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Santema LL, Rotilio L, Xiang R, Tjallinks G, Guallar V, Mattevi A, Fraaije MW. Discovery and biochemical characterization of thermostable glycerol oxidases. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:61. [PMID: 38183484 PMCID: PMC10771423 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12883-9] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Alditol oxidases are promising tools for the biocatalytic oxidation of glycerol to more valuable chemicals. By integrating in silico bioprospecting with cell-free protein synthesis and activity screening, an effective pipeline was developed to rapidly identify enzymes that are active on glycerol. Three thermostable alditol oxidases from Actinobacteria Bacterium, Streptomyces thermoviolaceus, and Thermostaphylospora chromogena active on glycerol were discovered. The characterization of these three flavoenzymes demonstrated their glycerol oxidation activities, preference for alkaline conditions, and excellent thermostabilities with melting temperatures higher than 75 °C. Structural elucidation of the alditol oxidase from Actinobacteria Bacterium highlighted a constellation of side chains that engage the substrate through several hydrogen bonds, a histidine residue covalently bound to the FAD prosthetic group, and a tunnel leading to the active site. Upon computational simulations of substrate binding, a double mutant targeting a residue pair at the tunnel entrance was created and found to display an improved thermal stability and catalytic efficiency for glycerol oxidation. The hereby described alditol oxidases form a valuable panel of oxidative biocatalysts that can perform regioselective oxidation of glycerol and other polyols. KEY POINTS: • Rapid pipeline designed to identify putative oxidases • Biochemical and structural characterization of alditol oxidases • Glycerol oxidation to more valuable derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars L Santema
- Molecular Enzymology, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Rotilio
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 9, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ruite Xiang
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, 08034, Spain
| | - Gwen Tjallinks
- Molecular Enzymology, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Victor Guallar
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, 08034, Spain.
| | - Andrea Mattevi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, via Ferrata 9, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Marco W Fraaije
- Molecular Enzymology, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747AG, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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2
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Mercurio I, D’Abrosca G, della Valle M, Malgieri G, Fattorusso R, Isernia C, Russo L, Di Gaetano S, Pedone EM, Pirone L, Del Gatto A, Zaccaro L, Alberga D, Saviano M, Mangiatordi GF. Molecular interactions between a diphenyl scaffold and PED/PEA15: Implications for type II diabetes therapeutics targeting PED/PEA15 - Phospholipase D1 interaction. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2001-2010. [PMID: 38770160 PMCID: PMC11103223 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.04.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
In a recent study, we have identified BPH03 as a promising scaffold for the development of compounds aimed at modulating the interaction between PED/PEA15 (Phosphoprotein Enriched in Diabetes/Phosphoprotein Enriched in Astrocytes 15) and PLD1 (phospholipase D1), with potential applications in type II diabetes therapy. PED/PEA15 is known to be overexpressed in certain forms of diabetes, where it binds to PLD1, thereby reducing insulin-stimulated glucose transport. The inhibition of this interaction reestablishes basal glucose transport, indicating PED as a potential target of ligands capable to recover glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. In this study, we employ computational methods to provide a detailed description of BPH03 interaction with PED, evidencing the presence of a hidden druggable pocket within its PLD1 binding surface. We also elucidate the conformational changes that occur during PED interaction with BPH03. Moreover, we report new NMR data supporting the in-silico findings and indicating that BPH03 disrupts the PED/PLD1 interface displacing PLD1 from its interaction with PED. Our study represents a significant advancement toward the development of potential therapeutics for the treatment of type II diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Mercurio
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Amendola 122/o, 70126 Bari, Italy
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Gianluca D’Abrosca
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale Pinto 1, 71122 Foggia, Italy
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Maria della Valle
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Gaetano Malgieri
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Roberto Fattorusso
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Carla Isernia
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Luigi Russo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Sonia Di Gaetano
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Emilia Maria Pedone
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Luciano Pirone
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Annarita Del Gatto
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Zaccaro
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Domenico Alberga
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Amendola 122/o, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Michele Saviano
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
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3
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Rojas-Prats E, Martinez-Gonzalez L, Gil C, Ramírez D, Martinez A. Druggable cavities and allosteric modulators of the cell division cycle 7 (CDC7) kinase. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2024; 39:2301767. [PMID: 38205514 PMCID: PMC10786434 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2024.2301767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell division cycle 7 kinase (CDC7) has been found overexpressed in many cancer cell lines being also one of the kinases involved in the nuclear protein TDP-43 phosphorylation in vivo. Thus, inhibitors of CDC7 are emerging drug candidates for the treatment of oncological and neurodegenerative unmet diseases. All the known CDC7 inhibitors are ATP-competitives, lacking of selectivity enough for success in clinical trials. As allosteric sites are less conserved among kinase proteins, discovery of allosteric modulators of CDC7 is a great challenge and opportunity in this field.Using different computational approaches, we have here identified new druggable cavities on the human CDC7 structure and subsequently selective CDC7 inhibitors with allosteric modulation mainly targeting the pockets where the interaction between this kinase and its activator DBF4 takes place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Rojas-Prats
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas -Margarita Salas-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Loreto Martinez-Gonzalez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas -Margarita Salas-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de 13 Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Gil
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas -Margarita Salas-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Ramírez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Ana Martinez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas -Margarita Salas-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de 13 Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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4
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Guerra J, Belleri M, Paiardi G, Tobia C, Capoferri D, Corli M, Scalvini E, Ghirimoldi M, Manfredi M, Wade RC, Presta M, Mignani L. Impact of an irreversible β-galactosylceramidase inhibitor on the lipid profile of zebrafish embryos. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1397-1407. [PMID: 38596316 PMCID: PMC11002810 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Krabbe disease is a sphingolipidosis characterized by the genetic deficiency of the acid hydrolase β-galactosylceramidase (GALC). Most of the studies concerning the biological role of GALC performed on Krabbe patients and Galc-deficient twitcher mice (an authentic animal model of the disease) indicate that the pathogenesis of this disorder is the consequence of the accumulation of the neurotoxic GALC substrate β-galactosylsphingosine (psychosine), ignoring the possibility that this enzyme may exert a wider biological impact. Indeed, limited information is available about the effect of GALC downregulation on the cell lipidome in adult and developing organisms. The teleost zebrafish (Danio rerio) has emerged as a useful platform to model human genetic diseases, including sphingolipidoses, and two GALC co-orthologs have been identified in zebrafish (galca and galcb). Here, we investigated the effect of the competitive and irreversible GALC inhibitor β-galactose-cyclophellitol (GCP) on the lipid profile of zebrafish embryos. Molecular modelling indicates that GCP can be sequestered in the catalytic site of the enzyme and covalently binds human GALC, and the zebrafish Galca and Galcb proteins in a similar manner. Accordingly, GCP inhibits the β-galactosylceramide hydrolase activity of zebrafish in vitro and in vivo, leading to significant alterations of the lipidome of zebrafish embryos. These results indicate that the lack of GALC activity deeply affects the lipidome during the early stages of embryonic development, and thereby provide insights into the pathogenesis of Krabbe disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Guerra
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mirella Belleri
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giulia Paiardi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies, Germany
- Zentrum für Molekulare Biologie der Universität Heidelberg (ZMBH), DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Chiara Tobia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Davide Capoferri
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marzia Corli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisa Scalvini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marco Ghirimoldi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Center for Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Marcello Manfredi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Center for Allergic and Autoimmune Diseases, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Rebecca C. Wade
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies, Germany
- Zentrum für Molekulare Biologie der Universität Heidelberg (ZMBH), DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Center for Scientific Computing (IWR), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Biotecnologie (CIB), Unit of Brescia, Italy
| | - Luca Mignani
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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5
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Li Q, Zhou SR, Kim H, Wang H, Zhu JJ, Yang JK. Discovering novel Cathepsin L inhibitors from natural products using artificial intelligence. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:2606-2614. [PMID: 39006920 PMCID: PMC11245987 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Cathepsin L (CTSL) is a promising therapeutic target for metabolic disorders. Current pharmacological interventions targeting CTSL have demonstrated potential in reducing body weight gain, serum insulin levels, and improving glucose tolerance. However, the clinical application of CTSL inhibitors remains limited. In this study, we used a combination of artificial intelligence and experimental methods to identify new CTSL inhibitors from natural products. Through a robust deep learning model and molecular docking, we screened 150 molecules from natural products for experimental validation. At a concentration of 100 µM, we found that 36 of them exhibited more than 50 % inhibition of CTSL. Notably, 13 molecules displayed over 90 % inhibition and exhibiting concentration-dependent effects. The molecular dynamics simulation on the two most potent inhibitors, Plumbagin and Beta-Lapachone, demonstrated stable interaction at the CTSL active site. Enzyme kinetics studies have shown that these inhibitors exert an uncompetitive inhibitory effect on CTSL. In conclusion, our research identifies Plumbagin and Beta-Lapachone as potential CTSL inhibitors, offering promising candidates for the treatment of metabolic disorders and illustrating the effectiveness of artificial intelligence in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
- Laboratory for Clinical Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Si-Rui Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Hanna Kim
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
- Laboratory for Clinical Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
- Laboratory for Clinical Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Juan-Juan Zhu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
- Laboratory for Clinical Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Jin-Kui Yang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
- Laboratory for Clinical Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
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6
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Zhou L, Qi Z, Wang X, Li Z, Feng W, Wang N, Li X, Ning X, Xing Y, Jiang X, Xu Z, Zhao Q. Discovery of a novel Xanthone derivative P24 for anti-AD via targeting sTGFBR3. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 276:116729. [PMID: 39088998 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116729] [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: 06/26/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Soluble transforming growth factor beta receptor 3 (sTGFBR3) antagonist is a new focus in the research and development of Alzheimer's disease (AD) drugs. Our previous studies have identified sTGFBR3 as a promising new target for AD, with few targeted antagonists identified. In this study, we performed structural modeling of sTGFBR3 using AlphaFold2, followed by high-throughput virtual screening and surface plasmon resonance assays. which collectively identified Xanthone as potential compounds for targeting sTGFBR3. After optimizing the sTGFBR3-Xanthone complex using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we prepared a series of novel Xanthone derivatives and evaluated their anti-inflammatory activity, toxicity, and structure-activity relationship in BV2 cell model induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) or APP/PS1/tau mouse brain extract (BE). Several derivatives with the most potent anti-inflammatory activity were tested for blood-brain barrier permeability and sTGFBR3 affinity. Derivative P24, selected for its superior properties, was further evaluated in vitro. The results indicated that P24 increased the activation of TGF-β signaling and decreased the activation of IκBα/NF-κB signaling by targeting sTGFBR3, thereby regulating the inflammation-phagocytosis balance in microglia. Moreover, the low acute toxicity, long half-life, and low plasma clearance of P24 suggest that it can be sustained in vivo. This property may render P24 a more effective treatment modality for chronic diseases, particularly AD. The study demonstrates P24 serve as potential novel candidates for the treatment of AD via antagonizing sTGFBR3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, 110840, People's Republic of China; Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhentong Qi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinpeng Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenshu Li
- Department of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenzhen Feng
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, 110840, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinzhu Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyue Ning
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Xing
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaowen Jiang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zihua Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, 110840, People's Republic of China; Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qingchun Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, 110840, People's Republic of China; Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, People's Republic of China; Department of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, People's Republic of China.
