residues is discriminated by the two receptors.

DOI： 10.1002/eji.200324432

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Ig-like transcript 4 (ILT4) (also known as leukocyte Ig-like receptor 2, CD85d, and LILRB2) is a cell surface receptor expressed mainly on myelomonocytic cells, whereas ILT2 (also known as leukocyte Ig-like receptor 1, CD85j, and LILRB1) is expressed on a wider range of immune cells including subsets of natural killer and T cells. Both ILTs contain immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory receptor motifs in their cytoplasmic tails that inhibit cellular responses by recruiting phosphatases such as SHP-1 (Src homology 2 domain containing tyrosine phosphatase 1). Although these ILTs have been shown to recognize a broad range of classical and nonclassical human MHC class I molecules (MHCIs), their precise binding properties remain controversial. We have used surface plasmon resonance to analyze the interaction of soluble forms of ILT4 and ILT2 with several MHCIs. Although the range of affinities measured was quite broad (K-d = 2-45 muM), some interesting differences were observed. ILT2 generally bound with a 2- to 3-fold higher affinity than ILT4 to the same MHCI. Furthermore, ILT2 and ILT4 bound to HLA-G with a 3- to 4-fold higher affinity than to classical MHCIs, suggesting that ILT/HLA-G recognition may play a dominant role in the regulation of natural killer, T, and myelomonocytic cell activation. Finally, we show that ILT2 and ILT4 effectively compete with CD8 for MHCI binding, raising the possibility that ILT2 modulates CD8(+) T cell activation by blocking the CD8 binding as well as by recruiting inhibitory molecules through its immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory receptor motif.

DOI： 10.1073/pnas.1431057100

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

The Siglec family of receptors mediates cell surface interactions through recognition of sialylated glycoconjugates. The crystal structure of the N-terminal immunoglobulin-like domain of the Siglec sialoadhesin (SnD1) in complex with 2,3-sialyllactose has informed the design of sialic acid analogs (sialosides) that bind Siglecs with significantly enhanced affinities and specificities. Binding assays against sialoadhesin (Sn; Siglec-1), CD22 (Siglec-2), and MAG (Siglec-4) show a 10- to 300-fold reduction in IC50 values (relative to methyl-alpha-Neu5Ac) for three sialosides bearing aromatic group modifications of the glycerol side chain: Me-alpha-9-N-benzoyi-amino-9-deoxy-Neu5Ac (BENZ), Me-alpha-9-N-(naphthyl-2-carbonyl)-amino-9-deoxy-Neu5Ac (NAP), and Me-alpha-9-N-(biphenyl-4-carbonyl)-amino-9-deoxy-Neu5Ac (BIP). Crystal structures of these sialosides in complex with SnD1 suggest explanations for the differences in specificity and affinity, providing further ideas for compound design of physiological and potentially therapeutic relevance.

DOI： 10.1016/S0969-2126(03)00073-X

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Accumulating evidence indicates that recognition by TCRs is far more degenerate than formerly presumed. Cross-recognition of microbial Ags by autoreactive T cells is implicated in the development of autoimmunity, and elucidating the recognition nature of TCRs has great significance for revelation of the disease process. A major drawback of currently used means, including positional scanning synthetic combinatorial peptide libraries, to analyze diversity of epitopes recognized by certain TCRs is that the systematic detection of cross-recognized epitopes considering the combinatorial effect of amino acids within the epitope is difficult. We devised a novel method to resolve this issue and used it to analyze cross-recognition profiles of two glutamic acid decarboxylase 65-autoreactive CD4(+) T cell clones, established from type I diabetes patients. We generated a DNA-based randomized epitope library based on the original glutamic acid decarboxylase epitope using class II-associated invariant chain peptide-substituted invariant chains. The epitope library was composed of seven sublibraries, in which three successive residues within the epitope were randomized simultaneously. Analysis of agonistic epitopes indicates that recognition by both TCRs was significantly affected by combinations of amino acids in the antigenic peptide, although the degree of combinatorial effect differed between the two TCRs. Protein database searching based on the TCR recognition profile proved successful in identifying several microbial and self-protein-derived mimicry epitopes. Some of the identified mimicry epitopes were actually produced from recombinant microbial proteins by APCs to stimulate T cell clones. Our data demonstrate the importance of the combinatorial nature of amino acid residues of epitopes in molecular mimicry.

