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Berenger F, Tsuda K. An ANI-2 enabled open-source protocol to estimate ligand strain after docking. J Comput Chem 2024. [PMID: 39367774 DOI: 10.1002/jcc.27478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/07/2024]
Abstract
In protein-ligand docking, the score assigned to a protein-ligand complex is approximate. Especially, the internal energy of the ligand is difficult to compute precisely using a molecular mechanics based force-field, introducing significant noise in the rank-ordering of ligands. We propose an open-source protocol (https://github.com/UnixJunkie/MMO), using two quantum mechanics (QM) single point energy calculations, plus a Monte Carlo (Monte Carlo) based ligand minimization procedure in-between, to estimate ligand strain after docking. The MC simulation uses the ANI-2x (QM approximating) force field and is performed in the dihedral space. On some protein targets, using strain filtering after docking allows to significantly improve hit rates. We performed a structure-based virtual screening campaign on nine protein targets from the Laboratoire d'Innovation Thérapeutique-PubChem assays dataset using Cambridge crystallographic data centre genetic optimization for ligand docking. Then, docked ligands were submitted to the strain estimation protocol and the impact on hit rate was analyzed. As for docking, the method does not always work. However, if sufficient active and inactive molecules are known for a given protein target, its efficiency can be evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francois Berenger
- Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Koji Tsuda
- Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
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2
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Feng J, Huang Z, Cui C, Zhao M, Feng Y. Synthesis, taste characteristics and taste mechanism of N-lactoyl leucine from soy sauce using sensory analysis and UPLC-MS/MS. Food Chem 2024; 454:139670. [PMID: 38820630 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.139670] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Recently, amino acid derivatives gradually gained attention, but studies on N-lactoyl-leucine (Lac-Leu) and N-lactoyl-isoleucine (Lac-Ile) are limited. This study aims to explore the contributions of Lac-Leu and Lac-Ile to soy sauce. Lac-Leu and Lac-Ile were synthesized via enzymatic synthesis method catalyzed by Tgase. The mixed solutions containing Lac-Leu were found to have greater taste improvement than those containing Lac-Ile. Sensory evaluation indicated the sour, bitter, and astringent taste of Lac-Leu in water as well as its kokumi, astringent, and umami-enhancing taste in MSG solution. The taste threshold and umami-enhancing threshold of Lac-Leu measured by TDA and cTDA, respectively, were 0.08 mg/mL and 0.16 mg/mL. Molecular docking of Lac-Leu and Lac-Ile with the kokumi receptor CaSR and the umami receptors T1R1 and T1R3 indicated that Lac-Leu had higher affinities with receptors than Lac-Ile. These findings demonstrated the underlying contribution Lac-Leu made to soy sauce, indicating its potential to improve the flavor quality of soy sauce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junwei Feng
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China; Guangdong Food Green Processing and Nutrition Regulation Technologies Research Center, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Zikun Huang
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China; Guangdong Food Green Processing and Nutrition Regulation Technologies Research Center, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Chun Cui
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Mouming Zhao
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China; Guangdong Food Green Processing and Nutrition Regulation Technologies Research Center, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Yunzi Feng
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China; Guangdong Food Green Processing and Nutrition Regulation Technologies Research Center, Guangzhou 510650, China.
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3
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Jenni R, Klaa H, Khamessi O, Chikhaoui A, Najjar D, Ghedira K, Kraoua I, Turki I, Yacoub-Youssef H. Clinical and genetic spectrum of Ataxia Telangiectasia Tunisian patients: Bioinformatic analysis unveil mechanisms of ATM variants pathogenicity. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 278:134444. [PMID: 39098699 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134444] [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: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 07/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Ataxia Telangiectasia (AT) is a rare multisystemic neurodegenerative disease caused by biallelic mutations in the ATM gene. Few clinical studies on AT disease have been conducted in Tunisia, however, the mutational landscape is still undefined. Our aim is to determine the clinical and genetic spectrum of AT Tunisian patients and to explore the potential underlying mechanism of variant pathogenicity. Sanger sequencing was performed for nine AT patients. A comprehensive computational analysis was conducted to evaluate the possible pathogenic effect of ATM identified variants. Genetic screening of ATM gene has identified nine different variants from which six have not been previously reported. In silico analysis has predicted a pathogenic effect of identified mutations. This was corroborated by a structural bioinformatics study based on molecular modeling and docking for novel missense mutations. Our findings suggest a profound impact of identified mutations not only on the ATM protein stability, but also on the ATM-ligand interactions. Our study characterizes the mutational landscape of AT Tunisian patients which will allow to set up genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis for families at risk and expand the spectrum of ATM variants worldwide. Furthermore, understanding the mechanism that underpin variant pathogenicity could provide further insights into disease pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rim Jenni
- Laboratory of Biomedical Genomics and Oncogenetics (LR16IPT05), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1002, Tunisia.
| | - Hedia Klaa
- LR18SP04 and Department of Child and Adolescent Neurology, National Institute Mongi Ben Hmida of Neurology, 1007 Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Oussema Khamessi
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Biomathematics and Biostatistics (BIMS), Institut Pasteur de Tunis (IPT), University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia; Institut de Biotechnologie de Sidi Thabet, Université de la Manouba, Ariana BP-66, Manouba 2010, Tunisia.
| | - Asma Chikhaoui
- Laboratory of Biomedical Genomics and Oncogenetics (LR16IPT05), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1002, Tunisia.
| | - Dorra Najjar
- Laboratory of Biomedical Genomics and Oncogenetics (LR16IPT05), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1002, Tunisia.
| | - Kais Ghedira
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Biomathematics and Biostatistics (BIMS), Institut Pasteur de Tunis (IPT), University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Ichraf Kraoua
- LR18SP04 and Department of Child and Adolescent Neurology, National Institute Mongi Ben Hmida of Neurology, 1007 Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Ilhem Turki
- LR18SP04 and Department of Child and Adolescent Neurology, National Institute Mongi Ben Hmida of Neurology, 1007 Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Houda Yacoub-Youssef
- Laboratory of Biomedical Genomics and Oncogenetics (LR16IPT05), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1002, Tunisia.