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7
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Soliman SSM, Hamoda AM, Nayak Y, Mostafa A, Hamdy R. Novel compounds with dual inhibition activity against SARS-CoV-2 critical enzymes RdRp and human TMPRSS2. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 276:116671. [PMID: 39004019 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
COVID-19 caused major worldwide problems. The spread of variants and limited treatment encouraged the design of novel anti-SARS-CoV-2 compounds. A series of compounds RH1-23 were designed to dually target RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2). Compared to remdesivir, in vitro screening indicated the highest selectivity and potent activity of RH11-13 with half maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) 3.9, 5.7, and 19.72 nM, respectively. RH11-12 showed superior inhibition activity against TMPRSS2 and RdRP with IC50 (1.7 and 4.2), and (6.1 and 4.42) nM, respectively. WaterMap analysis and molecular dynamics studies demonstrated the superior enzyme binding activity of RH11 and RH12. On Vero-E6 cells, RH11 and RH12 significantly inhibited the viral replication with 66 % and 63.2 %, and viral adsorption with 44 % and 65 %, alongside virucidal effect with 51.40 % and 90.5 %, respectively. Furthermore, the potent activity of RH12 was tested on TMPRSS2-expressing cells (Calu-3) compared to camostat. RH12 exhibited selectivity index (26.05) similar to camostat (28.01) and comparable to its SI on Vero-E6 cells (22.6). RH12 demonstrated also a significant inhibition of the viral adsorption on Calu-3 cells with 60 % inhibition at 30 nM. The designed compounds exhibited good physiochemical properties. These findings indicate a broad-spectrum antiviral efficacy of the designed compounds, particularly RH12, with a promise for further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh S M Soliman
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Alshaimaa M Hamoda
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut, 71526, Egypt
| | - Yogendra Nayak
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Ahmed Mostafa
- Center of Scientific Excellence for Influenza Viruses, National Research Centre, Giza, 12622, Egypt; Disease Intervention & Prevention and Host Pathogen Interactions Programs, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, 78227, United States
| | - Rania Hamdy
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
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8
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Trotta AM, Tomassi S, Di Maiolo G, Ieranò C, Vetrei C, D'Alterio C, Merlino F, Messere A, D'Aniello A, Del Bene A, Mazzarella V, Roggia M, Natale B, Cutolo R, Campagna E, Mottola S, Russo R, Chambery A, Benedetti R, Altucci L, Cosconati S, Scala S, Di Maro S. Disulfide bond replacement with non-reducible side chain to tail macrolactamization for the development of potent and selective CXCR4 peptide antagonists endowed with flanking binding sites. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 276:116669. [PMID: 39053189 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The present study describes a small library of peptides derived from a potent and selective CXCR4 antagonist (3), wherein the native disulfide bond is replaced using a side-chain to tail macrolactamization technique to vary ring size and amino acid composition. The peptides were preliminary assessed for their ability to interfere with the interaction between the receptor and anti-CXCR4 PE-conjugated antibody clone 12G5. Two promising candidates (13 and 17) were identified and further evaluated in a125I-CXCL12 competition binding assay, exhibiting IC50 in the low-nanomolar range. Furthermore, both candidates displayed high selectivity towards CXCR4 with respect to the cognate receptor CXCR7, ability to block CXCL12-dependent cancer cell migration, and receptor internalization, albeit at a higher concentration compared to 3. Molecular modeling studies on 13 and 17 produced a theoretical model that may serve as a guide for future modifications, aiding in the development of analogs with improved affinity. Finally, the study provides valuable insights into developing therapeutic agents targeting CXCR4-mediated processes, demonstrating the adaptability of our lead peptide 3 to alternative cyclization approaches and offering prospects for comprehensive investigations into the receptor region's interaction with its C-terminal region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Trotta
- Microenvironment Molecular Targets, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione "G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Tomassi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Gaetana Di Maiolo
- Microenvironment Molecular Targets, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione "G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina Ieranò
- Microenvironment Molecular Targets, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione "G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Cinzia Vetrei
- Microenvironment Molecular Targets, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione "G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Crescenzo D'Alterio
- Microenvironment Molecular Targets, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione "G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Messere
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Antonia D'Aniello
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Del Bene
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mazzarella
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Michele Roggia
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Benito Natale
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Roberto Cutolo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Erica Campagna
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Salvatore Mottola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Rosita Russo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Angela Chambery
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Rosaria Benedetti
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania ''Luigi Vanvitelli'', Vico L. De Crecchio 7, 80138, Naples, Italy; Program of Medical Epigenetics, Vanvitelli Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Lucia Altucci
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania ''Luigi Vanvitelli'', Vico L. De Crecchio 7, 80138, Naples, Italy; Program of Medical Epigenetics, Vanvitelli Hospital, Naples, Italy; Institute of Endocrinology and Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore" (IEOS), 80131, Naples, Italy; Biogem Institute of Molecular and Genetic Biology, 83031, Ariano Irpino, Italy
| | - Sandro Cosconati
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy.
| | - Stefania Scala
- Microenvironment Molecular Targets, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione "G. Pascale", 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Di Maro
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100, Caserta, Italy.
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9
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Zheng J, Zhou L, Gong X, Yang F, Cheng J, Ma R, Wu C, Xu Z, Zhu W, He Y, Shen J. Synthesis and biological evaluation of multimodal monoaminergic arylpiperazine derivatives with potential antidepressant profile. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 275:116564. [PMID: 38875810 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116564] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Depression is a common psychiatric disorder with an estimated global prevalence of 4.4 %. Here, we designed a series of new multimodal monoaminergic arylpiperazine derivatives using a pharmacophore hybrid approach and synthesized them for the treatment of depression. Molecular docking was employed to elucidate the differences in activity and selectivity of the corresponding compounds on SERT, NET, and DAT. In vitro experiments demonstrated that compound A3 has a relatively balanced multi-target activity profile with SERT reuptake inhibition (IC50 = 12 nM), NET reuptake inhibition (IC50 = 78 nM), DAT reuptake inhibition (IC50 = 135 nM), and 5-HT1AR agonism (EC50 = 34 nM). Pharmacokinetic experiments revealed that A3 exhibited excellent bioavailability and low clearance in mice. Subsequent behavioral experiments further confirmed its significant antidepressant effects. These results further highlight the rationality of our design strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiefang Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Liping Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xudong Gong
- Vigonvita Shanghai Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Feipu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jiaxin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Rui Ma
- Vigonvita Shanghai Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Chunhui Wu
- Vigonvita Shanghai Co., Ltd., Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Zhijian Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Weiliang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Yang He
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Jingshan Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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10
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Tiburtini GA, Bertarini L, Bersani M, Dragani TA, Rolando B, Binello A, Barge A, Spyrakis F. In silico prediction of the interaction of legacy and novel per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) with selected human transporters and of their possible accumulation in the human body. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:3035-3047. [PMID: 38884658 PMCID: PMC11324760 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03797-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Per- and poly-fluorinated compounds constitute a wide group of fluorocarbon chemicals with widespread industrial applications, ranging from non-stick coating in cookware to water surfactants, from fire-fighting foams to water-repellent coatings on textiles. Presently, over 12,000 PFAS are known worldwide. In recent years, extensive research has focused on investigating the biological effects of these molecules on various organisms, including humans. Here, we conducted in silico simulations to examine the potential binding of a representative selection of PFAS to various human proteins known to be involved in chemical transportation and accumulation processes. Specifically, we targeted human serum albumin (HSA), transthyretin (TTR), thyroxine binding protein (TBG), fatty acid binding proteins (FABPs), organic anion transporters (OATs), aiming to assess the potential for bioaccumulation. Molecular docking simulations were employed for this purpose, supplemented by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to account for protein flexibility, when necessary. Our findings indicate that so-called "legacy PFAS" such as PFOA or PFOS exhibit a higher propensity for interaction with the analysed human protein targets compared to newly formulated PFAS, characterised by higher branching and hydrophilicity, and possibly a higher accumulation in the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A Tiburtini
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - L Bertarini
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - M Bersani
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - B Rolando
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - A Binello
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - A Barge
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - F Spyrakis
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
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11
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Paulis A, Onali A, Vidalain PO, Lotteau V, Jaquemin C, Corona A, Distinto S, Delogu GL, Tramontano E. Identification of new benzofuran derivatives as STING agonists with broad-spectrum antiviral activity. Virus Res 2024; 347:199432. [PMID: 38969014 PMCID: PMC11294726 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
The Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) is involved in cytosolic DNA sensing and type I Interferons (IFN-I) induction. Aiming to identify new STING agonists with antiviral activity and given the known biological activity of benzothiazole and benzimidazole derivatives, a series of benzofuran derivatives were tested for their ability to act as STING agonists, induce IFN-I and inhibit viral replication. Compounds were firstly evaluated in a gene reporter assay measuring luciferase activity driven by the human IFN-β promoter in cells expressing exogenous STING (HEK293T). Seven of them were able to induce IFN-β transcription while no induction of the IFN promoter was observed in the presence of a mutated and inactive STING, showing specific protein-ligand interaction. Docking studies were performed to predict their putative binding mode. The best hit compounds were then tested on human coronavirus 229E replication in BEAS-2B and MRC-5 cells and three derivatives showed EC50 values in the μM range. Such compounds were also tested on SARS-CoV-2 replication in BEAS-2B cells and in Calu-3 showing they can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication at nanomolar concentrations. To further confirm their IFN-dependent antiviral activity, compounds were tested to verify their effect on phospho-IRF3 nuclear localization, that was found to be induced by benzofuran derivatives, and SARS-CoV-2 replication in Vero E6 cells, lacking IFN production, founding them to be inactive. In conclusion, we identified benzofurans as STING-dependent immunostimulatory compounds and host-targeting inhibitors of coronaviruses representing a novel chemical scaffold for the development of broad-spectrum antivirals.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Paulis
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy
| | - A Onali
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy
| | - P O Vidalain
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, Lyon F-69007, France
| | - V Lotteau
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, Lyon F-69007, France
| | - C Jaquemin
- CIRI, Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, University Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS de Lyon, Lyon F-69007, France
| | - A Corona
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy
| | - S Distinto
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy.
| | - G L Delogu
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy
| | - E Tramontano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Italy.
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12
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Yuce M, Ates B, Yasar NI, Sungur FA, Kurkcuoglu O. A computational workflow to determine drug candidates alternative to aminoglycosides targeting the decoding center of E. coli ribosome. J Mol Graph Model 2024; 131:108817. [PMID: 38976944 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2024.108817] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The global antibiotic resistance problem necessitates fast and effective approaches to finding novel inhibitors to treat bacterial infections. In this study, we propose a computational workflow to identify plausible high-affinity compounds from FDA-approved, investigational, and experimental libraries for the decoding center on the small subunit 30S of the E. coli ribosome. The workflow basically consists of two molecular docking calculations on the intact 30S, followed by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations coupled with MM-GBSA calculations on a truncated ribosome structure. The parameters used in the molecular docking suits, Glide and AutoDock Vina, as well as in the MD simulations with Desmond were carefully adjusted to obtain expected interactions for the ligand-rRNA complexes. A filtering procedure was followed, considering a fingerprint based on aminoglycoside's binding site on the 30S to obtain seven hit compounds either with different clinical usages or aminoglycoside derivatives under investigation, suggested for in vitro studies. The detailed workflow developed in this study promises an effective and fast approach for the estimation of binding free energies of large protein-RNA and ligand complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merve Yuce
- Istanbul Technical University, Department of Chemical Engineering, Istanbul, 34469, Turkey.
| | - Beril Ates
- Istanbul Technical University, Department of Chemical Engineering, Istanbul, 34469, Turkey.
| | - Nesrin Isil Yasar
- Istanbul Technical University, Computational Science and Engineering Division, Informatics Institute, Istanbul, 34469, Turkey.
| | - Fethiye Aylin Sungur
- Istanbul Technical University, Computational Science and Engineering Division, Informatics Institute, Istanbul, 34469, Turkey.
| | - Ozge Kurkcuoglu
- Istanbul Technical University, Department of Chemical Engineering, Istanbul, 34469, Turkey.
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13
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Naik B, Gupta N, Godara P, Srivastava V, Kumar P, Giri R, Prajapati VK, Pandey KC, Prusty D. Structure-based virtual screening approach reveals natural multi-target compounds for the development of antimalarial drugs to combat drug resistance. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:7384-7408. [PMID: 37528665 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2240415] [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] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Compared to the previous year, there has been an increase of nearly 2 million malaria cases in 2021. The emergence of drug-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum, the most deadly malaria parasite, has led to a decline in the effectiveness of existing antimalarial drugs. To address this problem, the present study aimed to identify natural compounds with the potential to inhibit multiple validated antimalarial drug targets. The natural compounds from the Natural Product Activity and Species Source (NPASS) database were screened against ten validated drug targets of Plasmodium falciparum using a structure-based molecular docking method. Twenty compounds, with targets ranging from three to five, were determined as the top hits. The molecular dynamics simulations of the top six complexes (NPC246162 in complex with PfAdSS, PfGDH, and PfNMT; NPC271270 in complex with PfCK, PfGDH, and PfdUTPase) confirmed their stable binding affinity in the dynamic environment. The Tanimoto coefficient and distance matrix score analysis show the structural divergence of all the hit compounds from known antimalarials, indicating minimum chances of cross-resistance. Thus, we propose further investigating these compounds in biochemical and parasite inhibition studies to reveal the real therapeutic potential. If found successful, these compounds may be a new avenue for future drug discovery efforts to combat existing antimalarial drug resistance.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biswajit Naik
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
| | - Nidhi Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
| | - Priya Godara
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
| | - Varshita Srivastava
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
| | - Prateek Kumar
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand, India
| | - Rajanish Giri
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand, India
| | - Vijay Kumar Prajapati
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
| | - Kailash C Pandey
- Icmr-National Institute of Malaria Research, And Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR-ICMR), India
| | - Dhaneswar Prusty
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, India
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14
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Kumar A, Verma H, Gangwar P, Jangid K, Kumar V, Dhiman M, Jaitak V. Estrogen receptor alpha (ER-α) antagonistic activity of phytoconstituents from Potentilla atrosanguinea and Potentilla fulgens in breast cancer. Fitoterapia 2024; 177:106123. [PMID: 39004288 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2024.106123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
The Potentilla genus has long been used traditionally as food and a folklore medicine. In the present study, aerial parts of two Potentilla species, Potentilla fulgens and Potentilla atrosanguinea, of western Himalayan origin, were studied for their anti-breast cancer activity. Ethyl acetate (PAA-EA, PFA-EA), methanolic (PAA-ME, PFA-ME) and hydro-methanolic extract (PAA-HM, PFA-HM) of the plants were tested for their antiproliferative activities against MCF-7 and T-47D breast cancer cell lines. The extracts showed good antiproliferative activity against ER-α dominant breast cancer cell line T-47D, having IC50 values 6.19 ± 0.01 to 33.23 ± 0.04 μg/ml. Eight compounds were isolated, characterized, and quantified from ethyl acetate and methanolic extracts by column chromatography, 1D, 2D-NMR, HRMS and TLC densitometric analysis. Two compounds (4 and 6) have shown better antiproliferative activity than standard bazedoxifene and were further evaluated for their ER-α binding affinity via-fluorescence polarization-based competitive binding assay. The antiestrogenic properties of both compounds were assessed using western blotting. Compounds 4 and 6 were found to have significant affinity for the ER-α and managed to decrease its expression by 38 and 54% respectively. Compounds 4 and 6 also had good stability and reactivity as measured by minimal fluctuations in molecular dynamic simulation analysis, a good dock score in molecular docking, and a respectable HOMO-LUMO energy gap in DFT calculations. Compounds 4 and 6 have shown reliable results and can be used in the development of natural product-based anti-breast cancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Kumar
- Natural Products Chemistry Lab, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Harkomal Verma
- Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Prabhakar Gangwar
- Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Kailash Jangid
- Department of Chemistry, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Monisha Dhiman
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Vikas Jaitak
- Natural Products Chemistry Lab, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India..