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

PhoB is a transcriptional factor that activates more than 30 genes of the pho regulon in response to phosphate starvation. Crystals of its C-terminal domain (PhoBC) were obtained in two forms. The first crystal form, obtained from phosphate solution, belongs to space group P2(1), with unit-cell parameters a = 30.7, b = 105.9, c = 30.9 Angstrom, beta = 110.3degrees. The second form, crystallized from PEG solution, belongs to the same space group, but has a smaller unit cell (a = 30.6, b = 37.5, c = 44.4 Angstrom, beta = 109.4degrees). Crystals of selenomethionyl-derivatized PhoBC were obtained using the conditions for the second crystal form. Diffraction data from wild-type PhoBC (2.0 Angstrom resolution) and MAD data sets from selenomethionyl-derivative PhoBC (3.0 Angstrom resolution) have been collected at 100 K with a synchrotron-radiation source. MAD data analysis is in progress.

DOI： 10.1107/S090744490201332X

記述言語：英語   掲載種別：研究論文（学術雑誌）  

Background: T cells and natural killer (NK) cells perform complementary tales in the cellular immune system. T cells identify infected cells directly through recognition of antigenic peptides that are displayed at the target cell surface by the classical major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules. NK cells monitor the target cell surface for malfunction of this display system, lysing potentially infected cells that might otherwise evade recognition by the T cells. Human killer cell inhibitory receptors (KIRs) control this process by either inhibiting or activating the cytotoxic activity of NK cells via specific binding to MHC class I molecules on the target cell.
Results: We report the crystal structure of the extracellular region of the human p58 KIR (KIR2DL3), which is specific for the human MHC class I molecule HLA-Cw3 and related alleles. The structure shows the predicted topology of two tandem immunoglobulin-like domains, but comparison with the previously reported structure of the related receptor KIR2DL1 reveals an unexpected change of 23 degrees in the relative orientation of these domains.
Conclusions: The altered orientation of the immunoglobulin-like domains maintains an unusually acute interdomain elbow angle, which therefore appears to be a distinctive feature of the KIRs. The putative MHC Glass I binding site is located on the outer surface of the elbow, spanning both domains. The unexpected observation that this binding site can be modulated by differences in the relative domain orientations has implications for the general mechanism of KIR-MHC class I complex formation.

担当ページ：総ページ数：x, 258p   記述言語：日本語  

担当ページ：総ページ数：ix, 238p   記述言語：日本語  

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記述言語：日本語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（全国大会，その他学術会議）   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本生化学会  

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記述言語：日本語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（全国大会，その他学術会議）   出版者・発行元：公益社団法人 日本薬理学会  

Cigarette smoking is a risk factor for various types of diseases including atherosclerosis, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and respiratory infection. The respiratory infection caused by cigarette smoking is due to immune cell dysfunction by cigarette smoke, although its molecular mechanism remains to be clarified. The cigarette smoke can be divided into two phases: tar (particle) phase and gas phase. We have previously reported that gas phase extract of cigarette smoke (CSE) induces cell death. In this study, we have examined the effects of CSE on J774 macrophages. CSE and unsaturated carbonyl compounds, cytotoxic factors in the CSE, induced cell death in J774 macrophages. Ferrostatin-1 and liproxstatin-1, ferroptosis inhibitors, suppressed cell death caused by CSE and unsaturated carbonyl compounds. A broad-range protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor Gö6983 suppressed CSE- and unsaturated carbonyl compounds-induced cell death. To identify PKC isoforms involved in the process, we have examined isoform-specific inhibitors. Enzastaurin, a PKCβ-specific inhibitor, suppressed the cell death. Enzastaurin also suppressed RSL3-induced ferroptosis. These results suggest that CSE and unsaturated carbonyl compounds induce PKCβ-dependent ferroptosis in J774 macrophages.

