Tyrosine-Generated Nanostructures Initiate Amyloid Cross-Seeding in Proteins Leading to a Lethal Aggregation Trap

Abstract

Here, we show that aromatic amino acid tyrosine, under a physiologically mimicking condition, readily forms amyloid-like entities that can effectively drive aggregation of different globular proteins and aromatic residues. Tyrosine self-assembly resulted in the formation of cross-β rich regular fibrils as well as spheroidal oligomers. Computational data suggest intermolecular interaction between specifically oriented tyrosine molecules mediated through π-π stacking and H-bonding interactions, mimicking a cross-β-like architecture. Both individual protein samples and mixed protein samples underwent aggregation in the presence of tyrosine fibrils, confirming the occurrence of amyloid cross-seeding. The surface of the tyrosine's amyloid like entities was predicted to trap native protein structures, preferably through hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions initiating an aggregation event. Because tyrosine is a precursor to vital neuromodulators, the inherent cross-seeding potential of the tyrosine fibrils may have direct relevance to amyloid-linked pathologies.