With the growth of global protein demand and the development of plant-based foods,pea protein,as a low-allergenic,nutritionally balanced and environmentally friendly plant protein,has shown great potential in replacin...With the growth of global protein demand and the development of plant-based foods,pea protein,as a low-allergenic,nutritionally balanced and environmentally friendly plant protein,has shown great potential in replacing animal protein.Pea protein is mainly composed of globulin and albumin,with a protein content of 20%to 30%,and has a balanced amino acid composition,as well as being rich in minerals and dietary fiber.It also possesses good foaming,gelling,emulsifying and antioxidant functional properties.However,pea protein also has inherent defects that limit its application in the food industry.This article systematically reviews the extraction techniques,functional properties,modification methods and application fields of pea protein,and focuses on evaluating the effects of different extraction and modification strategies on protein yield and functional properties.Research shows that ultrasonic-assisted alkaline extraction can reduce solvent usage by 55%,shorten extraction time by 50%,and increase extraction rate by 12.51%;under optimized conditions,ultrafiltration membrane technology can achieve a protein purity of 91%.In terms of modification,ultrasonic treatment increases foaming capacity by 37.4%,and phenolic cross-linking increases gel strength from 3.0 kPa to 48 kPa.This article provides data support and theoretical reference for the efficient extraction and functional optimization of pea protein,and has promoting significance for its wide application in plant-based foods.展开更多
Lactylation is one of the post-translational modifications of proteins,a process in which lactyl residues bind to the lysine residues of proteins.This modification can alter the structure,stability,and function of pro...Lactylation is one of the post-translational modifications of proteins,a process in which lactyl residues bind to the lysine residues of proteins.This modification can alter the structure,stability,and function of proteins,which in turn regulates cellular metabolism,aging,and the onset of disease.This review classifies proteins with lactylation effects into histones and non-histone proteins and analyzes their functional roles when lactylation occurs.The in-depth exploration of lactylation is still in its infancy,and many aspects of its regulation,functional significance and therapeutic potential need to be further explored.展开更多
In this letter,we comment on the article by Xuan Yuan et al,published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology.Mixed lineage kinase domainlike protein(MLKL)exhibits cell-type-specific functions in ...In this letter,we comment on the article by Xuan Yuan et al,published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology.Mixed lineage kinase domainlike protein(MLKL)exhibits cell-type-specific functions in liver parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells,playing dual roles in the pathogenesis of liver diseases.In hepatocytes,MLKL primarily mediates necroptosis and inhibits autophagy,thereby exacerbating liver injury.Conversely,in non-parenchymal liver cells,MLKL modulates inflammatory responses and promotes fibrotic processes,thereby driving disease progression.Notably,MLKL also demonstrates protective functions under specific conditions.For instance,MLKL can inhibit intracellular bacterial replication,promote endosomal trafficking,and facilitate the generation and release of extracellular vesicles,potentially exerting hepatoprotective effects.Understanding these cell-type-specific mechanisms of MLKL action,including its dual roles in promoting injury and providing protection,is crucial for elucidating the complex pathogenesis of liver diseases and developing targeted therapeutic strategies.展开更多
Background The aim of this study was to determine whether and how Zn proteinate with moderate chelation strength(Zn-Prot M)can alleviate heat stress(HS)-induced intestinal barrier function damage of broilers.A complet...Background The aim of this study was to determine whether and how Zn proteinate with moderate chelation strength(Zn-Prot M)can alleviate heat stress(HS)-induced intestinal barrier function damage of broilers.A completely randomized design was used for comparatively testing the effects of Zn proteinate on HS and non-HS broilers.Under high temperature(HT),a 1(Control,HT-CON)+2(Zn source)×2(added Zn level)factorial arrangement of treatments was used.The 2 added Zn sources were Zn-Prot M and Zn sulfate(ZnS),and the 2 added Zn levels were 30 and 60 mg/kg.Under normal temperature(NT),a CON group(NT-CON)and pair-fed group(NT-PF)were included.Results The results showed that HS significantly reduced mRNA and protein expression levels of claudin-1,occludin,junctional adhesion molecule-A(JAMA),zonula occludens-1(ZO-1)and zinc finger protein A20(A20)in the jejunum,and HS also remarkably increased serum fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran(FITC-D),endotoxin and interleukin(IL)-1βcontents,serum diamine oxidase(DAO)and matrix metalloproteinase(MMP)-2 activities,nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB)p65 mRNA expression level,and protein expression levels of NF-κB p65 and MMP-2 in the jejunum.However,dietary supplementation with Zn,especially organic Zn as Zn-Prot M at 60 mg/kg,significantly decreased serum FITC-D,endotoxin and IL-1βcontents,serum DAO and MMP-2 activities,NF-κB p65 mRNA expression level,and protein expression levels of NF-κB p65 and MMP-2 in the jejunum of HS broilers,and notably promoted mRNA and protein expression levels of claudin-1,ZO-1 and A20.Conclusions Our results suggest that dietary Zn,especially 60 mg Zn/kg as Zn-Prot M,can alleviate HS-induced intestinal barrier function damage by promoting the expression of TJ proteins possibly via induction of A20-mediated suppression of the NF-κB p65/MMP-2 pathway in the jejunum of HS broilers.展开更多
Edible mushroom proteins are the promising ones with the advantages of complete essential amino acid profile and multiple functional activities.To reinforce their applications in functional food development,this study...Edible mushroom proteins are the promising ones with the advantages of complete essential amino acid profile and multiple functional activities.To reinforce their applications in functional food development,this study comprehensively evaluated the physicochemical and functional properties of protein isolates from 5 mushroom species,i.e.,Pleurotus eryngii(PEP),Pleurotus ostreatus(POP),Lentinula edodes(LEP),Flammulina velutipes(FVP)and Hypsizygus marmoreus(HMP).Results showed that PEP,LEP,FVP,POP and HMP exhibited better protein solubility(PS),water holding capacity(WHC),emulsification activity index(EAI),and foaming capacity(FC)than those of soybean protein and pea protein isolates(PPI).PEP(51.95%)and POP(49.15%)had a higher amount ofβ-sheet structure.Principal component analysis and correlation analysis showed that the seven proteins could be divided into 3 clusters,and WHC,EAI and FC were significantly positively correlated with PS andβ-sheet.The least gelation concentration of PEP(16%)and FVP(16%)at p H 6.0 and 7.0 was similar to PPI,and PEP showed better hardness,springiness and rheological properties than other proteins gels.Overall,our study showed that 5 edible mushroom proteins possessed excellent functionalities(except for gelling capacity),which provided novel insights on unexploited sources of mushroom proteins used as protein-based foods in the food industry.展开更多
