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Peroxisomes are organelles that carry out β-oxidation of fatty acids and amino acids. Both rare and prevalent diseases are caused by their dysfunction 1 . Among disease-causing variant genes are those required for protein transport into peroxisomes. The peroxisomal protein import machinery, which also shares similarities with chloroplasts 2 , is unique in transporting folded and large, up to 10 nm in diameter, protein complexes into peroxisomes 3 . Current models postulate a large pore formed by transmembrane proteins 4 ; however, so far, no pore structure has been observed. In the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the minimum transport machinery includes the membrane proteins Pex13 and Pex14 and the cargo-protein-binding transport receptor, Pex5. Here we show that Pex13 undergoes liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) with Pex5-cargo. Intrinsically disordered regions in Pex13 and Pex5 resemble those found in nuclear pore complex proteins. Peroxisomal protein import depends on both the number and pattern of aromatic residues in these intrinsically disordered regions, consistent with their roles as 'stickers' in associative polymer models of LLPS 5,6 . Finally, imaging fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy shows that cargo import correlates with transient focusing of GFP-Pex13 and GFP-Pex14 on the peroxisome membrane. Pex13 and Pex14 form foci in distinct time frames, suggesting that they may form channels at different saturating concentrations of Pex5-cargo. Our findings lead us to suggest a model in which LLPS of Pex5-cargo with Pex13 and Pex14 results in transient protein transport channels 7 ., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Limited.)

Pex30 is a peroxisomal protein whose role in peroxisome biogenesis via the endoplasmic reticulum has been established. It is a 58 KDa multi-domain protein that facilitates contact site formation between various organelles. The present study aimed to investigate the role of various domains of the protein in its sub-cellular localization and regulation of peroxisome number. For this, we created six truncations of the protein (1-87, 1-250, 1-352, 88-523, 251-523 and 353-523) and tagged GFP at the C-terminus. Biochemical methods and fluorescence microscopy were used to characterize the effect of truncation on expression and localization of the protein. Quantitative analysis was performed to determine the effect of truncation on peroxisome number in these cells. Expression of the truncated variants in cells lacking PEX30 did not cause any effect on cell growth. Interestingly, variable expression and localization of the truncated variants in both peroxisome-inducing and non-inducing medium was observed. Truncated variants depicted different distribution patterns such as punctate, reticulate and cytosolic fluorescence. Interestingly, lack of the complete dysferlin domain or C-Dysf resulted in increased peroxisome number similar to as reported for cells lacking Pex30. No contribution of this domain in the reticulate distribution of the proteins was also observed. Our results show an interesting role for the various domains of Pex30 in localization and regulation of peroxisome number., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Peroxisomal integrity and function are highly dependent on its membrane and soluble (matrix) components. Matrix enzymes are imported post-translationally in a folded or even oligomeric state, via a still mysterious protein translocation mechanism. They are guided to peroxisomes via the Peroxisomal Targeting Signal (PTS) sequences which are recognized by specific cytosolic receptors, Pex5, Pex7 and Pex9. Subsequently, cargo-loaded receptors bind to the docking complex in an initial step, followed by channel formation, cargo-release, receptor-recycling and -quality control. The docking complexes of different species share Pex14 as their core component but differ in composition and oligomeric state of Pex14. Here we review and highlight the latest insights on the structure and function of the peroxisomal docking complex. We summarize differences between yeast and mammals and then we integrate this knowledge into our current understanding of the import machinery., (© 2022 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston.)

Peroxisomes are ubiquitous organelles whose dysfunction causes fatal human diseases. Most peroxisomal enzymes are imported from the cytosol by the receptor PEX5, which interacts with a docking complex in the peroxisomal membrane and then returns to the cytosol after monoubiquitination by a membrane-embedded ubiquitin ligase. The mechanism by which PEX5 shuttles between cytosol and peroxisomes and releases cargo inside the lumen is unclear. Here, we use Xenopus egg extract to demonstrate that PEX5 accompanies cargo completely into the lumen, utilizing WxxxF/Y motifs near its N terminus that bind a lumenal domain of the docking complex. PEX5 recycling is initiated by an amphipathic helix that binds to the lumenal side of the ubiquitin ligase. The N terminus then emerges in the cytosol for monoubiquitination. Finally, PEX5 is extracted from the lumen, resulting in the unfolding of the receptor and cargo release. Our results reveal the unique mechanism by which PEX5 ferries proteins into peroxisomes., Competing Interests: Declaration of interests The authors declare no competing interests., (Copyright © 2022 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The protein complexes of the mitochondrial electron transport chain exist in isolation and in higher order assemblies termed supercomplexes (SCs) or respirasomes (SC I+III 2 +IV). The association of complexes I, III and IV into the respirasome is regulated by unknown mechanisms. Here, we designed a nanoluciferase complementation reporter for complex III and IV proximity to determine in vivo respirasome levels. In a chemical screen, we found that inhibitors of the de novo pyrimidine synthesis enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) potently increased respirasome assembly and activity. By-passing DHODH inhibition via uridine supplementation decreases SC assembly by altering mitochondrial phospholipid composition, specifically elevated peroxisomal-derived ether phospholipids. Cell growth rates upon DHODH inhibition depend on ether lipid synthesis and SC assembly. These data reveal that nucleotide pools signal to peroxisomes to modulate synthesis and transport of ether phospholipids to mitochondria for SC assembly, which are necessary for optimal cell growth in conditions of nucleotide limitation.

