1
|
Ulloa-Aguilar JM, Herrera Moro Huitron L, Benítez-Zeferino RY, Cerna-Cortes JF, García-Cordero J, León-Reyes G, Guzman-Bautista ER, Farfan-Morales CN, Reyes-Ruiz JM, Miranda-Labra RU, De Jesús-González LA, León-Juárez M. The Nucleolus and Its Interactions with Viral Proteins Required for Successful Infection. Cells 2024; 13:1591. [PMID: 39329772 PMCID: PMC11430610 DOI: 10.3390/cells13181591] [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: 08/03/2024] [Revised: 09/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Nuclear bodies are structures in eukaryotic cells that lack a plasma membrane and are considered protein condensates, DNA, or RNA molecules. Known nuclear bodies include the nucleolus, Cajal bodies, and promyelocytic leukemia nuclear bodies. These bodies are involved in the concentration, exclusion, sequestration, assembly, modification, and recycling of specific components involved in the regulation of ribosome biogenesis, RNA transcription, and RNA processing. Additionally, nuclear bodies have been shown to participate in cellular processes such as the regulation of transcription of the cell cycle, mitosis, apoptosis, and the cellular stress response. The dynamics and functions of these bodies depend on the state of the cell. It is now known that both DNA and RNA viruses can direct their proteins to nuclear bodies, causing alterations in their composition, dynamics, and functions. Although many of these mechanisms are still under investigation, it is well known that the interaction between viral and nuclear body proteins is necessary for the success of the viral infection cycle. In this review, we concisely describe the interaction between viral and nuclear body proteins. Furthermore, we focus on the role of the nucleolus in RNA virus infections. Finally, we discuss the possible implications of the interaction of viral proteins on cellular transcription and the formation/degradation of non-coding RNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Manuel Ulloa-Aguilar
- Laboratorio de Virología Perinatal y Diseño Molecular de Antígenos y Biomarcadores, Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (J.M.U.-A.); (L.H.M.H.); (R.Y.B.-Z.); (E.R.G.-B.)
- Posgrado en Biología Experimental, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud (DCBS), Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Mexico City 09310, Mexico
| | - Luis Herrera Moro Huitron
- Laboratorio de Virología Perinatal y Diseño Molecular de Antígenos y Biomarcadores, Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (J.M.U.-A.); (L.H.M.H.); (R.Y.B.-Z.); (E.R.G.-B.)
- Laboratorio de Microbiología Molecular, Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biologícas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11340, Mexico;
| | - Rocío Yazmin Benítez-Zeferino
- Laboratorio de Virología Perinatal y Diseño Molecular de Antígenos y Biomarcadores, Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (J.M.U.-A.); (L.H.M.H.); (R.Y.B.-Z.); (E.R.G.-B.)
- Laboratorio de Microbiología Molecular, Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biologícas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11340, Mexico;
| | - Jorge Francisco Cerna-Cortes
- Laboratorio de Microbiología Molecular, Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biologícas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 11340, Mexico;
| | - Julio García-Cordero
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City 07360, Mexico;
| | - Guadalupe León-Reyes
- Laboratorio de Nutrigenética y Nutrigenómica, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), Mexico City 14610, Mexico;
| | - Edgar Rodrigo Guzman-Bautista
- Laboratorio de Virología Perinatal y Diseño Molecular de Antígenos y Biomarcadores, Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (J.M.U.-A.); (L.H.M.H.); (R.Y.B.-Z.); (E.R.G.-B.)
