N M Dahms studies how certain proteins in insulin-producing cells help protect these cells from damage caused by palmitate, a type of saturated fat. When these cells are damaged, they can struggle to produce insulin, which is important for regulating blood sugar levels. One key protein they focus on is called CI-MPR, which plays a vital role in the cell's ability to clean away damaged materials. Their work explores how maintaining the function of this protein can prevent the negative effects of fatty acids on insulin-producing cells, potentially leading to new strategies for treating type 2 diabetes.
Key findings
Cells lacking the CI-MPR protein showed a significantly higher vulnerability to damage from palmitate, indicating the protein's protective role.
Research revealed that insulin-producing cells with functioning CI-MPR maintained better health in the presence of fatty acids, suggesting a new target for diabetes treatment.
The study found that enhancing the waste-disposal system in these cells could substantially improve their ability to withstand exposure to saturated fats.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Dahms study diabetes?
Yes, Dr. Dahms focuses specifically on understanding and improving the health of insulin-producing cells, which are crucial in managing diabetes.
What treatments has Dr. Dahms researched?
Their research identifies potential strategies for protecting insulin-producing cells from damage, which could lead to new treatments for type 2 diabetes.
Is Dr. Dahms's work relevant to people with type 2 diabetes?
Absolutely. Their findings could help in developing better therapies aimed at preserving insulin production in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Plain English This study looked at how Schwann cells, which support nerve cells, affect pain in rats with Fabry disease, a condition that causes severe pain. Researchers found that the sensory neurons, which transmit pain signals, were overly active due to a protein called p11 released by Schwann cells. Specifically, they noted that removing p11 led to reduced nerve activity, suggesting that targeting this protein could help alleviate pain in Fabry patients.
Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from Fabry disease who experience chronic pain.
Glycosphingolipids and their impact on platelet activity in a murine model of fabry disease.
2024
Scientific reports
Kanack AJ, Prodoehl E, Ishihara-Aoki M, Aoki K, Dahms NM
Plain English This study looked at how certain compounds in the blood, called glycosphingolipids (GSLs), affect blood platelets in mice with Fabry disease, a genetic disorder that can lead to blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks. The researchers found that female mice with Fabry disease had higher levels of a specific GSL compared to normal mice but lower levels than male mice. This meant the female mice were less likely to have serious blood clotting issues than the male mice. Importantly, they discovered that high levels of one specific GSL, called globotriaosylceramide (Gb3), directly boosted platelet activity, which can result in more blood clots.
Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and patients with Fabry disease by highlighting potential targets for treatment to reduce the risk of blood clots.
Lysosomal enzyme binding to the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor is regulated allosterically by insulin-like growth factor 2.
2024
Scientific reports
Bohnsack RN, Misra SK, Liu J, Ishihara-Aoki M, Pereckas M +4 more
Plain English This study looked at how a protein called the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR) interacts with lysosomal enzymes and the hormone insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2). The researchers found that IGF2 changes the shape of CI-MPR, which prevents it from binding to lysosomal enzymes effectively. This is important because understanding these interactions can help in treating lysosomal storage diseases, where enzyme delivery is crucial for patient health.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with lysosomal storage diseases who need effective treatments.
Plain English This study looked at how certain cells in the nervous system, called Schwann cells, affect the pain and nerve issues in rats with Fabry disease. Researchers found that these Schwann cells release a protein called p11, which seems to make sensory neurons (the nerve cells that send signals about touch and pain) overly active. Specifically, they found that when the p11 protein was present, sensory neurons became much more excitable, contributing to chronic pain in these animals.
Who this helps: This research helps patients with Fabry disease by providing insights into potential new treatments for their pain.
Multiple Domains of Staphylococcal Superantigen-like Protein 11 (SSL11) Contribute to Neutrophil Inhibition.
2022
Biochemistry
Yang C, Barbieri JT, Dahms NM, Chen C
Plain English This study looked at a protein called SSL11 made by the Staphylococcus bacteria, which can weaken the immune system's ability to fight infections. Researchers found that SSL11 can stop immune cells called neutrophils from moving and responding properly, making it easier for the bacteria to survive in the body. Specifically, certain parts of the SSL11 protein were identified as key to its ability to inhibit these immune defenses.
Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of infections from Staphylococcus bacteria, particularly those with weakened immune systems.
Auditory brainstem responses in aging dark agouti rats.
2021
Bioscience reports
Beltrame AK, Dahms NM, Runge CL
Plain English This study looked at how aging affects hearing in dark agouti rats, measuring responses to different sound frequencies from 3 to 18 months old. The findings showed that male rats' hearing worsened significantly by 18 months, while females maintained stable hearing throughout this period. Notably, older rats, especially females, showed delays in their auditory responses, indicating potential age-related hearing loss.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying age-related hearing loss and may inform treatments for patients experiencing similar age-related hearing issues.
Tissue plasminogen activator is a ligand of cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor and consists of glycoforms that contain mannose 6-phosphate.
2021
Scientific reports
Miller JJ, Bohnsack RN, Olson LJ, Ishihara M, Aoki K +2 more
Plain English This study looked at how tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), a protein important for breaking down blood clots, interacts with a specific receptor (CI-MPR) in the body. The researchers found that tPA binds to CI-MPR with a strong affinity and that this interaction is influenced by a sugar molecule called mannose 6-phosphate (M6P) present on tPA. These findings could be significant because they enhance our understanding of how tPA works and may lead to improved treatments for conditions related to blood clots.
Who this helps: This helps patients who are at risk for blood clotting disorders.
Platelet and myeloid cell phenotypes in a rat model of Fabry disease.
2021
FASEB journal : official publication of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology
Kanack AJ, Aoki K, Tiemeyer M, Dahms NM
Plain English This study looked at how a specific inherited disease called Fabry disease affects certain blood cells in rats. Researchers found that rats with Fabry disease had a buildup of certain harmful substances in their bodies, leading to an increase in inflammatory blood cells and platelets. Specifically, these rats showed a significant rise in pro-inflammatory cytokine-producing cells, which was linked to higher risks of blood clots and strokes, conditions that severely impact the health and life expectancy of patients.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients with Fabry disease by providing insights that could lead to better treatment strategies for reducing complications.
Progress in the understanding and treatment of Fabry disease.
2020
Biochimica et biophysica acta. General subjects
Miller JJ, Kanack AJ, Dahms NM
Plain English This research focused on Fabry disease, a genetic condition caused by a lack of a specific enzyme that leads to serious health problems like pain, kidney failure, heart disease, and strokes. The study found that enzyme replacement and chaperone therapies are currently available for treating this disease, while new methods like gene therapies are being developed. As more countries start testing for Fabry disease in newborns, the number of diagnosed patients will grow, highlighting the need for better treatments and understanding of the disease.
Who this helps: Patients with Fabry disease and their healthcare providers.
Allosteric regulation of lysosomal enzyme recognition by the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
2020
Communications biology
Olson LJ, Misra SK, Ishihara M, Battaile KP, Grant OC +7 more
Plain English This study looked at how a special receptor in our cells, called CI-MPR, helps deliver enzymes to certain parts of cells (lysosomes) that are important for breaking down waste. The researchers found that the CI-MPR changes shape when it binds to different molecules and under varying pH levels, which helps it efficiently recognize and bind to these enzymes. Understanding this process could improve treatments for diseases where these enzymes are not functioning properly.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients with lysosomal storage diseases who require enzyme replacement therapy.
α-Galactosidase A-deficient rats accumulate glycosphingolipids and develop cardiorenal phenotypes of Fabry disease.
2019
FASEB journal : official publication of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology
Miller JJ, Aoki K, Mascari CA, Beltrame AK, Sokumbi O +4 more
Plain English This study looked at a new model of Fabry disease using specially bred rats that lack the enzyme α-galactosidase A. The researchers found that male Fabry rats had a shorter lifespan and accumulated harmful substances in their kidneys and hearts, showing symptoms similar to those seen in human patients, like kidney dysfunction and heart valve thickening. These findings are important because they provide a better understanding of how Fabry disease affects the body, which could lead to improved treatments.
Who this helps: Patients with Fabry disease and their doctors.
Rats deficient in α-galactosidase A develop ocular manifestations of Fabry disease.