Autophagy is activated by prolonged fasting but cannot overcome the ensuing hepatic lipid overload, resulting in fatty liver. Here, we describe a peroxisome-lysosome metabolic link that restricts autophagic degradation of lipids. Acyl-CoA oxidase 1 (Acox1), the enzyme that catalyzes the first step in peroxisomal β-oxidation, is enriched in liver and further increases with fasting or high-fat diet (HFD). Liver-specific Acox1 knockout (Acox1-LKO) protected mice against hepatic steatosis caused by starvation or HFD due to induction of autophagic degradation of lipid droplets. Hepatic Acox1 deficiency markedly lowered total cytosolic acetyl-CoA levels, which led to decreased Raptor acetylation and reduced lysosomal localization of mTOR, resulting in impaired activation of mTORC1, a central regulator of autophagy. Dichloroacetic acid treatment elevated acetyl-CoA levels, restored mTORC1 activation, inhibited autophagy, and increased hepatic triglycerides in Acox1-LKO mice. These results identify peroxisome-derived acetyl-CoA as a key metabolic regulator of autophagy that controls hepatic lipid homeostasis., Competing Interests: Declaration of interests The authors declare no competing interests., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Here, we describe a novel peroxin, Pex37, in the yeast Hansenula polymorpha. H. polymorpha Pex37 is a peroxisomal membrane protein, which belongs to a protein family that includes, among others, the Neurospora crassa Woronin body protein Wsc, the human peroxisomal membrane protein PXMP2, the Saccharomyces cerevisiae mitochondrial inner membrane protein Sym1, and its mammalian homologue MPV17. We show that deletion of H. polymorpha PEX37 does not appear to have a significant effect on peroxisome biogenesis or proliferation in cells grown at peroxisome-inducing growth conditions (methanol). However, the absence of Pex37 results in a reduction in peroxisome numbers and a defect in peroxisome segregation in cells grown at peroxisome-repressing conditions (glucose). Conversely, overproduction of Pex37 in glucose-grown cells results in an increase in peroxisome numbers in conjunction with a decrease in their size. The increase in numbers in PEX37-overexpressing cells depends on the dynamin-related protein Dnm1. Together our data suggest that Pex37 is involved in peroxisome fission in glucose-grown cells. Introduction of human PXMP2 in H. polymorpha pex37 cells partially restored the peroxisomal phenotype, indicating that PXMP2 represents a functional homologue of Pex37. H.polymorpha pex37 cells did not show aberrant growth on any of the tested carbon and nitrogen sources that are metabolized by peroxisomal enzymes, suggesting that Pex37 may not fulfill an essential function in transport of these substrates or compounds required for their metabolism across the peroxisomal membrane., (© 2019 The Authors. The FEBS Journal published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Federation of European Biochemical Societies.)

Plants have evolved the ability to derive the benzenoid moiety of the respiratory cofactor and antioxidant, ubiquinone (coenzyme Q), either from the β-oxidative metabolism of p-coumarate or from the peroxidative cleavage of kaempferol. Here, isotopic feeding assays, gene co-expression analysis and reverse genetics identified Arabidopsis 4-COUMARATE-COA LIGASE 8 (4-CL8; At5g38120) as a contributor to the β-oxidation of p-coumarate for ubiquinone biosynthesis. The enzyme is part of the same clade (V) of acyl-activating enzymes than At4g19010, a p-coumarate CoA ligase known to play a central role in the conversion of p-coumarate into 4-hydroxybenzoate. A 4-cl8 T-DNA knockout displayed a 20% decrease in ubiquinone content compared with wild-type plants, while 4-CL8 overexpression boosted ubiquinone content up to 150% of the control level. Similarly, the isotopic enrichment of ubiquinone's ring was decreased by 28% in the 4-cl8 knockout as compared with wild-type controls when Phe-[Ring-13C6] was fed to the plants. This metabolic blockage could be bypassed via the exogenous supply of 4-hydroxybenzoate, the product of p-coumarate β-oxidation. Arabidopsis 4-CL8 displays a canonical peroxisomal targeting sequence type 1, and confocal microscopy experiments using fused fluorescent reporters demonstrated that this enzyme is imported into peroxisomes. Time course feeding assays using Phe-[Ring-13C6] in a series of Arabidopsis single and double knockouts blocked in the β-oxidative metabolism of p-coumarate (4-cl8; at4g19010; at4g19010 × 4-cl8), flavonol biosynthesis (flavanone-3-hydroxylase), or both (at4g19010 × flavanone-3-hydroxylase) indicated that continuous high light treatments (500 µE m-2 s-1; 24 h) markedly stimulated the de novo biosynthesis of ubiquinone independently of kaempferol catabolism., (© 2019 The Author(s). Published by Portland Press Limited on behalf of the Biochemical Society.)

We developed a new two-photon fluorescent probe (PX-1) with high selectivity and sensitivity for detecting peroxisomal peroxynitrite. PX-1 was successfully applied to in situ imaging of peroxynitrite in the livers of mice with acute liver injury induced by carbon tetrachloride.

Selective autophagy recycles damaged organelles and clears intracellular pathogens to prevent their aberrant accumulation. How ULK1 kinase is targeted and activated during selective autophagic events remains to be elucidated. In this study, we used chemically inducible dimerization (CID) assays in tandem with CRISPR KO lines to systematically analyze the molecular basis of selective autophagosome biogenesis. We demonstrate that ectopic placement of NDP52 on mitochondria or peroxisomes is sufficient to initiate selective autophagy by focally localizing and activating the ULK1 complex. The capability of NDP52 to induce mitophagy is dependent on its interaction with the FIP200/ULK1 complex, which is facilitated by TBK1. Ectopically tethering ULK1 to cargo bypasses the requirement for autophagy receptors and TBK1. Focal activation of ULK1 occurs independently of AMPK and mTOR. Our findings provide a parsimonious model of selective autophagy, which highlights the coordination of ULK1 complex localization by autophagy receptors and TBK1 as principal drivers of targeted autophagosome biogenesis., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Peroxisomal matrix proteins contain either a peroxisomal targeting sequence 1 (PTS1) or a PTS2 that are recognized by the import receptors PEX5 and PEX7, respectively. PEX5 transports the PTS1 proteins and the PEX7/PTS2 complex to the docking translocation module (DTM) at the peroxisomal membrane. After cargo release PEX5 is monoubiquitinated and extracted from the peroxisomal membrane by the receptor export machinery (REM) comprising PEX26 and the AAA ATPases PEX1 and PEX6. Here, we investigated the protein interactions of monoubiquitinated PEX5 with the docking proteins PEX13, PEX14 and the REM. "Click" chemistry was used to synthesise monoubiquitinated recombinant PEX5. We found that monoubiquitinated PEX5 binds the PEX7/PTS2 complex and restores PTS2 protein import in vivo in ΔPEX5 fibroblasts. In vitro pull-down assays revealed an interaction of recombinant PEX5 and monoubiquitinated PEX5 with PEX13, PEX14 and with the REM components PEX1, PEX6 and PEX26. The interactions with the docking proteins were independent of the PEX5 ubiquitination status whereas the interactions with the REM components were increased when PEX5 is ubiquitinated.

