Lactoferrin and Its Derived Peptides: An Alternative for Combating Virulence Mechanisms Developed by Pathogens.

Due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens, it is necessary to develop options to fight infections caused by these agents. Lactoferrin (Lf) is a cationic nonheme multifunctional glycoprotein of the innate immune system of mammals that provides numerous benefits. Lf is bacteriostatic and/or bactericidal, can stimulate cell proliferation and differentiation, facilitate iron absorption, improve neural development and cognition, promote bone growth, prevent cancer and exert anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects. Lactoferrin is present in colostrum and milk and is also produced by the secondary granules of polymorphonuclear leukocytes, which store this glycoprotein and release it at sites of infection. Lf is also present in many fluids and exocrine secretions, on the surfaces of the digestive, respiratory and reproductive systems that are commonly exposed to pathogens. Apo-Lf (an iron-free molecule) can be microbiostatic due to its ability to capture ferric iron, blocking the availability of host iron to pathogens. However, apo-Lf is mostly microbicidal via its interaction with the microbial surface, causing membrane damage and altering its permeability function. Lf can inhibit viral entry by binding to cell receptors or viral particles. Lf is also able to counter different important mechanisms evolved by microbial pathogens to infect and invade the host, such as adherence, colonization, invasion, production of biofilms and production of virulence factors such as proteases and toxins. Lf can also cause mitochondrial and caspase-dependent regulated cell death and apoptosis-like in pathogenic yeasts. All of these mechanisms are important targets for treatment with Lf. Holo-Lf (the iron-saturated molecule) can contain up to two ferric ions and can also be microbicidal against some pathogens. On the other hand, lactoferricins (Lfcins) are peptides derived from the N-terminus of Lf that are produced by proteolysis with pepsin under acidic conditions, and they cause similar effects on pathogens to those caused by the parental Lf. Synthetic analog peptides comprising the N-terminus Lf region similarly exhibit potent antimicrobial properties. Importantly, there are no reported pathogens that are resistant to Lf and Lfcins; in addition, Lf and Lfcins have shown a synergistic effect with antimicrobial and antiviral drugs. Due to the Lf properties being microbiostatic, microbicidal, anti-inflammatory and an immune modulator, it represents an excellent natural alternative either alone or as adjuvant in the combat to antibiotic multidrug-resistant bacteria and other pathogens. This review aimed to evaluate the data that appeared in the literature about the effects of Lf and its derived peptides on pathogenic bacteria, protozoa, fungi and viruses and how Lf and Lfcins inhibit the mechanisms developed by these pathogens to cause disease.

A role for ß-dystroglycan in the organization and structure of the nucleus in myoblasts.

We recently characterized a nuclear import pathway for ß-dystroglycan; however, its nuclear role remains unknown. In this study, we demonstrate for the first time, the interaction of ß-dystroglycan with distinct proteins from different nuclear compartments, including the nuclear envelope (NE) (emerin and lamins A/C and B1), splicing speckles (SC35), Cajal bodies (p80-coilin), and nucleoli (Nopp140). Electron microscopy analysis revealed that ß-dystroglycan localized in the inner nuclear membrane, nucleoplasm, and nucleoli. Interestingly, downregulation of ß-dystroglycan resulted in both mislocalization and decreased expression of emerin and lamin B1, but not lamin A/C, as well in disorganization of nucleoli, Cajal bodies, and splicing speckles with the concomitant decrease in the levels of Nopp140, and p80-coilin, but not SC35. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR and cycloheximide-mediated protein arrest assays revealed that ß-dystroglycan deficiency did not change mRNA expression of NE proteins emerin and lamin B1 bud did alter their stability, accelerating protein turnover. Furthermore, knockdown of ß-dystroglycan disrupted NE-mediated processes including nuclear morphology and centrosome-nucleus linkage, which provides evidence that ß-dystroglycan association with NE proteins is biologically relevant. Unexpectedly, ß-dystroglycan-depleted cells exhibited multiple centrosomes, a characteristic of cancerous cells. Overall, these findings imply that ß-dystroglycan is a nuclear scaffolding protein involved in nuclear organization and NE structure and function, and that might be a contributor to the biogenesis of nuclear envelopathies.