The genome tagging project(GTP)plays a pivotal role in addressing a critical gap in the understanding of protein functions.Within this framework,we successfully generated a human influenza hemagglutinin-tagged sperm-s...The genome tagging project(GTP)plays a pivotal role in addressing a critical gap in the understanding of protein functions.Within this framework,we successfully generated a human influenza hemagglutinin-tagged sperm-specific protein 411(HA-tagged Ssp411)mouse model.This model is instrumental in probing the expression and function of Ssp411.Our research revealed that Ssp411 is expressed in the round spermatids,elongating spermatids,elongated spermatids,and epididymal spermatozoa.The comprehensive examination of the distribution of Ssp411 in these germ cells offers new perspectives on its involvement in spermiogenesis.Nevertheless,rigorous further inquiry is imperative to elucidate the precise mechanistic underpinnings of these functions.Ssp411 is not detectable in metaphase Ⅱ(MⅡ)oocytes,zygotes,or 2-cell stage embryos,highlighting its intricate role in early embryonic development.These findings not only advance our understanding of the role of Ssp411 in reproductive physiology but also significantly contribute to the overarching goals of the GTP,fostering groundbreaking advancements in the f ields of spermiogenesis and reproductive biology.展开更多
Wheat(Triticum aestivum L.)is a highly valued cereal crop produced and consumed globally,particularly in arid or semi-arid regions(Zhou et al.,2020;Mao et al.,2023).However,its production is increasingly threatened by...Wheat(Triticum aestivum L.)is a highly valued cereal crop produced and consumed globally,particularly in arid or semi-arid regions(Zhou et al.,2020;Mao et al.,2023).However,its production is increasingly threatened by the rising incidence of drought events associated with climate change.Arid regions are especially susceptible to these droughts,which are intensifying in both severity and frequency(Eckardt et al.,2023;Mao et al.,2023;Yang and Qin,2023).As of a 2022 report,more than 92%of wheat-producing regions are estimated to experience one or more drought/heatwave events in each growing season.Furthermore,the duration and frequency of these combined stress events have increased by approximately 28%over the past four decades(He et al.,2022).To address this challenge,wheat breeding programs have allocated substantial and research efforts to developing elite,stress tolerant lines.This initiative is large part by rapid innovation in transgenic and genome editing strategies(Hu and Xiong,2014;Gao et al.,2021.展开更多
The escalating global temperature,with 2024 as the hottest year,emphasizes the critical link between climate change and kidney health.Extreme heat,a conse-quence of global warming,causes multifaceted effects on human ...The escalating global temperature,with 2024 as the hottest year,emphasizes the critical link between climate change and kidney health.Extreme heat,a conse-quence of global warming,causes multifaceted effects on human physiology,including renal function alterations.This review investigates physiological and molecular mechanisms of heat stress-induced kidney injury,including acute kidney injury,chronic kidney disease(CKD),and urinary stone formation.It highlights how heat stress contributes to renal dysfunction via dehydration,electrolyte imbalances,and activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and antidiuretic hormone pathways,particularly in vulnerable populations like outdoor workers,the elderly,and pregnant women.The review also emphasizes the roles of heat shock proteins(HSPs)-HSP27,HSP60,HSP70,and HSP90-in maintaining cellular integrity by preventing protein aggregation and repairing damaged proteins in renal tissues.Dysregulation of these proteins under prolonged heat stress is implicated in CKD progression.This review highlights the urgent need for targeted public health interventions:(1)Hydration;(2)Workplace cooling;(3)Community education;and(4)Developing pharmaco-logical therapies targeting HSPs.A multidisciplinary approach involving nephrology,environmental science,and public health is essential to mitigate the increasing burden of heat-related kidney disease in the era of global climate change.展开更多
The liver is the site of synthesis of the majority of circulating proteins.Besides initial polypeptide synthesis,sophisticated machinery is involved in the further processing of proteins by removing parts of them and/...The liver is the site of synthesis of the majority of circulating proteins.Besides initial polypeptide synthesis,sophisticated machinery is involved in the further processing of proteins by removing parts of them and/or adding functional groups and small molecules tailoring the final molecule to suit its physiological purpose.Posttranslational modifications(PTMs)design a network of molecules with the common protein ancestor but with slightly or considerably varying activity/localization/purpose.PTMs can change under pathological conditions,giving rise to aberrant or overmodified proteins.Undesired changes in the structure of proteins most often accompany undesired changes in their function,such as reduced activity or the appearance of new effects.Proper protein processing is essential for the reactions in living beings and crucial for the overall quality control.Modifications that occur on proteins synthesized in the liver whose PTMs are cirrhosis-related are oxidation,nitration,glycosylation,acetylation,and ubiquitination.Some of them predominantly affect proteins that remain in liver cells,whereas others predominantly occur on proteins that leave the liver or originate from other tissues and perform their function in the circulation.Altered PTMs of certain proteins are potential candidates as biomarkers of liver-related diseases,including cirrhosis.This review will focus on PTMs on proteins whose structural changes in cirrhosis exert or are suspected to exert the most serious functional consequences.展开更多
Computational design of proteins is a relatively new field, where scientists search the enormous sequence space for sequences that can fold into desired structure and perform desired functions. With the computational ...Computational design of proteins is a relatively new field, where scientists search the enormous sequence space for sequences that can fold into desired structure and perform desired functions. With the computational approach, proteins can be designed, for example, as regulators of biological processes, novel enzymes, or as biotherapeutics. These approaches not only provide valuable information for understanding of sequence-structure-function relations in proteins, but also hold promise for applications to protein engineering and biomedical research. In this review, we briefly introduce the rationale for computational protein design, then summarize the recent progress in this field, including de novo protein design, enzyme design, and design of protein-protein interactions. Challenges and future prospects of this field are also discussed.展开更多
