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Carvelli L, Hermo L, O’Flaherty C, Oko R, Pshezhetsky AV, Morales CR. Effects of Heparan sulfate acetyl-CoA: Alpha-glucosaminide N-acetyltransferase (HGSNAT) inactivation on the structure and function of epithelial and immune cells of the testis and epididymis and sperm parameters in adult mice. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292157. [PMID: 37756356 PMCID: PMC10529547 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Heparan sulfate (HS), an abundant component of the apical cell surface and basement membrane, belongs to the glycosaminoglycan family of carbohydrates covalently linked to proteins called heparan sulfate proteoglycans. After endocytosis, HS is degraded in the lysosome by several enzymes, including heparan-alpha-glucosaminide N-acetyltransferase (HGSNAT), and in its absence causes Mucopolysaccharidosis III type C (Sanfilippo type C). Since endocytosis occurs in epithelial cells of the testis and epididymis, we examined the morphological effects of Hgsnat inactivation in these organs. In the testis, Hgsnat knockout (Hgsnat-Geo) mice revealed statistically significant decrease in tubule and epithelial profile area of seminiferous tubules. Electron microscopy (EM) analysis revealed cross-sectional tubule profiles with normal and moderately to severely altered appearances. Abnormalities in Sertoli cells and blood-testis barrier and the absence of germ cells in some tubules were noted along with altered morphology of sperm, sperm motility parameters and a reduction in fertilization rates in vitro. Along with quantitatively increased epithelial and tubular profile areas in the epididymis, EM demonstrated significant accumulations of electrolucent lysosomes in the caput-cauda regions that were reactive for cathepsin D and prosaposin antibodies. Lysosomes with similar storage materials were also found in basal, clear and myoid cells. In the mid/basal region of the epithelium of caput-cauda regions of KO mice, large vacuolated cells, unreactive for cytokeratin 5, a basal cell marker, were identified morphologically as epididymal mononuclear phagocytes (eMPs). The cytoplasm of the eMPs was occupied by a gigantic lysosome suggesting an active role of these cells in removing debris from the epithelium. Some eMPs were found in proximity to T-lymphocytes, a feature of dendritic cells. Taken together, our results reveal that upon Hgsnat inactivation, morphological alterations occur to the testis affecting sperm morphology and motility parameters and abnormal lysosomes in epididymal epithelial cells, indicative of a lysosomal storage disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Carvelli
- IHEM-CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Louis Hermo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Cristian O’Flaherty
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Surgery (Urology Division), McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Richard Oko
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Alexey V. Pshezhetsky
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Sainte-Justine University Hospital Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Carlos R. Morales
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Hogwood J, Gray E, Mulloy B. Heparin, Heparan Sulphate and Sepsis: Potential New Options for Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:271. [PMID: 37259415 PMCID: PMC9959362 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is a life-threatening hyperreaction to infection in which excessive inflammatory and immune responses cause damage to host tissues and organs. The glycosaminoglycan heparan sulphate (HS) is a major component of the cell surface glycocalyx. Cell surface HS modulates several of the mechanisms involved in sepsis such as pathogen interactions with the host cell and neutrophil recruitment and is a target for the pro-inflammatory enzyme heparanase. Heparin, a close structural relative of HS, is used in medicine as a powerful anticoagulant and antithrombotic. Many studies have shown that heparin can influence the course of sepsis-related processes as a result of its structural similarity to HS, including its strong negative charge. The anticoagulant activity of heparin, however, limits its potential in treatment of inflammatory conditions by introducing the risk of bleeding and other adverse side-effects. As the anticoagulant potency of heparin is largely determined by a single well-defined structural feature, it has been possible to develop heparin derivatives and mimetic compounds with reduced anticoagulant activity. Such heparin mimetics may have potential for use as therapeutic agents in the context of sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Hogwood
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Blanche Lane, South Mimms EN6 3QG, UK
| | - Elaine Gray
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King’s College London, Stamford St., London SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Barbara Mulloy
- Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King’s College London, Stamford St., London SE1 9NH, UK
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3
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Kardeby C, Evans A, Campos J, Al-Wahaibi AM, Smith CW, Slater A, Martin EM, Severin S, Brill A, Pejler G, Sun Y, Watson SP. Heparin and heparin proteoglycan-mimetics activate platelets via PEAR1 and PI3Kβ. J Thromb Haemost 2023; 21:101-116. [PMID: 36695374 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtha.2022.10.008] [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] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Platelet endothelial aggregation receptor 1 (PEAR1) is a single-transmembrane orphan receptor primarily expressed on platelets and endothelial cells. Genetic variants of PEAR1 have repeatedly and independently been identified to be associated with cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease. OBJECTIVES We have identified sulfated fucoidans and their mimetics as ligands for PEAR1 and proposed that its endogenous ligand is a sulfated proteoglycan. The aim of this study was to test this hypothesis. METHODS A heparin proteoglycan-mimetic (HPGM) was created by linking unfractionated heparin (UFH) to albumin. The ability of the HPGM, UFH and selectively desulfated heparins to stimulate platelet aggregation and protein phosphorylation was investigated. Nanobodies against the 12th to 13th epidermal growth factor-like repeat of PEAR1 and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) isoform-selective inhibitors were tested for the inhibition of platelet activation. RESULTS We show that HPGM, heparin conjugated to an albumin protein core, stimulates aggregation and phosphorylation of PEAR1 in washed platelets. Platelet aggregation was abolished by an anti-PEAR1 nanobody, Nb138. UFH stimulated platelet aggregation in washed platelets, but desulfated UFH did not. Furthermore, HPGM, but not UFH, stimulated maximal aggregation in platelet-rich plasma. However, both HPGM and UFH increased integrin αIIbβ3 activation in whole blood. By using PI3K isoform-selective inhibitors, we show that PEAR1 activates PI3Kβ, leading to Akt phosphorylation. CONCLUSION Our findings reveal that PEAR1 is a receptor for heparin and HPGM and that PI3Kβ is a key signaling molecule downstream of PEAR1 in platelets. These findings may have important implications for our understanding of the role of PEAR1 in cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Kardeby