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4
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Kaur I, Jadhav GP, Fischer PM, Winkler GS. Discovery of Substituted 5-(2-Hydroxybenzoyl)-2-Pyridone Analogues as Inhibitors of the Human Caf1/CNOT7 Ribonuclease. Molecules 2024; 29:4351. [PMID: 39339346 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29184351] [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: 06/17/2024] [Revised: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The Caf1/CNOT7 nuclease is a catalytic component of the Ccr4-Not deadenylase complex, which is a key regulator of post-transcriptional gene regulation. In addition to providing catalytic activity, Caf1/CNOT7 and its paralogue Caf1/CNOT8 also contribute a structural function by mediating interactions between the large, non-catalytic subunit CNOT1, which forms the backbone of the Ccr4-Not complex and the second nuclease subunit Ccr4 (CNOT6/CNOT6L). To facilitate investigations into the role of Caf1/CNOT7 in gene regulation, we aimed to discover and develop non-nucleoside inhibitors of the enzyme. Here, we disclose that the tri-substituted 2-pyridone compound 5-(5-bromo-2-hydroxy-benzoyl)-1-(4-chloro-2-methoxy-5-methyl-phenyl)-2-oxo-pyridine-3-carbonitrile is an inhibitor of the Caf1/CNOT7 nuclease. Using a fluorescence-based nuclease assay, the activity of 16 structural analogues was determined, which predominantly explored substituents on the 1-phenyl group. While no compound with higher potency was identified among this set of structural analogues, the lowest potency was observed with the analogue lacking substituents on the 1-phenyl group. This indicates that substituents on the 1-phenyl group contribute significantly to binding. To identify possible binding modes of the inhibitors, molecular docking was carried out. This analysis suggested that the binding modes of the five most potent inhibitors may display similar conformations upon binding active site residues. Possible interactions include π-π interactions with His225, hydrogen bonding with the backbone of Phe43 and Van der Waals interactions with His225, Leu209, Leu112 and Leu115.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishwinder Kaur
- School of Pharmacy and Centre for Biomolecular Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Gopal P Jadhav
- School of Pharmacy and Centre for Biomolecular Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Peter M Fischer
- School of Pharmacy and Centre for Biomolecular Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Gerlof Sebastiaan Winkler
- School of Pharmacy and Centre for Biomolecular Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
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5
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Ariza A, Liu Q, Cowieson NP, Ahel I, Filippov DV, Rack JGM. Evolutionary and molecular basis of ADP-ribosylation reversal by zinc-dependent macrodomains. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107770. [PMID: 39270823 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107770] [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: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Dynamic ADP-ribosylation signaling is a crucial pathway that controls fundamental cellular processes, in particular, the response to cellular stresses such as DNA damage, reactive oxygen species, and infection. In some pathogenic microbes, the response to oxidative stress is controlled by a SirTM/zinc-containing macrodomain (Zn-Macro) pair responsible for establishment and removal of the modification, respectively. Targeting this defence mechanism against the host's innate immune response may lead to novel approaches to support the fight against emerging antimicrobial resistance. Earlier studies suggested that Zn-Macros play a key role in the activation of this defence. Therefore, we used phylogenetic, biochemical, and structural approaches to elucidate the functional properties of these enzymes. Using the substrate mimetic asparagine-ADP-ribose as well as the ADP-ribose product, we characterize the catalytic role of the zinc ion in the removal of the ADP-ribosyl modification. Furthermore, we determined structural properties that contribute to substrate selectivity within the different Zn-Macro branches. Together, our data not only give new insights into the Zn-Macro family but also highlight their distinct features that may be exploited for the development of future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Ariza
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK; Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Qiang Liu
- Bio-Organic Synthesis, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands; Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Beijing, China
| | - Nathan P Cowieson
- Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Diamond Light Source, Didcot, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Ivan Ahel
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Dmitri V Filippov
- Bio-Organic Synthesis, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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6
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Mai TT, Lam TP, Pham LHD, Nguyen KH, Nguyen QT, Le MT, Thai KM. Toward Unveiling Putative Binding Sites of Interleukin-33: Insights from Mixed-Solvent Molecular Dynamics Simulations of the Interleukin-1 Family. J Phys Chem B 2024; 128:8362-8375. [PMID: 39178050 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.4c03057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2024]
Abstract
The interleukin (IL)-1 family is a major proinflammatory cytokine family, ranging from the well-studied IL-1s to the most recently discovered IL-33. As a new focus, IL-33 has attracted extensive research for its crucial immunoregulatory roles, leading to the development of notable monoclonal antibodies as clinical candidates. Efforts to develop small molecules disrupting IL-33/ST2 interaction remain highly desired but encounter challenges due to the shallow and featureless interfaces. The information from relative cytokines has shown that traditional binding site identification methods still struggle in mapping cryptic sites, necessitating dynamic approaches to uncover druggable pockets on IL-33. Here, we employed mixed-solvent molecular dynamics (MixMD) simulations with diverse-property probes to map the hotspots of IL-33 and identify potential binding sites. The protocol was first validated using the known binding sites of two IL-1 family members and then applied to the structure of IL-33. Our simulations revealed several binding sites and proposed side-chain rearrangements essential for the binding of a known inhibitor, aligning well with experimental NMR findings. Further microsecond-time scale simulations of this IL-33-protein complex unveiled distinct binding modes with varying occurrences. These results could facilitate future efforts in developing ligands to target challenging flexible pockets of IL-33 and IL-1 family cytokines in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tan Thanh Mai
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Thua-Phong Lam
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala 75124, Sweden
| | - Long-Hung Dinh Pham
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, United Kingdom
| | - Kim-Hung Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Quoc-Thai Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Minh-Tri Le
