A prochelator activated by hydrogen peroxide prevents metal-induced amyloid Beta aggregation

The effect of novel antihypertensive drug valsartan on lysozyme aggregation: A combined in situ and in silico study

Protein misfolding can result in amyloid fiber aggregation, which is associated with various types of diseases. Therefore, preventing or treating abnormally folded proteins may provide therapeutic intervention for these diseases. Valsartan (VAL) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that is used to treat hypertension. In this study, we examine the anti-aggregating effect of VAL against hen egg-white lysozyme (HEWL) amyloid fibrils through spectroscopy, docking, and microscopic analysis. In vitro formation of HEWL amyloid fibrils was indicated by increased turbidity, RLS (Rayleigh light scattering), and ThT fluorescence intensity. 10 μM VAL, amyloid/aggregation was inhibited up to 83% and 72% as measured by ThT and RLS respectively. In contrast, 100 μM VAL significantly increases the fibril aggregation of HEWL. CD spectroscopy results show a stabilization of HEWL α-helical structures in the presence of 10 μM VAL while the increase in β-sheet was detected at 100 μM concentration of VAL. The hydrophobicity of HEWL was increased at 100 μM VAL, suggesting the promotion of aggregation via its self-association. Steady-state quenching revealed that VAL and HEWL interact spontaneously via hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images illustrate that the needle-like fibers of HEWL amyloid were reduced at 10 μM VAL, while at 100 μM the fibrils of amyloid were increased. Additionally, our computational studies showed that VAL could bind to two binding sites within HEWL. In the BS-1 domain of HEWL, VAL binds to ASN⁵⁹, ILE⁹⁸, ILE⁵⁸, TRP¹⁰⁸, VAL¹⁰⁹, SER⁵⁰, ASP⁵², ASN⁵⁹, ALA¹⁰⁷, and TRP¹⁰⁸ residues with a binding energy of -9.72 kcal mol^-1. Also, it binds to GLU⁷, ALA¹⁰, ALA¹¹, CYS⁶, ARG¹²⁸, and ARG¹⁴ in the BS-2 domain with a binding energy of -5.89 kcal mol^-1. VAL, therefore, appears to have dual effect against HEWL aggregation. We suggest that VAL stabilizes HEWL's aggregation-prone region (APR) at 10 μM, preventing aggregation. Also, we assume that at 100 μM, VAL occupies BS-2 beside BS-1 and destabilizes the folding structure of HEWL, resulting in aggregation. Further studies are needed to investigate the mechanism of action and determine its potential side effects.

Recent Advances in Hydrogen Peroxide Responsive Organoborons for Biological and Biomedical Applications

Hydrogen peroxide is the most stable reactive oxygen species generated endogenously, participating in numerous physiological processes and abnormal pathological conditions. Mounting evidence suggests that a higher level of H₂ O₂ exists in various disease conditions. Thus, H₂ O₂ functions as an ideal target for site-specific bioimaging and therapeutic targeting. The unique reactivity of organoborons with H₂ O₂ provides a method for developing chemoselective molecules for biological and biomedical applications. This review highlights the design and application of boron-derived molecules for H₂ O₂ detection, and the utility of boron moieties toward masking reactive compounds leading to the development of metal prochelators and prodrugs for selectively delivering an active species at the target sites with elevated H₂ O₂ levels. Additionally, the emergence of H₂ O₂ -responsive theranostic agents consisting of both therapeutic and diagnostic moieties in one integrated system are discussed. The purpose of this review is to provide a better understanding of the role of boron-derived molecules toward biological and pharmacological applications.

Neurodegeneration & imperfect ageing: Technological limitations and challenges?

Cellular homeostasis is regulated by the protein quality control (PQC) machinery, comprising multiple chaperones and enzymes. Studies suggest that the loss of the PQC mechanisms in neurons may lead to the formation of abnormal inclusions that may lead to neurological disorders and defective aging. The questions could be raised how protein aggregate formation precisely engenders multifactorial molecular pathomechanism in neuronal cells and affects different brain regions? Such questions await thorough investigation that may help us understand how aberrant proteinaceous bodies lead to neurodegeneration and imperfect aging. However, these studies face multiple technological challenges in utilizing available tools for detailed characterizations of the protein aggregates or amyloids and developing new techniques to understand the biology and pathology of proteopathies. The lack of detection and analysis methods has decelerated the pace of the research in amyloid biology. Here, we address the significance of aggregation and inclusion formation, followed by exploring the evolutionary contribution of these structures. We also provide a detailed overview of current state-of-the-art techniques and advances in studying amyloids in the diseased brain. A comprehensive understanding of the structural, pathological, and clinical characteristics of different types of aggregates (inclusions, fibrils, plaques, etc.) will aid in developing future therapies.