The protozoan parasite Giardia lamblia has traditionally been reported as lacking peroxisomes, organelles involved in fatty acid metabolism and detoxification of reactive oxygen species. We here report the finding with transmission electron microscopy of an oxidase activity in cytoplasmic vesicles of trophozoites and cysts of G. lamblia. These vesicles were positive to 3,3'-diaminobenzidine and to cerium chloride staining. In addition, using bioinformatic tools, two peroxisomal proteins were identified in the G. lamblia proteome: acyl-CoA synthetase long chain family member 4 (ACSL-4) and peroxin-4 (PEX-4). With confocal and immunoelectron microscopy using polyclonal antibodies both proteins were identified in cytoplasmic vesicles of trophozoites. Altogether, our results suggest for the first time the presence of peroxisomal-like proteins in the cytoplasm of G. lamblia., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

In order to adapt to environmental changes, such as nutrient availability, cells have to orchestrate multiple metabolic pathways, which are catalyzed in distinct specialized organelles. Lipid droplets (LDs) and peroxisomes are both endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-derived organelles that fulfill complementary functions in lipid metabolism: Upon nutrient supply, LDs store metabolic energy in the form of neutral lipids and, when energy is needed, supply fatty acids for oxidation in peroxisomes and mitochondria. How these organelles communicate with each other for a concerted metabolic output remains a central question. Here, we summarize recent insights into the biogenesis and function of LDs and peroxisomes with emphasis on the role of PEX19 in these processes.

Pex11p plays a crucial role in peroxisome fission. Previously, it was shown that a conserved N-terminal amphipathic helix in Pex11p, termed Pex11-Amph, was necessary for peroxisomal fission in vivo while in vitro studies revealed that this region alone was sufficient to bring about tubulation of liposomes with a lipid consistency resembling the peroxisomal membrane. However, molecular details of how Pex11-Amph remodels the peroxisomal membrane remain unknown. Here we have combined in silico, in vitro and in vivo approaches to gain insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying Pex11-Amph activity. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we observe that Pex11-Amph peptides form linear aggregates on a model membrane. Furthermore, we identify mutations that disrupted this aggregation in silico, which also abolished the peptide's ability to remodel liposomes in vitro, establishing that Pex11p oligomerisation plays a direct role in membrane remodelling. In vivo studies revealed that these mutations resulted in a strong reduction in Pex11 protein levels, indicating that these residues are important for Pex11p function. Taken together, our data demonstrate the power of combining in silico techniques with experimental approaches to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying Pex11p-dependent membrane remodelling., (Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Peroxisomes account for ~35% of total H 2 O 2 generation in mammalian tissues. Peroxisomal ACOX1 (acyl-CoA oxidase 1) is the first and rate-limiting enzyme in fatty acid β-oxidation and a major producer of H 2 O 2 ACOX1 dysfunction is linked to peroxisomal disorders and hepatocarcinogenesis. Here, we show that the deacetylase sirtuin 5 (SIRT5) is present in peroxisomes and that ACOX1 is a physiological substrate of SIRT5. Mechanistically, SIRT5-mediated desuccinylation inhibits ACOX1 activity by suppressing its active dimer formation in both cultured cells and mouse livers. Deletion of SIRT5 increases H 2 O 2 production and oxidative DNA damage, which can be alleviated by ACOX1 knockdown. We show that SIRT5 downregulation is associated with increased succinylation and activity of ACOX1 and oxidative DNA damage response in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our study reveals a novel role of SIRT5 in inhibiting peroxisome-induced oxidative stress, in liver protection, and in suppressing HCC development., (© 2018 The Authors.)

Peroxisomes are dynamic organelles of eukaryotic cells performing a wide range of functions including fatty acid oxidation, peroxide detoxification and ether-lipid synthesis in mammals. Peroxisomes lack their own DNA and therefore have to import proteins post-translationally. Peroxisomes can import folded, co-factor bound and even oligomeric proteins. The involvement of cycling receptors is a special feature of peroxisomal protein import. Complex machineries of peroxin (PEX) proteins mediate peroxisomal matrix and membrane protein import. Identification of PEX genes was dominated by forward genetic techniques in the early 90s. However, recent developments in proteomic techniques has revolutionized the detailed characterization of peroxisomal protein import. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on peroxisomal protein import with emphasis on the contribution of proteomic approaches to our understanding of the composition and function of the peroxisomal protein import machineries.

Fungal peroxisomes are characterized by a number of specific biological functions. To understand the physiology and biochemistry of these organelles knowledge of the proteome content is crucial. Here, we address different strategies to predict peroxisomal proteins by bioinformatics approaches. These tools range from simple text searches to network based learning strategies. A complication of this analysis is the existence of cryptic peroxisomal proteins, which are overlooked in conventional bioinformatics queries. These include proteins where targeting information results from transcriptional and posttranscriptional alterations. But also proteins with low efficiency targeting motifs that are predominantly localized in the cytosol, and proteins lacking any canonical targeting information, can play important roles within peroxisomes. Many of these proteins are so far unpredictable. Detection and characterization of these cryptic peroxisomal proteins revealed the presence of novel peroxisomal enzymatic reaction networks in fungi.