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
- University of Health Sciences, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
- Research Center for Discovery and Development of Healthcare Products, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Khac-Minh Thai
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
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7
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de Carvalho GA, Tambwe PM, Nascimento LRC, Campos BKP, Chiareli RA, Junior GPN, Menegatti R, Gomez RS, Pinto MCX. In silico evidence of bitopertin's broad interactions within the SLC6 transporter family. J Pharm Pharmacol 2024; 76:1199-1211. [PMID: 38982944 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgae051] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
The Glycine Transporter Type 1 (GlyT1) significantly impacts central nervous system functions, influencing glycinergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission. Bitopertin, the first GlyT1 inhibitor in clinical trials, was developed for schizophrenia treatment but showed limited efficacy. Despite this, bitopertin's repositioning could advance treating various pathologies. This study aims to understand bitopertin's mechanism of action using computational methods, exploring off-target effects, and providing a comprehensive pharmacological profile. Similarity Ensemble Approach (SEA) and SwissTargetPrediction initially predicted targets, followed by molecular modeling on SWISS-MODEL and GalaxyWeb servers. Binding sites were identified using PrankWeb, and molecular docking was performed with DockThor and GOLD software. Molecular dynamics analyses were conducted on the Visual Dynamics platform. Reverse screening on SEA and SwissTargetPrediction identified GlyT1 (SLC6A9), GlyT2 (SLC6A5), PROT (SLC6A7), and DAT (SLC6A3) as potential bitopertin targets. Homology modeling on SwissModel generated high-resolution models, optimized further on GalaxyWeb. PrankWeb identified similar binding sites in GlyT1, GlyT2, PROT, and DAT, indicating potential interaction. Docking studies suggested bitopertin's interaction with GlyT1 and proximity to GlyT2 and PROT. Molecular dynamics confirmed docking results, highlighting bitopertin's target stability beyond GlyT1. The study concludes that bitopertin potentially interacts with multiple SLC6 family targets, indicating a broader pharmacological property.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Almeida de Carvalho
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, CEP 74690-900, Goiânia-GO, Brazil
| | - Paul Magogo Tambwe
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, CEP 74690-900, Goiânia-GO, Brazil
| | - Lucas Rodrigues Couto Nascimento
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, CEP 74690-900, Goiânia-GO, Brazil
| | - Bruna Kelly Pedrosa Campos
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, CEP 74690-900, Goiânia-GO, Brazil
| | - Raphaela Almeida Chiareli
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, CEP 74690-900, Goiânia-GO, Brazil
| | - Guilhermino Pereira Nunes Junior
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, CEP 74690-900, Goiânia-GO, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Menegatti
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Rua 240, Setor Leste Universitário, 74605170 - Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Renato Santiago Gomez
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Alfredo Balena, 190, 30130-100, Belo Horizonte-MG, Brazil
| | - Mauro Cunha Xavier Pinto
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, CEP 74690-900, Goiânia-GO, Brazil
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8
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Estevam GO, Linossi EM, Rao J, Macdonald CB, Ravikumar A, Chrispens KM, Capra JA, Coyote-Maestas W, Pimentel H, Collisson EA, Jura N, Fraser JS. Mapping kinase domain resistance mechanisms for the MET receptor tyrosine kinase via deep mutational scanning. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.16.603579. [PMID: 39071407 PMCID: PMC11275805 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.16.603579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Mutations in the kinase and juxtamembrane domains of the MET Receptor Tyrosine Kinase are responsible for oncogenesis in various cancers and can drive resistance to MET-directed treatments. Determining the most effective inhibitor for each mutational profile is a major challenge for MET-driven cancer treatment in precision medicine. Here, we used a deep mutational scan (DMS) of ~5,764 MET kinase domain variants to profile the growth of each mutation against a panel of 11 inhibitors that are reported to target the MET kinase domain. We identified common resistance sites across type I, type II, and type I ½ inhibitors, unveiled unique resistance and sensitizing mutations for each inhibitor, and validated non-cross-resistant sensitivities for type I and type II inhibitor pairs. We augment a protein language model with biophysical and chemical features to improve the predictive performance for inhibitor-treated datasets. Together, our study demonstrates a pooled experimental pipeline for identifying resistance mutations, provides a reference dictionary for mutations that are sensitized to specific therapies, and offers insights for future drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella O. Estevam
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Tetrad Graduate Program, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Edmond M. Linossi
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jingyou Rao
- Department of Computer Science, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Christian B. Macdonald
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Ashraya Ravikumar
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Karson M. Chrispens
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Biophysics Graduate Program, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - John A. Capra
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute and Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Willow Coyote-Maestas
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Quantitative Biosciences Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Harold Pimentel
- Department of Computer Science, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Computational Medicine and Human Genetics, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Eric A. Collisson
- Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington, United States
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Natalia Jura
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Quantitative Biosciences Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - James S. Fraser
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Quantitative Biosciences Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, United States
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9