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Alice Evans
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Joana Campos
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Afraa Moosa Al-Wahaibi
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Christopher W Smith
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alexandre Slater
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Eleyna M Martin
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sonia Severin
- INSERM U1297 and Paul Sabatier University, Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases, Toulouse, France
| | - Alexander Brill
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gunnar Pejler
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Yi Sun
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham, Midlands, UK
| | - Steve P Watson
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham, Midlands, UK
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Furevi A, Ruda A, Angles d’Ortoli T, Mobarak H, Ståhle J, Hamark C, Fontana C, Engström O, Apostolica P, Widmalm G. Complete 1H and 13C NMR chemical shift assignments of mono-to tetrasaccharides as basis for NMR chemical shift predictions of oligo- and polysaccharides using the computer program CASPER. Carbohydr Res 2022; 513:108528. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carres.2022.108528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Sharma K, Cummock J, Maertens P. Acute Arterial Ischemic Stroke in a Treated Child with Hunter's Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC NEUROLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1722211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AbstractEnzyme replacement therapy (ERT) has limited therapeutic effects on neurologic, skeletal, and cardiovascular pathophysiology. We report an acute right-sided flaccid hemiparesis in an 11-year-old boy with the severe neuronopathic phenotype of Hunter's syndrome who was receiving weekly idursulfase ERT. Due to his psychomotor regression and epilepsy, his presentation to the hospital was delayed. Computed tomography scan of brain showed no acute changes or hemorrhage. Stroke code was not called as patient was already outside of the time window for tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) therapy. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed diffuse cortical and deep atrophy consistent with his baseline neurological status and restricted diffusion in the territory of the left-middle cerebral artery (MCA) consistent with recent infarction. T1-weighted MRI revealed low signal intensity of the left insular cortex, as well as volume loss, consistent with previous undiagnosed stroke in the same vascular territory. In addition, MR angiogram (MRA) demonstrated left terminal M1 segment MCA occlusion. Echocardiogram showed aortic root dilation and moderate aortic valve insufficiency. Patient was also noted to have bacteremia related to port infection. ERT is limited by blood–brain barrier and the underlying glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) extracellular tissue accumulation which produces a proinflammatory state. GAG and bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) are known to activate toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4). GAGs released in the extracellular space of intracranial vessels induce inflammation by activating the TLR-4 pathway which is exacerbated by bacterial LPS contributing to focal arteritis. Our case suggests the importance of GAGs in the activation of the TLR-4 pathway as a cause of stroke in Hunter's syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamal Sharma
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care, Department of Pediatrics, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Alabama, United States
| | - Joshua Cummock
- Department of Pediatrics, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Alabama, United States
| | - Paul Maertens
- Department of Neurology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Alabama, United States
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Berdiaki A, Neagu M, Giatagana EM, Kuskov A, Tsatsakis AM, Tzanakakis GN, Nikitovic D. Glycosaminoglycans: Carriers and Targets for Tailored Anti-Cancer Therapy. Biomolecules 2021; 11:395. [PMID: 33800172 PMCID: PMC8001210 DOI: 10.3390/biom11030395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is composed of cancerous, non-cancerous, stromal, and immune cells that are surrounded by the components of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), natural biomacromolecules, essential ECM, and cell membrane components are extensively altered in cancer tissues. During disease progression, the GAG fine structure changes in a manner associated with disease evolution. Thus, changes in the GAG sulfation pattern are immediately correlated to malignant transformation. Their molecular weight, distribution, composition, and fine modifications, including sulfation, exhibit distinct alterations during cancer development. GAGs and GAG-based molecules, due to their unique properties, are suggested as promising effectors for anticancer therapy. Considering their participation in tumorigenesis, their utilization in drug development has been the focus of both industry and academic research efforts. These efforts have been developing in two main directions; (i) utilizing GAGs as targets of therapeutic strategies and (ii) employing GAGs specificity and excellent physicochemical properties for targeted delivery of cancer therapeutics. This review will comprehensively discuss recent developments and the broad potential of GAG utilization for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Berdiaki
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (A.B.); (E.-M.G.); (G.N.T.)
