J 2024

Optimizing properties of translocation-enhancing transmembrane proteins

BARTOŠ, Ladislav; Martina DRABINOVÁ and Robert VÁCHA

Basic information

Original name

Optimizing properties of translocation-enhancing transmembrane proteins

Authors

BARTOŠ, Ladislav; Martina DRABINOVÁ and Robert VÁCHA

Edition

BIOPHYSICAL JOURNAL, UNITED STATES, CELL PRESS, 2024, 0006-3495

Other information

Language

English

Type of outcome

Article in a journal

Country of publisher

United States of America

Confidentiality degree

is not subject to a state or trade secret

References:

URL

Marked to be transferred to RIV

Yes

RIV identification code

RIV/00216224:14740/24:00136035

Organization

Středoevropský technologický institut – Repository – Repository

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpj.2024.04.009

UT WoS

001300570200001

EID Scopus

2-s2.0-85190953360

Keywords in English

FORCE-FIELD; MOLECULAR-DYNAMICS; VALIDATION; EXTENSION; PEPTIDES; MEMBRANES

Links

LX22NPO5103, research and development project. 101001470, interní kód Repo. e-INFRA CZ II, large research infrastructures.
Changed: 4/6/2025 00:50, RNDr. Daniel Jakubík

Abstract

In the original language

Cell membranes act as semi-permeable barriers, often restricting the entry of large or hydrophilic molecules. Nonetheless, certain amphiphilic molecules, such as antimicrobial and cell-penetrating peptides, can cross these barriers. In this study, we demonstrate that specific properties of transmembrane proteins/peptides can enhance membrane permeation of amphiphilic peptides. Using coarse-grained molecular dynamics with free-energy calculations, we identify key translocation-enhancing attributes of transmembrane proteins/peptides: a continuous hydrophilic patch, charged residues preferably in the membrane center, and aromatic hydrophobic residues. By employing both coarse-grained and atomistic simulations, complemented by experimental validation, we show that these properties not only enhance peptide translocation but also speed up lipid flip-flop. The enhanced flip-flop reinforces the idea that proteins such as scramblases and insertases not only share structural features but also operate through identical biophysical mechanisms enhancing the insertion and translocation of amphiphilic molecules. Our insights offer guidelines for the designing of translocation-enhancing proteins/peptides that could be used in medical and biotechnological applications.
Displayed: 3/5/2026 03:49