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Hong M, Bitan G. Recent advances and future therapy development for Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1877-1878. [PMID: 38227506 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.391182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Megan Hong
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gal Bitan
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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2
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Tan LH, Kwoh CK, Mu Y. RmsdXNA: RMSD prediction of nucleic acid-ligand docking poses using machine-learning method. Brief Bioinform 2024; 25:bbae166. [PMID: 38695120 PMCID: PMC11063749 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbae166] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Small molecule drugs can be used to target nucleic acids (NA) to regulate biological processes. Computational modeling methods, such as molecular docking or scoring functions, are commonly employed to facilitate drug design. However, the accuracy of the scoring function in predicting the closest-to-native docking pose is often suboptimal. To overcome this problem, a machine learning model, RmsdXNA, was developed to predict the root-mean-square-deviation (RMSD) of ligand docking poses in NA complexes. The versatility of RmsdXNA has been demonstrated by its successful application to various complexes involving different types of NA receptors and ligands, including metal complexes and short peptides. The predicted RMSD by RmsdXNA was strongly correlated with the actual RMSD of the docked poses. RmsdXNA also outperformed the rDock scoring function in ranking and identifying closest-to-native docking poses across different structural groups and on the testing dataset. Using experimental validated results conducted on polyadenylated nuclear element for nuclear expression triplex, RmsdXNA demonstrated better screening power for the RNA-small molecule complex compared to rDock. Molecular dynamics simulations were subsequently employed to validate the binding of top-scoring ligand candidates selected by RmsdXNA and rDock on MALAT1. The results showed that RmsdXNA has a higher success rate in identifying promising ligands that can bind well to the receptor. The development of an accurate docking score for a NA-ligand complex can aid in drug discovery and development advancements. The code to use RmsdXNA is available at the GitHub repository https://github.com/laiheng001/RmsdXNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lai Heng Tan
- Interdisciplinary Graduate School, Nanyang Technological University, 61 Nanyang Drive, 637335 Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chee Keong Kwoh
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798 Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yuguang Mu
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551 Singapore, Singapore
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3
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Rauf A, Khalil AA, Awadallah S, Khan SA, Abu‐Izneid T, Kamran M, Hemeg HA, Mubarak MS, Khalid A, Wilairatana P. Reactive oxygen species in biological systems: Pathways, associated diseases, and potential inhibitors-A review. Food Sci Nutr 2024; 12:675-693. [PMID: 38370049 PMCID: PMC10867483 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3784] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced under normal physiological conditions and may have beneficial and harmful effects on biological systems. ROS are involved in many physiological processes such as differentiation, proliferation, necrosis, autophagy, and apoptosis by acting as signaling molecules or regulators of transcription factors. In this case, maintaining proper cellular ROS levels is known as redox homeostasis. Oxidative stress occurs because of the imbalance between the production of ROS and antioxidant defenses. Sources of ROS include the mitochondria, auto-oxidation of glucose, and enzymatic pathways such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate reduced (NAD[P]H) oxidase. The possible ROS pathways are NF-κB, MAPKs, PI3K-Akt, and the Keap1-Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway. This review covers the literature pertaining to the possible ROS pathways and strategies to inhibit them. Additionally, this review summarizes the literature related to finding ROS inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdur Rauf
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of SwabiAnbarPakistan
| | - Anees Ahmed Khalil
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesThe University of LahoreLahorePakistan
| | - Samir Awadallah
- Department of Medical Lab Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical SciencesZarqa UniversityZarqaJordan
| | - Shahid Ali Khan
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural SciencesNational University of Science and Technology (NUST)IslamabadPakistan
| | - Tareq Abu‐Izneid
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of PharmacyAl Ain UniversityAl Ain, Abu DhabiUAE
| | - Muhammad Kamran
- H. E. J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological SciencesUniversity of KarachiKarachiPakistan
| | - Hassan A. Hemeg
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, College of Applied Medical SciencesTaibah UniversityAl‐Medinah Al‐MonawaraSaudi Arabia
| | | | - Ahood Khalid
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesThe University of LahoreLahorePakistan
| | - Polrat Wilairatana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical MedicineMahidol UniversityBangkokThailand
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4
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Abad C, Demeules M, Guillou C, Gondé H, Zoubairi R, Tan YV, Pinto-Espinoza C, Schäfer W, Mann AM, Vouret-Craviari V, Koch-Nolte F, Adriouch S. Administration of an AAV vector coding for a P2X7-blocking nanobody-based biologic ameliorates colitis in mice. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:27. [PMID: 38212782 PMCID: PMC10785547 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02285-4] [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: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pro-inflammatory ATP-gated P2X7 receptor is widely expressed by immune and non-immune cells. Nanobodies targeting P2X7, with potentiating or antagonistic effects, have been developed. Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene transfer represents an efficient approach to achieve long-term in vivo expression of selected nanobody-based biologics. This approach (AAVnano) was used to validate the relevance of P2X7 as a target in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. RESULTS Mice received an intramuscular injection of AAV vectors coding for potentiating (14D5-dimHLE) or antagonistic (13A7-Fc) nanobody-based biologics targeting P2X7. Long-term modulation of P2X7 activity was evaluated ex vivo from blood samples. Colitis was induced with DSS in mice injected with AAV vectors coding for nanobody-based biologics. Severity of colitis, colon histopathology and expression of chemokines and cytokines were determined to evaluate the impact of P2X7 modulation. A single injection of an AAV vector coding for 13A7-Fc or 14D5-dimHLE efficiently modulated P2X7 function in vivo from day 15 up to day 120 post-injection in a dose-dependent manner. An AAV vector coding for 13A7-Fc significantly ameliorated DSS-induced colitis and significantly reduced immune cell infiltration and expression of chemokines and proinflammatory cytokines in colonic tissue. CONCLUSIONS We have demonstrated the validity of AAVnano methodology to modulate P2X7 functions in vivo. Applying this methodological approach to a DSS-induced colitis model, we have shown that P2X7 blockade reduces inflammation and disease severity. Hence, this study confirms the importance of P2X7 as a pharmacological target and suggests the use of nanobody-based biologics as potential therapeutics in inflammatory bowel disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catalina Abad
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM, U1234, Pathophysiology Autoimmunity and Immunotherapy (PANTHER), Normandie Univ, 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Mélanie Demeules
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM, U1234, Pathophysiology Autoimmunity and Immunotherapy (PANTHER), Normandie Univ, 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Charlotte Guillou
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM, U1234, Pathophysiology Autoimmunity and Immunotherapy (PANTHER), Normandie Univ, 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Henri Gondé
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM, U1234, Pathophysiology Autoimmunity and Immunotherapy (PANTHER), Normandie Univ, 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Rachid Zoubairi
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM, U1234, Pathophysiology Autoimmunity and Immunotherapy (PANTHER), Normandie Univ, 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Yossan-Var Tan
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM, U1234, Pathophysiology Autoimmunity and Immunotherapy (PANTHER), Normandie Univ, 76000, Rouen, France
| | | | - Waldemar Schäfer
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anna Marei Mann
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Friedrich Koch-Nolte
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sahil Adriouch
- Univ Rouen Normandie, INSERM, U1234, Pathophysiology Autoimmunity and Immunotherapy (PANTHER), Normandie Univ, 76000, Rouen, France.
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, INSERM U1234 - PANTHER Lab, 22 Boulevard Gambetta, CS 76183, University of Rouen, 76000, Rouen, France.
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5
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Rahban M, Ahmad F, Piatyszek MA, Haertlé T, Saso L, Saboury AA. Stabilization challenges and aggregation in protein-based therapeutics in the pharmaceutical industry. RSC Adv 2023; 13:35947-35963. [PMID: 38090079 PMCID: PMC10711991 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra06476j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein-based therapeutics have revolutionized the pharmaceutical industry and become vital components in the development of future therapeutics. They offer several advantages over traditional small molecule drugs, including high affinity, potency and specificity, while demonstrating low toxicity and minimal adverse effects. However, the development and manufacturing processes of protein-based therapeutics presents challenges related to protein folding, purification, stability and immunogenicity that should be addressed. These proteins, like other biological molecules, are prone to chemical and physical instabilities. The stability of protein-based drugs throughout the entire manufacturing, storage and delivery process is essential. The occurrence of structural instability resulting from misfolding, unfolding, and modifications, as well as aggregation, poses a significant risk to the efficacy of these drugs, overshadowing their promising attributes. Gaining insight into structural alterations caused by aggregation and their impact on immunogenicity is vital for the advancement and refinement of protein therapeutics. Hence, in this review, we have discussed some features of protein aggregation during production, formulation and storage as well as stabilization strategies in protein engineering and computational methods to prevent aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdie Rahban
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences Kerman Iran
| | - Faizan Ahmad
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Chemical & Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard New Delhi-110062 India
| | | | | | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University Rome Italy
| | - Ali Akbar Saboury
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran Tehran 1417614335 Iran +9821 66404680 +9821 66956984
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Kim HW, Ko MK, Park SH, Shin S, Kim SM, Park JH, Lee MJ. Bestatin, A Pluripotent Immunomodulatory Small Molecule, Drives Robust and Long-Lasting Immune Responses as an Adjuvant in Viral Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1690. [PMID: 38006022 PMCID: PMC10675184 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11111690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
An inactivated whole-virus vaccine is currently used to prevent foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). Although this vaccine is effective, it offers short-term immunity that requires regular booster immunizations and has several side effects, including local reactions at the vaccination site. To address these limitations, herein, we evaluated the efficacy of bestatin as a novel small molecule adjuvant for inactivated FMD vaccines. Our findings showed that the FMD vaccine formulated with bestatin enhanced early, intermediate-, and particularly long-term immunity in experimental animals (mice) and target animals (pigs). Furthermore, cytokines (interferon (IFN)α, IFNβ, IFNγ, and interleukin (IL)-29), retinoic acid-inducible gene (RIG)-I, and T-cell and B-cell core receptors (cluster of differentiation (CD)28, CD19, CD21, and CD81) markedly increased in the group that received the FMD vaccine adjuvanted with bestatin in pigs compared with the control. These results indicate the significant potential of bestatin to improve the efficacy of inactivated FMD vaccines in terms of immunomodulatory function for the simultaneous induction of potent cellular and humoral immune response and a long-lasting memory response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Min Ja Lee
- Center for Foot-and-Mouth Disease Vaccine Research, Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency, 177 Hyeoksin 8-ro, Gimcheon-si 39660, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea; (H.W.K.); (M.-K.K.); (S.H.P.); (S.S.); (S.-M.K.); (J.-H.P.)