Plant peroxisomes are required for a number of fundamental physiological processes, such as primary and secondary metabolism, development and stress response. Indexing the dynamic peroxisome proteome is prerequisite to fully understanding the importance of these organelles. Mass Spectrometry (MS)-based proteome analysis has allowed the identification of novel peroxisomal proteins and pathways in a relatively high-throughput fashion and significantly expanded the list of proteins and biochemical reactions in plant peroxisomes. In this chapter, we summarize the experimental proteomic studies performed in plants, compile a list of ~200 confirmed Arabidopsis peroxisomal proteins, and discuss the diverse plant peroxisome functions with an emphasis on the role of Arabidopsis MS-based proteomics in discovering new peroxisome functions. Many plant peroxisome proteins and biochemical pathways are specific to plants, substantiating the complexity, plasticity and uniqueness of plant peroxisomes. Mapping the full plant peroxisome proteome will provide a knowledge base for the improvement of crop production, quality and stress tolerance.

Our knowledge of the proteome of plant peroxisomes is far from being complete, and the functional complexity and plasticity of this cell organelle are amazingly high particularly in plants, as exemplified by the model species Arabidopsis thaliana. Plant-specific peroxisome functions that have been uncovered only recently include, for instance, the participation of peroxisomes in phylloquinone and biotin biosynthesis. Experimental proteome studies have been proved very successful in defining the proteome of Arabidopsis peroxisomes but this approach also faces significant challenges and limitations. Complementary to experimental approaches, computational methods have emerged as important powerful tools to define the proteome of soluble matrix proteins of plant peroxisomes. Compared to other cell organelles such as mitochondria, plastids and the ER, the simultaneous operation of two major import pathways for soluble proteins in peroxisomes is rather atypical. Novel machine learning prediction approaches have been developed for peroxisome targeting signals type 1 (PTS1) and revealed high sensitivity and specificity, as validated by in vivo subcellular targeting analyses in diverse transient plant expression systems. Accordingly, the algorithms allow the correct prediction of many novel peroxisome-targeted proteins from plant genome sequences and the discovery of additional organelle functions. In contrast, the prediction of PTS2 proteins largely remains restricted to genome searches by conserved patterns contrary to more advanced machine learning methods. Here, we summarize and discuss the capabilities and accuracies of available prediction algorithms for PTS1 and PTS2 carrying proteins.

Despite of their economical and nutritional interest, the biology of fruits is still little studied in comparison with reports of other plant organs such as leaves and roots. Accordingly, research at subcellular and molecular levels is necessary not only to understand the physiology of fruits, but also to improve crop qualities. Efforts addressed to gain knowledge of the peroxisome proteome and how it interacts with the overall metabolism of fruits will provide tools to be used in breeding strategies of agricultural species with added value. In this work, special attention will be paid to peroxisomal proteins involved in the metabolism of reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to the relevant role of these compounds at fruit ripening. The proteome of peroxisomes purified from sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) fruit is reported, where an iron-superoxide dismutase (Fe-SOD) was localized in these organelles, besides other antioxidant enzymes such as catalase and a Mn-SOD, as well as enzymes involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, malate, lipids and fatty acids, amino acids, the glyoxylate cycle and in the potential organelles' movements.

Peroxisomes are single-membrane bound intracellular organelles that can be found in organisms across the tree of eukaryotes, and thus are likely to derive from an ancestral peroxisome in the last eukaryotic common ancestor (LECA). Yet, peroxisomes in different lineages can present a large diversity in terms of their metabolic capabilities, which reflects a highly variable proteomic content. Theories on the evolutionary origin of peroxisomes have shifted in the last decades from scenarios involving an endosymbiotic origin, similar to those of mitochondria and plastids, towards hypotheses purporting an endogenous origin from within the endomembrane system. The peroxisomal proteome is highly dynamic in evolutionary terms, and can evolve via differential loss and gain of proteins, as well as via relocalization of proteins from and to other sub-cellular compartments. Here, I review current knowledge and discussions on the diversity, origin, and evolution of the peroxisomal proteome.

Peroxisome proliferation involves signal recognition and computation by molecular networks that direct molecular events of gene expression, metabolism, membrane biogenesis, organelle proliferation, protein import, and organelle inheritance. Peroxisome biogenesis in yeast has served as a model system for exploring the regulatory networks controlling this process. Yeast is an outstanding model system to develop tools and approaches to study molecular networks and cellular responses and because the mechanisms of peroxisome biogenesis and key aspects of the transcriptional regulatory networks are remarkably conserved from yeast to humans. In this chapter, we focus on the complex regulatory networks that respond to environmental cues leading to peroxisome assembly and the molecular events of organelle assembly. Ultimately, understanding the mechanisms of the entire peroxisome biogenesis program holds promise for predictive modeling approaches and for guiding rational intervention strategies that could treat human conditions associated with peroxisome function.

As a laboratory animal, Drosophila melanogaster has made extensive contributions to understanding many areas of fundamental biology as well as being an effective model for human disease. Until recently, there was relatively little known about fly peroxisomes. There were early studies that examined the role of peroxisome enzymes during development of organs like the eye. However, with the advent of a well-annotated, sequenced genome, several groups have collectively determined, first by sequence homology and increasingly by functional studies, Drosophila Peroxins and related peroxisome proteins. Notably, it was shown that Drosophila peroxisome biogenesis is mediated via a well-conserved PTS1 import system. Although the fly genome encodes a Pex7 homologue, a canonical PTS2 import system does not seem to be conserved in Drosophila. Given the homology between Drosophila and Saccharomyces cerevisiae or Homo sapiens peroxisome biogenesis and function, Drosophila has emerged as an effective multicellular system to model human Peroxisome Biogenesis Disorders. Finally, Drosophila peroxisome research has recently come into its own, facilitating new discoveries into the role of peroxisomes within specific tissues, such as testes or immune cells.

