1
|
El-Sayed SE, Abdelaziz NA, El-Housseiny GS, Aboshanab KM. Nanosponge hydrogel of octadecyl 3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) propanoate of Alcaligenes faecalis. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:100. [PMID: 38217256 PMCID: PMC10786974 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12819-3] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Octadecyl 3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) propanoate (ODHP) was extracted in a previous study from the culture broth of soil isolate Alcaligenes faecalis MT332429 and showed a promising antimycotic activity. This study was aimed to formulate ODHP loaded β-cyclodextrins (CD) nanosponge (NS) hydrogel (HG) to control skin fungal ailments since nanosponges augment the retention of tested agents in the skin. Box-Behnken design was used to produce the optimized NS formulation, where entrapment efficiency percent (EE%), polydispersity index (PDI), and particle size (PS) were assigned as dependent parameters, while the independent process parameters were polyvinyl alcohol % (w/v %), polymer-linker ratio, homogenization time, and speed. The carbopol 940 hydrogel was then created by incorporating the nanosponges. The hydrogel fit Higuchi's kinetic release model the best, according to in vitro drug release. Stability and photodegradation studies revealed that the NS-HG remained stable under tested conditions. The formulation also showed higher in vitro antifungal activity against Candida albicans compared to the control fluconazole. In vivo study showed that ODHP-NS-HG increased survival rates, wound contraction, and healing of wound gap and inhibited the inflammation process compared to the other control groups. The histopathological examinations and Masson's trichrome staining showed improved healing and higher records of collagen deposition. Moreover, the permeability of ODHP-NS-HG was higher through rats' skin by 1.5-folds compared to the control isoconazole 1%. Therefore, based on these results, NS-HG formulation is a potential carrier for enhanced and improved topical delivery of ODHP. Our study is a pioneering research on the development of a formulation for ODHP produced naturally from soil bacteria. KEY POINTS: • Octadecyl 3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) propanoate was successfully formulated as a nanosponge hydrogel and statistically optimized. • The new formula exhibited in vitro good stability, drug release, and higher antifungal activity against C. albicans as compared to the fluconazole. • Ex vivo showed enhanced skin permeability, and in vivo analysis showed high antifungal activity as evidenced by measurement of various biochemical parameters and histopathological examination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sayed E El-Sayed
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, Sixth of October City, Giza, 12451, Egypt
| | - Neveen A Abdelaziz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, Sixth of October City, Giza, 12451, Egypt
| | - Ghadir S El-Housseiny
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Organization of African Unity St, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, 11566, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Khaled M Aboshanab
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Organization of African Unity St, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, 11566, Cairo, Egypt.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Song L, Liu H, Li M, Yang Y, Dong H, Li J, Shao J, Zhi L, Sun H, Li Z, Sui H, Zhang Y, Wu C, Yin Y. Ribosomal Incorporation of Lithocholic Acid into Peptides for the De Novo Discovery Of Peptide-Lithocholic Acid Hybrid Macrocyclic Peptides. ACS Chem Biol 2024; 19:1440-1446. [PMID: 38901034 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.4c00298] [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: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Peptide-bile acid hybrids offer promising drug candidates due to enhanced pharmacological properties, such as improved protease resistance and oral bioavailability. However, it remains unknown whether bile acids can be incorporated into peptide chains by the ribosome to produce a peptide-bile acid hybrid macrocyclic peptide library for target-based de novo screening. In this study, we achieved the ribosomal incorporation of lithocholic acid (LCA)-d-tyrosine into peptide chains. This led to the construction of a peptide-LCA hybrid macrocyclic peptide library, which enabled the identification of peptides TP-2C-4L3 (targeting Trop2) and EP-2C-4L5 (targeting EphA2) with strong binding affinities. Notably, LCA was found to directly participate in binding to EphA2 and confer on the peptides improved stability and resistance to proteases. Cell staining experiments confirmed the high specificity of the peptides for targeting Trop2 and EphA2. This study highlights the benefits of LCA in peptides and paves the way for de novo discovery of stable peptide-LCA hybrid drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Song
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Hongtan Liu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P.R. China
| | - Maolin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Yawen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Huilei Dong
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P.R. China
| | - Jinjing Li
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P.R. China
| | - Jiaqi Shao
- College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Lixu Zhi
- College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Hao Sun
- College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zhifeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Haiyan Sui
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Youming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Chuanliu Wu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P.R. China