| | - Monica Neagu
- Department of Immunology, Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Eirini-Maria Giatagana
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (A.B.); (E.-M.G.); (G.N.T.)
| | - Andrey Kuskov
- Department of Technology of Chemical Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Substances, D. Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia, 125047 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Aristidis M. Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - George N. Tzanakakis
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (A.B.); (E.-M.G.); (G.N.T.)
- Laboratory of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dragana Nikitovic
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (A.B.); (E.-M.G.); (G.N.T.)
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Huang H, Mao J, Liang Q, Lin J, Jiang L, Liu S, Sharp JS, Wei Z. Structural analysis of glycosaminoglycans from Oviductus ranae. Glycoconj J 2021; 38:25-33. [PMID: 33411075 DOI: 10.1007/s10719-020-09962-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Oviductus ranae (O.ran.) has been widely used as a tonic and a traditional animal-based Chinese medicine. O.ran. extracts have been reported to have numerous biological activities, including activities that are often associated with mammalian glycosaminoglycans such as anti-inflammatory, antiosteoperotic, and anti-asthmatic. Glycosaminoglycans are complex linear polysaccharides ubiquitous in mammals that possess a wide range of biological activities. However, their presence and possible structural characteristics within O.ran. were previously unknown. In this study, glycosaminoglycans were isolated from O.ran. and their disaccharide compositions were analyzed by liquid chromatography-ion trap/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-MS-ITTOF). Heparan sulfate (HS)/heparin (HP), chondroitin sulfate (CS)/dermatan sulfate (DS) and hyaluronic acid (HA) were detected in O.ran. with varied disaccharide compositions. HS species contain highly acetylated disaccharides, and have various structures in their constituent chains. CS/DS chains also possess a heterogeneous structure with different sulfation patterns and densities. This novel structural information could help clarify the possible involvement of these polysaccharides in the biological activities of O.ran..
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyue Huang
- Institute of Glycobiochemistry, National Engineering Research Centre of Chemical Fertilizer Catalyst, Fu Zhou University, Fu Zhou, 350002, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Mao
- Institute of Glycobiochemistry, National Engineering Research Centre of Chemical Fertilizer Catalyst, Fu Zhou University, Fu Zhou, 350002, People's Republic of China
| | - Quntao Liang
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Fu Zhou University, Fu Zhou, 350002, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianghui Lin
- Institute of Glycobiochemistry, National Engineering Research Centre of Chemical Fertilizer Catalyst, Fu Zhou University, Fu Zhou, 350002, People's Republic of China
| | - Lilong Jiang
- Institute of Glycobiochemistry, National Engineering Research Centre of Chemical Fertilizer Catalyst, Fu Zhou University, Fu Zhou, 350002, People's Republic of China
| | - Shutao Liu
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Fu Zhou University, Fu Zhou, 350002, People's Republic of China
| | - Joshua S Sharp
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, 38655, USA
| | - Zheng Wei
- Institute of Glycobiochemistry, National Engineering Research Centre of Chemical Fertilizer Catalyst, Fu Zhou University, Fu Zhou, 350002, People's Republic of China.