DOI： 10.1254/jpssuppl.97.0_3-b-p-069

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担当区分：最終著者,　責任著者   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（全国大会，その他学術会議）  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(株)羊土社  

世界的なパンデミックへと発展したCOVID-19の原因ウイルスSARS-CoV-2に対して数々の抗体医薬の研究開発が進められ,その一部は実用化されて臨床適用されている.しかし,SARS-CoV-2は,抗体医薬のエピトープ部分であるスパイクタンパク質の受容体結合ドメインに変異を導入することで抗体による認識から逃避することができ,多くの抗体の中和活性が低下してしまう事例が報告されている.本稿では執筆時点ですでに臨床適用されている抗体医薬や,主流であるオミクロン株をはじめとした変異に対抗する抗体医薬の研究開発状況および戦略について紹介する.(著者抄録)

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本生化学会  

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X-ray crystal structure analysis of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and neutralizing antibody NT-193 complex

記述言語：日本語  

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：医歯薬出版(株)  

本稿では、筆者が取り組んできた免疫と感染症に関わる表面抗原/受容体の蛋白質科学研究から計画的セレンディピティを考えたい。はじめに麻疹ウイルスの表面にある受容体結合蛋白質を取り上げ、その受容体との結合・構造について蛋白質科学解析を行った結果から、その免疫応答・制御を考察した例を説明する。次に、免疫チェックポイント受容体LILRとリガンドHLA-Gとの分子認識に関する解析から、想定外の新規HLA-G分子形態によるavidity効果を介した免疫制御を見出したことを説明する。最後に、新型コロナウイルス(SARS-CoV-2)に対する中和抗体の認識機構についての蛋白質レベルでの解析から見出された変異ウイルスに対する活性とavidity効果について紹介したい。(著者抄録)

DOI： 10.32118/ayu28209801

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：医歯薬出版(株)  

本稿では、筆者が取り組んできた免疫と感染症に関わる表面抗原/受容体の蛋白質科学研究から計画的セレンディピティを考えたい。はじめに麻疹ウイルスの表面にある受容体結合蛋白質を取り上げ、その受容体との結合・構造について蛋白質科学解析を行った結果から、その免疫応答・制御を考察した例を説明する。次に、免疫チェックポイント受容体LILRとリガンドHLA-Gとの分子認識に関する解析から、想定外の新規HLA-G分子形態によるavidity効果を介した免疫制御を見出したことを説明する。最後に、新型コロナウイルス(SARS-CoV-2)に対する中和抗体の認識機構についての蛋白質レベルでの解析から見出された変異ウイルスに対する活性とavidity効果について紹介したい。(著者抄録)

記述言語：その他  

記述言語：その他  

X-ray crystal structure analysis of MHC class I like molecule CD1d in complex with glycolipids

記述言語：その他  

Current status and prospects for the development of COVID-19 therapeutics at the Research center for Research and Education on Drug Discovery at Hokkaido University

記述言語：その他  

記述言語：日本語  

SARS-CoV-2 infection and development of neutralizing antibodies.

記述言語：日本語  

Total synthesis and bioactivity of heat shock metabolites (HSM), maniwamycins produced by thermotolerant Streptomyces sp. JA74

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：日本語  

Identification and characterization of novel receptors for HLA-G2

記述言語：日本語  

免疫系受容体は、自己・非自己を見分け、免疫活性あるいは抑制シグナルの起点となることで生体内の恒常性を維持するという重要な役割をもつ。しかし、この免疫系受容体とリガンドとの結合は、抗体等の可溶性タンパク質と異なり、弱い相互作用であり、解離速度が速いことから、正確な結合の評価に困難が伴う。本稿では、この免疫系受容体のリガンド認識における弱く速い相互作用について、物理化学的および構造生物学的手法を用いて明らかとなってきた速度論的および熱力学的特徴とその立体構造との関連について概説する。(著者抄録)

記述言語：日本語   掲載種別：研究発表ペーパー・要旨（全国大会，その他学術会議）   出版者・発行元：(公社)日本薬学会  

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担当区分：最終著者   記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：日本DDS学会  

免疫系受容体は、自己・非自己を見分け、免疫活性あるいは抑制シグナルの起点となることで生体内の恒常性を維持するという重要な役割をもつ。しかし、この免疫系受容体とリガンドとの結合は、抗体等の可溶性タンパク質と異なり、弱い相互作用であり、解離速度が速いことから、正確な結合の評価に困難が伴う。本稿では、この免疫系受容体のリガンド認識における弱く速い相互作用について、物理化学的および構造生物学的手法を用いて明らかとなってきた速度論的および熱力学的特徴とその立体構造との関連について概説する。(著者抄録)

J-GLOBAL

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記述言語：日本語   出版者・発行元：東京 : 日本DDS学会 ; 2000-  