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7
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Elsayed A, Jaber N, Al-Remawi M, Abu-Salah K. From cell factories to patients: Stability challenges in biopharmaceuticals manufacturing and administration with mitigation strategies. Int J Pharm 2023; 645:123360. [PMID: 37657507 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123360] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Active ingredients of biopharmaceuticals consist of a wide array of biomolecular structures, including those of enzymes, monoclonal antibodies, nucleic acids, and recombinant proteins. Recently, these molecules have dominated the pharmaceutical industry owing to their safety and efficacy. However, their manufacturing is hindered by high cost, inadequate batch-to-batch equivalence, inherent instability, and other quality issues. This article is an up-to-date review of the challenges encountered during different stages of biopharmaceutical production and mitigation of problems arising during their development, formulation, manufacturing, and administration. It is a broad overview discussion of stability issues encountered during product life cycle i.e., upstream processing (aggregation, solubility, host cell proteins, color change), downstream bioprocessing (aggregation, fragmentation), formulation, manufacturing, and delivery to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amani Elsayed
- College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nisrein Jaber
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman 11733, Jordan
| | - Mayyas Al-Remawi
- Faculty of Pharmacy & Medical Sciences, University of Petra, Amman 1196, Jordan.
| | - Khalid Abu-Salah
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Department of Nanomedicine, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Wu K, Karapetyan E, Schloss J, Vadgama J, Wu Y. Advancements in small molecule drug design: A structural perspective. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103730. [PMID: 37536390 PMCID: PMC10543554 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
In this review, we outline recent advancements in small molecule drug design from a structural perspective. We compare protein structure prediction methods and explore the role of the ligand binding pocket in structure-based drug design. We examine various structural features used to optimize drug candidates, including functional groups, stereochemistry, and molecular weight. Computational tools such as molecular docking and virtual screening are discussed for predicting and optimizing drug candidate structures. We present examples of drug candidates designed based on their molecular structure and discuss future directions in the field. By effectively integrating structural information with other valuable data sources, we can improve the drug discovery process, leading to the identification of novel therapeutics with improved efficacy, specificity, and safety profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wu
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine and UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Eduard Karapetyan
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine and UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - John Schloss
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine and UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; School of Pharmacy, American University of Health Sciences, Signal Hill, CA 90755, USA
| | - Jaydutt Vadgama
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine and UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; School of Pharmacy, American University of Health Sciences, Signal Hill, CA 90755, USA.
| | - Yong Wu
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine and UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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Cha M, Dagar A, Lee S, Cho I, Lee D, Kim K, Park I, Yoon S, Kim HY, Kim I, Kim Y. Benzo[ d]imidazole-pyrrolo[1,2- a]pyrazine Hybrids Ameliorate Amyloid Aggregates in the Brain of Alzheimer Transgenic Mice. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:3025-3034. [PMID: 37552840 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormal assembly of amyloid β (Aβ) in the brain is implicated in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and is associated with cognitive impairments. Since Aβ accumulation occurs in advance of the onset of clinical symptoms, identifying preventable drug candidates regulating Aβ accumulation is regarded as a promising approach in AD therapeutic. Herein, we synthesized eight Yonsei Institute of pharmaceutical sciences Alzheimer's Drug (YIAD) compounds based on 5-benzyl-6-phenylbenzo[4,5]imidazo[1,2-a]pyrrolo[2,1-c]pyrazine structures. Subsequently, YIAD-0203 and YIAD-0205 were selected as effective candidates via thioflavin T assays and gel electrophoresis. The potential therapeutic effect of YIAD-0203 and YIAD-0205 on Aβ aggregates was investigated through an AD transgenic mouse model with five familial AD mutations (5XFAD) by oral gavage. Significant amounts of Aβ plaque and oligomer reduction were observed in the hippocampus region of both 4.3-month-old (early stage of AD) and 6.0-month-old (mid stage of AD) YIAD-0205-treated 5XFAD mice brains when compared to the nontreated brains. The ability of YIAD-0205 to ameliorate Aβ aggregates in the early and mid stages of AD progression supports the notion that YIAD-0205 could be utilized as a reliable scaffold for the development of preventive AD drug candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Soljee Yoon
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology & Translational Medicine, Yonsei University, 85 Songdogwahak-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21983, South Korea
| | | | | | - YoungSoo Kim
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology & Translational Medicine, Yonsei University, 85 Songdogwahak-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21983, South Korea
- Amyloid Solution, Seongnam 13486, Gyeonggi, South Korea
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10
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Antimicrobial Resistance and Recent Alternatives to Antibiotics for the Control of Bacterial Pathogens with an Emphasis on Foodborne Pathogens. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12020274. [PMID: 36830185 PMCID: PMC9952301 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most important global public health problems. The imprudent use of antibiotics in humans and animals has resulted in the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The dissemination of these strains and their resistant determinants could endanger antibiotic efficacy. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify and develop novel strategies to combat antibiotic resistance. This review provides insights into the evolution and the mechanisms of AMR. Additionally, it discusses alternative approaches that might be used to control AMR, including probiotics, prebiotics, antimicrobial peptides, small molecules, organic acids, essential oils, bacteriophage, fecal transplants, and nanoparticles.
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11
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Hernandez A, Hartgerink JD, Young S. Self-assembling peptides as immunomodulatory biomaterials. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1139782. [PMID: 36937769 PMCID: PMC10014862 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1139782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-assembling peptides are a type of biomaterial rapidly emerging in the fields of biomedicine and material sciences due to their promise in biocompatibility and effectiveness at controlled release. These self-assembling peptides can form diverse nanostructures in response to molecular interactions, making them versatile materials. Once assembled, the peptides can mimic biological functions and provide a combinatorial delivery of therapeutics such as cytokines and drugs. These self-assembling peptides are showing success in biomedical settings yet face unique challenges that must be addressed to be widely applied in the clinic. Herein, we describe self-assembling peptides' characteristics and current applications in immunomodulatory therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Hernandez
- Katz Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Dentistry, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jeffrey D. Hartgerink
- Department of Chemistry and Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Simon Young
- Katz Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Dentistry, Houston, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Simon Young,
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Potential and Metabolic Pathways of Eugenol in the Management of Xanthomonas perforans, a Pathogen of Bacterial Spot of Tomato. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314648. [PMID: 36498976 PMCID: PMC9739100 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314648] [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: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial spot of tomato continues to pose a significant problem to tomato production worldwide. In Florida, bacterial spot of tomato caused by Xanthomonas perforans is one of the most important diseases responsible for tomato yield loss. This disease is difficult to control, and new strategies are continually being investigated to combat the devastating effect of this disease. Recent efforts focusing on essential oils based on small molecules have spurred interests in the utilization of this class of chemicals for disease management. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of eugenol for the management of bacterial spot of tomato caused by X. perforans. In the greenhouse experiments, eugenol applied as a foliar spray significantly (p < 0.5) reduced bacterial spot disease compared to the untreated control. In the field experiments, the area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) was significantly (p < 0.5) lower in the plots treated with eugenol or eugenol combined with the surfactant Cohere than in the untreated control plots, and it was comparable to the copper-based treatments. To provide additional insights into the possible pathways of eugenol activities, we applied a liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based metabolomic study using a thermo Q-Exactive orbitrap mass spectrometer with Dionex ultra high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) on X. perforans strain 91−118 treated with eugenol. Our results showed that eugenol affected metabolite production in multiple pathways critical to bacterial survival. For example, treatment of cells with eugenol resulted in the downregulation of the glutathione metabolism pathway and associated metabolites, except for 5-oxoproline, which accumulation is known to be toxic to living cells. While the peaks corresponding to the putatively identified sarmentosin showed the most significant impact and reduced in response to eugenol treatment, branched-chain amino acids, such as L-isoleucine, increased in production, suggesting that eugenol may not negatively affect the protein biosynthesis pathways. The results from our study demonstrated the efficacy of eugenol in the management of bacterial spot of tomato under greenhouse and field conditions and identified multiple pathways that are targeted.
