1
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Moura NMM, Guedes S, Salvador D, Oliveira H, Alves MQ, Paradis N, Wu C, Neves MGPMS, Ramos CIV. Oncogenic and telomeric G-quadruplexes: Targets for porphyrin-triphenylphosphonium conjugates. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 277:134126. [PMID: 39097044 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
DNA chains with sequential guanine (G) repeats can lead to the formation of G-quadruplexes (G4), which are found in functional DNA and RNA regions like telomeres and oncogene promoters. The development of molecules with adequate structural features to selectively stabilize G4 structures can counteract cell immortality, highly described for cancer cells, and also downregulate transcription events underlying cell apoptosis and/or senescence processes. We describe here, the efficiency of four highly charged porphyrins-phosphonium conjugates to act as G4 stabilizing agents. The spectrophotometric results allowed to select the conjugates P2-PPh3 and P3-PPh3 as the most promising ones to stabilize selectively G4 structures. Molecular dynamics simulation experiments were performed and support the preferential binding of P2-PPh3 namely to MYC and of P3-PPh3 to KRAS. The ability of both ligands to block the activity of Taq polymerase was confirmed and also their higher cytotoxicity against the two melanoma cell lines A375 and SK-MEL-28 than to immortalized skin keratinocytes. Both ligands present efficient cellular uptake, nuclear co-localization and high ability to generate 1O2 namely when interacting with G4 structure. The obtained data points the synthesized porphyrins as promising ligands to be used in a dual approach that can combine G4 stabilization and Photodynamic therapy (PDT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno M M Moura
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Sofia Guedes
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Diana Salvador
- CESAM-Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Helena Oliveira
- CESAM-Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mariana Q Alves
- Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Nicholas Paradis
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ, United States of America
| | - Chun Wu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ, United States of America
| | - M Graça P M S Neves
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Catarina I V Ramos
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
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2
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Peng H, Zhang Y, Luo Q, Wang X, You H. Unfolding rates of 1:1 and 2:1 complex of CX-5461 and c- MYC promoter G-quadruplexes revealed by single-molecule force spectroscopy. BIOPHYSICS REPORTS 2024; 10:180-189. [PMID: 39027314 PMCID: PMC11252239 DOI: 10.52601/bpr.2024.240018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
CX-5461, also known as pidnarulex, is a strong G4 stabilizer and has received FDA fast-track designation for BRCA1- and BRCA2- mutated cancers. However, quantitative measurements of the unfolding rates of CX-5461-G4 complexes which are important for the regulation function of G4s, remain lacking. Here, we employ single-molecule magnetic tweezers to measure the unfolding force distributions of c-MYC G4s in the presence of different concentrations of CX-5461. The unfolding force distributions exhibit three discrete levels of unfolding force peaks, corresponding to three binding modes. In combination with a fluorescent quenching assay and molecular docking to previously reported ligand-c-MYC G4 structure, we assigned the ~69 pN peak corresponding to the 1:1 (ligand:G4) complex where CX-5461 binds at the G4's 5'-end. The ~84 pN peak is attributed to the 2:1 complex where CX-5461 occupies both the 5' and 3'. Furthermore, using the Bell-Arrhenius model to fit the unfolding force distributions, we determined the zero-force unfolding rates of 1:1, and 2:1 complexes to be (2.4 ± 0.9) × 10-8 s-1 and (1.4 ± 1.0) × 10-9 s-1 respectively. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of G4-targeted ligands to combat c-MYC-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Peng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yashuo Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Qun Luo
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- College of Physics Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Huijuan You
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Resource Evaluation, School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
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3
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Terrell JR, Le TT, Paul A, Brinton MA, Wilson WD, Poon GMK, Germann MW, Siemer JL. Structure of an RNA G-quadruplex from the West Nile virus genome. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5428. [PMID: 38926367 PMCID: PMC11208454 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49761-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Potential G-quadruplex sites have been identified in the genomes of DNA and RNA viruses and proposed as regulatory elements. The genus Orthoflavivirus contains arthropod-transmitted, positive-sense, single-stranded RNA viruses that cause significant human disease globally. Computational studies have identified multiple potential G-quadruplex sites that are conserved across members of this genus. Subsequent biophysical studies established that some G-quadruplexes predicted in Zika and tickborne encephalitis virus genomes can form and known quadruplex binders reduced viral yields from cells infected with these viruses. The susceptibility of RNA to degradation and the variability of loop regions have made structure determination challenging. Despite these difficulties, we report a high-resolution structure of the NS5-B quadruplex from the West Nile virus genome. Analysis reveals two stacked tetrads that are further stabilized by a stacked triad and transient noncanonical base pairing. This structure expands the landscape of solved RNA quadruplex structures and demonstrates the diversity and complexity of biological quadruplexes. We anticipate that the availability of this structure will assist in solving further viral RNA quadruplexes and provides a model for a conserved antiviral target in Orthoflavivirus genomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ross Terrell
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Thao T Le
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Ananya Paul
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Margo A Brinton
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - W David Wilson
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Gregory M K Poon
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
| | - Markus W Germann
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA.
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA.
| | - Jessica L Siemer
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA.
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4
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Figueiredo J, Mergny JL, Cruz C. G-quadruplex ligands in cancer therapy: Progress, challenges, and clinical perspectives. Life Sci 2024; 340:122481. [PMID: 38301873 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Guanine-rich sequences can form G-quadruplexes (G4) in living cells, making these structures promising anti-cancer targets. Compounds able to recognize these structures have been investigated as potential anticancer drugs; however, no G4 binder has yet been approved in the clinic. Here, we describe G4 ligands structure-activity relationships, in vivo effects as well as clinical trials. Addressing G4 ligand characteristics, targeting challenges, and structure-activity relationships, this review provides insights into the development of potent and selective G4-targeting molecules for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Figueiredo
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Jean-Louis Mergny
- Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, CNRS, INSERM, Université Paris-Saclay, 91128 Palaiseau cedex, France; Institute of Biophysics of the CAS, v.v.i., Královopolská 135, 612 65 Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Carla Cruz
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal; Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade da Beira Interior, Rua Marquês de Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal.
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5
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Andreasson M, Donzel M, Abrahamsson A, Berner A, Doimo M, Quiroga A, Eriksson A, Chao YK, Overman J, Pemberton N, Wanrooij S, Chorell E. Exploring the Dispersion and Electrostatic Components in Arene-Arene Interactions between Ligands and G4 DNA to Develop G4-Ligands. J Med Chem 2024; 67:2202-2219. [PMID: 38241609 PMCID: PMC10860144 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
G-Quadruplex (G4) DNA structures are important regulatory elements in central biological processes. Small molecules that selectively bind and stabilize G4 structures have therapeutic potential, and there are currently >1000 known G4 ligands. Despite this, only two G4 ligands ever made it to clinical trials. In this work, we synthesized several heterocyclic G4 ligands and studied their interactions with G4s (e.g., G4s from the c-MYC, c-KIT, and BCL-2 promoters) using biochemical assays. We further studied the effect of selected compounds on cell viability, the effect on the number of G4s in cells, and their pharmacokinetic properties. This identified potent G4 ligands with suitable properties and further revealed that the dispersion component in arene-arene interactions in combination with electron-deficient electrostatics is central for the ligand to bind with the G4 efficiently. The presented design strategy can be applied in the further development of G4-ligands with suitable properties to explore G4s as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Måns Andreasson
- Chemical
Biology Consortium Sweden, Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Maxime Donzel
- Chemical
Biology Consortium Sweden, Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Alva Abrahamsson
- Chemical
Biology Consortium Sweden, Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Andreas Berner
- Departments
of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University, Umeå 90736, Sweden
| | - Mara Doimo
- Departments
of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University, Umeå 90736, Sweden
- Clinical
Genetics Unit, Department of Women and Children’s Health, Padua University, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Anna Quiroga
- Departments
of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University, Umeå 90736, Sweden
| | - Anna Eriksson
- Chemical
Biology Consortium Sweden, Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Yu-Kai Chao
- Mechanistic
and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge CB2 0AA, U.K.
| | - Jeroen Overman
- Mechanistic
and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge CB2 0AA, U.K.
| | - Nils Pemberton
- Medicinal
Chemistry, Research and Early Development, Respiratory and Immunology
(R&I), Bio Pharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg SE-43183, Sweden
| | - Sjoerd Wanrooij
- Departments
of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University, Umeå 90736, Sweden
| | - Erik Chorell
- Chemical
Biology Consortium Sweden, Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
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6
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Nicolás Á, Quero JG, Barroso M, Gándara Z, Gude L. DNA Interactions and Biological Activity of 2,9-Disubstituted 1,10-Phenanthroline Thiosemicarbazone-Based Ligands and a 4-Phenylthiazole Derivative. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:60. [PMID: 38275736 PMCID: PMC10813753 DOI: 10.3390/biology13010060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Four 1,10-phenanthroline derivatives (1-4) were synthesized as potential telomeric DNA binders, three substituted in their chains with thiosemicarbazones (TSCs) and one 4-phenylthiazole derivative. The compounds were characterized using NMR, HRMS, FTIR-spectroscopy and combustion elemental analysis. Quadruplex and dsDNA interactions were preliminarily studied, especially for neutral derivative 1, using FRET-based DNA melting assays, equilibrium dialysis (both competitive and non-competitive), circular dichroism and viscosity titrations. The TSC derivatives bind and stabilize the telomeric Tel22 quadruplex more efficiently than dsDNA, with an estimated 24-fold selectivity determined through equilibrium dialysis for compound 1. In addition, cytotoxic activity against various tumor cells (PC-3, DU145, HeLa, MCF-7 and HT29) and two normal cell lines (HFF-1 and RWPE-1) was evaluated. Except for the 4-phenylthiazole derivative, which was inactive, the compounds showed moderate cytotoxic properties, with the salts displaying lower IC50 values (30-80 μM), compared to the neutral TSC, except in PC-3 cells (IC50 (1) = 18 μM). However, the neutral derivative was the only compound that exhibited a modest selectivity in the case of prostate cells (tumor PC-3 versus healthy RWPE-1). Cell cycle analysis and Annexin V/PI assays revealed that the compounds can produce cell death by apoptosis, an effect that has proven to be similar to that demonstrated by other known 1,10-phenanthroline G4 ligands endowed with antitumor properties, such as PhenDC3 and PhenQE8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Nicolás
- Universidad de Alcalá, Departamento de Química Orgánica y Química Inorgánica, Instituto de Investigación Química “Andrés M. del Río” (IQAR), 28805 Madrid, Spain; (Á.N.)