免疫系受容体は、自己・非自己を見分け、免疫活性あるいは抑制シグナルの起点となることで生体内の恒常性を維持するという重要な役割をもつ。しかし、この免疫系受容体とリガンドとの結合は、抗体等の可溶性タンパク質と異なり、弱い相互作用であり、解離速度が速いことから、正確な結合の評価に困難が伴う。本稿では、この免疫系受容体のリガンド認識における弱く速い相互作用について、物理化学的および構造生物学的手法を用いて明らかとなってきた速度論的および熱力学的特徴とその立体構造との関連について概説する。

DOI： 10.2745/dds.37.112

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CiNii Research

J-GLOBAL

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J-GLOBAL

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J-GLOBAL

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記述言語：その他  

Thermal stability analysis of lipid antigen presenting molecule, CD1d

記述言語：その他  

Understanding the mechanism by which Ca²⁺ regulates ERp57-CNX complex formation

記述言語：その他  

Cryo-Electron Microscopes organized by Drug Discovery Base of Hokkaido University

記述言語：その他  

記述言語：その他  

記述言語：その他  

記述言語：その他  

X-ray crystal structure analysis of lipid antigen presenting molecule CD1b in complex with endogenous ligand from silkworm

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：その他  

記述言語：その他  

記述言語：日本語  

Structure-based drug design(SBDD)は強力な標的阻害活性を示すリード化合物を、より迅速かつ費用対効果の高い方法で発見することを目的とした新規治療薬創製のアプローチのひとつである。X線結晶構造解析や核磁気共鳴法(NMR)、クライオ電子顕微鏡解析といった手法で得られたタンパク質の立体構造は薬剤が結合可能なポケットを可視化し、薬剤開発への重要な知見を与える。SBDDによって開発された薬剤の代表例として、ヒト免疫不全ウイルス(HIV)に対抗するプロテアーゼ阻害薬があげられる。後天性免疫不全症候群(AIDS)関連死亡者数を大きく減少させることに成功したプロテアーゼ阻害薬は、以後の創薬戦略に大きな影響を与えた。2019年末に出現したSARSコロナウイルス2(SARS-CoV-2)では驚異的な速さで創薬標的分子の立体構造が決定され、抗ウイルス薬の開発が進められている。本稿では抗HIV薬の開発を例にあげてSBDDについて概説し、さらにSARS-CoV-2に対する取り組みについて触れていきたい。(著者抄録)

DOI： 10.32118/ayu27806532

記述言語：その他  

記述言語：その他  

記述言語：その他  

Functional analysis of lipid loading into CD1b mediated by Saposin proteins

記述言語：その他  

X-ray crystal structure analysis of lipid antigen presenting molecule CD1b

記述言語：その他  

Viral Biophysics: Contributions to Drug Modalities

記述言語：英語  

記述言語：日本語  

Viral Biophysics: Contributions to Drug Modalities
Recent virological researches using biophysical methods, termed as virus biophysics or virophysics, largely contribute to the development of anti-viral drugs and vaccines. In this review, examples of structural and physicochemical analyses for representative viruses to develop drug modalities such as small compounds, antibodies, and vaccines are explained, and future direction of biophysical research for virus research is also discussed.

DOI： 10.2142/biophys.61.082

記述言語：日本語  

Structural and Functional Basis for LILRB Immune Checkpoint Receptor Recognition of HLA-G isoforms

記述言語：その他  

記述言語：日本語  

Hokkaido University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences established an affiliated drug discovery science research and education center, Center for Research and Education on Drug Discovery of Hokkaido University (CRED), in 2011 to promote academia drug discovery research. We have set up over the last 8 years the ‘state of the art' instruments necessary for chemical screening, and provided the expertise for drug discovery to novice users, supported by the projects, such as "Basis for Supporting Innovative Drug Discovery and Life Science Research". We also organize a "Platform for medical care and drug discovery" network with related academic departments and universities, Hokkaido University hospital and pharmaceutical companies mainly in Hokkaido Area.

We are proceeding drug discovery modality research using a seamless "from drug seeds to preclinical" development system with a cryo-electron microscope: (1) unique Hokkaido University chemical library (peptides, nucleic acids and natural compounds) and semi-automatic preparation system, (2) preparation technology of difficult-to-express proteins, (3) complete physicochemical measurement technology, (4) Integrated structural analysis technology with cryo EM.