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Feng D, Liu L, Shi Y, Du P, Xu S, Zhu Z, Xu J, Yao H. Current development of bicyclic peptides. CHINESE CHEM LETT 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.108026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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14
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Doolan JA, Williams GT, Hilton KLF, Chaudhari R, Fossey JS, Goult BT, Hiscock JR. Advancements in antimicrobial nanoscale materials and self-assembling systems. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:8696-8755. [PMID: 36190355 PMCID: PMC9575517 DOI: 10.1039/d1cs00915j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is directly responsible for more deaths per year than either HIV/AIDS or malaria and is predicted to incur a cumulative societal financial burden of at least $100 trillion between 2014 and 2050. Already heralded as one of the greatest threats to human health, the onset of the coronavirus pandemic has accelerated the prevalence of antimicrobial resistant bacterial infections due to factors including increased global antibiotic/antimicrobial use. Thus an urgent need for novel therapeutics to combat what some have termed the 'silent pandemic' is evident. This review acts as a repository of research and an overview of the novel therapeutic strategies being developed to overcome antimicrobial resistance, with a focus on self-assembling systems and nanoscale materials. The fundamental mechanisms of action, as well as the key advantages and disadvantages of each system are discussed, and attention is drawn to key examples within each field. As a result, this review provides a guide to the further design and development of antimicrobial systems, and outlines the interdisciplinary techniques required to translate this fundamental research towards the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack A Doolan
- School of Chemistry and Forensic Science, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NH, UK.
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NJ, UK.
| | - George T Williams
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Kira L F Hilton
- School of Chemistry and Forensic Science, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NH, UK.
| | - Rajas Chaudhari
- School of Chemistry and Forensic Science, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NH, UK.
| | - John S Fossey
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Benjamin T Goult
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NJ, UK.
| | - Jennifer R Hiscock
- School of Chemistry and Forensic Science, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NH, UK.
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15
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Bostock C, Teal CJ, Dang M, Golinski AW, Hackel BJ, Shoichet MS. Affibody-mediated controlled release of fibroblast growth factor 2. J Control Release 2022; 350:815-828. [PMID: 36087800 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.09.004] [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: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Protein therapeutics possess high target affinity and specificity, yet short residence times, which limit their broad utility. To overcome this challenge, we used affinity interactions to modulate protein release from a hydrogel delivery vehicle thereby prolonging therapeutic availability. Specifically, we designed an affibody-modified hyaluronan (HA)-based hydrogel as a delivery platform for fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), a neuroprotective and neuroregenerative factor in the central nervous system (CNS). We identified a highly specific affibody binding partner with moderate affinity for FGF2 using yeast surface display and flow cytometry-based screening. Importantly, we demonstrated controlled release of bioactive FGF2 from the hydrogel by varying the ratio of affibody to protein and showed increased thermal stability of FGF2 in the presence of affibody. This versatile delivery platform will allow the distinct, simultaneous release of multiple proteins based on specific affinity interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Bostock
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, 200 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E5, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Carter J Teal
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E1, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, 164 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Mickael Dang
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, 200 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E5, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Alex W Golinski
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 421 Washington Avenue Southeast, 356 Amundson Hall, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Benjamin J Hackel
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 421 Washington Avenue Southeast, 356 Amundson Hall, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Molly S Shoichet
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, 200 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E5, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E1, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, 164 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G9, Canada.
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16
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Wang A, Durrant JD. Open-Source Browser-Based Tools for Structure-Based Computer-Aided Drug Discovery. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27144623. [PMID: 35889494 PMCID: PMC9319651 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27144623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
We here outline the importance of open-source, accessible tools for computer-aided drug discovery (CADD). We begin with a discussion of drug discovery in general to provide context for a subsequent discussion of structure-based CADD applied to small-molecule ligand discovery. Next, we identify usability challenges common to many open-source CADD tools. To address these challenges, we propose a browser-based approach to CADD tool deployment in which CADD calculations run in modern web browsers on users’ local computers. The browser app approach eliminates the need for user-initiated download and installation, ensures broad operating system compatibility, enables easy updates, and provides a user-friendly graphical user interface. Unlike server apps—which run calculations “in the cloud” rather than on users’ local computers—browser apps do not require users to upload proprietary information to a third-party (remote) server. They also eliminate the need for the difficult-to-maintain computer infrastructure required to run user-initiated calculations remotely. We conclude by describing some CADD browser apps developed in our lab, which illustrate the utility of this approach. Aside from introducing readers to these specific tools, we are hopeful that this review highlights the need for additional browser-compatible, user-friendly CADD software.
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17
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Bruch A, Kelani AA, Blango MG. RNA-based therapeutics to treat human fungal infections. Trends Microbiol 2022; 30:411-420. [PMID: 34635448 PMCID: PMC8498853 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2021.09.007] [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] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, RNA-based therapeutics have transitioned from a near impossibility to a compelling treatment alternative for genetic disorders and infectious diseases. The mRNA vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are truly groundbreaking, and new adaptations are already being proposed to fight other microbes. Unfortunately, the potential of RNA-based therapeutics to treat human fungal infections has remained mostly absent from the conversation, despite the fact that invasive fungal infections kill as many per year as tuberculosis and even more than malaria. Here, we argue that RNA-based therapeutics should be investigated for the treatment of human fungal infections and discuss several major roadblocks and potential circumventions that may allow for the realization of RNA-based therapies against human fungal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Bruch
- Junior Research Group RNA Biology of Fungal Infections, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Abdulrahman A. Kelani
- Junior Research Group RNA Biology of Fungal Infections, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Matthew G. Blango
- Junior Research Group RNA Biology of Fungal Infections, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI), Jena, Germany,Correspondence:
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18
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Vanmechelen B, Stroobants J, Chiu W, Schepers J, Marchand A, Chaltin P, Vermeire K, Maes P. Identification of novel Ebola virus inhibitors using biologically contained virus. Antiviral Res 2022; 200:105294. [PMID: 35337896 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2022.105294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Despite recent advancements in the development of vaccines and monoclonal antibody therapies for Ebola virus disease, treatment options remain limited. Moreover, management and containment of Ebola virus outbreaks is often hindered by the remote nature of the locations in which the outbreaks originate. Small-molecule compounds offer the advantage of being relatively cheap and easy to produce, transport and store, making them an interesting modality for the development of novel therapeutics against Ebola virus disease. Furthermore, the repurposing of small-molecule compounds, previously developed for alternative applications, can aid in reducing the time needed to bring potential therapeutics from bench to bedside. For this purpose, the Medicines for Malaria Venture provides collections of previously developed small-molecule compounds for screening against other infectious diseases. In this study, we used biologically contained Ebola virus to screen over 4,200 small-molecule drugs and drug-like compounds provided by the Medicines for Malaria Venture (i.e., the Pandemic Response Box and the COVID Box) and the Centre for Drug Design and Discovery (CD3, KU Leuven, Belgium). In addition to confirming known Ebola virus inhibitors, illustrating the validity of our screening assays, we identified eight novel selective Ebola virus inhibitors. Although the inhibitory potential of these compounds remains to be validated in vivo, they represent interesting compounds for the study of potential interventions against Ebola virus disease and might serve as a basis for the development of new therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bert Vanmechelen
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Clinical and Epidemiological Virology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joren Stroobants
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Winston Chiu
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joost Schepers
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Arnaud Marchand
- CISTIM Leuven vzw, Gaston Geenslaan 2, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Chaltin
- CISTIM Leuven vzw, Gaston Geenslaan 2, 3000, Leuven, Belgium; Centre for Drug Design and Discovery (CD3), KU Leuven, Gaston Geenslaan 2, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kurt Vermeire
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Piet Maes
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Clinical and Epidemiological Virology, Leuven, Belgium.
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19
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Therapeutic RNA-silencing oligonucleotides in metabolic diseases. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2022; 21:417-439. [PMID: 35210608 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-022-00407-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have seen unprecedented activity in the development of RNA-silencing oligonucleotide therapeutics for metabolic diseases. Improved oligonucleotide design and optimization of synthetic nucleic acid chemistry, in combination with the development of highly selective and efficient conjugate delivery technology platforms, have established and validated oligonucleotides as a new class of drugs. To date, there are five marketed oligonucleotide therapies, with many more in clinical studies, for both rare and common liver-driven metabolic diseases. Here, we provide an overview of recent developments in the field of oligonucleotide therapeutics in metabolism, review past and current clinical trials, and discuss ongoing challenges and possible future developments.