Apicomplexans are successful parasites responsible for severe human diseases including malaria, toxoplasmosis, and cryptosporidiosis. For many years, it has been discussed whether these parasites are in possession of peroxisomes, highly variable eukaryotic organelles usually involved in fatty acid degradation and cellular detoxification. Conflicting experimental data has been published. With the age of genomics, ever more high quality apicomplexan genomes have become available, that now allow a new assessment of the dispute. Here, we provide bioinformatic evidence for the presence of peroxisomes in Toxoplasma gondii and other coccidians. For these organisms, we have identified a complete set of peroxins, probably responsible for peroxisome biogenesis, division, and protein import. Moreover, via a global screening for peroxisomal targeting signals, we were able to show that a complete set of fatty acid β-oxidation enzymes is equipped with either PTS1 or PTS2 sequences, most likely mediating transport of these factors to putative peroxisomes in all investigated Coccidia. Our results further imply a life cycle stage-specific presence of peroxisomes in T. gondii and suggest several independent losses of peroxisomes during the evolution of apicomplexan parasites., (© The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Molecular Biology and Evolution.)

Accumulating evidence indicates that peroxisome functioning, catalase localization, and cellular oxidative balance are intimately interconnected. Nevertheless, it remains largely unclear why modest increases in the cellular redox state especially interfere with the subcellular localization of catalase, the most abundant peroxisomal antioxidant enzyme. This study aimed at gaining more insight into this phenomenon. Therefore, we first established a simple and powerful approach to study peroxisomal protein import and protein-protein interactions in living cells in response to changes in redox state. By employing this approach, we confirm and extend previous observations that Cys-11 of human PEX5, the shuttling import receptor for peroxisomal matrix proteins containing a C-terminal peroxisomal targeting signal (PTS1), functions as a redox switch that modulates the protein's activity in response to intracellular oxidative stress. In addition, we show that oxidative stress affects the import of catalase, a non-canonical PTS1-containing protein, more than the import of a reporter protein containing a canonical PTS1. Furthermore, we demonstrate that changes in the local redox state do not affect PEX5-substrate binding and that human PEX5 does not oligomerize in cellulo, not even when the cells are exposed to oxidative stress. Finally, we present evidence that catalase retained in the cytosol can protect against H 2 O 2 -mediated redox changes in a manner that peroxisomally targeted catalase does not. Together, these findings lend credit to the idea that inefficient catalase import, when coupled with the role of PEX5 as a redox-regulated import receptor, constitutes a cellular defense mechanism to combat oxidative insults of extra-peroxisomal origin., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The peroxisomal ATP-binding Cassette (ABC) transporters, which are called ABCD1, ABCD2 and ABCD3, are transmembrane proteins involved in the transport of various lipids that allow their degradation inside the organelle. Defective ABCD1 leads to the accumulation of very long-chain fatty acids and is associated with a complex and severe neurodegenerative disorder called X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD). Although the nucleotide-binding domain is highly conserved and characterized within the ABC transporters family, solid data are missing for the transmembrane domain (TMD) of ABCD proteins. The lack of a clear consensus on the secondary and tertiary structure of the TMDs weakens any structure-function hypothesis based on the very diverse ABCD1 mutations found in X-ALD patients. Therefore, we first reinvestigated thoroughly the structure-function data available and performed refined alignments of ABCD protein sequences. Based on the 2.85  Å resolution crystal structure of the mitochondrial ABC transporter ABCB10, here we propose a structural model of peroxisomal ABCD proteins that specifies the position of the transmembrane and coupling helices, and highlight functional motifs and putative important amino acid residues., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

The peroxins Pex19 and Pex3 play an indispensable role in peroxisomal membrane protein (PMP) biogenesis, peroxisome division, and inheritance. Pex19 plays multiple roles in these processes, but how these functions relate to the structural organization of the Pex19 domains is unresolved. To this end, using deletion mutants, we mapped the Pex19 regions required for peroxisome biogenesis in the yeast Pichia pastoris Surprisingly, import-competent peroxisomes still formed when Pex19 domains previously believed to be required for biogenesis were deleted, although the peroxisome size was larger than that in wild-type cells. Moreover, these mutants exhibited a delay of 14-24 h in peroxisome biogenesis. The shortest functional N-terminal (NTCs) and C-terminal constructs (CTCs) were Pex19 (aa 1-150) and Pex19 (aa 89-300), respectively. Deletions of the N-terminal Pex3-binding site disrupted the direct interactions of Pex19 with Pex3, but preserved interactions with a membrane peroxisomal targeting signal (mPTS)-containing PMP, Pex10. In contrast, deletion of the C-terminal mPTS-binding domain of Pex19 disrupted its interaction with Pex10 while leaving the Pex19-Pex3 interactions intact. However, Pex11 and Pex25 retained their interactions with both N- and C-terminal deletion mutants. NTC-CTC co-expression improved growth and reversed the larger-than-normal peroxisome size observed with the single deletions. Pex25 was critical for peroxisome formation with the CTC variants, and its overexpression enhanced their interactions with Pex3 and aided the growth of both NTC and CTC Pex19 variants. In conclusion, physical segregation of the Pex3- and PMP-binding domains of Pex19 has provided novel insights into the modular architecture of Pex19. We define the minimum region of Pex19 required for peroxisome biogenesis and a unique role for Pex25 in this process., (© 2017 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.)

The general transcription factor TBP (TATA-box binding protein) and its associated factors (TAFs) together form the TFIID complex, which directs transcription initiation. Through RNAi and mutant analysis, we identified a specific TBP family protein, TRF2, and a set of TAFs that regulate lipid droplet (LD) size in the Drosophila larval fat body. Among the three Drosophila TBP genes, trf2, tbp and trf1, only loss of function of trf2 results in increased LD size. Moreover, TRF2 and TAF9 regulate fatty acid composition of several classes of phospholipids. Through RNA profiling, we found that TRF2 and TAF9 affects the transcription of a common set of genes, including peroxisomal fatty acid β-oxidation-related genes that affect phospholipid fatty acid composition. We also found that knockdown of several TRF2 and TAF9 target genes results in large LDs, a phenotype which is similar to that of trf2 mutants. Together, these findings provide new insights into the specific role of the general transcription machinery in lipid homeostasis.

