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Fajardo C RJ, Clavijo C, Díaz GJ, Cadavid LF. Tissue distribution and expression dynamics of trefoil factor genes in the hydroid Hydractinia symbiolongicarpus. Gene 2024; 929:148824. [PMID: 39103057 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Proteins of the trefoil factor family (TFF) participate in mucosal repair and are formed by single or tandemly repeated trefoil domains. TFFs have been extensively studied in mammals and amphibians, but they have not been functionally characterized in other animals. Here we report the identification of two genes expressed in the hydroid Hydractinia symbiolongicarpus, predicted to encode trefoil domain-containing peptides, one with four trefoil domains in tandem and the other one with a trefoil domain flanked by two ShKT domains. Differential expression analyses by qPCR after an immune challenge and an induced mechanical damage, reveal that the former gene (hysyTFF) had no significant changes in expression after the inductions. However, the latter (hysyTFF-like) was overexpressed after three hours post immune challenge and was downregulated after the first hour post epithelial damage. Immunoblot analyses using specific IgY antibodies revealed that hysyTFF is secreted as a high molecular weight complex. Finally, whole mount immunofluorescence assays showed that hysyTFF was predominantly expressed in the endoderm of stolons and polyps, and sparsely in the ectoderm of both polyps and larvae. Thus, the tissue distribution and expression dynamics of trefoil factor genes in H. symbiolongicarpus suggest that hysyTFF is part of an ancient mechanism of epithelial restitution, and the newly reported hysyTFF-like might act as an immune effector gene, perhaps encoding an antibacterial peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Johana Fajardo C
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia - Sede Bogotá, 111321 Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Carlos Clavijo
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia - Sede Bogotá, 111321 Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Gonzalo J Díaz
- Departamento de Salud Animal, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional de Colombia - Sede Bogotá, 111321 Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Luis F Cadavid
- Instituto de Genética, Universidad Nacional de Colombia - Sede Bogotá, 111321 Bogotá, Colombia.
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2
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Hua Z, Liao Y, Fu J, Li X, Xu Q, Lin L, Huang M, Gao B. Revealing the Diversity of Sequences, Structures, and Targets of Peptides from South China Sea Macrodactyla doreensis Based on Transcriptomics. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:470. [PMID: 39452877 PMCID: PMC11509556 DOI: 10.3390/md22100470] [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: 08/23/2024] [Revised: 10/10/2024] [Accepted: 10/10/2024] [Indexed: 10/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The South China Sea is rich in sea anemone resources, and the protein and peptide components from sea anemone toxins comprise an important treasure trove for researchers to search for leading compounds. This study conducted a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of the tentacles and column of Macrodactyla doreensis and explored the distribution and diversity of proteins and peptides in depth using bioinformatics, initially constructing a putative protein and peptide database. In this database, typical peptide families are identified through amino acid sequence analysis, and their 3D structures and potential biological activities are revealed through AlphaFold2 modeling and molecular docking. A total of 4239 transcripts were identified, of which the putative protein accounted for 81.53%. The highest content comprised immunoglobulin and a variety of proteases, mainly distributed in the column and related to biological functions. Importantly, the putative peptide accounted for 18.47%, containing ShK domain and Kunitz-type peptides, mainly distributed in the tentacles and related to offensive predatory behavior. Interestingly, 40 putative peptides belonging to eight typical peptide families were identified, and their structures and targets were predicted. This study reveals the diversity and complexity of Macrodactyla doreensis toxins and predicts their structure and targets based on amino acid sequences, providing a feasible approach for research regarding the discovery of peptides with potentially high activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Meiling Huang
- Engineering Research Center of Tropical Medicine Innovation and Transformation of Ministry of Education, Hainan Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Tropical Herbs, International Joint Research Center of Human-Machine Intelligent Collaborative for Tumor Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Hainan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (Z.H.); (Y.L.); (J.F.); (X.L.); (Q.X.); (L.L.)
| | - Bingmiao Gao
- Engineering Research Center of Tropical Medicine Innovation and Transformation of Ministry of Education, Hainan Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Tropical Herbs, International Joint Research Center of Human-Machine Intelligent Collaborative for Tumor Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Hainan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (Z.H.); (Y.L.); (J.F.); (X.L.); (Q.X.); (L.L.)