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Latosińska M, Latosińska JN. Serine/Threonine Protein Kinases as Attractive Targets for Anti-Cancer Drugs-An Innovative Approach to Ligand Tuning Using Combined Quantum Chemical Calculations, Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamic Simulations, and Network-like Similarity Graphs. Molecules 2024; 29:3199. [PMID: 38999151 PMCID: PMC11243552 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29133199] [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: 06/01/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Serine/threonine protein kinases (CK2, PIM-1, RIO1) are constitutively active, highly conserved, pleiotropic, and multifunctional kinases, which control several signaling pathways and regulate many cellular functions, such as cell activity, survival, proliferation, and apoptosis. Over the past decades, they have gained increasing attention as potential therapeutic targets, ranging from various cancers and neurological, inflammation, and autoimmune disorders to viral diseases, including COVID-19. Despite the accumulation of a vast amount of experimental data, there is still no "recipe" that would facilitate the search for new effective kinase inhibitors. The aim of our study was to develop an effective screening method that would be useful for this purpose. A combination of Density Functional Theory calculations and molecular docking, supplemented with newly developed quantitative methods for the comparison of the binding modes, provided deep insight into the set of desirable properties responsible for their inhibition. The mathematical metrics helped assess the distance between the binding modes, while heatmaps revealed the locations in the ligand that should be modified according to binding site requirements. The Structure-Binding Affinity Index and Structural-Binding Affinity Landscape proposed in this paper helped to measure the extent to which binding affinity is gained or lost in response to a relatively small change in the ligand's structure. The combination of the physico-chemical profile with the aforementioned factors enabled the identification of both "dead" and "promising" search directions. Tests carried out on experimental data have validated and demonstrated the high efficiency of the proposed innovative approach. Our method for quantifying differences between the ligands and their binding capabilities holds promise for guiding future research on new anti-cancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Latosińska
- Faculty of Physics, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 2, 61-814 Poznań, Poland
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10
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Latosińska M, Latosińska JN. The Chameleon Strategy-A Recipe for Effective Ligand Screening for Viral Targets Based on Four Novel Structure-Binding Strength Indices. Viruses 2024; 16:1073. [PMID: 39066235 PMCID: PMC11281727 DOI: 10.3390/v16071073] [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: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The RNA viruses SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV encode the non-structural Nsp16 (2'-O-methyltransferase) that catalyzes the transfer of a methyl group from S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) to the first ribonucleotide in mRNA. Recently, it has been found that breaking the bond between Nsp16 and SAM substrate results in the cessation of mRNA virus replication. To date, only a limited number of such inhibitors have been identified, which can be attributed to a lack of an effective "recipe". The aim of our study was to propose and verify a rapid and effective screening protocol dedicated to such purposes. We proposed four new indices describing structure-binding strength (structure-binding affinity, structure-hydrogen bonding, structure-steric and structure-protein-ligand indices) were then applied and shown to be extremely helpful in determining the degree of increase or decrease in binding affinity in response to a relatively small change in the ligand structure. After initial pre-selection, based on similarity to SAM, we limited the study to 967 compounds, so-called molecular chameleons. They were then docked in the Nsp16 protein pocket, and 10 candidate ligands were selected using the novel structure-binding affinity index. Subsequently the selected 10 candidate ligands and 8 known inhibitors and were docked to Nsp16 pockets from SARS-CoV-2, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV. Based on the four new indices, the best ligands were selected and a new one was designed by tuning them. Finally, ADMET profiling and molecular dynamics simulations were performed for the best ligands. The new structure-binding strength indices can be successfully applied not only to screen and tune ligands, but also to determine the effectiveness of the ligand in response to changes in the target viral entity, which is particularly useful for assessing drug effectiveness in the case of alterations in viral proteins. The developed approach, the so-called chameleon strategy, has the capacity to introduce a novel universal paradigm to the field of drugs design, including RNA antivirals.
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11
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Diedrich K, Ehrt C, Graef J, Poppinga M, Ritter N, Rarey M. User-centric design of a 3D search interface for protein-ligand complexes. J Comput Aided Mol Des 2024; 38:23. [PMID: 38814371 PMCID: PMC11139749 DOI: 10.1007/s10822-024-00563-3] [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: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
In this work, we present the frontend of GeoMine and showcase its application, focusing on the new features of its latest version. GeoMine is a search engine for ligand-bound and predicted empty binding sites in the Protein Data Bank. In addition to its basic text-based search functionalities, GeoMine offers a geometric query type for searching binding sites with a specific relative spatial arrangement of chemical features such as heavy atoms and intermolecular interactions. In contrast to a text search that requires simple and easy-to-formulate user input, a 3D input is more complex, and its specification can be challenging for users. GeoMine's new version aims to address this issue from the graphical user interface perspective by introducing an additional visualization concept and a new query template type. In its latest version, GeoMine extends its query-building capabilities primarily through input formulation in 2D. The 2D editor is fully synchronized with GeoMine's 3D editor and provides the same functionality. It enables template-free query generation and template-based query selection directly in 2D pose diagrams. In addition, the query generation with the 3D editor now supports predicted empty binding sites for AlphaFold structures as query templates. GeoMine is freely accessible on the ProteinsPlus web server ( https://proteins.plus ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Konrad Diedrich
- Universität Hamburg, ZBH - Center for Bioinformatics, Albert-Einstein-Ring 8-10, 22761, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christiane Ehrt
- Universität Hamburg, ZBH - Center for Bioinformatics, Albert-Einstein-Ring 8-10, 22761, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Joel Graef
- Universität Hamburg, ZBH - Center for Bioinformatics, Albert-Einstein-Ring 8-10, 22761, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Poppinga
- Universität Hamburg, Department of Informatics, Vogt-Kölln-Straße 30, 22527, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Norbert Ritter
- Universität Hamburg, Department of Informatics, Vogt-Kölln-Straße 30, 22527, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Rarey
- Universität Hamburg, ZBH - Center for Bioinformatics, Albert-Einstein-Ring 8-10, 22761, Hamburg, Germany.