| | - Yizhen Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
- Shandong Research Institute of Industrial Technology, Jinan 250101, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Merlino F, Marzano S, Zizza P, D’Aria F, Grasso N, Carachino A, Iachettini S, Biroccio A, Fonzo SD, Grieco P, Randazzo A, Amato J, Pagano B. Unlocking the potential of protein-derived peptides to target G-quadruplex DNA: from recognition to anticancer activity. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:6748-6762. [PMID: 38828773 PMCID: PMC11229374 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae471] [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: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Noncanonical nucleic acid structures, particularly G-quadruplexes, have garnered significant attention as potential therapeutic targets in cancer treatment. Here, the recognition of G-quadruplex DNA by peptides derived from the Rap1 protein is explored, with the aim of developing novel peptide-based G-quadruplex ligands with enhanced selectivity and anticancer activity. Biophysical techniques were employed to assess the interaction of a peptide derived from the G-quadruplex-binding domain of the protein with various biologically relevant G-quadruplex structures. Through alanine scanning mutagenesis, key amino acids crucial for G-quadruplex recognition were identified, leading to the discovery of two peptides with improved G-quadruplex-binding properties. However, despite their in vitro efficacy, these peptides showed limited cell penetration and anticancer activity. To overcome this challenge, cell-penetrating peptide (CPP)-conjugated derivatives were designed, some of which exhibited significant cytotoxic effects on cancer cells. Interestingly, selected CPP-conjugated peptides exerted potent anticancer activity across various tumour types via a G-quadruplex-dependent mechanism. These findings underscore the potential of peptide-based G-quadruplex ligands in cancer therapy and pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting these DNA structures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Simona Marzano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Pasquale Zizza
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome 00144, Italy
| | - Federica D’Aria
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Nicola Grasso
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Alice Carachino
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome 00144, Italy
| | - Sara Iachettini
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome 00144, Italy
| | - Annamaria Biroccio
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome 00144, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Fonzo
- Elettra-Sincrotrone Trieste S. C. p. A., Science Park, Trieste 34149, Italy
| | - Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Antonio Randazzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Jussara Amato
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Bruno Pagano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liu S, Zhong J, Zhang Z, Zhao R, Yan Q, Wang X. [ 64Cu]Cu-FAP-NOX, a N-oxalyl modified cyclic peptide for FAP PET imaging with a flexible imaging time window. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2024:10.1007/s00259-024-06807-6. [PMID: 38910166 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-024-06807-6] [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: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the present study was to develop a novel 64Cu-labeled cyclic peptide ([64Cu]Cu-FAP-NOX) that targets fibroblast activation protein (FAP) and may offer advantages in terms of image contrast, imaging time window, and low uptake in normal tissues. METHODS The novel cyclic peptide featuring with a N-oxalyl modified tail was constructed and conjugated to NOTA for 64Cu labeling. Biochemical and cellular assays were performed with A549.hFAP cells. The performance of [64Cu]Cu-FAP-NOX was compared to that of two established tracers ([64Cu]Cu-FAPI-04 and [68Ga]Ga-FAP-2286) and three different NOTA-conjugates in HEK-293T.hFAP xenograft mice using micro-PET imaging. Ex vivo biodistribution studies were performed to confirm the FAP specificity and to validate the PET data. Furthermore, a first-in-human study of this novel tracer was conducted on one patient with lung cancer. RESULTS Compared to [64Cu]Cu-FAPI-04, [64Cu]Cu-FAP-NOX demonstrated faster and higher rates of cellular uptake and internalization in A549.hFAP cells, but lower rates of cellular efflux. All six radiotracers were rapidly taken up by the tumor within the first 4 h post-injection. However, [64Cu]Cu-FAP-NOX had more intense tumor accumulation and slower washout from the target. The ratios of the tumor to normal tissue (including kidneys and muscles) increased significantly over time, with [64Cu]Cu-FAP-NOX reaching the highest ratio among all tracers. In the patient, [64Cu]Cu-FAP-NOX PET showed a comparable result to FDG PET in the primary malignant lesion while exhibiting higher uptake in pleural metastases, consistent with elevated FAP expression as confirmed by immunohistochemistry. CONCLUSION [64Cu]Cu-FAP-NOX is a promising FAP-targeted tracer with a highly flexible imaging time window, as evidenced by preclinical evaluation encompassing biodistribution and micro-PET studies, along with a successful patient application. Furthermore, [64Cu]Cu-FAP-NOX showed enhanced image contrast and favorable pharmacokinetic properties for FAP PET imaging, warranting translation into large cohort studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaoyu Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
| | - Jiawei Zhong