Transport of penicillin intermediates and penicillin secretion are still poorly characterized in Penicillium chrysogenum (re-identified as Penicillium rubens). Calcium (Ca 2+ ) plays an important role in the metabolism of filamentous fungi, and casein phosphopeptides (CPP) are involved in Ca 2+ internalization. In this study we observe that the effect of CaCl 2 and CPP is additive and promotes an increase in penicillin production of up to 10-12 fold. Combination of CaCl 2 and CPP greatly promotes expression of the three penicillin biosynthetic genes. Comparative proteomic analysis by 2D-DIGE, identified 39 proteins differentially represented in P. chrysogenum Wisconsin 54-1255 after CPP/CaCl 2 addition. The most interesting group of overrepresented proteins were a peroxisomal catalase, three proteins of the methylcitrate cycle, two aminotransferases and cystationine β-synthase, which are directly or indirectly related to the formation of penicillin amino acid precursors. Importantly, two of the enzymes of the penicillin pathway (isopenicillin N synthase and isopenicillin N acyltransferase) are clearly induced after CPP/CaCl 2 addition. Most of these overrepresented proteins are either authentic peroxisomal proteins or microbody-associated proteins. This evidence suggests that addition of CPP/CaCl 2 promotes the formation of penicillin precursors and the penicillin biosynthetic enzymes in peroxisomes and vesicles, which may be involved in transport and secretion of penicillin., Significance: Penicillin biosynthesis in Penicillium chrysogenum is one of the best characterized secondary metabolism processes. However, the mechanism by which penicillin is secreted still remains to be elucidated. Taking into account the role played by Ca 2+ and CPP in the secretory pathway and considering the positive effect that Ca 2+ exerts on penicillin production, the analysis of global protein changes produced after CPP/CaCl 2 addition is very helpful to decipher the processes related to the biosynthesis and secretion of penicillin., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Lysosomes and peroxisomes, contained in all eukaryote cells, are similar but have completely different function. Lysosomes have three dozen different kinds of hydrolytic enzymes and release lysosomal enzymes to digest intra/extracellular materials. The lysosomal enzymes degrade bacteria cell walls and proteins in cell, exhibiting an antimicrobial and anticancerous effect. Peroxisomes contain oxidative enzymes such as peroxidase, D-amino acid oxidase, and catalase allowing the ability to degrade melanin in hyperpigmentation disorders. Exposure of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and HeLa cells to chemical stress alters lysosomal and peroxisomal enzymes. Chemical stresses such as phenylhydrazine, sodium azide, rolipram, NH4Cl, salicylic acid, H2O2 and 6-hydroxdopamine (6-OHDA) have been suggested to stimulate In Vitro function of lysosome and peroxisome-like organelles (LPO) isolated from S. cerevisiae, and we demonstrate activity of LPO in HeLa cells through chemical analysis. The lysosomes of cells exposed to salicylic acid, 6-OHDA and H2O2 had increased antimicrobial and anticancerous activity, and the peroxisomes of cells exposed to phenylhydrazine and sodium azide had reduced effect of melanin degradation. Therefore, our results suggest that activity of lysosomes and peroxisomes can be regulated by several stimuli, therefore lysosomes may be used as antimicrobial agents, apoptosis-inducing materials, or peroxisomal enzymes to be useful agents for cosmeceutical skin lightening and treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders.

Mitochondria are the sites of a diverse set of essential biochemical processes in plants. In order to facilitate the analysis of these functions, this chapter presents protocols for the isolation of intact mitochondria from a range of plant tissues as well two workflows for fractionation into their four subcompartments; the inner and outer membranes and the two aqueous compartments, the inter membrane space and matrix. Protocols for the assessment of mitochondrial integrity and purity through enzymatic function and suggestions of commercially available compartment marker antibodies are provided.

Autolysosomes are organelles that sequester and degrade a portion of the cytoplasm during autophagy. Although autophagosomes are short lived compared to other organelles such as mitochondria, plastids, and peroxisomes, many autolysosomes accumulate in tobacco BY-2 cells cultured under sucrose starvation conditions in the presence of a cysteine protease inhibitor. We here describe our methodology for isolating autolysosomes from BY-2 cells by conventional cell fractionation using a Percoll gradient. The autolysosome fraction separates clearly from fractions containing mitochondria and peroxisomes. It contains acid phosphatase, vacuolar H + -ATPase, and protease activity. Electron micrographs show that the fraction contains partially degraded cytoplasm seen in autolysosomes before isolation although an autolysosome structure is only partially preserved.

Low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) are taken up by the cell mainly through receptor-mediated endocytosis. LDL-derived cholesterol leaves lysosome and further transports to downstream organelles for specific cellular needs. We recently report that cholesterol transfers from lysosome to peroxisome through lysosome-peroxisome membrane contact (LPMC). Here, we use iodixanol density gradient centrifugation to isolate lysosomes and peroxisomes separately for the in vitro reconstitution of LPMC. We also apply 3 H-cholesterol-labeled lysosomes and peroxisomes in vitro to measure 3 H-cholesterol transfer through LPMC.

To date, less than 150 proteins have been located to plant peroxisomes, indicating that unbiased large-scale approaches such as experimental proteome research are required to uncover the remaining yet unknown metabolic functions of this organelle as well as its regulatory mechanisms and membrane proteins. For experimental proteome research, Arabidopsis thaliana is the model plant of choice and an isolation methodology that obtains peroxisomes of sufficient yield and high purity is vital for research on this organelle. However, organelle enrichment is more difficult from Arabidopsis when compared to other plant species and especially challenging for peroxisomes. Leaf peroxisomes from Arabidopsis are very fragile in aqueous solution and show pronounced physical interactions with chloroplasts and mitochondria in vivo that persist in vitro and decrease peroxisome purity. Here, we provide a detailed protocol for the isolation of Arabidopsis leaf peroxisomes using two different types of density gradients (Percoll and sucrose) sequentially that yields approximately 120 μg of peroxisome proteins from 60 g of fresh leaf material. A method is also provided to assess the relative purity of the isolated peroxisomes by immunoblotting to allow selection of the purest peroxisome isolates. To enable the analysis of peroxisomal membrane proteins, an enrichment strategy using sodium carbonate treatment of isolated peroxisome membranes has been adapted to suit isolated leaf peroxisomes and is described here.