| | - Carlos Noe Farfan-Morales
- Departamento de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana (UAM), Unidad Cuajimalpa, Mexico City 05348, Mexico;
| | - José Manuel Reyes-Ruiz
- Centro Médico Nacional “Adolfo Ruiz Cortines”, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), Veracruz 91897, Mexico;
| | - Roxana U. Miranda-Labra
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Mexico City 09310, Mexico;
| | | | - Moises León-Juárez
- Laboratorio de Virología Perinatal y Diseño Molecular de Antígenos y Biomarcadores, Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (J.M.U.-A.); (L.H.M.H.); (R.Y.B.-Z.); (E.R.G.-B.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tapescu I, Cherry S. DDX RNA helicases: key players in cellular homeostasis and innate antiviral immunity. J Virol 2024:e0004024. [PMID: 39212449 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00040-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA helicases are integral in RNA metabolism, performing important roles in cellular homeostasis and stress responses. In particular, the DExD/H-box (DDX) helicase family possesses a conserved catalytic core that binds structural features rather than specific sequences in RNA targets. DDXs have critical roles in all aspects of RNA metabolism including ribosome biogenesis, translation, RNA export, and RNA stability. Importantly, functional specialization within this family arises from divergent N and C termini and is driven at least in part by gene duplications with 18 of the 42 human helicases having paralogs. In addition to their key roles in the homeostatic control of cellular RNA, these factors have critical roles in RNA virus infection. The canonical RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) play pivotal roles in cytoplasmic sensing of viral RNA structures, inducing antiviral gene expression. Additional RNA helicases function as viral sensors or regulators, further diversifying the innate immune defense arsenal. Moreover, some of these helicases have been coopted by viruses to facilitate their replication. Altogether, DDX helicases exhibit functional specificity, playing intricate roles in RNA metabolism and host defense. This review will discuss the mechanisms by which these RNA helicases recognize diverse RNA structures in cellular and viral RNAs, and how this impacts RNA processing and innate immune responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iulia Tapescu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Biochemistry and Biophysics Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sara Cherry
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dai J, Jiang X, da Silva-Júnior EF, Du S, Liu X, Zhan P. Recent advances in the molecular design and applications of viral RNA-targeting antiviral modalities. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104074. [PMID: 38950729 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104074] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Pathogenic viruses are a profound threat to global public health, underscoring the urgent need for the development of efficacious antiviral therapeutics. The advent of RNA-targeting antiviral strategies has marked a significant paradigm shift in the management of viral infections, offering a potent means of control and potential cure. In this review, we delve into the cutting-edge progress in RNA-targeting antiviral agents, encompassing antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), small and bifunctional molecules. We provide an in-depth examination of their strategic molecular design and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action that confer their antiviral efficacy. By synthesizing recent findings, we shed light on the innovative potential of RNA-targeting approaches and their pivotal role in advancing the frontiers of antiviral drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaojiao Dai
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Xiangyi Jiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China
| | - Edeildo Ferreira da Silva-Júnior
- Biological and Molecular Chemistry Research Group, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, Lourival Melo Mota Avenue, AC. Simões Campus, 57072-970 Alagoas, Maceió, Brazil
| | - Shaoqing Du
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China.
| | - Xinyong Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China; China-Belgium Collaborative Research Center for Innovative Antiviral Drugs of Shandong Province, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China.
| | - Peng Zhan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China; China-Belgium Collaborative Research Center for Innovative Antiviral Drugs of Shandong Province, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen K, Zhai Y, Wang Y, Xu Z, Chen X, Zhang Y, Zhou Z, Zheng X, Lin F. H 2O 2 promotes photodynamic efficacy of TMPyP4 against ovarian cancer in vitro by downregulating HIF-1α expression. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117110. [PMID: 39002439 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117110] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT), employing photosensitizers to induce formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) for tumor elimination, is emerging as a promising treatment modality in oncology due to its unique benefits. However, the PDT application in ovarian cancer, the most prevalent and lethal type of gynecological malignancy with a severe hypoxic microenvironment, remains unknown. This study revealed that photosensitizer TMPyP4 exhibited enhanced efficacy under H2O2 stimulation, with minimal change in cytotoxicity compared to TMPyP4 alone. The results showed that H2O2 increased ROS production induced by TMPyP4, leading to exacerbated mitochondrial dysfunction and DNA damage, ultimately inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells. Mechanistically, H2O2 primarily enhanced the therapeutic efficacy of PDT with TMPyP4 against ovarian cancer cells by degrading HIF-1α, which subsequently modulated the HIF-1 signaling pathway, thereby alleviating the hypoxic environment in ovarian cancer cells. Our findings underscore the therapeutic potential of targeting HIF-1α within the hypoxic microenvironment for PDT in ovarian cancer and propose a novel integrated strategy for PDT treatment of this malignancy in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kejie Chen
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Yihui Zhai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Yuanqiu Wang
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Zichuang Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Xiaojian Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Yixin Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China; Wenzhou Medical University Renji College, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Zhengyi Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China; Wenzhou Medical University Renji College, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Xiaohui Zheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China.