Antiprotozoan lead discovery by aligning dry and wet screening: prediction, synthesis, and biological assay of novel quinoxalinones.

Protozoan parasites have been one of the most significant public health problems for centuries and several human infections caused by them have massive global impact. Most of the current drugs used to treat these illnesses have been used for decades and have many limitations such as the emergence of drug resistance, severe side-effects, low-to-medium drug efficacy, administration routes, cost, etc. These drugs have been largely neglected as models for drug development because they are majorly used in countries with limited resources and as a consequence with scarce marketing possibilities. Nowadays, there is a pressing need to identify and develop new drug-based antiprotozoan therapies. In an effort to overcome this problem, the main purpose of this study is to develop a QSARs-based ensemble classifier for antiprotozoan drug-like entities from a heterogeneous compounds collection. Here, we use some of the TOMOCOMD-CARDD molecular descriptors and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) to derive individual linear classification functions in order to discriminate between antiprotozoan and non-antiprotozoan compounds as a way to enable the computational screening of virtual combinatorial datasets and/or drugs already approved. Firstly, we construct a wide-spectrum benchmark database comprising of 680 organic chemicals with great structural variability (254 of them antiprotozoan agents and 426 to drugs having other clinical uses). This series of compounds was processed by a k-means cluster analysis in order to design training and predicting sets. In total, seven discriminant functions were obtained, by using the whole set of atom-based linear indices. All the LDA-based QSAR models show accuracies above 85% in the training set and values of Matthews correlation coefficients (C) vary from 0.70 to 0.86. The external validation set shows rather-good global classifications of around 80% (92.05% for best equation). Later, we developed a multi-agent QSAR classification system, in which the individual QSAR outputs are the inputs of the aforementioned fusion approach. Finally, the fusion model was used for the identification of a novel generation of lead-like antiprotozoan compounds by using ligand-based virtual screening of 'available' small molecules (with synthetic feasibility) in our 'in-house' library. A new molecular subsystem (quinoxalinones) was then theoretically selected as a promising lead series, and its derivatives subsequently synthesized, structurally characterized, and experimentally assayed by using in vitro screening that took into consideration a battery of five parasite-based assays. The chemicals 11(12) and 16 are the most active (hits) against apicomplexa (sporozoa) and mastigophora (flagellata) subphylum parasites, respectively. Both compounds depicted good activity in every protozoan in vitro panel and they did not show unspecific cytotoxicity on the host cells. The described technical framework seems to be a promising QSAR-classifier tool for the molecular discovery and development of novel classes of broad-antiprotozoan-spectrum drugs, which may meet the dual challenges posed by drug-resistant parasites and the rapid progression of protozoan illnesses.

Haemostatic role of intermediate filaments in adhered platelets: importance of the membranous system stability.

The role of platelets in coagulation and the haemostatic process was initially suggested two centuries ago, and under appropriate physiological stimuli, these undergo abrupt morphological changes, attaching and spreading on damaged endothelium, preventing bleeding. During the adhesion process, platelet cytoskeleton reorganizes generating compartments in which actin filaments, microtubules, and associated proteins are arranged in characteristic patterns mediating crucial events, such as centralization of their organelles, secretion of granule contents, aggregation with one another to form a haemostatic plug, and retraction of these aggregates. However, the role of Intermediate filaments during the platelet adhesion process has not been explored. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 2050-2060, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Actin filaments and microtubule dual-granule transport in human adhered platelets: the role of alpha-dystrobrevins.

Upon activation with physiological stimuli, human platelets undergo morphological changes, centralizing their organelles and secreting effector molecules at the site of vascular injury. Previous studies have indicated that the actin filaments and microtubules of suspension-activated platelets play a critical role in granule movement and exocytosis; however, the participation of these cytoskeleton elements in adhered platelets remains unexplored. alpha- and beta-dystrobrevin members of the dystrophin-associated protein complex in muscle and non-muscle cells have been described as motor protein receptors that might participate in the transport of cellular components in neurons. Recently, we characterized the expression of dystrobrevins in platelets; however, their functional diversity within this cellular model had not been elucidated. The present study examined the contribution of actin filaments and microtubules in granule trafficking during the platelet adhesion process using cytoskeleton-disrupting drugs, quantification of soluble P-selectin, fluorescence resonance transfer energy analysis and immunoprecipitation assays. Likewise, we assessed the interaction of alpha-dystrobrevins with the ubiquitous kinesin heavy chain. Our results strongly suggest that microtubules and actin filaments participate in the transport of alpha and dense granules in the platelet adhesion process, during which alpha-dystrobrevins play the role of regulatory and adaptor proteins that govern trafficking events.