2019
Scientific reports
Miller JJ, Aoki K, Reid CA, Tiemeyer M, Dahms NM +1 more
Plain English Researchers studied rats that lack a specific enzyme called α-galactosidase A, which models Fabry disease. They found that these rats developed eye problems more severely than normal rats, including cloudy corneas and lenses, and some had leaking blood vessels in their eyes. This is important because it shows that these rats can help scientists understand how Fabry disease affects the eyes and whether eye symptoms can be used to measure how well treatments are working.
Who this helps: This helps patients with Fabry disease and their doctors.
Cloning, Expression, and Purification of the Glycosylated Transmembrane Protein, Cation-Dependent Mannose 6-Phosphate Receptor, from Sf9 Cells Using the Baculovirus System.
2018
Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)
Olson LJ, Dahms NM
Plain English This study focused on a specific protein called the cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CD-MPR), which helps transport important enzymes within cells. Researchers developed a new method to produce and purify enough of this protein—about a hundred milligrams—to allow for detailed structural studies. This advance is significant because it makes it easier to study this protein and understand its role in disease.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists studying cell biology and related diseases.
Miller JJ, Aoki K, Moehring F, Murphy CA, O'Hara CL +3 more
Plain English This study looked at how neuropathic pain develops in a rat model of Fabry disease, a condition that leads to various health problems and a shorter life span. The researchers found that the Fabry rats had high levels of specific fatty substances linked to the disease and showed significant sensitivity to pain. They identified a protein, TRPA1, that is more active in the sensory nerves of these rats, and blocking this protein reduced the pain sensitivity, suggesting a new way to treat pain in people with Fabry disease.
Who this helps: This helps patients with Fabry disease who experience chronic pain.
Cation-Independent Mannose 6-Phosphate Receptor Deficiency Enhances β-Cell Susceptibility to Palmitate.
2018
Molecular and cellular biology
Baldwin AC, Naatz A, Bohnsack RN, Bartosiak JT, Oleson BJ +3 more
Plain English Researchers discovered that insulin-producing cells protect themselves from damage caused by palmitate (a common fatty acid) by using a cellular cleanup system called lysosomes to break down and remove damaged proteins. Cells that lacked a specific protein needed to deliver garbage to lysosomes were much more vulnerable to palmitate damage, while cells with this protein intact survived better. This finding suggests that keeping the lysosomal cleanup system working properly is essential for pancreatic cells to survive when exposed to excess fat.
Identification of a fourth mannose 6-phosphate binding site in the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
2015
Glycobiology
Olson LJ, Castonguay AC, Lasanajak Y, Peterson FC, Cummings RD +2 more
Plain English This study focused on a receptor in our cells called the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR), which is important for transporting enzymes to the lysosome, a part of the cell that breaks down waste. The researchers found that this receptor has a fourth binding site, besides the known three, which can grab specific sugars called mannose 6-phosphate (M6P) and M6P-GlcNAc. This is significant because understanding this binding can help in developing treatments for conditions related to lysosomal function and enzyme transport.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and healthcare providers understand more about lysosomal diseases and how to treat them.
Glucosidase II and MRH-domain containing proteins in the secretory pathway.
2015
Current protein & peptide science
D'Alessio C, Dahms NM
Plain English This research focused on how certain proteins in cells help process sugar molecules attached to new proteins in a part of the cell called the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The study found that a protein called glucosidase II plays a crucial role in checking whether these newly formed proteins are folded correctly, with 3D structures revealing how different proteins bind to unique sugar signals. Understanding these processes is important because it helps us grasp how cells manage protein quality control, which is vital for proper cellular function and can influence diseases related to protein misfolding, like Alzheimer's.
Who this helps: This helps patients with diseases linked to protein misfolding and doctors treating these conditions.
Crystal Structure and Functional Analyses of the Lectin Domain of Glucosidase II: Insights into Oligomannose Recognition.
