Journal Article

A C. elegans Zona Pellucida domain protein functions via its ZPc domain

Sundaram, Meera V., Cohen, Jennifer D., Good, Matthew C., Bermudez, Jessica G.

2020

Overview

Zona Pellucida domain (ZP) proteins are critical components of the body’s external-most protective layers, apical extracellular matrices (aECMs). Although their loss or dysfunction is associated with many diseases, it remains unclear how ZP proteins assemble in aECMs. Current models suggest that ZP proteins polymerize via their ZPn subdomains, while ZPc subdomains modulate ZPn behavior. Using the model organism C . elegans , we investigated the aECM assembly of one ZP protein, LET-653, which shapes several tubes. Contrary to prevailing models, we find that LET-653 localizes and functions via its ZPc domain. Furthermore, we show that ZPc domain function requires cleavage at the LET-653 C-terminus, likely in part to relieve inhibition of the ZPc by the ZPn domain, but also to promote some other aspect of ZPc domain function. In vitro , the ZPc, but not ZPn, domain bound crystalline aggregates. These data offer a new model for ZP function whereby the ZPc domain is primarily responsible for matrix incorporation and tissue shaping.

• Publisher: Public Library of Science,Public Library of Science (PLoS)
• Subject: Animals / Animals, Genetically Modified / Biology and Life Sciences / Caenorhabditis elegans / Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins - genetics / Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins - metabolism / Cell Line / Drosophila / Embryo, Nonmammalian / Embryos / Excretory system / Extracellular matrix / Extracellular Matrix - metabolism / Incorporation / Invertebrates / Medicine and Health Sciences / Membranes / Models, Animal / Mucins - genetics / Mucins - metabolism / Mutants / Mutation / Physical Sciences / Physiological aspects / Polymerization / Protein Aggregates - genetics / Protein Domains - genetics / Proteins / Research and Analysis Methods / Zona pellucida