Neuronal differentiation modulates the dystrophin Dp71d binding to the nuclear matrix.

The function of dystrophin Dp71 in neuronal cells remains unknown. To approach this issue, we have selected the PC12 neuronal cell line. These cells express both a Dp71f cytoplasmic variant and a Dp71d nuclear isoform. In this study, we demonstrated by electron and confocal microscopy analyses of in situ nuclear matrices and Western blotting evaluation of cell extracts that Dp71d associates with the nuclear matrix. Interestingly, this binding is modulated during NGF-induced neuronal differentiation of PC12 cells with a twofold increment in the differentiated cells, compared to control cells. Also, distribution of Dp71d along the periphery of the nuclear matrix observed in the undifferentiated cells is replaced by intense fluorescent foci localized in the center of the nucleoskeletal structure. In summary, we revealed that Dp71d is a dynamic component of nuclear matrix that might participate in the nuclear modeling occurring during neuronal differentiation.

Functional domains of the Toxoplasma GRA2 protein in the formation of the membranous nanotubular network of the parasitophorous vacuole.

Amphipathic alpha-helices have been proposed as the general means used by soluble proteins to induce membrane tubulation. Previous studies had shown that the GRA2 dense granule protein of Toxoplasma gondii would be a crucial protein for the formation of the intravacuolar membranous nanotubular network (MNN) and that one of the functions of the MNN is to organise the parasites within the parasitophorous vacuole. GRA2 is a small protein (185 amino acids), predicted to contain three amphipathic alpha-helices (alpha1: 70-92; alpha2: 95-110 and alpha3: 119-139) when using the standard programs of secondary structure prediction. To investigate the respective contribution of each alpha-helix in the GRA2 functions, we used DeltaGRA2-HXGPRT knock-out complementation: eight truncated forms of GRA2 were expressed in the deleted recipient and the phenotypes of these mutants were analysed. This study showed that: (i) alpha3, when associated with the N-terminal region (NT) and the C-terminal region (CT), is sufficient to target the protein to the parasite posterior end and to induce formation of membranous vesicles within the vacuole. However, when associated only with CT, alpha3 is not sufficient to provide the hydrophobicity required for membrane association; (ii) the alpha1alpha2 region is alone not sufficient to induce membrane tubulation within the PV; and (iii) only one mutant, NT-alpha1alpha2alpha3, restores most of the biochemical and functional properties of GRA2, including traffic to the dense granules, secretion into the vacuole, association with vacuolar membranes, induction of the MNN formation and organisation of the parasites within the vacuole.

Utrophins compensate for Dp71 absence in mdx3cv in adhered platelets.

Platelet adhesion is a critical step due to its hemostatic role in stopping bleeding after vascular damage. Short dystrophins are the most abundant dmd gene products in nonmuscle tissues, and in association with cytoskeleton proteins contribute to their intrinsic function; while utrophins are dystrophin-homologous related family proteins with structural and functional similarities. We previously demonstrated the presence of Dp71 isoforms, utrophins, and various dystrophin-associated proteins and their participation in cytoskeleton re-organization, filopodia and lamellipodia extension, and in centralizing cytoplasmic granules during the adhesion process of human platelets. To evaluate the morphologic changes and actin-based structures of mdx(3cv) platelets during the adhesion process, we compared the topographic distribution of Dp71d/Dp71Delta110(m) and dystrophin-associated protein in adhered platelets from dystrophic mdx(3cv) mouse. By confocal microscopy, we showed that absence of Dp71 isoforms in platelets from this animal model disrupted dystrophin-associated protein expression and distribution without modifying the platelet morphology displayed during the glass-adhesion process. By immunoprecipitation assays, we proved that up-regulated utrophins were associated with dystrophin-associated proteins to conform the dystrophin-associated protein complex corresponding to utrophins, which might compensate for Dp71 absence in mdx(3cv) platelets.

In-vitro model for the ultrastructural study of the formation of thrombi in human platelets.