To explore the mechanism of sperm dysfunction caused by dibutyl phthalate(DBP),the effects of DBP on intracellular[Ca^(2+)]and[pH],reactive oxygen species(ROS),lipid peroxidation(LPO),mitochondrial permeability transi...To explore the mechanism of sperm dysfunction caused by dibutyl phthalate(DBP),the effects of DBP on intracellular[Ca^(2+)]and[pH],reactive oxygen species(ROS),lipid peroxidation(LPO),mitochondrial permeability transition pore(mPTP)opening,mitochondrial membrane potential(MMP),adenosine triphosphate(ATP)levels,phosphorylation of protein kinase A(PKA)substrate proteins and phosphotyrosine(p-Tyr)proteins,sperm motility,spontaneous acrosome reaction,and tail bending were examined in mouse spermatozoa.At 100μg/mL,DBP significantly increased tail bending and[Ca^(2+)]i.Interestingly,DBP showed biphasic effects on[pH]i.DBP at 10–100μg/mL significantly decreased sperm motility.Similarly,Ca^(2+)ionophore A23187 decreased[pH]_(i)sperm motility,suggesting that DBP-induced excessive[Ca^(2+)]_(i)decreased sperm motility.DBP significantly increased ROS and LPO.DBP at 100μg/mL significantly decreased mPTP closing,MMP,and ATP levels in spermatozoa,as did H2O2,indicative of ROS-mediatedmitochondrial dysfunction caused by DBP.DBP as well as H2O2 increased p-Tyr sperm proteins and phosphorylated PKA substrate sperm proteins.DBP at 1–10μg/mL significantly increased the spontaneous acrosome reaction,suggesting that DBP can activate sperm capacitation.Altogether,DBP showed a biphasic effect on intracellular signaling in spermatozoa.At concentrations relevant to seminal ortho-phthalate levels,DBP activates[pH]i,protein tyrosine kinases and PKA via physiological levels of ROS generation,potentiating sperm capacitation.DBP at high doses excessively raises[Ca^(2+)]_(i)and ROS and disrupts[pH]i,impairing the mitochondrial function,tail structural integrity,and sperm motility.展开更多
Although the complete nucleotide sequence of strawberry vein banding virus(SVBV) has been determined and bioinformatic analysis has revealed that the SVBV genome could encode seven proteins, the precise function of ea...Although the complete nucleotide sequence of strawberry vein banding virus(SVBV) has been determined and bioinformatic analysis has revealed that the SVBV genome could encode seven proteins, the precise function of each protein is unclear. This study provided evidence that the P1 protein of SVBV(SVBV-P1) possesses the following features. Bioinformatic and subcellular localization analyses showed that SVBV-P1 is localized in the cytoplasm and cell walls of epidermal cells in Nicotiana benthamiana, and it forms inclusion bodies associated with microtubules and the endoplasmic reticulum. Dilution experiments demonstrated that SVBV-P1 could move from the original agro-infiltrated cells to adjacent cells in N. benthamiana leaves. Further trans-complementation experiments demonstrated that SVBV-P1 could facilitate the intercellular movement of a movement-deficient potato virus X mutant in N. benthamiana leaves. Finally, yeast twohybrid and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays revealed that SVBV-P1 could interact with the SVBV coat protein, which is a major component of Caulimovirus virions. Results of the electrophoretic mobility shift assay indicated that SVBV-P1 lacks DNA-binding capability. In summary, the results suggest that SVBV-P1 is probably a movement protein of SVBV, providing new insights into the function of movement proteins of the Caulimovirus genus.展开更多
Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins, a group of hydrophilic proteins, have been linked to survival in plants and animals in periods of stress, putatively through safeguarding enzymatic function and prevention o...Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins, a group of hydrophilic proteins, have been linked to survival in plants and animals in periods of stress, putatively through safeguarding enzymatic function and prevention of aggregation in times of dehydration/heat. Yet despite decades of effort, the molecular-level mechanisms defining this protective function remain unknown. In this paper, we summarize and review research discoveries of the classification of the LEA protein groups based on their amino acid sequence similarity and on the presence of distinctive conserved motifs. Moreover, we focus on high correlation between their accumulation and water deficit, reinforcing their functional relevance under abiotic stresses. We also discuss the biochemical properties of LEA proteins arising from their hydrophilic nature and by amino acid composition. Although significant similarities have not been found between the members of the different groups, a unifying and outstanding feature of most of them is their high hydrophilicity and high content of glycine. Therefore, we have highlighted the biotechnological applications of LEA genes, and the effects of over-expressing LEA genes from all LEA groups from different species of origin into different plant hosts. Apart from agronomical purposes, LEA proteins could be useful for other biotechnological applications in relation to their capacity to prevent aggregation of proteins.展开更多
Many eukaryotic genes are members of multi-gene families due to gene duplications, which generate new copies that allow functional divergence. However, the relationship between
Lipoproteins are protein-lipid macromolecular assemblies which are used to transport lipids in circulation and are key targets in cardiovascular disease （CVD）. The highly dynamic lipoprotein molecules are capable of...Lipoproteins are protein-lipid macromolecular assemblies which are used to transport lipids in circulation and are key targets in cardiovascular disease （CVD）. The highly dynamic lipoprotein molecules are capable of adopting an array of conformations that is crucial to lipid transport along the cholesterol transport pathway, among which high-density lipopro- tein （HDL） and low-density lipoprotein （LDL） are major players in plasma cholesterol metabolism. For a more detailed illustration of cholesterol transport process, as well as the development of therapies to prevent CVD, here we review the functional mechanism and structural basis of lipoproteins in cholesterol transport, as well as their structural dynamics in the plasma lipoprotein （HDL and LDL） elevations, in order to obtain better quantitative understandings on structure-function relationship of lipoproteins. Finally, we also provide an approach for further research on the lipoprotein in cholesterol transport.展开更多
There is a strong evidence supporting the hypothesis of synaptic dysfunction as a major contributor to neural circuit and network disruption underlying emotional and mood dysregulation in psychiatric disorders(Simmons...There is a strong evidence supporting the hypothesis of synaptic dysfunction as a major contributor to neural circuit and network disruption underlying emotional and mood dysregulation in psychiatric disorders(Simmons et al.,2024).Diverse sets of distinct molecular signaling pathways converge on the synapse to regulate synaptogenesis,synaptic function,and synaptic plasticity in brain regions and circuits through complex interactions organized by numerous multivalent protein scaffolds,including the family of proteins known as A-kinase anchoring proteins(AKAPs).展开更多
It has been reported that fresh edible rice has more bioactive compounds and its protein is easier to digest and has lower hypoallergenic than mature rice. In this paper, the changes in structure and functional proper...It has been reported that fresh edible rice has more bioactive compounds and its protein is easier to digest and has lower hypoallergenic than mature rice. In this paper, the changes in structure and functional properties of proteins at five different stages, including early milky stage(EMS), middle milky stage(MMS), late milky stage(LMS), waxy ripe stage(WS)and ripening stage(RS), during the seed development were investigated. It was found that with the seed developing, the molecular weight of fresh rice protein gradually become larger while the secondary structure changed from the highest content of disordered structure at MMS to the highest content of ordered structure at RS, which affect the surface hydrophobicity and then the functional properties of proteins, including foaming properties, emulsifying properties and oil holding capacity. Fresh rice protein at MMS has the strongest surface hydrophobicity while fresh edible rice protein at RS has the strongest oil holding capability. The results of our study can provide a theoretical basis for the application of fresh rice protein in the food industry and help to develop new fresh edible rice food.展开更多
