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Introduction: The p.(Arg85Trp) variant-specific phenotype of hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha shows a complex clinical picture affecting three different organ systems and their corresponding metabolisms. Little is known about the molecular mechanisms involved and their relationship with the diverse symptoms seen in the context of this specific variant. Here, we present data of a new patient that expand the clinical phenotype, suggesting possible disease mechanisms. Case Presentation: Clinical data were extracted from the patient’s charts. The liver, kidney, and muscle were analyzed with routine histology and electron microscopy. Mitochondrial function was assessed by respirometric analyses and enzymatic activity assays. Structure and sequence analyses of this specific variant were investigated by in silico analyses. Our patient showed the known features of the variant-specific phenotype, including macrosomia, congenital hyperinsulinism, transient hepatomegaly, and renal Fanconi syndrome. In addition to that, she showed liver cirrhosis, chronic kidney failure, and altered mitochondrial morphology and function. The clinical and biochemical phenotype had features of a new type of glycogen storage disease. Discussion: This case expands the p.(Arg85Trp) variant-specific phenotype. Possible pathomechanistic explanations for the documented multiorgan involvement and changes of symptoms and signs during development of this ultra-rare but instructive disorder are discussed.

Deficiency of Cytochrome P450 Steroid 21-hydroxylase (CYP21A2) represents 90% of cases in congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), an autosomal recessive disease caused by defects in cortisol biosynthesis. Computational prediction along with functional studies are often the only way to classify variants to understand the links to disease-causing effects. Here we investigated the pathogenicity of uncharacterized variants in the CYP21A2 gene reported in the Brazilian and Portuguese populations. Physicochemical alterations, residue conservation, and effect on protein structure were accessed by computational analysis. The enzymatic performance was obtained by functional assay with the wild-type and mutant CYP21A2 proteins expressed in HEK293 cells. Computational analysis showed that p.W202R, p.E352V, and p.R484L have severely impaired the protein structure, while p.P35L, p.L199P, and p.P433L have moderate effects. The p.W202R, p.E352V, p.P433L, and p.R484L variants showed residual 21OH activity consistent with the simple virilizing phenotype. The p.P35L and p.L199P variants showed partial 21OH efficiency associated with the non-classical phenotype. Additionally, p.W202R, p.E352V and p.R484L also modified the protein expression level. We have determined how the selected CYP21A2 gene mutations affect the 21OH activity through structural and activity alteration contributing to the future diagnosis and management of 21OH deficiency.

Cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR) is the redox partner of steroid and drug-metabolizing cytochromes P450 located in the endoplasmic reticulum. Mutations in POR cause a broad range of metabolic disorders. The POR variant rs17853284 (P228L) identified by genome sequencing has been linked to lower testosterone levels and reduced P450 activities. We expressed POR wild type and the P228L variant in bacteria, purified the proteins, and performed protein stability and catalytic functional studies. Variant P228L affected the stability of the protein as evidenced by lower unfolding temperatures and higher sensitivity to urea denaturation. A significant reduction of model electron acceptors was observed with POR P228L while activities of CYP3A4 were reduced by 25%, and activities of CYP3A5, and CYP2C9 were reduced by more than 40% compared to WT POR. The 17,20 lyase activity of CYP17A1 responsible for production of main androgen precursor dehydroepiandrosterone, was reduced to 27% of WT in presence of P228L variant of POR. Based on in silico and in vitro studies we predict that the change of proline to leucine may change the rigidity of the protein, causing conformational changes in POR, leading to altered electron transfer to redox partners. A single amino acid change can affect protein stability and cause a severe reduction in POR activity. Molecular characterization of individual POR mutations is crucial for a better understanding of the impact on different redox partners of POR.

Cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR) is the redox partner of steroid and drug-metabolizing cytochromes P450 located in the endoplasmic reticulum. Mutations in POR cause a broad range of metabolic disorders. The POR variant rs17853284 (P228L) identified by genome sequencing has been linked to lower testosterone levels and reduced P450 activities. We expressed POR wild type and the P228L variant in bacteria, purified the proteins, and performed protein stability and catalytic functional studies. Variant P228L affected the stability of the protein as evidenced by lower unfolding temperatures and higher sensitivity to urea denaturation. A significant reduction of small molecule metabolism was observed with POR P228L while activities of CYP3A4 were reduced by 25%, and activities of CYP3A5, and CYP2C9 were reduced by more than 40% compared to WT POR. The 17,20 lyase activity of CYP17A1 responsible for production of main androgen precursor dehydroepiandrosterone, was reduced to 27% of WT in presence of P228L variant of POR. Based on in silico and in vitro studies we predict that the change of proline to leucine may change the rigidity of the protein, causing conformational changes in POR, leading to altered electron transfer to redox partners. A single amino acid change can affect protein stability and cause a severe reduction in POR activity. Molecular characterization of individual POR mutations is crucial for a better understanding of the impact on different redox partners of POR.