Platelets are cell fragments with dynamic properties involved in clot formation after tissue damage. Platelet activation causes a change in shape, secretion of intracellular granules and aggregation with each other through the cytoskeleton components and biochemical changes. Platelet adhesion, considered as the major event in haemostasis, has been studied in several in-vitro and in-vivo models to evaluate the feasible thrombogenicity of some materials, the dynamics of specific receptors, as well as the effect of different buffers and inhibitors in this process. In spite of the numerous reports about platelet activation, to date there is no information available about the fine structure of the platelet-platelet and platelet-substrate interactions. In the present report we describe an in-vitro system that allows the visualization of these interactions: platelets are adhered to an inert substrate, and interactions with suspended platelets as a process to initiate the formation of thrombi was followed by ultramicrotomy and transmission electron microscopy.

Platelet adhesion: structural and functional diversity of short dystrophin and utrophins in the formation of dystrophin-associated-protein complexes related to actin dynamics.

Platelets are dynamic cell fragments that modify their shape during activation. Utrophin and dystrophins are minor actin-binding proteins present in muscle and non-muscle cytoskeleton. In the present study, we characterised the pattern of Dp71 isoforms and utrophin gene products by immunoblot in human platelets. Two new dystrophin isoforms were found, Dp71f and Dp71 d, as well as the Up71 isoform and the dystrophin-associated proteins, alpha and beta -dystrobrevins. Distribution of Dp71d/Dp71delta110m, Up400/Up71 and dystrophin-associated proteins in relation to the actin cytoskeleton was evaluated by confocal microscopy in both resting and platelets adhered on glass. Formation of two dystrophin-associated protein complexes (Dp71d/Dp71delta110m approximately DAPC and Up400/Up71 approximately DAPC) was demonstrated by co-immunoprecipitation and their distribution in relation to the actin cytoskeleton was characterised during platelet adhesion. The Dp71d/Dp71delta100m approximately DAPC is maintained mainly at the granulomere and is associated with dynamic structures during activation by adhesion to thrombin-coated surfaces. Participation of both Dp71d/Dp71delta110m approximately DAPC and Up400/Up71 approximately DAPC in the biological roles of the platelets is discussed.

Identification and purification of actin from the subpellicular network of Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites.

Toxoplasma gondii infects cells through dynamic events dependent on actin. Although the presence of cortical actin has been widely suggested, visualisation and localisation of actin filaments has not been reported. The subpellicular cytoskeleton network is a recently described structure possibly involved in the dynamic events. Using non-ionic detergent extractions, the cortical cytoskeleton network was enriched and used for the isolation and identification of actin. Actin was detected by Western blots in extracts of cytoskeleton networks, and it was localised by gold staining in the network and in both the apical end and the posterior polar ring. Actin was isolated from subpellicular cytoskeleton extracts by binding to DNase I, and it polymerised in vitro as filaments that were gold-decorated by a monoclonal anti-actin antibody. Filaments bound the subfragment 1 of heavy meromyosin, although with atypical arrangements in comparison with the arrowheads observed in muscle actin filaments. Treatment with cytochalasin D and colchicine altered the structural organisation of the subpellicular network indicating the participation of actin filaments and microtubules in the maintenance of its structure. Actin filaments and microtubules, in the subpellicular network, participate reciprocally in the maintaining of the parasite's shape and the gliding motility.

Actin, myosin, cytokeratins and spectrin are components of the guinea pig sperm nuclear matrix.

The nuclear matrix (NM) of somatic cells is an internal nuclear framework structure, with a structural function and participation in DNA replication and transcription. The NM has been described in mouse, hamster and human spermatozoa. In this study, an NM structural component of the guinea pig sperm nucleus was obtained by removing nuclear proteins and DNA from DTT-CTAB nuclei. Removal was achieved with high ionic strength salt and microccocal nuclease treatments including a heparin treatment to cause a slight swelling of the nucleus and facilitate material extraction. Actin, myosin, cytokeratins and spectrin were detected associated to NM by indirect immunofluorescence, immunogold staining and Western blotting analysis using specific antibodies. The presence of NM in guinea pig sperm nucleus is shown for the first time and some of its components are identified. This is also the first report on cytokeratins and myosin presence in guinea pig sperm. A retarding effect of nuclear decondensation caused by heparin is induced after phalloidin and/or diacetyl-monoxime (a myosin ATPase activity inhibitor) treatment, suggesting a role for F-actin and myosin in the maintenance of nuclear stability in sperm. The actin role was supported by the decondensing effect that citochalasin D and gelsolin had on sperm nuclei.