Redox-Active Metal Ions and Amyloid-Degrading Enzymes in Alzheimer's Disease

Redox-active metal ions, Cu(I/II) and Fe(II/III), are essential biological molecules for the normal functioning of the brain, including oxidative metabolism, synaptic plasticity, myelination, and generation of neurotransmitters. Dyshomeostasis of these redox-active metal ions in the brain could cause Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Thus, regulating the levels of Cu(I/II) and Fe(II/III) is necessary for normal brain function. To control the amounts of metal ions in the brain and understand the involvement of Cu(I/II) and Fe(II/III) in the pathogenesis of AD, many chemical agents have been developed. In addition, since toxic aggregates of amyloid-β (Aβ) have been proposed as one of the major causes of the disease, the mechanism of clearing Aβ is also required to be investigated to reveal the etiology of AD clearly. Multiple metalloenzymes (e.g., neprilysin, insulin-degrading enzyme, and ADAM10) have been reported to have an important role in the degradation of Aβ in the brain. These amyloid degrading enzymes (ADE) could interact with redox-active metal ions and affect the pathogenesis of AD. In this review, we introduce and summarize the roles, distributions, and transportations of Cu(I/II) and Fe(II/III), along with previously invented chelators, and the structures and functions of ADE in the brain, as well as their interrelationships.

Mitochondria and lysosome-targetable fluorescent probes for hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), as a key member of the reactive oxygen species (ROS), has a certain regulatory effect on many physiological processes, such as cell proliferation, differentiation and migration. However, abnormal production of H₂O₂ can cause diseases including cancer, Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular disease, and so on. Therefore, it is important to detect changes in H₂O₂ at the subcellular level. In recent years, many fluorescent probes for H₂O₂ have been developed and used in living cells. In this review, we introduce some typical fluorescent probes for H₂O₂ with mitochondrial and lysosomal targeting. This review contains targeting strategies, detection mechanisms, optical characteristics and cell imaging of these probes.

Copper Toxicity Links to Pathogenesis of Alzheimer's Disease and Therapeutics Approaches

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an irreversible, age-related progressive neurological disorder, and the most common type of dementia in aged people. Neuropathological lesions of AD are neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), and senile plaques comprise the accumulated amyloid-beta (Aβ), loaded with metal ions including Cu, Fe, or Zn. Some reports have identified metal dyshomeostasis as a neurotoxic factor of AD, among which Cu ions seem to be a central cationic metal in the formation of plaque and soluble oligomers, and have an essential role in the AD pathology. Cu-Aβ complex catalyzes the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and results in oxidative damage. Several studies have indicated that oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of AD. The connection of copper levels in AD is still ambiguous, as some researches indicate a Cu deficiency, while others show its higher content in AD, and therefore there is a need to increase and decrease its levels in animal models, respectively, to study which one is the cause. For more than twenty years, many in vitro studies have been devoted to identifying metals' roles in Aβ accumulation, oxidative damage, and neurotoxicity. Towards the end, a short review of the modern therapeutic approach in chelation therapy, with the main focus on Cu ions, is discussed. Despite the lack of strong proofs of clinical advantage so far, the conjecture that using a therapeutic metal chelator is an effective strategy for AD remains popular. However, some recent reports of genetic-regulating copper transporters in AD models have shed light on treating this refractory disease. This review aims to succinctly present a better understanding of Cu ions' current status in several AD features, and some conflicting reports are present herein.

Activity-Based Sensing: A Synthetic Methods Approach for Selective Molecular Imaging and Beyond

Emerging from the origins of supramolecular chemistry and the development of selective chemical receptors that rely on lock-and-key binding, activity-based sensing (ABS)-which utilizes molecular reactivity rather than molecular recognition for analyte detection-has rapidly grown into a distinct field to investigate the production and regulation of chemical species that mediate biological signaling and stress pathways, particularly metal ions and small molecules. Chemical reactions exploit the diverse chemical reactivity of biological species to enable the development of selective and sensitive synthetic methods to decipher their contributions within complex living environments. The broad utility of this reaction-driven approach facilitates application to imaging platforms ranging from fluorescence, luminescence, photoacoustic, magnetic resonance, and positron emission tomography modalities. ABS methods are also being expanded to other fields, such as drug and materials discovery.

Prodrug strategies for targeted therapy triggered by reactive oxygen species

Increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been associated with numerous pathophysiological conditions including cancer and inflammation and the ROS stimulus constitutes a potential trigger for drug delivery strategies. Over the past decade, a number of ROS-sensitive functionalities have been identified with the purpose of introducing disease-targeting properties into small molecule drugs - a prodrug strategy that offers a promising approach for increasing the selectivity and efficacy of treatments. This review will provide an overview of the ROS-responsive prodrugs developed to date. A discussion on the current progress and limitations is provided along with a reflection on the unanswered questions that need to be addressed in order to advance this novel approach to the clinic.

2-Deoxyglycosylation towards more effective and bioavailable neuroprotective molecules inspired by nature

The neuroprotective role of natural polyphenols is well established but phenolics poor water solubility affects their bioavailability and bioactivity. Aiming to overcome this issue, we were encouraged to investigate the 2-deoxyglycosylation of natural or nature inspired neuroprotective molecules, using glycals as easily accessed glycosyl donors. This robust methodology allowed the generation of a set of new resveratrol and caffeic acid ester glycosides, envisioning more effective and bioavailable compounds. Resveratrol 2-deoxyglycosides were more effective at protecting the neuronal cells from peroxide-induced cytotoxicity than resveratrol itself, while the caffeic acid ester glycoside also showed extraordinary neuroprotection activity. Coefficient partition measurements demonstrated the moderate lipophilicity of resveratrol glycosides, which Log D values are typical of a central nervous system (CNS) drug and ideal for blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration. Passive permeation assessed by the parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA) revealed that 2,6-dideoxy-l-arabino-hexopyranosides were more effective than 2-deoxy-d-arabino-hexopyranosides. The lack of toxicity of the neuroprotective glycosides and their promising physicochemical properties revealed the usefulness of sugar coupling towards the modulation of natural product properties and bioactivity.