2015
Biochemistry
Olson LJ, Orsi R, Peterson FC, Parodi AJ, Kim JJ +2 more
Plain English This study looked at how a protein called Glucosidase II (GII) helps process sugars during protein production in cells. Researchers found that a specific part of GII, known as the MRH domain, affects how GII recognizes and binds to sugar molecules. They discovered that a specific amino acid (Y372) is crucial for GII’s function, as changing it reduces the protein's activity.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists looking to improve understanding of protein processing, which can impact various medical treatments.
Bacterial expression of the phosphodiester-binding site of the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor for crystallographic and NMR studies.
2015
Protein expression and purification
Olson LJ, Jensen DR, Volkman BF, Kim JJ, Peterson FC +2 more
Plain English This study focused on a specific part of a protein called the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR), which helps cells manage their waste and support various functions like development and tumor suppression. Researchers successfully produced and analyzed this protein segment, revealing that it actively binds to specialized sugars, which is important for understanding how the protein works in the body. They found that the protein could be crystallized, allowing further study of its structure, which can lead to advancements in medical research.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists working on diseases related to cellular waste management and lysosome function.
Expression of insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor in corneal keratocytes during differentiation and in response to wound healing.
2014
Investigative ophthalmology & visual science
Bohnsack RN, Warejcka DJ, Wang L, Gillespie SR, Bernstein AM +2 more
Plain English This study looked at a protein called the insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor (IGF2R) in cells from the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. Researchers found that IGF2R levels increased significantly during corneal healing—by about 11 times in wounded areas—suggesting it plays an important role in this process. Understanding how IGF2R affects healing can help improve treatments for corneal injuries.
Who this helps: This helps patients with corneal injuries and doctors treating eye conditions.
Glycosylation-independent lysosomal targeting of acid α-glucosidase enhances muscle glycogen clearance in pompe mice.
2013
The Journal of biological chemistry
Maga JA, Zhou J, Kambampati R, Peng S, Wang X +7 more
Plain English This study looked at a new way to deliver an enzyme called acid α-glucosidase (GAA) to help clear excess glycogen in the muscles of mice with Pompe disease. By attaching a special tag (GILT) to the enzyme, researchers found that it was absorbed by muscle cells 25 times better than the standard version of the enzyme. This improved delivery resulted in a significantly better ability to reduce glycogen buildup in the muscles, making it a promising option for treating Pompe disease.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with Pompe disease who need better treatment options.
Structure of the lectin mannose 6-phosphate receptor homology (MRH) domain of glucosidase II, an enzyme that regulates glycoprotein folding quality control in the endoplasmic reticulum.
2013
The Journal of biological chemistry
Olson LJ, Orsi R, Alculumbre SG, Peterson FC, Stigliano ID +3 more
Plain English This study looked at the structure of a specific part of an enzyme called glucosidase II (GII), which helps proteins fold properly inside cells. The researchers discovered that the part, known as the MRH domain, has a unique shape that can only hold one sugar molecule, making it the shallowest binding pocket known for this type of structure. Understanding GII's structure helps clarify how it works to trim sugars from proteins, which is crucial for maintaining healthy cell functioning.
Who this helps: This information benefits researchers and doctors who are studying protein folding and related diseases.
Preparation of a mannose-6-phosphate glycan microarray through fluorescent derivatization, phosphorylation, and immobilization of natural high-mannose N-glycans and application in ligand identification of P-type lectins.
2012
Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)
Song X, Heimburg-Molinaro J, Dahms NM, Smith DF, Cummings RD
Plain English This study focused on creating a special type of microarray, or a testing platform, to explore how certain sugars (glycans) interact with proteins called lectins. The researchers discovered effective ways to prepare and label these sugars, allowing them to identify which sugars are recognized by specific lectins, particularly those involved in transporting proteins in the body. This finding is significant because it enhances our understanding of how certain diseases operate at the molecular level, potentially leading to better treatments.
Who this helps: Patients with diseases linked to glycan-lectin interactions.
The glycan-binding properties of the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor are evolutionary conserved in vertebrates.
2012
Glycobiology
Castonguay AC, Lasanajak Y, Song X, Olson LJ, Cummings RD +2 more
Plain English This study examined how a specific receptor, called the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR), operates in different vertebrates by looking at its ability to bind to certain sugars. Researchers found that the CI-MPR in zebrafish (Danio rerio) has three binding sites that work similarly to those in cows, indicating that this function has been preserved throughout evolution. This matters because understanding how CI-MPR functions can help improve treatments related to lysosomal storage diseases and other conditions.
Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and patients with lysosomal disorders.
Mannose 6-phosphate receptor homology (MRH) domain-containing lectins in the secretory pathway.
2011
Biochimica et biophysica acta
Castonguay AC, Olson LJ, Dahms NM
Plain English This study looked at a group of proteins called MRH domain-containing proteins, which are involved in the process of how cells produce and transport important molecules. Researchers found that these proteins, especially the mannose 6-phosphate receptors (MPRs), are crucial for helping enzymes reach their proper destination inside cells. Specifically, they discovered that MPRs bind to a sugar called mannose 6-phosphate, which is vital for delivering enzymes to lysosomes, the cell’s waste disposal units.
Who this helps: This research benefits medical researchers and doctors targeting lysosomal storage diseases and related disorders.
Intermonomer interactions are essential for lysosomal enzyme binding by the cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
2010
Biochemistry
Olson LJ, Sun G, Bohnsack RN, Peterson FC, Dahms NM +1 more
Plain English This study looked at the cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CD-MPR), which helps transport important enzymes to lysosomes inside cells. Researchers found that when they made a specific change to the receptor, it significantly decreased its ability to bind to these enzymes—specifically, it was 60% less effective at binding compared to the normal receptor. This matters because understanding how the CD-MPR works can help improve treatments for diseases related to enzyme delivery dysfunction.
Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working on treatments for lysosomal storage diseases.
Residues essential for plasminogen binding by the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
2010
Biochemistry
Bohnsack RN, Patel M, Olson LJ, Twining SS, Dahms NM
Plain English This study focused on how a particular protein called the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR) binds to plasminogen, a protein involved in breaking down blood clots. Researchers found that two specific parts (lysine residues) of the CI-MPR are crucial for this binding; namely, Lys53 and Lys125, which help the receptor recognize plasminogen effectively. The ability to understand this interaction is important because it could lead to better treatments for conditions related to blood clotting.
Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of blood clot-related issues and their healthcare providers.
Structural basis for recognition of phosphodiester-containing lysosomal enzymes by the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
2010
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
Olson LJ, Peterson FC, Castonguay A, Bohnsack RN, Kudo M +4 more
Plain English This study looked at how a specific receptor in our cells (the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor, or CI-MPR) recognizes certain enzymes that are important for breaking down materials in lysosomes, the cell's waste disposal units. Researchers found that domain 5 of the CI-MPR has a unique structure that allows it to recognize these enzymes, even when some of them are not fully matured, meaning they can still get to the lysosomes effectively. Understanding this process is crucial because it helps ensure that important enzymes reach their destination, which is vital for normal cell function and development.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with lysosomal storage disorders and their doctors.
Carbohydrate recognition by the mannose-6-phosphate receptors.
2009
Current opinion in structural biology
Kim JJ, Olson LJ, Dahms NM
Plain English This study looked at two types of receptors in the body, the cation-dependent and cation-independent mannose-6-phosphate receptors, which help transport specific proteins called acid hydrolases to the right part of the cell. Researchers found that one of these receptors (CD-MPR) can change shape, having two stable forms—one that grabs onto its cargo and another that lets go. This understanding is important because it reveals how these receptors function in our cells, which can have implications for treating diseases related to cellular transport.
Who this helps: This helps patients with genetic disorders or other conditions linked to cellular transport issues.
Song X, Lasanajak Y, Olson LJ, Boonen M, Dahms NM +3 more
Plain English This study focused on how two types of receptors, CI-MPR and CD-MPR, recognize specific sugar molecules called glycans that have phosphate groups attached. The researchers found that the CI-MPR receptor strongly binds to glycans with phosphate, while the CD-MPR receptor binds well to some but not all types. This difference is important because it helps us understand how certain enzymes are targeted to the right parts of our cells, which could impact treatments for diseases involving enzyme deficiencies.
Who this helps: This benefits scientists and doctors working on therapies for enzyme-related diseases.
Cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor: a composite of distinct phosphomannosyl binding sites.