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15
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Choithramani A, Das R, Bothra G, Patel Vatsa P, Muthukumar V, Bhuvana BKS, Kapoor S, Moola D, Chowdhury MG, Mandoli A, Shard A. Targeted suppression of oral squamous cell carcinoma by pyrimidine-tethered quinoxaline derivatives. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:2729-2744. [PMID: 39149105 PMCID: PMC11324040 DOI: 10.1039/d4md00042k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Oral cancer (OC) stands as a prominent cause of global mortality. Despite numerous efforts in recent decades, the efficacy of novel therapies to extend the lifespan of OC patients remains disappointingly low. Consequently, the demand for innovative therapeutic agents has become all the more pressing. In this context, we present our work on the design and synthesis of twenty-five novel quinoxaline-tethered imidazopyri(mi)dine derivatives. This was followed by comprehensive investigations into the impact of these molecules on the OC cell line. The in vitro cytotoxicity studies performed in CAL-27 and normal oral epithelial (NOE) cell lines revealed that some of the synthesized molecules like 12d have potent antiproliferative activity specifically towards OC cells with an IC50 of 0.79 μM and show negligible cytotoxicity over NOE cells. Further, 12d arrested cell growth in the S phase of the cell cycle and induced cell death by early apoptosis. The in silico studies validated that 12d binds to the activator binding site on pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) overexpressed in OC while the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)-coupled enzyme assay established 12d as a potent PKM2 activator with an AC50 of 0.6 nM. Hence, this study provides fruitful evidence for the designed compounds as anticancer agents against OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmita Choithramani
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat - 382355 India
| | - Rudradip Das
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat - 382355 India
| | - Gourav Bothra
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat - 382355 India
| | - Priyanka Patel Vatsa
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat - 382355 India
| | - Venkatesh Muthukumar
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat - 382355 India
| | - Bombothu Kavya Sai Bhuvana
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat - 382355 India
| | - Saumya Kapoor
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat - 382355 India
| | - Deepshika Moola
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat - 382355 India
| | - Moumita Ghosh Chowdhury
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat - 382355 India
| | - Amit Mandoli
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat - 382355 India
| | - Amit Shard
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A) Opposite Airforce Station, Palaj Gandhinagar Gujarat - 382355 India
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16
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Aplin C, Zielinski KA, Pabit S, Ogunribido D, Katt WP, Pollack L, Cerione RA, Milano SK. Distinct conformational states enable transglutaminase 2 to promote cancer cell survival versus cell death. Commun Biol 2024; 7:982. [PMID: 39134806 PMCID: PMC11319651 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06672-x] [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: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Transglutaminase 2 (TG2) is a GTP-binding, protein-crosslinking enzyme that has been investigated as a therapeutic target for Celiac disease, neurological disorders, and aggressive cancers. TG2 has been suggested to adopt two conformational states that regulate its functions: a GTP-bound, closed conformation, and a calcium-bound, crosslinking-active open conformation. TG2 mutants that constitutively adopt an open conformation are cytotoxic to cancer cells. Thus, small molecules that bind and stabilize the open conformation of TG2 could offer a new therapeutic strategy. Here, we investigate TG2, using static and time-resolved small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and single-particle cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM), to determine the conformational states responsible for conferring its biological effects. We also describe a newly developed TG2 inhibitor, LM11, that potently kills glioblastoma cells and use SAXS to investigate how LM11 affects the conformational states of TG2. Using SAXS and cryo-EM, we show that guanine nucleotides bind and stabilize a monomeric closed conformation while calcium binds to an open state that can form higher order oligomers. SAXS analysis suggests how a TG2 mutant that constitutively adopts the open state binds nucleotides through an alternative mechanism to wildtype TG2. Furthermore, we use time resolved SAXS to show that LM11 increases the ability of calcium to bind and stabilize an open conformation, which is not reversible by guanine nucleotides and is cytotoxic to cancer cells. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the conformational dynamics of TG2 are more complex than previously suggested and highlight how conformational stabilization of TG2 by LM11 maintains TG2 in a cytotoxic conformational state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody Aplin
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, 14853, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cornell University, 14853, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Kara A Zielinski
- School of Applied and Engineering Physics, Cornell University, 14853, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Suzette Pabit
- School of Applied and Engineering Physics, Cornell University, 14853, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Deborah Ogunribido
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, 14853, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - William P Katt
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cornell University, 14853, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Lois Pollack
- School of Applied and Engineering Physics, Cornell University, 14853, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Richard A Cerione
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, 14853, Ithaca, NY, USA.
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cornell University, 14853, Ithaca, NY, USA.
| | - Shawn K Milano
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, 14853, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cornell University, 14853, Ithaca, NY, USA
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17
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Shu Y, Yue J, Li Y, Yin Y, Wang J, Li T, He X, Liang S, Zhang G, Liu Z, Wang Y. Development of human lactate dehydrogenase a inhibitors: high-throughput screening, molecular dynamics simulation and enzyme activity assay. J Comput Aided Mol Des 2024; 38:28. [PMID: 39123063 DOI: 10.1007/s10822-024-00568-y] [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: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) is highly expressed in many tumor cells and promotes the conversion of pyruvate to lactic acid in the glucose pathway, providing energy and synthetic precursors for rapid proliferation of tumor cells. Therefore, inhibition of LDHA has become a widely concerned tumor treatment strategy. However, the research and development of highly efficient and low toxic LDHA small molecule inhibitors still faces challenges. To discover potential inhibitors against LDHA, virtual screening based on molecular docking techniques was performed from Specs database of more than 260,000 compounds and Chemdiv-smart database of more than 1,000 compounds. Through molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies, we identified 12 potential LDHA inhibitors, all of which can stably bind to human LDHA protein and form multiple interactions with its active central residues. In order to verify the inhibitory activities of these compounds, we established an enzyme activity assay system and measured their inhibitory effects on recombinant human LDHA. The results showed that Compound 6 could inhibit the catalytic effect of LDHA on pyruvate in a dose-dependent manner with an EC50 value of 14.54 ± 0.83 µM. Further in vitro experiments showed that Compound 6 could significantly inhibit the proliferation of various tumor cell lines such as pancreatic cancer cells and lung cancer cells, reduce intracellular lactic acid content and increase intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level. In summary, through virtual screening and in vitro validation, we found that Compound 6 is a small molecule inhibitor for LDHA, providing a good lead compound for the research and development of LDHA related targeted anti-tumor drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Shu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Jianda Yue
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Yaqi Li
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Yekui Yin
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Jiaxu Wang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Tingting Li
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Xiao He
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Molecule Intelligent Syntheses, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- New York University, East China Normal University Center for Computational Chemistry, New York University Shanghai, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Songping Liang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Gaihua Zhang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China.
| | - Zhonghua Liu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China.
| | - Ying Wang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Peptide and Small Molecule Drug R&D Plateform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China.
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18
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Hadfield CM, Walker JK, Arnatt C, McCommis KS. Computational structural prediction and chemical inhibition of the human mitochondrial pyruvate carrier protein heterodimer complex. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.16.594520. [PMID: 39071381 PMCID: PMC11275797 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.16.594520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
The mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC) plays a role in numerous diseases including neurodegeneration, metabolically dependent cancers, and the development of insulin resistance. Several previous studies in genetic mouse models or with existing inhibitors suggest that inhibition of the MPC could be used as a viable therapeutic strategy in these diseases. However, the MPC's structure is unknown, making it difficult to screen for and develop therapeutically viable inhibitors. Currently known MPC inhibitors would make for poor drugs due to their poor pharmacokinetic properties, or in the case of the thiazolidinediones (TZDs), off-target specificity for peroxisome-proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) leads to unwanted side effects. In this study, we develop several structural models for the MPC heterodimer complex and investigate the chemical interactions required for the binding of these known inhibitors to MPC and PPARγ. Based on these models, the MPC most likely takes on outward-facing (OF) and inward-facing (IF) conformations during pyruvate transport, and inhibitors likely plug the carrier to inhibit pyruvate transport. Although some chemical interactions are similar between MPC and PPARγ binding, there is likely enough difference to reduce PPARγ specificity for future development of novel, more specific MPC inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy M Hadfield
- Edward A. Doisy Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine
| | - John K Walker
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine
- Department of Chemistry, Saint Louis University
| | - Chris Arnatt
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine
- Department of Chemistry, Saint Louis University
| | - Kyle S McCommis
- Edward A. Doisy Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine
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19
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Díaz-Holguín A, Saarinen M, Vo DD, Sturchio A, Branzell N, Cabeza de Vaca I, Hu H, Mitjavila-Domènech N, Lindqvist A, Baranczewski P, Millan MJ, Yang Y, Carlsson J, Svenningsson P. AlphaFold accelerated discovery of psychotropic agonists targeting the trace amine-associated receptor 1. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadn1524. [PMID: 39110804 PMCID: PMC11305387 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adn1524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing protein structure prediction, providing unprecedented opportunities for drug design. To assess the potential impact on ligand discovery, we compared virtual screens using protein structures generated by the AlphaFold machine learning method and traditional homology modeling. More than 16 million compounds were docked to models of the trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1), a G protein-coupled receptor of unknown structure and target for treating neuropsychiatric disorders. Sets of 30 and 32 highly ranked compounds from the AlphaFold and homology model screens, respectively, were experimentally evaluated. Of these, 25 were TAAR1 agonists with potencies ranging from 12 to 0.03 μM. The AlphaFold screen yielded a more than twofold higher hit rate (60%) than the homology model and discovered the most potent agonists. A TAAR1 agonist with a promising selectivity profile and drug-like properties showed physiological and antipsychotic-like effects in wild-type but not in TAAR1 knockout mice. These results demonstrate that AlphaFold structures can accelerate drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Díaz-Holguín
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Box 596, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marcus Saarinen
- Neuro Svenningsson, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Duc Duy Vo
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Box 596, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Andrea Sturchio
- Neuro Svenningsson, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, James J. and Joan A. Gardner Family Center for Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Niclas Branzell
- Neuro Svenningsson, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Israel Cabeza de Vaca
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Box 596, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Huabin Hu
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Box 596, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Núria Mitjavila-Domènech
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Box 596, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Annika Lindqvist
- Department of Pharmacy, SciLifeLab Drug Discovery and Development Platform, Uppsala University, Box 580, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Pawel Baranczewski
- Department of Pharmacy, SciLifeLab Drug Discovery and Development Platform, Uppsala University, Box 580, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mark J. Millan
- Neuroinflammation Therapeutic Area, Institut de Recherches Servier, Centre de Recherches de Croissy, Paris, France and Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology, College of Medicine, Vet and Life Sciences, Glasgow University, Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - Yunting Yang
- Neuro Svenningsson, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jens Carlsson
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Box 596, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Per Svenningsson
- Neuro Svenningsson, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
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20
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Moussa AY, Alanzi AR, Riaz M, Fayez S. Could Mushrooms' Secondary Metabolites Ameliorate Alzheimer Disease? A Computational Flexible Docking Investigation. J Med Food 2024. [PMID: 39121021 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2023.0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Herein, we highlight the significance of molecular modeling approaches prior to in vitro and in vivo studies; particularly, in diseases with no recognized treatments such as neurological abnormalities. Alzheimer disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that causes irreversible cognitive decline. Toxicity and ADMET studies were conducted using the Qikprop platform in Maestro software and Discovery Studio 2.0, respectively, to select the promising skeletons from more than 45 reviewed compounds isolated from mushrooms in the last decade. Using rigid and flexible molecular docking approaches such as induced fit docking (IFD) in the binding sites of β-secretase (BACE1) and acetylcholine esterase (ACHE), promising structures were screened through high precision molecular docking compared with standard drugs donepezil and (2E)-2-imino-3-methyl-5,5-diphenylimidazolidin-4-one (OKK) using Maestro and Cresset Flare platforms. Molecular interactions, binding distances, and RMSD values were measured to reveal key interactions at the binding sites of the two neurodegenerative enzymes. Analysis of IFD results revealed consistent bindings of dictyoquinazol A and gensetin I in the pocket of 4ey7 while inonophenol A, ganomycin, and fornicin fit quite well in 4dju demonstrating binding poses very close to native ligands at ACHE and BACE1. Respective key amino acid contacts manifested the least steric problems according to their Gibbs free binding energies, Glide XP scores, RMSD values, and molecular orientation respect to the key amino acids. Molecular dynamics simulations further confirmed our findings and prospected these compounds to show significant in vitro results in their future pharmacological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashaimaa Y Moussa
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain-Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdullah R Alanzi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Riaz
- Single Cell Research Center, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaimaa Fayez
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain-Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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21