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Kardeby C, Damaskinaki FN, Sun Y, Watson SP. Is the endogenous ligand for PEAR1 a proteoglycan: clues from the sea. Platelets 2020; 32:779-785. [PMID: 33356751 DOI: 10.1080/09537104.2020.1863938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Platelet Endothelial Aggregation Receptor 1 (PEAR1) is an orphan receptor of unknown function which mediates powerful activation of platelets and endothelial cells in response to crosslinking by antibodies and sulfated polysaccharides belonging to the dextran and fucoidan families. PEAR1 is a single transmembrane protein composed of 15 epidermal growth factor-like repeat sequences and with a conserved binding motif, YXXM, which when phosphorylated binds to phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K). The 13th of the repeats has a heparin-binding sequence that is the site of interaction with the sulfated fucoidans and the only known endogenous ligand FcεRIα. Crosslinking of PEAR1 drives Src family kinase phosphorylation of the cytosolic tail leading to binding and activation of PI3K. In this Opinion Article, we summarize the literature on PEAR1 expression, structure and signaling, and the search for further endogenous ligands. We highlight one article in which phosphorylation of a 150 kDa platelet protein by heparin-containing ligands has been reported and propose that PEAR1 is a receptor for one or more glycosaminoglycan-conjugated proteins (proteoglycans). The up-regulation of PEAR1 at sites of inflammation in the vasculature and its role in angiogenesis suggests a role in the interplay of inflammation, platelets, coagulation, and thromboinflammation. We speculate that this may explain the link between single nucleotide variants in PEAR1 and cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Kardeby
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK
| | - Foteini-Nafsika Damaskinaki
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK.,Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, East Midlands, UK.,Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham, The Midlands, UK
| | - Yi Sun
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK.,Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham, The Midlands, UK
| | - Stephen P Watson
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, West Midlands, UK.,Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham, The Midlands, UK
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9
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Receptor tyrosine kinases and heparan sulfate proteoglycans: Interplay providing anticancer targeting strategies and new therapeutic opportunities. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 178:114084. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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10
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Vlodavsky I, Sanderson RD, Ilan N. Non-Anticoagulant Heparins as Heparanase Inhibitors. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1221:493-522. [PMID: 32274724 PMCID: PMC7142274 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-34521-1_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The chapter will review early and more recent seminal contributions to the discovery and characterization of heparanase and non-anticoagulant heparins inhibiting its peculiar enzymatic activity. Indeed, heparanase displays a unique versatility in degrading heparan sulfate chains of several proteoglycans expressed in all mammalian cells. This endo-β-D-glucuronidase is overexpressed in cancer, inflammation, diabetes, atherosclerosis, nephropathies and other pathologies. Starting from known low- or non-anticoagulant heparins, the search for heparanase inhibitors evolved focusing on structure-activity relationship studies and taking advantage of new chemical-physical analytical methods which have allowed characterization and sequencing of polysaccharide chains. New methods to screen heparanase inhibitors and to evaluate their mechanism of action and in vivo activity in experimental models prompted their development. New non-anticoagulant heparin derivatives endowed with anti-heparanase activity are reported. Some leads are under clinical evaluation in the oncology field (e.g., acute myeloid leukemia, multiple myeloma, pancreatic carcinoma) and in other pathological conditions (e.g., sickle cell disease, malaria, labor arrest).
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Affiliation(s)
- Israel Vlodavsky
- Technion Integrated Cancer Center (TICC) Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Haifa Israel
| | - Ralph D. Sanderson
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Neta Ilan
- Technion Integrated Cancer Center (TICC) Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Haifa Israel
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Du J, Liu S, Liang Q, Lin J, Jiang L, Chen F, Wei Z. Analysis of Heparan sulfate/heparin from Colla corii asini by liquid chromatography-electrospray ion trap mass spectrometry. Glycoconj J 2019; 36:211-218. [DOI: 10.1007/s10719-019-09868-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Taylor SL, Hogwood J, Guo W, Yates EA, Turnbull JE. By-Products of Heparin Production Provide a Diverse Source of Heparin-like and Heparan Sulfate Glycosaminoglycans. Sci Rep 2019; 9:2679. [PMID: 30804383 PMCID: PMC6389988 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-39093-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Global production of pharmaceutical heparin (Hp) is increasing, and the production process from raw mucosal material results in large amounts of waste by-products. These contain lower sulfated Hp-like and heparan sulfate (HS), as well as other glycosaminoglycans, which are bioactive entities with pharmaceutical potential. Here we describe the first purification, structural and functional characterisation of Hp-like and HS polysaccharides from the four major by-product fractions of standard heparin production. Analysis of the by-products by disaccharide composition analysis and NMR demonstrated a range of structural characteristics which differentiate them from Hp (particularly reduced sulfation and sulfated disaccharide content), and that they are each distinct. Functional properties of the purified by-products varied, each displaying distinct anticoagulant profiles in different assays, and all exhibiting significantly lower global and specific inhibition of the coagulation pathway than Hp. The by-products retained the ability to promote cell proliferation via fibroblast growth factor receptor signalling, with only minor differences between them. These collective analyses indicate that they represent an untapped and economical source of structurally-diverse Hp-like and HS polysaccharides with the potential for enhancing future structure-activity studies and uncovering new biomedical applications of these important natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Taylor
- Centre for Glycobiology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
| | - John Hogwood
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Controls (NIBSC), Blanche Lane, South Mimms, EN6 3GQ, UK
| | - Wei Guo
- Suzhou Erye Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, No. 2 Anmin Road, Dongqiao, Huangtai Town, Xiangcheng District, Suzhou, 215000, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China.,Jieyang Runda Casing Co. Ltd., East side No. 1 Street, Jieyang High-tech Industrial Development Zone, Jieyang City, 515500, Guangdong Province, P.R. China
| | - Edwin A Yates
- Centre for Glycobiology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Jeremy E Turnbull
- Centre for Glycobiology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK.