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3
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Tassara E, Mikšík I, Pompach P, Mariottini GL, Xiao L, Giovine M, Pozzolini M. Proteomic Analysis and Biochemical Characterization of the Nematocyst Extract of the Hydrozoan Velella velella. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:468. [PMID: 39452876 PMCID: PMC11509761 DOI: 10.3390/md22100468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2024] [Revised: 09/25/2024] [Accepted: 10/09/2024] [Indexed: 10/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The venom contained within cnidarian nematocysts has a complex composition and holds significant potential for biotechnological applications. In this context, one of the most effective methods for studying nematocyst contents is the proteomic approach, which can detect even trace amounts of compounds while minimizing the need for large-scale animal collection, thus helping to preserve ecosystem integrity. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive proteomic and biochemical characterization of the crude nematocyst extract from the common hydrozoan Velella velella. Despite not being harmful to humans, the analysis of the crude venom extract from V. velella brought to the identification of 783 different proteins, categorized into structural components, enzymes, and potential toxins, revealing a qualitative composition of the venom similar to that of other more toxic cnidarians. Biochemical assays confirmed the presence of various active hydrolytic enzymes within the extract, including proteases, phospholipases, hyaluronidases, DNases, and chitinases. These findings pave the road for future studies involving the pharmacological applications of Velella velella venom components through recombinant production and functional testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Tassara
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy; (E.T.); (G.L.M.)
| | - Ivan Mikšík
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical Technology, University of Pardubice, Studentska 573, 532 10 Pardubice, Czech Republic;
| | - Petr Pompach
- Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic;
| | - Gian Luigi Mariottini
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy; (E.T.); (G.L.M.)
| | - Liang Xiao
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China;
| | - Marco Giovine
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy; (E.T.); (G.L.M.)
| | - Marina Pozzolini
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Via Pastore 3, 16132 Genova, Italy; (E.T.); (G.L.M.)
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4
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Albar RA, Smith HL, Sanches K, Wai DCC, Naseem MU, Szanto TG, Panyi G, Prentis PJ, Norton RS. Structure and functional studies of Avt1, a novel peptide from the sea anemone Aulactinia veratra. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2024; 1873:141050. [PMID: 39357665 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2024.141050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 09/25/2024] [Accepted: 09/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
Sea anemones are a rich source of peptide toxins spanning a diverse range of biological activities, typically targeting proteins such as ion channels, receptors and transporters. These peptide toxins and their analogues are usually highly stable and selective for their molecular targets, rendering them of interest as molecular tools, insecticides and therapeutics. Recent transcriptomic and proteomic analyses of the sea anemone Aulactinia veratra identified a novel 28-residue peptide, designated Avt1. Avt1 was produced using solid-phase peptide synthesis, followed by oxidative folding and purification of the folded peptide using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry profile of synthetic Avt1 showed a pure peak with molecular mass 6 Da less than that of the reduced form of the peptide, indicating the successful formation of three disulfide bonds. The solution structure determined by NMR revealed that Avt1 adopts an inhibitor cystine knot (ICK) fold, in which a ring is formed by two disulfide bonds with a third disulfide penetrating the ring to create the pseudo-knot. This structure provides ICK peptides with high structural, thermal and proteolytic stability. Consistent with its ICK structure, Avt1 was resistant to proteolysis by trypsin, chymotrypsin and pepsin, although it was not a trypsin inhibitor. Avt1 at 100 nM showed no activity in patch-clamp electrophysiological assays against several mammalian voltage-gated ion channels, but has structural features similar to toxins targeting insect sodium ion channels. Although sequence homologues of Avt1 are found in a number of sea anemones, this is the first representative of this family to be characterised structurally and functionally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renad A Albar
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Hayden L Smith
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Karoline Sanches
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Dorothy C C Wai
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Muhammad Umair Naseem
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen 4032, Hungary
| | - Tibor G Szanto
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen 4032, Hungary
| | - Gyorgy Panyi
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen 4032, Hungary
| | - Peter J Prentis
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia; Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Raymond S Norton
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.