- Grupo DISCOBAC, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla-La Mancha (IDISCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain
| | - Julia G. Quero
- Universidad de Alcalá, Departamento de Química Orgánica y Química Inorgánica, Instituto de Investigación Química “Andrés M. del Río” (IQAR), 28805 Madrid, Spain; (Á.N.)
| | - Marta Barroso
- Universidad de Alcalá, Departamento de Química Orgánica y Química Inorgánica, Instituto de Investigación Química “Andrés M. del Río” (IQAR), 28805 Madrid, Spain; (Á.N.)
| | - Zoila Gándara
- Universidad de Alcalá, Departamento de Química Orgánica y Química Inorgánica, Instituto de Investigación Química “Andrés M. del Río” (IQAR), 28805 Madrid, Spain; (Á.N.)
- Grupo DISCOBAC, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla-La Mancha (IDISCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain
| | - Lourdes Gude
- Universidad de Alcalá, Departamento de Química Orgánica y Química Inorgánica, Instituto de Investigación Química “Andrés M. del Río” (IQAR), 28805 Madrid, Spain; (Á.N.)
- Grupo DISCOBAC, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla-La Mancha (IDISCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain
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7
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Pathak R. G-Quadruplexes in the Viral Genome: Unlocking Targets for Therapeutic Interventions and Antiviral Strategies. Viruses 2023; 15:2216. [PMID: 38005893 PMCID: PMC10674748 DOI: 10.3390/v15112216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are unique non-canonical four-stranded nucleic acid secondary structures formed by guanine-rich DNA or RNA sequences. Sequences with the potential to form quadruplex motifs (pG4s) are prevalent throughout the genomes of all organisms, spanning from prokaryotes to eukaryotes, and are enriched within regions of biological significance. In the past few years, the identification of pG4s within most of the Baltimore group viruses has attracted increasing attention due to their occurrence in regulatory regions of the genome and the subsequent implications for regulating critical stages of viral life cycles. In this context, the employment of specific G4 ligands has aided in comprehending the intricate G4-mediated regulatory mechanisms in the viral life cycle, showcasing the potential of targeting viral G4s as a novel antiviral strategy. This review offers a thorough update on the literature concerning G4s in viruses, including their identification and functional significance across most of the human-infecting viruses. Furthermore, it delves into potential therapeutic avenues targeting G4s, encompassing various G4-binding ligands, G4-interacting proteins, and oligonucleotide-based strategies. Finally, the article highlights both progress and challenges in the field, providing valuable insights into leveraging this unusual nucleic acid structure for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv Pathak
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
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8
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Sato K, Knipscheer P. G-quadruplex resolution: From molecular mechanisms to physiological relevance. DNA Repair (Amst) 2023; 130:103552. [PMID: 37572578 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2023.103552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Guanine-rich DNA sequences can fold into stable four-stranded structures called G-quadruplexes or G4s. Research in the past decade demonstrated that G4 structures are widespread in the genome and prevalent in regulatory regions of actively transcribed genes. The formation of G4s has been tightly linked to important biological processes including regulation of gene expression and genome maintenance. However, they can also pose a serious threat to genome integrity especially by impeding DNA replication, and G4-associated somatic mutations have been found accumulated in the cancer genomes. Specialised DNA helicases and single stranded DNA binding proteins that can resolve G4 structures play a crucial role in preventing genome instability. The large variety of G4 unfolding proteins suggest the presence of multiple G4 resolution mechanisms in cells. Recently, there has been considerable progress in our detailed understanding of how G4s are resolved, especially during DNA replication. In this review, we first discuss the current knowledge of the genomic G4 landscapes and the impact of G4 structures on DNA replication and genome integrity. We then describe the recent progress on the mechanisms that resolve G4 structures and their physiological relevance. Finally, we discuss therapeutic opportunities to target G4 structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koichi Sato
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute-KNAW & University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Puck Knipscheer
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute-KNAW & University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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9
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Mou X, Kwok CK. Peptides Selected by G4-mRNA Display-Seq Enable RNA G-Quadruplex Recognition and Gene Regulation. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:18693-18697. [PMID: 37582058 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c04534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are noncanonical secondary structures that play critical roles in both chemistry and biology. Although several approaches have been developed for G4 targeting, such as chemicals and antibodies, there is currently no general and efficient platform for G4-specific peptides. In this study, we developed a new platform, G4-mRNA display-Seq, for selecting peptides that specifically recognize the G4 target of interest. By using an RNA G4 (rG4) found in human telomerase RNA (hTERC) as the target, we have identified a novel short peptide, namely, peptide 11 (pep11), which displays high affinity and selectivity to hTERC rG4. Furthermore, we designed tandem and cyclic versions of pep11 and found that both modified versions exhibit stronger binding affinity with preferential rG4 selectivity. Notably, we have demonstrated that these peptides can negatively regulate gene expression by targeting rG4. Our results provide a universal platform for the discovery of G4-targeting peptides and demonstrate the ability of these peptides to regulate G4-mediated gene functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Mou
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Chun Kit Kwok
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518057, China
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10
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Fang J, Zheng L, Liu Y, Peng Y, Yang Q, Huang Y, Zhang J, Luo L, Shen D, Tan Y, Lu X, Feng G. Smart G-quadruplex hydrogels: From preparations to comprehensive applications. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 247:125614. [PMID: 37414320 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the accelerated development of G-quadruplexes and hydrogels has driven the development of intelligent biomaterials. Based on the excellent biocompatibility and special biological functions of G-quadruplexes, and the hydrophilicity, high-water retention, high water content, flexibility and excellent biodegradability of hydrogels, G-quadruplex hydrogels are widely used in various fields by combining the dual advantages of G-quadruplexes and hydrogels. Here, we provide a systematic and comprehensive classification of G-quadruplex hydrogels in terms of preparation strategies and applications. This paper reveals how G-quadruplex hydrogels skillfully utilize the special biological functions of G-quadruplexes and the skeleton structure of hydrogels, and expounds its applications in the fields of biomedicine, biocatalysis, biosensing and biomaterials. In addition, we deeply analyze the challenges in preparation, applications, stability and safety of G-quadruplex hydrogels, as well as potential future development directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Fang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Lijuan Zheng
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yan Liu
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yuxin Peng
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Qinghui Yang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yuewen Huang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Jiali Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Lixin Luo
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Dunkai Shen
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yuyan Tan
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Xuefen Lu
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Guangfu Feng
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
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11
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Fukuda H, Zou T, Fujii S, Sato S, Wakahara D, Higashi S, Tseng TY, Chang TC, Yada N, Matsuo K, Habu M, Tominaga K, Takeuchi H, Takenaka S. Cyclic anthraquinone derivatives, unique G-quadruplex binders, selectively induce cancer cell apoptosis and inhibit tumor growth. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad211. [PMID: 37416876 PMCID: PMC10319625 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic anthraquinone derivatives (cAQs), which link two side chains of 1,5-disubstituted anthraquinone as a threading DNA intercalator, have been developed as G-quartet (G4) DNA-specific ligands. Among the cAQs, cAQ-mBen linked through the 1,3-position of benzene had the strongest affinity for G4 recognition and stabilization in vitro and was confirmed to bind to the G4 structure in vivo, selectively inhibiting cancer cell proliferation in correlation with telomerase expression levels and triggering cell apoptosis. RNA-sequencing analysis further indicated that differentially expressed genes regulated by cAQ-mBen were profiled with more potential quadruplex-forming sequences. In the treatment of the tumor-bearing mouse model, cAQ-mBen could effectively reduce tumor tissue and had less adverse effects on healthy tissue. These results suggest that cAQ-mBen can be a potential cancer therapeutic agent as a G4 binder.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Daiki Wakahara
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Fukuoka 804-8550, Japan
| | - Sen Higashi
- Division of Applied Pharmacology, Department of Health Promotion, Kyushu Dental University, Fukuoka 803-8580, Japan
| | - Ting-Yuan Tseng
- Institute of Atomic and Molecular Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Ta-Chau Chang
- Institute of Atomic and Molecular Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Naomi Yada
- Division of Oral Pathology, Department of Health Promotion, Kyushu Dental University, Fukuoka 803-8580, Japan
| | - Kou Matsuo
- Division of Oral Pathology, Department of Health Promotion, Kyushu Dental University, Fukuoka 803-8580, Japan
| | - Manabu Habu
- Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Science of Physical Functions, Kyushu Dental University, Fukuoka 803-8580, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Tominaga
- Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Science of Physical Functions, Kyushu Dental University, Fukuoka 803-8580, Japan
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12
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Sasaki S, Ma Y, Hirokawa T, Ikebukuro K, Tera M, Nagasawa K. Regulation of thrombin activity by ligand-induced topological alteration in a thrombin-binding aptamer. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023. [PMID: 37377065 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc02308g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Thrombin-binding aptamer (TBA), which forms a G-quadruplex (G4) structure with anti-parallel topology, interacts with thrombin to inhibit its enzymatic activity. Here we show that the G4-topology-altering ligand L2H2-2M2EA-6LCO (6LCO) changes the anti-parallel topology of TBA G4 to the parallel topology, thereby abrogating the thrombin-inhibitory activity of TBA. This finding suggests that G4 ligands that alter topology may be promising drug candidates for diseases involving G4-binding proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shogo Sasaki
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-cho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan.
| | - Yue Ma
- Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
- Research Core Center, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Takatsugu Hirokawa
- Transborder Medical Research Center, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
- Division of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
| | - Kazunori Ikebukuro
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-cho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan.
| | - Masayuki Tera
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-cho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan.
| | - Kazuo Nagasawa
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-cho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan.