Design, synthesis and evaluation of a novel metal chelator as multifunctional agents for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

A series of compounds following the lead compounds including deferasirox and tacrine were designed, synthesized and evaluated as multifunctional agents against Alzheimer's disease (AD). In vitro studies showed that most synthesized compounds exhibited good multifunctional activities in inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (bAChE), and chelating metal ions. Especially, compound TD_e demonstrated significant metal chelating property, a moderate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity and an antioxidant activity. Results from the molecular modeling indicated that TD compounds were mixed-type inhibitor, binding simultaneously to the catalytic anionic site (CAS) and the peripheral anionic site (PAS) of TcAChE. Moreover, TD_e showed a low cytotoxicity but a good protective activity against the injury caused by H₂O₂. These results suggest that TD compounds might be considered as attractive multi-target cholinesterase inhibitor and will play important roles in the treatment of AD.

Cu and Zn interactions with Aβ peptides: consequence of coordination on aggregation and formation of neurotoxic soluble Aβ oligomers

The coordination chemistry of transition metal ions (Fe, Cu, Zn) with the amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides has attracted a lot of attention in recent years due to its repercussions in Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Modifying aroylhydrazone prochelators for hydrolytic stability and improved cytoprotection against oxidative stress

BSIH ((E)-N'-(2-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzylidene)isonicotinohydrazide) is a prodrug version of the metal chelator SIH ((E)-N'-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)isonicotinohydrazide) in which a boronate group prevents metal chelation until reaction with hydrogen peroxide releases SIH, which is then available for sequestering iron(III) and inhibiting iron-catalyzed oxidative damage. While BSIH has shown promise for conditionally targeting iron sequestration in cells under oxidative stress, the yield of SIH is limited by the fact that BSIH exists in cell culture media as an equilibrium mixture with its hydrolysis products isoniazid and 2-formylphenyl boronic acid. In the current study, several BSIH analogs were evaluated for their hydrolytic stability, reaction outcomes with H₂O₂, and prochelator-to-chelator conversion efficiency. Notably, the para-methoxy derivative (p-OMe)BSIH ((E)-N'-(5-methoxy-2-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzylidene)isonicotinohydrazide) and the meta-, para-double substituted (MD)BSIH ((E)-N'-((6-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)methylene)isonicotinohydrazide) showed 1.3- and 1.9-fold improved hydrolytic stability compared to BSIH, respectively, leading to a 22 and 50% increase in chelator released. Moreover, both prochelators were found to protect retinal pigment epithelial cells stressed with either H₂O₂ or paraquat insult.

Acetylcholinesterase and Aβ Aggregation Inhibition by Heterometallic Ruthenium(II)-Platinum(II) Polypyridyl Complexes

Two heteronuclear ruthenium(II)-platinum(II) complexes [Ru(bpy)₂(BPIMBp)PtCl₂]²⁺ (3) and [Ru(phen)₂(BPIMBp)PtCl₂]²⁺ (4), where bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, phen = 1,10-phenanthroline, and BPIMBp = 1,4'-bis[(2-pyridin-2-yl)-1H-imidazol-1-ylmethyl]-1,1'-biphenyl, have been designed and synthesized from their mononuclear precursors [Ru(bpy)₂(BPIMBp)]²⁺ (1) and [Ru(phen)₂(BPIMBp)]²⁺ (2) as multitarget molecules for Alzheimer's disease (AD). The inclusion of the cis-PtCl₂ moiety facilitates the covalent interaction of Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes with amyloid β (Aβ) peptide. These multifunctional complexes act as inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Aβ aggregation, and Cu-induced oxidative stress and protect neuronal cells against Aβ-toxicity. The study highlights the design of metal based anti-Alzheimer's disease (AD) systems.

Tuning Structures and Properties for Developing Novel Chemical Tools toward Distinct Pathogenic Elements in Alzheimer's Disease

Multiple pathogenic factors [e.g., amyloid-β (Aβ), metal ions, metal-bound Aβ (metal-Aβ), reactive oxygen species (ROS)] are found in the brain of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). In order to elucidate the roles of pathological elements in AD, chemical tools able to regulate their activities would be valuable. Due to the complicated link among multiple pathological factors, however, it has been challenging to invent such chemical tools. Herein, we report novel small molecules as chemical tools toward modulation of single or multiple target(s), designed via a rational structure-property-directed strategy. The chemical properties (e.g., oxidation potentials) of our molecules and their coverage of reactivities toward the pathological targets were successfully differentiated through a minor structural variation [i.e., replacement of one nitrogen (N) or sulfur (S) donor atom in the framework]. Among our compounds (1-3), 1 with the lowest oxidation potential is able to noticeably modify the aggregation of both metal-free Aβ and metal-Aβ, as well as scavenge free radicals. Compound 2 with the moderate oxidation potential significantly alters the aggregation of Cu(II)-Aβ₄₂. The hardly oxidizable compound, 3, relative to 1 and 2, indicates no noticeable interactions with all pathogenic factors, including metal-free Aβ, metal-Aβ, and free radicals. Overall, our studies demonstrate that the design of small molecules as chemical tools able to control distinct pathological components could be achieved via fine-tuning of structures and properties.