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12
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Weber P, Bojarová P, Brouzdová J, Křen V, Kulik N, Stütz AE, Thonhofer M, Wrodnigg TM. Diaminocyclopentane - l-Lysine Adducts: Potent and selective inhibitors of human O-GlcNAcase. Bioorg Chem 2024; 148:107452. [PMID: 38763001 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107452] [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: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
A new class of compounds, namely highly substituted diaminocyclopentane-l-lysine adducts, have been discovered as potent inhibitors of O-GlcNAcase, an enzyme crucial for protein de-O-glycosylation. These inhibitors exhibit exceptional selectivity and reversibility and are the first example of human O-GlcNAcase inhibitors that are structurally related to the transition state of the rate-limiting step with the "aglycon" still in bond-length proximity. The ease of their preparation, remarkable biological activities, stability, and non-toxicity make them promising candidates for the development of anti-tau-phosphorylation agents holding significant potential for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Weber
- Glycogroup, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Biobased Systems, Graz University of Technology, Stremayrgasse 9, A-8010 Graz, Austria.
| | - Pavla Bojarová
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, CZ 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Jitka Brouzdová
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, CZ 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimír Křen
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, CZ 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Natalia Kulik
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, CZ 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Arnold E Stütz
- Glycogroup, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Biobased Systems, Graz University of Technology, Stremayrgasse 9, A-8010 Graz, Austria.
| | - Martin Thonhofer
- Glycogroup, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Biobased Systems, Graz University of Technology, Stremayrgasse 9, A-8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Tanja M Wrodnigg
- Glycogroup, Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Biobased Systems, Graz University of Technology, Stremayrgasse 9, A-8010 Graz, Austria
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13
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Babijczuk K, Berdzik N, Nowak D, Warżajtis B, Rychlewska U, Starzyk J, Mrówczyńska L, Jasiewicz B. Novel C3-Methylene-Bridged Indole Derivatives with and without Substituents at N1: The Influence of Substituents on Their Hemolytic, Cytoprotective, and Antimicrobial Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5364. [PMID: 38791402 PMCID: PMC11121452 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105364] [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: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Alkaloids are natural compounds useful as scaffolds for discovering new bioactive molecules. This study utilized alkaloid gramine to synthesize two groups of C3-substituted indole derivatives, which were either functionalized at N1 or not. The compounds were characterized by spectroscopic methods. The protective effects of the new compounds against in vitro oxidative hemolysis induced by standard oxidant 2,2'-azobis(2-amidinopropane dihydro chloride (AAPH) on human erythrocytes as a cell model were investigated. Additionally, the compounds were screened for antimicrobial activity. The results indicated that most of the indole derivatives devoid of the N1 substitution exhibited strong cytoprotective properties. The docking studies supported the affinities of selected indole-based ligands as potential antioxidants. Furthermore, the derivatives obtained exhibited potent fungicidal properties. The structures of the eight derivatives possessing indole moiety bridged to the imidazole-, benzimidazole-, thiazole-, benzothiazole-, and 5-methylbenzothiazoline-2-thiones were determined by X-ray diffraction. The C=S bond lengths in the thioamide fragment pointed to the involvement of zwitterionic structures of varying contribution. The predominance of zwitterionic mesomers may explain the lack of cytoprotective properties, while steric effects, which limit multiple the hydrogen-bond acceptor properties of a thione sulfur, seem to be responsible for the high hemolytic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Babijczuk
- Department of Bioactive Products, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland; (K.B.); (N.B.)
| | - Natalia Berdzik
- Department of Bioactive Products, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland; (K.B.); (N.B.)
| | - Damian Nowak
- Department of Quantum Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Beata Warżajtis
- Department of Crystallography, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland; (B.W.); (U.R.)
| | - Urszula Rychlewska
- Department of Crystallography, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland; (B.W.); (U.R.)
| | - Justyna Starzyk
- Department of Soil Science and Microbiology, Faculty of Agronomy, Horticulture, and Bioengineering, University of Life Science, Szydłowska 50, 60-656 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Lucyna Mrówczyńska
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 6, 61-614 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Beata Jasiewicz
- Department of Bioactive Products, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland; (K.B.); (N.B.)
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14
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Yılmaz M, Kamaşak T, Teralı K, Çebi AH, Türkyılmaz A. The first Turkish family with a novel biallelic missense variant of the ALKBH8 gene: A study on the clinical and variant spectrum of ALKBH8-related intellectual developmental disorders. Am J Med Genet A 2024; 194:e63535. [PMID: 38189198 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63535] [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: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
ABH8, the protein encoded by the ALKBH8 gene, modifies tRNAs by methylating their anticodon wobble uridine residues. The variations in the ALKBH8 gene are associated with the "intellectual developmental disorder, autosomal recessive type 71" (MIM: 618504) phenotype in the OMIM database. This phenotype is characterized by global developmental delay, facial dysmorphic features, and psychiatric problems. To date, 12 patients from five distinct families carrying variants of the ALKBH8 gene have been reported in the literature. In the present study, we report the first Turkish family harboring a novel homozygous missense variant, NM_138775.3:c.1874G > C (p.Arg625Pro), in the last exon of the ALKBH8 gene. Two affected siblings in this family showed signs of global developmental delay and intellectual disability. Based on the dysmorphological assessment of the cases, fifth finger clinodactyly and fetal fingertip pads were prominent, in addition to the dysmorphic findings similar to those reported in previous studies. Minor dysmorphic limb anomalies in relation to this phenotype have not yet been previously reported in the literature. Our computational studies revealed the potential deleterious effects of the Arg-to-Pro substitution on the structure and stability of the ABH8 methyltransferase domain. In the present report, the first Turkish family with an ultrarare disease associated with the ALKBH8 gene was reported, and a novel deleterious variant in the ALKBH8 gene and additional clinical features that were not reported with this condition have been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Yılmaz
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Tülay Kamaşak
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Kerem Teralı
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Cyprus International University, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Alper Han Çebi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Ayberk Türkyılmaz
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
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15