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20
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Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant bone tumor, which usually occurs in children and adolescents. It is generally a high-grade malignancy presenting with extreme metastases to the lungs or other bones. The etiology of the disease is multifaceted and still remains obscure. A combination of surgery and chemotherapy has played a major role in the treatment of OS over the past three decades, and consequently, the overall survival rates for the disease have remained unchanged. Therefore, there is an urgent need to employ new comprehensive analyses and technologies to develop significantly more informative classification systems, with the aim of developing more effective and less toxic therapies for OS patients. This review discusses the existing knowledge of OS therapy and potential methods to develop novel therapeutic agents for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emel Rothzerg
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Abigail L Pfaff
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Sulev Koks
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
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21
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Fernández DI, Provenzale I, Cheung HY, van Groningen J, Tullemans BM, Veninga A, Dunster JL, Honarnejad S, van den Hurk H, Kuijpers MJ, Heemskerk JW. Ultra-high-throughput Ca 2+ assay in platelets to distinguish ITAM-linked and G-protein-coupled receptor activation. iScience 2022; 25:103718. [PMID: 35072010 PMCID: PMC8762394 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Antiplatelet drugs targeting G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), used for the secondary prevention of arterial thrombosis, coincide with an increased bleeding risk. Targeting ITAM-linked receptors, such as the collagen receptor glycoprotein VI (GPVI), is expected to provide a better antithrombotic-hemostatic profile. Here, we developed and characterized an ultra-high-throughput (UHT) method based on intracellular [Ca2+]i increases to differentiate GPVI and GPCR effects on platelets. In 96-, 384-, or 1,536-well formats, Calcium-6-loaded human platelets displayed a slow-prolonged or fast-transient [Ca2+]i increase when stimulated with the GPVI agonist collagen-related peptide or with thrombin and other GPCR agonists, respectively. Semi-automated curve fitting revealed five parameters describing the Ca2+ responses. Verification of the UHT assay was done with a robustness compound library and clinically relevant platelet inhibitors. Taken together, these results present proof of principle of distinct receptor-type-dependent Ca2+ signaling curves in platelets, which allow identification of new inhibitors in a UHT way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delia I. Fernández
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Platelet Proteomics Group, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Isabella Provenzale
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, University of Reading, RG6 6AX Reading, UK
| | - Hilaire Y.F. Cheung
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- ISASLeibniz-Institut fur Analytische Wissenschaften-ISAS-e.V., 44227 Dortmund, Germany
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | | | - Bibian M.E. Tullemans
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Alicia Veninga
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Joanne L. Dunster
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, University of Reading, RG6 6AX Reading, UK
| | | | | | - Marijke J.E. Kuijpers
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Thrombosis Expertise Centre, Heart and Vascular Centre, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Johan W.M. Heemskerk
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Synapse Research Institute, Kon. Emmaplein 7, 6214 AC, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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22
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Srinivasan E, Chandrasekhar G, Chandrasekar P, Anbarasu K, Vickram AS, Tayubi IA, Rajasekaran R, Karunakaran R. Decoding Conformational Imprint of Convoluted Molecular Interactions Between Prenylflavonoids and Aggregated Amyloid-Beta42 Peptide Causing Alzheimer's Disease. Front Chem 2022; 9:753146. [PMID: 34988060 PMCID: PMC8720757 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.753146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein misfolding occurs due to the loss of native protein structure and adopts an abnormal structure, wherein the misfolded proteins accumulate and form aggregates, which result in the formation of amyloid fibrils that are associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Amyloid beta (Aβ42) aggregation or amyloidosis is contemplated as a unique hallmark characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Due to aberrant accrual and aggregation of Aβ42 in extracellular space, the formation of senile plaques is found in AD patients. These senile plaques occur usually in the cognitive and memory region of the brain, enfeebles neurodegeneration, hinders the signaling between synapse, and disrupts neuronal functioning. In recent years, herbal compounds are identified and characterized for their potential as Aβ42 inhibitors. Thus, understanding their structure and molecular mechanics can provide an incredible finding in AD therapeutics. To describe the structure-based molecular studies in the rational designing of drugs against amyloid fibrils, we examined various herbal compounds that belong to prenylflavonoids. The present study characterizes the trends we identified at molecular docking studies and dynamics simulation where we observed stronger binding orientation of bavachalcone, bavachin, and neobavaisoflavone with the amyloid-beta (Aβ42) fibril structure. Hence, we could postulate that these herbal compounds could be potential inhibitors of Aβ42 fibrils; these anti-aggregation agents need to be considered in treating AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Srinivasan
- Bioinformatics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (Deemed to be University), Vellore, India.,Department of Bioinformatics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, India
| | - G Chandrasekhar
- Bioinformatics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (Deemed to be University), Vellore, India
| | - P Chandrasekar
- Bioinformatics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (Deemed to be University), Vellore, India
| | - K Anbarasu
- Department of Bioinformatics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, India
| | - A S Vickram
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, India
| | - Iftikhar Aslam Tayubi
- Faculty of Computing and Information Technology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - R Rajasekaran
- Bioinformatics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (Deemed to be University), Vellore, India
| | - Rohini Karunakaran
- Unit of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, Bedong, Malaysia
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23
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Genetically encoding latent bioreactive amino acids and the development of covalent protein drugs. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2021; 66:102106. [PMID: 34968810 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.102106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
As natural proteins generally do not bind targets in a covalent mode, the therapeutic potential of covalent protein drugs remains largely unexplored. Recently, latent bioreactive amino acids have been incorporated into proteins through genetic code expansion, which selectively react with nearby natural residues via proximity-enabled reactivity, generating diverse covalent linkages for proteins in vitro and in cells. These new covalent linkages provide novel avenues for protein research and engineering. In addition, a general platform technology, proximity-enabled reactive therapeutics (PERx), has been established for the development of covalent protein drugs. The first covalent protein drug demonstrates advantageous features in cancer immunotherapy in mice. Selective introduction of covalent bonds into proteins will advance biological studies, synthetic biology, and biotherapeutics with the power of biocompatible covalent chemistries.
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24
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Kharbanda A, Tran P, Zhang L, Leung YK, Li HY, Frett B. Discovery of 4-aminoquinolines as highly selective TGFβR1 inhibitors with an attenuated MAP4K4 profile for potential applications in immuno-oncology. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 225:113763. [PMID: 34419892 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113763] [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: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment contains high concentrations of TGFβ, a crucial immunosuppressive cytokine. TGFβ stimulates immune escape by promoting peripheral immune tolerance to avoid tumoricidal attack. Small-molecule inhibitors of TGFβR1 are a prospective method for next-generation immunotherapies. In the present study, we identified selective 4-aminoquinoline-based inhibitors of TGFβR1 through structural and rational-based design strategies. This led to the identification of compound 4i, which was found to be selective for TGFβR1 with the exception of MAP4K4 in the kinase profiling assay. The compound was then further optimized to remove MAP4K4 activity, since MAP4K4 is vital for proper T-cell function and its inhibition could exacerbate tumor immunosuppression. Optimization efforts led to compound 4s that inhibited TGFβR1 at an IC50 of 0.79 ± 0.19 nM with 2000-fold selectivity against MAP4K4. Compound 4s represents a highly selective TGFβR1 inhibitor that has potential applications in immuno-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anupreet Kharbanda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Phuc Tran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Lingtian Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Yuet-Kin Leung
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Hong-Yu Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
| | - Brendan Frett
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
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25
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Chen Z, Du R, Galvan Achi JM, Rong L, Cui Q. SARS-CoV-2 cell entry and targeted antiviral development. Acta Pharm Sin B 2021; 11:3879-3888. [PMID: 34002130 PMCID: PMC8117542 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of the pandemic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which threatens human health and public safety. In the urgent campaign to develop anti-SARS-CoV-2 therapies, the initial entry step is one of the most appealing targets. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of SARS-CoV-2 cell entry, and the development of targeted antiviral strategies. Moreover, we speculate upon future directions toward next-generation of SARS-CoV-2 entry inhibitors during the upcoming post-pandemic era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zinuo Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Ruikun Du
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
- Qingdao Academy of Chinese Medicinal Sciences, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qingdao 266122, China
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Jazmin M. Galvan Achi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Lijun Rong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Qinghua Cui
- College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
- Qingdao Academy of Chinese Medicinal Sciences, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qingdao 266122, China
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
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26
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Acharya A, Pandey K, Thurman M, Klug E, Trivedi J, Sharma K, Lorson CL, Singh K, Byrareddy SN. Discovery and Evaluation of Entry Inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2 and Its Emerging Variants. J Virol 2021; 95:e0143721. [PMID: 34550770 PMCID: PMC8610590 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01437-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic. Despite unprecedented research and developmental efforts, SARS-CoV-2-specific antivirals are still unavailable for the treatment of COVID-19. In most instances, SARS-CoV-2 infection initiates with the binding of Spike glycoprotein to the host cell ACE2 receptor. Utilizing the crystal structure of the ACE2/Spike receptor-binding domain (S-RBD) complex (PDB file 6M0J) in a computer-aided drug design approach, we identified and validated five potential inhibitors of S-RBD and ACE-2 interaction. Two of the five compounds, MU-UNMC-1 and MU-UNMC-2, blocked the entry of pseudovirus particles expressing SARS-CoV-2 Spike glycoprotein. In live SARS-CoV-2 infection assays, both compounds showed antiviral activity with IC50 values in the micromolar range (MU-UNMC-1: IC50 = 0.67 μM and MU-UNMC-2: IC50 = 1.72 μM) in human bronchial epithelial cells. Furthermore, MU-UNMC-1 and MU-UNMC-2 effectively blocked the replication of rapidly transmitting variants of concern: South African variant B.1.351 (IC50 = 9.27 and 3.00 μM) and Scotland variant B.1.222 (IC50 = 2.64 and 1.39 μM), respectively. Following these assays, we conducted "induced-fit (flexible) docking" to understand the binding mode of MU-UNMC-1/MU-UNMC-2 at the S-RBD/ACE2 interface. Our data showed that mutation N501Y (present in B.1.351 variant) alters the binding mode of MU-UNMC-2 such that it is partially exposed to the solvent and has reduced polar contacts. Finally, MU-UNMC-2 displayed high synergy with remdesivir, the only approved drug for treating hospitalized COVID-19 patients. IMPORTANCE The ongoing coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is caused by a novel coronavirus named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). More than 207 million people have been infected globally, and 4.3 million have died due to this viral outbreak. While a few vaccines have been deployed, a SARS-CoV-2-specific antiviral for the treatment of COVID-19 is yet to be approved. As the interaction of SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein with ACE2 is critical for cellular entry, using a combination of a computer-aided drug design (CADD) approach and cell-based in vitro assays, we report the identification of five potential SARS-CoV-2 entry inhibitors. Out of the five, two compounds (MU-UNMC-1 and MU-UNMC-2) have antiviral activity against ancestral SARS-CoV-2 and emerging variants from South Africa and Scotland. Furthermore, MU-UNMC-2 acts synergistically with remdesivir (RDV), suggesting that RDV and MU-UNMC-2 can be developed as a combination therapy to treat COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpan Acharya