2009
The Journal of biological chemistry
Bohnsack RN, Song X, Olson LJ, Kudo M, Gotschall RR +4 more
Plain English This study looked at a protein called the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR) that helps transport important enzymes to the lysosomes in cells. Researchers found that the CI-MPR has three different sites that can recognize specific sugar structures; one of these sites (domain 5) can bind about 60 times better when it works alongside another site (domain 3). Understanding how these sites work together is crucial because it helps clarify how cells manage and deliver these enzymes, which is important for many bodily functions.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working on treatments for lysosomal storage diseases.
Structural insights into the mechanism of pH-dependent ligand binding and release by the cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
2008
The Journal of biological chemistry
Olson LJ, Hindsgaul O, Dahms NM, Kim JJ
Plain English This study focused on the cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CD-MPR), which plays a crucial role in transporting certain enzymes within cells. Researchers found that the receptor binds to these enzymes most effectively at a certain pH level (about 6.5) and releases them in more acidic conditions (below 5.5). Understanding how changes in pH affect this binding process is important because it helps clarify how cells transport essential enzymes, which can impact treatments for various diseases.
Who this helps: This helps patients requiring enzyme replacement therapies and doctors managing related conditions.
Strategies for carbohydrate recognition by the mannose 6-phosphate receptors.
2008
Glycobiology
Dahms NM, Olson LJ, Kim JJ
Plain English This study looked at two types of receptors, called mannose 6-phosphate receptors, which are important for transporting enzymes in the body. Researchers found that these receptors can recognize specific sugar molecules on proteins, helping to direct around 60 different enzymes to their proper places in cells. Understanding how these receptors work is important because it reveals how the body processes and delivers essential proteins, which can have implications for diseases related to lysosomal functions.
Who this helps: This helps patients with lysosomal storage disorders and their doctors.
Domain 5 of the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor preferentially binds phosphodiesters (mannose 6-phosphate N-acetylglucosamine ester).
2007
Biochemistry
Chavez CA, Bohnsack RN, Kudo M, Gotschall RR, Canfield WM +1 more
Plain English This study focused on a specific part of a receptor, called domain 5 of the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR), to see how well it binds to certain sugar-like molecules that help direct enzymes to the cell's waste disposal system. The research found that domain 5 binds 14 to 18 times more strongly to a specific type of sugar called mannose 6-phosphate N-acetylglucosamine ester than to another type called mannose 6-phosphate, suggesting that this domain is important for acknowledging these sugars and helping with enzyme delivery. This discovery helps enhance our understanding of how enzymes are transported within cells, which could lead to better treatments for conditions related to enzyme deficiencies.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with enzyme-related disorders and the doctors treating them.
Identification of residues essential for carbohydrate recognition and cation dependence of the 46-kDa mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
2005
Glycobiology
Sun G, Zhao H, Kalyanaraman B, Dahms NM
Plain English This study focused on a receptor called the 46-kDa mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CD-MPR), which is important for transporting enzymes to lysosomes, the cell's waste disposal units. Researchers found that changing specific building blocks (amino acids) in the receptor led to a significant drop in its ability to bind to these enzymes, particularly when four specific amino acids were altered, resulting in over an 800-fold decrease in binding strength. Additionally, the presence of the mineral manganese (Mn2+) increased the receptor's binding strength by 2-4 times and helped the receptor form larger complexes with the enzymes.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists developing treatments for lysosomal storage disorders and related diseases.
Structure of uPAR, plasminogen, and sugar-binding sites of the 300 kDa mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
2004
The EMBO journal
Olson LJ, Yammani RD, Dahms NM, Kim JJ
Plain English This study focused on a protein called the mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR), which plays a key role in transporting certain enzymes inside cells and interacting with other important proteins. Researchers determined the precise arrangement of parts of this receptor at a very detailed level, revealing that certain binding sites are positioned on opposite sides of the receptor structure. Understanding this arrangement is important because it helps explain how this receptor interacts with various molecules, which is crucial for cell growth and movement.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and medical professionals working on therapies related to cell growth and disease.