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13
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Lanzi C, Cassinelli G. Heparan Sulfate Mimetics in Cancer Therapy: The Challenge to Define Structural Determinants and the Relevance of Targets for Optimal Activity. Molecules 2018; 23:E2915. [PMID: 30413079 PMCID: PMC6278363 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23112915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Beyond anticoagulation, the therapeutic potential of heparin derivatives and heparan sulfate (HS) mimetics (functionally defined HS mimetics) in oncology is related to their ability to bind and modulate the function of a vast array of HS-binding proteins with pivotal roles in cancer growth and progression. The definition of structural/functional determinants and the introduction of chemical modifications enabled heparin derivatives to be identified with greatly reduced or absent anticoagulant activity, but conserved/enhanced anticancer activity. These studies paved the way for the disclosure of structural requirements for the inhibitory effects of HS mimetics on heparanase, selectins, and growth factor receptor signaling, as well as for the limitation of side effects. Actually, HS mimetics affect the tumor biological behavior via a multi-target mechanism of action based on their effects on tumor cells and various components of the tumor microenvironment. Emerging evidence indicates that immunomodulation can participate in the antitumor activity of these agents. Significant ability to enhance the antitumor effects of combination treatments with standard therapies was shown in several tumor models. While the first HS mimetics are undergoing early clinical evaluation, an improved understanding of the molecular contexts favoring the antitumor action in certain malignancies or subgroups is needed to fully exploit their potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Lanzi
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Applied Research and Technological Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Giuliana Cassinelli
- Molecular Pharmacology Unit, Department of Applied Research and Technological Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy.
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Kashefolgheta S, Vila Verde A. Developing force fields when experimental data is sparse: AMBER/GAFF-compatible parameters for inorganic and alkyl oxoanions. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2018; 19:20593-20607. [PMID: 28731091 DOI: 10.1039/c7cp02557b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
We present a set of Lennard-Jones parameters for classical, all-atom models of acetate and various alkylated and non-alkylated forms of sulfate, sulfonate and phosphate ions, optimized to reproduce their interactions with water and with the physiologically relevant sodium, ammonium and methylammonium cations. The parameters are internally consistent and are fully compatible with the Generalized Amber Force Field (GAFF), the AMBER force field for proteins, the accompanying TIP3P water model and the sodium model of Joung and Cheatham. The parameters were developed primarily relying on experimental information - hydration free energies and solution activity derivatives at 0.5 m concentration - with ab initio, gas phase calculations being used for the cases where experimental information is missing. The ab initio parameterization scheme presented here is distinct from other approaches because it explicitly connects gas phase binding energies to intermolecular interactions in solution. We demonstrate that the original GAFF/AMBER parameters often overestimate anion-cation interactions, leading to an excessive number of contact ion pairs in solutions of carboxylate ions, and to aggregation in solutions of divalent ions. GAFF/AMBER parameters lead to excessive numbers of salt bridges in proteins and of contact ion pairs between sodium and acidic protein groups, issues that are resolved by using the optimized parameters presented here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadra Kashefolgheta
- Department of Theory & Bio-systems, Max Planck Institute for Colloids and Interfaces, Science Park, Potsdam 14476, Germany.