AIM： TO investigate the protein profile of human hepatocarcinoma cell line SMMC-7721, to analyze the specific functions of abundant expressed proteins in the processes of hepatocarcinoma genesis, growth and metastasi...AIM： TO investigate the protein profile of human hepatocarcinoma cell line SMMC-7721, to analyze the specific functions of abundant expressed proteins in the processes of hepatocarcinoma genesis, growth and metastasis, to identify the hepatocarcinoma-specific biomarkers for the early prediction in diagnosis, and to explore the new drug targets for liver cancer therapy. METHODS： Total proteins from human hepatocarcinoma cell line SMMC-7721 were separated by two-dimensional electrophoresis （2DE）. The silver-stained gel was analyzed by 2DE software Image Master 2D Elite. Interesting protein spots were identified by peptide mass fingerprinting based on matrix-assisted laser desorption/ ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry （MALDI-TOF-MS） and database searching. RESULTS： We obtained protein profile of human hepatocarcinoma cell line SMMC-7721. Among the twenty-one successfully identified proteins, mitofilin, endoplasmic reticulum protein ERp29, ubiquinol-cytochrome C reductase complex core protein I, peroxisomal enoyl CoA hydratase, peroxiredoxin-4 and probable 3-oxoacid CoA transferase 1 precursor were the six novel proteins identified in human hepatocarcinoma cells or tissues. Specific functions of the identified heat-shock proteins were analyzed in detail, and the results suggested that these proteins might promote tumorigenesis via inhibiting cell death induced by several cancer-related stresses or via inhibiting apoptosis at multiple points in the apoptotic signal pathway. Other identified chaperones and cancer-related proteins were also analyzed.CONCLUSION： Based on the protein profile of SMMC-7721 cells, functional analysis suggests that the identified chaperones and cancer-related proteins have their own pathways to contribute to the tumorigenesis, tumor growth and metastasis of liver cancer. Furthermore, proteomic analysis is indicated to be feasible in the cancer study.展开更多
Cold-inducible RNA-binding protein （CIRP） is an RNA-binding protein that is expressed in normal testes and downregulated after heat stress caused by cryptorchidism, varicocele or environmental temperatures. The purp...Cold-inducible RNA-binding protein （CIRP） is an RNA-binding protein that is expressed in normal testes and downregulated after heat stress caused by cryptorchidism, varicocele or environmental temperatures. The purpose of this study was to investigate the functions of CIRP in the testes. We employed RNAi technique to knock down the expression of CIRP in the testes, and performed haematoxylin and eosin staining to evaluate morphological changes following knockdown. Germ cell apoptosis was examined by terminal deoxynucleotidal transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labelling （TUNEL） assay, and mitogen-activated protein kinase （MAPK） signalling pathways were investigated by Western blotting to determine the possible mechanism of apoptosis. We found that using siRNA is a feasible and reliable method for knocking down gene expression in the testes. Compared to controls, the mean seminiferous tubule diameter （MSTD） and the thickness of the germ cell layers decreased following siRNA treatment, whereas the percentage of apoptotic seminiferous tubules increased. The p44/p42, p38 and SAPK/JNK MAPK pathways were activated after downregulation of CIRP. In conclusion, we discovered that downregulation of CIRP resulted in increased germ cell apoptosis, possibly viathe activation of the p44/p42, p38 and SAPK/JNK MAPK pathways.展开更多
Investigating the biological function of proteins is a key aspect of protein studies. Bioinformatic methods become important for studying the biological function of proteins. In this paper, we first give the chaos gam...Investigating the biological function of proteins is a key aspect of protein studies. Bioinformatic methods become important for studying the biological function of proteins. In this paper, we first give the chaos game representation （CGR） of randomly-linked functional protein sequences, then propose the use of the recurrent iterated function systems （RIFS） in fractal theory to simulate the measure based on their chaos game representations. This method helps to extract some features of functional protein sequences, and furthermore the biological functions of these proteins. Then multifractal analysis of the measures based on the CGRs of randomly-linked functional protein sequences are performed. We find that the CGRs have clear fractal patterns. The numerical results show that the RIFS can simulate the measure based on the CGR very well. The relative standard error and the estimated probability matrix in the RIFS do not depend on the order to link the functional protein sequences. The estimated probability matrices in the RIFS with different biological functions are evidently different. Hence the estimated probability matrices in the RIFS can be used to characterise the difference among linked functional protein sequences with different biological functions. From the values of the Dq curves, one sees that these functional protein sequences are not completely random. The Dq of all linked functional proteins studied are multifractal-like and sufficiently smooth for the Cq （analogous to specific heat） curves to be meaningful. Furthermore, the Dq curves of the measure μ based on their CCRs for different orders to link the functional protein sequences are almost identical if q 〉 0. Finally, the Ca curves of all linked functional proteins resemble a classical phase transition at a critical point.展开更多
文摘With the growth of global protein demand and the development of plant-based foods,pea protein,as a low-allergenic,nutritionally balanced and environmentally friendly plant protein,has shown great potential in replacing animal protein.Pea protein is mainly composed of globulin and albumin,with a protein content of 20%to 30%,and has a balanced amino acid composition,as well as being rich in minerals and dietary fiber.It also possesses good foaming,gelling,emulsifying and antioxidant functional properties.However,pea protein also has inherent defects that limit its application in the food industry.This article systematically reviews the extraction techniques,functional properties,modification methods and application fields of pea protein,and focuses on evaluating the effects of different extraction and modification strategies on protein yield and functional properties.Research shows that ultrasonic-assisted alkaline extraction can reduce solvent usage by 55%,shorten extraction time by 50%,and increase extraction rate by 12.51%;under optimized conditions,ultrafiltration membrane technology can achieve a protein purity of 91%.In terms of modification,ultrasonic treatment increases foaming capacity by 37.4%,and phenolic cross-linking increases gel strength from 3.0 kPa to 48 kPa.This article provides data support and theoretical reference for the efficient extraction and functional optimization of pea protein,and has promoting significance for its wide application in plant-based foods.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province(No.2024A1515010605,2022A1515140034)Discipline Construction Project of Guangdong Medical University(No.4SG24007G,4SG22302P)+1 种基金Medical Scientific Research Fund of Guangdong Province(No.B2024193)Dongguan Social Development and Scientific Technology Project,China(No.20231800936562).