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5
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Chiappa G, Fassio G, Modica MV, Oliverio M. Potential Ancestral Conoidean Toxins in the Venom Cocktail of the Carnivorous Snail Raphitoma purpurea (Montagu, 1803) (Neogastropoda: Raphitomidae). Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:348. [PMID: 39195758 PMCID: PMC11359391 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16080348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Venomous marine gastropods of the superfamily Conoidea possess a rich arsenal of toxins, including neuroactive toxins. Venom adaptations might have played a fundamental role in the radiation of conoideans; nevertheless, there is still no knowledge about the venom of the most diversified family of the group: Raphitomidae Bellardi, 1875. In this study, transcriptomes were produced from the carcase, salivary glands, and proximal and distal venom ducts of the northeastern Atlantic species Raphitoma purpurea (Montagu, 1803). Using a gut barcoding approach, we were also able to report, for the first time, molecular evidence of a vermivorous diet for the genus. Transcriptomic analyses revealed over a hundred putative venom components (PVC), including 69 neurotoxins. Twenty novel toxin families, including some with high levels of expansion, were discovered. No significant difference was observed between the distal and proximal venom duct secretions. Peptides related to cone snail toxins (Cerm06, Pgam02, and turritoxin) and other venom-related proteins (disulfide isomerase and elevenin) were retrieved from the salivary glands. These salivary venom components may constitute ancestral adaptations for venom production in conoideans. Although often neglected, salivary gland secretions are of extreme importance for understanding the evolutionary history of conoidean venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Chiappa
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 32, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.F.); (M.O.)
| | - Giulia Fassio
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 32, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.F.); (M.O.)
| | - Maria Vittoria Modica
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Via Gregorio Allegri 1, 00198 Rome, Italy;
| | - Marco Oliverio
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell’Università 32, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.F.); (M.O.)
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6
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Jiang H, Wang Y, Zhang G, Jia A, Wei Z, Wang Y. Identification and Evolutionary Analysis of the Widely Distributed CAP Superfamily in Spider Venom. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:240. [PMID: 38922134 PMCID: PMC11209345 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16060240] [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: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Venom plays a crucial role in the defense and predation of venomous animals. Spiders (Araneae) are among the most successful predators and have a fascinating venom composition. Their venom mainly contains disulfide-rich peptides and large proteins. Here, we analyzed spider venom protein families, utilizing transcriptomic and genomic data, and highlighted their similarities and differences. We show that spiders have specific combinations of toxins for better predation and defense, typically comprising a core toxin expressed alongside several auxiliary toxins. Among them, the CAP superfamily is widely distributed and highly expressed in web-building Araneoidea spiders. Our analysis of evolutionary relationships revealed four subfamilies (subA-subD) of the CAP superfamily that differ in structure and potential functions. CAP proteins are composed of a conserved CAP domain and diverse C-terminal domains. CAP subC shares similar domains with the snake ion channel regulator svCRISP proteins, while CAP subD possesses a sequence similar to that of insect venom allergen 5 (Ag5). Furthermore, we show that gene duplication and selective expression lead to increased expression of CAP subD, making it a core member of the CAP superfamily. This study sheds light on the functional diversity of CAP subfamilies and their evolutionary history, which has important implications for fully understanding the composition of spider venom proteins and the core toxin components of web-building spiders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongcen Jiang
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (H.J.)
| | - Yiru Wang
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (H.J.)
| | - Guoqing Zhang
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (H.J.)
| | - Anqiang Jia
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (H.J.)
- Yazhouwan National Laboratory, Sanya 572024, China
| | - Zhaoyuan Wei
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (H.J.)
| | - Yi Wang
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China; (H.J.)
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Kim YJ, Jo Y, Lee SE, Kim J, Choi JP, Lee N, Won H, Woo DH, Yum S. Synthetic ShK-like Peptide from the Jellyfish Nemopilema nomurai Has Human Voltage-Gated Potassium-Channel-Blocking Activity. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:217. [PMID: 38786608 PMCID: PMC11122761 DOI: 10.3390/md22050217] [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: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
We identified a new human voltage-gated potassium channel blocker, NnK-1, in the jellyfish Nemopilema nomurai based on its genomic information. The gene sequence encoding NnK-1 contains 5408 base pairs, with five introns and six exons. The coding sequence of the NnK-1 precursor is 894 nucleotides long and encodes 297 amino acids containing five presumptive ShK-like peptides. An electrophysiological assay demonstrated that the fifth peptide, NnK-1, which was chemically synthesized, is an effective blocker of hKv1.3, hKv1.4, and hKv1.5. Multiple-sequence alignment with cnidarian Shk-like peptides, which have Kv1.3-blocking activity, revealed that three residues (3Asp, 25Lys, and 34Thr) of NnK-1, together with six cysteine residues, were conserved. Therefore, we hypothesized that these three residues are crucial for the binding of the toxin to voltage-gated potassium channels. This notion was confirmed by an electrophysiological assay with a synthetic peptide (NnK-1 mu) where these three peptides were substituted with 3Glu, 25Arg, and 34Met. In conclusion, we successfully identified and characterized a new voltage-gated potassium channel blocker in jellyfish that interacts with three different voltage-gated potassium channels. A peptide that interacts with multiple voltage-gated potassium channels has many therapeutic applications in various physiological and pathophysiological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Ji Kim
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea;
- Human and Environmental Toxicology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Yejin Jo
- Ecological Risk Research Division, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST), Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.); (N.L.); (H.W.)