The N-terminal carbohydrate recognition site of the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
2004
The Journal of biological chemistry
Olson LJ, Dahms NM, Kim JJ
Plain English This study focused on a specific receptor in our bodies, called the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR), which is important for delivering certain proteins to a part of the cell called the lysosome. Researchers found that this receptor has two key areas that really grab onto sugars, and one of these areas (domain 9) binds very tightly to sugars, while another (domain 3) binds much less effectively. Knowing how this receptor works is important because it helps us understand how certain proteins are processed in our bodies, which could impact treatments for diseases related to protein trafficking.
Who this helps: This research helps scientists and doctors who are working on treatments for lysosomal storage diseases.
Identification of a low affinity mannose 6-phosphate-binding site in domain 5 of the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
2004
The Journal of biological chemistry
Reddy ST, Chai W, Childs RA, Page JD, Feizi T +1 more
Plain English This study looked at a specific part of a protein called the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR), which helps deliver important enzymes to a cell's recycling center, the lysosome. Researchers found that domain 5 of this receptor can bind to a type of sugar called mannose 6-phosphate, but not as strongly as other regions of the protein. Specifically, it binds about 300 times weaker than the stronger binding sites, which is important because it indicates that the receptor has multiple ways it can interact with these sugars, even if some are weaker.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and researchers studying cell biology and enzyme delivery methods in various medical conditions.
Mannose 6-phosphate receptors: new twists in the tale.
2003
Nature reviews. Molecular cell biology
Ghosh P, Dahms NM, Kornfeld S
Plain English This research focused on two mannose 6-phosphate receptors that help transport specific enzymes within cells. The study found that one of these receptors not only assists in moving enzymes but also plays a role in controlling cell growth and movement, acting as a tumor suppressor. Understanding these functions is important because it could lead to new approaches in cancer treatment.
Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly those with cancer.
Transcobalamin II receptor interacts with megalin in the renal apical brush border membrane.
2003
The Journal of membrane biology
Yammani RR, Seetharam S, Dahms NM, Seetharam B
Plain English This study looked at how a protein called transcobalamin II receptor (TC II-R) interacts with another protein called megalin in the kidneys. Researchers found that TC II-R attaches to megalin strongly, and this interaction is crucial for helping the kidneys reabsorb essential proteins, including vitamin B12 (Cobalamin). They discovered that when certain antibodies were present, levels of TC II-R dropped significantly in the kidneys, leading to increased loss of important proteins in urine.
Who this helps: This research helps patients with kidney problems and doctors managing vitamin deficiencies.
Biochemical and functional properties of the full-length cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor expressed in Pichia pastoris.
2003
Biochemical and biophysical research communications
Reddy ST, Kumar SN, Haas AL, Dahms NM
Plain English This research focused on a specific receptor important for transporting enzymes within cells, created using yeast for study. The researchers found that this receptor strongly binds to a particular enzyme at a concentration of 2 nanomolar and identified key structural features that make it suitable for further structural analysis. Understanding this receptor helps in revealing how enzymes are moved into cells, which is crucial for treating certain diseases.
Who this helps: Patients with enzyme-related disorders.
Basolateral sorting signal of the 300-kDa mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
2002
American journal of physiology. Gastrointestinal and liver physiology
Wick DA, Seetharam B, Dahms NM
Plain English This study looked at how a specific receptor, called IGF-II/MPR, is sorted and delivered to the correct part of the cell surface in human colon cancer cells. Researchers found that certain sequences in the receptor's structure are essential for sending it to the basolateral surface, where it is three times more concentrated. Understanding this process is important because it helps explain how proteins are properly distributed in cells, which can influence cancer progression and treatment.
Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working on cancer therapies.
Twists and turns of the cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor. Ligand-bound versus ligand-free receptor.
2002
The Journal of biological chemistry
Olson LJ, Zhang J, Dahms NM, Kim JJ
Plain English This study looked at how mannose 6-phosphate receptors (MPRs) work, specifically how they grab hold of and release their cargo as they move between different environments inside cells. Researchers found that these receptors change shape when they bind to their cargo and then release it, similar to how hemoglobin changes when it picks up or drops off oxygen. They identified specific amino acids that are crucial for this binding and release process, which happens because of changes in pH levels; for instance, one amino acid called Glu(133) helps the receptor let go of its cargo in acidic conditions.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists working on targeted drug delivery and lysosomal storage disorders.