Fatty acid synthase (FASN) is the only human lipogenic enzyme available for de novo fatty acid synthesis and is often highly expressed in cancer cells. We found that FASN mRNA levels were significantly higher in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients than in healthy granulocytes or CD34+ hematopoietic progenitors. Accordingly, FASN levels decreased during all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA)-mediated granulocytic differentiation of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) cells, partially via autophagic degradation. Furthermore, our data suggest that inhibition of FASN expression levels using RNAi or (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) accelerated the differentiation of APL cell lines and significantly re-sensitized ATRA refractory non-APL AML cells. FASN reduction promoted translocation of transcription factor EB (TFEB) to the nucleus, paralleled by activation of CLEAR network genes and lysosomal biogenesis. Together, our data demonstrate that inhibition of FASN expression in combination with ATRA treatment facilitates granulocytic differentiation of APL cells and may extend differentiation therapy to non-APL AML cells.

Mutations in the GH1 gene cause isolated growth hormone deficiency (IGHD) by affecting production, secretion, and stability of growth hormone as well as its binding to GHR. Genetic mutations resulting from splicing errors are known to increase the production of a small 17.5 kD isoform of human growth hormone. This smaller isoform of GH1 is inactive and is linked to IGHD. While studying the impact of small GH isoform on GH production and secretion, we noticed that cells transfect with sequences carrying the mutated GH gene that resulted in splicing defects produce the short 17.5 kD version of GH, looked very different from the control cells with WT GH gene. We found that production of short GH isoform distorts the cell morphology, contributing to detrimental effects seen in the patients with mutations in GH1 gene causing alternate splicing. We hypothesized that cellular distortion caused by small GH isoform and overall GH secretion can be a target and a tool to experimental approaches for reversing the damaging effects of small GH protein, thereby providing potential treatments for IGHD caused by splicing errors. It is known for some time that increasing cAMP enhances 26S proteasome activity and the degradation of cell proteins, including the selective breakdown of misfolded proteins, and recently increase in cGMP levels has also been shown to regulate protein degradation. Inhibitors of phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5; e.g., Viagra (sildenafil)), which raise cGMP by inhibiting its hydrolysis to GMP, are widely used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension, and stimulators of soluble guanylyl cyclases (riociguat), which stimulate cGMP synthesis, are used as treatments for pulmonary hypertension and heart failure. Using our model of cellular morphology changes, have investigated the impact of chemicals that enhance cGMP levels by inhibiting PDE5 or activating guanyl cyclases. The cells expressing small isoform of GH consistently show distorted rounded morphology. Treatment with BAY 41-2272, a cGMP inducer slightly improved the cell morphology in small isoform GH expressing cells. BAY 41-2272 did not show any adverse effects of normal and WT GH expressing cells. Treatment of sildenafil to cells expressing 17.5 kD isoform of GH markedly improved the cell morphology compared to untreated cells, especially after 48h when a larger percentage of cells that were distorted (rounder shapes) regained the shape of normal cells expressing WT GH and no damage to cells expressing WT-GH was observed. Another PDE5 inhibitor tadalafil also caused a marked improvement in cell morphology caused by expression of small GH isoform. Overall, it seems the strategy to regulate the cGMP levels in cells transfected in small GH isoform worked and needs further investigation. A detailed analysis of the impact of PDE5 inhibitors on GH expression and secretion will be presented. Presentation: Monday, June 13, 2022 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Context Mutations in cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR) cause a form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). We report a novel R550W mutation in POR identified in a 46,XX patient with signs of aromatase deficiency. Objective Analysis of aromatase deficiency from the R550W mutation in POR. Design, setting, and patient Both the child and the mother had signs of virilization. Ultrasound revealed the presence of uterus and ovaries. No defects in CYP19A1 were found, but further analysis with a targeted Disorders of Sexual Development NGS panel (DSDSeq.V1, 111 genes) on a NextSeq (Illumina) platform in Madrid and Barcelona, Spain, revealed compound heterozygous mutations c.73_74delCT/p.L25FfsTer93 and c.1648C > T/p.R550W in POR. Wild-type and R550W POR were produced as recombinant proteins and tested with multiple cytochrome P450 enzymes at University Children’s Hospital, Bern, Switzerland. Main outcome measure and Results POR-R550W showed 41% of the WT activity in cytochrome c and 7.7% activity for reduction of MTT. Assays of CYP19A1 showed a severe loss of activity, and CYP17A1 as well as CYP21A2 activities were also lost by more than 95%. Loss of CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4 activities was observed for the R550W-POR. Predicted adverse effect on aromatase activity as well as a reduction in binding of NADPH was confirmed. Conclusions Pathological effects due to POR-R550W were identified, expanding the knowledge of molecular pathways associated with aromatase deficiency. Screening of the POR gene may provide a diagnosis in CAH without defects in genes for steroid metabolizing enzymes.