| | - Feng Lin
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Liu W, He X, Zhu Y, Li Y, Wang Z, Li P, Pan J, Wang J, Chu B, Yang G, Zhang M, He Q, Li Y, Li W, Zhang C. Identification of a conserved G-quadruplex within the E165R of African swine fever virus (ASFV) as a potential antiviral target. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107453. [PMID: 38852886 PMCID: PMC11261444 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107453] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Identification of a conserved G-quadruplex in E165R of ASFVAfrican swine fever virus (ASFV) is a double-stranded DNA arbovirus with high transmissibility and mortality rates. It has caused immense economic losses to the global pig industry. Currently, no effective vaccines or medications are to combat ASFV infection. G-quadruplex (G4) structures have attracted increasing interest because of their regulatory role in vital biological processes. In this study, we identified a conserved G-rich sequence within the E165R gene of ASFV. Subsequently, using various methods, we verified that this sequence could fold into a parallel G4. In addition, the G4-stabilizers pyridostatin and 5,10,15,20-tetrakis-(N-methyl-4-pyridyl) porphin (TMPyP4) can bind and stabilize this G4 structure, thereby inhibiting E165R gene expression, and the inhibitory effect is associated with G4 formation. Moreover, the G4 ligand pyridostatin substantially impeded ASFV proliferation in Vero cells by reducing gene copy number and viral protein expression. These compelling findings suggest that G4 structures may represent a promising and novel antiviral target against ASFV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xinglin He
- National Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, China
| | - Yance Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaqin Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhihao Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Pengfei Li
- National Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiajia Pan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiang Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Beibei Chu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guoyu Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mengjia Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, China
| | - Qigai He
- National Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, China
| | - Yongtao Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Wentao Li
- National Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, China.
| | - Chao Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pávová M, Reyes-Gutiérrez PE, Kozák J, Dobiaš J, Yurenko Y, Lepšík M, Teplý F, Weber J. Helquat dyes targeting G-quadruplexes as a new class of anti-HIV-1 inhibitors. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6096. [PMID: 37055553 PMCID: PMC10102027 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33263-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The secondary structure of nucleic acids containing quartets of guanines, termed G-quadruplexes, is known to regulate the transcription of many genes. Several G-quadruplexes can be formed in the HIV-1 long terminal repeat promoter region and their stabilization results in the inhibition of HIV-1 replication. Here, we identified helquat-based compounds as a new class of anti-HIV-1 inhibitors that inhibit HIV-1 replication at the stage of reverse transcription and provirus expression. Using Taq polymerase stop and FRET melting assays, we have demonstrated their ability to stabilize G-quadruplexes in the HIV-1 long-terminal repeat sequence. Moreover, these compounds were not binding to the general G-rich region, but rather to G-quadruplex-forming regions. Finally, docking and molecular dynamics calculations indicate that the structure of the helquat core greatly affects the binding mode to the individual G-quadruplexes. Our findings can provide useful information for the further rational design of inhibitors targeting G-quadruplexes in HIV-1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Pávová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Paul Eduardo Reyes-Gutiérrez
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Kozák
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Juraj Dobiaš
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Yevgen Yurenko
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Lepšík
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Filip Teplý
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Weber
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, 160 00, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Roy SS, Sharma S, Rizvi ZA, Sinha D, Gupta D, Rophina M, Sehgal P, Sadhu S, Tripathy MR, Samal S, Maiti S, Scaria V, Sivasubbu S, Awasthi A, Harshan KH, Jain S, Chowdhury S. G4-binding drugs, chlorpromazine and prochlorperazine, repurposed against COVID-19 infection in hamsters. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1133123. [PMID: 37006620 PMCID: PMC10061221 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1133123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has caused millions of infections and deaths worldwide. Limited treatment options and the threat from emerging variants underline the need for novel and widely accessible therapeutics. G-quadruplexes (G4s) are nucleic acid secondary structures known to affect many cellular processes including viral replication and transcription. We identified heretofore not reported G4s with remarkably low mutation frequency across >5 million SARS-CoV-2 genomes. The G4 structure was targeted using FDA-approved drugs that can bind G4s - Chlorpromazine (CPZ) and Prochlorperazine (PCZ). We found significant inhibition in lung pathology and lung viral load of SARS-CoV-2 challenged hamsters when treated with CPZ or PCZ that was comparable to the widely used antiviral drug Remdesivir. In support, in vitro G4 binding, inhibition of reverse transcription from RNA isolated from COVID-infected humans, and attenuated viral replication and infectivity in Vero cell cultures were clear in case of both CPZ and PCZ. Apart from the wide accessibility of CPZ/PCZ, targeting relatively invariant nucleic acid structures poses an attractive strategy against viruses like SARS-CoV-2, which spread fast and accumulate mutations quickly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuvra Shekhar Roy
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Shalu Sharma
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Zaigham Abbas Rizvi
- Immuno-biology Laboratory, Infection and Immunology Centre, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Dipanjali Sinha
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Divya Gupta
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, 500007, India
| | - Mercy Rophina
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Paras Sehgal
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Srikanth Sadhu
- Immuno-biology Laboratory, Infection and Immunology Centre, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Manas Ranjan Tripathy
- Immuno-biology Laboratory, Infection and Immunology Centre, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Sweety Samal
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, 411008, India
| | - Souvik Maiti
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
- CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, 121001, India
| | - Vinod Scaria
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Sridhar Sivasubbu
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Amit Awasthi
- Immuno-biology Laboratory, Infection and Immunology Centre, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Krishnan H. Harshan
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, 500007, India
| | - Sanjeev Jain
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, 560029, India
| | - Shantanu Chowdhury
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
- *Correspondence: Shantanu Chowdhury,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ruggiero E, Richter SN. Targeting G-quadruplexes to achieve antiviral activity. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2023; 79:129085. [PMID: 36423824 PMCID: PMC9760570 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2022.129085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
With the emergence of new viruses in the human population and the fast mutation rates of existing viruses, new antiviral targets and compounds are needed. Most existing antiviral drugs are active against proteins of a handful of viruses. Most of these proteins in the end affect viral nucleic acid processing, but direct nucleic acid targeting is less represented due to the difficulty of selectively acting at the nucleic acid of interest. Recently, nucleic acids have been shown to fold in structures alternative to the classic double helix and Watson and Crick base-pairing. Among these non-canonical structures, G-quadruplexes (G4s) have attracted interest because of their key biological roles that are being discovered. Molecules able to selectively target G4s have been developed and since G4s have been investigated as targets in several human pathologies, including viral infections. Here, after briefly introducing viruses, G4s and the G4-binding molecules with antiviral properties, we comment on the mechanisms at the base of the antiviral activity reported for G4-binding molecules. Understanding how G4-ligands act in infected cells will possibly help designing and developing next-generation antiviral drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara N Richter
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Italy; Microbiology and Virology Unit, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lv L, Zhang L. G-quadruplexes in the monkeypox virus are potential antiviral targets. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28299. [PMID: 36366981 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is a member of Orthopoxvirus in the Poxviridae family, causing a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The number of cases and geographic range has increased significantly in 2022. Identification of MPXV-specific therapeutic targets is urgent. G-quadruplex (GQ) secondary structures attract great attention as potential targets for antiviral strategy. Whether GQs are present in the MPXV genome remains inconclusive. In this study, we aim to characterize the GQs encoded by MPXV. Through a series of biophysical experiments, we characterized the formation potential of MPXV-encoded GQs and evaluated the binding and stabilization abilities of GQ ligands including BRACO-19, pyridostatin, and TMPyP4 to GQs encoded by MPXV. Moreover, GQ ligands suppressed the gene transcription of MPXV sequences containing GQ. BRACO-19 and TMPyP4 were able to inhibit vaccinia virus replication. We demonstrated the existence of MPXV GQ and reinforced the idea that GQs could be novel antiviral targets. Targeting these GQ sequences with GQ-binding molecules may represent a new approach for MPXV therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Lv