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13
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Cadoni E, De Paepe L, Colpaert G, Tack R, Waegeman D, Manicardi A, Madder A. A red light-triggered chemical tool for sequence-specific alkylation of G-quadruplex and I-motif DNA. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:4112-4125. [PMID: 36971129 PMCID: PMC10201448 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The importance of non-canonical DNA structures such as G-quadruplexes (G4) and intercalating-motifs (iMs) in the fine regulation of a variety of cellular processes has been recently demonstrated. As the crucial roles of these structures are being unravelled, it is becoming more and more important to develop tools that allow targeting these structures with the highest possible specificity. While targeting methodologies have been reported for G4s, this is not the case for iMs, as evidenced by the limited number of specific ligands able to bind the latter and the total absence of selective alkylating agents for their covalent targeting. Furthermore, strategies for the sequence-specific covalent targeting of G4s and iMs have not been reported thus far. Herein, we describe a simple methodology to achieve sequence-specific covalent targeting of G4 and iM DNA structures based on the combination of (i) a peptide nucleic acid (PNA) recognizing a specific sequence of interest, (ii) a pro-reactive moiety enabling a controlled alkylation reaction, and (iii) a G4 or iM ligand orienting the alkylating warhead to the reactive residues. This multi-component system allows for the targeting of specific G4 or iM sequences of interest in the presence of competing DNA sequences and under biologically relevant conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Cadoni
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lessandro De Paepe
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gertjan Colpaert
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ruben Tack
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dries Waegeman
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alex Manicardi
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annemieke Madder
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
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14
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Roy A, Basu D, Bose D, Dutta A, Dastidar SG, Chatterjee S. Identification and characterization of a flexile G-quadruplex in the distal promoter region of stemness gene REX1. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 231:123263. [PMID: 36649868 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
We have identified a parallel G-quadruplex (R1WT) in the distal promoter region (-821 base-pairs upstream of the TSS) of the pluripotent gene REX1. Through biophysical and biochemical approach, we have characterized the G-quadruplex (GQ) as a potential molecular switch that may control REX1 promoter activity to determine the transcriptional fate. Small- molecule interactive study of the monomeric form of R1WT (characterized as R1mut2) with TMPyP4 and BRACO-19 revealed GQ destabilization upon interaction with TMPyP4 and stabilization upon interaction with BRACO-19. This distinctive drug interactivity suggests the in cellulo R1WT to be a promising drug target. The endogenous existence of R1WT was confirmed by BG4 antibody derived chromatin immunoprecipitation experiment. Here in, we also report the endogenous interaction of GQ specific transcription factors (TFs) with R1WT region in the human chromatin of cancer cell. The wild-type G-quadruplex was found to interact with four important transcription factors, (i) specificity protein (Sp1) (ii) non-metastatic cell 2 (NM23-H2): a diphosphatase (iii) cellular nucleic acid binding protein (CNBP) and (iv) heterogenous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNPK) in the REX1 promoter. In contrast, nucleolin protein (NCL) binding was found to be low to the said G-quadruplex. The flexibility of R1WT between folded and unfolded states, obtained from experimental and computational analysis strongly suggests R1WT to be an important gene regulatory element in the genome. It controls promoter DNA relaxation with the coordinated interaction of transcription factors, the deregulation of which seeds stemness characteristic in cancer cells for further metastatic progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ananya Roy
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, EN-80 Sector V, Salt Lake, Unified Campus, Kolkata 700091, India
| | - Debadrita Basu
- Department of Bioinformatics, Bose Institute, EN-80 Sector V, Salt Lake, Unified Campus, Kolkata 700091, India
| | - Debopriya Bose
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, EN-80 Sector V, Salt Lake, Unified Campus, Kolkata 700091, India
| | - Anindya Dutta
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, EN-80 Sector V, Salt Lake, Unified Campus, Kolkata 700091, India
| | - Shubhra Ghosh Dastidar
- Department of Bioinformatics, Bose Institute, EN-80 Sector V, Salt Lake, Unified Campus, Kolkata 700091, India
| | - Subhrangsu Chatterjee
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, EN-80 Sector V, Salt Lake, Unified Campus, Kolkata 700091, India.
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15
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Nagatsugi F, Onizuka K. Selective Chemical Modification to the Higher-Order Structures of Nucleic Acids. CHEM REC 2023; 23:e202200194. [PMID: 36111635 DOI: 10.1002/tcr.202200194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
DNA and RNA can adopt a variety of stable higher-order structural motifs, including G-quadruplex (G4 s), mismatches, and bulges. Many of these secondary structures are closely related to the regulation of gene expression. Therefore, the higher-order structure of nucleic acids is one of the candidate therapeutic targets, and the development of binding molecules targeting the higher-order structure of nucleic acids has been pursued vigorously. Furthermore, as one of the methodologies for detecting the higher-order structures of these nucleic acids, developing techniques for the selective chemical modification of the higher-order structures of nucleic acids is also underway. In this personal account, we focus on the following higher-order structures of nucleic acids, double-stranded DNA containing the abasic site, T-T/U-U mismatch structure, and G-quadruplex structure, and describe the development of molecules that bind to and chemically modify these structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumi Nagatsugi
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Advanced Materials, Tohoku University, 2-1-1 Katahira, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8577, Japan.,Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8578, Japan
| | - Kazumitsu Onizuka
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Advanced Materials, Tohoku University, 2-1-1 Katahira, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8577, Japan.,Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8578, Japan.,Division for the Establishment of Frontier Sciences of Organization for Advanced Studies, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8577, Japan
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16
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Gorini F, Ambrosio S, Lania L, Majello B, Amente S. The Intertwined Role of 8-oxodG and G4 in Transcription Regulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032031. [PMID: 36768357 PMCID: PMC9916577 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The guanine base in nucleic acids is, among the other bases, the most susceptible to being converted into 8-Oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG) when exposed to reactive oxygen species. In double-helix DNA, 8-oxodG can pair with adenine; hence, it may cause a G > T (C > A) mutation; it is frequently referred to as a form of DNA damage and promptly corrected by DNA repair mechanisms. Moreover, 8-oxodG has recently been redefined as an epigenetic factor that impacts transcriptional regulatory elements and other epigenetic modifications. It has been proposed that 8-oxodG exerts epigenetic control through interplay with the G-quadruplex (G4), a non-canonical DNA structure, in transcription regulatory regions. In this review, we focused on the epigenetic roles of 8-oxodG and the G4 and explored their interplay at the genomic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gorini
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Susanna Ambrosio
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Lania
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Barbara Majello
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Amente
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence:
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17
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Reznichenko O, Leclercq D, Franco Pinto J, Mouawad L, Gabelica V, Granzhan A. Optimization of G-Quadruplex Ligands through a SAR Study Combining Parallel Synthesis and Screening of Cationic Bis(acylhydrazones). Chemistry 2023; 29:e202202427. [PMID: 36286608 PMCID: PMC10099395 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202202427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s), secondary structures adopted by guanine-rich DNA and RNA sequences, are implicated in numerous biological processes and have been suggested as potential drug targets. Accordingly, there is an increasing interest in developing high-throughput methods that allow the generation of congeneric series of G4-targeting molecules ("ligands") and investigating their interactions with the targets. We have developed an operationally simple method of parallel synthesis to generate "ready-to-screen" libraries of cationic acylhydrazones, a motif that we have previously identified as a promising scaffold for potent, biologically active G4 ligands. Combined with well-established screening techniques, such as fluorescence melting, this method enables the rapid synthesis and screening of combinatorial libraries of potential G4 ligands. Following this protocol, we synthesized a combinatorial library of 90 bis(acylhydrazones) and screened it against five different nucleic acid structures. This way, we were able to analyze the structure-activity relationships within this series of G4 ligands, and identified three novel promising ligands whose interactions with G4-DNAs of different topologies were studied in detail by a combination of several biophysical techniques, including native mass spectrometry, and molecular modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oksana Reznichenko
- CMBC, CNRS UMR9187Inserm U1196, Institut CuriePSL Research University91405OrsayFrance
- CMBC, CNRS UMR9187Inserm U1196Université Paris Saclay91405OrsayFrance
| | - Denis Leclercq
- CMBC, CNRS UMR9187Inserm U1196, Institut CuriePSL Research University91405OrsayFrance
- CMBC, CNRS UMR9187Inserm U1196Université Paris Saclay91405OrsayFrance
| | - Jaime Franco Pinto
- CMBC, CNRS UMR9187Inserm U1196, Institut CuriePSL Research University91405OrsayFrance
- CMBC, CNRS UMR9187Inserm U1196Université Paris Saclay91405OrsayFrance
| | - Liliane Mouawad
- CMBC, CNRS UMR9187Inserm U1196, Institut CuriePSL Research University91405OrsayFrance
- CMBC, CNRS UMR9187Inserm U1196Université Paris Saclay91405OrsayFrance
| | - Valérie Gabelica
- Univ. BordeauxCNRS, INSERM, ARNAUMR 5320, U1212, IECB33600PessacFrance
| | - Anton Granzhan
- CMBC, CNRS UMR9187Inserm U1196, Institut CuriePSL Research University91405OrsayFrance
- CMBC, CNRS UMR9187Inserm U1196Université Paris Saclay91405OrsayFrance
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18
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Teng Y, Zhu M, Chi Y, Li L, Jin Y. Can G-quadruplex become a promising target in HBV therapy? Front Immunol 2022; 13:1091873. [PMID: 36591216 PMCID: PMC9797731 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1091873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The chronic infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an important health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Current therapies for HBV always suffer from a poor response rate, common side effects, and the need for lifelong treatment. Novel therapeutic targets are expected. Interestingly, non-canonical structures of nucleic acids play crucial roles in the regulation of gene expression. Especially the formation of G-quadruplexes (G4s) in G-rich strands has been demonstrated to affect many bioprocesses including replication, transcription, and translation, showing great potential as targets in anticancer and antiviral therapies. In this review, we summarize recent antiviral studies about G4s and discuss the potential roles of G4 structures in antiviral therapy for HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Teng
- School of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Ming Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Yuan Chi
- Pharmaceutical Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Lijing Li
- School of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China,*Correspondence: Lijing Li, ; Ye Jin,
| | - Ye Jin
- School of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China,*Correspondence: Lijing Li, ; Ye Jin,
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19
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Lo R, Majid A, Fruhwirth GO, Vilar R. Radiolabelling Pt-based quadruplex DNA binders via click chemistry. Bioorg Med Chem 2022; 76:117097. [PMID: 36417789 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.117097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Guanine-rich sequences of DNA and RNA can fold into intramolecular tetra-helical assemblies known as G-quadruplexes (G4). Their formation in vivo has been associated to a range of biological functions and therefore they have been identified as potential drug targets. Consequently, a broad range of small molecules have been developed to target G4s. Amongst those are metal complexes with Schiff base ligands. Herein, we report the functionalisation of one of these well-established G4 DNA binders (based on a square planar platinum(II)-salphen complex) with two different radiolabelled complexes. An 111In-conjugate was successfully used to assess its in vivo distribution in a mouse tumour model using single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging. These studies highlighted the accumulation of this Pt-salphen-111In conjugate in the tumour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainbow Lo
- Imaging Therapies and Cancer Group, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, SE1 1UL London, UK; Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City Campus, Imperial College London, W12 0BZ London, UK
| | - Aatikah Majid
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City Campus, Imperial College London, W12 0BZ London, UK
| | - Gilbert O Fruhwirth
- Imaging Therapies and Cancer Group, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, SE1 1UL London, UK.
| | - Ramon Vilar
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City Campus, Imperial College London, W12 0BZ London, UK.