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Vestuto V, Ciaglia T, Musella S, Di Sarno V, Smaldone G, Di Matteo F, Scala MC, Napolitano V, Miranda MR, Amodio G, Novi S, Pepe G, Basilicata MG, Gazzillo E, Pace S, Gomez-Monterrey IM, Sala M, Bifulco G, Tecce MF, Campiglia P, Ostacolo C, Lauro G, Manfra M, Bertamino A. A Comprehensive In Vitro Characterization of a New Class of Indole-Based Compounds Developed as Selective Haspin Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2024; 67:12711-12734. [PMID: 39038808 PMCID: PMC11320660 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Haspin is an emerging, but rather unexplored, divergent kinase involved in tumor growth by regulating the mitotic phase. In this paper, the in-silico design, synthesis, and biological characterization of a new series of substituted indoles acting as potent Haspin inhibitors are reported. The synthesized derivatives have been evaluated by FRET analysis, showing very potent Haspin inhibition. Then, a comprehensive in-cell investigation highlighted compounds 47 and 60 as the most promising inhibitors. These compounds were challenged for their synergic activity with paclitaxel in 2D and 3D cellular models, demonstrating a twofold improvement of the paclitaxel antitumor activity. Compound 60 also showed remarkable selectivity when tested in a panel of 70 diverse kinases. Finally, in-silico studies provided new insight about the chemical requirements useful to develop new Haspin inhibitors. Biological results, together with the drug-likeness profile of 47 and 60, make these derivatives deserving further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Vestuto
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Tania Ciaglia
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Simona Musella
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Veronica Di Sarno
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Gerardina Smaldone
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Matteo
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Maria Carmina Scala
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Valeria Napolitano
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Miranda
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Amodio
- Department
of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana″, University of Salerno, Salerno , Baronissi 84034, Italy
| | - Sara Novi
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Giacomo Pepe
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Manuela Giovanna Basilicata
- Department
of Advanced Medical and Surgical Science, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, P.zza L. Miraglia 2, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Erica Gazzillo
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Simona Pace
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | | | - Marina Sala
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bifulco
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Mario Felice Tecce
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Pietro Campiglia
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Carmine Ostacolo
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Lauro
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
| | - Michele Manfra
- Department
of Science, University of Basilicata, Via dell’Ateneo Lucano 10 , Potenza 85100, Italy
| | - Alessia Bertamino
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132 , Salerno , Fisciano 84084, Italy
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22
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Li T, Liu X, Qian H, Zhang S, Hou Y, Zhang Y, Luo G, Zhu X, Tao Y, Fan M, Wang H, Sha C, Lin A, Qin J, Gu K, Chen W, Fu T, Wang Y, Wei Y, Wu Q, Tan W. Blocker-SELEX: a structure-guided strategy for developing inhibitory aptamers disrupting undruggable transcription factor interactions. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6751. [PMID: 39117705 PMCID: PMC11310338 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51197-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the well-established significance of transcription factors (TFs) in pathogenesis, their utilization as pharmacological targets has been limited by the inherent challenges in modulating their protein interactions. The lack of defined small-molecule binding pockets and the nuclear localization of TFs do not favor the use of traditional tools. Aptamers possess large molecular weights, expansive blocking surfaces and efficient cellular internalization, making them compelling tools for modulating TF interactions. Here, we report a structure-guided design strategy called Blocker-SELEX to develop inhibitory aptamers (iAptamers) that selectively block TF interactions. Our approach leads to the discovery of iAptamers that cooperatively disrupt SCAF4/SCAF8-RNAP2 interactions, dysregulating RNAP2-dependent gene expression, which impairs cell proliferation. This approach is further applied to develop iAptamers blocking WDR5-MYC interactions. Overall, our study highlights the potential of iAptamers in disrupting pathogenic TF interactions, implicating their potential utility in studying the biological functions of TF interactions and in nucleic acids drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongqing Li
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xueying Liu
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haifeng Qian
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sheyu Zhang
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yu Hou
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuchao Zhang
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guoyan Luo
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xun Zhu
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanxin Tao
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- Shanghai Institute of Material Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengyang Fan
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chulin Sha
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ailan Lin
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Qin
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- School of Pharmacy, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kedan Gu
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weichang Chen
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ting Fu
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yajun Wang
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yong Wei
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Qin Wu
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.
- Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Weihong Tan
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.
- Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China.
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23
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Huang X, Chorianopoulou A, Kalkounou P, Georgiou M, Pousias A, Davies A, Pearce A, Harris M, Lambrinidis G, Marakos P, Pouli N, Kolocouris A, Lougiakis N, Ladds G. Hit-to-Lead Optimization of Heterocyclic Carbonyloxycarboximidamides as Selective Antagonists at Human Adenosine A3 Receptor. J Med Chem 2024; 67:13117-13146. [PMID: 39073853 PMCID: PMC11320584 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c01092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Antagonism of the human adenosine A3 receptor (hA3R) has potential therapeutic application. Alchemical relative binding free energy calculations of K18 and K32 suggested that the combination of a 3-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-isoxazolyl group with 2-pyridinyl at the ends of a carbonyloxycarboximidamide group should improve hA3R affinity. Of the 25 new analogues synthesized, 37 and 74 showed improved hA3R affinity compared to K18 (and K32). This was further improved through the addition of a bromine group to the 2-pyridinyl at the 5-position, generating compound 39. Alchemical relative binding free energy calculations, mutagenesis studies and MD simulations supported the compounds' binding pattern while suggesting that the bromine of 39 inserts deep into the hA3R orthosteric pocket, so highlighting the importance of rigidification of the carbonyloxycarboximidamide moiety. MD simulations highlighted the importance of rigidification of the carbonyloxycarboximidamide, while suggesting that the bromine of 39 inserts deep into the hA3R orthosteric pocket, which was supported through mutagenesis studies 39 also selectively antagonized endogenously expressed hA3R in nonsmall cell lung carcinoma cells, while pharmacokinetic studies indicated low toxicity enabling in vivo evaluation. We therefore suggest that 39 has potential for further development as a high-affinity hA3R antagonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianglin Huang
- Department
of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD, U.K.
| | - Anna Chorianopoulou
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagoula Kalkounou
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Georgiou
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Pousias
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Amy Davies
- Department
of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD, U.K.
| | - Abigail Pearce
- Department
of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD, U.K.
| | - Matthew Harris
- Department
of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD, U.K.
| | - George Lambrinidis
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Marakos
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Nicole Pouli
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Antonios Kolocouris
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Lougiakis
- Laboratory
of Medicinal Chemistry, Section of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department
of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Graham Ladds
- Department
of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1PD, U.K.
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24
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Chen H, Jiang Z, Tong H, Mai Z, Kong R, Zhang W, Zhang MZ, Chen K, Zhu Y. Discovery of Novel Acethydrazide-Containing Flavonol Derivatives as Potential Antifungal Agents. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:17229-17239. [PMID: 39052285 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c02654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
In this study, a series of novel hydrazide-containing flavonol derivatives was designed, synthesized, and evaluated for antifungal activity. In the in vitro antifungal assay, most of the target compounds exhibited potent antifungal activity against seven tested phytopathogenic fungi. In particular, compound C32 showed the best antifungal activity against Rhizoctonia solani (EC50 = 0.170 μg/mL), outperforming carbendazim (EC50 = 0.360 μg/mL) and boscalid (EC50 = 1.36 μg/mL). Compound C24 exhibited excellent antifungal activity against Valsa mali, Botrytis cinerea, and Alternaria alternata with EC50 values of 0.590, 0.870, and 1.71 μg/mL, respectively. The in vivo experiments revealed that compounds C32 and C24 were potential novel agricultural antifungals. 3D quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) models were used to analyze the structure-activity relationships of these compounds. The analysis results indicated that introducing appropriate electronegative groups at position 4 of a benzene ring could effectively improve the anti-R. solani activity. In the antifungal mechanism study, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy analyses revealed that C32 disrupted the normal growth of hyphae by affecting the structural integrity of the cell membrane and cellular respiration. Furthermore, compound C32 exhibited potent succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) inhibitory activity (IC50 = 8.42 μM), surpassing that of the SDH fungicide boscalid (IC50 = 15.6 μM). The molecular dynamics simulations and docking experiments suggested that compound C32 can occupy the active site and form strong interactions with the key residues of SDH. Our findings have great potential for aiding future research on plant disease control in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyi Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pesticide Science, College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zunyun Jiang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pesticide Science, College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - He Tong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pesticide Science, College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Ziyun Mai
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pesticide Science, College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Ren Kong
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou 213001, China
| | - Weihua Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pesticide Science, College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Ming-Zhi Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pesticide Science, College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Kang Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pesticide Science, College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yingguang Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pesticide Science, College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
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25
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Singh H, Satish N, Babu TR, Singh A, Yadav B, Singh SK, Wahajuddin M, Siddiqui MI, Jagavelu K, Sudhakar G. Functionalized azirine based scaffolds as endothelin inhibitors for the selective anti-angiogenic activity. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 274:116510. [PMID: 38843585 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/17/2024]
Abstract
Anti-angiogenic therapy has long been used as an adjunct therapy for the resolution of tumor burden. The current findings describe the synthesis of novel marine-based azirine-containing compounds that exhibit anti-angiogenic mediated anti-tumor activity. Azirine-2-carboxylate inhibited HUVEC-mediated tubulogenesis without causing cell death in a dose-dependent manner. Ex-vivo CAM, in-vivo Matrigel implantation, and ear angiogenesis experiments have all shown that azirine-2-carboxylate effectively inhibits angiogenesis. Furthermore, azirine-2-carboxylate inhibits the migration of ECs without disrupting the preformed tubule network. Azirine-2-carboxylate had adequate intramuscular systemic exposure and inhibited tumor growth in a xenograft mouse model. DARTS analysis, competitive binding assay, and gene expression investigations revealed that azirine-2-carboxylate inhibits endothelin-1-mediated angiogenesis. Overall, the discovery of azirine-2-carboxylate demonstrated a potent inhibition of angiogenesis targeting ET1 and a possible application in anti-angiogenic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himalaya Singh
- Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Nagam Satish
- Department of Organic Synthesis & Process Chemistry, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, 500007, Telangana, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Tella Ramesh Babu
- Department of Organic Synthesis & Process Chemistry, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, 500007, Telangana, India
| | - Abhinav Singh
- Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Babita Yadav
- Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Sandeep Kumar Singh
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Mohammad Wahajuddin
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Mohammad Imran Siddiqui
- Molecular and Structural Biology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Kumaravelu Jagavelu
- Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
| | - Gangarajula Sudhakar
- Department of Organic Synthesis & Process Chemistry, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, 500007, Telangana, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
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26
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Kumar GS, Sahoo AK, Ranjan N, Dwivedi VD, Agrawal S. Suppressing Mycobacterium tuberculosis virulence and drug resistance by targeting Eis protein through computational drug discovery. Mol Divers 2024:10.1007/s11030-024-10946-1. [PMID: 39096353 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-024-10946-1] [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: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a critical health threat, particularly with the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains. This demands attention from scientific communities and healthcare professionals worldwide to develop effective treatments. The enhanced intracellular survival (Eis) protein is an acetyltransferase enzyme of Mycobacterium tuberculosis that functions by adding acetyl groups to aminoglycoside antibiotics, which interferes with their ability to bind to the bacterial ribosome, thereby preventing them from inhibiting protein synthesis and killing the bacterium. Therefore, targeting this protein accelerates the chance of restoring the aminoglycoside drug activity, thereby reducing the emergence of drug-resistant TB. For this, we have screened 406,747 natural compounds from the Coconut database against Eis protein. Based on MM/GBSA rescoring binding energy, the top 5 most prominent natural compounds, viz. CNP0187003 (- 96.14 kcal/mol), CNP0176690 (- 93.79 kcal/mol), CNP0136537 (- 92.31 kcal/mol), CNP0398701 (- 91.96 kcal/mol), and CNP0043390 (- 91.60 kcal/mol) were selected. These compounds exhibited the presence of a substantial number of hydrogen bonds and other significant interactions confirming their strong binding affinity with the Eis protein during the docking process. Subsequently, the MD simulation of these compounds exhibited that the Eis-CNP0043390 complex was the most stable, followed by Eis-CNP0187003 and Eis-CNP0176690 complex, further verified by binding free energy calculation, principal component analysis (PCA), and Free energy landscape analysis. These compounds demonstrated the most favourable results in all parameters utilised for this investigation and may have the potential to inhibit the Eis protein. There these findings will leverage computational techniques to identify and develop a natural compound inhibitor as an alternative for drug-resistant TB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geethu S Kumar
- Centre for Development of Biomaterials and Department of Life Sciences, Sharda School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201310, India
| | - Amaresh Kumar Sahoo
- Department of Applied Sciences, Indian Institute of Information Technology Allahabad, Allahabad, India
| | - Nishant Ranjan
- University Centre for Research and Development, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Chandigarh University Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Vivek Dhar Dwivedi
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha University, Chennai, India.
- Bioinformatics Research Division, Quanta Calculus, Greater Noida, India.
| | - Sharad Agrawal
- Centre for Development of Biomaterials and Department of Life Sciences, Sharda School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201310, India.