文摘Lactylation is one of the post-translational modifications of proteins,a process in which lactyl residues bind to the lysine residues of proteins.This modification can alter the structure,stability,and function of proteins,which in turn regulates cellular metabolism,aging,and the onset of disease.This review classifies proteins with lactylation effects into histones and non-histone proteins and analyzes their functional roles when lactylation occurs.The in-depth exploration of lactylation is still in its infancy,and many aspects of its regulation,functional significance and therapeutic potential need to be further explored.
基金Supported by the Science and Technology Planning Projects of Guizhou Province,No.QKHJC-ZK[2022]YB642Health Research Project of Guizhou Province,No.gzwkj2024-324,and No.gzwkj2024-103+2 种基金WBE Liver Fibrosis Foundation,No.CFHPC2025028Beijing Liver and Gallbladder Mutual Aid Public Welfare Foundation Artificial Liver Special Fund,No.iGandanF-1082024-Rgg018Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program of Zunyi Medical University,No.S2024106612360.
文摘In this letter,we comment on the article by Xuan Yuan et al,published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology.Mixed lineage kinase domainlike protein(MLKL)exhibits cell-type-specific functions in liver parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells,playing dual roles in the pathogenesis of liver diseases.In hepatocytes,MLKL primarily mediates necroptosis and inhibits autophagy,thereby exacerbating liver injury.Conversely,in non-parenchymal liver cells,MLKL modulates inflammatory responses and promotes fibrotic processes,thereby driving disease progression.Notably,MLKL also demonstrates protective functions under specific conditions.For instance,MLKL can inhibit intracellular bacterial replication,promote endosomal trafficking,and facilitate the generation and release of extracellular vesicles,potentially exerting hepatoprotective effects.Understanding these cell-type-specific mechanisms of MLKL action,including its dual roles in promoting injury and providing protection,is crucial for elucidating the complex pathogenesis of liver diseases and developing targeted therapeutic strategies.
基金Key International Cooperation Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32120103011)Jiangsu Shuang Chuang Tuan Dui program(JSSCTD202147)+1 种基金Jiangsu Shuang Chuang Ren Cai program(JSSCRC2021541)Initiation Funds of Yangzhou University for Distinguished Scientists.
文摘Background The aim of this study was to determine whether and how Zn proteinate with moderate chelation strength(Zn-Prot M)can alleviate heat stress(HS)-induced intestinal barrier function damage of broilers.A completely randomized design was used for comparatively testing the effects of Zn proteinate on HS and non-HS broilers.Under high temperature(HT),a 1(Control,HT-CON)+2(Zn source)×2(added Zn level)factorial arrangement of treatments was used.The 2 added Zn sources were Zn-Prot M and Zn sulfate(ZnS),and the 2 added Zn levels were 30 and 60 mg/kg.Under normal temperature(NT),a CON group(NT-CON)and pair-fed group(NT-PF)were included.Results The results showed that HS significantly reduced mRNA and protein expression levels of claudin-1,occludin,junctional adhesion molecule-A(JAMA),zonula occludens-1(ZO-1)and zinc finger protein A20(A20)in the jejunum,and HS also remarkably increased serum fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran(FITC-D),endotoxin and interleukin(IL)-1βcontents,serum diamine oxidase(DAO)and matrix metalloproteinase(MMP)-2 activities,nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB)p65 mRNA expression level,and protein expression levels of NF-κB p65 and MMP-2 in the jejunum.However,dietary supplementation with Zn,especially organic Zn as Zn-Prot M at 60 mg/kg,significantly decreased serum FITC-D,endotoxin and IL-1βcontents,serum DAO and MMP-2 activities,NF-κB p65 mRNA expression level,and protein expression levels of NF-κB p65 and MMP-2 in the jejunum of HS broilers,and notably promoted mRNA and protein expression levels of claudin-1,ZO-1 and A20.Conclusions Our results suggest that dietary Zn,especially 60 mg Zn/kg as Zn-Prot M,can alleviate HS-induced intestinal barrier function damage by promoting the expression of TJ proteins possibly via induction of A20-mediated suppression of the NF-κB p65/MMP-2 pathway in the jejunum of HS broilers.
基金supported by the special fund of Jiangsu Province for the transformation of scientific and technological achievements(BA2021062)Jiangsu agricultural science and technology independent innovation fund(CX(22)2007)。
文摘Edible mushroom proteins are the promising ones with the advantages of complete essential amino acid profile and multiple functional activities.To reinforce their applications in functional food development,this study comprehensively evaluated the physicochemical and functional properties of protein isolates from 5 mushroom species,i.e.,Pleurotus eryngii(PEP),Pleurotus ostreatus(POP),Lentinula edodes(LEP),Flammulina velutipes(FVP)and Hypsizygus marmoreus(HMP).Results showed that PEP,LEP,FVP,POP and HMP exhibited better protein solubility(PS),water holding capacity(WHC),emulsification activity index(EAI),and foaming capacity(FC)than those of soybean protein and pea protein isolates(PPI).PEP(51.95%)and POP(49.15%)had a higher amount ofβ-sheet structure.Principal component analysis and correlation analysis showed that the seven proteins could be divided into 3 clusters,and WHC,EAI and FC were significantly positively correlated with PS andβ-sheet.The least gelation concentration of PEP(16%)and FVP(16%)at p H 6.0 and 7.0 was similar to PPI,and PEP showed better hardness,springiness and rheological properties than other proteins gels.Overall,our study showed that 5 edible mushroom proteins possessed excellent functionalities(except for gelling capacity),which provided novel insights on unexploited sources of mushroom proteins used as protein-based foods in the food industry.