Iminodiacetic Acid-Modified Human Serum Albumin: A Multifunctional Agent against Metal-Associated Amyloid β-Protein Aggregation and Cytotoxicity

Metal-induced amyloid β-protein (Aβ) aggregation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Although several agents have been recognized to block metal-associated Aβ aggregation, their therapeutic potential is marred due to the high-concentration metal ions in the amyloid plaques. To overcome this problem, we have herein developed iminodiacetic acid-modified human serum albumin (I-HSA) to fight against the aggregation. The multifunctional nature of I-HSA was extensively characterized in inhibiting the Aβ₄₂ aggregation associated with Zn²⁺ and Cu²⁺. The results revealed the following: (1) I-HSA significantly inhibited Aβ₄₂ aggregation and alleviated its cytotoxicity. (2) I-HSA possessed a metal-chelate capacity as high as 31.2 mol/mol, and 25 μM I-HSA could effectively inhibit the influence of 250 μM Zn²⁺ on Aβ₄₂ aggregation. (3) Equimolar I-HSA remarkably attenuated the reactive oxygen species damage caused by the Aβ₄₂ and Cu²⁺-Aβ₄₂ species. (4) I-HSA could remodel metal-Aβ₄₂ fibrils into unstructured aggregates with less neurotoxicity. The cytotoxicity of mature Cu²⁺-Aβ₄₂ aggregates was mitigated from 64.8% to 25.4% under the functioning of I-HSA. In conclusion, I-HSA showed prominent advantages for the high metal-chelate capacity. To our knowledge, I-HSA is the first multifunctional macromolecule for inhibiting high-concentration metal-induced Aβ₄₂ aggregation and remodeling mature metal-induced Aβ₄₂ species.

Mutual interference of Cu and Zn ions in Alzheimer's disease: perspectives at the molecular level

While metal ions such as copper and zinc are essential in biology, they are also linked to several amyloid-related diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Zinc and copper can indeed modify the aggregation pathways of the amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide, the key component encountered in AD. In addition, the redox active copper ions do produce Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) when bound to the Aβ peptide. While Cu(i) or Cu(ii) or Zn(ii) coordination to the Aβ has been extensively studied in the last ten years, characterization of hetero-bimetallic Aβ complexes is still scarce. This is also true for the metal induced Aβ aggregation and ROS production, for which studies on the mutual influence of the copper and zinc ions are currently appearing. Last but not least, zinc can strongly interfere in therapeutic approaches relying on copper detoxification. This will be exemplified with a biological lead, namely metallothioneins, and with synthetic ligands.

Stimulus-Responsive Prochelators for Manipulating Cellular Metals

Metal ions are essential for a wide range of physiological processes, but they can also be toxic if not appropriately regulated by a complex network of metal trafficking proteins. Intervention in cellular metal distribution with small-molecule or peptide chelating agents has promising therapeutic potential to harness metals to fight disease. Molecular outcomes associated with forming metal-chelate interactions in situ include altering the concentration and subcellular metal distribution, inhibiting metalloenzymes, enhancing the reactivity of a metal species to elicit a favorable biological response, or passivating the reactivity of a metal species to prevent deleterious reactivity. The systemic administration of metal chelating agents, however, raises safety concerns due to the potential risks of indiscriminate extraction of metals from critical metalloproteins and inhibition of metalloenzymes. One can estimate that chelators capable of complexing metal ions with dissociation constants in the submicromolar range are thermodynamically capable of extracting metal ions from some metalloproteins and disrupting regular function. Such dissociation constants are easily attainable for multidentate chelators interacting with first-row d-block metal cations in relevant +1, + 2, and +3 oxidation states. To overcome this challenge of indiscriminate metal chelation, we have pursued a prodrug strategy for chelating agents in which the resulting "prochelator" has negligible metal binding affinity until a specific stimulus generates a favorable metal binding site. The prochelator strategy enables conditional metal chelation to occur preferentially in locations affected by disease- or therapy-associated stimuli, thereby minimizing off-target metal chelation. Our design of responsive prochelators encompasses three general approaches of activation: the "removal" approach operates by eliminating a masking group that blocks a potential metal chelation site to reveal the complete binding site under the desired conditions; the molecular "switch" approach involves a reversible conformational change between inactive and active forms of a chelator with differential metal binding affinity under specific conditions; and the "addition" approach adds a new ligand donor arm to the prochelator to constitute a complete metal chelation site. Adopting these approaches, we have created four categories of triggerable prochelators that respond to (1) reactive oxygen species, (2) light, (3) specific enzymes, and (4) biological regulatory events. This Account highlights progress from our group on building prochelators that showcase these four categories of responsive metal chelating agents for manipulating cellular metals. The creation and chemical understanding of such stimulus-responsive prochelators enables exciting applications for understanding the cell biology of metals and for developing therapies based on metal-dependent processes in a variety of diseases.