In this lecture, I would like to look back over the past eight years and introduce the current efforts of CRED with some specific examples including the cooperation with the Development Unit of Drug Discovery Initiative of the University of Tokyo to proceed ADME evaluation and derivative synthesis.

DOI： 10.1254/jpssuppl.93.0_2-s19-4

記述言語：日本語  

Academic drug discovery and future perspective of Cryo-EM in Hokkaido University

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：日本語  

近年、抑制化受容体は免疫チェックポイント阻害薬の標的として注目され、抗体医薬品を中心に創薬開発・臨床試験が精力的に実施されている。一方で、抑制化受容体のなかには、相同性の高いファミリーを形成する受容体や、一つの受容体が非自己リガンドを含む多様な分子種を認識するものも存在する。これらの受容体に対する創薬開発においては、リガンド認識機構を構造的に理解したうえで、目的に応じた阻害薬をデザインすることが必須となる。(著者抄録)

記述言語：その他  

記述言語：その他  

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：英語  

記述言語：日本語  

C型レクチン受容体Mincleリガンドとしての複合脂質:合成と機能解析

記述言語：英語  

DOI： 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.10.119

記述言語：日本語  

IDPを使用した新規ペア型酵素の戦略

記述言語：日本語  

NMRを用いた自然免疫受容体Mincleによる糖脂質認識機構の解析

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：日本語  

高精度分子シミュレーションに基づく中分子化合物の脂質二重膜透過解析

記述言語：日本語  

ヒト単純ヘルペスウイルス由来糖ペプチドと免疫受容体PILRα相互作用解析

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：日本語  

エポキシド加水分解機能を持つタンパク質の分子進化的考察

記述言語：その他  

Molecular recognition of Immune cell surface receptors toward various ligands

記述言語：日本語  

脂質抗原提示分子CD1dによる抗原認識における種差

記述言語：日本語  

ヒトの自然免疫系を阻害する麻疹ウイルスV蛋白質の機能解析

記述言語：日本語  

慢性炎症関連因子ANGPTL2の免疫細胞受容体LILRB2結合部位の同定

記述言語：日本語  

毒ヘビ由来Ca2+チャネル阻害型神経毒と毒ヘビ血清蛋白質の複合体構造
ERp57, a member of the protein disulfide isomerase family, is a ubiquitous disulfide catalyst that functions in the oxidative folding of various clients in the mammalian endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In concert with ER lectin-like chaperones calnexin and calreticulin (CNX/CRT), ERp57 functions in virtually all folding stages from co-translation to post-translation, and thus plays a critical role in maintaining protein homeostasis, with direct implication for pathology. Here, we present mechanisms by which Ca2+ regulates the formation of the ERp57-calnexin complex. Biochemical and isothermal titration calorimetry analyses revealed that ERp57 strongly interacts with CNX via a non-covalent bond in the absence of Ca2+. The ERp57-CNX complex not only promoted the oxidative folding of human leukocyte antigen heavy chains, but also inhibited client aggregation. These results suggest that this complex performs both enzymatic and chaperoning functions under abnormal physiological conditions, such as Ca2+ depletion, to effectively guide proper oxidative protein folding. The findings shed light on the molecular mechanisms underpinning crosstalk between the chaperone network and Ca2+.

DOI： 10.3390/molecules26102853

記述言語：日本語  

狂犬病ウイルスP蛋白質によるJAK‐STATシグナル阻害機構の解明

記述言語：日本語  

NMRを用いた自然免疫受容体Mincleによる糖脂質認識機構の解析

記述言語：日本語  

細菌に分解された抗体の免疫活性化レセプターLILRA2による認識機構の解明

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：日本語  

細菌に分解された抗体の免疫活性化レセプターLILRA2による認識機構の解明

記述言語：日本語  

イヌジステンパーウイルスの株間の感染性の違いに着目したウイルスタンパク質と受容体の相互作用解析

記述言語：日本語  

HSV-1感染における糖ペプチドと免疫受容体PILRα相互作用解析

記述言語：日本語  

HSV‐1感染における糖ペプチドと免疫受容体PILRα相互作用解析

記述言語：日本語  

PILRαによる糖ペプチド認識機構の解明

記述言語：日本語  

PILRαによる糖ペプチド認識機構の解明

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：日本語  

●核酸アナログ製剤はB型肝炎ウイルスの逆転写酵素を阻害するが、アデホビル、テノホビルには、インターフェロン(interferon;IFN)-λ3を誘導するという追加効果がある。●誘導されたIFN-λ3は、HBs抗原産生を抑制し、ISG(IFN-stimulated genes;IFN誘導遺伝子)を誘導する。●アデホビル、テノホビルの単独療法によるHBs抗原もしくはdrug-offはまれであるので、さらに強力にIFN-λ3を誘導する薬剤などIFN-λ3を標的とした新規治療法の開発が期待される。(著者抄録)