Disorders of isolated mineralocorticoid deficiency causing potentially life-threatening salt-wasting crisis early in life have been associated with gene variants of aldosterone biosynthesis or resistance, but in some patients no such variants are found. WNT/β-catenin signaling is crucial for differentiation and maintenance of the aldosterone producing adrenal zona glomerulosa (zG). We describe a highly consanguineous family with multiple perinatal deaths or infants presenting at birth with failure to thrive, severe salt-wasting crises associated with isolated hypoaldosteronism, nail anomalies, short stature, and deafness. Whole exome sequencing revealed a homozygous splice variant in the R-SPONDIN receptor LGR4 gene (c.618-1G>C) regulating WNT signaling. The resulting transcripts affected protein function and stability, and resulted in loss of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in vitro. The impact of LGR4 inactivation was analyzed by adrenal cortex specific ablation of Lgr4, using Lgr4Flox/Flox mated with Sf1:Cre mice. Inactivation of Lgr4 within the adrenal cortex in the mouse model caused decreased WNT signaling, aberrant zonation with deficient zG and reduced aldosterone production. Thus, human LGR4 mutations establish a direct link between LGR4 inactivation and decreased canonical WNT signaling with abnormal zG differentiation and endocrine function. Therefore, variants in WNT signaling and its regulators should systematically be considered in familial hyperreninemic hypoaldosteronism.

Deficiency of Cytochrome P450 Steroid 21-hydroxylase (CYP21A2) represents 90% of cases in congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), an autosomal recessive disease caused by defects in cortisol biosynthesis. Computational prediction along with functional studies are often the only way to classify variants to understand the links to disease-causing effects. Here we investigated the pathogenicity of uncharacterized variants in the CYP21A2 gene reported in the Brazilian and Portuguese populations. Physicochemical alterations, residue conservation, and effect on protein structure were accessed by computational analysis. The enzymatic performance was obtained by functional assay with the wild-type and mutant CYP21A2 proteins expressed in HEK293 cells. Computational analysis showed that p.W202R, p.E352V, and p.R484L have severely impaired the protein structure, while p.P35L, p.L199P, and p.P433L have moderate effects. The p.W202R, p.E352V, p.P433L, and p.R484L variants showed residual 21OH activity consistent with the simple virilizing phenotype. The p.P35L and p.L199P variants showed partial 21OH efficiency associated with the non-classical phenotype. Additionally, p.W202R, p.E352V and p.R484L also modified the protein expression level. We have determined how the selected CYP21A2 gene mutations affect the 21OH activity through structural and activity alteration contributing to the future diagnosis and management of 21OH deficiency.

Context: P450 oxidoreductase (POR) is required for the activities of steroid-metabolizing cytochrome P450 enzymes in the endoplasmic reticulum. POR deficiency (PORD) is a form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Objective and Aim: Enzymatic and structural analysis of a novel L374H POR mutation from a patient with 46,XX disorder of sexual development. Design, Setting, Patient, and Intervention: The patient was a 46,XX girl with nonconsanguineous Turkish parents. She had virilized external genitalia at birth, a uterus and ovaries, and no sign of Antley-Bixler syndrome. The initial diagnosis was CYP21A2 deficiency with no mutations in CYP21A2, but POR mutations were found. Functional testing was done after producing recombinant POR proteins for analyzing enzymatic and structural properties. Main Outcome: Novel mutations were causing severe loss of POR activities for metabolism of steroids and small molecules. Results: The L374H mutation reduced activities by 80% in cytochrome c, 97% in thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide, and 86% in ferricyanide reduction assays. The catalytic efficiency of the 17 α-hydroxylation of progesterone and the 17,20-lyase reaction of 17-OH pregnenolone was decreased by 87 and 90%, respectively; 21-hydroxylation of progesterone was decreased by 96%, and androstenedione aromatization was decreased by 90%. Analysis of the mutant structure by molecular dynamics simulations revealed structural instability. Flavin release and fast proteolysis assays showed that the L374H mutant is less stable than wild-type POR, confirming the bioinformatics prediction. Conclusions: This is the first report of a mutation causing PORD by affecting protein stability that causes severe reduction in POR activities. Detailed characterization of individual mutations in POR is required for understanding novel molecular mechanisms causing PORD.

Loss of function of the urea cycle enzyme argininosuccinate lyase (ASL) is caused by mutations in the ASL gene leading to ASL deficiency (ASLD). ASLD has a broad clinical spectrum ranging from life-threatening severe neonatal to asymptomatic forms. Different levels of residual ASL activity probably contribute to the phenotypic variability but reliable expression systems allowing clinically useful conclusions are not yet available. In order to define the molecular characteristics underlying the phenotypic variability, we investigated all ASL mutations that were hitherto identified in patients with late onset or mild clinical and biochemical courses by ASL expression in human embryonic kidney 293 T cells. We found residual activities >3% of ASL wild type (WT) in nine of 11 ASL mutations. Six ASL mutations (p.Arg95Cys, p.Ile100Thr, p.Val178Met, p.Glu189Gly, p.Val335Leu, and p.Arg379Cys) with residual activities ≥16% of ASL WT showed no significant or less than twofold reduced Km values, but displayed thermal instability. Computational structural analysis supported the biochemical findings by revealing multiple effects including protein instability, disruption of ionic interactions and hydrogen bonds between residues in the monomeric form of the protein, and disruption of contacts between adjacent monomeric units in the ASL tetramer. These findings suggest that the clinical and biochemical course in variant forms of ASLD is associated with relevant residual levels of ASL activity as well as instability of mutant ASL proteins. Since about 30% of known ASLD genotypes are affected by mutations studied here, ASLD should be considered as a candidate for chaperone treatment to improve mutant protein stability.