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Ziqi Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Ruiyue Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Qingsong Yan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Xinlu Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Morelli M, Madonna S, Albanesi C. SOCS1 and SOCS3 as key checkpoint molecules in the immune responses associated to skin inflammation and malignant transformation. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1393799. [PMID: 38975347 PMCID: PMC11224294 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1393799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
SOCS are a family of negative inhibitors of the molecular cascades induced by cytokines, growth factors and hormones. At molecular level, SOCS proteins inhibit the kinase activity of specific sets of receptor-associated Janus Activated Kinases (JAKs), thereby suppressing the propagation of intracellular signals. Of the eight known members, SOCS1 and SOCS3 inhibit activity of JAKs mainly induced by cytokines and can play key roles in regulation of inflammatory and immune responses. SOCS1 and SOCS3 are the most well-characterized SOCS members in skin inflammatory diseases, where their inhibitory activity on cytokine activated JAKs and consequent anti-inflammatory action has been widely investigated in epidermal keratinocytes. Structurally, SOCS1 and SOCS3 share the presence of a N-terminal domain containing a kinase inhibitory region (KIR) motif able to act as a pseudo-substrate for JAK and to inhibit its activity. During the last decades, the design and employment of SOCS1 and SOCS3-derived peptides mimicking KIR domains in experimental models of dermatoses definitively established a strong anti-inflammatory and ameliorative impact of JAK inhibition on skin inflammatory responses. Herein, we discuss the importance of the findings collected in the past on SOCS1 and SOCS3 function in the inflammatory responses associated to skin immune-mediated diseases and malignancies, for the development of the JAK inhibitor drugs. Among them, different JAK inhibitors have been introduced in the clinical practice for treatment of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, and others are being investigated for skin diseases like alopecia areata and vitiligo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefania Madonna
- Laboratory of Experimental Immunology, Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata - Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IDI-IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tan X, Liu Q, Fang Y, Yang S, Chen F, Wang J, Ouyang D, Dong J, Zeng W. Introducing enzymatic cleavage features and transfer learning realizes accurate peptide half-life prediction across species and organs. Brief Bioinform 2024; 25:bbae350. [PMID: 39038937 PMCID: PMC11262833 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbae350] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Peptide drugs are becoming star drug agents with high efficiency and selectivity which open up new therapeutic avenues for various diseases. However, the sensitivity to hydrolase and the relatively short half-life have severely hindered their development. In this study, a new generation artificial intelligence-based system for accurate prediction of peptide half-life was proposed, which realized the half-life prediction of both natural and modified peptides and successfully bridged the evaluation possibility between two important species (human, mouse) and two organs (blood, intestine). To achieve this, enzymatic cleavage descriptors were integrated with traditional peptide descriptors to construct a better representation. Then, robust models with accurate performance were established by comparing traditional machine learning and transfer learning, systematically. Results indicated that enzymatic cleavage features could certainly enhance model performance. The deep learning model integrating transfer learning significantly improved predictive accuracy, achieving remarkable R2 values: 0.84 for natural peptides and 0.90 for modified peptides in human blood, 0.984 for natural peptides and 0.93 for modified peptides in mouse blood, and 0.94 for modified peptides in mouse intestine on the test set, respectively. These models not only successfully composed the above-mentioned system but also improved by approximately 15% in terms of correlation compared to related works. This study is expected to provide powerful solutions for peptide half-life evaluation and boost peptide drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorong Tan
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, No. 172 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410083, P.R. China
| | - Qianhui Liu
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, No. 172 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410083, P.R. China
| | - Yanpeng Fang
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, No. 172 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410083, P.R. China
| | - Sen Yang
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, No. 172 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410083, P.R. China
| | - Fei Chen
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, No. 172 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410083, P.R. China
| | - Jianmin Wang
- The Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Integrative Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Yonsei University, 214, Veritas A Hall, Yonsei Univeristy, 85 Songdogwahak-ro, Incheon 21983, Republic of Korea
| | - Defang Ouyang
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences (ICMS), State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Jie Dong
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, No. 172 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410083, P.R. China
| | - Wenbin Zeng