Identification of residues essential for carbohydrate recognition by the insulin-like growth factor II/mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
2002
The Journal of biological chemistry
Hancock MK, Haskins DJ, Sun G, Dahms NM
Plain English This study looked at how specific parts of a protein called the insulin-like growth factor II/mannose 6-phosphate receptor (IGF-II/MPR) recognize a sugar molecule known as mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P). Researchers found that eight specific amino acids in the IGF-II/MPR are crucial for this recognition—four in one section of the protein and four in another. Understanding how these proteins interact with sugars matters because it can help improve treatments that involve these pathways.
Who this helps: Patients who rely on therapies using these proteins for disease management.
Loss of albumin and megalin binding to renal cubilin in rats results in albuminuria after total body irradiation.
2002
American journal of physiology. Regulatory, integrative and comparative physiology
Yammani RR, Sharma M, Seetharam S, Moulder JE, Dahms NM +1 more
Plain English Researchers studied how total body irradiation (TBI) affects kidney function in rats, specifically looking at proteins called cubilin and megalin that help the kidneys handle albumin, a type of protein found in blood. After the irradiation, the rats showed a significant increase in albumin in their urine, indicating kidney issues, with albumin binding to kidney proteins dropping by 80%. This reveals that after TBI, the kidneys lose their ability to effectively manage albumin, which could lead to further kidney damage.
Who this helps: This helps patients who undergo radiation therapy, particularly those with existing kidney concerns.
Plain English Researchers looked at two types of proteins called P-type lectins, which help move specific enzymes to compartments in cells known as lysosomes, crucial for breaking down materials. They found that the insulin-like growth factor II/mannose 6-phosphate receptor (IGF-II/MPR) can detect a variety of important substances and plays a role in various physiological processes. Understanding these proteins helps in figuring out how they can affect several body functions and their potential impact on diseases.
Who this helps: This benefits patients and doctors by improving knowledge of how certain diseases work and guiding treatment options.
Localization of the carbohydrate recognition sites of the insulin-like growth factor II/mannose 6-phosphate receptor to domains 3 and 9 of the extracytoplasmic region.
2002
The Journal of biological chemistry
Hancock MK, Yammani RD, Dahms NM
Plain English This study looked at how specific parts of a receptor, known as the insulin-like growth factor II/mannose 6-phosphate receptor, recognize and bind to certain carbohydrates. The researchers found that domain 9 of the receptor binds strongly to these carbohydrates with a measurement of 0.3 nanomolar, while domain 3 binds much more weakly, at about 500 nanomolar. Understanding how these binding sites work is important because it can help develop better treatments that target these specific receptors in the body.
Who this helps: This helps patients who might benefit from improved therapies targeting this receptor.
High-level expression and characterization of a secreted recombinant cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor in Pichia pastoris.
2002
Protein expression and purification
Reddy ST, Dahms NM
Plain English This study looked at a specific protein called the mannose 6-phosphate receptor, which is important for targeting enzymes to cell lysosomes. Researchers found that using a type of yeast called Pichia pastoris to produce this protein yielded about 28 mg of it per liter, which is 10 to 100 times more than traditional methods using insect or mammalian cells. This improvement means that scientists can now produce this important protein in larger quantities for research, which could help in understanding diseases related to lysosomal malfunctions.
Who this helps: Patients with lysosomal storage disorders and researchers studying enzyme therapies.
Recognition of Dictyostelium discoideum lysosomal enzymes is conferred by the amino-terminal carbohydrate binding site of the insulin-like growth factor II/mannose 6-phosphate receptor.
Plain English This study explored how a specific receptor in cells helps recognize enzymes that are important for breaking down materials in the lysosome, which acts like a recycling center in the cell. Researchers found that one part of the receptor binds more effectively to certain modified sugars found on these enzymes, specifically showing a 14-55 times stronger binding for one type of sugar compared to another part of the receptor. Understanding these mechanisms is important because it can help improve treatments involving lysosomal storage diseases, where these enzymes do not function properly.
Who this helps: This helps patients with lysosomal storage diseases and their doctors.