Metabolic control is mediated by the dynamic assemblies and function of multiple redox enzymes. A key element in these assemblies, the P450 oxidoreductase (POR), donates electrons and selectively activates numerous (>50 in humans and >300 in plants) cytochromes P450 (CYPs) controlling metabolism of drugs, steroids and xenobiotics in humans and natural product biosynthesis in plants. The mechanisms underlying POR-mediated CYP metabolism remain poorly understood and to date no ligand binding has been described to regulate the specificity of POR. Here, using a combination of computational modeling and functional assays, we identify ligands that dock on POR and bias its specificity towards CYP redox partners, across mammal and plant kingdom. Single molecule FRET studies reveal ligand binding to alter POR conformational sampling, which results in biased activation of metabolic cascades in whole cell assays. We propose the model of biased metabolism, a mechanism akin to biased signaling of GPCRs, where ligand binding on POR stabilizes different conformational states that are linked to distinct metabolic outcomes. Biased metabolism may allow designing pathway-specific therapeutics or personalized food suppressing undesired, disease-related, metabolic pathways., P450 oxidoreductase (POR) selectively activates numerous cytochromes P450 (CYP), crucial for metabolism of drugs, steroids and xenobiotics and natural product biosynthesis. Here, the authors identify ligands that bind POR and bias its specificity towards CYP redox partners, activating distinct metabolic cascades in cells.

Natural products comprise a rich reservoir for innovative drug leads and are a constant source of bioactive compounds. To find pharmacological targets for new or already known natural products using modern computer-aided methods is a current endeavor in drug discovery. Nature&rsquo, s treasures, however, could be used more effectively. Yet, reliable pipelines for the large-scale target prediction of natural products are still rare. We developed an in silico workflow consisting of four independent, stand-alone target prediction tools and evaluated its performance on dihydrochalcones (DHCs)&mdash, a well-known class of natural products. Thereby, we revealed four previously unreported protein targets for DHCs, namely 5-lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenase-1, 17&beta, hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 3, and aldo-keto reductase 1C3. Moreover, we provide a thorough strategy on how to perform computational target predictions and guidance on using the respective tools.

Metabolic control is mediated by the dynamic assemblies and function of multiple redox enzymes. A key element in these assemblies, the P450 oxidoreductase (POR), donates electrons and selectively activates numerous (>50 in humans and >300 in plants) cytochromes P450 (CYPs) controlling metabolism of drugs, steroids and xenobiotics in humans and natural product biosynthesis in plants. The mechanisms underlying POR-mediated CYP metabolism remain poorly understood and to date no ligand binding has been described to regulate the specificity of POR. Here, using a combination of computational modeling and functional assays, we identified ligands that dock on POR and bias its specificity towards CYP redox partners. Single molecule FRET studies revealed ligand docking to alter POR conformational sampling, which resulted in biased activation of metabolic cascades in whole cell assays. We propose the model of biased metabolism, a mechanism akin to biased signaling of GPCRs, where ligand docking on POR stabilizes different conformational states that are linked to distinct metabolic outcomes. Biased metabolism may allow designing pathway-specific therapeutics or personalized food suppressing undesired, disease related, metabolic pathways.

Metabolic control is mediated by the dynamic assemblies and function of multiple redox enzymes. A key element in these assemblies, the P450 oxidoreductase (POR), donates electrons and selectively activates numerous (>50 in humans and >300 in plants) cytochromes P450 (CYPs) controlling metabolism of drugs, steroids and xenobiotics in humans and natural product biosynthesis in plants. The mechanisms underlying POR-mediated CYP metabolism remain poorly understood and to date no ligand binding has been described to regulate the specificity of POR. Here, using a combination of computational modeling and functional assays, we identified ligands that dock on POR and bias its specificity towards CYP redox partners. Single molecule FRET studies revealed ligand docking to alter POR conformational sampling, which resulted in biased activation of metabolic cascades in whole cell assays. We propose the model of biased metabolism, a mechanism akin to biased signaling of GPCRs, where ligand docking on POR stabilizes different conformational states that are linked to distinct metabolic outcomes. Biased metabolism may allow designing pathway-specific therapeutics or personalized food suppressing undesired, disease related, metabolic pathways.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) consists of several autosomal recessive disorders that inhibit steroid biosynthesis. We describe a case report diagnosed with adrenal insufficiency due to low adrenal steroids and adrenocorticotropic hormone excess due to lack of cortisol negative feedback signaling to the pituary gland. Genetic work up revealed two missense variants, p.Thr204Arg and p.Leu260Arg in the STAR gene, inherited by both parents (non-consanguineous). The StAR protein supports CYP11A1 enzyme to cleave the side chain of cholesterol and synthesize pregnenolone which is metabolized to all steroid hormones. We used bioinformatics to predict the impact of the variants on StAR activity and then we performed functional tests to characterize the two novel variants. In a cell system we tested the ability of variants to support cholesterol conversion to pregnenolone and measured their mRNA and protein expression. For both variants, we observed loss of StAR function, reduced protein expression and categorized them as pathogenic variants according to guidelines of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and the Association for Molecular Pathology. These results fit the phenotype of the girl during diagnosis. This study characterizes two novel variants and expands the list of missense variants that cause CAH.