記述言語：日本語  

●核酸アナログ製剤はB型肝炎ウイルスの逆転写酵素を阻害するが、アデホビル、テノホビルには、インターフェロン(interferon;IFN)-λ3を誘導するという追加効果がある。●誘導されたIFN-λ3は、HBs抗原産生を抑制し、ISG(IFN-stimulated genes;IFN誘導遺伝子)を誘導する。●アデホビル、テノホビルの単独療法によるHBs抗原もしくはdrug-offはまれであるので、さらに強力にIFN-λ3を誘導する薬剤などIFN-λ3を標的とした新規治療法の開発が期待される。(著者抄録)

記述言語：日本語  

免疫補助制御分子CD160とリガンドHVEMの分子認識機構に向けた研究

記述言語：英語  

HIV-2 Nefタンパク質のX線結晶構造

記述言語：日本語  

HLA‐Cw12拘束性HIV‐1ペプチドに対する宿主免疫受容体認識機構

記述言語：日本語  

PEG化タンパク質精製法の確立に向けた新規構造化PEG分子の設計と機能解析

記述言語：日本語  

ヒト免疫受容体NKRP1AによるリガンドLLT1の分子認識機構

記述言語：日本語  

免疫制御分子PILRαと免疫細胞分化マーカーCD45の相互作用解析

記述言語：日本語  

単純ヘルペスウイルス由来糖蛋白質がヒト受容体を認識するメカニズム

記述言語：日本語  

糖脂質α-GalCerを基盤とした脂質改変型CD1dリガンドの創製研究

記述言語：日本語  

狂犬病ウイルスの細胞吸着に関与する宿主因子の解析

記述言語：英語  

Examination of antiviral activity of 5-ethynyl-1-ribofuranosylimidazole-4-carboxamide(EICAR) against rabies virus in vitro(和訳中)

記述言語：英語  

In vitroでの狂犬病ウイルスに対する5-エチニル-1-リボフラノシルイミダゾール-4-カルボキサミド(EICAR)の抗ウイルス活性に関する検討(Examination of antiviral activity of 5-ethynyl-1-ribofuranosylimidazole-4-carboxamide(EICAR) against rabies virus in vitro)