| | - Seung Eun Lee
- Research Animal Resource Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea;
| | - Jungeun Kim
- Personal Genomics Institute (PGI), Genome Research Foundation (GRF), Cheongju 28160, Republic of Korea; (J.K.); (J.-P.C.)
| | - Jae-Pil Choi
- Personal Genomics Institute (PGI), Genome Research Foundation (GRF), Cheongju 28160, Republic of Korea; (J.K.); (J.-P.C.)
| | - Nayoung Lee
- Ecological Risk Research Division, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST), Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.); (N.L.); (H.W.)
| | - Hyokyoung Won
- Ecological Risk Research Division, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST), Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.); (N.L.); (H.W.)
| | - Dong Ho Woo
- Department of Advanced Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea;
- Human and Environmental Toxicology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungshic Yum
- Ecological Risk Research Division, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST), Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.); (N.L.); (H.W.)
- KIOST School, University of Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea
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Guo Q, Fu J, Yuan L, Liao Y, Li M, Li X, Yi B, Zhang J, Gao B. Diversity analysis of sea anemone peptide toxins in different tissues of Heteractis crispa based on transcriptomics. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7684. [PMID: 38561372 PMCID: PMC10985097 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58402-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Peptide toxins found in sea anemones venom have diverse properties that make them important research subjects in the fields of pharmacology, neuroscience and biotechnology. This study used high-throughput sequencing technology to systematically analyze the venom components of the tentacles, column, and mesenterial filaments of sea anemone Heteractis crispa, revealing the diversity and complexity of sea anemone toxins in different tissues. A total of 1049 transcripts were identified and categorized into 60 families, of which 91.0% were proteins and 9.0% were peptides. Of those 1049 transcripts, 416, 291, and 307 putative proteins and peptide precursors were identified from tentacles, column, and mesenterial filaments respectively, while 428 were identified when the datasets were combined. Of these putative toxin sequences, 42 were detected in all three tissues, including 33 proteins and 9 peptides, with the majority of peptides being ShKT domain, β-defensin, and Kunitz-type. In addition, this study applied bioinformatics approaches to predict the family classification, 3D structures, and functional annotation of these representative peptides, as well as the evolutionary relationships between peptides, laying the foundation for the next step of peptide pharmacological activity research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiqi Guo
- Engineering Research Center of Tropical Medicine Innovation and Transformation, Ministry of Education, International Joint Research Center of Human-machine Intelligent Collaborative for Tumor Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Hainan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Jinxing Fu
- Engineering Research Center of Tropical Medicine Innovation and Transformation, Ministry of Education, International Joint Research Center of Human-machine Intelligent Collaborative for Tumor Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Hainan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Lin Yuan
- Engineering Research Center of Tropical Medicine Innovation and Transformation, Ministry of Education, International Joint Research Center of Human-machine Intelligent Collaborative for Tumor Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Hainan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- Department of Pharmacy, 928th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Haikou, China
| | - Yanling Liao
- Engineering Research Center of Tropical Medicine Innovation and Transformation, Ministry of Education, International Joint Research Center of Human-machine Intelligent Collaborative for Tumor Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Hainan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Ming Li
- Engineering Research Center of Tropical Medicine Innovation and Transformation, Ministry of Education, International Joint Research Center of Human-machine Intelligent Collaborative for Tumor Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Hainan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Xinzhong Li
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Bo Yi
- Department of Pharmacy, 928th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Haikou, China
| | - Junqing Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Tropical Medicine Innovation and Transformation, Ministry of Education, International Joint Research Center of Human-machine Intelligent Collaborative for Tumor Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Hainan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China.
| | - Bingmiao Gao
- Engineering Research Center of Tropical Medicine Innovation and Transformation, Ministry of Education, International Joint Research Center of Human-machine Intelligent Collaborative for Tumor Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Hainan Province, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China.