Physical, structural, and functional properties of the beta1 integrin-like fibronectin receptor (beta1EhFNR) in Entamoeba histolytica.

The presence in Entamoeba histolytica of a fibronectin (FN) receptor, which is antigenically related to beta1 integrin-like molecules and shows 99% homology with the intermediate subunit-2 of the Gal/GalNAc-specific lectin has been described. The E. histolytica genome has been sequenced, and its analysis shows no integrin sequences. Here we provide further evidence to demonstrate that this molecule behaves as integrin-like in its physical, structural and functional properties. The purified beta1EhFNR complex is resolved into three polypeptides of 150, 140, and 130 kDa. Transmission electron microscopy showed individual complexes consisting of oblong heads of 3 nm x 4 nm and two projecting arms 6-7 nm in length. In the absence of detergent, these complexes formed aggregates that were composed of clusters or "rosettes" of between two and six or more beta1EhFNR complexes. The physical properties of the purified beta1EhFNR complexes were: R(S)=5.8 nm, S(20)W=8.3, f/f(0)=1.4. This complex was seen in close physical association with adhesion plates and phagocytic invaginations, using confocal microscopy and the 3C10 mAb that recognizes these three subunits complex. Regulation of its surface expression is not dependent on protein synthesis; rather it is regulated by inward and outward mobilization of the molecules. The presence and antigenic similarity of putative beta1EhFNRs in different strains and species of Entamoeba was analyzed using the 3C10 mAb; this mAb recognized the complex in all E. histolytica species, however there was no recognition in E. dispar, E. invadens, and Laredo strains. Finally, evidence is provided about post-translational modifications such as tyrosine phosphorylation and glycosylation suffered by the beta1EhFNR complex.

Subcellular localization and dynamics of a digalactolipid-like epitope in Toxoplasma gondii.

Toxoplasma gondii is a unicellular parasite characterized by unique extracellular and intracellular membrane compartments. The lipid composition of subcellular membranes has not been determined, limiting our understanding of lipid homeostasis, control, and trafficking, a series of processes involved in pathogenesis. In addition to a mitochondrion, Toxoplasma contains a plastid called the apicoplast. The occurrence of a plastid raised the question of the presence of chloroplast galactolipids. Using three independent rabbit and rat antibodies against digalactosyldiacylglycerol (DGDG) from plant chloroplasts, we detected a class of Toxoplasma lipids harboring a digalactolipid-like epitope (DGLE). Immunolabeling characterization supports the notion that the DGLE polar head is similar to that of DGDG. Mass spectrometry analyses indicated that dihexosyl lipids having various hydrophobic moieties (ceramide, diacylglycerol, and acylalkylglycerol) might react with anti-DGDG, but we cannot exclude the possibility that more complex dihexosyl-terminated lipids might also be immunolabeled. DGLE localization was analyzed by immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy and confirmed by subcellular fractionation. No immunolabeling of the apicoplast could be observed. DGLE was scattered in pellicle membrane domains in extracellular tachyzoites and was relocalized to the anterior tip of the cell upon invasion in an actin-dependent manner, providing insights on a possible role in pathogenetic processes. DGLE was detected in other Apicomplexa (i.e., Neospora, Plasmodium, Babesia, and Cryptosporidium).

Role of dystrophins and utrophins in platelet adhesion process.

Platelets are crucial at the site of vascular injury, adhering to the sub-endothelial matrix through receptors on their surface, leading to cell activation and aggregation to form a haemostatic plug. Platelets display focal adhesions as well as stress fibres to contract and facilitate expulsion of growth and pro-coagulant factors contained in the granules and to constrict the clot. The interaction of F-actin with different actin-binding proteins determines the properties and composition of the focal adhesions. Recently, we demonstrated the presence of dystrophin-associated protein complex corresponding to short dystrophin isoforms (Dp71d and Dp71) and the uthophin gene family (Up400 and Up71), which promote shape change, adhesion, aggregation, and granule centralisation. To elucidate participation of both complexes during the platelet adhesion process, their potential association with integrin beta-1 fraction and the focal adhesion system (alpha-actinin, vinculin and talin) was evaluated by immunofluorescence and immunoprecipitation assays. It was shown that the short dystrophin-associated protein complex participated in stress fibre assembly and in centralisation of cytoplasmic granules, while the utrophin-associated protein complex assembled and regulated focal adhesions. The simultaneous presence of dystrophin and utrophin complexes indicates complementary structural and signalling mechanisms to the actin network, improving the platelet haemostatic role.