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Institute of Infection and Immunity, Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Leiliang Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Institute of Infection and Immunity, Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Qin G, Zhao C, Yang J, Wang Z, Ren J, Qu X. Unlocking G-Quadruplexes as Targets and Tools against COVID-19. CHINESE J CHEM 2022; 41:CJOC202200486. [PMID: 36711116 PMCID: PMC9874442 DOI: 10.1002/cjoc.202200486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The applicability of G-quadruplexes (G4s) as antiviral targets, therapeutic agents and diagnostic tools for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is currently being evaluated, which has drawn the extensive attention of the scientific community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, research in this field is rapidly accumulating. In this review, we summarize the latest achievements and breakthroughs in the use of G4s as antiviral targets, therapeutic agents and diagnostic tools for COVID-19, particularly using G4 ligands. Finally, strength and weakness regarding G4s in anti-SARS-CoV-2 field are highlighted for prospective future projects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geng Qin
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource UtilizationChangchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of ScienceChangchun, Jilin130022China
- University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026China
| | - Chuanqi Zhao
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource UtilizationChangchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of ScienceChangchun, Jilin130022China
- University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026China
| | - Jie Yang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource UtilizationChangchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of ScienceChangchun, Jilin130022China
- University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource UtilizationChangchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of ScienceChangchun, Jilin130022China
- University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026China
| | - Jinsong Ren
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource UtilizationChangchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of ScienceChangchun, Jilin130022China
- University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026China
| | - Xiaogang Qu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource UtilizationChangchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of ScienceChangchun, Jilin130022China
- University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Characterization of G-Quadruplexes in Enterovirus A71 Genome and Their Interaction with G-Quadruplex Ligands. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0046022. [PMID: 35446122 PMCID: PMC9241713 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00460-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Human enteroviruses cause many diseases; however, there is no specific therapeutic drug. G-quadruplex is an atypical secondary structure formed in the guanine rich region of DNA or RNA, which can exist in the viral genome. The different positions of G-quadruplex play an important role in the regulation of virus replication and infection. Whether G-quadruplexes are present in human enteroviruses is unknown. In current study, we analyzed the potential quadruplex forming sequences of human enteroviruses, especially EV-A71 virus, which causes hand, foot, and mouth disease. The results showed that there were a certain number of potential quadruplex-forming sequences in human enteroviruses. Through a variety of experimental methods, we evaluated the formation potential of EV-A71 encoded G-quadruplex and analyzed the binding ability of G-quadruplex ligands, including BRACO-19, pyridostatin and TMPyP4 to virus encoded G-quadruplexes. G-quadruplex ligands BRACO-19, PDS and TMPyP4 could inhibit the transcription of constructs containing EV-A71 G-quadruplex sequences. Moreover, we found that BRACO-19 was able to inhibit the replication of EV-A71, suggesting that targeting G-quadruplexes in EV-A71 genome by G-quadruplex ligands could be a novel antiviral way against EV-A71. Our finding not only uncovered the G-quadruplexes in human enteroviruses, but also would provide a new strategy for human enteroviruses therapy. IMPORTANCE G-quadruplex is a stable nucleic acid secondary structure formed by the folding of guanine rich nucleic acid. The important regulatory function of G-quadruplex makes it an attractive target of antiviral effect. Human enteroviruses cause a variety of human diseases, including common cold, nervous system diseases, cardiovascular damage, and diabetes. Enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) is one of pathogens causing hand, foot, and mouth disease; however, whether G-quadruplexes are present in the genomes of human enteroviruses is unknown. The function of G-quadruplexes in the EV-A71 genomes is not clear. We predicted and characterized G-quadruplex sequences in EV-A71. G-quadruplex ligands were identified to stabilize EV-A71 G-quadruplexes with high affinities. We also demonstrated G-quadruplex ligand BRACO-19 inhibited EV-A71 replication. Our studies provide a framework for targeting G-quadruplexes in the enteroviruses genome, which will be a new way to develop antiviral agents against human enteroviruses.
Collapse
|