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Kabita Pandey
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Michellie Thurman
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Elizabeth Klug
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Jay Trivedi
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Kalicharan Sharma
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India
| | - Christian L. Lorson
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Kamal Singh
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Siddappa N. Byrareddy
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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27
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Selvaraj C, Chandra I, Singh SK. Artificial intelligence and machine learning approaches for drug design: challenges and opportunities for the pharmaceutical industries. Mol Divers 2021; 26:1893-1913. [PMID: 34686947 PMCID: PMC8536481 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-021-10326-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The global spread of COVID-19 has raised the importance of pharmaceutical drug development as intractable and hot research. Developing new drug molecules to overcome any disease is a costly and lengthy process, but the process continues uninterrupted. The critical point to consider the drug design is to use the available data resources and to find new and novel leads. Once the drug target is identified, several interdisciplinary areas work together with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) methods to get enriched drugs. These AI and ML methods are applied in every step of the computer-aided drug design, and integrating these AI and ML methods results in a high success rate of hit compounds. In addition, this AI and ML integration with high-dimension data and its powerful capacity have taken a step forward. Clinical trials output prediction through the AI/ML integrated models could further decrease the clinical trials cost by also improving the success rate. Through this review, we discuss the backend of AI and ML methods in supporting the computer-aided drug design, along with its challenge and opportunity for the pharmaceutical industry. From the available information or data, the AI and ML based prediction for the high throughput virtual screening. After this integration of AI and ML, the success rate of hit identification has gained a momentum with huge success by providing novel drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandrabose Selvaraj
- CADD and Molecular Modelling Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Science Block, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, 630004, India.
| | - Ishwar Chandra
- CADD and Molecular Modelling Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Science Block, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, 630004, India
| | - Sanjeev Kumar Singh
- CADD and Molecular Modelling Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Science Block, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, 630004, India.
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28
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Pandey M, Ojha D, Bansal S, Rode AB, Chawla G. From bench side to clinic: Potential and challenges of RNA vaccines and therapeutics in infectious diseases. Mol Aspects Med 2021; 81:101003. [PMID: 34332771 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2021.101003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The functional and structural versatility of Ribonucleic acids (RNAs) makes them ideal candidates for overcoming the limitations imposed by small molecule-based drugs. Hence, RNA-based biopharmaceuticals such as messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNA mimics, anti-miRNA oligonucleotides (AMOs), aptamers, riboswitches, and CRISPR-Cas9 are emerging as vital tools for the treatment and prophylaxis of many infectious diseases. Some of the major challenges to overcome in the area of RNA-based therapeutics have been the instability of single-stranded RNAs, delivery to the diseased cell, and immunogenicity. However, recent advancements in the delivery systems of in vitro transcribed mRNA and chemical modifications for protection against nucleases and reducing the toxicity of RNA have facilitated the entry of several exogenous RNAs into clinical trials. In this review, we provide an overview of RNA-based vaccines and therapeutics, their production, delivery, current advancements, and future translational potential in treating infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Pandey
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Divya Ojha
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Sakshi Bansal
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Ambadas B Rode
- Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India.
| | - Geetanjali Chawla
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, 121001, India.
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29
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Wen Q, Li Y, Han Z, Liu H, Zhang S, Chen Y, He J, Du X, Fu Y, Zhang L, Zhang Z, Huang Y, Zhou X, Zhou C, Hu S, Ma L. β-Arrestin 2 Regulates Inflammatory Responses against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection through ERK1/2 Signaling. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 206:2623-2637. [PMID: 34001657 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2001346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the pathogen that causes tuberculosis, exhibits complex host-pathogen interactions. Pattern recognition receptors and their downstream signaling pathways play crucial roles in determining the outcome of infection. In particular, the scaffold protein β-arrestin 2 mediates downstream signaling of G protein-coupled receptors. However, the role of β-arrestin 2 in conferring immunity against M. tuberculosis has not yet been explored. We found that β-arrestin 2 was upregulated in the lesioned regions of lung tissues in patients with tuberculosis. M. tuberculosis infection upregulated β-arrestin 2 expression in human macrophages, and silencing of β-arrestin 2 significantly enhanced bactericidal activity by enhancing the expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α. β-Arrestin 2 was shown to inhibit the activation of the TLR2/ERK1/2 pathway and its transcriptional regulation activity upon M. tuberculosis infection. Furthermore, β-arrestin 2 transcriptionally regulates TNF-α by binding to CREB1. These observations revealed that the upregulation of β-arrestin 2 is critical for M. tuberculosis to escape immune surveillance through an unknown mechanism. Our research offers a novel interference modality to enhance the immune response against tuberculosis by targeting β-arrestin 2 to modulate the TLR2-β-arrestin 2-ERK1/2-CREB1-TNF-α regulatory axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wen
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanfen Li
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenyu Han
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Honglin Liu
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shimeng Zhang
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaoxin Chen
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianchun He
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xialin Du
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuling Fu
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Lijie Zhang
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zelin Zhang
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yulan Huang
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinying Zhou
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaoying Zhou
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengfeng Hu
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Ma
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
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Current and Future Therapeutic Strategies for Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Type R1: Clinical and Experimental Approaches. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2021; 28:238-249. [PMID: 35366260 PMCID: PMC8830477 DOI: 10.3390/pathophysiology28020016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Limb girdle muscular dystrophy type R1 disease is a progressive disease that is caused by mutations in the CAPN3 gene and involves the extremity muscles of the hip and shoulder girdle. The CAPN3 protein has proteolytic and non-proteolytic properties. The functions of the CAPN3 protein that have been determined so far can be listed as remodeling and combining contractile proteins in the sarcomere with the substrates with which it interacts, controlling the Ca2+ flow in and out through the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and regulation of membrane repair and muscle regeneration. Even though there are several gene therapies, cellular therapies, and drug therapies, such as glucocorticoid treatment, AAV- mediated therapy, CRISPR-Cas9, induced pluripotent stem cells, MYO-029, and AMBMP, which are either in preclinical or clinical phases, or have been completed, there is no final cure. Inhibitors and small molecules (tauroursodeoxycholic acid, salubrinal, rapamycin, CDN1163, dwarf open reading frame) targeting ER stress factors that are thought to be effective in muscle loss can be considered potential therapy strategies. At present, little can be done to treat the progressive muscle wasting, loss of function, and premature mortality of patients with LGMDR1, and there is a pressing need for more research to develop potential therapies.
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Sassetti E, Clausen MH, Laraia L. Small-Molecule Inhibitors of Reactive Oxygen Species Production. J Med Chem 2021; 64:5252-5275. [PMID: 33856791 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in physiological cellular processes including differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis by acting as signaling molecules or regulators of transcription factors. The maintenance of appropriate cellular ROS levels is termed redox homeostasis, a balance between their production and neutralization. High concentrations of ROS may contribute to severe pathological events including cancer, neurodegenerative, and cardiovascular diseases. In recent years, approaches to target the sources of ROS production directly in order to develop tool compounds or potential therapeutics have been explored. Herein, we briefly outline the major sources of cellular ROS production and comprehensively review the targeting of these by small-molecule inhibitors. We critically assess the value of ROS inhibitors with different mechanisms-of-action, including their potency, mode-of-action, known off-target effects, and clinical or preclinical status, while suggesting future avenues of research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Sassetti
- Center for Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 207, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Mads H Clausen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 207, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Luca Laraia
- Center for Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 207, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
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32
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Acharya A, Pandey K, Thurman M, Klug E, Trivedi J, Lorson CL, Singh K, Byrareddy SN. Discovery and in-vitro evaluation of potent SARS-CoV-2 entry inhibitors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2021. [PMID: 33821265 DOI: 10.1101/2021.04.02.438204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infection initiates with the attachment of spike protein to the ACE2 receptor. While vaccines have been developed, no SARS-CoV-2 specific small molecule inhibitors have been approved. Herein, utilizing the crystal structure of the ACE2/Spike receptor binding domain (S-RBD) complex in computer-aided drug design (CADD) approach, we docked ∼8 million compounds within the pockets residing at S-RBD/ACE2 interface. Five best hits depending on the docking score, were selected and tested for their in vitro efficacy to block SARS-CoV-2 replication. Of these, two compounds (MU-UNMC-1 and MU-UNMC-2) blocked SARS-CoV-2 replication at sub-micromolar IC 50 in human bronchial epithelial cells (UNCN1T) and Vero cells. Furthermore, MU-UNMC-2 was highly potent in blocking the virus entry by using pseudoviral particles expressing SARS-CoV-2 spike. Finally, we found that MU-UNMC-2 is highly synergistic with remdesivir (RDV), suggesting that minimal amounts are needed when used in combination with RDV, and has the potential to develop as a potential entry inhibitor for COVID-19.
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33
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MicroRNAs Regulating Hippo-YAP Signaling in Liver Cancer. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9040347. [PMID: 33808155 PMCID: PMC8067275 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9040347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, and its prevalence and mortality rate are increasing due to the lack of biomarkers and effective treatments. The Hippo signaling pathway has long been known to control liver size, and genetic depletion of Hippo kinases leads to liver cancer in mice through activation of the downstream effectors yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ). Both YAP and TAZ not only reprogram tumor cells but also alter the tumor microenvironment to exert carcinogenic effects. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of YAP/TAZ-mediated liver tumorigenesis will help overcome liver cancer. For decades, small noncoding RNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs), have been reported to play critical roles in the pathogenesis of many cancers, including liver cancer. However, the interactions between miRNAs and Hippo-YAP/TAZ signaling in the liver are still largely unknown. Here, we review miRNAs that influence the proliferation, migration and apoptosis of tumor cells by modulating Hippo-YAP/TAZ signaling during hepatic tumorigenesis. Previous findings suggest that these miRNAs are potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of liver cancer.
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34
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O’Garro C, Igbineweka L, Ali Z, Mezei M, Mujtaba S. The Biological Significance of Targeting Acetylation-Mediated Gene Regulation for Designing New Mechanistic Tools and Potential Therapeutics. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11030455. [PMID: 33803759 PMCID: PMC8003229 DOI: 10.3390/biom11030455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular interplay between nucleosomal packaging and the chromatin landscape regulates the transcriptional programming and biological outcomes of downstream genes. An array of epigenetic modifications plays a pivotal role in shaping the chromatin architecture, which controls DNA access to the transcriptional machinery. Acetylation of the amino acid lysine is a widespread epigenetic modification that serves as a marker for gene activation, which intertwines the maintenance of cellular homeostasis and the regulation of signaling during stress. The biochemical horizon of acetylation ranges from orchestrating the stability and cellular localization of proteins that engage in the cell cycle to DNA repair and metabolism. Furthermore, lysine acetyltransferases (KATs) modulate the functions of transcription factors that govern cellular response to microbial infections, genotoxic stress, and inflammation. Due to their central role in many biological processes, mutations in KATs cause developmental and intellectual challenges and metabolic disorders. Despite the availability of tools for detecting acetylation, the mechanistic knowledge of acetylation-mediated cellular processes remains limited. This review aims to integrate molecular and structural bases of KAT functions, which would help design highly selective tools for understanding the biology of KATs toward developing new disease treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenise O’Garro
- Department of Biology, Medgar Evers College, City University of New York, Brooklyn, NY 11225, USA; (C.O.); (L.I.); (Z.A.)
| | - Loveth Igbineweka
- Department of Biology, Medgar Evers College, City University of New York, Brooklyn, NY 11225, USA; (C.O.); (L.I.); (Z.A.)
| | - Zonaira Ali
- Department of Biology, Medgar Evers College, City University of New York, Brooklyn, NY 11225, USA; (C.O.); (L.I.); (Z.A.)
| | - Mihaly Mezei
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
| | - Shiraz Mujtaba
- Department of Biology, Medgar Evers College, City University of New York, Brooklyn, NY 11225, USA; (C.O.); (L.I.); (Z.A.)
- Correspondence:
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35
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Soriano Jerez EM, Gibbins JM, Hughes CE. Targeting platelet inhibition receptors for novel therapies: PECAM-1 and G6b-B. Platelets 2021; 32:761-769. [PMID: 33646086 DOI: 10.1080/09537104.2021.1882668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
While current oral antiplatelet therapies benefit many patients, they deregulate the hemostatic balance leaving patients at risk of systemic side-effects such as hemorrhage. Dual antiplatelet treatment is the standard approach, combining aspirin with P2Y12 blockers. These therapies mainly target autocrine activation mechanisms (TxA2, ADP) and, more recently, the use of thrombin or thrombin receptor antagonists have been added to the available approaches. Recent efforts to develop new classes of anti-platelet drugs have begun to focus on primary platelet activation pathways such as through the immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM)-containing collagen receptor GPVI/FcRγ-chain complex. There are already encouraging results from targeting GPVI, with reduced aggregation and smaller arterial thrombi, without major bleeding complications, likely due to overlapping activation signaling pathways with other receptors such as the GPIb-V-IX complex. An alternative approach to reduce platelet activation could be to inhibit this signaling pathway by targeting the inhibitory pathways intrinsic to platelets. Stimulation of endogenous negative modulators could provide more specific inhibition of platelet function, but is this feasible? In this review, we explore the potential of the two major platelet immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif (ITIM)-containing inhibitory receptors, G6b-B and PECAM-1, as antithrombotic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva M Soriano Jerez
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, University of Reading, Reading, UK.,Institute of Experimental Biomedicine, University Hospital Würzburg and Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jonathan M Gibbins
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Craig E Hughes
- Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, University of Reading, Reading, UK
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36
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From 'molecules of life' to new therapeutic approaches, an evolution marked by the advent of artificial intelligence: the cases of chronic pain and neuropathic disorders. Drug Discov Today 2021; 26:1070-1075. [PMID: 33482341 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The large families of the molecules of life are at the origin of the discovery of new compounds with which to treat disease. The arrival of artificial intelligence (AI) has considerably modified the search for innovative bioactive drugs and their therapeutic applications. Conventional approaches at different organizational research levels have emerged and, thus, AI associated with gene and cell therapies could supplant conventional pharmacotherapy and facilitate the diagnosis of pathologies. Using the examples of chronic pain and neuropathic disorders, which affect a large number of patients, I illustrate here how AI could generate new therapeutic approaches, why some compounds are seen as recreational drugs and others as medicinal drugs, and why, in some countries, psychedelic drugs are considered as potential therapeutic drugs but not in others.
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37
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Rice S, Cox DJ, Marsden SP, Nelson A. Efficient unified synthesis of diverse bridged polycyclic scaffolds using a complexity-generating 'stitching' annulation approach. Chem Commun (Camb) 2021; 57:599-602. [PMID: 33345263 DOI: 10.1039/d0cc06975b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Regioselective and stereospecific directed C-H arylation of simple amine substrates, and cyclisation, delivered 30 diverse, three-dimensional scaffolds. The unified approach significantly expanded the range of bridged ring systems that contain both a nitrogen atom and an aromatic ring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Rice
- School of Chemistry, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK. and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Daniel J Cox
- Redbrick Molecular, The Innovation Centre, 217 Portobello, Sheffield, S1 4DP, UK
| | | | - Adam Nelson
- School of Chemistry, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK. and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
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38
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Shagufta, Ahmad I. The race to treat COVID-19: Potential therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 213:113157. [PMID: 33486200 PMCID: PMC7802596 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The unforeseen emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) at the Wuhan province of China in December 2019, subsequently its abrupt spread across the world has severely affected human life. In a short span of time, COVID-19 has sacked more than one million human lives and marked as a severe global pandemic, which is drastically accountable for the adverse effect directly to the human society, particularly the health care system and the economy. The unavailability of approved and effective drugs or vaccines against COVID-19 further created conditions more adverse and terrifying. To win the war against this pandemic within time there is a desperate need for the most adequate therapeutic treatment, which can be achieved by the collaborative research work among scientists worldwide. In continuation of our efforts to support the scientific community, a review has been presented which discusses the structure and the activity of numerous molecules exhibiting promising SARS-CoV-2 and other CoVs inhibition activities. Furthermore, this review offers an overview of the structure, a plausible mechanism of action of SARS-CoV-2, and crucial structural features substantial to inhibit the primary virus-based and host-based targets involved in SARS-CoV-2 treatment. We anticipate optimistically that this perspective will provide the reader and researcher’s better understanding regarding COVID-19 and pave the path in the direction of COVID-19 drug discovery and development paradigm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shagufta
- Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, American University of Ras Al Khaimah, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Irshad Ahmad
- Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, American University of Ras Al Khaimah, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
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Xiu S, Dick A, Ju H, Mirzaie S, Abdi F, Cocklin S, Zhan P, Liu X. Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Entry: Current and Future Opportunities. J Med Chem 2020; 63:12256-12274. [PMID: 32539378 PMCID: PMC7315836 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c00502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Recently, a novel coronavirus initially designated 2019-nCoV but now termed SARS-CoV-2 has emerged and raised global concerns due to its virulence. SARS-CoV-2 is the etiological agent of "coronavirus disease 2019", abbreviated to COVID-19, which despite only being identified at the very end of 2019, has now been classified as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). At this time, no specific prophylactic or postexposure therapy for COVID-19 are currently available. Viral entry is the first step in the SARS-CoV-2 lifecycle and is mediated by the trimeric spike protein. Being the first stage in infection, entry of SARS-CoV-2 into host cells is an extremely attractive therapeutic intervention point. Within this review, we highlight therapeutic intervention strategies for anti-SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and other coronaviruses and speculate upon future directions for SARS-CoV-2 entry inhibitor designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Xiu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Alexej Dick
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Rooms 10307, 10309, and 10315, 245 North 15th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102, United States
| | - Han Ju
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Sako Mirzaie
- Department of Biochemistry, Sanandaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj 6616935391, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Abdi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Islamic Azad University, Tehran North Branch, Tehran 1651153311, Iran
| | - Simon Cocklin
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Rooms 10307, 10309, and 10315, 245 North 15th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102, United States
| | - Peng Zhan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Xinyong Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
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40