Modification of actin, myosin and tubulin distribution during cytoplasmic granule movements associated with platelet adhesion.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Cytoskeletal elements determine the changes in platelet cell shape which occur during adhesion, aggregation and release of granular contents as part of the activation process. The aim of this study was to characterize the changes in the distribution of actin filaments, myosin and tubulin molecules during several stages of platelet adhesion to glass and their association with granule displacement, as assessed by confocal microscopy. DESIGN AND METHODS: Platelets obtained from healthy donors were adhered to glass and cytoskeleton distribution was characterized and correlated to changes of cell shape and intracellular granule displacement by immunofluorescence assays and phase contrast microscopy. Treatment with specific cytoskeleton inhibitors such as cytochalasin D, butanedione monoxime and colchicine were used before and after the adhesion process. The spatial distribution of the cytoskeleton in association with cytoplasmic granules was analyzed in both confocal microscopy projections and three-dimensional images obtained by merging the respective projections. RESULTS: Our experiments revealed that as platelets contact the substrate, a sequential and simultaneous rearrangement of actin filaments, myosin and tubulin molecules occurred and this was related to cell shape, as well as to movements of cytoplasmic granules. Treatment of platelets with cytoskeleton inhibitors, modified not only the target molecule but also other cytoskeletal components with consequent alterations in the studied platelet functions. INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSIONS: During platelet adhesion to glass and granule displacement, a close spatial and functional relation between actin filaments, myosin molecules and microtubules was observed suggesting that these different cytoskeleton components interact in supporting the platelet functions here studied.

2,3-butanedione monoxime (BDM), a potent inhibitor of actin-myosin interaction, induces ion and fluid transport in MDCK monolayers.

Membrane-cytoskeleton interactions have been shown to be crucial to modulate polarity, cell shape and the paracellular pathway in epithelial MDCK cell monolayers. In particular, actin organization and myosin-dependent contractility play an important role in the regulation of these functions. Participation of myosin in vectorial transport, expressed as formation of domes, was investigated in confluent monolayers of high transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) plated on non-permeable supports. Cells exposed to 2,3-butanedione monoxime, a selective inhibitor of myosin ATPase, showed a remarkable increase in the number of domes. Replacement of extracellular Na+ and Cl- and inhibition of Na+-K+-ATPase blocked the induction of domes. The monoxime also caused a reduction of the TER leading to an increase in the paracellular flux of small molecular weight dextran. However, immunofluorescence microscopy of drug-treated cells showed that the localization and staining pattern of tight junction proteins ZO-1, occludin, and claudin 1, or the actin-myosin ring at the zonula adherens, were not modified. Treatment with the drug produced striking re-arrangements of actin filaments at the microvilli and at the basal level of the cells. Our data show that disruption of actin-myosin interaction at several cellular sites contributed importantly to the increased transport activity and the formation of the domes. These results point to the relevant role or actin-myosin dynamics and actin organization in the regulation of ion and water channel activity in these cells.

Actin-related proteins in Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae and their interactions with actin-binding proteins.

A group of prokaryotic actin-related proteins (PARP) with an Mr of 43000 was detected in Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. These proteins were enriched by a depolymerization/polymerization cycle, under similar conditions to those used to polymerize muscle actin, and purified by affinity chromatography on a DNase I-Sepharose column. Three isoforms of A. pleuropneumoniae PARP (Ap-PARP) with pI values of 5.8, 6.15 and 6.2 were detected. Ap-PARP were recognized by four different anti-actin antibodies (one anti-muscle and three anti-cytoplasmic isoforms). Ap-PARP were also recognized by antibodies against Anabaena variabilis PARP (Av-PARP) and against actin-binding proteins such as alpha-actinin and spectrin, and also by a monoclonal antibody against heat-shock cognate protein 70 (Hsc70). Specific binding of phalloidin to Ap-PARP was detected both in permeabilized cells and in vitro. Purified Ap-PARP can polymerize under similar conditions to those required for skeletal muscle actin polymerization and the filaments formed appear to be decorated with myosin subfragment-1(S1) as observed by transmission electron microscopy. The amino acid composition of Ap-PARP revealed more similarities to muscle gamma-actin and the cytoplasmic beta-actin isoform than to eukaryotic actin-related proteins.

