Biology subjects

Abzalimov, R. R.

Publications and source records attributed to Abzalimov, R. R..

4 recordsLinked to original sources

bioRxiv2026

Structural Basis of a Novel Heme Binding Bacterial One-Component Switch

One-component systems (OCSs) integrate sensory and effector functions within a single protein, enabling rapid gene expression changes in response to environmental cues. Here, we characterized a novel heme binding OCS protein, FG214, from Fimbriimonas ginsengisoli, a redox-regulated helix-turn-helix transcription factor in which heme iron ligand state controls a monomer-to-dimer switch. Data supporting this included our observation of the FG214 PAS domain binding a hexacoordinate heme b in oxidized conditions and undergoing a slate of redox and ligand-dependent conformational changes, transitioning from a monomer to a homodimer. Spectroscopic and structural data revealed that oxidation stabilizes the likely HTH-PAS intramolecular domain interface, while reduction of the heme iron dissociates the HTH, freeing previously-sequestered homodimerization surfaces. Similar effects were seen by addition of a small molecule ferric heme ligand, as directly visualized with a 1.47 [A] crystal structure of an imidazole-bound truncated construct. Using in vitro DNA-binding assays, we identified an artificial promoter sequence and demonstrated ligand-enhanced protein-DNA binding. Finally, we performed in vivo proof of concept experiments establishing FG214 as a redox-sensitive scaffold for biosensor engineering. Together, these findings define FG214 as a novel heme-binding PAS DNA binding protein, complementing known heme-PAS two-component signaling switches.

biochemistry↗

bioRxiv2024

Variations in kinase and effector signaling logic in a two component signaling network

The general stress response (GSR) protects bacteria from a wide range of stressors. In Alphaproteobacteria, GSR activation is coordinated by HWE/HisKA2 family histidine kinases (HKs), which can exhibit non-canonical structure and function. For example, while most light-oxygen-voltage sensor-containing HKs are light activated dimers, the Rubellimicrobium thermophilum RT-HK has inverted "dark on, light off" signaling logic with a tunable monomer/dimer equilibrium. Here, we further investigate these atypical behaviors of RT-HK and characterize its downstream signaling network. Using hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry, we find that RT-HK uses a signal transduction mechanism similar to light-activated systems, despite its inverted logic. Mutagenesis reveals that RT-HK autophosphorylates in trans, with changes to the J helix linking sensor and kinase domains affecting autophosphorylation levels. Exploring downstream effects of RT-HK, we identified two GSR genetic regions, each encoding a copy of the central regulator PhyR. In vitro measurements of phosphotransfer from RT-HK to the two putative PhyRs revealed that RT-HK signals only to one, and does so at an increased intensity in the dark, consistent with its reversed logic. X-ray crystal structures of both PhyRs revealed a substantial shift within the receiver domain of one, suggesting a basis for RT-HK specificity. We probed further down the pathway using nuclear magnetic resonance to determine that the single NepR homolog interacts with both unphosphorylated PhyRs, and this interaction is decoupled from activation in one PhyR. This work expands our understanding of HWE/HisKA2 family signal transduction, revealing marked variations from signaling mechanisms previously identified in other GSR networks.

biochemistry↗

bioRxiv2024

Beta-arrestin 1 mediated Src activation via Src SH3 domain revealed by cryo-electron microscopy

Beta-arrestins ({beta}arrs) are key regulators and transducers of G-protein coupled receptor signaling; however, little is known of how {beta}arrs communicate with their downstream effectors. Here, we report the first structural insights into the fundamental mechanisms driving {beta}arr-mediated signal transduction. Using cryo-electron microscopy, we elucidate how {beta}arr1 recruits and activates the non-receptor tyrosine kinase Src, the first identified signaling partner of {beta}arrs. {beta}arr1 engages Src SH3 through two distinct sites, each employing a different recognition mechanism: a polyproline motif in the N-domain and a non-proline-based interaction in the central crest region. At both sites {beta}arr1 interacts with the aromatic surface of SH3, disrupting the autoinhibited conformation of Src and directly triggering its allosteric activation. This structural evidence establishes {beta}arr1 as an active regulatory protein rather than a passive scaffold and suggests a potentially general mechanism for {beta}arr-mediated signaling across diverse effectors.

biochemistry↗

bioRxiv2023

Native dynamics and allosteric responses in PTP1B probed by high-resolution HDX-MS

Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) is a validated therapeutic target for obesity, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. In particular, allosteric inhibitors hold potential for therapeutic use, but an incomplete understanding of conformational dynamics and allostery in this protein has hindered their development. Here, we interrogate solution dynamics and allosteric responses in PTP1B using high-resolution hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS), an emerging and powerful biophysical technique. Using HDX-MS, we obtain a detailed map of the solution dynamics of apo PTP1B, revealing several flexible loops interspersed among more constrained and rigid regions within the protein structure, as well as local regions that exchange faster than expected from their secondary structure and buriedness. We demonstrate that our HDX rate data obtained in solution adds value to predictions of dynamics derived from a pseudo-ensemble constructed from [~]200 crystal structures of PTP1B. Furthermore, we report HDX-MS maps for PTP1B with active-site vs. allosteric small-molecule inhibitors. These maps reveal distinct, dramatic, and widespread effects on protein dynamics relative to the apo form, including changes to dynamics in locations distal (>35 [A]) from the respective ligand binding sites. These results help shed light on the allosteric nature of PTP1B and the surprisingly far-reaching consequences of inhibitor binding in this important protein. Overall, our work showcases the potential of HDX-MS for elucidating protein conformational dynamics and allosteric effects of small-molecule ligands, and highlights the potential of integrating HDX-MS alongside other complementary methods to guide the development of new therapeutics.

biophysics↗