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27
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Zondagh LS, Malan SF, Joubert J. Edaravone N-benzyl pyridinium derivatives: BACE-1 inhibition, kinetics and in silico binding pose determination. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 201:106869. [PMID: 39102997 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2024.106869] [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: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
BACE-1 plays a pivotal role in the production of β-amyloid (Aβ) peptides, implicated in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) pathology. We previously described edaravone N-benzyl pyridinium derivatives (EBPDs) that exhibited multifunctional activity against multiple AD targets. In this study we explored the EBPDs BACE-1 inhibitory activity to potentially enhance the compounds therapeutic profile. The EBPDs exhibited moderate BACE-1 inhibitory activity (IC50 = 44.10 µM - 123.70 µM) and obtained IC50 values between 2.0 and 5.8-fold greater than resveratrol, a known BACE-1 inhibitor (IC50 = 253.20 µM), in this assay. Compound 3 was the most potent inhibitor with an IC50 of 44.10 µM and a Ki of 19.96 µM and a mixed-type mode of inhibition that favored binding in a competitive manner. Molecular docking identified crucial interactions with BACE-1 active site residues, supported by 100 ns MD simulations. The study highlighted the EBPDs therapeutic potential as BACE-1 inhibitors and multifunctional anti-AD therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- L S Zondagh
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, Western Cape 7535, South Africa
| | - S F Malan
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, Western Cape 7535, South Africa
| | - J Joubert
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, Western Cape 7535, South Africa.
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28
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Zeng W, Wang Y, Gao R, Wen H, Yu M. Unlocking the Reverse Targeting Mechanisms of Cannabidiol: Unveiling New Therapeutic Avenues. J Med Chem 2024. [PMID: 39092992 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c01353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main components of Cannabis sativa plants, have attracted a significant amount of attention due to their biological activities. This study identified GPR18 as the target of partial agonist CBD activating the p42/p44 MAPK pathway leading to migration of endometrial epithelial cells. Induced fit docking (IFD) showed that the affinity of THC for GPR18 is higher than that of CBD, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations showed that CBD-GPR18 complexes at 130/200 ns might have stable conformations, potentially activating GPR18 by changing the distances of key residues in its active pocket. In contrast, THC maintains "metastable" conformations, generating a "shrinking space" leading to full agonism of THC by adding mechanical constraints in GPR18's active pocket. Steered molecular dynamics (SMD) revealed GPR18's active pocket was influenced more by CBD's partial agonism compared with THC. This combined IFD-MD-SMD method may be used to explain the mechanism of activation of partial or full agonists of GPR18.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Zeng
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Yangtze Delta Region Academy of Beijing Institute of Technology, Jiaxing 314019, China
| | - Yifei Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Rui Gao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Hongliang Wen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Yangtze Delta Region Academy of Beijing Institute of Technology, Jiaxing 314019, China
| | - Mingjia Yu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
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29
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Caballero-Oteyza A, Crisponi L, Peng XP, Wang H, Mrovecova P, Olla S, Siguri C, Marnissi F, Jouhadi Z, Aksentijevich I, Grimbacher B, Proietti M. OTULIN-related conditions: Report of a new case and review of the literature using GenIA. Clin Immunol 2024; 265:110292. [PMID: 38914362 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2024.110292] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
OTULIN encodes an eponymous linear deubiquitinase (DUB) essential for controlling inflammation as a negative regulator of the canonical NF-κB signaling pathway via the regulation of M1-Ub dynamics. Biallelic loss-of-function (LOF) mutations in OTULIN cause an autosomal recessive condition named Otulin-Related Autoinflammatory Syndrome (ORAS), also known as Otulipenia or AutoInflammation, Panniculitis, and Dermatosis Syndrome (AIPDS). Monoallelic OTULIN LOF, also known as OTULIN Haploinsufficiency (OHI) or Immunodeficiency 107 (IMD107), has been linked to an incompletely penetrant, dominantly inherited susceptibility to invasive Staphylococcal infections. At the same time, a recent novel ORAS-like inflammatory syndrome was described in association with a heterozygous missense mutation that appears to exert dominant negative (DN) effects. In this manuscript, we report the identification of a novel homozygous missense mutation, c.595 T > A; p.(Trp199Arg), in a Moroccan infant with an ORAS phenotype and provide experimental evidence for its pathogenicity. We go on to systematically review the literature for OTULIN-associated conditions by using the GenIA database (www.geniadb.net) to collect, extract and harmonize all clinical, laboratory and functional data for published patients and variants. Our comprehensive synthesis of genotypic, phenotypic, and mechanistic data enables a more in-depth view of the diverse mechanisms and pathways by which the OTULIN pathogenic variants may lead to human immune disease. This review may help variant classification activities and inform future variant evaluation, as well as the development of diagnostic and management guidelines. It also identifies current knowledge gaps and raises additional questions warranting future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Caballero-Oteyza
- Clinic for Immunology and Rheumatology, Hanover Medical School, Hanover, Germany; Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; RESiST-Cluster of Excellence 2155, Hanover Medical School, Hanover, Germany.
| | - Laura Crisponi
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research (IRGB), The National Research Council (CNR), Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Xiao P Peng
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hongying Wang
- Inflammatory Disease Section, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Pavla Mrovecova
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stefania Olla
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research (IRGB), The National Research Council (CNR), Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Chiara Siguri
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research (IRGB), The National Research Council (CNR), Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Farida Marnissi
- Pathology Center university hospital, Ibn Rochd, University Hassan 2, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Zineb Jouhadi
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Immunopathology of Infectious and System Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, University Children's Hospital Ibn Rochd, University Hassan 2, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Ivona Aksentijevich
- Inflammatory Disease Section, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Bodo Grimbacher
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Clinic of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency (CCI), Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Germany; RESiST - Cluster of Excellence 2155 to Hanover Medical School, Satellite Center Freiburg, Germany; DZIF - German Center for Infection Research, Satellite Center Freiburg, Germany; CIBSS - Centre for Integrative Biological Signaling Studies, Albert-Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michele Proietti
- Clinic for Immunology and Rheumatology, Hanover Medical School, Hanover, Germany; Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, University Hospital Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; RESiST-Cluster of Excellence 2155, Hanover Medical School, Hanover, Germany.
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30
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De Salis SKF, Chen JZ, Skarratt KK, Fuller SJ, Balle T. Deep learning structural insights into heterotrimeric alternatively spliced P2X7 receptors. Purinergic Signal 2024; 20:431-447. [PMID: 38032425 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-023-09978-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
P2X7 receptors (P2X7Rs) are membrane-bound ATP-gated ion channels that are composed of three subunits. Different subunit structures may be expressed due to alternative splicing of the P2RX7 gene, altering the receptor's function when combined with the wild-type P2X7A subunits. In this study, the application of the deep-learning method, AlphaFold2-Multimer (AF2M), for the generation of trimeric P2X7Rs was validated by comparing an AF2M-generated rat wild-type P2X7A receptor with a structure determined by cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) (Protein Data Bank Identification: 6U9V). The results suggested AF2M could firstly, accurately predict the structures of P2X7Rs and secondly, accurately identify the highest quality model through the ranking system. Subsequently, AF2M was used to generate models of heterotrimeric alternatively spliced P2X7Rs consisting of one or two wild-type P2X7A subunits in combination with one or two P2X7B, P2X7E, P2X7J, and P2X7L splice variant subunits. The top-ranking models were deemed valid based on AF2M's confidence measures, stability in molecular dynamics simulations, and consistent flexibility of the conserved regions between the models. The structure of the heterotrimeric receptors, which were missing key residues in the ATP binding sites and carboxyl terminal domains (CTDs) compared to the wild-type receptor, help to explain their observed functions. Overall, the models produced in this study (available as supplementary material) unlock the possibility of structure-based studies into the heterotrimeric P2X7Rs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie K F De Salis
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia
- Sydney Pharmacy School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia
| | - Jake Zheng Chen
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia
- Sydney Pharmacy School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia
| | - Kristen K Skarratt
- The University of Sydney, Nepean Clinical School, Kingswood, NSW, 2747, Australia
| | - Stephen J Fuller
- The University of Sydney, Nepean Clinical School, Kingswood, NSW, 2747, Australia
| | - Thomas Balle
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia.
- Sydney Pharmacy School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia.
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31
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Mini M, Jayakumar D, Kumar P. In-silico and in-vitro assessment of the antibiofilm potential of azo dye, carmoisine against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:6700-6710. [PMID: 37485898 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2237579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Biofilm is a community of microorganisms attached to the substrate and plays a significant role in microbial pathogenesis and medical device-related infection. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) is a highly infectious gram-negative opportunistic biofilm-forming bacterium with high antibiotic resistance. Several reports underscore the antimicrobial activity of natural and synthetic food coloring agents, including carmoisine, turmeric dye, red amaranth dye, and phloxine B. However, their ability to suppress the PA biofilm is not clearly understood. Carmoisine is a red-colored synthetic azo dye containing naphthalene subunits and sulfonic groups and is widely used as a food coloring agent. This study investigated the antibiofilm potential and possible mechanism of biofilm inhibition by carmoisine against PA. Computational studies through molecular docking revealed that carmoisine strongly binds to QS regulator LasR (-12.7) and relatively less strongly but significantly with WspR (-6.9). Further analysis of the docked LasR-carmoisine complex using 100 ns MD simulation (Desmond, Schrödinger) validated the bonding strength and stability. Crystal violet assay, triphenyl tetrazolium chloride salt assay, and confocal microscopic studies were adopted for biofilm quantification, and the results indicated the dose-dependent antibiofilm activity of carmoisine against PA. We hypothesise that the carmoisine-mediated reduction of biofilm in PA is due to its interaction with LasR and interference with the QS system. The computational and biochemical analysis of another compound, 1,2-naphthoquinone-4-sulphonic acid, reiterated the role of the naphthalene ring in biofilm inhibition. Hence, this work will pave the way for the future discovery of antibiofilm drugs based on naphthalene ring-based lead compounds.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minsa Mini
- Department of Zoology, Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Devi Jayakumar
- Department of Zoology, Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Praveen Kumar
- Department of Zoology, Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
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32
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Srivastava DK, Navratna V, Tosh DK, Chinn A, Sk MF, Tajkhorshid E, Jacobson KA, Gouaux E. Structure of the human dopamine transporter and mechanisms of inhibition. Nature 2024; 632:672-677. [PMID: 39112705 PMCID: PMC11324517 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07739-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
The neurotransmitter dopamine has central roles in mood, appetite, arousal and movement1. Despite its importance in brain physiology and function, and as a target for illicit and therapeutic drugs, the human dopamine transporter (hDAT) and mechanisms by which it is inhibited by small molecules and Zn2+ are without a high-resolution structural context. Here we determine the structure of hDAT in a tripartite complex with the competitive inhibitor and cocaine analogue, (-)-2-β-carbomethoxy-3-β-(4-fluorophenyl)tropane2 (β-CFT), the non-competitive inhibitor MRS72923 and Zn2+ (ref. 4). We show how β-CFT occupies the central site, approximately halfway across the membrane, stabilizing the transporter in an outward-open conformation. MRS7292 binds to a structurally uncharacterized allosteric site, adjacent to the extracellular vestibule, sequestered underneath the extracellular loop 4 (EL4) and adjacent to transmembrane helix 1b (TM1b), acting as a wedge, precluding movement of TM1b and closure of the extracellular gate. A Zn2+ ion further stabilizes the outward-facing conformation by coupling EL4 to EL2, TM7 and TM8, thus providing specific insights into how Zn2+ restrains the movement of EL4 relative to EL2 and inhibits transport activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vikas Navratna
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Dilip K Tosh
- Molecular Recognition Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Audrey Chinn
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Md Fulbabu Sk
- Theoretical and Computational Biophysics Group, NIH Center for Macromolecular Modeling and Visualization, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Department of Biochemistry University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Emad Tajkhorshid
- Theoretical and Computational Biophysics Group, NIH Center for Macromolecular Modeling and Visualization, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Department of Biochemistry University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Kenneth A Jacobson
- Molecular Recognition Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Eric Gouaux
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
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Nascimento LAD, Ferreira GM, Ferreira EI. Exploring the conformational dynamics of the CRD4: a model for receptor lysosomal activity shifts in search of 'sweet' and 'sour' states. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:6448-6454. [PMID: 37440242 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2235603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
The macrophage mannose receptor (RMM) is a crucial component of the immune system involved in immune responses, inflammation resolution, and tissue remodeling. When RMM is activated by a specific ligand, it undergoes internalization, forming an endosome that matures into a lysosome. Within the lysosome, structural changes in RMM facilitate the dissociation of ligands for further processing. However, the precise details of these structural changes are not well understood. In this study, we used molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the conformational dynamics of a specific region called CRD4 in RMM. Our simulations explored different conditions, including pH variations and the presence of Ca2+ ions. By analyzing the simulation data, we found that conformational changes primarily occur in loop regions, while the secondary structure remains stable. The binding site of CRD4, essential for ligand interaction, is located on the protein surface between two specific loop regions. Ligand binding is stabilized by three important amino acids. Interestingly, the interaction patterns differ between monosaccharide and disaccharide ligands. These findings improve our understanding of CRD4's dynamics and how it recognizes ligands. They provide insights into the structure of CRD4 and its role in ligand dissociation within lysosomes. The study also highlights the significance of loop regions in functional dynamics and interactions. Further research is needed to fully uncover the complete structure of CRD4, understand ligand binding modes, and explore the influence of environmental factors. This study lays the foundation for future investigations targeting carbohydrate-protein interactions and the development of therapeutics based on RMM's unique properties.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Glaucio Monteiro Ferreira
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth Igne Ferreira
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Verma J, Vashisth H. Molecular basis for differential recognition of an allosteric inhibitor by receptor tyrosine kinases. Proteins 2024; 92:905-922. [PMID: 38506327 PMCID: PMC11222054 DOI: 10.1002/prot.26685] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Understanding kinase-inhibitor selectivity continues to be a major objective in kinase drug discovery. We probe the molecular basis of selectivity of an allosteric inhibitor (MSC1609119A-1) of the insulin-like growth factor-I receptor kinase (IGF1RK), which has been shown to be ineffective for the homologous insulin receptor kinase (IRK). Specifically, we investigated the structural and energetic basis of the allosteric binding of this inhibitor to each kinase by combining molecular modeling, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and thermodynamic calculations. We predict the inhibitor conformation in the binding pocket of IRK and highlight that the charged residues in the histidine-arginine-aspartic acid (HRD) and aspartic acid-phenylalanine-glycine (DFG) motifs and the nonpolar residues in the binding pocket govern inhibitor interactions in the allosteric pocket of each kinase. We suggest that the conformational changes in the IGF1RK residues M1054 and M1079, movement of the ⍺C-helix, and the conformational stabilization of the DFG motif favor the selectivity of the inhibitor toward IGF1RK. Our thermodynamic calculations reveal that the observed selectivity can be rationalized through differences observed in the electrostatic interaction energy of the inhibitor in each inhibitor/kinase complex and the hydrogen bonding interactions of the inhibitor with the residue V1063 in IGF1RK that are not attained with the corresponding residue V1060 in IRK. Overall, our study provides a rationale for the molecular basis of recognition of this allosteric inhibitor by IGF1RK and IRK, which is potentially useful in developing novel inhibitors with improved affinity and selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Verma
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824
| | - Harish Vashisth
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824
- Department of Chemistry, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824
- Integrated Applied Mathematics Program, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824
- Molecular and Cellular Biotechnology Program, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824
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Baber H, Aghajani A, Gallimore BH, Bethel C, Hyatt JG, King EFB, Price HP, Maciej-Hulme ML, Sari S, Winter A. Galactokinase-like protein from Leishmania donovani: Biochemical and structural characterization of a recombinant protein. Biochimie 2024; 223:31-40. [PMID: 38579894 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a spectrum of conditions caused by infection with the protozoan Leishmania spp. parasites. Leishmaniasis is endemic in 98 countries around the world, and resistance to current anti-leishmanial drugs is rising. Our work has identified and characterised a previously unstudied galactokinase-like protein (GalK) in Leishmania donovani, which catalyses the MgATP-dependent phosphorylation of the C-1 hydroxyl group of d-galactose to galactose-1-phosphate. Here, we report the production of the catalytically active recombinant protein in E. coli, determination of its substrate specificity and kinetic constants, as well as analysis of its molecular envelope using in solution X-ray scattering. Our results reveal kinetic parameters in range with other galactokinases with an average apparent Km value of 76 μM for galactose, Vmax and apparent Kcat values with 4.46376 × 10-9 M/s and 0.021 s-1, respectively. Substantial substrate promiscuity was observed, with galactose being the preferred substrate, followed by mannose, fructose and GalNAc. LdGalK has a highly flexible protein structure suggestive of multiple conformational states in solution, which may be the key to its substrate promiscuity. Our data presents novel insights into the galactose salvaging pathway in Leishmania and positions this protein as a potential target for the development of pharmaceuticals seeking to interfere with parasite substrate metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasana Baber
- School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Huxley Building, Keele, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK
| | - Arega Aghajani
- School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Huxley Building, Keele, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK
| | - B Harold Gallimore
- School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Huxley Building, Keele, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK
| | - Cassandra Bethel
- School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Huxley Building, Keele, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK
| | - James G Hyatt
- School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Huxley Building, Keele, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK
| | - Elizabeth F B King
- School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Huxley Building, Keele, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK
| | - Helen P Price
- School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Huxley Building, Keele, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK
| | - Marissa L Maciej-Hulme
- School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Huxley Building, Keele, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK
| | - Suat Sari
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, 06100, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Anja Winter
- School of Life Sciences, Keele University, Huxley Building, Keele, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK.