In yeast, β-oxidation of fatty acids (FAs) essentially takes place in peroxisomes, and FA activation must precede FA oxidation. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a single fatty-acyl–CoA-synthetase, ScFaa2p, mediates peroxisomal FA activation. We have previously shown that this reaction also exists in the oleaginous yeast Yarrowia lipolytica; however, the protein involved in this process remains unknown. Here, we found that proteins, named Aal proteins (Acyl/Aryl-CoA-ligases), resembling the 4-coumarate–CoA-ligase-like enzymes found in plants are involved in peroxisomal FA activation in Y. lipolytica; Y. lipolytica has 10 AAL genes, eight of which are upregulated by oleate. All the Aal proteins contain a PTS1-type peroxisomal targeting sequence (A/SKL), suggesting a peroxisomal localization. The function of the Aal proteins was analyzed using the faa1Δant1Δ mutant strain, which demonstrates neither cytoplasmic FA activation (direct result of FAA1 deletion) nor peroxisomal FA activation (indirect result of ANT1 deletion, a gene coding an ATP transporter). This strain is thus highly sensitive to external FA levels and unable to store external FAs in lipid bodies (LBs). Whereas the overexpression of (cytoplasmic) AAL1ΔPTS1 was able to partially complement the growth defect observed in the faa1Δant1Δ mutant on short-, medium- and long-chain FA media, the presence of Aal2p to Aal10p only allowed growth on the short-chain FA medium. Additionally, partial LB formation was observed in the oleate medium for strains overexpressing Aal1ΔPTS1p, Aal4ΔPTS1p, Aal7ΔPTS1p, and Aal8ΔPTS1p. Finally, an analysis of the FA content of cells grown in the oleate medium suggested that Aal4p and Aal6p present substrate specificity for C16:1 and/or C18:0.

Peroxisomes proliferate by growth and division of pre-existing peroxisomes or could arise de novo. Though the de novo pathway of peroxisome biogenesis is a more recent discovery, several studies have highlighted key mechanistic details of the pathway. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the primary source of lipids and proteins for the newly-formed peroxisomes. More recently, an intricate sorting process functioning at the ER has been proposed, that segregates specific PMPs first to peroxisome-specific ER domains (pER) and then assembles PMPs selectively into distinct pre-peroxisomal vesicles (ppVs) that later fuse to form import-competent peroxisomes. In addition, plausible roles of the three key peroxins Pex3, Pex16 and Pex19, which are also central to the growth and division pathway, have been suggested in the de novo process. In this review, we discuss key developments and highlight the unexplored avenues in de novo peroxisome biogenesis., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The correct topogenesis of peroxisomal membrane proteins is a crucial step for the formation of functioning peroxisomes. Although this process has been widely studied, the exact mechanism with which it occurs has not yet been fully characterized. Nevertheless, it is generally accepted that peroxisomes employ three proteins - Pex3, Pex19 and Pex16 in mammals - for the insertion of peroxisomal membrane proteins into the peroxisomal membrane. Structural biology approaches have been utilized for the elucidation of the mechanistic questions of peroxisome biogenesis, mainly by providing information on the architecture of the proteins significant for this process. This review aims to summarize, compare and put into perspective the structural knowledge that has been generated mainly for Pex3 and Pex19 and their interaction partners in recent years., (Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Peroxisome number and quality are maintained by its biogenesis and turnover and are important for the homeostasis of peroxisomes. Peroxisomes are increased in number by division with dynamic morphological changes including elongation, constriction, and fission. In the course of peroxisomal division, peroxisomal morphogenesis is orchestrated by Pex11β, dynamin-like protein 1 (DLP1), and mitochondrial fission factor (Mff). Conversely, peroxisome number is reduced by its degradation. Peroxisomes are mainly degraded by pexophagy, a type of autophagy specific for peroxisomes. Upon pexophagy, an adaptor protein translocates on peroxisomal membrane and connects peroxisomes to autophagic machineries. Molecular mechanisms of pexophagy are well studied in yeast systems where several specific adaptor proteins are identified. Pexophagy in mammals also proceeds in a manner dependent on adaptor proteins. In this review, we address the recent progress in studies on peroxisome morphogenesis and pexophagy., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Peroxisomal protein import is essentially different to the translocation of proteins into other organelles. The molecular mechanisms by which completely folded or even oligomerized proteins cross the peroxisomal membrane remain to be disclosed. The identification of a water-filled pore that is mainly constituted by Pex5 and Pex14 led to the assumption that proteins are translocated through a large, probably transient, protein-conducting channel. Here, we will review the work that led to the identification of this translocation pore. In addition, we will discuss the main biophysical features of the pore and compare it with other protein–translocation channels.

Peroxisomes are distinct membrane-enclosed organelles involved in the β-oxidation of fatty acids and synthesis of ether phospholipids (e.g. plasmalogens), as well as cholesterol and its derivatives (e.g. bile acids). Peroxisomes comprise a distinct and highly segregated subset of cellular proteins, including those of the peroxisome membrane and the interior matrix, and while the mechanisms of protein import into peroxisomes have been extensively studied, they are not fully understood. Here we will examine the potential role of RNA trafficking and localized translation on protein import into peroxisomes and its role in peroxisome biogenesis and function. Given that RNAs encoding peroxisome biogenesis (PEX) and matrix proteins have been found in association with the endoplasmic reticulum and peroxisomes, it suggests that localized translation may play a significant role in the import pathways of these different peroxisomal constituents., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

In mammals, peroxisomes perform crucial functions in cellular metabolism, signalling and viral defense which are essential to the health and viability of the organism. In order to achieve this functional versatility peroxisomes dynamically respond to molecular cues triggered by changes in the cellular environment. Such changes elicit a corresponding response in peroxisomes, which manifests itself as a change in peroxisome number, altered enzyme levels and adaptations to the peroxisomal structure. In mammals the generation of new peroxisomes is a complex process which has clear analogies to mitochondria, with both sharing the same division machinery and undergoing a similar division process. How the regulation of this division process is integrated into the cell's response to different stimuli, the signalling pathways and factors involved, remains somewhat unclear. Here, we discuss the mechanism of peroxisomal fission, the contributions of the various division factors and examine the potential impact of post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation, on the proliferation process. We also summarize the signalling process and highlight the most recent data linking signalling pathways with peroxisome proliferation.