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, No. 172 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410083, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ding X, Wang Y, Zhang S, Zhang R, Chen D, Liu C, Xu J, Chen L. Reductive amination of ω-conotoxin MVIIA: synthesis, determination of modification sites, and self-assembly. Amino Acids 2024; 56:26. [PMID: 38554247 PMCID: PMC10981597 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-023-03366-2] [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: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Peptide drugs have disadvantages such as low stability, short half-life and side effects, which limit their widespread use in clinical practice. Therefore, peptide drugs can be modified to improve these disadvantages. Numerous studies have shown that alkyl-modified peptide drugs can self-assemble to prolong the duration of efficacy and/or reduce side effects. However, the commonly used solid-phase synthesis method for alkyl-modified peptides is time-consuming. To overcome this, a simple reductive amination reaction was employed, which can directly graft the alkyl chain to the peptide sequence and effectively avoid stepwise synthesis from C- to N-terminal with amino acids. In this study, ω-conotoxin MVIIA was used as the peptide drug, while myristic aldehyde was used as the alkylating agent. To obtain the maximum productivity of modified peptides, the molar ratio of peptide MVIIA to myristic aldehyde in the reductive amination reaction was optimized. Furthermore, the peptide modification sites in this reaction were confirmed by secondary mass spectrometry analysis. Besides, alkyl-modified peptide MVIIA was able to form micelles by self-assembly and improved stability in serum, which was related to our previous work where myristoylated peptide MVIIA micelles can improve the drug stability. Finally, this study was intended to provide a methodological basis for modifying the alkyl chain of peptide drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiufang Ding
- State Key Laboratory of NBC Protection for Civilian, Beijing, 102205, China
| | - Yue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of NBC Protection for Civilian, Beijing, 102205, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Sida Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of NBC Protection for Civilian, Beijing, 102205, China
| | - Ruihua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of NBC Protection for Civilian, Beijing, 102205, China
| | - Dong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of NBC Protection for Civilian, Beijing, 102205, China
| | - Changcai Liu
- State Key Laboratory of NBC Protection for Civilian, Beijing, 102205, China
| | - Jianfu Xu
- State Key Laboratory of NBC Protection for Civilian, Beijing, 102205, China.
| | - Long Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lee MF, Anasir MI, Poh CL. Serum Stabilities and Antiviral Activities of Chemically Modified Peptides Against Dengue Serotypes 1-4. J Pharm Sci 2024; 113:587-595. [PMID: 38103687 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.12.009] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Dengue presents a major public health concern in over 100 countries due to the absence of an effective vaccine and antiviral therapy against all four dengue virus (DENV) serotypes. Several antiviral peptides were previously reported to inhibit at least three or all four DENV serotypes. Chemical modifications such as d-amino acid substitutions, polyethylene glycol (PEG)ylation, and cyclization could be applied to peptides to improve their biological activities and stability in serum. The PEGylated peptide 3 (PEG-P3) was identified to be the most promising antiviral candidate as it demonstrated good inhibitory effects against all four DENV serotypes during the pre- and post-infection stages, Based on the RP-HPLC and LC/MS analysis, peptide 4 was identified to be more stable in human serum than peptide 3, with 78.9 % and 41.6 % of the peptides remaining after 72 h of incubation in human serum, respectively. Both peptides were also able to retain their antiviral activities against specific DENV serotypes after 72 h incubation in human serum. PEG-P3 was found to be more stable than the unmodified peptide 3 with 89.4 % of PEG-P3 remaining in the human serum after 72 h of incubation. PEG-P3 was able to retain its inhibitory effects against DENV-1 to 4 after 72 h of incubation in human serum. This study provided insights into the antiviral activities and stabilities of the unmodified and chemically modified peptides in human serum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Felicia Lee
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 5, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, Selangor 47500, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Ishtiaq Anasir
- Virology Unit, Infectious Disease Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, Setia Alam, Shah Alam, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Chit Laa Poh
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 5, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, Selangor 47500, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Alarfaj NA, Alshehri EM, Al-Tamimi SA, El-Tohamy MF. Plant extract mediated synthesis of ZnO and CeO 2 nanoparticles for spectrofluorometric assay of omeprazole and domperidone in pharmaceuticals. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26164. [PMID: 38390119 PMCID: PMC10882036 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26164] [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: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The current research proposed a highly sensitive and selective spectrofluorometric approach for the assay of gastrointestinal medications omeprazole (OMZ) and domperidone (DOM). Green synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles such as zinc oxide (ZnONPs) and cerium oxide (CeO2NPs) using Pimpinella anisum and Syzygium aromaticum extract was used as fluorescence emission catalysts for the determination of OMZ and DOM. Due to their unique optical properties, nanoparticles (NPs) form the basis for spectrofluorimetric quantification of the selected drugs. The detection studies were performed under λex/λem 350/450 nm and 284/392 nm for OMZ and DOM in the presence of ZnONPs and CeO2NPs, respectively. Under ideal conditions, fluorescence intensities (FI) were linearly with correlation coefficient (r = 0.999) over concentration ranges of 0.1-100 and 0.01-200 μg mL-1 for OMZ, 0.01-100 and 0.01-300 n g mL-1 for DOM in the presence of ZnONPs and CeO2NPs, respectively. Method validation was carried out to guarantee the accuracy, suitability, and precision of the proposed fluorescence (FL) systems for the determination of OMZ and DOM. Analytical method guidelines and requirements were followed. The designed procedure was used effectively to identify the determined drugs in both their pure and commercial versions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nawal A Alarfaj