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Bachmann V, Schädel P, Westhoff J, Perić M, Schömberg F, Skaltsounis AL, Höppener S, Pantsar T, Fischer D, Vilotijević I, Werz O. Bromo-substituted indirubins for inhibition of protein kinase-mediated signalling involved in inflammatory mediator release in human monocytes. Bioorg Chem 2024; 149:107470. [PMID: 38838619 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107470] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Targeting protein kinases that regulate signalling pathways in inflammation is an effective pharmacological approach to alleviate uncontrolled inflammatory diseases. In this context, the natural product indirubin and its 6-bromo-substituted analogue 6-bromoindirubin-3 -glycerol-oxime ether (6BIGOE; 1) were identified as potent inhibitors of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β). These inhibitors suppress the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins (PG) from human monocytes. However, indirubin derivatives target several protein kinases such as cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) which has been a major concern for their application in inflammation therapy. Here, we report on a library of 13 5-bromo-substituted indirubin derivatives that have been designed to improve potency and target selectivity. Side-by-side comparison of reference compound 1 (6BIGOE) with 5-bromo derivatives revealed its isomer 2 (5BIGOE), as the most potent derivative able to supress pro-inflammatory cytokine and PG release in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human monocytes. Analysis of protein kinase inhibition in intact monocytes, supported by our in silico findings, proposed higher selectivity of 1 for GSK-3β inhibition with lesser potency against CDKs 8 and 9. In contrast, 2 supressed the activity of these CDKs with higher effectiveness than GSK-3β, representing additional targets of indirubins within the inflammatory response. Encapsulation of 1 and 2 into polymer-based nanoparticles (NP) improved their pharmacological potential. In conclusion, the 5- and 6-brominated indirubins 1 and 2 as dual GSK-3β and CDK8/9 inhibitors represent a novel concept for intervention with inflammatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivien Bachmann
- Department of Pharmaceutical/ Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 14, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Patrick Schädel
- Department of Pharmaceutical/ Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 14, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Jan Westhoff
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Cauerstraße 4, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Milica Perić
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstraße 10, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Fritz Schömberg
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstraße 10, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Alexios-Leandros Skaltsounis
- Department of Pharmacy, Division of Pharmacognosy and Natural Product Chemistry, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, GR-15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Stephanie Höppener
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstraße 10, 07743 Jena, Germany; Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Tatu Pantsar
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonrinne 3, FI-70210 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Dagmar Fischer
- Division of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Cauerstraße 4, 91058 Erlangen, Germany; Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany; FAU NeW - Research Center for New Bioactive Compounds, Nikolaus-Fiebiger-Str. 10, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ivan Vilotijević
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstraße 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.
| | - Oliver Werz
- Department of Pharmaceutical/ Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 14, 07743 Jena, Germany; Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany.
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Sebastian S, Rohila Y, Meenakshi, Ansari A, Sengupta S, Kumar D, Srivastava N, Kumar L, Gupta MK. Anti-quorum sensing activity of α-amidoamides against Agrobacterium tumefaciensNT1: Insights from molecular docking and dynamic investigations to synergistic approach of metronidazole release from gel formulations. Microb Pathog 2024; 193:106787. [PMID: 38992510 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
A unique approach is imperative for the development of drugs aimed at inhibiting various stages of infection, rather than solely focusing on bacterial viability. Among the array of unconventional targets explored for formulating novel antimicrobial medications, blocking the quorum-sensing (QS) system emerges as a highly effective and promising strategy against a variety of pathogenic microbes. In this investigation, we have successfully assessed nine α-aminoamides for their anti-QS activity using Agrobacterium tumefaciensNT1 as a biosensor strain. Among these compounds, three (2, 3and, 4) have been identified as potential anti-QS candidates. Molecular docking studies have further reinforced these findings, indicating that these compounds exhibit favorable pharmacokinetic profiles. Additionally, we have assessed the ligand's stability within the protein's binding pocket using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and MMGBSA analysis. Further, combination of antiquorum sensing properties with antibiotics viaself-assembly represents a promising approach to enhance antibacterial efficacy, overcome resistance, and mitigate the virulence of bacterial pathogens. The release study also reflects a slow and gradual release of the metronidazole at both pH 6.5 and pH 7.4, avoiding the peaks and troughs associated with more immediate release formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharol Sebastian
- Department of Chemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, 123031, Haryana, India
| | - Yajat Rohila
- Department of Chemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, 123031, Haryana, India
| | - Meenakshi
- Department of Chemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, 123031, Haryana, India
| | - Azaj Ansari
- Department of Chemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, 123031, Haryana, India.
| | - Sounok Sengupta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Solan, 173229, Himachal Pradesh, India; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Solan, 173229, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Deepak Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Solan, 173229, Himachal Pradesh, India.
| | - Namita Srivastava
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan, 173229, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Lokender Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University, Solan, 173229, Himachal Pradesh, India; Cancer Biology Laboratory, Raj Khosla Centre for Cancer Research, Shoolini University, Solan, 173229, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Manoj K Gupta
- Department of Chemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, 123031, Haryana, India.
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Güleç Ö, Türkeş C, Arslan M, Demir Y, Dincer B, Ece A, Beydemir Ş. Novel beta-lactam substituted benzenesulfonamides: in vitro enzyme inhibition, cytotoxic activity and in silico interactions. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:6359-6377. [PMID: 37540185 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2240889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
In this study, a library of twelve beta-lactam-substituted benzenesulfonamides (5a-l) was synthesized using the tail-approach method. The compounds were characterized using IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and elemental analysis techniques. These newly synthesized compounds were tested for their ability to inhibit the activity of two carbonic anhydrases (hCA) isoforms, I and II, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in vitro. The results showed that the synthesized compounds were potent inhibitors of hCA I, with KIs in the low nanomolar range (66.60-278.40 nM) than the reference drug acetazolamide (AAZ), which had a KI of 439.17 nM. The hCA II was potently inhibited by compounds 5a, 5d-g and 5l, with KIs of 69.56, 39.64, 79.63, 74.76, 78.93 and 74.94 nM, respectively (AAZ, KI of 98.28 nM). Notably, compound 5a selectively inhibited hCA II with a selectivity of > 4-fold over hCA I. In terms of inhibition of AChE, the synthesized compounds had KIs ranging from 30.95 to 154.50 nM, compared to the reference drug tacrine, which had a KI of 159.61 nM. Compounds 5f, 5h and 5l were also evaluated for their ability to inhibit the MCF-7 cancer cell line proliferation and were found to have promising anticancer activity, more potent than 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin. Molecular docking studies suggested that the sulfonamide moiety of these compounds fits snugly into the active sites of hCAs and interacts with the Zn2+ ion. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations were performed for 200 ns to assess the stability and dynamics of each enzyme-ligand complex. The acceptability of the compounds based on Lipinski's and Jorgensen's rules was also estimated from the ADME/T results. These results indicate that the synthesized molecules have the potential to be developed into effective and safe inhibitors of hCAs and AChE and could be lead agents.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özcan Güleç
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Arts and Science, Sakarya University, Sakarya, Turkey
| | - Cüneyt Türkeş
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, Erzincan, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Arslan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Arts and Science, Sakarya University, Sakarya, Turkey
| | - Yeliz Demir
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Nihat Delibalta Göle Vocational High School, Ardahan University, Ardahan, Turkey
| | - Busra Dincer
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, Erzincan, Turkey
| | - Abdulilah Ece
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Biruni University, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Şükrü Beydemir
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Anadolu University, Eskişehir, Turkey
- Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University, Bilecik, Turkey
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Soufi H, Moussaoui M, Baammi S, Baassi M, Salah M, Daoud R, El Allali A, Belghiti ME, Moutaabbid M, Belaaouad S. Multi-combined QSAR, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and ADMET of Flavonoid derivatives as potent cholinesterase inhibitors. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:6027-6041. [PMID: 37485860 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2238314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
In searching for a new and efficient therapeutic agent against Alzheimer's disease, a Quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) was derived for 45 Flavonoid derivatives recently synthesized and evaluated as cholinesterase inhibitors. The multiple linear regression method (MLR) was adopted to develop an adequate mathematical model that describes the relationship between a variety of molecular descriptors of the studied compounds and their biological activities (cholinesterase inhibitors). Golbraikh and Tropsha criteria were applied to verify the validity of the built model. The built MLR model was statistically reliable, robust, and predictive (R2 = 0.801, Q2cv = 0.876, R2test = 0.824). Dreiding energy and Molar Refractivity were the major factors that govern the Anti-cholinesterase activity. These results were further exploited to design a new series of Flavonoid derivatives with higher Anti-cholinesterase activities than the existing ones. Thereafter, molecular docking and molecular dynamic studies were performed to predict the binding types of the designed compounds and to investigate their stability at the active site of the Butyrylcholinestérase BuChE protein. The negative and low binding affinity calculated for all designed compounds shows that designed compound 1 has a favorable affinity for the 4TPK. Moreover, molecular dynamics simulation studies confirmed the stability of designed compound 1 in the active pocket of 4TPK over 100 ns. Finally, the ADMET analysis was incorporated to analyze the pharmacokinetics and toxicity parameters. The designed compounds were found to meet the ADMET descriptor criteria at an acceptable level having respectable intestinal permeability and water solubility and can reach the intended destinations.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hatim Soufi
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Materials, Faculty of Sciences Ben M'Sick, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Benguerir, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Moussaoui
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Materials, Faculty of Sciences Ben M'Sick, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Benguerir, Morocco
| | - Soukayna Baammi
- African Genome Centre (AGC), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Benguerir, Morocco
| | - Mouna Baassi
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Materials, Faculty of Sciences Ben M'Sick, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Benguerir, Morocco
| | - Mohammed Salah
- Team of Chemoinformatics Research and Spectroscopy and Quantum Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University Chouaib Doukkali, El Jadida, Morocco
| | - Rachid Daoud
- African Genome Centre (AGC), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Benguerir, Morocco
| | - Achraf El Allali
- African Genome Centre (AGC), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Benguerir, Morocco
| | - M E Belghiti
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Materials, Faculty of Sciences Ben M'Sick, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Benguerir, Morocco
- Laboratory of Nernest Technology, Sherbrook, QC, Canada
| | - Mohammed Moutaabbid
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Materials, Faculty of Sciences Ben M'Sick, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Benguerir, Morocco
| | - Said Belaaouad
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Materials, Faculty of Sciences Ben M'Sick, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Benguerir, Morocco
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Kaur N, Singh R, Dhingra N, Kaur T. 5-Phenyl valeric acid attenuates α-synuclein aggregation and endoplasmic reticulum stress in rotenone-induced Parkinson's disease rats: A molecular mechanistic study. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 226:116343. [PMID: 38852645 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116343] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The abnormal accumulation of fibrillar α-synuclein in the substantia nigra contributes to Parkinson's disease (PD). Chemical chaperones like 4-phenyl butyric acid (4PBA) show neuroprotective potential, but high doses are required. A derivative, 5-phenyl valeric acid (5PVA), has reported therapeutic potential for PD by reducing Pael-R expression. This study assessed 5PVA's efficacy in PD animals and its molecular mechanism. In vitro studies revealed 5PVA's anti-aggregation ability against alpha-synuclein and neuroprotective effects on SHSY5Y neuroblastoma cells exposed to rotenone. PD-like symptoms were induced in SD rats with rotenone, followed by 5PVA treatment at 100 mg/kg and 130 mg/kg. Behavioral analysis showed significant improvement in memory and motor activity with 5PVA administration. Histopathological studies demonstrated normal neuronal histoarchitecture in mid-brain tissue sections of 5PVA-treated animals compared to the PD group. mRNA studies revealed significant suppression in the expression of various protein folding and heat-shock protein markers in the 5PVA-treated group. In conclusion, 5PVA, with its anti-aggregation ability against alpha-synuclein, acts as a chemical chaperone, showing potential as a therapeutic candidate for PD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navpreet Kaur
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India 160014
| | - Rimaljot Singh
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India 160014
| | - Neelima Dhingra
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India 160014
| | - Tanzeer Kaur
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India 160014.