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Latosińska JN, Latosińska M, Seliger J, Žagar V, Apih T. Butterfly Effect in Cytarabine: Combined NMR-NQR Experiment, Solid-State Computational Modeling, Quantitative Structure-Property Relationships and Molecular Docking Study. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:445. [PMID: 38675407 PMCID: PMC11053780 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040445] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cytarabine (Ara-C) is a synthetic isomer of cytidine that differs from cytidine and deoxycytidine only in the sugar. The use of arabinose instead of deoxyribose hinders the formation of phosphodiester linkages between pentoses, preventing the DNA chain from elongation and interrupting the DNA synthesis. The minor structural alteration (the inversion of hydroxyl at the 2' positions of the sugar) leads to change of the biological activity from anti-depressant and DNA/RNA block builder to powerful anti-cancer. Our study aimed to determine the molecular nature of this phenomenon. Three 1H-14N NMR-NQR experimental techniques, followed by solid-state computational modelling (Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules, Reduced Density Gradient and 3D Hirshfeld surfaces), Quantitative Structure-Property Relationships, Spackman's Hirshfeld surfaces and Molecular Docking were used. Multifaceted analysis-combining experiments, computational modeling and molecular docking-provides deep insight into three-dimensional packing at the atomic and molecular levels, but is challenging. A spectrum with nine lines indicating the existence of three chemically inequivalent nitrogen sites in the Ara-C molecule was recorded, and the lines were assigned to them. The influence of the structural alteration on the NQR parameters was modeled in the solid (GGA/RPBE). For the comprehensive description of the nature of these interactions several factors were considered, including relative reactivity and the involvement of heavy atoms in various non-covalent interactions. The binding modes in the solid state and complex with dCK were investigated using the novel approaches: radial plots, heatmaps and root-mean-square deviation of the binding mode. We identified the intramolecular OH···O hydrogen bond as the key factor responsible for forcing the glycone conformation and strengthening NH···O bonds with Gln97, Asp133 and Ara128, and stacking with Phe137. The titular butterfly effect is associated with both the inversion and the presence of this intramolecular hydrogen bond. Our study elucidates the differences in the binding modes of Ara-C and cytidine, which should guide the design of more potent anti-cancer and anti-viral analogues.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Magdalena Latosińska
- Faculty of Physics, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 2, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Janez Seliger
- “Jožef Stefan” Institute, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, University of Ljubljana, Jadranska 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Veselko Žagar
- “Jožef Stefan” Institute, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tomaž Apih
- “Jožef Stefan” Institute, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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16
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Johannsen S, Gierse RM, Krüger A, Edwards RL, Nanna V, Fontana A, Zhu D, Masini T, de Carvalho LP, Poizat M, Kieftenbelt B, Hodge DM, Alvarez S, Bunt D, Lacour A, Shams A, Meissner KA, de Souza EE, Dröge M, van Vliet B, den Hartog J, Hutter MC, Held J, Odom John AR, Wrenger C, Hirsch AKH. High Target Homology Does Not Guarantee Inhibition: Aminothiazoles Emerge as Inhibitors of Plasmodium falciparum. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:1000-1022. [PMID: 38367280 PMCID: PMC10928712 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we identified three novel compound classes with potent activity against Plasmodium falciparum, the most dangerous human malarial parasite. Resistance of this pathogen to known drugs is increasing, and compounds with different modes of action are urgently needed. One promising drug target is the enzyme 1-deoxy-d-xylulose-5-phosphate synthase (DXPS) of the methylerythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway for which we have previously identified three active compound classes against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The close structural similarities of the active sites of the DXPS enzymes of P. falciparum and M. tuberculosis prompted investigation of their antiparasitic action, all classes display good cell-based activity. Through structure-activity relationship studies, we increased their antimalarial potency and two classes also show good metabolic stability and low toxicity against human liver cells. The most active compound 1 inhibits the growth of blood-stage P. falciparum with an IC50 of 600 nM. The results from three different methods for target validation of compound 1 suggest no engagement of DXPS. All inhibitor classes are active against chloroquine-resistant strains, confirming a new mode of action that has to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Johannsen
- Helmholtz
Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) − Helmholtz
Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
- Department
of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
| | - Robin M. Gierse
- Helmholtz
Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) − Helmholtz
Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
- Department
of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
- Stratingh
Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
| | - Arne Krüger
- Unit
for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 1374, São Paulo-SP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Rachel L. Edwards
- Department
of Pediatrics, Washington University School
of Medicine, Saint
Louis, Missouri 63110, United States
| | - Vittoria Nanna
- Helmholtz
Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) − Helmholtz
Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
| | - Anna Fontana
- Helmholtz
Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) − Helmholtz
Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
| | - Di Zhu
- Helmholtz
Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) − Helmholtz
Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
- Stratingh
Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
| | - Tiziana Masini
- Stratingh
Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
| | | | - Mael Poizat
- Symeres, Kadijk 3, Groningen 9747
AT, The Netherlands
| | | | - Dana M. Hodge
- Department
of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital
of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Sophie Alvarez
- Proteomics
& Metabolomics Facility, Center for Biotechnology, Department
of Agronomy and Horticulture, University
of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska 68588, United States
| | - Daan Bunt
- Stratingh
Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
| | - Antoine Lacour
- Helmholtz
Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) − Helmholtz
Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
- Department
of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
| | - Atanaz Shams
- Helmholtz
Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) − Helmholtz
Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
- Department
of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
| | - Kamila Anna Meissner
- Unit
for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 1374, São Paulo-SP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Edmarcia Elisa de Souza
- Unit
for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 1374, São Paulo-SP 05508-000, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Michael C. Hutter
- Center
for Bioinformatics, Saarland University, Campus Building E2.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
| | - Jana Held
- Institute
of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, Tübingen 72074, Germany
- German
Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Tübingen, Tübingen 72074, Germany