Natural Tripeptide-Based Inhibitor of Multifaceted Amyloid β Toxicity

Accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide and its aggregates in the human brain is considered as one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The polymorphic oligomers and fully grown fibrillar aggregates of Aβ exhibit different levels of neuronal toxicity. Moreover, aggregation of Aβ in the presence of redox-active metal ions like Cu(2+) is responsible for the additional trait of cellular toxicity induced by the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Herein, a multifunctional peptidomimetic inhibitor (P6) has been presented, based on a naturally occurring metal chelating tripeptide (GHK) and the inhibitor of Aβ aggregation. It was shown by employing various biophysical studies that P6 interact with Aβ and prevent the formation of toxic Aβ forms like oligomeric species and fibrillar aggregates. Further, P6 successfully sequestered Cu(2+) from the Aβ-Cu(2+) complex and maintained it in a redox-dormant state to prevent the generation of ROS. P6 inhibited membrane disruption by Aβ oligomers and efficiently prevented DNA damage caused by the Aβ-Cu(2+) complex. PC12 cells were rescued from multifaceted Aβ toxicity when treated with P6, and the amount of ROS generated in cells was reduced. These attributes make P6 a potential therapeutic candidate to ameliorate the multifaceted Aβ toxicity in AD.

Novel double prodrugs of the iron chelator N,N'-bis(2-hydroxybenzyl)ethylenediamine-N,N'-diacetic acid (HBED): Synthesis, characterization, and investigation of activation by chemical hydrolysis and oxidation

The development of iron chelators suitable for the chronic treatment of diseases where iron accumulation and subsequent oxidative stress are implicated in disease pathogenesis is an active area of research. The clinical use of the strong chelator N,N'-bis(2-hydroxybenzyl)ethylenediamine-N,N'-diacetic acid (HBED) and its alkyl ester prodrugs has been hindered by poor oral bioavailability and lack of conversion to the parent chelator, respectively. Here, we present novel double prodrugs of HBED that have the carboxylate and phenolate donors of HBED masked with carboxylate esters and boronic acids/esters, respectively. These double prodrugs were successfully synthesized as free bases (7a-f) or as dimesylate salts (8a-c,e), and were characterized by (1)H, (13)C, and (11)B NMR; MP; MS; and elemental analysis. The crystal structure of 8a was solved. Three of the double prodrugs (8a-c) were selected for further investigation into their abilities to convert to HBED by stepwise hydrolysis and H2O2 oxidation. The serial hydrolysis of the pinacol and methyl esters of N,N'-bis(2-boronic acid pinacol ester benzyl)ethylenediamine-N,N'-diacetic acid methyl ester dimesylate (8a) was verified by LC-MS. The macro half-lives for the hydrolyses of 8a-c, measured by UV, ranged from 3.8 to 26.3 h at 37 °C in pH 7.5 phosphate buffer containing 50% MeOH. 9, the product of hydrolysis of 8a-c and the intermediate in the conversion pathway, showed little-to-no affinity for iron or copper in UV competition experiments. 9 underwent a serial oxidative deboronation by H2O2 in N-methylmorpholine buffer to generate HBED (k = 10.3 M(-1) min(-1)). The requirement of this second step, oxidation, before conversion to the active chelator is complete may confer site specificity when only localized iron chelation is needed. Overall, these results provide proof of principle for the activation of the double prodrugs by chemical hydrolysis and H2O2 oxidation, and merit further investigation into the protective capabilities of the prodrugs against H2O2-induced cell death.

Physical, Chemical, and Biological Structures based on ROS-Sensitive Moieties that are Able to Respond to Oxidative Microenvironments

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) (H2 O2 , OCl(-) , (•) OH, O2 (-) ) are a family of reactive molecules that are generated intracellularly and are engaged in many biological processes. In physiological concentrations, ROS act as signaling molecules to a number of metabolic pathways; however, in excess they can be harmful to living organisms. Overproduction of ROS has been related to many pathophysiological conditions and a number of studies have been reported in elucidating their mechanism in these conditions. With the aim of harnessing this role, a number of imaging tools and therapeutic compounds have been developed. Here these imaging and therapeutic tools are reviewed and particularly those structures with ROS-sensitivity based on their biomedical applications and their functional groups. There is also a brief discussion about the method of preparation as well as the mechanism of action.

Prochelator strategies for site-selective activation of metal chelators

Metal dyshomeostasis has been involved in the etiology of a host of pathologies such as Wilson's, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, transfusion-related iron overload diseases and cancer. Although metal chelating agents represent a necessary therapeutic strategy in metal overload diseases, long-term use of strong chelators that are not selective, can be anticipated perturbing normal physiological functions of essential metal-requiring biomolecules. In this context, the last decade has seen a growing interest in the development of molecules, referred to as "prochelators", that have little affinity for metal ions until they are activated in response to specific stimuli. Here, we present the main strategies applied to develop safe prochelators and focus on chosen examples to provide an overview of this field to date.