Myosin I interactions with actin filaments and trans-golgi-derived vesicles in MDCK cell monolayers

In MDCK cell cultured monolayers, as well as in natural and other cultured epithelia, the proper organization of the actin filament ring, tethered to the plasma memebrane at the zonula adhaerens, is apparently necessary for their functioning as a transporting epithelium. It has been proposed that actin filaments, in conjunction with motor proteins, could provide the structural basis that regulates the tight junction (TJ) sealing capacity as well as the transport of memebrane-tagged proteins required for cell polarization. To test this hypothesis, the authors analyzed the localization and possible association ot the actin binding motor protein myosin I with actin filaments during changes in the actin ring position and organization, and also with tran-Golgi-derived vesicle. Modifications of the ring were induced subjecting the cells to external Ca²+ switch), or by treatment with drugs known to depolymerize actin filament (cytochalasin D, CD). The distribution of myosin I and actin, both in intact cells and in cellular fractions, was monitored using heterlogous cross-reacting antibodies and phalloidin. The authors identified an isoform of myosin I of approximately 110-125 KDa, homologus to myosin IB of Acanthamoeba, a fraction of wich colocalized with the peripheral actin ring. The association seems transient as, once the ring retracted as result of Ca²+ depletion, or became disroganized by CD, myosin not longer colocalized with the actin fibers but appeared dispersed in the cytoplasm. Furthermore, a signficant fraction of the total myosin I in the cell was associated to Golgi-derived vesicles which could also associate in vitro with actin filaments. The authors' data support, then, the participation of myosin I, in association with actin filaments, in vesicle translocation to and from the cell membrane as proposed for natural epithelia, and provide a further insigh into the structural organization that maintains epithelial cell polatiry in cultured monolayers

Situaciones cotidianas y separación madre-infante en los macacos cola de muñón (macaca-arctoides) en cautiveiro / Daily situacions and separations betwen mother-infant Macaca-arctoides in confinement

En el presente trabajo se muestra cómo influyen las situaciones cotidianas sobre el proceso de independización de los infantes Macaca arctoides. En general, la relación que estblecen madre e infante, en los primates no-humanos, es compleja, siendo mucho mas que una situación pasiva de confort y sustento. Por un lado la madre, además de proporcionar el sostén biológico indispensable para la supervivencia del infante (alimento, calor, etc), va a contribuir activamente al desarrollo social del crío, regulando y promoviendo las interacciones con otros miembros del grupo. El infante, a su vez, intercambia con su madre una gran cantidad de conductas afiliativas y la apoya en enfrentamientos con otros monos. Así, se establece entre madre y párvulo una relación mutualista, en la que ambos van a salir favorecidos al interactuar. Sin embargo, el infante es otro individuo más dentro del grupo, con necesidades de espacio y alimentación similares al resto de los sujetos. Aun cuando durante algún tempo después del parto el crio por requerirá de otros recursos diferentes de aquellos que le proporcione la madre, al ir madurando e integrándose al grupo tendrá que competir para procurarse el sustento. De esta manera, como parte del proceso de independización, el infante y su madre entran en conflicto por el acceso a los recursos ambientales. Al analizar el distanciamiento entre madres e infantes de diferentes edades, durante tres situaciones cotidianas que implican diferentes niveles de competencia, se encontró que el proceso de independización varia significativamente. Durante la hora de la comida (período cotidiano diurno cuando la competencia entre los monos en cuativeiro es máxima) se acelera la separación entre las madres y los infantes. De esta manera, durante la hora de la comida, los infantes macacos cola de muñón alcanzan rápidamente valores de distanciamiento máximo respecto a sus madres, los cuales, durante otras fases del día, se registrarán varios meses después