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9
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Sanches K, Ashwood LM, Olushola-Siedoks AAM, Wai DCC, Rahman A, Shakeel K, Naseem MU, Panyi G, Prentis PJ, Norton RS. Structure-function relationships in ShKT domain peptides: ShKT-Ts1 from the sea anemone Telmatactis stephensoni. Proteins 2024; 92:192-205. [PMID: 37794633 DOI: 10.1002/prot.26594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Diverse structural scaffolds have been described in peptides from sea anemones, with the ShKT domain being a common scaffold first identified in ShK toxin from Stichodactyla helianthus. ShK is a potent blocker of voltage-gated potassium channels (KV 1.x), and an analog, ShK-186 (dalazatide), has completed Phase 1 clinical trials in plaque psoriasis. The ShKT domain has been found in numerous other species, but only a tiny fraction of ShKT domains has been characterized functionally. Despite adopting the canonical ShK fold, some ShKT peptides from sea anemones inhibit KV 1.x, while others do not. Mutagenesis studies have shown that a Lys-Tyr (KY) dyad plays a key role in KV 1.x blockade, although a cationic residue followed by a hydrophobic residue may also suffice. Nevertheless, ShKT peptides displaying an ShK-like fold and containing a KY dyad do not necessarily block potassium channels, so additional criteria are needed to determine whether new ShKT peptides might show activity against potassium channels. In this study, we used a combination of NMR and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to assess the potential activity of a new ShKT peptide. We determined the structure of ShKT-Ts1, from the sea anemone Telmatactis stephensoni, examined its tissue localization, and investigated its activity against a range of ion channels. As ShKT-Ts1 showed no activity against KV 1.x channels, we used MD simulations to investigate whether solvent exposure of the dyad residues may be informative in rationalizing and potentially predicting the ability of ShKT peptides to block KV 1.x channels. We show that either a buried dyad that does not become exposed during MD simulations, or a partially exposed dyad that becomes buried during MD simulations, correlates with weak or absent activity against KV 1.x channels. Therefore, structure determination coupled with MD simulations, may be used to predict whether new sequences belonging to the ShKT family may act as potassium channel blockers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karoline Sanches
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lauren M Ashwood
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Dorothy C C Wai
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Arfatur Rahman
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kashmala Shakeel
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Muhammad Umair Naseem
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gyorgy Panyi
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Peter J Prentis
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Raymond S Norton
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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10
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Mendonça M, Vicente CSL, Espada M. Functional Characterization of ShK Domain-Containing Protein in the Plant-Parasitic Nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:404. [PMID: 38337937 PMCID: PMC10857297 DOI: 10.3390/plants13030404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
ShK domain-containing proteins are peptides found in different parasitic and venomous organisms. From a previous transcriptomic dataset from Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, a plant-parasitic nematode that infects forest tree species, we identified 96 transcripts potentially as ShK domain-containing proteins with unknown function in the nematode genome. This study aimed to characterize and explore the functional role of genes encoding ShK domain-containing proteins in B. xylophilus biology. We selected and functionally analyzed nine candidate genes that are putatively specific to B. xylophilus. In situ hybridization revealed expression of one B. xylophilus ShK in the pharyngeal gland cells, suggesting their delivery into host cells. Most of the transcripts are highly expressed during infection and showed a significant upregulation in response to peroxide products compared to the nematode catalase enzymes. We reported, for the first time, the potential involvement of ShK domain genes in oxidative stress, suggesting that these proteins may have an important role in protecting or modulating the reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity of the host plant during parasitism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Margarida Espada
- MED—Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development & CHANGE—Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Institute for Advanced Studies, and Research, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Ap. 94, 7006-554 Évora, Portugal; (M.M.); (C.S.L.V.)
