ATCUN-like Copper Site in βB2-Crystallin Plays a Protective Role in Cataract-Associated Aggregation.

ABSTRACT: Cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide, and it is caused by crystallin damage and aggregation. Senile cataractous lenses have relatively high levels of metals, while some metal ions can directly induce the aggregation of human γ-crystallins. Here, we evaluated the impact of divalent metal ions in the aggregation of human βB2-crystallin, one of the most abundant crystallins in the lens. Turbidity assays showed that Pb²⁺, Hg²⁺, Cu²⁺, and Zn²⁺ ions induce the aggregation of βB2-crystallin. Metal-induced aggregation is partially reverted by a chelating agent, indicating the formation of metal-bridged species. Our study focused on the mechanism of copper-induced aggregation of βB2-crystallin, finding that it involves metal-bridging, disu

SUBMITTER: Tovar-Ramirez ME 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11156493 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature