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Bourgeois NM, Wei L, Ho NNT, Neal ML, Seferos D, Tongogara T, Mast FD, Aitchison JD, Kaushansky A. Multiple receptor tyrosine kinases regulate dengue infection of hepatocytes. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1264525. [PMID: 38585651 PMCID: PMC10995305 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1264525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dengue is an arboviral disease causing severe illness in over 500,000 people each year. Currently, there is no way to constrain dengue in the clinic. Host kinase regulators of dengue virus (DENV) infection have the potential to be disrupted by existing therapeutics to prevent infection and/or disease progression. Methods To evaluate kinase regulation of DENV infection, we performed kinase regression (KiR), a machine learning approach that predicts kinase regulators of infection using existing drug-target information and a small drug screen. We infected hepatocytes with DENV in vitro in the presence of a panel of 38 kinase inhibitors then quantified the effect of each inhibitor on infection rate. We employed elastic net regularization on these data to obtain predictions of which of 291 kinases are regulating DENV infection. Results Thirty-six kinases were predicted to have a functional role. Intriguingly, seven of the predicted kinases - EPH receptor A4 (EPHA4), EPH receptor B3 (EPHB3), EPH receptor B4 (EPHB4), erb-b2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (ERBB2), fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2), Insulin like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), and ret proto-oncogene (RET) - belong to the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family, which are already therapeutic targets in the clinic. We demonstrate that predicted RTKs are expressed at higher levels in DENV infected cells. Knockdown of EPHB4, ERBB2, FGFR2, or IGF1R reduces DENV infection in hepatocytes. Finally, we observe differential temporal induction of ERBB2 and IGF1R following DENV infection, highlighting their unique roles in regulating DENV. Discussion Collectively, our findings underscore the significance of multiple RTKs in DENV infection and advocate further exploration of RTK-oriented interventions against dengue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha M. Bourgeois
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Ling Wei
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Nhi N. T. Ho
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Maxwell L. Neal
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Denali Seferos
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Tinotenda Tongogara
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Fred D. Mast
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - John D. Aitchison
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Alexis Kaushansky
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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Cowell E, Jaber H, Kris LP, Fitzgerald MG, Sanders VM, Norbury AJ, Eyre NS, Carr JM. Vav proteins do not influence dengue virus replication but are associated with induction of phospho-ERK, IL-6, and viperin mRNA following DENV infection in vitro. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0239123. [PMID: 38054722 PMCID: PMC10782993 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02391-23] [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: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Dengue disease is characterized by an inflammatory-mediated immunopathology, with elevated levels of circulating factors including TNF-α and IL-6. If the damaging inflammatory pathways could be blocked without loss of antiviral responses or exacerbating viral replication, then this would be of potential therapeutic benefit. The study here has investigated the Vav guanine exchange factors as a potential alternative signaling pathway that may drive dengue virus (DENV)-induced inflammatory responses, with a focus on Vav1 and 2. While Vav proteins were positively associated with mRNA for inflammatory cytokines, blocking Vav signaling didn't affect DENV replication but prevented DENV-induction of p-ERK and enhanced IL-6 (inflammatory) and viperin (antiviral) mRNA. These initial data suggest that Vav proteins could be a target that does not compromise control of viral replication and should be investigated further for broader impact on host inflammatory responses, in settings such as antibody-dependent enhancement of infection and in different cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangeline Cowell
- College of Medicine and Public Health and Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Hawraa Jaber
- College of Medicine and Public Health and Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Luke P. Kris
- College of Medicine and Public Health and Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Madeleine G. Fitzgerald
- College of Medicine and Public Health and Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Valeria M. Sanders
- College of Medicine and Public Health and Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Aidan J. Norbury
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nicholas S. Eyre
- College of Medicine and Public Health and Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jillian M. Carr
- College of Medicine and Public Health and Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Pliego Zamora A, Kim J, Vajjhala PR, Thygesen SJ, Watterson D, Modhiran N, Bielefeldt-Ohmann H, Stacey KJ. Kinetics of severe dengue virus infection and development of gut pathology in mice. J Virol 2023; 97:e0125123. [PMID: 37850747 PMCID: PMC10688336 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01251-23] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Dengue virus, an arbovirus, causes an estimated 100 million symptomatic infections annually and is an increasing threat as the mosquito range expands with climate change. Dengue epidemics are a substantial strain on local economies and health infrastructure, and an understanding of what drives severe disease may enable treatments to help reduce hospitalizations. Factors exacerbating dengue disease are debated, but gut-related symptoms are much more frequent in severe than mild cases. Using mouse models of dengue infection, we have shown that inflammation and damage are earlier and more severe in the gut than in other tissues. Additionally, we observed impairment of the gut mucus layer and propose that breakdown of the barrier function exacerbates inflammation and promotes severe dengue disease. This idea is supported by recent data from human patients showing elevated bacteria-derived molecules in dengue patient serum. Therapies aiming to maintain gut integrity may help to abrogate severe dengue disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Pliego Zamora
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jaehyeon Kim
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Parimala R. Vajjhala
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sara J. Thygesen
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Daniel Watterson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Naphak Modhiran
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Helle Bielefeldt-Ohmann
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Katryn J. Stacey
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
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Mosquera-Sulbaran JA, Pedreañez A, Hernandez-Fonseca JP, Hernandez-Fonseca H. Angiotensin II and dengue. Arch Virol 2023; 168:191. [PMID: 37368044 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-023-05814-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Dengue is a disease caused by a flavivirus that is transmitted principally by the bite of an Aedes aegypti mosquito and represents a major public-health problem. Many studies have been carried out to identify soluble factors that are involved in the pathogenesis of this infection. Cytokines, soluble factors, and oxidative stress have been reported to be involved in the development of severe disease. Angiotensin II (Ang II) is a hormone with the ability to induce the production of cytokines and soluble factors related to the inflammatory processes and coagulation disorders observed in dengue. However, a direct involvement of Ang II in this disease has not been demonstrated. This review primarily summarizes the pathophysiology of dengue, the role of Ang II in various diseases, and reports that are highly suggestive of the involvement of this hormone in dengue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus A Mosquera-Sulbaran
- Instituto de Investigaciones Clínicas "Dr. Américo Negrette", Facultad de Medicina, Universidad del Zulia, Maracaibo, 4001-A, Venezuela.
| | - Adriana Pedreañez
- Cátedra de Inmunología, Escuela de Bioanálisis, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad del Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | - Juan Pablo Hernandez-Fonseca
- Instituto de Investigaciones Clínicas "Dr. Américo Negrette", Facultad de Medicina, Universidad del Zulia, Maracaibo, 4001-A, Venezuela
- Servicio de Microscopia Electronica del Centro Nacional de Biotecnologia (CNB- CSIC) Madrid, Madrid, España
| | - Hugo Hernandez-Fonseca
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Saint George's University, True Blue, West Indies, Grenada
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Roa-Linares VC, Escudero-Flórez M, Vicente-Manzanares M, Gallego-Gómez JC. Host Cell Targets for Unconventional Antivirals against RNA Viruses. Viruses 2023; 15:v15030776. [PMID: 36992484 PMCID: PMC10058429 DOI: 10.3390/v15030776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the importance of RNA-based viruses. The most prominent members of this group are SARS-CoV-2 (coronavirus), HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), EBOV (Ebola virus), DENV (dengue virus), HCV (hepatitis C virus), ZIKV (Zika virus), CHIKV (chikungunya virus), and influenza A virus. With the exception of retroviruses which produce reverse transcriptase, the majority of RNA viruses encode RNA-dependent RNA polymerases which do not include molecular proofreading tools, underlying the high mutation capacity of these viruses as they multiply in the host cells. Together with their ability to manipulate the immune system of the host in different ways, their high mutation frequency poses a challenge to develop effective and durable vaccination and/or treatments. Consequently, the use of antiviral targeting agents, while an important part of the therapeutic strategy against infection, may lead to the selection of drug-resistant variants. The crucial role of the host cell replicative and processing machinery is essential for the replicative cycle of the viruses and has driven attention to the potential use of drugs directed to the host machinery as therapeutic alternatives to treat viral infections. In this review, we discuss small molecules with antiviral effects that target cellular factors in different steps of the infectious cycle of many RNA viruses. We emphasize the repurposing of FDA-approved drugs with broad-spectrum antiviral activity. Finally, we postulate that the ferruginol analog (18-(phthalimide-2-yl) ferruginol) is a potential host-targeted antiviral.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicky C Roa-Linares
- Molecular and Translation Medicine Group, University of Antioquia, Medellin 050010, Colombia
| | - Manuela Escudero-Flórez
- Molecular and Translation Medicine Group, University of Antioquia, Medellin 050010, Colombia
| | - Miguel Vicente-Manzanares
- Molecular Mechanisms Program, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Juan C Gallego-Gómez
- Molecular and Translation Medicine Group, University of Antioquia, Medellin 050010, Colombia
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Shi LZ, Chen X, Cao HH, Tian CY, Zou LF, Yu JH, Lu ZB, Zhao W, Liu JS, Yu LZ. N-Butanol Extract of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma Inhibits Dengue Virus through Targeting Envelope Protein. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:263. [PMID: 37259408 PMCID: PMC9962983 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND At present, about half of the world's population is at risk of being infected with dengue virus (DENV). However, there are no specific drugs to prevent or treat DENV infection. Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizome, a well-known traditional Chinese medicine, performs multiple pharmacological activities, including exerting antiviral effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-DENV effects of n-butanol extract from Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizome (GRE). METHODS Compounds analysis of GRE was conducted via ultra-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). The antiviral activities of GRE were determined by the CCK-8 assay, plaque assay, qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and the immunofluorescence assay. The DENV-infected suckling mice model was constructed to explore the antiviral effects of GRE in vivo. RESULTS Four components in GRE were analyzed by UHPLC-MS/MS, including glycyrrhizic acid, glycyrrhetnic acid, liquiritigenin, and isoliquiritigenin. GRE inhibited the attachment process of the virus replication cycle and reduced the expression of the E protein in cell models. In the in vivo study, GRE significantly relieved clinical symptoms and prolong survival duration. GRE also significantly decreased viremia, reduced the viral load in multiple organs, and inhibited the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in DENV-infected suckling mice. CONCLUSIONS GRE exhibited significant inhibitory activities in the adsorption stage of the DENV-2 replication cycle by targeting the envelope protein. Thus, GRE might be a promising candidate for the treatment of DENV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Zhu Shi
- Third Level Research Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Third Level Research Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Hui-Hui Cao
- Third Level Research Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chun-Yang Tian
- Third Level Research Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Li-Fang Zou
- Third Level Research Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jian-Hai Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Zi-Bin Lu
- Third Level Research Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jun-Shan Liu
- Third Level Research Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Lin-Zhong Yu
- Third Level Research Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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Valencia HJ, Mendonça DC, Marinho PES, Henriques LR, Drumond BP, Bonjardim CA. MEK/ERK activation plays a decisive role in Zika virus morphogenesis and release. Arch Virol 2023; 168:47. [PMID: 36609616 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-022-05632-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Brazil has experienced an increase in outbreaks caused by flaviviruses. The high incidence of dengue fever, the morbidity of Zika in children, and the high mortality of yellow fever have affected millions in recent years. Deciphering host-virus interactions is important for treating viral infections, and the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) are an interesting target because of their role in flavivirus replication. In particular, mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK), which targets extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK), is necessary for dengue and yellow fever infections. In this study, we evaluated the role of the MEK/ERK pathway and the effect of the MEK inhibitor trametinib on the Asian ZIKV strain PE243 and the prototype African ZIKV strain MR766, addressing genome replication, morphogenesis, and viral release. ZIKV infection stimulated ERK phosphorylation in Vero cells at 12 and 18 hours postinfection (hpi). Trametinib showed sustained antiviral activity, inhibiting both ZIKV strains for at least four days, and electron microscopy showed probable inhibition of ZIKV morphogenesis. ZIKV PE243 can complete one cycle in Vero cells in 14 hours; genome replication was detected around 8 hpi, intracellular viral particles at 12 hpi, and extracellular progeny at 14 hpi. Treatments at 6-hour intervals showed that trametinib inhibited late stages of viral replication, and the titration of intra- or extracellular virions showed that the treatment especially affected viral morphogenesis and release. Thus, ZIKV stimulated ERK phosphorylation during viral morphogenesis and release, which correlated with trametinib inhibiting both the signaling pathway and viral replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo José Valencia
- Grupo de Transdução de Sinal/Flavivírus, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. .,Laboratório de Vírus, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. .,Laboratorio de Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Investigación en Ganadería y Biotecnología (IGBI), Universidad Nacional Toribio Rodríguez de Mendoza de Amazonas (UNTRM), Chachapoyas, Amazonas, Peru.
| | - Diogo Corrêa Mendonça
- Grupo de Transdução de Sinal/Flavivírus, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Laboratório de Vírus, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Paula Eillanny Silva Marinho
- Laboratório de Vírus, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Lethícia Ribeiro Henriques
- Grupo de Transdução de Sinal/Flavivírus, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Laboratório de Vírus, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Núcleo de Apoio Técnico ao Ensino, Pesquisa e Extensão-Instituto de Ciências Ambientais, Químicas e Farmacêuticas-Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema, SP, Brazil
| | - Betânia Paiva Drumond
- Laboratório de Vírus, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Cláudio Antônio Bonjardim
- Grupo de Transdução de Sinal/Flavivírus, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Laboratório de Vírus, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Koch-Heier J, Schönsiegel A, Waidele LM, Volk J, Füll Y, Wallasch C, Canisius S, Burnet M, Planz O. Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and Antiviral Efficacy of the MEK Inhibitor Zapnometinib in Animal Models and in Humans. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:893635. [PMID: 35784712 PMCID: PMC9240354 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.893635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) inhibitor zapnometinib is in development to treat acute viral infections like COVID-19 and influenza. While the antiviral efficacy of zapnometinib is well documented, further data on target engagement/pharmacodynamics (PD) and pharmacokinetics (PK) are needed. Here, we report zapnometinib PK and PD parameters in mice, hamsters, dogs, and healthy human volunteers. Mice received 25 mg/kg/day zapnometinib (12.5 mg/kg p. o. twice daily, 8 h interval). Syrian hamsters received 30 mg/kg (15 mg/kg twice daily) or 60 mg/kg/day once daily. Beagle dogs were administered 300 mg/kg/day, and healthy human volunteers were administered 100, 300, 600 and 900 mg zapnometinib (once daily p. o.). Regardless of species or formulation, zapnometinib maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) was reached between 2–4 h after administration with an elimination half-life of 4–5 h in dogs, 8 h in mice or hamsters and 19 h in human subjects. Doses were sufficient to cause up to 80% MEK inhibition. Across all species approximately 10 μg/ml zapnometinib was appropriate to inhibit 50% of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) MEK activity. In mice, a 50%–80% reduction of MEK activity was sufficient to reduce influenza virus titer in the lungs by more than 90%. In general, while >50% MEK inhibition was reached in vivo at most doses, 80% inhibition in PBMCs required significantly higher doses and appeared to be the practical maximal level obtained in vivo. However, the period of reduced phosphorylated extracellular-signal regulated kinase (pERK), a measure of MEK inhibition, was maintained even after elimination of zapnometinib from plasma, suggesting a sustained effect on MEK consistent with regulatory effects or a slow off-rate. These data suggest a target plasma Cmax of at least 10 μg/ml zapnometinib in further clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Koch-Heier
- Department of Immunology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Atriva Therapeutics GmbH, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Annika Schönsiegel
- Department of Immunology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Atriva Therapeutics GmbH, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Lara Maria Waidele
- Department of Immunology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Atriva Therapeutics GmbH, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Julian Volk
- Department of Immunology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Atriva Therapeutics GmbH, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Yvonne Füll
- Atriva Therapeutics GmbH, Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Oliver Planz
- Department of Immunology, Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- Atriva Therapeutics GmbH, Tuebingen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Oliver Planz,
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Induction of COX-2 by feline calicivirus via activation of the MEK1-ERK1/2 pathway, and attenuation of feline lung inflammation and injury by MEK1 inhibitor AZD6244 (selumetinib). Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 604:8-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.02.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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10