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11
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Li M, Mao K, Huang M, Liao Y, Fu J, Pan K, Shi Q, Gao B. Venomics Reveals the Venom Complexity of Sea Anemone Heteractis magnifica. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:71. [PMID: 38393042 PMCID: PMC10890322 DOI: 10.3390/md22020071] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The venoms of various sea anemones are rich in diverse toxins, which usually play a dual role in capturing prey and deterring predators. However, the complex components of such venoms have not been well known yet. Here, venomics of integrating transcriptomic and proteomic technologies was applied for the first time to identify putative protein and peptide toxins from different tissues of the representative sea anemone, Heteractis magnifica. The transcriptomic analysis of H. magnifica identified 728 putative toxin sequences, including 442 and 381 from the tentacles and the column, respectively, and they were assigned to 68 gene superfamilies. The proteomic analysis confirmed 101 protein and peptide toxins in the venom, including 91 in the tentacles and 39 in the column. The integrated venomics also confirmed that some toxins such as the ShK-like peptides and defensins are co-expressed in both the tentacles and the column. Meanwhile, a homology analysis was conducted to predict the three-dimensional structures and potential activity of seven representative toxins. Altogether, this venomics study revealed the venom complexity of H. magnifica, which will help deepen our understanding of cnidarian toxins, thereby supporting the in-depth development of valuable marine drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Tropical Herbs, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (M.L.); (K.M.); (M.H.); (Y.L.); (J.F.); (K.P.)
| | - Kailin Mao
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Tropical Herbs, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (M.L.); (K.M.); (M.H.); (Y.L.); (J.F.); (K.P.)
| | - Meiling Huang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Tropical Herbs, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (M.L.); (K.M.); (M.H.); (Y.L.); (J.F.); (K.P.)
| | - Yanling Liao
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Tropical Herbs, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (M.L.); (K.M.); (M.H.); (Y.L.); (J.F.); (K.P.)
| | - Jinxing Fu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Tropical Herbs, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (M.L.); (K.M.); (M.H.); (Y.L.); (J.F.); (K.P.)
| | - Kun Pan
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Tropical Herbs, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (M.L.); (K.M.); (M.H.); (Y.L.); (J.F.); (K.P.)
| | - Qiong Shi
- Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518057, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, Shenzhen 518081, China
| | - Bingmiao Gao
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Tropical Herbs, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (M.L.); (K.M.); (M.H.); (Y.L.); (J.F.); (K.P.)
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12
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Elnahriry KA, Wai DCC, Ashwood LM, Naseem MU, Szanto TG, Guo S, Panyi G, Prentis PJ, Norton RS. Structural and functional characterisation of Tst2, a novel TRPV1 inhibitory peptide from the Australian sea anemone Telmatactis stephensoni. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2024; 1872:140952. [PMID: 37640250 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2023.140952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Sea anemone venoms are complex mixtures of biologically active compounds, including disulfide-rich peptides, some of which have found applications as research tools, and others as therapeutic leads. Our recent transcriptomic and proteomic studies of the Australian sea anemone Telmatactis stephensoni identified a transcript for a peptide designated Tst2. Tst2 is a 38-residue peptide showing sequence similarity to peptide toxins known to interact with a range of ion channels (NaV, TRPV1, KV and CaV). Recombinant Tst2 (rTst2, which contains an additional Gly at the N-terminus) was produced by periplasmic expression in Escherichia coli, enabling the production of both unlabelled and uniformly 13C,15N-labelled peptide for functional assays and structural studies. The LC-MS profile of the recombinant Tst2 showed a pure peak with molecular mass 6 Da less than that of the reduced form of the peptide, indicating the successful formation of three disulfide bonds from its six cysteine residues. The solution structure of rTst2 was determined using multidimensional NMR spectroscopy and revealed that rTst2 adopts an inhibitor cystine knot (ICK) structure. rTst2 was screened using various functional assays, including patch-clamp electrophysiological and cytotoxicity assays. rTst2 was inactive against voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV) and the human voltage-gated proton (hHv1) channel. rTst2 also did not possess cytotoxic activity when assessed against Drosophila melanogaster flies. However, the recombinant peptide at 100 nM showed >50% inhibition of the transient receptor potential subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) and slight (∼10%) inhibition of transient receptor potential subfamily A member 1 (TRPA1). Tst2 is thus a novel ICK inhibitor of the TRPV1 channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled A Elnahriry
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Dorothy C C Wai
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Lauren M Ashwood
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Muhammad Umair Naseem
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen 4032, Hungary
| | - Tibor G Szanto
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen 4032, Hungary
| | - Shaodong Guo
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Gyorgy Panyi
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen 4032, Hungary
| | - Peter J Prentis
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia; Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Raymond S Norton
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.