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20
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Shen R, Li X, Chen Y, Yang A, Kou X. Xanthone derivatives as potential telomeric G-quadruplex stabilizing and cytotoxic agents: Effects of substitution on quadruplex binding affinity and cytotoxicity. J Mol Struct 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2022.133894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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21
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Weynand J, Episkopou H, Le Berre G, Gillard M, Dejeu J, Decottignies A, Defrancq E, Elias B. Photo-induced telomeric DNA damage in human cancer cells. RSC Chem Biol 2022; 3:1375-1379. [PMID: 36544575 PMCID: PMC9709782 DOI: 10.1039/d2cb00192f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Herein we report on the study of novel dinuclear ruthenium(ii) complexes designed to target and to photo-react with G-quadruplex telomeric DNA. Upon irradiation, complexes efficiently generate guanine radical cation sites as photo-oxidation products. The compounds also display efficient cell penetration with localization to the nucleus and show strong photocytotoxicity toward osteosarcoma cells. Thanks to a microscopic-based telomere dysfunction assay, which allows the direct visualization of DNA damage in cells, we brought the first evidence of forming photo-oxidative damage at telomeres in cellulo. This emphasizes interesting prospects for the development of future cancer phototherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Weynand
- Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Institut de la Matière Condensée et des Nanosciences (IMCN), Molecular Chemistry, Materials and Catalysis (MOST)Place Louis Pasteur 1, bte L4.01.02B-1348 Louvain-la-NeuveBelgium,Université Grenoble-Alpes (UGA), Département de Chimie Moléculaire, UMR CNRS 5250, CS 4070038058 GrenobleFrance
| | - Harikleia Episkopou
- Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Genetic and Epigenetic Alterations of Genomes, de Duve InstituteAvenue Hippocrate 751200 BrusselsBelgium
| | - Gabriel Le Berre
- Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Genetic and Epigenetic Alterations of Genomes, de Duve InstituteAvenue Hippocrate 751200 BrusselsBelgium
| | - Martin Gillard
- Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Institut de la Matière Condensée et des Nanosciences (IMCN), Molecular Chemistry, Materials and Catalysis (MOST)Place Louis Pasteur 1, bte L4.01.02B-1348 Louvain-la-NeuveBelgium
| | - Jérôme Dejeu
- Université Grenoble-Alpes (UGA), Département de Chimie Moléculaire, UMR CNRS 5250, CS 4070038058 GrenobleFrance
| | - Anabelle Decottignies
- Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Genetic and Epigenetic Alterations of Genomes, de Duve InstituteAvenue Hippocrate 751200 BrusselsBelgium
| | - Eric Defrancq
- Université Grenoble-Alpes (UGA), Département de Chimie Moléculaire, UMR CNRS 5250, CS 4070038058 GrenobleFrance
| | - Benjamin Elias
- Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Institut de la Matière Condensée et des Nanosciences (IMCN), Molecular Chemistry, Materials and Catalysis (MOST)Place Louis Pasteur 1, bte L4.01.02B-1348 Louvain-la-NeuveBelgium
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22
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Andréasson M, Bhuma N, Pemberton N, Chorell E. Using Macrocyclic G-Quadruplex Ligands to Decipher the Interactions Between Small Molecules and G-Quadruplex DNA. Chemistry 2022; 28:e202202020. [PMID: 35997141 PMCID: PMC9826068 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202202020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to deepen the knowledge of the current state of rational G4-ligand design through the design and synthesis of a novel set of compounds based on indoles, quinolines, and benzofurans and their comparisons with well-known G4-ligands. This resulted in novel synthetic methods and G4-ligands that bind and stabilize G4 DNA with high selectivity. Furthermore, the study corroborates previous studies on the design of G4-ligands and adds deeper explanations to why a) macrocycles offer advantages in terms of G4-binding and -selectivity, b) molecular pre-organization is of key importance in the development of strong novel binders, c) an electron-deficient aromatic core is essential to engage in strong arene-arene interactions with the G4-surface, and d) aliphatic amines can strengthen interactions indirectly through changing the arene electrostatic nature of the compound. Finally, fundamental physicochemical properties of selected G4-binders are evaluated, underscoring the complexity of aligning the properties required for efficient G4 binding and stabilization with feasible pharmacokinetic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Naresh Bhuma
- Department of ChemistryUmeå University90187UmeåSweden
| | - Nils Pemberton
- AstraZenecaPepparedsleden 1431 50MölndalGothenburgSweden
| | - Erik Chorell
- Department of ChemistryUmeå University90187UmeåSweden
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23
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Monsen RC, Trent JO, Chaires JB. G-quadruplex DNA: A Longer Story. Acc Chem Res 2022; 55:3242-3252. [PMID: 36282946 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.2c00519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are distinctive four-stranded DNA or RNA structures found within cells that are thought to play functional roles in gene regulation and transcription, translation, recombination, and DNA damage/repair. While G4 structures can be uni-, bi-, or tetramolecular with respect to strands, folded unimolecular conformations are most significant in vivo. Unimolecular G4 can potentially form in sequences with runs of guanines interspersed with what will become loops in the folded structure: 5'GxLyGxLyGxLyGx, where x is typically 2-4 and y is highly variable. Such sequences are highly conserved and specifically located in genomes. In the folded structure, guanines from each run combine to form planar tetrads with four hydrogen-bonded guanine bases; these tetrads stack on one another to produce four strand segments aligned in specific parallel or antiparallel orientations, connected by the loop sequences. Three types of loops (lateral, diagonal, or "propeller") have been identified. The stacked tetrads form a central cavity that features strong coordination sites for monovalent cations that stabilize the G4 structure, with potassium or sodium preferred. A single monomeric G4 typically forms from a sequence containing roughly 20-30 nucleotides. Such short sequences have been the primary focus of X-ray crystallographic or NMR studies that have produced high-resolution structures of a variety of monomeric G4 conformations. These structures are often used as the basis for drug design efforts to modulate G4 function.We believe that the focus on monomeric G4 structures formed by such short sequences is perhaps myopic. Such short sequences for structural studies are often arbitrarily selected and removed from their native genomic sequence context, and then are often changed from their native sequences by base substitutions or deletions intended to optimize the formation of a homogeneous G4 conformation. We believe instead that G-quadruplexes prefer company and that in a longer natural sequence context multiple adjacent G4 units can form to combine into more complex multimeric G4 structures with richer topographies than simple monomeric forms. Bioinformatic searches of the human genome show that longer sequences with the potential for forming multiple G4 units are common. Telomeric DNA, for example, has a single-stranded overhang of hundreds of nucleotides with the requisite repetitive sequence with the potential for formation of multiple G4s. Numerous extended promoter sequences have similar potentials for multimeric G4 formation. X-ray crystallography and NMR methods are challenged by these longer sequences (>30 nt), so other tools are needed to explore the possible multimeric G4 landscape. We have implemented an integrated structural biology approach to address this challenge. This approach integrates experimental biophysical results with atomic-level molecular modeling and molecular dynamics simulations that provide quantitatively testable model structures. In every long sequence we have studied so far, we found that multimeric G4 structures readily form, with a surprising diversity of structures dependent on the exact native sequence used. In some cases, stable hairpin duplexes form along with G4 units to provide an even richer landscape. This Account provides an overview of our approach and recent progress and provides a new perspective on the G-quadruplex folding landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert C Monsen
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, 505 S. Hancock St., Louisville, Kentucky 40202, United States
| | - John O Trent
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, 505 S. Hancock St., Louisville, Kentucky 40202, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, 505 S. Hancock St., Louisville, Kentucky 40202, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville, 505 S. Hancock St., Louisville, Kentucky 40202, United States
| | - Jonathan B Chaires
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, 505 S. Hancock St., Louisville, Kentucky 40202, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, 505 S. Hancock St., Louisville, Kentucky 40202, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville, 505 S. Hancock St., Louisville, Kentucky 40202, United States
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24
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Bazzicalupi C, Bonardi A, Biver T, Ferraroni M, Papi F, Savastano M, Lombardi P, Gratteri P. Probing the Efficiency of 13-Pyridylalkyl Berberine Derivatives to Human Telomeric G-Quadruplexes Binding: Spectroscopic, Solid State and In Silico Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214061. [PMID: 36430540 PMCID: PMC9693123 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The interaction between the series of berberine derivatives 1-5 (NAX071, NAX120, NAX075, NAX077 and NAX079) and human telomeric G-quadruplexes (G4), which are able to inhibit the Telomerase enzyme's activity in malignant cells, was investigated. The derivatives bear a pyridine moiety connected by a hydrocarbon linker of varying length (n = 1-5, with n number of aliphatic carbon atoms) to the C13 position of the parent berberine. As for the G4s, both bimolecular 5'-TAGGGTTAGGGT-3' (Tel12) and monomolecular 5'-TAGGGTTAGGGTTAGGGTTAGGG-3' (Tel23) DNA oligonucleotides were considered. Spectrophotometric titrations, melting tests, X-ray diffraction solid state analysis and in silico molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were used to describe the different systems. The results were compared in search of structure-activity relationships. The analysis pointed out the formation of 1:1 complexes between Tel12 and all ligands, whereas both 1:1 and 2:1 ligand/G4 stoichiometries were found for the adduct formed by NAX071 (n = 1). Tel12, with tetrads free from the hindrance by the loop, showed a higher affinity. The details of the different binding geometries were discussed, highlighting the importance of H-bonds given by the berberine benzodioxole group and a correlation between the strength of binding and the hydrocarbon linker length. Theoretical (MD) and experimental (X-ray) structural studies evidence the possibility for the berberine core to interact with one or both G4 strands, depending on the constraints given by the linker length, thus affecting the G4 stabilization effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Bazzicalupi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Firenze, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.B.); (P.G.)
| | - Alessandro Bonardi
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling Cheminformatics & QSAR, Department NEUROFARBA—Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Section, University of Firenze, Via Ugo Schiff 6, 50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Tarita Biver
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi 13, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marta Ferraroni
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Francesco Papi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Firenze, Italy
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling Cheminformatics & QSAR, Department NEUROFARBA—Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Section, University of Firenze, Via Ugo Schiff 6, 50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Matteo Savastano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Paolo Lombardi
- Naxospharma srl, Via G. Di Vittorio 70, Novate Milanese, 20026 Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Gratteri
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling Cheminformatics & QSAR, Department NEUROFARBA—Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Section, University of Firenze, Via Ugo Schiff 6, 50019 Firenze, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.B.); (P.G.)
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Savva L, Fossépré M, Keramidas O, Themistokleous A, Rizeq N, Panagiotou N, Leclercq M, Nicolaidou E, Surin M, Hayes SC, Georgiades SN. Gaining Insights on the Interactions of a Class of Decorated (2-([2,2'-Bipyridin]-6-yl)phenyl)platinum Compounds with c-Myc Oncogene Promoter G-Quadruplex and Other DNA Structures. Chemistry 2022; 28:e202201497. [PMID: 35726630 PMCID: PMC9804160 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202201497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Organometallic molecules offer some of the most promising scaffolds for interaction with G-quadruplex nucleic acids. We report the efficient synthesis of a family of organoplatinum(II) complexes, featuring a 2-([2,2'-bipyridin]-6-yl)phenyl tridentate (N∧ N∧ C) ligand, that incorporates peripheral side-chains aiming at enhancing and diversifying its interaction capabilities. These include a di-isopropyl carbamoyl amide, a morpholine ethylenamide, two enantiomeric proline imides and an oxazole. The binding affinities of the Pt-complexes were evaluated via UV-vis and fluorescence titrations, against 5 topologically-distinct DNA structures, including c-myc G-quadruplex, two telomeric (22AG) G-quadruplexes, a duplex (ds26) and a single-stranded (polyT) DNA. All compounds exhibited binding selectivity in favour of c-myc, with association constants (Ka ) in the range of 2-5×105 M-1 , lower affinity for both folds of 22AG and for ds26 and negligible affinity for polyT. Remarkable emission enhancements (up to 200-fold) upon addition of excess DNA were demonstrated by a subset of the compounds with c-myc, providing a basis for optical selectivity, since optical response to all other tested DNAs was low. A c-myc DNA-melting experiment showed significant stabilizing abilities for all compounds, with the most potent binder, the morpholine-Pt-complex, exhibiting a ΔTm >30 °C, at 1 : 5 DNA-to-ligand molar ratio. The same study implied contributions of the diverse side-chains to helix stabilization. To gain direct evidence of the nature of the interactions, mixtures of c-myc with the four most promising compounds were studied via UV Resonance Raman (UVRR) spectroscopy, which revealed end-stacking binding mode, combined with interactions of side-chains with loop nucleobase residues. Docking simulations were conducted to provide insights into the binding modes for the same four Pt-compounds, suggesting that the binding preference for two alternative orientations of the c-myc G-quadruplex thymine 'cap' ('open' vs. 'closed'), as well as the relative contributions to affinity from end-stacking and H-bonding, are highly dependent on the nature of the interacting Pt-complex side-chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loukiani Savva
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
| | - Mathieu Fossépré
- Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel MaterialsUniversity of Mons – UMONS20 Place du ParcB-7000MonsBelgium
| | - Odysseas Keramidas
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
| | | | - Natalia Rizeq
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
| | - Nikos Panagiotou
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
| | - Maxime Leclercq
- Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel MaterialsUniversity of Mons – UMONS20 Place du ParcB-7000MonsBelgium
| | - Eliana Nicolaidou
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
| | - Mathieu Surin
- Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel MaterialsUniversity of Mons – UMONS20 Place du ParcB-7000MonsBelgium
| | - Sophia C. Hayes
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
| | - Savvas N. Georgiades
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of Cyprus1 Panepistimiou Avenue, Aglandjia2109NicosiaCyprus
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26
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Interface of G-quadruplex with both stabilizing and destabilizing ligands for targeting various diseases. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 219:414-427. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.07.248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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27
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Zhao H, Wong HY, Ji D, Lyu K, Kwok CK. Novel L-RNA Aptamer Controls APP Gene Expression in Cells by Targeting RNA G-Quadruplex Structure. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:30582-30594. [PMID: 35762921 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c06390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Guanine quadruplex (G4) structure is a four-stranded nucleic acid secondary structure motif with unique chemical properties and important biological roles. Amyloid precursor protein (APP) is an Alzheimer's disease (AD)-related gene, and recently, we reported the formation of RNA G4 (rG4) at the 3'UTR of APP mRNA and demonstrated its repressive role in translation. Herein, we apply rG4-SELEX to develop a novel L-RNA aptamer, L-Apt.8f, which binds to APP 3'UTR D-rG4 strongly with subnanomolar affinity. We structurally characterize the aptamer and find that it contains a thermostable and parallel G4 motif, and mutagenesis analysis identifies the key nucleotides that are involved in the target recognition. We also reveal that the L-Apt.8f-APP D-rG4 interaction is enantiomeric-, magnesium ion-, and potassium ion-dependent. Notably, L-Apt.8f preferentially recognizes APP rG4 over other structural motifs, and it can control the APP reporter gene and native transcript translation in cells. Our work introduces a novel strategy and reports a new L-aptamer candidate to target APP 3'UTR rG4 structure, which laid the foundation for further applying L-RNA as an important class of biomolecule for practical L-aptamer-based targeting and controlling of gene expression in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haizhou Zhao
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR 999077, China
| | - Hei Yuen Wong
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR 999077, China
| | - Danyang Ji
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR 999077, China
| | - Kaixin Lyu
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR 999077, China
| | - Chun Kit Kwok
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR 999077, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518057, China
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28
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Liu LY, Ma TZ, Zeng YL, Liu W, Mao ZW. Structural Basis of Pyridostatin and Its Derivatives Specifically Binding to G-Quadruplexes. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:11878-11887. [PMID: 35749293 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c04775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The nucleic acid G-quadruplex (G4) has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for a variety of diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disease. Among small-molecule G4-binders, pyridostatin (PDS) and its derivatives (e.g., PyPDS) exhibit high specificity to G4s, but the structural basis for their specific recognition of G4s remains unknown. Here, we presented two solution structures of PyPDS and PDS with a quadruplex-duplex hybrid. The structures indicate that the rigid aromatic rings of PyPDS/PDS linked by flexible amide bonds match adaptively with G-tetrad planes, enhancing π-π stacking and achieving specific recognition of G4s. The aliphatic amine side chains of PyPDS/PDS adjust conformation to interact with the phosphate backbone via hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions, increasing affinity for G4s. Moreover, the N-H of PyPDS/PDS amide bonds interacts with two O6s of G-tetrad guanines via hydrogen bonding, achieving a further increase in affinity for G4s, which is different from most G4 ligands. Our findings reveal from structural perspectives that the rational assembly of rigid and flexible structural units in a ligand can synergistically improve the selectivity and affinity for G4s through spatial selective and adaptive matching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu-Yi Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P. R. China
| | - Tian-Zhu Ma
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P. R. China
| | - You-Liang Zeng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P. R. China
| | - Wenting Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P. R. China
| | - Zong-Wan Mao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P. R. China
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29
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Zou T, Sato Y, Kaneyoshi S, Mano K, Yasukawa R, Nakano Y, Fujii S, Sato S, Takenaka S. Naphthalene Diimides Carrying Two β-Cyclodextrins Prefer Telomere RNA G-Quadruplex Recognition. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27134053. [PMID: 35807292 PMCID: PMC9268153 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27134053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Newly synthesized naphthalene diimide carrying two β-cyclodextrins (NDI-β-CyDs) showed improved specificity for the parallel G-quadruplex structure alongside the hybrid G-quadruplex structure. Specifically, the highest binding affinity of NDI-β-CyDs for the telomere RNA G-quadruplex was observed. The binding simulation indicated that β-cyclodextrins might be available for loop nucleobase inclusion under its complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Zou
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Fukuoka 804-8550, Japan; (T.Z.); (Y.S.); (S.K.); (K.M.); (R.Y.); (Y.N.)
| | - Yuka Sato
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Fukuoka 804-8550, Japan; (T.Z.); (Y.S.); (S.K.); (K.M.); (R.Y.); (Y.N.)
| | - Shuma Kaneyoshi
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Fukuoka 804-8550, Japan; (T.Z.); (Y.S.); (S.K.); (K.M.); (R.Y.); (Y.N.)
| | - Kota Mano
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Fukuoka 804-8550, Japan; (T.Z.); (Y.S.); (S.K.); (K.M.); (R.Y.); (Y.N.)
| | - Rui Yasukawa
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Fukuoka 804-8550, Japan; (T.Z.); (Y.S.); (S.K.); (K.M.); (R.Y.); (Y.N.)
| | - Yoshifumi Nakano
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Fukuoka 804-8550, Japan; (T.Z.); (Y.S.); (S.K.); (K.M.); (R.Y.); (Y.N.)
| | - Satoshi Fujii
- Department of Bioscience and Bioinformatics, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Fukuoka 820-8502, Japan;
| | - Shinobu Sato
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Fukuoka 804-8550, Japan; (T.Z.); (Y.S.); (S.K.); (K.M.); (R.Y.); (Y.N.)
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (S.T.)
| | - Shigeori Takenaka
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Fukuoka 804-8550, Japan; (T.Z.); (Y.S.); (S.K.); (K.M.); (R.Y.); (Y.N.)
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (S.T.)
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30
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Monsen RC, Maguire JM, DeLeeuw LW, Chaires JB, Trent JO. Drug discovery of small molecules targeting the higher-order hTERT promoter G-quadruplex. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270165. [PMID: 35709230 PMCID: PMC9202945 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA G-quadruplexes (G4s) are now widely accepted as viable targets in the pursuit of anticancer therapeutics. To date, few small molecules have been identified that exhibit selectivity for G4s over alternative forms of DNA, such as the ubiquitous duplex. We posit that the lack of current ligand specificity arises for multiple reasons: G4 atomic models are often small, monomeric, single quadruplex structures with few or no druggable pockets; targeting G-tetrad faces frequently results in the enrichment of extended electron-deficient polyaromatic end-pasting scaffolds; and virtual drug discovery efforts often under-sample chemical search space. We show that by addressing these issues we can enrich for non-standard molecular templates that exhibit high selectivity towards G4s over other forms of DNA. We performed an extensive virtual screen against the higher-order hTERT core promoter G4 that we have previously characterized, targeting 12 of its unique loop and groove pockets using libraries containing 40 million drug-like compounds for each screen. Using our drug discovery funnel approach, which utilizes high-throughput fluorescence thermal shift assay (FTSA) screens, microscale thermophoresis (MST), and orthogonal biophysical methods, we have identified multiple unique G4 binding scaffolds. We subsequently used two rounds of catalogue-based SAR to increase the affinity of a disubstituted 2-aminoethyl-quinazoline that stabilizes the higher-order hTERT G-quadruplex by binding across its G4 junctional sites. We show selectivity of its binding affinity towards hTERT is virtually unaffected in the presence of near-physiological levels of duplex DNA, and that this molecule downregulates hTERT transcription in breast cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert C. Monsen
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Jon M. Maguire
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Lynn W. DeLeeuw
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Jonathan B. Chaires
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- * E-mail: (JBC); (JOT)
| | - John O. Trent
- UofL Health Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- * E-mail: (JBC); (JOT)
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31
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Mendes E, Bahls B, Aljnadi IM, Paulo A. Indoloquinolines as scaffolds for the design of potent G-quadruplex ligands. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2022; 72:128862. [PMID: 35716866 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2022.128862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Indoloquinolines are natural alkaloids with known affinity to DNA and antiproliferative activity against bacteria, parasites, and cancer cells. Due to their non-chiral skeleton, their total synthesis is easy to achieve and throughout the years, many derivatives have been studied for their potential as drugs. Herein we review the indoloquinolines and bioisosters that have been designed, synthesised, and evaluated for their selective binding to G-quadruplex nucleic acid structures, as well as the reported effects in cancer cells. The data collected so far strongly suggest that indoloquinolines are good scaffolds for the development of drugs and probes targeting the G-quadruplex structures, but they also show that this scaffold is still underexplored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduarda Mendes
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, Lisbon 1649-003, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Bahls
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, Lisbon 1649-003, Portugal
| | - Israa M Aljnadi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, Lisbon 1649-003, Portugal
| | - Alexandra Paulo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, Lisbon 1649-003, Portugal.
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32
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Kumar S, Reddy Sannapureddi RK, Todankar CS, Ramanathan R, Biswas A, Sathyamoorthy B, Pradeepkumar PI. Bisindolylmaleimide Ligands Stabilize c-MYC G-Quadruplex DNA Structure and Downregulate Gene Expression. Biochemistry 2022; 61:1064-1076. [PMID: 35584037 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.2c00116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
G-Quadruplex (G4) structures play a pivotal role in diverse biological functions, including essential processes, such as telomere maintenance and gene regulation. G4 structures formed in functional regions of genomes are actively pursued toward therapeutics and are targeted by small-molecule ligands that alter their structure and/or stability. Herein, we report the synthesis of bisindolylmaleimide-based (BIM) ligands, which preferentially stabilize parallel G4 structures of c-MYC and c-KIT oncogenes over the telomeric h-RAS1 G4 and duplex DNAs. The preferential stabilization of parallel G4s with BIM ligands is further validated by the DNA polymerase stop assay, where stop products were only observed for templates containing the c-MYC G4 sequence. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) titration studies indicate that the lead ligand BIM-Pr1 forms a 2:1 complex with c-MYC G4 DNA with a KD of 38 ± 5 μM. The BIM ligand stacks at the 5' and 3' quartets, with molecular modeling and dynamics studies supporting the proposed binding mode. The ligand is cytotoxic to HeLa cells and downregulates c-MYC gene expression. Collectively, the results present bisindolylmaleimide scaffolds as novel and powerful G4 targeting agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satendra Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
| | | | - Chaitra S Todankar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - R Ramanathan
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Annyesha Biswas
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Bharathwaj Sathyamoorthy
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Bhopal 462066, India
| | - P I Pradeepkumar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
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33
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Liu L, Zhang W, Zhong MQ, Jia MH, Jiang F, Zhang Y, Xiao CD, Xiao X, Shen XC. Tetraphenylethene derivative that discriminates parallel G-quadruplexes. RSC Adv 2022; 12:14765-14775. [PMID: 35702216 PMCID: PMC9109478 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra01433e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
G-Quadruplex (G4), as a non-canonical nucleic acid secondary structure, has been proved to be prevalent in genomes and plays important roles in many biological processes. Ligands targeting G4, especially small-molecular fluorescent light-up probes with selectivity for special conformations, are essential for studying the relationship between G4 folding and the cellular response. However, their development still remains challenging but is attracting massive attention. Here, we synthesized a new tetraphenylethene derivative, namely TPE-B, as a parallel G4 probe. Fluorescence experiments showed that TPE-B could give out a strong fluorescence response to the G4 structure. Moreover, it gave a much higher fluorescence intensity response to parallel G4s than anti-parallel ones, which indicated that TPE-B could serve as a special tool for probing parallel G4s. The circular dichroism (CD) spectra and melting curves showed that TPE-B could selectively bind and stabilize parallel G4s without changing their topology. ESI-MS studies showed that TPE-B could bind to parallel G4 with a 1 : 1 stoichiometry. The gel staining results showed that TPE-B was a good candidate for probing parallel G4s. Altogether, the TPE-B molecule may serve as a promising new probe that can discriminate parallel G4s. A tetraphenylethene derivative: 1,1′,1′′,1′′′-(((ethene-1,1,2,2-tetrayltetrakis(benzene-4,1-diyl)) tetrakis(oxy)) tetrakis(butane-4,1-diyl)) tetrakis(4-(dimethylamino) pyridin-1-ium) bromide (TPE-B) has been designed as a fluorescent light-up probe with high selectivity for parallel G-quadruplexes![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, University Town Guian New District Guizhou 550025 P. R. China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Macrocyclic and Supramolecular Chemistry of Guizhou Province, Guizhou University Guiyang 550025 P. R. China
| | - Ming-Qing Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, University Town Guian New District Guizhou 550025 P. R. China
| | - Meng-Hao Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, University Town Guian New District Guizhou 550025 P. R. China
| | - Fei Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, University Town Guian New District Guizhou 550025 P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University Guiyang Guizhou 550001 P. R. China
| | - Chao-Da Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, University Town Guian New District Guizhou 550025 P. R. China .,The Key Laboratory of Optimal Utilization of Natural Medicine Resources, Guizhou Medical University, University Town Guian New District Guizhou 550025 P. R. China
| | - Xin Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Macrocyclic and Supramolecular Chemistry of Guizhou Province, Guizhou University Guiyang 550025 P. R. China
| | - Xiang-Chun Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, University Town Guian New District Guizhou 550025 P. R. China .,The Key Laboratory of Optimal Utilization of Natural Medicine Resources, Guizhou Medical University, University Town Guian New District Guizhou 550025 P. R. China
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34
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Umar MI, Chan CY, Kwok CK. Development of RNA G-quadruplex (rG4)-targeting L-RNA aptamers by rG4-SELEX. Nat Protoc 2022; 17:1385-1414. [PMID: 35444329 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-022-00679-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
RNA G-quadruplex (rG4)-SELEX is a method that generates L-RNA aptamers to target an rG4 structure of interest, which can be applied to inhibit G-quadruplex-mediated interactions that have important roles in gene regulation and function. Here we present a Protocol Extension substantially modifying an existing SELEX protocol to describe in detail the procedures involved in performing rG4-SELEX to identify rG4-specific binders that can effectively suppress rG4-peptide and rG4-protein associations. This Protocol Extension improves the speed of aptamer discovery and identification, offering a suite of techniques to characterize the aptamer secondary structure and monitor binding affinity and specificity, and demonstrating the utility of the L-RNA aptamer. The previous protocol mainly describes the identification of RNA aptamers against proteins of interest, whereas in this Protocol Extension we present the development of an unnatural RNA aptamer against an RNA structure of interest, with the potential to be applicable to other nucleic acid motifs or biomolecules. rG4-SELEX starts with a random D-RNA library incubated with the L-rG4 target of interest, followed by binding, washing and elution of the library. Enriched D-aptamer candidates are sequenced and structurally characterized. Then, the L-aptamer is synthesized and used for different applications. rG4-SELEX can be carried out by an experienced molecular biologist with a basic understanding of nucleic acids. The development of rG4-targeting L-RNA aptamers expands the current rG4 toolkit to explore innovative rG4-related applications, and opens new doors to discovering novel rG4 biology in the near future. The duration of each selection cycle as outlined in the protocol is ~2 d.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubarak I Umar
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,RNA Molecular Biology Group, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Chun-Yin Chan
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Institut für Chemische Epigenetik München (ICEM), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universtität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Chun Kit Kwok
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China. .,Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China.
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35
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Mendes E, Aljnadi IM, Bahls B, Victor BL, Paulo A. Major Achievements in the Design of Quadruplex-Interactive Small Molecules. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:300. [PMID: 35337098 PMCID: PMC8953082 DOI: 10.3390/ph15030300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Organic small molecules that can recognize and bind to G-quadruplex and i-Motif nucleic acids have great potential as selective drugs or as tools in drug target discovery programs, or even in the development of nanodevices for medical diagnosis. Hundreds of quadruplex-interactive small molecules have been reported, and the challenges in their design vary with the intended application. Herein, we survey the major achievements on the therapeutic potential of such quadruplex ligands, their mode of binding, effects upon interaction with quadruplexes, and consider the opportunities and challenges for their exploitation in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduarda Mendes
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.); (I.M.A.); (B.B.)
| | - Israa M. Aljnadi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.); (I.M.A.); (B.B.)
- Faculty of Sciences, BioISI, Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Bárbara Bahls
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.); (I.M.A.); (B.B.)
- Faculty of Sciences, BioISI, Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Bruno L. Victor
- Faculty of Sciences, BioISI, Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Alexandra Paulo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.Ulisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (E.M.); (I.M.A.); (B.B.)
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36
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Kang Y, Wei C. Highly selective turn-on red fluorescence probes for visualization of the G-quadruplexes DNA in living cells. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2022; 267:120518. [PMID: 34700155 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2021.120518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Studies on small molecule fluorescent probes for detecting G-quadruplexes DNA have bring about an extensive attention in recent years. In this paper, we designed and synthesized three benzothiazole derivatives named 2a-2c under moderate reaction conditions and investigated their interactions with DNA (single-stranded, duplex, i-motif and G-quadruplex) and distribution in living cell. Three compounds present a large Stokes shift (∼90 nm) and a weak red fluorescence emission, and they exhibit a good selectivity and sensitive turn-on fluorescence response for the promoter G-quadruplex DNA (bcl-2, c-myc and c-kit 2) and mitochondria G-quadruplex (KSS). The affinity of 2a and 2b with N-alkyl side chain group to DNA is stronger than that of 2c with an anion group, therefore, they also increase the stability of the G-quadruplex structure. 2b induces the conformational change of both bcl-2 and KSS G-quadruplexes, while all compounds induce the folding of bcl-2 from the coiled structure to the hybrid G-qrudruplex. Three compounds interact with the G-quadruplex DNA mainly by end-stacking mode. Furthermore, MTT assays and confocal fluorescence images show that these compounds can enter the living HepG2 cells with low cytotoxicity. 2a-2c are mainly located in the mitochondrion and interacted with mitochondria G-quadruplex DNA, while only weak fluorescence can be found in cell nucleus. In a word, 2a-2c can be implied in image of G-quadruplex DNA in living cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqiang Kang
- Institute of Molecular Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, PR China
| | - Chunying Wei
- Institute of Molecular Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, PR China.