基金the support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32070849)The Foundation of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality(No.22DX1900400)+1 种基金Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality(No.23JC1403803)Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Commission Targeted Funding Project(No.22DX1900400).
文摘The genome tagging project(GTP)plays a pivotal role in addressing a critical gap in the understanding of protein functions.Within this framework,we successfully generated a human influenza hemagglutinin-tagged sperm-specific protein 411(HA-tagged Ssp411)mouse model.This model is instrumental in probing the expression and function of Ssp411.Our research revealed that Ssp411 is expressed in the round spermatids,elongating spermatids,elongated spermatids,and epididymal spermatozoa.The comprehensive examination of the distribution of Ssp411 in these germ cells offers new perspectives on its involvement in spermiogenesis.Nevertheless,rigorous further inquiry is imperative to elucidate the precise mechanistic underpinnings of these functions.Ssp411 is not detectable in metaphase Ⅱ(MⅡ)oocytes,zygotes,or 2-cell stage embryos,highlighting its intricate role in early embryonic development.These findings not only advance our understanding of the role of Ssp411 in reproductive physiology but also significantly contribute to the overarching goals of the GTP,fostering groundbreaking advancements in the f ields of spermiogenesis and reproductive biology.
基金supported by grants from the Major Project on Agricultural Bio-breeding of China(2023ZD04026)National Natural Science Foundation of China(31872866 and 32372124)+2 种基金China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2022M721101)National Natural Science Foundation of Hunan(2023JJ40132)Natural Science Foundation of Chongqing(CSTB2023NSCQ-MSX0542).
文摘Wheat(Triticum aestivum L.)is a highly valued cereal crop produced and consumed globally,particularly in arid or semi-arid regions(Zhou et al.,2020;Mao et al.,2023).However,its production is increasingly threatened by the rising incidence of drought events associated with climate change.Arid regions are especially susceptible to these droughts,which are intensifying in both severity and frequency(Eckardt et al.,2023;Mao et al.,2023;Yang and Qin,2023).As of a 2022 report,more than 92%of wheat-producing regions are estimated to experience one or more drought/heatwave events in each growing season.Furthermore,the duration and frequency of these combined stress events have increased by approximately 28%over the past four decades(He et al.,2022).To address this challenge,wheat breeding programs have allocated substantial and research efforts to developing elite,stress tolerant lines.This initiative is large part by rapid innovation in transgenic and genome editing strategies(Hu and Xiong,2014;Gao et al.,2021.
文摘The escalating global temperature,with 2024 as the hottest year,emphasizes the critical link between climate change and kidney health.Extreme heat,a conse-quence of global warming,causes multifaceted effects on human physiology,including renal function alterations.This review investigates physiological and molecular mechanisms of heat stress-induced kidney injury,including acute kidney injury,chronic kidney disease(CKD),and urinary stone formation.It highlights how heat stress contributes to renal dysfunction via dehydration,electrolyte imbalances,and activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and antidiuretic hormone pathways,particularly in vulnerable populations like outdoor workers,the elderly,and pregnant women.The review also emphasizes the roles of heat shock proteins(HSPs)-HSP27,HSP60,HSP70,and HSP90-in maintaining cellular integrity by preventing protein aggregation and repairing damaged proteins in renal tissues.Dysregulation of these proteins under prolonged heat stress is implicated in CKD progression.This review highlights the urgent need for targeted public health interventions:(1)Hydration;(2)Workplace cooling;(3)Community education;and(4)Developing pharmaco-logical therapies targeting HSPs.A multidisciplinary approach involving nephrology,environmental science,and public health is essential to mitigate the increasing burden of heat-related kidney disease in the era of global climate change.
基金Supported by the Ministry of Education,Science and Technological Development of the Republic of Serbia,No.451-03-9/2021-14/200019.
文摘The liver is the site of synthesis of the majority of circulating proteins.Besides initial polypeptide synthesis,sophisticated machinery is involved in the further processing of proteins by removing parts of them and/or adding functional groups and small molecules tailoring the final molecule to suit its physiological purpose.Posttranslational modifications(PTMs)design a network of molecules with the common protein ancestor but with slightly or considerably varying activity/localization/purpose.PTMs can change under pathological conditions,giving rise to aberrant or overmodified proteins.Undesired changes in the structure of proteins most often accompany undesired changes in their function,such as reduced activity or the appearance of new effects.Proper protein processing is essential for the reactions in living beings and crucial for the overall quality control.Modifications that occur on proteins synthesized in the liver whose PTMs are cirrhosis-related are oxidation,nitration,glycosylation,acetylation,and ubiquitination.Some of them predominantly affect proteins that remain in liver cells,whereas others predominantly occur on proteins that leave the liver or originate from other tissues and perform their function in the circulation.Altered PTMs of certain proteins are potential candidates as biomarkers of liver-related diseases,including cirrhosis.This review will focus on PTMs on proteins whose structural changes in cirrhosis exert or are suspected to exert the most serious functional consequences.
基金supported by the National Basic Research Program of China(Grant No.2015CB910300)the National High Technology Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2012AA020308)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.11021463)
文摘Computational design of proteins is a relatively new field, where scientists search the enormous sequence space for sequences that can fold into desired structure and perform desired functions. With the computational approach, proteins can be designed, for example, as regulators of biological processes, novel enzymes, or as biotherapeutics. These approaches not only provide valuable information for understanding of sequence-structure-function relations in proteins, but also hold promise for applications to protein engineering and biomedical research. In this review, we briefly introduce the rationale for computational protein design, then summarize the recent progress in this field, including de novo protein design, enzyme design, and design of protein-protein interactions. Challenges and future prospects of this field are also discussed.