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eman M Alshehri
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salma A Al-Tamimi
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maha F El-Tohamy
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhou Y, Li J, Gao G, Li Y, Zhang C. Exploring a novel long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist built on the albumin-binding domain and XTEN scaffolds. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24340. [PMID: 38293540 PMCID: PMC10826136 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24340] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) has demonstrated considerable potential in the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity. However, the half-life of naturally occurring GLP-1 is quite short in vivo. Two common strategies employed for half-life extension are the use of the Albumin-binding domain (ABD) and XTEN polypeptide, which operate through different mechanisms. In this study, we designed an innovative GLP-1 receptor agonist with an extended duration of action. This new construct incorporated an albumin binding domain (ABD) and an XTEN sequence (either XTEN144 or XTEN288) as carriers. We referred to these fusion proteins as GLP-ABD-XTEN144 and GLP-ABD-XTEN288. In an E. coli system, the said constructs were efficaciously produced in substantial quantity. It was observed from in vitro studies that the fusion protein GLP-ABD-XTEN144 demonstrated a five times stronger affinity towards human serum albumin (HSA), boasting a binding affinity (Kd) of 5.50 nM. This was in contrast to GLP-ABD-XTEN288, whose Kd value was registered at 27.78 nM. Moreover, GLP-ABD-XTEN144 presented a half-life of 12.9 h in mice, thus exceeding the corresponding value for GLP-ABD-XTEN288, 7.32 h in mice. Both these fusion proteins significantly mitigated non-fasting blood sugar levels and overall food consumption for 48 h subsequent to a one-time injection in mice. Notably, GLP-ABD-XTEN144 exhibited more pronounced hypoglycemic activity and food inhibitory effects than GLP-ABD-XTEN288. The designed GLP-ABD-XTEN144 fusion protein shows promising prospects for clinical application in T2D treatment. Our findings also suggest that ABD and XTEN polypeptides synergistically contribute to half-life extension, further enhancing the pharmacokinetic characteristics of a payload.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Jianhui Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Guosheng Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Yafeng Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Duchuangsanzhong Biotech Co., Ltd., Jiaxing, China
| | - Changzhen Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Ningbo No. 2 Hospital, Ningbo, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abd-Aziz N, Lee MF, Ong SK, Poh CL. Antiviral activity of SP81 peptide against Enterovirus A71 (EV-A71). Virology 2024; 589:109941. [PMID: 37984152 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2023.109941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
The hand, food, and mouth disease (HFMD) is primarily caused by Enterovirus A71 (EV-A71). EV-A71 outbreaks in the Asia Pacific have been associated with severe neurological disease and high fatalities. Currently, there are no FDA-approved antivirals for the treatment of EV-A71 infections. In this study, the SP81 peptide, derived from the VP1 capsid protein of EV-A71 was shown to be a promising antiviral candidate for the treatment of EV-A71 infections. SP81 peptide was non-toxic to RD cells up to 45 μM, with a half-maximal cytotoxic concentration (CC50) of 90.32 μM. SP81 peptide exerted antiviral effects during the pre- and post-infection stages with 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of 4.529 μM and 1.192 μM, respectively. Direct virus inactivation of EV-A71 by the SP81 peptide was also observed with an IC50 of 8.076 μM. Additionally, the SP81 peptide exhibited direct virus inactivation of EV-A71 at 95% upon the addition of the SP81 peptide within 5 min. This study showed that the SP81 peptide exhibited significant inhibition of EV-A71 and could serve as a promising antiviral agent for further clinical development against EV-A71 infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noraini Abd-Aziz
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research (CVVR), School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Michelle Felicia Lee
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research (CVVR), School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Seng-Kai Ong
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chit Laa Poh
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research (CVVR), School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pandey R, Bakay M, Hakonarson H. SOCS-JAK-STAT inhibitors and SOCS mimetics as treatment options for autoimmune uveitis, psoriasis, lupus, and autoimmune encephalitis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1271102. [PMID: 38022642 PMCID: PMC10643230 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1271102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases arise from atypical immune responses that attack self-tissue epitopes, and their development is intricately connected to the disruption of the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, where SOCS proteins play crucial roles. Conditions such as autoimmune uveitis, psoriasis, lupus, and autoimmune encephalitis exhibit immune system dysfunctions associated with JAK-STAT signaling dysregulation. Emerging therapeutic strategies utilize JAK-STAT inhibitors and SOCS mimetics to modulate immune responses and alleviate autoimmune manifestations. Although more research and clinical studies are required to assess their effectiveness, safety profiles, and potential for personalized therapeutic approaches in autoimmune conditions, JAK-STAT inhibitors and SOCS mimetics show promise as potential treatment options. This review explores the action, effectiveness, safety profiles, and future prospects of JAK inhibitors and SOCS mimetics as therapeutic agents for psoriasis, autoimmune uveitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and autoimmune encephalitis. The findings underscore the importance of investigating these targeted therapies to advance treatment options for individuals suffering from autoimmune diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Pandey
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Marina Bakay
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Hakon Hakonarson
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chen M, Fang X, Du R, Meng J, Liu J, Liu M, Yang Y, Wang C. A Nucleus-Targeting WT1 Antagonistic Peptide Encapsulated in Polymeric Nanomicelles Combats Refractory Chronic Myeloid Leukemia. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2305. [PMID: 37765274 PMCID: PMC10534672 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092305] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is recognized as a classic clonal myeloproliferative disorder. Given the limited treatment options for CML patients in the accelerated phase (AP) and blast phase (BP), there is an evident need to develop new therapeutic strategies. This has the potential to improve outcomes for individuals in the advanced stages of CML. A promising therapeutic target is Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1), which is highly expressed in BP-CML cells and plays a crucial role in CML progression. In this study, a chemically synthesized nucleus-targeting WT1 antagonistic peptide termed WIP2W was identified. The therapeutic implications of both the peptide and its micellar formulation, M-WIP2W, were evaluated in WT1+ BP-CML cell lines and in mice. The findings indicate that WIP2W can bind specifically to the WT1 protein, inducing cell cycle arrest and notable cytotoxicity in WT1+ BP-CML cells. Moreover, subcutaneous injections of M-WIP2W were observed to significantly enhance intra-tumoral accumulation and to effectively inhibit tumor growth. Thus, WIP2W stands out as a potent and selective WT1 inhibitor, and the M-WIP2W nanoformulation appears promising for the therapeutic treatment of refractory CML as well as other WT1-overexpressing malignant cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; (M.C.); (X.F.); (R.D.); (J.M.); (J.L.); (M.L.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaocui Fang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; (M.C.); (X.F.); (R.D.); (J.M.); (J.L.); (M.L.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Rong Du
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; (M.C.); (X.F.); (R.D.); (J.M.); (J.L.); (M.L.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jie Meng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; (M.C.); (X.F.); (R.D.); (J.M.); (J.L.); (M.L.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jingyi Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; (M.C.); (X.F.); (R.D.); (J.M.); (J.L.); (M.L.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Mingpeng Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; (M.C.); (X.F.); (R.D.); (J.M.); (J.L.); (M.L.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yanlian Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; (M.C.); (X.F.); (R.D.); (J.M.); (J.L.); (M.L.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chen Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; (M.C.); (X.F.); (R.D.); (J.M.); (J.L.); (M.L.)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Liao Y, Wang M, Jiang X. Sulfur-containing peptides: Synthesis and application in the discovery of potential drug candidates. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2023; 75:102336. [PMID: 37269675 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2023.102336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Peptides act as biological mediators and play a key role of various physiological activities. Sulfur-containing peptides are widely used in natural products and drug molecules due to their unique biological activity and chemical reactivity of sulfur. Disulfides, thioethers, and thioamides are the most common motifs of sulfur-containing peptides, and they have been extensively studied and developed for synthetic methodology as well as pharmaceutical applications. This review focuses on the illustration of these three motifs in natural products and drugs, as well as the recent advancements in the synthesis of the corresponding core scaffolds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Liao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Process, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Process, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xuefeng Jiang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Process, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China; State Key Laboratory of Organometallic Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China; State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Nankai University, China.
| |
Collapse
|