Multifunctional self-assembled polymeric nanoprobes for FRET-based ratiometric detection of mitochondrial H2O2 in living cells

A ratiometric, multifunctional nanoprobe was prepared consisting of a self-assembled polymeric micelle as the carrier, tetraphenylethene (TPE) as the donor, fluorescent boronate as the H2O2-responsive acceptor, and triphenylphosphonium as a mitochondria-targeted moiety. The assembled nanoparticles could detect both exogenous and endogenous mitochondrial H2O2 changes in living cells.

Unusual Cyclodextrin Derivatives as a New Avenue to Modulate Self- and Metal-Induced Aβ Aggregation

Mounting evidence suggests an important role of cyclodextrins in providing protection in neurodegenerative disorders. Metal dyshomeostasis is reported to be a pathogenic factor in neurodegeneration because it could be responsible for damage involving oxidative stress and protein aggregation. As such, metal ions represent an effective target. To improve the metal-binding ability of cyclodextrin, we synthesized three new 8-hydroxyquinoline-cyclodextrin conjugates with difunctionalized cyclodextrins. In particular, the 3-difunctionalized regioisomer represents the first example of cyclodextrin with two pendants at the secondary rim, resulting in a promising compound. The derivatives have significant antioxidant capacity and the powerful activity in inhibiting self-induced amyloid-β aggregation seems to be led by synergistic effects of both cyclodextrin and hydroxyquinoline. Moreover, the derivatives are also able to complex metal ions and to inhibit metal-induced protein aggregation. Therefore, these compounds could have potential as therapeutic agents in diseases related to protein aggregation and metal dyshomeostasis.

Thiosemicarbazone modification of 3-acetyl coumarin inhibits Aβ peptide aggregation and protect against Aβ-induced cytotoxicity

Aggregation of amyloid β peptide (Aβ) is an important event in the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, among the available therapeutic approaches to fight with disease, inhibition of Aβ aggregation is widely studied and one of the promising approach for the development of treatments for Alzheimer's disease. Thiosemicarbazone compounds are known for their variety of biological activities. However, the potential of thiosemicarbazone compounds towards inhibition of Aβ peptide aggregation and the subsequent toxicity is little explored. Herein, we report synthesis and x-ray crystal structure of novel compound 3-acetyl coumarin thiosemicarbazone and its efficacy toward inhibition of Aβ(1-42) peptide aggregation. Our results indicate that 3-acetyl coumarin thiosemicarbazone inhibits Aβ(1-42) peptide aggregation up to 80% compared to the parent 3-acetyl coumarin which inhibits 52%. Further, 3-acetyl coumarin thiosemicarbazone provides neuroprotection against Aβ-induced cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cell line. These findings indicate that thiosemicarbazone modification renders 3-acetyl coumarin neuroprotective properties.

Pharmacological activity of metal binding agents that alter copper bioavailability

Iron, copper and zinc are required nutrients for many organisms but also potent toxins if misappropriated. An overload of any of these metals can be cytotoxic and ultimately lead to organ failure, whereas deficiencies can result in anemia, weakened immune system function, and other medical conditions. Cellular metal imbalances have been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases, cancer and infection. It is therefore critical for living organisms to maintain careful control of both the total levels and subcellular distributions of these metals to maintain healthy function. This perspective explores several strategies envisioned to alter the bioavailability of metal ions by using synthetic metal-binding agents targeted for diseases where misappropriated metal ions are suspected of exacerbating cellular damage. Specifically, we discuss chemical properties that influence the pharmacological outcome of a subset of metal-binding agents known as ionophores, and review several examples that have shown multiple pharmacological activities in metal-related diseases, with a specific focus on copper.

Copper as a magic bullet for targeted microbial killing

The innate toxicity of copper can be exploited as an antimicrobial. In this issue of Chemistry & Biology Festa and colleagues report the use of QBP, a prochelator form of the metal-chelate 8-hydroxyquinolone, which allows for targeted copper-dependent microbial killing at sites of infection.

A prochelator with a modular masking group featuring hydrogen peroxide activation with concurrent fluorescent reporting

Metal chelators masked with protecting groups for targeted release have the potential to conditionally modulate cellular metals. We report a new route to prepare cis-cinnamate protecting groups that enabled development of a prochelator with chemical stimulus response, fluorescent reporting and active compound release in a single structure.

Effects of resveratrol on hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in embryonic neural stem cells

Resveratrol, a natural phenolic compound, has been shown to prevent cardiovascular diseases and cancer and exhibit neuroprotective effects. In this study, we examined the neuroprotective and antioxidant effects of resveratrol against hydrogen peroxide in embryonic neural stem cells. Hydrogen peroxide treatment alone increased catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities but did not change superoxide dismutase levels compared with hydrogen peroxide + resveratrol treatment. Nitric oxide synthase activity and concomitant nitric oxide levels increased in response to hydrogen peroxide treatment. Conversely, resveratrol treatment decreased nitric oxide synthase activity and nitric oxide levels. Resveratrol also attenuated hydrogen peroxide-induced nuclear or mitochondrial DNA damage. We propose that resveratrol may be a promising agent for protecting embryonic neural stem cells because of its potential to decrease oxidative stress by inducing higher activity of antioxidant enzymes, decreasing nitric oxide production and nitric oxide synthase activity, and alleviating both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA damage.

