Molecular determinants of human dipeptidyl peptidase III sensitivity to thiol modifying reagents

Zrinka Karačić1, Jasminka Špoljarić, Marko Rožman

  • 1Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Horvatovac 102a, Zagreb, Croatia.

Insights

Human dipeptidyl peptidase III (DPP III) susceptibility to sulfhydryl reagents was investigated. Cysteine 176, distant from the active site, is key to DPP III inactivation, suggesting a broader substrate-binding site.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Enzymology
  • Metallopeptidases

Background:

  • Human dipeptidyl peptidase III (DPP III) is a metallopeptidase involved in protein metabolism and oxidative stress.
  • DPP III has a bilobal structure with six cysteine residues crucial for its function.
  • Understanding cysteine reactivity is vital for elucidating enzyme mechanisms and drug interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the molecular basis of human DPP III susceptibility to sulfhydryl reagents.
  • To identify specific cysteine residues involved in enzyme inactivation by various reagents.
  • To explore the role of distant cysteines in enzyme activity and substrate binding.

Main Methods:

  • Biochemical analysis of cysteine-to-alanine mutants of human DPP III.
  • Mass spectrometry to identify modified cysteine residues.
  • Enzyme activity assays using sulfhydryl reagents and oxidized glutathione (GSSG).

Main Results:

  • Cysteine 176 (Cys176) was identified as the primary site of inactivation by organomercurial compounds.
  • Cys176 and Cys654 were confirmed to be involved in GSSG-induced inactivation.
  • Glutathionylation occurred at Cys147, Cys176, and Cys654 upon GSSG treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Human DPP III's susceptibility to sulfhydryl reagents is mediated by specific cysteine residues, including Cys176.
  • The involvement of Cys176 in inactivation suggests the substrate-binding site extends beyond the catalytic domain.
  • These findings provide insights into the structural and functional properties of human DPP III and its interactions with reactive species.