基金supported by the National Research Foundation of Republic of Korea(NRF)grant funded by the Republic of Korea government(MSIT)(No.2022R1A2C1007831).
文摘To explore the mechanism of sperm dysfunction caused by dibutyl phthalate(DBP),the effects of DBP on intracellular[Ca^(2+)]and[pH],reactive oxygen species(ROS),lipid peroxidation(LPO),mitochondrial permeability transition pore(mPTP)opening,mitochondrial membrane potential(MMP),adenosine triphosphate(ATP)levels,phosphorylation of protein kinase A(PKA)substrate proteins and phosphotyrosine(p-Tyr)proteins,sperm motility,spontaneous acrosome reaction,and tail bending were examined in mouse spermatozoa.At 100μg/mL,DBP significantly increased tail bending and[Ca^(2+)]i.Interestingly,DBP showed biphasic effects on[pH]i.DBP at 10–100μg/mL significantly decreased sperm motility.Similarly,Ca^(2+)ionophore A23187 decreased[pH]_(i)sperm motility,suggesting that DBP-induced excessive[Ca^(2+)]_(i)decreased sperm motility.DBP significantly increased ROS and LPO.DBP at 100μg/mL significantly decreased mPTP closing,MMP,and ATP levels in spermatozoa,as did H2O2,indicative of ROS-mediatedmitochondrial dysfunction caused by DBP.DBP as well as H2O2 increased p-Tyr sperm proteins and phosphorylated PKA substrate sperm proteins.DBP at 1–10μg/mL significantly increased the spontaneous acrosome reaction,suggesting that DBP can activate sperm capacitation.Altogether,DBP showed a biphasic effect on intracellular signaling in spermatozoa.At concentrations relevant to seminal ortho-phthalate levels,DBP activates[pH]i,protein tyrosine kinases and PKA via physiological levels of ROS generation,potentiating sperm capacitation.DBP at high doses excessively raises[Ca^(2+)]_(i)and ROS and disrupts[pH]i,impairing the mitochondrial function,tail structural integrity,and sperm motility.
基金supported by the grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32072386 and 31801700)the Key Research and Development Project of Anhui Province,China(202004a06020013)the Postdoctoral Science Fund of Anhui Province,China(2019B360)。
文摘Although the complete nucleotide sequence of strawberry vein banding virus(SVBV) has been determined and bioinformatic analysis has revealed that the SVBV genome could encode seven proteins, the precise function of each protein is unclear. This study provided evidence that the P1 protein of SVBV(SVBV-P1) possesses the following features. Bioinformatic and subcellular localization analyses showed that SVBV-P1 is localized in the cytoplasm and cell walls of epidermal cells in Nicotiana benthamiana, and it forms inclusion bodies associated with microtubules and the endoplasmic reticulum. Dilution experiments demonstrated that SVBV-P1 could move from the original agro-infiltrated cells to adjacent cells in N. benthamiana leaves. Further trans-complementation experiments demonstrated that SVBV-P1 could facilitate the intercellular movement of a movement-deficient potato virus X mutant in N. benthamiana leaves. Finally, yeast twohybrid and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays revealed that SVBV-P1 could interact with the SVBV coat protein, which is a major component of Caulimovirus virions. Results of the electrophoretic mobility shift assay indicated that SVBV-P1 lacks DNA-binding capability. In summary, the results suggest that SVBV-P1 is probably a movement protein of SVBV, providing new insights into the function of movement proteins of the Caulimovirus genus.
基金supported jointly by grants from the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research,Tunisia and the Agence Espagnole de cooperation Internationale(AECI)Officina Tecnica de Cooperacion,Spain
文摘Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins, a group of hydrophilic proteins, have been linked to survival in plants and animals in periods of stress, putatively through safeguarding enzymatic function and prevention of aggregation in times of dehydration/heat. Yet despite decades of effort, the molecular-level mechanisms defining this protective function remain unknown. In this paper, we summarize and review research discoveries of the classification of the LEA protein groups based on their amino acid sequence similarity and on the presence of distinctive conserved motifs. Moreover, we focus on high correlation between their accumulation and water deficit, reinforcing their functional relevance under abiotic stresses. We also discuss the biochemical properties of LEA proteins arising from their hydrophilic nature and by amino acid composition. Although significant similarities have not been found between the members of the different groups, a unifying and outstanding feature of most of them is their high hydrophilicity and high content of glycine. Therefore, we have highlighted the biotechnological applications of LEA genes, and the effects of over-expressing LEA genes from all LEA groups from different species of origin into different plant hosts. Apart from agronomical purposes, LEA proteins could be useful for other biotechnological applications in relation to their capacity to prevent aggregation of proteins.
文摘Many eukaryotic genes are members of multi-gene families due to gene duplications, which generate new copies that allow functional divergence. However, the relationship between
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.11504287 and 11774279)
文摘Lipoproteins are protein-lipid macromolecular assemblies which are used to transport lipids in circulation and are key targets in cardiovascular disease （CVD）. The highly dynamic lipoprotein molecules are capable of adopting an array of conformations that is crucial to lipid transport along the cholesterol transport pathway, among which high-density lipopro- tein （HDL） and low-density lipoprotein （LDL） are major players in plasma cholesterol metabolism. For a more detailed illustration of cholesterol transport process, as well as the development of therapies to prevent CVD, here we review the functional mechanism and structural basis of lipoproteins in cholesterol transport, as well as their structural dynamics in the plasma lipoprotein （HDL and LDL） elevations, in order to obtain better quantitative understandings on structure-function relationship of lipoproteins. Finally, we also provide an approach for further research on the lipoprotein in cholesterol transport.
基金supported by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIH/NIMH)the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke(NIH/NINDS):Grants#R21 MH132136 to FSN and R01 MH123700 and R01 NS040701 to MLD
文摘There is a strong evidence supporting the hypothesis of synaptic dysfunction as a major contributor to neural circuit and network disruption underlying emotional and mood dysregulation in psychiatric disorders(Simmons et al.,2024).Diverse sets of distinct molecular signaling pathways converge on the synapse to regulate synaptogenesis,synaptic function,and synaptic plasticity in brain regions and circuits through complex interactions organized by numerous multivalent protein scaffolds,including the family of proteins known as A-kinase anchoring proteins(AKAPs).