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Hanson MG, Katz JS, Ma H, Putterman M, Yezer BA, Petermann O, Reineke TM. Effects of Hydrophobic Tail Length Variation on Surfactant-Mediated Protein Stabilization. Mol Pharm 2020; 17:4302-4311. [PMID: 33054234 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.0c00737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Recently, protein therapeutics have gained significant attention as a result of their enhanced selectivity and diminished side effects compared to traditional small-molecule drugs. Despite their advantages, protein formulations typically suffer from stability issues because of aggregation and denaturation during production and storage, often resulting in detrimental immune responses. Surfactants can be used to stabilize and protect proteins in solution by preventing protein adsorption onto interfaces or by forming protective structures in solution. Herein, a detailed structure-activity relationship study is described, demonstrating the role that hydrophobic tail length plays in surfactant-mediated stabilization of the model therapeutic protein IgG. The FM1000 series, originating from a surfactant scaffold that allows for easy structure modulation, was synthesized by a simple 2-step procedure. First, phenylalanine was acylated with a variety of acyl chlorides of differing lengths to yield n-acyl phenylalanine, which was then coupled to Jeffamine M1000, a polyethylene glycol-based amine, to yield the final surfactant. With this FM1000 series, it was observed that the 14 carbon-long tail surfactant (14FM1000) was optimal at preventing IgG aggregation compared to surfactants with tails that were longer or shorter. Using a combination of dynamic surface tensiometry and quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation, it was hypothesized that 14FM1000 was able to prevent IgG adsorption, and therefore aggregation, by adsorbing appreciably onto surfaces quickly. 14FM1000 had the fastest rate of initial adsorption compared to the other surfactants studied. Short-tail surfactants were slow to and did not adsorb appreciably onto surfaces, allowing IgG adsorption. Although long-tail surfactants were also slow to adsorb, allowing IgG to adsorb and aggregate, their equilibrium adsorption was strong. Additionally, 14FM1000 was the most reversibly adsorbed surfactant, likely improving its ability to desorb and adsorb quickly to transient surfaces, therefore protecting the IgG at each new hydrophobic surface and preventing aggregation. By understanding the structure-activity relationship between surfactants and protein stabilization, we move toward more efficient design of future surfactants increasing the stability and utility of important protein therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mckenna G Hanson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455-0431, United States
| | - Joshua S Katz
- Pharma Solutions, DuPont Nutrition and Biosciences, Wilmington, Delaware 19803, United States
| | - Hua Ma
- Pharma Solutions, DuPont Nutrition and Biosciences, Wilmington, Delaware 19803, United States
| | - Miriam Putterman
- Pharma Solutions, DuPont Nutrition and Biosciences, Wilmington, Delaware 19803, United States
| | - Benjamin A Yezer
- Pharma Solutions, DuPont Nutrition and Biosciences, Wilmington, Delaware 19803, United States
| | - Oliver Petermann
- Pharma Solutions, DuPont Nutrition and Biosciences, Bomlitz, Germany
| | - Theresa M Reineke
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455-0431, United States
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41
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Dammes N, Peer D. Paving the Road for RNA Therapeutics. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2020; 41:755-775. [PMID: 32893005 PMCID: PMC7470715 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2020.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic RNA molecules possess high potential for treating medical conditions if they can successfully reach the target cell upon administration. However, unmodified RNA molecules are rapidly degraded and cleared from the circulation. In addition, their large size and negative charge complicates their passing through the cell membrane. The difficulty of RNA therapy, therefore, lies in the efficient intracellular delivery of intact RNA molecules to the tissue of interest without inducing adverse effects. Here, we outline the recent developments in therapeutic RNA delivery and discuss the wide potential in manipulating the function of cells with RNAs. The focus is not only on the variety of delivery strategies but also on the versatile nature of RNA and its wide applicability. This wide applicability is especially interesting when considering the modular nature of nucleic acids. An optimal delivery vehicle, therefore, can facilitate numerous clinical applications of RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels Dammes
- Laboratory of Precision NanoMedicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel,School of Molecular Cell Biology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel,Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel,Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, and Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel,Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Dan Peer
- Laboratory of Precision NanoMedicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; School of Molecular Cell Biology and Biotechnology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Department of Materials Sciences and Engineering, Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, and Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
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42
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Wang J, Tripathy N, Chung EJ. Targeting and therapeutic peptide-based strategies for polycystic kidney disease. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2020; 161-162:176-189. [PMID: 32866560 PMCID: PMC7736157 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2020.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is characterized by progressive cyst growth and is a leading cause of renal failure worldwide. Currently, there are limited therapeutic options available to PKD patients, and only one drug, tolvaptan, has been FDA-approved to slow cyst progression. Similar to other small molecule drugs, however, tolvaptan is costly, only moderately effective, and causes adverse events leading to high patient dropout rates. Peptides may mitigate many drawbacks of small molecule drugs, as they can be highly tissue-specific, biocompatible, and economically scaled-up. Peptides can function as targeting ligands that direct therapies to diseased renal tissue, or be potent as therapeutic agents themselves. This review discusses various aberrant signaling pathways in PKD and renal receptors that can be potential targets of peptide-mediated strategies. Additionally, peptides utilized in other kidney applications, but may prove useful in the context of PKD, are highlighted. Insights into novel peptide-based solutions that have potential to improve clinical management of PKD are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Nirmalya Tripathy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eun Ji Chung
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Surgery, Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Saljic A, Soattin L, Trachsel DS, Boddum K, Jespersen T. In vivo knockdown of SK3 channels using antisense oligonucleotides protects against atrial fibrillation in rats. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2020; 147:18-26. [PMID: 32768409 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2020.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION GapmeRs are oligonucleotides that bind to a specific RNA sequence and thereby affecting posttranscriptional gene regulation. They therefore hold the potential to manipulate targets where current pharmacological modulators are inefficient or exhibit adverse side effects. Here, we show that a treatment with a GapmeR, mediating knockdown of small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (SK3), has an in vivo protective effect against atrial fibrillation (AF) in rats. MATERIAL AND METHODS A unique SK3-GapmeR design was selected after thorough in vitro evaluation. 22 rats were randomly assigned to receive either 50 mg/kg SK3-GapmeR or vehicle subcutaneously once a week for two weeks. Langendorff experiments were performed seven days after the last injection, where action potential duration (APD90), effective refractory period (ERP) and AF propensity were investigated. SK3 channel activity was evaluated using the SK channel blocker, ICA (N-(pyridin-2-yl)-4-(pyridine-2-yl)thiazol-2-amine). SK3 protein expression was assessed by Western Blot. RESULTS The designed GapmeR effectively down-regulate the SK3 protein expression in the heart (48% downregulation, p = 0.0095) and did indeed protect against AF. Duration of AF episodes elicited by burst pacing in the rats treated with SK3-GapmeR was reduced 78% compared to controls (3.7 s vs. 16.8 s, p = 0.0353). The number of spontaneous AF episodes were decreased by 68% in the SK3-GapmeR group (39 episodes versus 123 in the control group, respectively) and were also significantly shorter in duration (7.2 s versus 29.7 s in the control group, p = 0.0327). Refractoriness was not altered at sinus rhythm, but ERP prolongation following ICA application was blunted in the SK3-GapmeR group. CONCLUSION The selected GapmeR silenced the cardiac SK3 channels, thereby preventing AF in rats. Thus, GapmeR technology can be applied as an experimental tool of downregulation of cardiac proteins and could potentially offer a novel modality for treatment of cardiac diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnela Saljic
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Luca Soattin
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom; Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dagmar S Trachsel
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kim Boddum
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Jespersen
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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44
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Ramadass V, Vaiyapuri T, Tergaonkar V. Small Molecule NF-κB Pathway Inhibitors in Clinic. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E5164. [PMID: 32708302 PMCID: PMC7404026 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling is implicated in all major human chronic diseases, with its role in transcription of hundreds of gene well established in the literature. This has propelled research into targeting the NF-κB pathways for modulating expression of those genes and the diseases mediated by them. In-spite of the critical, but often promiscuous role played by this pathway and the inhibition causing adverse drug reaction, currently many biologics, macromolecules, and small molecules that modulate this pathway are in the market or in clinical trials. Furthermore, many marketed drugs that were later found to also have NF-κB targeting activity were repurposed for new therapeutic interventions. Despite the rising importance of biologics in drug discovery, small molecules got around 76% of US-FDA (Food and Drug Administration-US) approval in the last decade. This encouraged us to review information regarding clinically relevant small molecule inhibitors of the NF-κB pathway from cell surface receptor stimulation to nuclear signaling. We have also highlighted the underexplored targets in this pathway that have potential to succeed in clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Singapore 138673, Singapore;
- Department of Pathology, NUS, Singapore 117597, Singapore
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Moore B, Grinnell C, Boumajny B, Chen R, Frenkel R, Vilmorin P, Sosic Z, Khattak S. A multi‐faceted approach to analyzing glucose heat‐degradants and evaluating impact to a
CHO
cell culture process. AIChE J 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/aic.16295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Moore
- Cell Culture DevelopmentBiogen Durham North Carolina USA
| | - Chris Grinnell
- Materials ScienceBiogen Davis Dr. Durham North Carolina USA
| | - Boris Boumajny
- Analytical DevelopmentBiogen Cambridge Massachusetts USA
| | - Rachel Chen
- Analytical DevelopmentBiogen Cambridge Massachusetts USA
| | - Ruth Frenkel
- Analytical DevelopmentBiogen Cambridge Massachusetts USA
| | - Phil Vilmorin
- Materials ScienceBiogen Davis Dr. Durham North Carolina USA
| | - Zoran Sosic
- Analytical DevelopmentBiogen Cambridge Massachusetts USA
| | - Sarwat Khattak
- Cell Culture DevelopmentBiogen Durham North Carolina USA
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Structural and In Silico Characterization of Small Molecules Isolated from Eichhornia crassipes. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:1375639. [PMID: 32508941 PMCID: PMC7246410 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1375639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Eichhornia crassipes has been reported to have various medicinal properties including anticancer activities. The plant was collected from the Shire river in Malawi, and two cytotoxic compounds, benzene-1,4-diol and nonanedioic acid, were isolated and characterized for the first time in the leaves and roots of the plant. 1H NMR, COSY, HSQC, HMBC, 13-C, and LCMS spectroscopic experimental techniques were used to identify the compounds in their pure forms. In silico experiments showed that both compounds do not have AMES toxicity and do not inhibit cytochrome P450 enzymes, but nonanedioic acid acts as a CYP2D6 substrate. This work showed that Eichhornia crassipes can be considered to have a role as a source of potential hits and leads to drug development that can be rationally optimized for drugs.