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Kugler V, Schwaighofer S, Feichtner A, Enzler F, Fleischmann J, Strich S, Schwarz S, Wilson R, Tschaikner P, Troppmair J, Sexl V, Meier P, Kaserer T, Stefan E. Impact of protein and small molecule interactions on kinase conformations. eLife 2024; 13:RP94755. [PMID: 39088265 PMCID: PMC11293870 DOI: 10.7554/elife.94755] [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] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein kinases act as central molecular switches in the control of cellular functions. Alterations in the regulation and function of protein kinases may provoke diseases including cancer. In this study we investigate the conformational states of such disease-associated kinases using the high sensitivity of the kinase conformation (KinCon) reporter system. We first track BRAF kinase activity conformational changes upon melanoma drug binding. Second, we also use the KinCon reporter technology to examine the impact of regulatory protein interactions on LKB1 kinase tumor suppressor functions. Third, we explore the conformational dynamics of RIP kinases in response to TNF pathway activation and small molecule interactions. Finally, we show that CDK4/6 interactions with regulatory proteins alter conformations which remain unaffected in the presence of clinically applied inhibitors. Apart from its predictive value, the KinCon technology helps to identify cellular factors that impact drug efficacies. The understanding of the structural dynamics of full-length protein kinases when interacting with small molecule inhibitors or regulatory proteins is crucial for designing more effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Kugler
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), University of InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI)InnsbruckAustria
| | - Selina Schwaighofer
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), University of InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI)InnsbruckAustria
| | - Andreas Feichtner
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), University of InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI)InnsbruckAustria
| | - Florian Enzler
- Daniel Swarovski Research Laboratory, Department of Visceral, Transplant and Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
| | - Jakob Fleischmann
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), University of InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI)InnsbruckAustria
| | - Sophie Strich
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), University of InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI)InnsbruckAustria
| | - Sarah Schwarz
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI)InnsbruckAustria
| | - Rebecca Wilson
- The Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Philipp Tschaikner
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI)InnsbruckAustria
- KinCon biolabs GmbHInnsbruckAustria
| | - Jakob Troppmair
- Daniel Swarovski Research Laboratory, Department of Visceral, Transplant and Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
| | | | - Pascal Meier
- The Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer ResearchLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Teresa Kaserer
- Institute of Pharmacy/Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), University of InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
| | - Eduard Stefan
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), University of InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI)InnsbruckAustria
- KinCon biolabs GmbHInnsbruckAustria
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Bharti J, Verma R, Gupta I, Chakraborty P, Eashwaran M, Sony SK, Nehra M, Thangraj A, Kaul R, Fathy K, Kaul T. Functional characterization of novel mutations in the conserved region of EPSPS for herbicide resistance in pigeonpea: structure-based coherent design. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:6065-6080. [PMID: 37652402 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2243522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Prospectively, agroecosystems for the growth of crops provide the potential fertile, productive, and tropical environment which attracts infestation by weedy plant species that compete with the primary crop plants. Infestation by weed is a major biotic stress factor faced by pigeonpea that hampers the productivity of the crop. In the modern era with the development of chemicals the problem of weed infestation is dealt with armours called herbicides. The most widely utilized, post-emergent, broad-spectrum herbicide has an essential active ingredient called glyphosate. Glyphosate mechanistically inhibits a chloroplastic enzyme 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) by competitively interacting with the PEP binding site which hinders the shikimate pathway and the production of essential aromatic amino acids (Phe, Tyr, Trp) and other secondary metabolites in plants. Moreover, herbicide spray for weed management is lethal to both the primary crop and the weeds. Therefore, it is critical to develop herbicide-resistant crops for field purposes to reduce the associated yield and economic losses. In this study, the in-silico analysis drove the selection and validation of the point mutations in the conserved region of the EPSPS gene, which confers efficient herbicide resistance to mutated-CcEPSPS enzyme along with the retention of the normal enzyme function. An optimized in-silico validation of the target mutation before the development of the genome-edited resistant plant lines is a prerequisite for testing their efficacy as a proof of concept. We validated the combination of GATIPS mutation for its no-cost effect at the enzyme level via molecular dynamic (MD) simulation.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotsna Bharti
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops Group, Plant Biology & Biotechnology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, India
| | - Rachana Verma
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops Group, Plant Biology & Biotechnology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, India
| | - Isha Gupta
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops Group, Plant Biology & Biotechnology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, India
| | - Puja Chakraborty
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops Group, Plant Biology & Biotechnology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, India
| | - Murugesh Eashwaran
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops Group, Plant Biology & Biotechnology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, India
| | - Sonia Khan Sony
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops Group, Plant Biology & Biotechnology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, India
| | - Mamta Nehra
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops Group, Plant Biology & Biotechnology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, India
| | - Arulprakash Thangraj
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops Group, Plant Biology & Biotechnology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, India
| | - Rashmi Kaul
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops Group, Plant Biology & Biotechnology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, India
| | - Khaled Fathy
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops Group, Plant Biology & Biotechnology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, India
| | - Tanushri Kaul
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops Group, Plant Biology & Biotechnology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, India
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Matsuyama-Ito R, Hogiri T, Kishida H, Takedomi K, Okada O, Nishizawa A, Higashi-Nakatani S, Omasa T. Generation of novel respiratory syncytial virus vaccine candidate antigens that can induce high levels of prefusion-specific antibodies. J Biosci Bioeng 2024; 138:127-136. [PMID: 38851988 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2024.05.008] [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: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection is an acute respiratory infection caused by RSV. It occurs worldwide, and for over 50 years, several attempts have been made to research and develop vaccines to prevent RSV infection; effective preventive vaccines are eagerly awaited. The RSV fusion (F) protein, which has gained attention as a vaccine antigen, causes a dynamic structural change from the preF to postF state. Therefore, the structural changes in proteins must be regulated to produce a vaccine antigen that can efficiently induce antibodies with high virus-neutralizing activity. We successfully discovered several mutations that stabilized the antigen site Ø in the preF state, trimerized it, and improved the level of protein expression through observation and computational analysis of the RSV-F protein structure and amino acid mutation analysis of RSV strains. The four RSV-F protein mutants that resulted from the combination of these effective mutations stably conserved a wide range of preF- and trimeric preF-specific epitopes with high virus-neutralizing activity. Absorption assay using human serum revealed that mutants constructed bound to antibodies with virus-neutralizing activity that were induced by natural RSV infection, whereas they hardly bound to anti-postF antibodies without virus-neutralizing activity. Furthermore, mouse immunization demonstrated that our constructed mutants induced a high percentage of antibodies that bind to the preF-specific antigen site. These characteristics suggest that the mutants constructed can be superior vaccine antigens from the viewpoint of RSV infection prevention effect and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rima Matsuyama-Ito
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Modality Laboratories, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 2-26-1 Muraoka-Higashi, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 251-8555, Japan.