記述言語：日本語  

狂犬病ウイルスの細胞吸着に関与する宿主因子の解析

記述言語：日本語  

ハブ血清蛋白質SSPの毒蛇CRISPsの阻害剤としての応用

記述言語：日本語  

WetとDryのコミュニケーションによるアカデミア創薬

記述言語：日本語  

麻疹ウイルスV蛋白質C末端領域の構造的特徴

記述言語：日本語  

CD1dの一本鎖化による安定化と結晶構造解析

記述言語：日本語  

インフルエンザウイルス細胞侵入において鍵となる宿主タンパク質の同定

記述言語：日本語  

インフルエンザウイルス細胞侵入において鍵となる宿主タンパク質の同定

記述言語：日本語  

トラスツズマブ一本鎖Fv抗体断片の構築および高機能化

記述言語：日本語  

分泌タンパク質ANGPTL2を介したシグナル伝達を阻害可能な低分子化合物探索

記述言語：日本語  

毒ヘビ神経毒とその内在性阻害蛋白質複合体の立体構造解析

記述言語：日本語  

細菌の抗体分解による免疫レセプター活性化の分子基盤

記述言語：日本語  

IFN‐lambdaを標的とした新規B型肝炎治療薬の探索

記述言語：日本語  

B型肝炎研究の新展開 IFN-lambdaを標的とした新規B型肝炎治療薬の探索

記述言語：日本語  

脂質抗原受容体CD1dの脂質認識部位に存在する親水性アミノ酸残基の機能解析とその制御

記述言語：日本語  

次世代のアカデミア創薬を担う若手の力 抗がん剤を目指した若手研究者連携による創薬スクリーニング

記述言語：日本語  

脂質結合タンパク質の構造生物学 最近の展開 自然免疫受容体Mincleの糖脂質認識機構

記述言語：日本語  

脂質結合タンパク質の構造生物学 最近の展開 脂質抗原受容体CD1dの脂質認識部位に存在する親水性アミノ酸残基の機能解析とその制御

記述言語：日本語  

脂質結合タンパク質の構造生物学 最近の展開 脂質-タンパク質相互作用の解明を目指した重原子化CD1dリガンドの合成と生理活性の評価

記述言語：日本語  

脂質‐タンパク質相互作用の解明を目指した重原子化CD1dリガンドの合成と生理活性の評価

記述言語：日本語  

緑膿菌のレクチンLecA・LecB阻害剤リード化合物の創製研究

記述言語：日本語  

免疫受容体Mincleによる糖脂質認識機構のNMR解析

記述言語：日本語  

悪性脳腫瘍治療を指向した新規ベンゾオキサゾール誘導体の合成と活性評価

記述言語：日本語  

糖脂質リガンドにおける脂質部位の構造展開を基盤とした新規CD1dリガンドの創製研究

記述言語：日本語  

HLAの立体構造と免疫制御受容体の分子認識機構

DOI： 10.12667/mhc.23.80

記述言語：日本語  

HLAの立体構造と免疫制御受容体の分子認識機構

DOI： 10.12667/mhc.23.80

記述言語：日本語  

記述言語：日本語  

HLAは非常に遺伝子多型性が高く,多数の遺伝子ファミリーを形成することによって多重性も獲得し,自己・非自己認識を担っている糖タンパク質である。通常,幅広い抗原由来のペプチドをT細胞へ提示するが,さらに,様々な免疫制御受容体との相互作用を介して免疫応答を多面的に調節し,個体の恒常性を維持していることが明らかになってきた。このようなHLAが持つ多面的機能の理解には,X線結晶構造解析による立体構造の決定や物理化学的な相互作用解析が大きな貢献を果たしてきた。本稿では,HLAの分子構造から特にHLAクラスIと受容体群との分子認識機構に着目し,どのようにHLAが免疫反応を制御しているかを概説するとともに,疾患との関連を考察する。(著者抄録)

DOI： 10.12667/mhc.23.80

記述言語：日本語  

脂質認識部位を制御する新規リガンドを用いたCD1dの機能解析

記述言語：日本語  

生体内AGE化タンパク質検出系の構築に向けた一本鎖抗体(scFv)の創製と評価

記述言語：日本語  

I型IFNシグナルを回避する麻疹ウイルスVタンパク質の分子基盤解析

記述言語：日本語  

NMRを用いた自然免疫受容体Mincleの糖脂質認識機構の解析

記述言語：日本語  

アンジオポエチン様因子Angptl2の結晶構造解析および免疫受容体LILRB2との相互作用解析

記述言語：日本語  

カイコバキュロウイルスを用いた新規Bacmamの開発

記述言語：日本語  

免疫疾患患者血清中のHLA‐Gの定量に向けた抗HLA‐G抗体の特性評価

記述言語：日本語  

可溶性HLA‐Gの製剤化に向けて

記述言語：日本語  

抗ウイルス感染症研究のフロンティア ウイルス侵入過程の重要性 モルビリウイルス属の細胞侵入機構の構造基盤と阻害剤開発

記述言語：日本語  

カイコバキュロウイルス発現系による急性骨髄性白血病に特異的なFLT3/ITDタンパク質の効率的な生産

記述言語：日本語  

ガレクチン‐3阻害剤の創薬研究

記述言語：日本語  

単純ヘルペスウイルス感染阻害活性を示す糖ペプチドの合成研究

記述言語：日本語  

小胞体ストレスタンパク質を標的とした抗癌剤スクリーニング

記述言語：英語  

糖鎖を作る・読む・壊す分子システム ヒト免疫系受容体PILRの糖ペプチド認識機構

記述言語：日本語  

(プロ)レニン受容体の調製と機能評価系の構築

記述言語：日本語  

Lectin‐like transcript1(LLT1)C型レクチン様ドメインの結晶構造解析

記述言語：英語  

PEG化タンパク質の精製に向けた新規PEG化試薬の設計

記述言語：日本語  

カイコバキュロウイルスを用いた新規Bacmamの開発