Introduction: Growth hormone (GH) plays a vital role in human physiology. Mutations in GH1 cause isolated growth hormone deficiency (GHD). The most frequent cause of familial growth hormone deficiency is Type II autosomal dominant GHD (isolated GHD type II) due to several heterozygous GH1 mutations. These mutations have been shown to (a) produce shorter isoforms of GH that do not bind to growth hormone receptors, (b) cause diminished secretion of GH, or (c) result in misfolded GH protein. Methods: Genomic DNA from patients with familial GHD was enriched for the coding exons using hybrid capture technology, and GH1 was sequenced using Next Generation Sequencing technology. The p.A34T mutant protein was expressed in bacteria, and binding to GHR was studied by surface plasmon resonance technology. Computational prediction of transcription indicated that alternative splicing is likely to produce a shorter GH variant with skipping of exon 3 in GH1. Mammalian cell-based studies incorporating transfection of whole GH1 gene containing exons/introns were used to study transcriptional effects. RNA was isolated from cells transfected with WT and mutant GH1 gene and analyzed by RT PCR using primers in the second and fifth exons of GH1 that could identify all possible isoforms of GH1 mRNA. Results: GHD was identified in three female siblings aged 3.25-6.33 years (Ht SDS -3.21 to -1.13, peak GH 2.9-6.6 ng/mL); their mother had previously been diagnosed with GHD at age 12.33 years (Ht SDS -3.44, GH peak &lt 2 ng/mL). Sequencing of GH1 identified a novel heterozygous variant (c.178G&gtA; p.Ala34Thr) not found in the Broad ExAc dataset representing &gt60,000 children without the severe childhood-onset disease. Functional studies using whole gene transfection showed that the c.178G&gtA mutation leads to alternate splicing resulting in increased production of the shorter 17.5kD isoform of GH due to exon 3 skipping. Results were confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR as well as GH secretion assays, which showed a lower level of GH production from cells transfected with the GH1 gene containing the c.178G&gtA mutation. The SPR based receptor binding assay and cell proliferation assay using bacterially expressed proteins showed that once produced, the GH protein with the A34T mutation behaves similar to WT GH protein. All these results confirm that the cause of GHD due to the c.178G&gtA mutation in GH1 is due to altered transcription leading to the production of the shorter 17.5 kD isoform of GH protein and not due to the amino acid change A34T that is caused by the mutation. Conclusion: The presence of a heterozygous GH1 variant (c.178G&gtA, p.Ala34Thr) in four individuals with GHD suggests that this is a novel cause of IGHD type II. Production of the smaller 17.5 kD GH isoform results in reduced overall GH secretion and loss of binding to GHR due to competition with the normal GH protein, explaining the dominant-negative phenotype.

Context: Mutations in Cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR) cause a form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). We are reporting a novel R550W mutation in POR identified in a 46, XX patient with signs of aromatase deficiency. Objective: Analysis of aromatase deficiency from R550W mutation in POR. Design, Setting, and Patient: Both the child and the mother had signs of virilization. Ultrasound revealed the presence of uterus and ovaries. No defects in CYP19A1 were found, but further analysis with a targeted Disorders of Sexual Development NGS panel (DSDSeq.V1, 111 genes) on a NextSeq (Illumina) platform in Madrid and Barcelona, Spain, revealed compound heterozygous mutations c.73_74delCT/p.L25FfsTer93 and c.1648C>T/p.R550W in POR. WT and R550W POR were produced as recombinant proteins and tested with multiple cytochrome P450 enzymes at University Children’s Hospital, Bern, Switzerland. Main Outcome Measure and Results: R550W POR showed 41% of the WT activity in cytochrome c and 7.7% activity for reduction of MTT. Assays of CYP19A1 showed a severe loss of activity and CYP17A1, as well as CYP21A2 activities, were also lost by more than 95%. Loss of CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4 activities was observed for the R550W-POR. Predicted adverse effect on aromatase activity as well as a reduction in binding of NADPH was confirmed. Conclusions: Pathological effects due to POR R550W were identified, expanding the knowledge of molecular pathways associated with aromatase deficiency. Screening of the POR gene may provide a diagnosis in CAH without defects in genes for steroid metabolizing enzymes.