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Gurevich VV, Gurevich EV. Targeting arrestin interactions with its partners for therapeutic purposes. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2019; 121:169-197. [PMID: 32312421 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2019.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Most vertebrates express four arrestin subtypes: two visual ones in photoreceptor cells and two non-visuals expressed ubiquitously. The latter two interact with hundreds of G protein-coupled receptors, certain receptors of other types, and numerous non-receptor partners. Arrestins have no enzymatic activity and work by interacting with other proteins, often assembling multi-protein signaling complexes. Arrestin binding to every partner affects cell signaling, including pathways regulating cell survival, proliferation, and death. Thus, targeting individual arrestin interactions has therapeutic potential. This requires precise identification of protein-protein interaction sites of both participants and the choice of the side of each interaction which would be most advantageous to target. The interfaces involved in each interaction can be disrupted by small molecule therapeutics, as well as by carefully selected peptides of the other partner that do not participate in the interactions that should not be targeted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vsevolod V Gurevich
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Eugenia V Gurevich
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
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48
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XIAP as a Target of New Small Organic Natural Molecules Inducing Human Cancer Cell Death. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11091336. [PMID: 31505859 PMCID: PMC6770071 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11091336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) is an emerging crucial therapeutic target in cancer. We report on the discovery and characterisation of small organic molecules from Piper genus plants exhibiting XIAP antagonism, namely erioquinol, a quinol substituted in the 4-position with an alkenyl group and the alkenylphenols eriopodols A–C. Another isolated compound was originally identified as gibbilimbol B. Erioquinol was the most potent inhibitor of human cancer cell viability when compared with gibbilimbol B and eriopodol A was listed as intermediate. Gibbilimbol B and eriopodol A induced apoptosis through mitochondrial permeabilisation and caspase activation while erioquinol acted on cell fate via caspase-independent/non-apoptotic mechanisms, likely involving mitochondrial dysfunctions and aberrant generation of reactive oxygen species. In silico modelling and molecular approaches suggested that all molecules inhibit XIAP by binding to XIAP-baculoviral IAP repeat domain. This demonstrates a novel aspect of XIAP as a key determinant of tumour control, at the molecular crossroad of caspase-dependent/independent cell death pathway and indicates molecular aspects to develop tumour-effective XIAP antagonists.
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49
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Catalani E, Buonanno F, Lupidi G, Bongiorni S, Belardi R, Zecchini S, Giovarelli M, Coazzoli M, De Palma C, Perrotta C, Clementi E, Prantera G, Marcantoni E, Ortenzi C, Fausto AM, Picchietti S, Cervia D. The Natural Compound Climacostol as a Prodrug Strategy Based on pH Activation for Efficient Delivery of Cytotoxic Small Agents. Front Chem 2019; 7:463. [PMID: 31316972 PMCID: PMC6609918 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2019.00463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We synthesized and characterized MOMO as a new small molecule analog of the cytotoxic natural product climacostol efficiently activated in mild extracellular acidosis. The synthesis of MOMO had a key step in the Wittig olefination for the construction of the carbon-carbon double bond in the alkenyl moiety of climacostol. The possibility of obtaining the target (Z)-alkenyl MOMO derivative in very good yield and without presence of the less active (E)-diastereomer was favored from the methoxymethyl ether (MOM)-protecting group of hydroxyl functions in aromatic ring of climacostol aldehyde intermediate. Of interest, the easy removal of MOM-protecting group in a weakly acidic environment allowed us to obtain a great quantity of climacostol in biologically active (Z)-configuration. Results obtained in free-living ciliates that share the same micro-environment of the climacostol natural producer Climacostomum virens demonstrated that MOMO is well-tolerated in a physiological environment, while its cytotoxicity is rapidly and efficiently triggered at pH 6.3. In addition, the cytostatic vs. cytotoxic effects of acidified-MOMO can be modulated in a dose-dependent manner. In mouse melanoma cells, MOMO displayed a marked pH-sensitivity since its cytotoxic and apoptotic effects become evident only in mild extracellular acidosis. Data also suggested MOMO being preferentially activated in the unique extra-acidic microenvironment that characterizes tumoural cells. Finally, the use of the model organism Drosophila melanogaster fed with an acidic diet supported the efficient activity and oral delivery of MOMO molecule in vivo. MOMO affected oviposition of mating adults and larvae eclosion. Reduced survival of flies was due to lethality during the larval stages while emerging larvae retained their ability to develop into adults. Interestingly, the gut of eclosed larvae exhibited an extended damage (cell death by apoptosis) and the brain tissue was also affected (reduced mitosis), demonstrating that orally activated MOMO efficiently targets different tissues of the developing fly. These results provided a proof-of-concept study on the pH-dependence of MOMO effects. In this respect, MOM-protection emerges as a potential prodrug strategy which deserves to be further investigated for the generation of efficient pH-sensitive small organic molecules as pharmacologically active cytotoxic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Catalani
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems, Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Federico Buonanno
- Laboratory of Protistology and Biology Education, Department of Education, Cultural Heritage and Tourism, Università degli Studi di Macerata, Macerata, Italy
| | - Gabriele Lupidi
- School of Sciences and Technologies, Section of Chemistry, Università degli Studi di Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Silvia Bongiorni
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences, Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Riccardo Belardi
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems, Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Silvia Zecchini
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco” (DIBIC), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Giovarelli
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco” (DIBIC), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Coazzoli
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco” (DIBIC), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Clara De Palma
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital “Luigi Sacco”-ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristiana Perrotta
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco” (DIBIC), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Emilio Clementi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco” (DIBIC), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Scientific Institute IRCCS “Eugenio Medea”, Bosisio Parini, Italy
| | - Giorgio Prantera
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences, Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Enrico Marcantoni
- School of Sciences and Technologies, Section of Chemistry, Università degli Studi di Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Claudio Ortenzi
- Laboratory of Protistology and Biology Education, Department of Education, Cultural Heritage and Tourism, Università degli Studi di Macerata, Macerata, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Fausto
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems, Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Simona Picchietti
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems, Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Davide Cervia
- Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems, Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
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50
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Gurevich VV, Gurevich EV. GPCR Signaling Regulation: The Role of GRKs and Arrestins. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:125. [PMID: 30837883 PMCID: PMC6389790 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 328] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Every animal species expresses hundreds of different G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that respond to a wide variety of external stimuli. GPCRs-driven signaling pathways are involved in pretty much every physiological function and in many pathologies. Therefore, GPCRs are targeted by about a third of clinically used drugs. The signaling of most GPCRs via G proteins is terminated by the phosphorylation of active receptor by specific kinases (GPCR kinases, or GRKs) and subsequent binding of arrestin proteins, that selectively recognize active phosphorylated receptors. In addition, GRKs and arrestins play a role in multiple signaling pathways in the cell, both GPCR-initiated and receptor-independent. Here we focus on the mechanisms of GRK- and arrestin-mediated regulation of GPCR signaling, which includes homologous desensitization and redirection of signaling to additional pathways by bound arrestins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vsevolod V Gurevich
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Eugenia V Gurevich
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
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