Intracellular reduction/activation of a disulfide switch in thiosemicarbazone iron chelators

Iron scavengers (chelators) offer therapeutic opportunities in anticancer drug design by targeting the increased demand for iron in cancer cells as compared to normal cells. Prochelation approaches are expected to avoid systemic iron depletion as chelators are liberated under specific intracellular conditions. In the strategy described herein, a disulfide linkage is employed as a redox-directed switch within the binding unit of an antiproliferative thiosemicarbazone prochelator, which is activated for iron coordination following reduction to the thiolate chelator. In glutathione redox buffer, this reduction event occurs at physiological concentrations and half-cell potentials. Consistent with concurrent reduction and activation, higher intracellular thiol concentrations increase cell susceptibility to prochelator toxicity in cultured cancer cells. The reduction of the disulfide switch and intracellular iron chelation are confirmed in cell-based assays using calcein as a fluorescent probe for paramagnetic ions. The resulting low-spin Fe(III) complex is identified in intact Jurkat cells by EPR spectroscopy measurements, which also document a decreased concentration of active ribonucleotide reductase following exposure to the prochelator. Cell viability and fluorescence-based assays show that the iron complex presents low cytotoxicity and does not participate in intracellular redox chemistry, indicating that this antiproliferative chelation strategy does not rely on the generation of reactive oxygen species.

Exploiting innate immune cell activation of a copper-dependent antimicrobial agent during infection

Recalcitrant microbial infections demand new therapeutic options. Here we present an approach that exploits two prongs of the host immune cell antimicrobial response: the oxidative burst and the compartmentalization of copper (Cu) within phagolysosomes. The prochelator QBP is a nontoxic protected form of 8-hydroxyquinoline (8HQ) in which a pinanediol boronic ester blocks metal ion coordination by 8HQ. QBP is deprotected via reactive oxygen species produced by activated macrophages, creating 8HQ and eliciting Cu-dependent killing of the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans in vitro and in mouse pulmonary infection. 8HQ ionophoric activity increases intracellular Cu, overwhelming the Cu-resistance mechanisms of C. neoformans to elicit fungal killing. The Cu-dependent antimicrobial activity of 8HQ against a spectrum of microbial pathogens suggests that this strategy may have broad utility. The conditional activation of Cu ionophores by innate immune cells intensifies the hostile antimicrobial environment and represents a promising approach to combat infectious disease.

Disaggregation ability of different chelating molecules on copper ion-triggered amyloid fibers

Dysfunctional interaction of amyloid-β (Aβ) with excess metal ions is proved to be related to the etiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Using metal-binding compounds to reverse metal-triggered Aβ aggregation has become one of the potential therapies for AD. In this study, the ability of a carboxylic acid gemini surfactant (SDUC), a widely used metal chelator (EDTA), and an antifungal drug clioquinol (CQ) in reversing the Cu(2+)-triggered Aβ(1-40) fibers have been systematically studied by using turbidity essay, BCA essay, atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and isothermal titration microcalorimetry. The results show that the binding affinity of Cu(2+) with CQ, SDUC, and EDTA is in the order of CQ > EDTA > SDUC, while the disaggregation ability to Cu(2+)-triggered Aβ(1-40) fibers is in the order of CQ > SDUC > EDTA. Therefore, the disaggregation ability of chelators to the Aβ(1-40) fibers does not only depend on the binding affinity of the chelators with Cu(2+). Strong self-assembly ability of SDUC and π-π interaction of the conjugate group of CQ also contributes toward the disaggregation of the Cu(2+)-triggered Aβ(1-40) fibers and result in the formation of mixed small aggregates.

Diagnostic imaging agents for Alzheimer's disease: copper radiopharmaceuticals that target Aβ plaques

One of the pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease is the presence of amyloid-β plaques in the brain and the major constituent of these plaques is aggregated amyloid-β peptide. New thiosemicarbazone-pyridylhydrazine based ligands that incorporate functional groups designed to bind amyloid-β plaques have been synthesized. The new ligands form stable four coordinate complexes with a positron-emitting radioactive isotope of copper, (64)Cu. Two of the new Cu(II) complexes include a functionalized styrylpyridine group and these complexes bind to amyloid-β plaques in samples of post-mortem human brain tissue. Strategies to increase brain uptake by functional group manipulation have led to a (64)Cu complex that effectively crosses the blood-brain barrier in wild-type mice. The new complexes described in this manuscript provide insight into strategies to deliver metal complexes to amyloid-β plaques.