基金the financial support from the Postdoctoral Research Project of Heilongjiang Provincial Department of Human Resources and Social Security (LBH-Q21156)Heilongjiang BaYi Agricultural University Support Program for San Zong San Heng (ZDZX202104)+3 种基金Science Foundation Project of Heilongjiang Province (QC2015028)National Natural Science Foundation of China (32072258)Major Science and technology Program of Heilongjiang (2019ZX08B02,2020ZX08B02)Central financial support for the development of local colleges and universities,Graduate research and innovation project of Harbin University of Commerce (YJSCX2020636HSD)。
文摘It has been reported that fresh edible rice has more bioactive compounds and its protein is easier to digest and has lower hypoallergenic than mature rice. In this paper, the changes in structure and functional properties of proteins at five different stages, including early milky stage(EMS), middle milky stage(MMS), late milky stage(LMS), waxy ripe stage(WS)and ripening stage(RS), during the seed development were investigated. It was found that with the seed developing, the molecular weight of fresh rice protein gradually become larger while the secondary structure changed from the highest content of disordered structure at MMS to the highest content of ordered structure at RS, which affect the surface hydrophobicity and then the functional properties of proteins, including foaming properties, emulsifying properties and oil holding capacity. Fresh rice protein at MMS has the strongest surface hydrophobicity while fresh edible rice protein at RS has the strongest oil holding capability. The results of our study can provide a theoretical basis for the application of fresh rice protein in the food industry and help to develop new fresh edible rice food.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, No. 30370403the Key Project of Chinese Ministry of Education, No. 705046the Doctoral Foundation of Xi’an Jiaotong University, grants No. DFXJTU2005-05
文摘AIM： TO investigate the protein profile of human hepatocarcinoma cell line SMMC-7721, to analyze the specific functions of abundant expressed proteins in the processes of hepatocarcinoma genesis, growth and metastasis, to identify the hepatocarcinoma-specific biomarkers for the early prediction in diagnosis, and to explore the new drug targets for liver cancer therapy. METHODS： Total proteins from human hepatocarcinoma cell line SMMC-7721 were separated by two-dimensional electrophoresis （2DE）. The silver-stained gel was analyzed by 2DE software Image Master 2D Elite. Interesting protein spots were identified by peptide mass fingerprinting based on matrix-assisted laser desorption/ ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry （MALDI-TOF-MS） and database searching. RESULTS： We obtained protein profile of human hepatocarcinoma cell line SMMC-7721. Among the twenty-one successfully identified proteins, mitofilin, endoplasmic reticulum protein ERp29, ubiquinol-cytochrome C reductase complex core protein I, peroxisomal enoyl CoA hydratase, peroxiredoxin-4 and probable 3-oxoacid CoA transferase 1 precursor were the six novel proteins identified in human hepatocarcinoma cells or tissues. Specific functions of the identified heat-shock proteins were analyzed in detail, and the results suggested that these proteins might promote tumorigenesis via inhibiting cell death induced by several cancer-related stresses or via inhibiting apoptosis at multiple points in the apoptotic signal pathway. Other identified chaperones and cancer-related proteins were also analyzed.CONCLUSION： Based on the protein profile of SMMC-7721 cells, functional analysis suggests that the identified chaperones and cancer-related proteins have their own pathways to contribute to the tumorigenesis, tumor growth and metastasis of liver cancer. Furthermore, proteomic analysis is indicated to be feasible in the cancer study.
文摘Cold-inducible RNA-binding protein （CIRP） is an RNA-binding protein that is expressed in normal testes and downregulated after heat stress caused by cryptorchidism, varicocele or environmental temperatures. The purpose of this study was to investigate the functions of CIRP in the testes. We employed RNAi technique to knock down the expression of CIRP in the testes, and performed haematoxylin and eosin staining to evaluate morphological changes following knockdown. Germ cell apoptosis was examined by terminal deoxynucleotidal transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labelling （TUNEL） assay, and mitogen-activated protein kinase （MAPK） signalling pathways were investigated by Western blotting to determine the possible mechanism of apoptosis. We found that using siRNA is a feasible and reliable method for knocking down gene expression in the testes. Compared to controls, the mean seminiferous tubule diameter （MSTD） and the thickness of the germ cell layers decreased following siRNA treatment, whereas the percentage of apoptotic seminiferous tubules increased. The p44/p42, p38 and SAPK/JNK MAPK pathways were activated after downregulation of CIRP. In conclusion, we discovered that downregulation of CIRP resulted in increased germ cell apoptosis, possibly viathe activation of the p44/p42, p38 and SAPK/JNK MAPK pathways.
基金Project partially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No.30570426)the Chinese Program for New Century Excellent Talents in University (Grant No.NCET-08-06867)+1 种基金Fok Ying Tung Education Foundation (Grant No.101004)Australian Research Council (Grant No.DP0559807)
文摘Investigating the biological function of proteins is a key aspect of protein studies. Bioinformatic methods become important for studying the biological function of proteins. In this paper, we first give the chaos game representation （CGR） of randomly-linked functional protein sequences, then propose the use of the recurrent iterated function systems （RIFS） in fractal theory to simulate the measure based on their chaos game representations. This method helps to extract some features of functional protein sequences, and furthermore the biological functions of these proteins. Then multifractal analysis of the measures based on the CGRs of randomly-linked functional protein sequences are performed. We find that the CGRs have clear fractal patterns. The numerical results show that the RIFS can simulate the measure based on the CGR very well. The relative standard error and the estimated probability matrix in the RIFS do not depend on the order to link the functional protein sequences. The estimated probability matrices in the RIFS with different biological functions are evidently different. Hence the estimated probability matrices in the RIFS can be used to characterise the difference among linked functional protein sequences with different biological functions. From the values of the Dq curves, one sees that these functional protein sequences are not completely random. The Dq of all linked functional proteins studied are multifractal-like and sufficiently smooth for the Cq （analogous to specific heat） curves to be meaningful. Furthermore, the Dq curves of the measure μ based on their CCRs for different orders to link the functional protein sequences are almost identical if q 〉 0. Finally, the Ca curves of all linked functional proteins resemble a classical phase transition at a critical point.