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37
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Kang Y, Wei C. Crescent‐shaped carbazole derivatives as light‐up fluorescence probes for G‐quadruplex DNA and live cell imaging. Chem Biodivers 2022; 19:e202101030. [DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202101030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yongqiang Kang
- Shanxi University Institute of Molecular Science 92 Wucheng Road Taiyuan CHINA
| | - Chunying Wei
- Shanxi University Institute of Molecular Science No.92 Road Wucheng 030006 Taiyuan CHINA
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38
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Yan Y, Zhao D, Zhang Q, Chang YY, Liu M. A Thermophilic G-Quadruplex DNA/N-methylmesoporphyrin IX Sensor for Accurately Detecting Single Nucleotide Polymorphism. JOURNAL OF ANALYSIS AND TESTING 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s41664-021-00206-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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39
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Cadoni E, Pennati F, Muangkaew P, Elskens J, Madder A, Manicardi A. Synthesis and structure–activity relationship of peptide nucleic acid probes with improved interstrand-crosslinking abilities: application to biotin-mediated RNA-pulldown. RSC Chem Biol 2022; 3:1129-1143. [PMID: 36128507 PMCID: PMC9428673 DOI: 10.1039/d2cb00095d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
After optimization of interstrand crosslink reaction between furan-containing peptide nucleic acids and target oligonucleotides, the reversibility of the formed product is exploited for the pull-down of a sequence of interest from cell lysates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Cadoni
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-7, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Francesca Pennati
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-7, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Penthip Muangkaew
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-7, 9000 Gent, Belgium
- Organic Synthesis Research Unit, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Phayathai Road, Patumwan, 10330 Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Joke Elskens
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-7, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Annemieke Madder
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-7, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Alex Manicardi
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281-7, 9000 Gent, Belgium
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40
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Structured Waters Mediate Small Molecule Binding to G-Quadruplex Nucleic Acids. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 15:ph15010007. [PMID: 35056064 PMCID: PMC8781208 DOI: 10.3390/ph15010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of G-quadruplexes in human cancers is increasingly well-defined. Accordingly, G-quadruplexes can be suitable drug targets and many small molecules have been identified to date as G-quadruplex binders, some using computer-based design methods and co-crystal structures. The role of bound water molecules in the crystal structures of G-quadruplex-small molecule complexes has been analyzed in this study, focusing on the water arrangements in several G-quadruplex ligand complexes. One is the complex between the tetrasubstituted naphthalene diimide compound MM41 and a human intramolecular telomeric DNA G-quadruplex, and the others are in substituted acridine bimolecular G-quadruplex complexes. Bridging water molecules form most of the hydrogen-bond contacts between ligands and DNA in the parallel G-quadruplex structures examined here. Clusters of structured water molecules play essential roles in mediating between ligand side chain groups/chromophore core and G-quadruplex. These clusters tend to be conserved between complex and native G-quadruplex structures, suggesting that they more generally serve as platforms for ligand binding, and should be taken into account in docking and in silico studies.
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41
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Hu XX, Wang SQ, Gan SQ, Liu L, Zhong MQ, Jia MH, Jiang F, Xu Y, Xiao CD, Shen XC. A Small Ligand That Selectively Binds to the G-quadruplex at the Human Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Internal Ribosomal Entry Site and Represses the Translation. Front Chem 2021; 9:781198. [PMID: 34858949 PMCID: PMC8630693 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.781198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes are believed to have important biological functions, so many small molecules have been screened or developed for targeting G-quadruplexes. However, it is still a major challenge to find molecules that recognize specific G-quadruplexes. Here, by using a combination of surface plasmon resonance, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, circular dichroism, Western blot, luciferase assay, and reverse transcriptase stop assay, we observed a small molecule, namely, oxymatrine (OMT) that could selectively bind to the RNA G-quadruplex in 5′-untranslated regions (UTRs) of human vascular endothelial growth factor (hVEGF), but could not bind to other G-quadruplexes. OMT could selectively repress the translation of VEGF in cervical cancer cells. Furthermore, it could recognize VEGF RNA G-quadruplexes in special conformations. The results indicate that OMT may serve as a potentially special tool for studying the VEGF RNA G-quadruplex in cells and as a valuable scaffold for the design of ligands that recognize different G-quadruplexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Xia Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.,Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Sheng-Quan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Shi-Quan Gan
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Lei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Ming-Qing Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Meng-Hao Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Fei Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Division of Chemistry, Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Chao-Da Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.,The Key Laboratory of Optimal Utilization of Natural Medicine Resources, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiang-Chun Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.,The Key Laboratory of Optimal Utilization of Natural Medicine Resources, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
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42
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Miron CE, Chen M, Mergny JL, Petitjean A. Portrait of a Family of Highly Stabilizing and Selective Guanine Quadruplex Platinum(II)-Based Binders. Chemistry 2021; 28:e202103839. [PMID: 34862673 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202103839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The long-standing history of platinum coordination complexes in nucleic acid recognition attests to the unique suitability of such species for therapeutic applications. Here, we report the synthetic exploration and development of a family of di-imine ligands, and their platinum(II) complexes, elaborated on a 3-(2-pyridyl)-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]pyridine platform which, in its unsubstituted form, has recently been shown to display exceptional capabilities for guanine quadruplex (G4) targeting. The identification of facile, high-yielding synthetic methods for the derivatization of this platform for the incorporation of additional sites of interactions with guanine quadruplex loops and grooves, along with the optimization of platinum(II) complexation methods, are discussed. Gratifyingly, preliminary biophysical screening of this novel family of binders validates all but one family members as robust G4 binders and highlights enhanced selectivity for quadruplex versus duplex DNA compared to the parent compound. These results bear promise for practical developments based on this platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E Miron
- Department of Chemistry, Queen's University, 90 Bader Lane, Kingston, ON K7L3N6, Canada.,Department of Chemistry, McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke St. West, Montreal, QC H3A0B8, Canada
| | - Mickey Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Queen's University, 90 Bader Lane, Kingston, ON K7L3N6, Canada
| | - Jean-Louis Mergny
- Institut Européen de Chimie et Biologie, 2 rue Escarpit, F-33607, Pessac, France.,Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, École Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91128, Palaiseau cedex, France
| | - Anne Petitjean
- Department of Chemistry, Queen's University, 90 Bader Lane, Kingston, ON K7L3N6, Canada
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43
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Li J, Jin Y, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Su H. Detecting Pb 2+by a 'turn-on' fluorescence sensor based on DNA functionalized magnetic nanocomposites. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 33:075603. [PMID: 34399416 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ac1dd3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Sensitive and selective detection of the lead ion (Pb2+) plays an important role in terms of both human health and environmental protection, as the heavy metal is fairly ubiquitous and highly toxic. The highly stable fluorescence biosensor is composed of Fe3O4@TiO2core-shell nanocomposites, functionalized with a carboxyl fluorescein labeled DNA. The morphology, physical and chemical properties of the sensing nanomaterials were studied by transmission electron microscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy (FT-IR), x-ray powder diffraction and vibrating sample magnetometer. UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy were used to characterize the fluorescein functionalized magnetic nanoparticles. The performance of Pb2+detection displayed an excellent linearity (R2 = 0.995) in the range of 10-10to 5 × 10-9ppm with a detection limit of 10-10ppm, based on the optimization of the fabrication process and aptamers' specification. The fluorescence biosensor has an accurate response, excellent recoveries and high adsorbent capacities. It was successfully applied for the determination of Pb2+in contaminated water and serum samples; the detection of limit in both media were 10-10ppm. These features ensure the potential use of aptamer functionalized magnetic nanocomposites as a new class of non-toxic biocompatible sensors for biological and environmental applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, Beijing University of Chemical Technology (BUCT), 15 BeiSanhuan East Road, ChaoYang District, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Jin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, Beijing University of Chemical Technology (BUCT), 15 BeiSanhuan East Road, ChaoYang District, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaoqiang Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, Beijing University of Chemical Technology (BUCT), 15 BeiSanhuan East Road, ChaoYang District, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Yilin Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, Beijing University of Chemical Technology (BUCT), 15 BeiSanhuan East Road, ChaoYang District, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Haijia Su
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, Beijing University of Chemical Technology (BUCT), 15 BeiSanhuan East Road, ChaoYang District, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
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Zhang J, Wang Y, Wan L, Liu Y, Yi J, Lam SL, Guo P. A pH and Mg 2+-Responsive Molecular Switch Based on a Stable DNA Minidumbbell Bearing 5' and 3'-Overhangs. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:28263-28269. [PMID: 34723023 PMCID: PMC8552455 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c04346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Minidumbbell (MDB) is a non-B DNA structure of which the thermodynamic stability is sensitive to a chemical environment such as pH, serving as a potential structural motif in constructing DNA-based molecular switches. This work aims to design thermodynamically stable MDB structures bearing 5' and 3'-overhanging deoxyribonucleotides in order to examine the possibility of MDB to be functionalized. Via making use of 5-methylcytosine and adjusting the pH of solution to be acidic, MDBs bearing 1-nucleotide (nt) or 2-nt overhanging residues at the 5' and 3'-ends have been obtained. Based on one of the new MDB sequences, we have designed a molecular switch that could respond to dual inputs of pH and Mg2+. The MDB strand and its partner strand formed a duplex (the "ON" state) upon inputting pH 7 and Mg2+, whereas the duplex dissociated to restore the MDB structure (the "OFF" state) upon inputting pH 5 and EDTA. The demonstration on the ability of MDB to sustain 5' and 3'-overhanging residues and the construction of a pH and Mg2+-responsive molecular switch will extend the application of MDB structures in dynamic DNA nanotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiacheng Zhang
- School
of Biology and Biological Engineering, South
China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Yang Wang
- School
of Biology and Biological Engineering, South
China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Liqi Wan
- Department
of Chemistry, The Chinese University of
Hong Kong, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- South
China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School
of Molecular Science and Engineering, South
China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510640, China
| | - Jie Yi
- School
of Biology and Biological Engineering, South
China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
| | - Sik Lok Lam
- Department
of Chemistry, The Chinese University of
Hong Kong, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Pei Guo
- School
of Biology and Biological Engineering, South
China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China
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Wang KB, Dickerhoff J, Yang D. Solution Structure of Ternary Complex of Berberine Bound to a dGMP-Fill-In Vacancy G-Quadruplex Formed in the PDGFR-β Promoter. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:16549-16555. [PMID: 34586799 PMCID: PMC8626096 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c06200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The G-quadruplexes (G4s) formed in the PDGFR-β gene promoter are transcriptional modulators and amenable to small-molecule targeting. Berberine (BER), a clinically important natural isoquinoline alkaloid, has gained increasing attention due to its potential as anticancer drug. We previously showed that the PDGFR-β gene promoter forms a unique vacancy G4 (vG4) that can be filled in and stabilized by guanine metabolites, such as dGMP. Herein, we report the high-resolution NMR structure of a ternary complex of berberine bound to the dGMP-fill-in PDGFR-β vG4 in potassium solution. This is the first small-molecule complex structure of a fill-in vG4. This ternary complex has a 2:1:1 binding stoichiometry with a berberine molecule bound at each the 5'- and 3'-end of the 5'-dGMP-fill-in PDGFR-β vG4. Each berberine recruits the adjacent adenine residue from the 5'- or 3'-flanking sequence to form a "quasi-triad plane" that covers the external G-tetrad of the fill-in vG4, respectively. Significantly, berberine covers and stabilizes the fill-in dGMP. The binding of berberine involves both π-stacking and electrostatic interactions, and the fill-in dGMP is covered and well-protected by berberine. The NMR structure can guide rational design of berberine analogues that target the PDGFR-β vG4 or dGMP-fill-in vG4. Moreover, our structure provides a molecular basis for designing small-molecule guanine conjugates to target vG4s.