Turmeric, a popular ingredient in the cuisine of many Asian countries, comes from the roots of the Curcuma longa and is known for its use in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. Turmeric is rich in curcuminoids, including curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin. Curcuminoids have potent wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic activities. While curcuminoids have been studied for many years, not much is known about their effects on steroid metabolism. Since many anti-cancer drugs target enzymes from the steroidogenic pathway, we tested the effect of curcuminoids on cytochrome P450 CYP17A1, CYP21A2, and CYP19A1 enzyme activities. When using 10 &micro, g/ml of curcuminoids, both the 17&alpha, hydroxylase as well as 17,20 lyase activities of CYP17A1 were reduced significantly. On the other hand, only a mild reduction in CYP21A2 activity was observed. Furthermore, CYP19A1 activity was also reduced up to ~20% of control when using 1&ndash, 100 &micro, g/ml of curcuminoids in a dose-dependent manner. Molecular docking studies confirmed that curcumin could dock onto the active sites of CYP17A1, CYP19A1, as well as CYP21A2. In CYP17A1 and CYP19A1, curcumin docked within 2.5 &Aring, of central heme while in CYP21A2 the distance from heme was 3.4 &Aring, which is still in the same range or lower than distances of bound steroid substrates. These studies suggest that curcuminoids may cause inhibition of steroid metabolism, especially at higher dosages. Also, the recent popularity of turmeric powder as a dilatory supplement needs further evaluation for the effect of curcuminoids on steroid metabolism. The molecular structure of curcuminoids could be modified to generate better lead compounds with inhibitory effects on CYP17A1 and CYP19A1 for potential drugs against prostate cancer and breast cancer.

Context: Mutations in Cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR) cause a form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). We are reporting a novel R550W mutation in POR identified in a 46, XX patient with signs of aromatase deficiency. Objective: Analysis of aromatase deficiency from R550W mutation in POR. Design, Setting, and Patient: Both the child and the mother had signs of virilization. Ultrasound revealed the presence of uterus and ovaries. No defects in CYP19A1 were found, but further analysis with a targeted Disorders of Sexual Development NGS panel (DSDSeq.V1, 111 genes) on a NextSeq (Illumina) platform in Madrid and Barcelona, Spain, revealed compound heterozygous mutations c.73_74delCT/p.L25FfsTer93 and c.1648C>T/p.R550W in POR. WT and R550W POR were produced as recombinant proteins and tested with multiple cytochrome P450 enzymes at University Children’s Hospital, Bern, Switzerland. Main Outcome Measure and Results: R550W POR showed 41% of the WT activity in cytochrome c and 7.7% activity for reduction of MTT. Assays of CYP19A1 showed a severe loss of activity and CYP17A1, as well as CYP21A2 activities, were also lost by more than 95%. Loss of CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4 activities was observed for the R550W-POR. Predicted adverse effect on aromatase activity as well as a reduction in binding of NADPH was confirmed. Conclusions: Pathological effects due to POR R550W were identified, expanding the knowledge of molecular pathways associated with aromatase deficiency. Screening of the POR gene may provide a diagnosis in CAH without defects in genes for steroid metabolizing enzymes.

Aromatase (CYP19A1) converts androgens into estrogens and is required for female sexual development and growth and development in both sexes. CYP19A1 is a member of cytochrome P450 family of heme-thiolate monooxygenases located in the endoplasmic reticulum and depends on reducing equivalents from the reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate via the cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase coded byPOR. Both theCYP19A1andPORgenes are highly polymorphic, and mutations in both these genes are linked to disorders of steroid biosynthesis. We have previously shown that R264C and R264H mutations inCYP19A1, as well as mutations inPOR, result in a reduction of CYP19A1 activity. The R264C is a common polymorphic variant ofCYP19A1, with high frequency in Asian and African populations. Polymorphic alleles ofPORare found in all populations studied so far and, therefore, may influence activities ofCYP19A1allelic variants. So far, effects of variations inPORon enzymatic activities of allelic variants ofCYP19A1or any other steroid metabolizing cytochrome P450 proteins have not been studied. Here we are reporting the effects of three POR variants on the aromatase activities of two CYP19A1 variants, R264C and R264H. We used bacterially expressed and purified preparations of WT and variant forms of CYP19A1 and POR and constructed liposomes with embedded CYP19A1 and POR proteins and assayed the CYP19A1 activities using radiolabeled androstenedione as a substrate. With the WT-POR as a redox partner, the R264C-CYP19A1 showed only 15% of aromatase activity, but the R264H had 87% of aromatase activity compared to WT-CYP19A1. With P284L-POR as a redox partner, R264C-CYP19A1 lost all activity but retained 6.7% of activity when P284T-POR was used as a redox partner. The R264H-CYP19A1 showed low activities with both the POR-P284L as well as the POR-P284T. When the POR-Y607C was used as a redox partner, the R264C-CYP19A1 retained around 5% of CYP19A1 activity. Remarkably, The R264H-CYP19A1 had more than three-fold higher activity compared to WT-CYP19A1 when the POR-Y607C was used as the redox partner, pointing towards a beneficial effect. The slight increase in activity of R264C-CYP19A1 with the P284T-POR and the three-fold increase in activity of the R264H-CYP19A1 with the Y607C-POR point towards a conformational effect and role of protein-protein interaction governed by the R264C and R264H substitutions in the CYP19A1 as well as P284L, P284T and Y607C variants of POR. These studies demonstrate that the allelic variants of P450 when present with a variant form of POR may show different activities, and combined effects of variations in both the P450 enzymes as well as in the POR should be considered when genetic data are available. Recent trends in the whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing as diagnostic tools will permit combined evaluation of variations in multiple genes that are interdependent and may guide treatment options by adjusting therapeutic interventions based on laboratory analysis.

