Amyloid fibril structures and ferroptosis activation induced by ALS-causing SOD1 mutations

Sci Adv. 2024 Nov;10(44):eado8499. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.ado8499. Epub 2024 Oct 30.

Abstract

Over 200 genetic mutations in copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1) have been linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Among these, two ALS-causing mutants, histidine-46→arginine (H46R) and glycine-85→arginine (G85R), exhibit a decreased capacity to bind metal ions. Here, we report two cryo-electron microscopy structures of amyloid fibrils formed by H46R and G85R. These mutations lead to the formation of amyloid fibrils with unique structures distinct from those of the native fibril. The core of these fibrils features a serpentine arrangement with seven or eight β strands, secured by a hydrophobic cavity and a salt bridge between arginine-85 and aspartic acid-101 in the G85R fibril. We demonstrate that these mutant fibrils are notably more toxic and capable of promoting the aggregation of wild-type SOD1 more effectively, causing mitochondrial impairment and activating ferroptosis in cell cultures, compared to wild-type SOD1 fibrils. Our study provides insights into the structural mechanisms by which SOD1 mutants aggregate and induce cytotoxicity in ALS.

MeSH terms

  • Amyloid* / metabolism
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis* / genetics
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis* / metabolism
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis* / pathology
  • Cryoelectron Microscopy
  • Ferroptosis* / genetics
  • Humans
  • Mitochondria / metabolism
  • Models, Molecular
  • Mutation*
  • Superoxide Dismutase-1* / chemistry
  • Superoxide Dismutase-1* / genetics
  • Superoxide Dismutase-1* / metabolism

Substances

  • Superoxide Dismutase-1
  • Amyloid
  • SOD1 protein, human