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15
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Malineni J, Singh S, Tillmann S, Keul H, Möller M. Aliphatic Polyethers with Sulfate, Carboxylate, and Hydroxyl Side Groups-Do They Show Anticoagulant Properties? Macromol Biosci 2016; 17. [DOI: 10.1002/mabi.201600274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jagadeesh Malineni
- DWI-Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials; Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry; RWTH Aachen University; Forckenbeckstraße 50 D-52074 Aachen Germany
| | - Smriti Singh
- DWI-Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials; Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry; RWTH Aachen University; Forckenbeckstraße 50 D-52074 Aachen Germany
| | - Sabine Tillmann
- Department for Anaesthesiology; University Hospital RWTH Aachen; Pauwelsstraße 30 D-52074 Aachen Germany
| | - Helmut Keul
- DWI-Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials; Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry; RWTH Aachen University; Forckenbeckstraße 50 D-52074 Aachen Germany
| | - Martin Möller
- DWI-Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials; Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry; RWTH Aachen University; Forckenbeckstraße 50 D-52074 Aachen Germany
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16
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O'Neill P, Lindsay SL, Pantiru A, Guimond SE, Fagoe N, Verhaagen J, Turnbull JE, Riddell JS, Barnett SC. Sulfatase-mediated manipulation of the astrocyte-Schwann cell interface. Glia 2016; 65:19-33. [PMID: 27535874 PMCID: PMC5244676 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Revised: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Schwann cell (SC) transplantation following spinal cord injury (SCI) may have therapeutic potential. Functional recovery is limited however, due to poor SC interactions with host astrocytes and the induction of astrogliosis. Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) are closely related to SCs, but intermix more readily with astrocytes in culture and induce less astrogliosis. We previously demonstrated that OECs express higher levels of sulfatases, enzymes that remove 6-O-sulfate groups from heparan sulphate proteoglycans, than SCs and that RNAi knockdown of sulfatase prevented OEC-astrocyte mixing in vitro. As human OECs are difficult to culture in large numbers we have genetically engineered SCs using lentiviral vectors to express sulfatase 1 and 2 (SC-S1S2) and assessed their ability to interact with astrocytes. We demonstrate that SC-S1S2s have increased integrin-dependent motility in the presence of astrocytes via modulation of NRG and FGF receptor-linked PI3K/AKT intracellular signaling and do not form boundaries with astrocytes in culture. SC-astrocyte mixing is dependent on local NRG concentration and we propose that sulfatase enzymes influence the bioavailability of NRG ligand and thus influence SC behavior. We further demonstrate that injection of sulfatase expressing SCs into spinal cord white matter results in less glial reactivity than control SC injections comparable to that of OEC injections. Our data indicate that sulfatase-mediated modification of the extracellular matrix can influence glial interactions with astrocytes, and that SCs engineered to express sulfatase may be more OEC-like in character. This approach may be beneficial for cell transplant-mediated spinal cord repair. GLIA 2016 GLIA 2017;65:19-33.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul O'Neill
- Institute of Infection, Inflammation and Immunity, 120 University Place, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, United Kingdom
| | - Susan L Lindsay
- Institute of Infection, Inflammation and Immunity, 120 University Place, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, United Kingdom
| | - Andreea Pantiru
- Institute of Infection, Inflammation and Immunity, 120 University Place, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, United Kingdom
| | - Scott E Guimond
- Department of Biochemistry, Centre for Glycobiology, Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, United Kingdom
| | - Nitish Fagoe
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 47, Amsterdam, BA, 1105, the Netherlands
| | - Joost Verhaagen
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 47, Amsterdam, BA, 1105, the Netherlands
| | - Jeremy E Turnbull
- Department of Biochemistry, Centre for Glycobiology, Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, United Kingdom
| | - John S Riddell
- Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology, West Medical Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Susan C Barnett
- Institute of Infection, Inflammation and Immunity, 120 University Place, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, United Kingdom
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17