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Interaction of 9-Methoxyluminarine with Different G-Quadruplex Topologies: Fluorescence and Circular Dichroism Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910399. [PMID: 34638738 PMCID: PMC8508660 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The interactions of G-quadruplexes of different topologies with highly fluorescent 9-methoxyluminarine ligand 9-MeLM were investigated by fluorescence and circular dichroism spectroscopy. The results showed that 9-methoxyluminarine was able to interact and did not destabilize any investigated molecular targets. The studied compound was selectively quenched by parallel c-MYC G-quadruplex DNA, whereas hybrid and antiparallel G4 topology caused only a negligible decrease in the fluorescence of the ligand. A high decrease of fluorescence of the ligand after binding with c-MYC G-quadruplex suggests that this molecule can be used as a selective probe for parallel G-quadruplexes.
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47
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Müller D, Saha P, Panda D, Dash J, Schwalbe H. Insights from Binding on Quadruplex Selective Carbazole Ligands. Chemistry 2021; 27:12726-12736. [PMID: 34138492 PMCID: PMC8518889 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202101866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Polymorphic G-quadruplex (G4) secondary DNA structures have received increasing attention in medicinal chemistry owing to their key involvement in the regulation of the maintenance of genomic stability, telomere length homeostasis and transcription of important proto-oncogenes. Different classes of G4 ligands have been developed for the potential treatment of several human diseases. Among them, the carbazole scaffold with appropriate side chain appendages has attracted much interest for designing G4 ligands. Because of its large and rigid π-conjugation system and ease of functionalization at three different positions, a variety of carbazole derivatives have been synthesized from various natural or synthetic sources for potential applications in G4-based therapeutics and biosensors. Herein, we provide an updated close-up of the literatures on carbazole-based G4 ligands with particular focus given on their detailed binding insights studied by NMR spectroscopy. The structure-activity relationships and the opportunities and challenges of their potential applications as biosensors and therapeutics are also discussed. This review will provide an overall picture of carbazole ligands with remarkable G4 topological preference, fluorescence properties and significant bioactivity; portraying carbazole as a very promising scaffold for assembling G4 ligands with a range of novel functional applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Müller
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Chemical BiologyCenter for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance (BMRZ)Goethe University FrankfurtMax-von-Laue Strasse 7Frankfurt am Main60438Germany
| | - Puja Saha
- School of Chemical SciencesIndian Association for the Cultivation of ScienceJadavpurKolkata-700032India
| | - Deepanjan Panda
- School of Chemical SciencesIndian Association for the Cultivation of ScienceJadavpurKolkata-700032India
| | - Jyotirmayee Dash
- School of Chemical SciencesIndian Association for the Cultivation of ScienceJadavpurKolkata-700032India
| | - Harald Schwalbe
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Chemical BiologyCenter for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance (BMRZ)Goethe University FrankfurtMax-von-Laue Strasse 7Frankfurt am Main60438Germany
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Gudanis D, Zielińska K, Baranowski D, Kierzek R, Kozłowski P, Gdaniec Z. Impact of a Single Nucleotide Change or Non-Nucleoside Modifications in G-Rich Region on the Quadruplex-Duplex Hybrid Formation. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11081236. [PMID: 34439902 PMCID: PMC8392043 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper, a method to discriminate between two target RNA sequences that differ by one nucleotide only is presented. The method relies on the formation of alternative structures, i.e., quadruplex–duplex hybrid (QDH) and duplex with dangling ends (Dss), after hybridization of DNA or RNA G-rich oligonucleotides with target sequences containing 5′–GGGCUGG–3′ or 5′–GGGCGGG–3′ fragments. Using biophysical methods, we studied the effect of oligonucleotide types (DNA, RNA), non-nucleotide modifications (aliphatic linkers or abasic), and covalently attached G4 ligand on the ability of G-rich oligonucleotides to assemble a G-quadruplex motif. We demonstrated that all examined non-nucleotide modifications could mimic the external loops in the G-quadruplex domain of QDH structures without affecting their stability. Additionally, some modifications, in particular the presence of two abasic residues in the G-rich oligonucleotide, can induce the formation of non-canonical QDH instead of the Dss structure upon hybridization to a target sequence containing the GGGCUGG motif. Our results offer new insight into the sequential requirements for the formation of G-quadruplexes and provide important data on the effects of non-nucleotide modifications on G-quadruplex formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Gudanis
- Correspondence: (D.G.); (Z.G.); Tel.: +48-61-852-85-03 (ext. 1286) (D.G.)
| | | | | | | | | | - Zofia Gdaniec
- Correspondence: (D.G.); (Z.G.); Tel.: +48-61-852-85-03 (ext. 1286) (D.G.)
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Manoli F, Doria F, Colombo G, Zambelli B, Freccero M, Manet I. The Binding Pocket at the Interface of Multimeric Telomere G-quadruplexes: Myth or Reality? Chemistry 2021; 27:11707-11720. [PMID: 34152657 PMCID: PMC8456957 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202101486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Human telomeric DNA with hundreds of repeats of the 5'-TTAGGG-3' motif plays a crucial role in several biological processes. It folds into G-quadruplex (G4) structures and features a pocket at the interface of two contiguous G4 blocks. Up to now no structural NMR and crystallographic data are available for ligands interacting with contiguous G4s. Naphthalene diimide monomers and dyads were investigated as ligands of a dimeric G4 of human telomeric DNA comparing the results with those of the model monomeric G4. Time-resolved fluorescence, circular dichroism, isothermal titration calorimetry and molecular modeling were used to elucidate binding features. Ligand fluorescence lifetime and induced circular dichroism unveiled occupancy of the binding site at the interface. Thermodynamic parameters confirmed the hypothesis as they remarkably change for the dyad complexes of the monomeric and dimeric telomeric G4. The bi-functional ligand structure of the dyads is a fundamental requisite for binding at the G4 interface as only the dyads engage in complexes with 1 : 1 stoichiometry, lodging in the pocket at the interface and establishing multiple interactions with the DNA skeleton. In the absence of NMR and crystallographic data, our study affords important proofs of binding at the interface pocket and clues on the role played by the ligand structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Manoli
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF)National Research Council (CNR)Via P. Gobetti 10140129BolognaItaly
| | - Filippo Doria
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of PaviaV. le Taramelli 1027100PaviaItaly
| | - Giorgio Colombo
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of PaviaV. le Taramelli 1027100PaviaItaly
| | - Barbara Zambelli
- Department of Pharmacy and BiotechnologyUniversity of BolognaV. le Fanin 4040127BolognaItaly
| | - Mauro Freccero
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of PaviaV. le Taramelli 1027100PaviaItaly
| | - Ilse Manet
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF)National Research Council (CNR)Via P. Gobetti 10140129BolognaItaly
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Santos T, Salgado GF, Cabrita EJ, Cruz C. G-Quadruplexes and Their Ligands: Biophysical Methods to Unravel G-Quadruplex/Ligand Interactions. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:769. [PMID: 34451866 PMCID: PMC8401999 DOI: 10.3390/ph14080769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Progress in the design of G-quadruplex (G4) binding ligands relies on the availability of approaches that assess the binding mode and nature of the interactions between G4 forming sequences and their putative ligands. The experimental approaches used to characterize G4/ligand interactions can be categorized into structure-based methods (circular dichroism (CD), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography), affinity and apparent affinity-based methods (surface plasmon resonance (SPR), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and mass spectrometry (MS)), and high-throughput methods (fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-melting, G4-fluorescent intercalator displacement assay (G4-FID), affinity chromatography and microarrays. Each method has unique advantages and drawbacks, which makes it essential to select the ideal strategies for the biological question being addressed. The structural- and affinity and apparent affinity-based methods are in several cases complex and/or time-consuming and can be combined with fast and cheap high-throughput approaches to improve the design and development of new potential G4 ligands. In recent years, the joint use of these techniques permitted the discovery of a huge number of G4 ligands investigated for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Overall, this review article highlights in detail the most commonly used approaches to characterize the G4/ligand interactions, as well as the applications and types of information that can be obtained from the use of each technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago Santos
- CICS-UBI—Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal;
| | - Gilmar F. Salgado
- ARNA Laboratory, Université de Bordeaux, Inserm U1212, CNRS UMR 5320, IECB, 33607 Pessac, France;
| | - Eurico J. Cabrita
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal;
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Carla Cruz
- CICS-UBI—Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal;
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