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Evaluation of kinase inhibitors as potential therapeutics for flavivirus infections. Arch Virol 2021; 166:1433-1438. [PMID: 33683474 PMCID: PMC7938686 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-021-05021-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The recent introduction of Zika virus (ZIKV), the recurrence of dengue virus (DENV), and the lethality of yellow fever virus (YFV) have had a significant impact on Brazilian society and public health. Here, we targeted two cellular kinases implicated in cell proliferation and cancer that are also important for viral replication: mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) and Src. We used two MEK inhibitors - trametinib and selumetinib - and two Src inhibitors - saracatinib and bosutinib - to inhibit ZIKV, DENV, and YFV replication in cell culture. The cytotoxicity of the four inhibitors was determined by the observation of abnormal morphology and quantification of adherent cells by crystal violet staining. The antiviral activity of these drugs was assessed based on the reduction of plaque-forming units in cell culture as evidence of the inhibition of the replication of the selected flaviviruses. All four inhibitors showed antiviral activity, but among them, trametinib was the safest and most efficacious against all of the viruses, inhibiting the replication of ZIKV and YFV by 1000-fold, and DENV2/3 by nearly 100-fold. This pan-antiviral effect shows that trametinib could be repurposed for the treatment of flaviviral infections.
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Chen RE, Diamond MS. Dengue mouse models for evaluating pathogenesis and countermeasures. Curr Opin Virol 2020; 43:50-58. [PMID: 32950933 PMCID: PMC7774505 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Dengue virus (DENV) causes the most prevalent arbovirus illness worldwide and is responsible for many debilitating epidemics. The four circulating DENV serotypes infect humans and can cause asymptomatic, mild, moderate, or severe Dengue. Because of the global morbidity and mortality due to Dengue, deployment of a safe and effective tetravalent vaccine has been a high priority, and to date, a partially realized goal. The study of pathogenesis and development of DENV therapeutics and vaccines has been limited by few animal models that recapitulate key features of human disease. Over the past two decades, mouse models of DENV infection have evolved with increasing success. Here, we review the utilization and limitations of mice for studying DENV pathogenesis and evaluating countermeasures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita E Chen
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Michael S Diamond
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; The Andrew M. and Jane M. Bursky Center for Human Immunology & Immunotherapy Programs, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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Sfera A, Osorio C, Jafri N, Diaz EL, Campo Maldonado JE. Intoxication With Endogenous Angiotensin II: A COVID-19 Hypothesis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1472. [PMID: 32655579 PMCID: PMC7325923 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has spread rapidly around the globe. However, despite its high pathogenicity and transmissibility, the severity of the associated disease, COVID-19, varies widely. While the prognosis is favorable in most patients, critical illness, manifested by respiratory distress, thromboembolism, shock, and multi-organ failure, has been reported in about 5% of cases. Several studies have associated poor COVID-19 outcomes with the exhaustion of natural killer cells and cytotoxic T cells, lymphopenia, and elevated serum levels of D-dimer. In this article, we propose a common pathophysiological denominator for these negative prognostic markers, endogenous, angiotensin II toxicity. We hypothesize that, like in avian influenza, the outlook of COVID-19 is negatively correlated with the intracellular accumulation of angiotensin II promoted by the viral blockade of its degrading enzyme receptors. In this model, upregulated angiotensin II causes premature vascular senescence, leading to dysfunctional coagulation, and immunity. We further hypothesize that angiotensin II blockers and immune checkpoint inhibitors may be salutary for COVID-19 patients with critical illness by reversing both the clotting and immune defects (Graphical Abstract).
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Affiliation(s)
- Adonis Sfera
- Patton State Hospital, San Bernardino, CA, United States
| | - Carolina Osorio
- Department of Psychiatry, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Nyla Jafri
- Patton State Hospital, San Bernardino, CA, United States
| | - Eddie Lee Diaz
- Patton State Hospital, San Bernardino, CA, United States
| | - Jose E Campo Maldonado
- Department of Medicine, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg, TX, United States
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