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Masu M. Proteoglycans and axon guidance: a new relationship between old partners. J Neurochem 2016; 139 Suppl 2:58-75. [PMID: 26709493 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Neural circuits are formed with great precision during development. Accumulated evidence over the past three decades has demonstrated that growing axons are navigated toward their targets by the combined actions of attractants and repellents together with their receptors. It has long been known that proteoglycans, glycosylated proteins possessing covalently attached glycosaminoglycans, play a critical role in axon guidance; however, the molecular mechanisms by which proteoglycans regulate axon behaviors remain largely unknown. Glycosaminoglycans such as heparan sulfate and chondroitin sulfate are large linear polysaccharides composed of repeating disaccharide units that are highly modified by specific sulfation and epimerization. Recent biochemical and molecular biological studies have identified the enzymes that are involved in the biosynthesis of glycosaminoglycans. Interestingly, many mutants lacking glycosaminoglycan-synthesizing enzymes or proteoglycans in several model organisms show defects in specific nerve tract formation. In parallel, detailed biochemical studies have identified the molecular interactions between axon guidance molecules and glycosaminoglycans that have specific modification in their sugar chains. This review summarizes the structure and function of axon guidance molecules and glycosaminoglycans, and then tries to combine the knowledge from these studies to understand the role of proteoglycans from a new vantage point. Deciphering the sugar code is important for understanding the complicated nature of proteoglycans in axon guidance. Neural circuits are formed by the combined actions of axon guidance molecules. Proteoglycans play critical roles in regulating axon guidance through the interaction between signaling molecules and glycosaminoglycan chains attached to the core protein. This paper summarizes the structure and functions of axon guidance molecules and glycosaminoglycans and reviews the molecular mechanisms by which proteoglycans regulate axon guidance from a new vantage point. This article is part of the 60th Anniversary special issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Masu
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
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18
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Abstract
In nearly all cases of biological activity of sulfated GAGs, the sulfate group(s) are critical for interacting with target proteins. A growing paradigm is that appropriate small, sulfated, nonsaccharide GAG mimetics can be designed to either mimic or interfere with the biological functions of natural GAG sequences resulting in the discovery of either antagonist or agonist agents. A number of times these sulfated NSGMs can be computationally designed based on the parent GAG-protein interaction. The small sulfated NSGMs may possess considerable aromatic character so as to engineer hydrophobic, hydrogen-bonding, Coulombic or cation-pi forces in their interactions with target protein(s) resulting in higher specificity of action relative to parent GAGs. The sulfated NSGMs can be easily synthesized in one step from appropriate natural polyphenols through chemical sulfation under microwave-based conditions. We describe step-by-step procedures to perform microwave-based sulfation of several small polyphenol scaffolds so as to prepare homogenous NSGMs containing one to more than 10 sulfate groups per molecule in high yields.
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Gerlza T, Hecher B, Jeremic D, Fuchs T, Gschwandtner M, Falsone A, Gesslbauer B, Kungl AJ. A combinatorial approach to biophysically characterise chemokine-glycan binding affinities for drug development. Molecules 2014; 19:10618-34. [PMID: 25054442 PMCID: PMC6271861 DOI: 10.3390/molecules190710618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2014] [Revised: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemokine binding to glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) is recognised to be an important step in inflammation and other pathological disorders like tumor growth and metastasis. Although different ways and strategies to interfere with these interactions are being pursued, no major breakthrough in the development of glycan-targeting drugs has been reported so far. We have engineered CXCL8 towards a dominant-negative form of this chemokine (dnCXCL8) which was shown to be highly active in various inflammatory animal models due to its inability to bind/activate the cognate CXCL8 GPC receptors on neutrophils in combination with its significantly increased GAG-binding affinity [1]. For the development of GAG-targeting chemokine-based biopharmaceuticals, we have established a repertoire of methods which allow the quantification of protein-GAG interactions. Isothermal fluorescence titration (IFT), surface plasmon resonance (SPR), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and a novel ELISA-like competition assay (ELICO) have been used to determine Kd and IC50 values for CXCL8 and dnCXCL8 interacting with heparin and heparan sulfate (HS), the proto-typical members of the GAG family. Although the different methods gave different absolute affinities for the four protein-ligand pairs, the relative increase in GAG-binding affinity of dnCXCL8 compared to the wild type chemokine was found by all methods. In combination, these biophysical methods allow to discriminate between unspecific and specific protein-GAG interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Gerlza
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Karl-Franzens-University Graz, Humboldtstrasse 46, A-8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Bianca Hecher
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Karl-Franzens-University Graz, Humboldtstrasse 46, A-8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Dalibor Jeremic
- ProtAffin Biotechnologie AG, Reininghausstrasse 13a, A-802 Graz, Austria
| | - Thomas Fuchs
- ProtAffin Biotechnologie AG, Reininghausstrasse 13a, A-802 Graz, Austria
| | | | - Angelika Falsone
- ProtAffin Biotechnologie AG, Reininghausstrasse 13a, A-802 Graz, Austria
| | - Bernd Gesslbauer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Karl-Franzens-University Graz, Humboldtstrasse 46, A-8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Andreas J Kungl
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Karl-Franzens-University Graz, Humboldtstrasse 46, A-8010 Graz, Austria.
