3D Reconstruction of HvRNASET2 Molecule to Understand Its Antibacterial Role
Basic science / structural biology published in Int J Mol Sci (2020)
Abstract
Recent studies performed on the invertebrate model Hirudo verbana (medicinal leech) suggest that the T2 ribonucleic enzyme HvRNASET2 modulates the leech's innate immune response, promoting microbial agglutination and supporting phagocytic cells recruitment in challenged tissues. Indeed, following injection of both lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and Staphylococcus aureus in the leech body wall, HvRNASET2 is expressed by leech type I granulocytes and induces bacterial aggregation to aid macrophage phagocytosis. Here, we investigate the HvRNASET2 antimicrobial role, in particular assessing the effects on the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli. For this purpose, starting from the three-dimensional molecule reconstruction and in silico analyses, the antibacterial activity was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. The changes induced in treated bacteria, such as agglutination and alteration in wall integrity, were observed by means of light, transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, immunogold, AMPs (antimicrobial peptides) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) binding assays were carried out to evaluate HvRNASET2 interaction with the microbial envelopes and the ensuing ability to affect microbial viability. Finally, in vivo experiments confirmed that HvRNASET2 promotes a more rapid phagocytosis of bacterial aggregates by macrophages, representing a novel molecule for counteracting pathogen infections and developing alternative solutions to improve human health.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Resumen
3D molecular reconstruction and functional characterization of HvRNASET2 from Hirudo medicinalis. Confirms antibacterial activity through bacterial agglutination and phagocytosis enhancement, with macrophage recruitment in challenged tissues.
Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia
Este estudio investigó la función antimicrobiana de la enzima ribonucleasa T2 HvRNASET2 de Hirudo verbana (sanguijuela medicinal), combinando reconstrucción molecular tridimensional, análisis in silico y experimentos in vitro/in vivo frente a Escherichia coli. HvRNASET2, expresada por los granulocitos tipo I de la sanguijuela, promovió la aglutinación bacteriana, alteró la integridad de la pared celular y aceleró la fagocitosis por macrófagos de los agregados bacterianos. Para el dominio de ASH, resulta relevante porque caracteriza un componente del sistema inmunitario innato de la sanguijuela con propiedades antimicrobianas, contribuyendo a la comprensión de la biología de la sanguijuela y de moléculas de potencial interés biomédico. Los autores sugieren que HvRNASET2 podría representar una molécula novedosa para contrarrestar infecciones por patógenos y desarrollar soluciones alternativas que mejoren la salud humana. Advertencia: se trata de trabajo preclínico en modelos invertebrados y animales; no se presenta ninguna aplicación terapéutica en humanos, formulación ni datos clínicos.
Citación
3D Reconstruction of HvRNASET2 Molecule to Understand Its Antibacterial Role.
Baranzini N et al. · International journal of molecular sciences, 2020
Contexto clínico relacionado
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Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: May 27, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: 18 de junio de 2026