| | - Tomoharu Hogiri
- Modality Laboratories, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000 Kamoshida-cho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 227-0033, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kishida
- Discovery Technology Laboratories, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000 Kamoshida-cho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 227-0033, Japan
| | - Kei Takedomi
- Discovery Technology Laboratories, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000 Kamoshida-cho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 227-0033, Japan
| | - Okimasa Okada
- Discovery Technology Laboratories, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000 Kamoshida-cho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 227-0033, Japan
| | - Akitoshi Nishizawa
- Modality Laboratories, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 2-26-1 Muraoka-Higashi, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 251-8555, Japan
| | - Sakiko Higashi-Nakatani
- Modality Laboratories, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000 Kamoshida-cho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 227-0033, Japan
| | - Takeshi Omasa
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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Kumar GS, Dubey A, Panda SP, Alawi MM, Sindi AA, Azhar EI, Dwivedi VD, Agrawal S. Repurposing of antibacterial compounds for suppression of Mycobacterium tuberculosis dormancy reactivation by targeting resuscitation-promoting factors B. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:6850-6862. [PMID: 37551014 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2245059] [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] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Tuberculosis infection has always been a global concern for public health, and the mortality rate has increased tremendously every year. The ability of the resuscitation Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) from the dormant state is one of the major reasons for the epidemic spread of tuberculosis infection, especially latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). The element that encourages resuscitation, RpfB (resuscitation-promoting factors B), is mostly in charge of bringing Mtb out of slumber. This reason makes RpfB a promising target for developing tuberculosis drugs because of the effects of latent tuberculosis. Therefore, this work was executed using a computational three-level screening of the Selleckhem antibiotics database consisting of 462 antibiotics against the ligand binding region of the RpfB protein, followed by an estimation of binding free energy for ideal identification and confirmation of potential RpfB inhibitor. Subsequently, three antibiotic drug molecules, i.e., Amikacin hydrate (-66.87 kcal/mol), Isepamicin sulphate (-60.8 kcal/mol), and Bekanamycin (-46.89 kcal/mol), were selected on the basis of their binding free energy value for further computational studies in comparison to reference ligand, 4-benzoyl-2-nitrophenyl thiocyanate (NPT7). Based on the intermolecular interaction profiling, 200 ns molecular dynamic simulation (MD), post-simulation analysis and principal component analysis (PCA), the selected antibiotics showed substantial stability with the RpfB protein compared to the NPT7 inhibitor. Conclusively based on the computational results, the preferred drugs can be potent inhibitors of the RpfB protein, which can be further validated using in vivo research and in vitro enzyme inhibition to understand their therapeutic activity against tuberculosis infection.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geethu S Kumar
- Department of Life Science, School of Basic Science and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Amit Dubey
- Computational Chemistry and Drug Discovery Division, Quanta Calculus, Greater Noida, India
| | - Siva Prasad Panda
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, India
| | - Maha M Alawi
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anees A Sindi
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Department, International Medical Center Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Esam I Azhar
- Special Infectious Agents Unit-BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Sharad Agrawal
- Department of Life Science, School of Basic Science and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
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45
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Patrick C, Ettah U, Nguyen V, Hart C, Atchley E, Mallela K, Scheinman RI, Monte AA. Functional differences in the mu opioid receptor SNP 118A>G are dependent on receptor splice-variant and agonist-specific recruitment of β-arrestin. Clin Transl Sci 2024; 17:e13888. [PMID: 39118392 PMCID: PMC11310404 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The OPRM1 gene codes for the mu opioid receptor (MOR) and polymorphisms are associated with complex patient clinical responses. The most studied single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in OPRM1 is adenine (A) substituted by guanine (G) at position 118 (118A>G, rs1799971) leading to a substitution of asparagine (Asn) for aspartic acid (Asp) at position 40 in the N terminus of the resulting protein. To date, no structural explanation for the associated clinical responses resulting from the 118A>G polymorphism has been proposed. We utilized computational modeling paired with functional cellular assays to predict unstructured N- and C-terminal regions of MOR-1. Using molecular docking and post-docking energy minimizations with morphine, we show that the extracellular substitution of Asn at position 40 alters the cytoplasmic C-terminal conformation, while leaving the G-protein binding interface unaffected. A real-time BRET assay measuring G-protein and β-arrestin association with MOR r generated data that tested this prediction. Consistent with this in silico prediction, we show changes in morphine-mediated β-arrestin association with receptor variants with little change in morphine-mediated G-protein association comparing MOR-1 wild type (WT) to MOR-1118A>G. We tested the system with different opioid agonists, the OPRM1 118A>G SNP, and different MOR splice variants (MOR-1 and MOR-1O). These results are consistent with the observation that patients with the 118A>G OPRM1 allele respond more readily to fentanyl than to morphine. In conclusion, the 118A>G substitution alters receptor responses to opioids through variable C-terminal domain movements that are agonist and splice variant dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey Patrick
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ColoradoAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Utibeabasi Ettah
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ColoradoAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Vu Nguyen
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ColoradoAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Caitlin Hart
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ColoradoAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Evan Atchley
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ColoradoAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Krishna Mallela
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ColoradoAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Robert I. Scheinman
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ColoradoAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Andrew A. Monte
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ColoradoAuroraColoradoUSA
- Center for Bioinformatics & Personalized MedicineUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
- Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
- Rocky Mountain Poison & Drug CenterDenver Health and Hospital AuthorityDenverColoradoUSA
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46
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Ábrányi-Balogh P, Bajusz D, Orgován Z, Keeley AB, Petri L, Péczka N, Szalai TV, Pálfy G, Gadanecz M, Grant EK, Imre T, Takács T, Ranđelović I, Baranyi M, Marton A, Schlosser G, Ashraf QF, de Araujo ED, Karancsi T, Buday L, Tóvári J, Perczel A, Bush JT, Keserű GM. Mapping protein binding sites by photoreactive fragment pharmacophores. Commun Chem 2024; 7:168. [PMID: 39085342 PMCID: PMC11292009 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-024-01252-w] [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: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Fragment screening is a popular strategy of generating viable chemical starting points especially for challenging targets. Although fragments provide a better coverage of chemical space and they have typically higher chance of binding, their weak affinity necessitates highly sensitive biophysical assays. Here, we introduce a screening concept that combines evolutionary optimized fragment pharmacophores with the use of a photoaffinity handle that enables high hit rates by LC-MS-based detection. The sensitivity of our screening protocol was further improved by a target-conjugated photocatalyst. We have designed, synthesized, and screened 100 diazirine-tagged fragments against three benchmark and three therapeutically relevant protein targets of different tractability. Our therapeutic targets included a conventional enzyme, the first bromodomain of BRD4, a protein-protein interaction represented by the oncogenic KRasG12D protein, and the yet unliganded N-terminal domain of the STAT5B transcription factor. We have discovered several fragment hits against all three targets and identified their binding sites via enzymatic digestion, structural studies and modeling. Our results revealed that this protocol outperforms screening traditional fully functionalized and photoaffinity fragments in better exploration of the available binding sites and higher hit rates observed for even difficult targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Péter Ábrányi-Balogh
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- National Drug Research and Development Laboratory, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Organic Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dávid Bajusz
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- National Drug Research and Development Laboratory, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Orgován
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- National Drug Research and Development Laboratory, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Aaron B Keeley
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - László Petri
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- National Drug Research and Development Laboratory, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Nikolett Péczka
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- National Drug Research and Development Laboratory, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Organic Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tibor Viktor Szalai
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- National Drug Research and Development Laboratory, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gyula Pálfy
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and Biology & HUN-REN-ELTE Protein Modelling Research Group, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Márton Gadanecz
- National Drug Research and Development Laboratory, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and Biology & HUN-REN-ELTE Protein Modelling Research Group, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- Hevesy György PhD School of Chemistry, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Tímea Imre
- National Drug Research and Development Laboratory, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- MS Metabolomics Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Takács
- National Drug Research and Development Laboratory, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Signal Transduction and Functional Genomics Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ivan Ranđelović
- National Tumor Biology Laboratory and Department of Experimental Pharmacology, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
- KINETO Lab Ltd, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Marcell Baranyi
- KINETO Lab Ltd, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Pathology, Forensic and Insurance Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Marton
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Process Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary
- Waters Research Center, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gitta Schlosser
- MTA-ELTE Lendület Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometry Research Group, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Qirat F Ashraf
- Department of Chemical & Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Elvin D de Araujo
- Centre for Medicinal Chemistry, University of Toronto at Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Tamás Karancsi
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Process Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary
- Waters Research Center, Budapest, Hungary
| | - László Buday
- National Drug Research and Development Laboratory, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Signal Transduction and Functional Genomics Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - József Tóvári
- National Tumor Biology Laboratory and Department of Experimental Pharmacology, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Perczel
- National Drug Research and Development Laboratory, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Laboratory of Structural Chemistry and Biology & HUN-REN-ELTE Protein Modelling Research Group, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - György M Keserű
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Group, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.
- National Drug Research and Development Laboratory, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Organic Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary.
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47
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Paciotti R, Re N, Storchi L. Combining the Fragment Molecular Orbital and GRID Approaches for the Prediction of Ligand-Metalloenzyme Binding Affinity: The Case Study of hCA II Inhibitors. Molecules 2024; 29:3600. [PMID: 39125005 PMCID: PMC11313991 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29153600] [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: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Polarization and charge-transfer interactions play an important role in ligand-receptor complexes containing metals, and only quantum mechanics methods can adequately describe their contribution to the binding energy. In this work, we selected a set of benzenesulfonamide ligands of human Carbonic Anhydrase II (hCA II)-an important druggable target containing a Zn2+ ion in the active site-as a case study to predict the binding free energy in metalloprotein-ligand complexes and designed specialized computational methods that combine the ab initio fragment molecular orbital (FMO) method and GRID approach. To reproduce the experimental binding free energy in these systems, we adopted a machine-learning approach, here named formula generator (FG), considering different FMO energy terms, the hydrophobic interaction energy (computed by GRID) and logP. The main advantage of the FG approach is that it can find nonlinear relations between the energy terms used to predict the binding free energy, explicitly showing their mathematical relation. This work showed the effectiveness of the FG approach, and therefore, it might represent an important tool for the development of new scoring functions. Indeed, our scoring function showed a high correlation with the experimental binding free energy (R2 = 0.76-0.95, RMSE = 0.34-0.18), revealing a nonlinear relation between energy terms and highlighting the relevant role played by hydrophobic contacts. These results, along with the FMO characterization of ligand-receptor interactions, represent important information to support the design of new and potent hCA II inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Paciotti
- Department of Pharmacy, Università “G. D’Annunzio” Di Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (N.R.); (L.S.)
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48
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Monroy-Cárdenas M, Almarza C, Valenzuela-Hormazábal P, Ramírez D, Urra FA, Martínez-Cifuentes M, Araya-Maturana R. Identification of Antioxidant Methyl Derivatives of Ortho-Carbonyl Hydroquinones That Reduce Caco-2 Cell Energetic Metabolism and Alpha-Glucosidase Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8334. [PMID: 39125904 PMCID: PMC11313435 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158334] [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: 07/09/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
α-glucosidase, a pharmacological target for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), is present in the intestinal brush border membrane and catalyzes the hydrolysis of sugar linkages during carbohydrate digestion. Since α-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs) modulate intestinal metabolism, they may influence oxidative stress and glycolysis inhibition, potentially addressing intestinal dysfunction associated with T2DM. Herein, we report on a study of an ortho-carbonyl substituted hydroquinone series, whose members differ only in the number and position of methyl groups on a common scaffold, on radical-scavenging activities (ORAC assay) and correlate them with some parameters obtained by density functional theory (DFT) analysis. These compounds' effect on enzymatic activity, their molecular modeling on α-glucosidase, and their impact on the mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis of the intestinal Caco-2 cell line were evaluated. Three groups of compounds, according their effects on the Caco-2 cells metabolism, were characterized: group A (compounds 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, and 10) reduces the glycolysis, group B (compounds 1 and 6) reduces the basal mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and increases the extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), suggesting that it induces a metabolic remodeling toward glycolysis, and group C (compounds 4 and 7) increases the glycolysis lacking effect on OCR. Compounds 5 and 10 were more potent as α-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs) than acarbose, a well-known AGI with clinical use. Moreover, compound 5 was an OCR/ECAR inhibitor, and compound 10 was a dual agent, increasing the proton leak-driven OCR and inhibiting the maximal electron transport flux. Additionally, menadione-induced ROS production was prevented by compound 5 in Caco-2 cells. These results reveal that slight structural variations in a hydroquinone scaffold led to diverse antioxidant capability, α-glucosidase inhibition, and the regulation of mitochondrial bioenergetics in Caco-2 cells, which may be useful in the design of new drugs for T2DM and metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matías Monroy-Cárdenas
- Escuela de Química, Facultad de Química y de Farmacia, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Santiago 7820436, Chile
- MIBI—Interdisciplinary Group on Mitochondrial Targeting and Bioenergetics, Universidad de Talca, P.O. Box 747, Talca 3460000, Chile; (C.A.); (F.A.U.)
| | - Cristopher Almarza
- MIBI—Interdisciplinary Group on Mitochondrial Targeting and Bioenergetics, Universidad de Talca, P.O. Box 747, Talca 3460000, Chile; (C.A.); (F.A.U.)
- Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Av. Independencia 1027, Santiago 7810000, Chile
- Metabolic Plasticity and Bioenergetics Laboratory, Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Av. Independencia 1027, Santiago 7810000, Chile
| | - Paulina Valenzuela-Hormazábal
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4030000, Chile; (P.V.-H.); (D.R.)
| | - David Ramírez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4030000, Chile; (P.V.-H.); (D.R.)
| | - Félix A. Urra
- MIBI—Interdisciplinary Group on Mitochondrial Targeting and Bioenergetics, Universidad de Talca, P.O. Box 747, Talca 3460000, Chile; (C.A.); (F.A.U.)
- Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Av. Independencia 1027, Santiago 7810000, Chile
- Metabolic Plasticity and Bioenergetics Laboratory, Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Av. Independencia 1027, Santiago 7810000, Chile
| | - Maximiliano Martínez-Cifuentes
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad de Concepción, Edmundo Larenas 129, Concepción 4070371, Chile
| | - Ramiro Araya-Maturana
- MIBI—Interdisciplinary Group on Mitochondrial Targeting and Bioenergetics, Universidad de Talca, P.O. Box 747, Talca 3460000, Chile; (C.A.); (F.A.U.)
- Instituto de Química de Recursos Naturales, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile
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49
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Ibrahim PEGF, Zuccotto F, Zachariae U, Gilbert I, Bodkin M. Accurate prediction of dynamic protein-ligand binding using P-score ranking. J Comput Chem 2024; 45:1762-1778. [PMID: 38647338 DOI: 10.1002/jcc.27370] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Protein-ligand binding prediction typically relies on docking methodologies and associated scoring functions to propose the binding mode of a ligand in a biological target. Significant challenges are associated with this approach, including the flexibility of the protein-ligand system, solvent-mediated interactions, and associated entropy changes. In addition, scoring functions are only weakly accurate due to the short time required for calculating enthalpic and entropic binding interactions. The workflow described here attempts to address these limitations by combining supervised molecular dynamics with dynamical averaging quantum mechanics fragment molecular orbital. This combination significantly increased the ability to predict the experimental binding structure of protein-ligand complexes independent from the starting position of the ligands or the binding site conformation. We found that the predictive power could be enhanced by combining the residence time and interaction energies as descriptors in a novel scoring function named the P-score. This is illustrated using six different protein-ligand targets as case studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter E G F Ibrahim
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Fabio Zuccotto
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Ulrich Zachariae
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Ian Gilbert
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Mike Bodkin
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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50
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Grigoreva TA, Vorona SV, Novikova DS, Tribulovich VG. Rational Design Problematics of Peptide Nucleic Acids as SARS-CoV-2 Inhibitors. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:33000-33010. [PMID: 39100288 PMCID: PMC11292644 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c04023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
The use of viral protein inhibitors has shown to be insufficiently effective in the case of highly variable SARS-CoV-2. In this work, we examined the possibility of designing agents that bind to a highly conserved region of coronavirus (+)RNA. We demonstrated that while the design of antisense RNAs is based on the complementary interaction of nitrogenous bases, it is possible to use semirigid docking methods in the case of unnatural peptide nucleic acids. The transition from N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine chain to a more conformationally rigid piperidine-containing backbone allowed us to significantly increase the affinity of structures to the target RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatyana A. Grigoreva
- Laboratory of Molecular
Pharmacology, St. Petersburg State Institute of Technology (Technical
University), Moskovskii pr., 26, St. Petersburg 190013, Russia
| | - Svetlana V. Vorona
- Laboratory of Molecular
Pharmacology, St. Petersburg State Institute of Technology (Technical
University), Moskovskii pr., 26, St. Petersburg 190013, Russia
| | - Daria S. Novikova
- Laboratory of Molecular
Pharmacology, St. Petersburg State Institute of Technology (Technical
University), Moskovskii pr., 26, St. Petersburg 190013, Russia
| | - Vyacheslav G. Tribulovich
- Laboratory of Molecular
Pharmacology, St. Petersburg State Institute of Technology (Technical
University), Moskovskii pr., 26, St. Petersburg 190013, Russia
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