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Casu B, Naggi A, Torri G. Re-visiting the structure of heparin. Carbohydr Res 2014; 403:60-8. [PMID: 25088334 DOI: 10.1016/j.carres.2014.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The sulfated polysaccharide heparin has been used as a life-saving anticoagulant in clinics well before its detailed structure was known. This mini-review is a survey of the evolution in the discovery of the primary and secondary structure of heparin. Highlights in this history include elucidation and synthesis of the specific sequence that binds to antithrombin, the development of low-molecular-weight heparins currently used as antithrombotic drugs, and the most promising start of chemo-enzymatic synthesis. Special emphasis is given to peculiar conformational properties contributing to interaction with proteins that modulate different biological properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benito Casu
- G. Ronzoni Institute for Chemical and Biochemical Research, via G. Colombo, 81 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Annamaria Naggi
- G. Ronzoni Institute for Chemical and Biochemical Research, via G. Colombo, 81 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Giangiacomo Torri
- G. Ronzoni Institute for Chemical and Biochemical Research, via G. Colombo, 81 20133 Milan, Italy
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Khan S, Fung KW, Rodriguez E, Patel R, Gor J, Mulloy B, Perkins SJ. The solution structure of heparan sulfate differs from that of heparin: implications for function. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:27737-51. [PMID: 23921391 PMCID: PMC3784691 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.492223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2013] [Revised: 08/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The highly sulfated polysaccharides heparin and heparan sulfate (HS) play key roles in the regulation of physiological and pathophysiological processes. Despite its importance, no molecular structures of free HS have been reported up to now. By combining analytical ultracentrifugation, small angle x-ray scattering, and constrained scattering modeling recently used for heparin, we have analyzed the solution structures for eight purified HS fragments dp6-dp24 corresponding to the predominantly unsulfated GlcA-GlcNAc domains of heparan sulfate. Unlike heparin, the sedimentation coefficient s20,w of HS dp6-dp24 showed a small rotor speed dependence, where similar s20,w values of 0.82-1.26 S (absorbance optics) and 1.05-1.34 S (interference optics) were determined. The corresponding x-ray scattering measurements of HS dp6-dp24 gave radii of gyration RG values from 1.03 to 2.82 nm, cross-sectional radii of gyration RXS values from 0.31 to 0.65 nm, and maximum lengths L from 3.0 to 10.0 nm. These data showed that HS has a longer and more bent structure than heparin. Constrained scattering modeling starting from 5,000 to 12,000 conformationally randomized HS structures gave best fit dp6-dp24 molecular structures that were longer and more bent than their equivalents in heparin. Alternative fits were obtained for HS dp18 and dp24, indicating their higher bending and flexibility. We conclude that HS displays bent conformations that are significantly distinct from that for heparin. The difference is attributed to the different predominant monosaccharide sequence and reduced sulfation of HS, indicating that HS may interact differently with proteins compared with heparin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaullah Khan
- From the Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom and
| | - Ka Wai Fung
- From the Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom and
| | - Elizabeth Rodriguez
- From the Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom and
| | - Rima Patel
- From the Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom and
| | - Jayesh Gor
- From the Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom and
| | - Barbara Mulloy
- the Glycosciences Laboratory, Imperial College London, Department of Medicine, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen J. Perkins
- From the Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom and
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Small molecule inhibitors of protein interaction with glycosaminoglycans (SMIGs), a novel class of bioactive agents with anti-inflammatory properties. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2013; 1840:245-54. [PMID: 24060749 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2013.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2013] [Revised: 09/12/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small molecule inhibitors of biologically important protein-glycosaminoglycan (GAG) interactions have yet to be identified. METHODS Compound libraries were screened in an assay of L-selectin-IgG binding to heparin (a species of heparan sulfate [HS-GAG]). Hits were validated, IC-50s established and direct binding of hits to HS-GAGs was investigated by incubating compounds alone with heparin. Selectivity of inhibitors was assessed in 11 different protein-GAG binding assays. Anti-inflammatory activity of selected compounds was evaluated in animal models. RESULTS Screening identified a number of structurally-diverse planar aromatic cationic amines. Scaffolds similar to known GAG binders, chloroquine and tilorone, were also identified. Inhibitors displayed activity also against bovine kidney heparan sulfate. Direct binding of compounds to GAGs was verified by incubating compounds with heparin alone. Selectivity of inhibitors was demonstrated in a panel of 11 heparin binding proteins, including selectins, chemokines (IL-8, IP-10), Beta Amyloid and cytokines (VEGF, IL-6). A number of selected lead compounds showed dose-dependent efficacy in peritonitis, paw edema and delayed type hypersensitivity. CONCLUSIONS A new class of compounds, SMIGs, inhibits protein-GAG interaction by direct binding to GAGs. Although their IC-50s were in the low micro-molar range, SMIGs binding to HS-GAGs appeared to be stable in physiological conditions, indicating high avidity binding. SMIGs may interfere with major checkpoints for inflammatory and autoimmune events. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE SMIGs are a class of structurally-diverse planar aromatic cationic amines that have an unusual mode of action - inhibiting protein-GAG interactions via direct and stable binding to GAGs. SMIGs may have therapeutic potential in inflammatory and autoimmune disorders.
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