- Centre
de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), B.P. 242 Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Audrey R. Odom John
- Department
of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital
of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Carsten Wrenger
- Unit
for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 1374, São Paulo-SP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Anna K. H. Hirsch
- Helmholtz
Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) − Helmholtz
Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
- Department
of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Campus Building E8.1, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany
- Stratingh
Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
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17
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Nowak D, Huczyński A, Bachorz RA, Hoffmann M. Machine Learning Application for Medicinal Chemistry: Colchicine Case, New Structures, and Anticancer Activity Prediction. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:173. [PMID: 38399388 PMCID: PMC10892630 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020173] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In the contemporary era, the exploration of machine learning (ML) has gained widespread attention and is being leveraged to augment traditional methodologies in quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) investigations. The principal objective of this research was to assess the anticancer potential of colchicine-based compounds across five distinct cell lines. This research endeavor ultimately sought to construct ML models proficient in forecasting anticancer activity as quantified by the IC50 value, while concurrently generating innovative colchicine-derived compounds. The resistance index (RI) is computed to evaluate the drug resistance exhibited by LoVo/DX cells relative to LoVo cancer cell lines. Meanwhile, the selectivity index (SI) is computed to determine the potential of a compound to demonstrate superior efficacy against tumor cells compared to its toxicity against normal cells, such as BALB/3T3. We introduce a novel ML system adept at recommending novel chemical structures predicated on known anticancer activity. Our investigation entailed the assessment of inhibitory capabilities across five cell lines, employing predictive models utilizing various algorithms, including random forest, decision tree, support vector machines, k-nearest neighbors, and multiple linear regression. The most proficient model, as determined by quality metrics, was employed to predict the anticancer activity of novel colchicine-based compounds. This methodological approach yielded the establishment of a library encompassing new colchicine-based compounds, each assigned an IC50 value. Additionally, this study resulted in the development of a validated predictive model, capable of reasonably estimating IC50 values based on molecular structure input.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian Nowak
- Department of Quantum Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 8, 61-614 Poznan, Poland
| | - Adam Huczyński
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 8, 61-614 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Rafał Adam Bachorz
- Institute of Medical Biology of Polish Academy of Sciences, Lodowa 106, 93-232 Lodz, Poland;
- Institute of Computing Science, Faculty of Computing, Poznań University of Technology, Piotrowo 2, 60-965 Poznań, Poland
| | - Marcin Hoffmann
- Department of Quantum Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 8, 61-614 Poznan, Poland
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18
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Latosińska M, Latosińska JN. Favipiravir Analogues as Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase, Combined Quantum Chemical Modeling, Quantitative Structure-Property Relationship, and Molecular Docking Study. Molecules 2024; 29:441. [PMID: 38257352 PMCID: PMC10818557 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29020441] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Our study was motivated by the urgent need to develop or improve antivirals for effective therapy targeting RNA viruses. We hypothesized that analogues of favipiravir (FVP), an inhibitor of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), could provide more effective nucleic acid recognition and binding processes while reducing side effects such as cardiotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, teratogenicity, and embryotoxicity. We proposed a set of FVP analogues together with their forms of triphosphate as new SARS-CoV-2 RdRp inhibitors. The main aim of our study was to investigate changes in the mechanism and binding capacity resulting from these modifications. Using three different approaches, QTAIM, QSPR, and MD, the differences in the reactivity, toxicity, binding efficiency, and ability to be incorporated by RdRp were assessed. Two new quantum chemical reactivity descriptors, the relative electro-donating and electro-accepting power, were defined and successfully applied. Moreover, a new quantitative method for comparing binding modes was developed based on mathematical metrics and an atypical radar plot. These methods provide deep insight into the set of desirable properties responsible for inhibiting RdRp, allowing ligands to be conveniently screened. The proposed modification of the FVP structure seems to improve its binding ability and enhance the productive mode of binding. In particular, two of the FVP analogues (the trifluoro- and cyano-) bind very strongly to the RNA template, RNA primer, cofactors, and RdRp, and thus may constitute a very good alternative to FVP.
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19
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Khalymbadzha IA, Fatykhov RF, Butorin II, Sharapov AD, Potapova AP, Muthipeedika NJ, Zyryanov GV, Melekhin VV, Tokhtueva MD, Deev SL, Kukhanova MK, Mochulskaya NN, Tsurkan MV. Bioinspired Pyrano[2,3- f]chromen-8-ones: Ring C-Opened Analogues of Calanolide A: Synthesis and Anti-HIV-1 Evaluation. Biomimetics (Basel) 2024; 9:44. [PMID: 38248618 PMCID: PMC10813249 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics9010044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
We have designed and synthesized a series of bioinspired pyrano[2,3-f]coumarin-based Calanolide A analogs with anti-HIV activity. The design of these new calanolide analogs involved incorporating nitrogen heterocycles or aromatic groups in lieu of ring C, effectively mimicking and preserving their bioactive properties. Three directions for the synthesis were explored: reaction of 5-hydroxy-2,2-dimethyl-10-propyl-2H,8H-pyrano[2,3-f]chromen-8-one with (i) 1,2,4-triazines, (ii) sulfonylation followed by Suzuki cross-coupling with (het)aryl boronic acids, and (iii) aminomethylation by Mannich reaction. Antiviral assay of the synthesized compounds showed that compound 4 has moderate activity against HIV-1 on enzymes and poor activity on the cell model. A molecular docking study demonstrates a good correlation between in silico and in vitro HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT) activity of the compounds when docked to the nonnucleoside RT inhibitor binding site, and alternative binding modes of the considered analogs of Calanolide A were established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor A. Khalymbadzha
- Department of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Ural Federal University, 620002 Yekaterinburg, Russia; (R.F.F.); (I.I.B.); (A.D.S.); (A.P.P.); (N.J.M.); (G.V.Z.); (V.V.M.); (M.D.T.); (S.L.D.); (N.N.M.)
| | - Ramil F. Fatykhov
- Department of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Ural Federal University, 620002 Yekaterinburg, Russia; (R.F.F.); (I.I.B.); (A.D.S.); (A.P.P.); (N.J.M.); (G.V.Z.); (V.V.M.); (M.D.T.); (S.L.D.); (N.N.M.)
| | - Ilya I. Butorin
- Department of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Ural Federal University, 620002 Yekaterinburg, Russia; (R.F.F.); (I.I.B.); (A.D.S.); (A.P.P.); (N.J.M.); (G.V.Z.); (V.V.M.); (M.D.T.); (S.L.D.); (N.N.M.)
