Beta Amyloid Peptide: Research Paper : Effects of Detergent on α-Synuclein Structure. A Native MS-Ion Mobility Study

Effects of Detergent on α-Synuclein Structure. A Native MS-Ion Mobility Study

Abstract

The intrinsically disordered protein α-synuclein plays a major role in Parkinson's disease. The protein can oligomerize resulting in the formation of various aggregated species in neuronal cells, leading to neurodegeneration. The interaction of α-synuclein with biological cell membranes plays an important role for specific functions of α-synuclein monomers, e.g., in neurotransmitter release. Using different types of detergents to mimic lipid molecules present in biological membranes, including the presence of Ca2+ ions as an important structural factor, we aimed to gain an understanding of how α-synuclein interacts with membrane models and how this affects the protein conformation and potential oligomerization. We investigated detergent binding stoichiometry, affinity and conformational changes of α-synuclein taking detergent concentration, different detergent structures and charges into account. With native nano-electrospray ionization ion mobility-mass spectrometry, we were able to detect unique conformational patterns resulting from binding of specific detergents to α-synuclein. Our data demonstrate that α-synuclein monomers can interact with detergent molecules irrespective of their charge, that protein-micelle interactions occur and that micelle properties are an important factor.

Keywords: detergent micelles; electrospray ionization; intrinsically disordered protein; ion mobility; ligand binding; mass spectrometry; membrane interaction; protein conformation; α-synuclein.

This article originally appeared in the "https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33114222/" and has their copyrights. We do not claim copyright on the content. This information is for research purposes only. This Blog is made available by publishers for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding , not to provide specific advice. By using this blog site you understand that there is no client relationship between you and the Blog publisher. The Blog should not be used as a substitute for competent research advice.