Cytochromes P450 located in the endoplasmic reticulum require NADPH cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR) for their catalytic activities. Mutations in POR cause multiple disorders in humans related to the biosynthesis of steroid hormones and also affect drug-metabolizing cytochrome P450 activities. Here we are reporting the effects of a POR genetic variant P284T which is located in the hinge region of POR that is necessary for the flexibility of domain movements. Human wild-type and P284T mutant of POR, as well as cytochrome P450 proteins, were expressed in bacteria, purified and then reconstituted in liposomes for enzyme kinetic assays. Quality of POR proteins was checked by cytochrome c, ferricyanide and tetrazolium dye reduction assay and measurements flavin content. We found that for the P284T variant of POR the cytochrome c reduction activity was reduced to 47% of the WT and MTT reduction was reduced to only 15% of the WT. No impact on ferricyanide reduction activity was observed, but a severe loss of CYP19A1 (aromatase) activity was observed (9% of WT). In the assays of drug metabolizing cytochrome P450 enzymes, the P284T variant of POR showed 26% activity for CYP2C9, 44% activity for CYP2C19, 23% activity for CYP3A4 and 44% activity in CYP3A5 assays compared to the WT POR. These results indicate a severe effect on several cytochrome P450 activities due to the P284T variation in POR which suggests a negative impact on both the steroid as well as drug metabolism in the individuals carrying this variation.

A broad spectrum of human diseases are caused by mutations in the NADPH cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR). Cytochrome P450 proteins perform several reactions, including the metabolism of steroids, drugs, and other xenobiotics. In 2004 the first human patients with defects in POR were reported, and over 250 variations in POR are known. Information about the effects of POR variants on drug metabolizing enzymes is limited and has not received much attention. By analyzing the POR sequences from genomics databases, we identified potentially disease-causing variations and characterized these by in vitro functional studies using recombinant proteins. Proteins were expressed in bacteria and purified for activity assays. Activities of cytochrome P450 enzymes were tested in vitro using liposomes prepared with lipids into which P450 and P450 reductase proteins were embedded. Here we are reporting the effect of POR variants on drug metabolizing enzymes CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A5 which are responsible for the metabolism of many drugs. POR Variants A115V, T142A, A281T, P284L, A287P, and Y607C inhibited activities of all P450 proteins tested. Interestingly, the POR variant Q153R showed a reduction of 20-50% activities with CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 but had a 400% increased activity with CYP3A5. The A287P is most common POR mutation found in patients of European origin, and significantly inhibited drug metabolism activities which has important consequences for monitoring and treatment of patients. In vitro, functional assays using recombinant proteins provide a useful model for establishing the metabolic effect of genetic mutations. Our results indicate that detailed knowledge about POR variants is necessary for correct diagnosis and treatment options for persons with POR deficiency and the role of changes in drug metabolism and toxicology due to variations in POR needs to be addressed.

Background: Androgens are steroid hormones necessary for human sex development. Testosterone (T) and the more potent dihydrotestosterone (DHT) are maybe the best known androgens, which exert their effect by binding and activating the androgen receptor. Steroid reductases 5α (SRD5As) catalyse the conversion of T to DHT in the classic androgen production pathway, or from 17-hydroxyprogesterone to 17OH-dihydroprogesterone, and androstenedione to androstanedione in alternate pathways leading to DHT. There are two enzymes with differential expression, of which SRD5A2 is expressed in reproductive organs and liver, and catalyses the reaction of T to DHT more efficiently than SRD5A1. Human SRD5A2 loss-of-function mutations are known, and cause severe 46XY undervirilization, while gain-of-function variants have been suggested in androgen excess syndromes such as premature adrenarche, the polycystic ovary syndrome or prostate tumors, but they have not been found so far. Aim: Therefore, we aimed to search for gain-of-function mutations in the human SRD5A2 gene. Methods: For that, we searched databases for candidate variants and performed bioinformatic and functional tests on selected variants. After conservation analysis of SRD5A2, a novel 3D protein model was constructed to locate the exact position of amino acids in the tertiary structure and predict their effect on protein function and substrate interaction. We then collected 116 coding SNPs in SRD5A2 from OMIM, dbSNP, Pubmed, Clinvar, HGMD and Uniprot databases. These SNPs were ranked according to their association with phenotypes, physical location in our 3D model, and molecular dynamics simulation studies. Finally, we selected 9 coding SNPs for in vitro studies. These SNPs were located within or close to highly conserved areas that form the binding cavities for substrates or cofactor NADPH. SRD5A2 variants were expressed in HEK293 cells and activity was assessed by conversion of testosterone (T), progesterone (Prog) and androstenedione (Δ4Α) to their 5α-reduced metabolites. Result: Variants R50A and P173S showed partial activity with substrates T (34% and 28%) and Δ4Α (37% and 22%). With substrate Prog variants P106L, P106A, L167S and R168C in addition showed partial activity (15% to 64%). Functional testing of all other variants showed loss-of-function. As predicted in our in silico analysis, all coding SNPs affected enzyme activity, however none of them showed gain-of-function In conclusion, we provide a novel protein model for studies of SRD5A2. No gain-of-function variants were identified, but we have characterized 7 human SRD5A2 variants, which might be of clinical relevance for their enzyme activity loss. It is possible that individuals carrying these SNPs show a minor phenotype that is not yet identified.