| | - Ainur D. Sharapov
- Department of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Ural Federal University, 620002 Yekaterinburg, Russia; (R.F.F.); (I.I.B.); (A.D.S.); (A.P.P.); (N.J.M.); (G.V.Z.); (V.V.M.); (M.D.T.); (S.L.D.); (N.N.M.)
| | - Anastasia P. Potapova
- Department of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Ural Federal University, 620002 Yekaterinburg, Russia; (R.F.F.); (I.I.B.); (A.D.S.); (A.P.P.); (N.J.M.); (G.V.Z.); (V.V.M.); (M.D.T.); (S.L.D.); (N.N.M.)
| | - Nibin Joy Muthipeedika
- Department of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Ural Federal University, 620002 Yekaterinburg, Russia; (R.F.F.); (I.I.B.); (A.D.S.); (A.P.P.); (N.J.M.); (G.V.Z.); (V.V.M.); (M.D.T.); (S.L.D.); (N.N.M.)
| | - Grigory V. Zyryanov
- Department of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Ural Federal University, 620002 Yekaterinburg, Russia; (R.F.F.); (I.I.B.); (A.D.S.); (A.P.P.); (N.J.M.); (G.V.Z.); (V.V.M.); (M.D.T.); (S.L.D.); (N.N.M.)
| | - Vsevolod V. Melekhin
- Department of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Ural Federal University, 620002 Yekaterinburg, Russia; (R.F.F.); (I.I.B.); (A.D.S.); (A.P.P.); (N.J.M.); (G.V.Z.); (V.V.M.); (M.D.T.); (S.L.D.); (N.N.M.)
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Ural State Medical University, 620028 Yekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Maria D. Tokhtueva
- Department of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Ural Federal University, 620002 Yekaterinburg, Russia; (R.F.F.); (I.I.B.); (A.D.S.); (A.P.P.); (N.J.M.); (G.V.Z.); (V.V.M.); (M.D.T.); (S.L.D.); (N.N.M.)
| | - Sergey L. Deev
- Department of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Ural Federal University, 620002 Yekaterinburg, Russia; (R.F.F.); (I.I.B.); (A.D.S.); (A.P.P.); (N.J.M.); (G.V.Z.); (V.V.M.); (M.D.T.); (S.L.D.); (N.N.M.)
| | | | - Nataliya N. Mochulskaya
- Department of Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, Ural Federal University, 620002 Yekaterinburg, Russia; (R.F.F.); (I.I.B.); (A.D.S.); (A.P.P.); (N.J.M.); (G.V.Z.); (V.V.M.); (M.D.T.); (S.L.D.); (N.N.M.)
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Krupinskaitė A, Stanislauskienė R, Serapinas P, Rutkienė R, Gasparavičiūtė R, Meškys R, Stankevičiūtė J. α-L-Fucosidases from an Alpaca Faeces Metagenome: Characterisation of Hydrolytic and Transfucosylation Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:809. [PMID: 38255883 PMCID: PMC10815079 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In various life forms, fucose-containing glycans play vital roles in immune recognition, developmental processes, plant immunity, and host-microbe interactions. Together with glucose, galactose, N-acetylglucosamine, and sialic acid, fucose is a significant component of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs). Fucosylated HMOs benefit infants by acting as prebiotics, preventing pathogen attachment, and potentially protecting against infections, including HIV. Although the need for fucosylated derivatives is clear, their availability is limited. Therefore, synthesis methods for various fucosylated oligosaccharides are explored, employing enzymatic approaches and α-L-fucosidases. This work aimed to characterise α-L-fucosidases identified in an alpaca faeces metagenome. Based on bioinformatic analyses, they were confirmed as members of the GH29A subfamily. The recombinant α-L-fucosidases were expressed in Escherichia coli and showed hydrolytic activity towards p-nitrophenyl-α-L-fucopyranoside and 2'-fucosyllactose. Furthermore, the enzymes' biochemical properties and kinetic characteristics were also determined. All four α-L-fucosidases could catalyse transfucosylation using a broad diversity of fucosyl acceptor substrates, including lactose, maltotriose, L-serine, and L-threonine. The results contribute insights into the potential use of α-L-fucosidases for synthesising fucosylated amino acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnė Krupinskaitė
- Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Sauletekio av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; (R.S.); (P.S.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (R.M.)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jonita Stankevičiūtė
- Institute of Biochemistry, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Sauletekio av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania; (R.S.); (P.S.); (R.R.); (R.G.); (R.M.)
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Berdzik N, Koenig H, Mrówczyńska L, Nowak D, Jasiewicz B, Pospieszny T. Synthesis and Hemolytic Activity of Bile Acid-Indole Bioconjugates Linked by Triazole. J Org Chem 2023; 88:16719-16734. [PMID: 38059841 PMCID: PMC10729025 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.3c00815] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
New formyl and acetyl derivatives of bile acid propargyl esters and their bioconjugates with modified gramine molecules have been obtained using the click chemistry method to study their hemolytic potency. The structures of all compounds were confirmed by spectral (1H- and 13C NMR and FT-IR) analysis and mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) as well as PM5 semiempirical methods. According to the results, the structural modification of formyl and acetyl bile acid derivatives, leading to the formation of new propargyl esters and indole bioconjugates, reduces their hemolytic activity. According to molecular docking studies, the tested ligands are highly likely to exhibit a similar affinity, as native ligands, for the active sites of specific protein domains (PDB IDs: 2Q85 and 5V5Z). The obtained results may be helpful for the development of selective bile acid bioconjugates as effective antibacterial, antifungal, or antioxidant agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Berdzik
- Department of Bioactive Products, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Hanna Koenig
- Department of Bioactive Products, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Lucyna Mrówczyńska
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 6, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Damian Nowak
- Department of Quantum Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Beata Jasiewicz
- Department of Bioactive Products, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Tomasz Pospieszny
- Department of Bioactive Products, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
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