Peroxisomes are dynamic organelles that play an essential role in a variety of cellular catabolic and anabolic metabolic pathways, including fatty acid alpha- and beta-oxidation, and plasmalogen and bile acid synthesis. Defects in genes encoding peroxisomal proteins can result in a large variety of peroxisomal disorders either affecting specific metabolic pathways, i.e., the single peroxisomal enzyme deficiencies, or causing a generalized defect in function and assembly of peroxisomes, i.e., peroxisome biogenesis disorders. In this review, we discuss the clinical, biochemical, and genetic aspects of all human peroxisomal disorders currently known., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

This contribution describes the phenotypic differences of yeast peroxisome-deficient mutants (pex mutants). In some cases different phenotypes were reported for yeast mutants deleted in the same PEX gene. These differences are most likely related to the marker proteins and methods used to detect peroxisomal remnants. This is especially evident for pex3 and pex19 mutants, where the localization of receptor docking proteins (Pex13, Pex14) resulted in the identification of peroxisomal membrane remnants, which do not contain other peroxisomal membrane proteins, such as the ring proteins Pex2, Pex10 and Pex12. These structures in pex3 and pex19 cells are the template for peroxisome formation upon introduction of the missing gene. Taken together, these data suggest that in all yeast pex mutants analyzed so far peroxisomes are not formed de novo but use membrane remnant structures as a template for peroxisome formation upon reintroduction of the missing gene. The relevance of this model for peroxisomal membrane protein and lipid sorting to peroxisomes is discussed., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Peroxisomes are dynamic organelles that can adjust their size and number in response to cellular demand and environmental stimuli. They can propagate from pre-existing peroxisomes through growth and division, as well as de novo from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). However, to what extend that these two distinct peroxisome biogenesis pathways are involved in maintaining peroxisome numbers in cycling cells is unclear. Recent studies in yeast suggest that the ER plays a direct role in the maintenance of peroxisomes. However, the role of the ER in mammalian system is under debate. In this review, we outline the recent progress in understanding the biogenesis of mammalian peroxisomes. We herein discuss some of the discrepancies in the literature and the outstanding questions in the field., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Pexophagy, selective degradation of peroxisomes via autophagy, is the main system for reducing organelle abundance. Elucidation of the molecular machinery of pexophagy has been pioneered in studies of the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the methylotrophic yeasts Pichia pastoris and Hansenula polymorpha. Recent analyses using these yeasts have elucidated the molecular machineries of pexophagy, especially in terms of the interactions and modifications of the so-called adaptor proteins required for guiding autophagic membrane biogenesis on the organelle surface. Based on the recent findings, functional relevance of pexophagy and another autophagic pathway, mitophagy (selective autophagy of mitochondria), is discussed. We also discuss the physiological importance of pexophagy in these yeast systems., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

In order to optimize their multiple cellular functions, peroxisomes must collaborate and communicate with the surrounding organelles. A common way of communication between organelles is through physical membrane contact sites where membranes of two organelles are tethered, facilitating exchange of small molecules and intracellular signaling. In addition contact sites are important for controlling processes such as metabolism, organelle trafficking, inheritance and division. How peroxisomes rely on contact sites for their various cellular activities is only recently starting to be appreciated and explored and the extent of peroxisomal communication, their contact sites and their functions are less characterized. In this review we summarize the identified peroxisomal contact sites, their tethering complexes and their potential physiological roles. Additionally, we highlight some of the preliminary evidence that exists in the field for unexplored peroxisomal contact sites., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Organelle inheritance is the process by which eukaryotic cells actively replicate and equitably partition their organelles between mother cell and daughter cell at cytokinesis to maintain the benefits of subcellular compartmentalization. The budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae has proven invaluable in helping to define the factors involved in the inheritance of different organelles and in understanding how these factors act and interact to maintain balance in the organelle populations of actively dividing cells. Inheritance factors can be classified as motors that transport organelles, tethers that retain organelles, and connectors (receptors) that mediate the attachment of organelles to motors and anchors. This article will review how peroxisomes are inherited by cells, with a focus on budding yeast, and will discuss common themes and mechanisms of action that underlie the inheritance of all membrane-enclosed organelles., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

In this review article, we summarize current knowledge on peroxisome biogenesis/functions and the role that small GTPases may play in these processes. Precise intracellular distribution of cell organelles requires their regulated association to microtubules and the actin cytoskeleton. In this respect, RhoGDP/RhoGTP favor binding of peroxisomes to microtubules and actin filaments. In its GTP-bound form, RhoA activates a regulatory cascade involving Rho kinaseII and non-muscle myosinIIA. Such interactions frequently depend on phosphoinositides (PIs) of which PI4P, PI(4,5)P2, and PI(3,5)P2 were found to be present in the peroxisomal membrane. PIs are pivotal determinants of intracellular signaling and known to regulate a wide range of cellular functions. In many of these functions, small GTPases are implicated. The small GTPase ADP-ribosylation factor 1 (Arf1), for example, is known to stimulate synthesis of PI4P and PI(4,5)P2 on the Golgi to regulate protein and lipid sorting. In vitro binding assays localized Arf1 and the COPI complex to peroxisomes. In light of the recent discussion of pre-peroxisomal vesicle generation at the ER, peroxisomal Arf1-COPI vesicles may serve retrograde transport of ER-resident components. A mass spectrometric screen localized various Rab proteins to peroxisomes. Overexpression of these proteins in combination with laser-scanning fluorescence microscopy co-localized Rab6, Rab8, Rab10, Rab14, and Rab18 with peroxisomal structures. By analogy to the role these proteins play in other organelle dynamics, we may envisage what the function of these proteins may be in relation to the peroxisomal compartment., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)