A glutathione derivative with chelating and in vitro neuroprotective activities: synthesis, physicochemical properties, and biological evaluation

Metal-ion dysregulation and oxidative stress have been linked to the progressive neurological decline associated with neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Herein we report the synthesis and chelating, antioxidant, and in vitro neuroprotective activities of a novel derivative of glutathione, GS(HQ)H, endowed with an 8-hydroxyquinoline group as a metal-chelating moiety. In vitro results showed that GS(HQ)H may be stable enough to be absorbed unmodified and arrive intact to the blood-brain barrier, that it may be able to remove Cu(II) and Zn(II) from the Aβ peptide without causing any copper or zinc depletion in vivo, and that it protects SHSY-5Y human neuroblastoma cells against H2 O2 - and 6-OHDA-induced damage. Together, these findings suggest that GS(HQ)H could be a potential neuroprotective agent for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases in which a lack of metal homeostasis has been reported as a key factor.

A versatile long-wavelength-absorbing scaffold for Eu-based responsive probes

Coumarin-sensitized, long-wavelength-absorbing luminescent Eu(III)-complexes have been synthesized and characterized. The lanthanide binding site consists of a cyclen-based chelating framework that is attached through a short linker to a 7-hydroxycoumarin, a 7-B(OH)(2)-coumarin, a 7-O-(4-pinacolatoboronbenzyl)-coumarin or a 7-O-(4-methoxybenzyl)-coumarin. The syntheses are straightforward, use readily available building blocks, and proceed through a small number of high-yielding steps. The sensitivity of coumarin photophysics to the 7-substituent enables modulation of the antenna-absorption properties, and thus the lanthanide excitation spectrum. Reactions of the boronate-based functionalities (cages) with H(2)O(2) yielded the corresponding 7-hydroxycoumarin species. The same species was produced with peroxynitrite in a ×10(6)-10(7)-fold faster reaction. Both reactions resulted in the emergence of a strong ≈407 nm excitation band, with concomitant decrease of the 366 nm band of the caged probe. In aqueous solution the methoxybenzyl caged Eu-complex was quenched by ONOO(-). We have shown that preliminary screening of simple coumarin-based antennae through UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy is possible as the changes in absorption profile translate with good fidelity to changes in Eu(III)-excitation profile in the fully elaborated complex. Taken together, our results show that the 7-hydroxycoumarin antenna is a viable scaffold for the construction of turn-on and ratiometric luminescent probes.

A Potent (R)-alpha-bis-lipoyl Derivative Containing 8-Hydroxyquinoline Scaffold: Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Its Neuroprotective Capabilities in SH-SY5Y Human Neuroblastoma Cells

A novel bis-lipoyl derivative containing 8-hydroxyquinoline scaffold (LA-HQ-LA, 5) was synthesized as a new multifunctional drug candidate with antioxidant, chelant, and neuroprotective properties for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. We have investigated the potential effectiveness of LA-HQ-LA against the cytotoxicity induced by 6-OHDA and H2O2 on human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line. Our outcomes showed that LA-HQ-LA resulted in significant neuroprotective and antioxidant effects against H2O2- and 6-OHDA-induced neurotoxicity in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells, as assessed by MTT assay. In particular, it showed potent neuroprotective effects against 6-OHDA in RA/PMA differentiated cells at all the tested concentrations.

The relevance of metals in the pathophysiology of neurodegeneration, pathological considerations

Neurodegenerative disorders are featured by a variety of pathological conditions that share similar critical processes, such as oxidative stress, free radical activity, proteinaceous aggregations, mitochondrial dysfunctions, and energy failure. They are mediated or triggered by an imbalance of metal ions leading to changes of critical biological systems and initiating a cascade of events finally leading to neurodegeneration and cell death. Their causes are multifactorial, and although the source of the shift in oxidative homeostasis is still unclear, current evidence points to changes in the balance of redox transition metals, especially iron, copper, and other trace metals. They are present at elevated levels in Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, multisystem atrophy, etc., while in other neurodegenerative disorders, copper, zinc, aluminum, and manganese are involved. This chapter will review the recent advances of the role of metals in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of major neurodegenerative diseases and discuss the use of chelating agents as potential therapies for metal-related disorders.

Fluorescent polymer nanoparticle for selective sensing of intracellular hydrogen peroxide

Fluorescent boronate-modified polyacrylonitrile (BPAN) nanoparticles of 50 nm diameter were fabricated for use as a selective H(2)O(2) sensor. The fluorescence intensity changed and an emission peak shifted when BPAN nanoparticles selectively interacted with H(2)O(2), relative to other reactive oxygen species (ROS). The BPAN nanoparticles undergo photoinduced electron transfer (PET) between a Schiff base moiety and boronate, which enhances the fluorescence and makes the nanoparticles suitable for selective ROS recognition. We demonstrate the use of these nanoparticles as a detector of endogenous H(2)O(2) produced in living cells. The representative features of the fluorescent BPAN nanoparticles that make them particularly attractive for H(2)O(2) and ROS detection are the following: they are easily synthesized as PET sensors; they exhibit a characteristic emission peak and peak shift that distinguishes reaction with H(2)O(2) from other ROS; and compared to organic compounds, the sensing moiety on BPAN polymer nanoparticles is more thermally stable and has superior mechanical properties, enabling their use in various biomedical applications.