The acute response to stress consists of a series of physiological programs to promote survival by generating glucocorticoids and activating stress response genes that increase the synthesis of many chaperone proteins specific to individual organelles. In the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), short-term stress triggers activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) module that either leads to neutralization of the initial stress or adaptation to it; chronic stress favors cell death. UPR induces expression of the transcription factor, C/EBP homology protein (CHOP), and its deletion protects against the lethal consequences of prolonged UPR. Here, we show that stress-induced CHOP expression coincides with increased metabolic activity. During stress, the ER and mitochondria come close to each other, resulting in the formation of a complex consisting of the mitochondrial translocase, translocase of outer mitochondrial membrane 22 (Tom22), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (3βHSD2) via its intermembrane space (IMS)-exposed charged unstructured loop region. Stress increased the circulation of phosphates, which elevated pregnenolone synthesis by 2-fold by increasing the stability of 3βHSD2 and its association with the mitochondrion-associated ER membrane (MAM) and mitochondrial proteins. In summary, cytoplasmic CHOP plays a central role in coordinating the interaction of MAM proteins with the outer mitochondrial membrane translocase, Tom22, to activate metabolic activity in the IMS by enhanced phosphate circulation.

Genetic variations may change the structure and function of individual proteins as well as affect their interactions with other proteins and thereby impact metabolic processes dependent on protein-protein interactions. For example, cytochrome P450 proteins, which metabolize a vast array of drugs, steroids and other xenobiotics, are dependent on interactions with redox and allosteric partner proteins for their localization, stability, (catalytic) function and metabolic diversity (reactions). Genetic variations may impact such interactions by changing the splicing and/or amino acid sequence which in turn may impact protein topology, localization, post translational modifications and three dimensional structure. More generally, research on single gene defects and their role in disease, as well as recent large scale sequencing studies suggest that a large number of genetic variations may contribute to disease not only by affecting gene function or expression but also by modulating complex protein interaction networks. The aim of this research topic is to bring together researchers working in the area of drug, steroid and xenobiotic metabolism who are studying protein-protein inter- actions, to describe their recent advances in the field. We are aiming for a com- prehensive analysis of the subject from different approaches including genetics, proteomics, transcriptomics, structural biology, biochemistry and pharmacology. Of particular interest are papers dealing with translational research describing the role of novel genetic variations altering protein-protein interaction. Authors may submit original articles, reviews and opinion or hypothesis papers dealing with the role of protein-protein interactions in health and disease.

All cytochromes P450s in the endoplasmic reticulum rely on P450 oxidoreductase (POR) for their catalytic activities. Mutations in POR cause metabolic disorders of steroid hormone biosynthesis and affect certain drug metabolizing P450 activities. We studied mutations A115V, T142A, Q153R identified in the flavin mononucleotide (FMN) binding domain of POR that interacts with partner proteins and P284L located in the hinge region that is required for flexibility and domain movements in POR. Human wild type and mutant POR as well as CYP3A4 and CYP19A1 proteins in recombinant form were expressed in bacteria, and purified proteins were reconstituted in liposomes for enzyme kinetic assays. Quality of POR protein was checked by cytochrome c reduction assay as well as flavin content measurements. We found that proteins carrying mutations A115V, T142A located close to the FMN binding site had reduced flavin content compared to wild type POR and lost almost all activity to metabolize androstenedione via CYP19A1 and showed reduced CYP3A4 activity. The variant P284L identified from apparently normal subjects also had severe loss of both CYP19A1 and CYP3A4 activities, indicating this to be a potentially disease causing mutation. The mutation Q153R initially identified in a patient with disordered steroidogenesis showed remarkably increased activities of both CYP19A1 and CYP3A4 without any significant change in flavin content, indicating improved protein-protein interactions between POR Q153R and some P450 proteins. These results indicate that effects of mutations on activities of individual cytochromes P450 can be variable and a detailed analysis of each variant with different partner proteins is necessary to accurately determine the genotype-phenotype correlations of POR variants.