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13
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Chandy KG, Sanches K, Norton RS. Structure of the voltage-gated potassium channel K V1.3: Insights into the inactivated conformation and binding to therapeutic leads. Channels (Austin) 2023; 17:2253104. [PMID: 37695839 PMCID: PMC10496531 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2023.2253104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The voltage-gated potassium channel KV1.3 is an important therapeutic target for the treatment of autoimmune and neuroinflammatory diseases. The recent structures of KV1.3, Shaker-IR (wild-type and inactivating W434F mutant) and an inactivating mutant of rat KV1.2-KV2.1 paddle chimera (KVChim-W362F+S367T+V377T) reveal that the transition of voltage-gated potassium channels from the open-conducting conformation into the non-conducting inactivated conformation involves the rupture of a key intra-subunit hydrogen bond that tethers the selectivity filter to the pore helix. Breakage of this bond allows the side chains of residues at the external end of the selectivity filter (Tyr447 and Asp449 in KV1.3) to rotate outwards, dilating the outer pore and disrupting ion permeation. Binding of the peptide dalazatide (ShK-186) and an antibody-ShK fusion to the external vestibule of KV1.3 narrows and stabilizes the selectivity filter in the open-conducting conformation, although K+ efflux is blocked by the peptide occluding the pore through the interaction of ShK-Lys22 with the backbone carbonyl of KV1.3-Tyr447 in the selectivity filter. Electrophysiological studies on ShK and the closely-related peptide HmK show that ShK blocks KV1.3 with significantly higher potency, even though molecular dynamics simulations show that ShK is more flexible than HmK. Binding of the anti-KV1.3 nanobody A0194009G09 to the turret and residues in the external loops of the voltage-sensing domain enhances the dilation of the outer selectivity filter in an exaggerated inactivated conformation. These studies lay the foundation to further define the mechanism of slow inactivation in KV channels and can help guide the development of future KV1.3-targeted immuno-therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. George Chandy
- LKCMedicine-ICESing Ion Channel Platform, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Karoline Sanches
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Raymond S. Norton
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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14
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Sonoda GG, Tobaruela EDC, Norenburg J, Fabi JP, Andrade SCS. Venomous Noodles: The Evolution of Toxins in Nemertea through Positive Selection and Gene Duplication. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:650. [PMID: 37999513 PMCID: PMC10674772 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15110650] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Some, probably most and perhaps all, members of the phylum Nemertea are poisonous, documented so far from marine and benthic specimens. Although the toxicity of these animals has been long known, systematic studies on the characterization of toxins, mechanisms of toxicity, and toxin evolution for this group are scarce. Here, we present the first investigation of the molecular evolution of toxins in Nemertea. Using a proteo-transcriptomic approach, we described toxins in the body and poisonous mucus of the pilidiophoran Lineus sanguineus and the hoplonemertean Nemertopsis pamelaroeae. Using these new and publicly available transcriptomes, we investigated the molecular evolution of six selected toxin gene families. In addition, we also characterized in silico the toxin genes found in the interstitial hoplonemertean, Ototyphlonemertes erneba, a meiofaunal taxa. We successfully identified over 200 toxin transcripts in each of these species. Evidence of positive selection and gene duplication was observed in all investigated toxin genes. We hypothesized that the increased rates of gene duplications observed for Pilidiophora could be involved with the expansion of toxin genes. Studies concerning the natural history of Nemertea are still needed to understand the evolution of their toxins. Nevertheless, our results show evolutionary mechanisms similar to other venomous groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Gonzalez Sonoda
- Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, IB-Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil;
- Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
| | - Eric de Castro Tobaruela
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Food Research Center (FoRC), Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-080, Brazil; (E.d.C.T.); (J.P.F.)
| | | | - João Paulo Fabi
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Food Research Center (FoRC), Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-080, Brazil; (E.d.C.T.); (J.P.F.)
| | - Sónia C. S. Andrade
- Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, IB-Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil;
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15
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Costa L, Sousa E, Fernandes C. Cyclic Peptides in Pipeline: What Future for These Great Molecules? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:996. [PMID: 37513908 PMCID: PMC10386233 DOI: 10.3390/ph16070996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclic peptides are molecules that are already used as drugs in therapies approved for various pharmacological activities, for example, as antibiotics, antifungals, anticancer, and immunosuppressants. Interest in these molecules has been growing due to the improved pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the cyclic structure over linear peptides and by the evolution of chemical synthesis, computational, and in vitro methods. To date, 53 cyclic peptides have been approved by different regulatory authorities, and many others are in clinical trials for a wide diversity of conditions. In this review, the potential of cyclic peptides is presented, and general aspects of their synthesis and development are discussed. Furthermore, an overview of already approved cyclic peptides is also given, and the cyclic peptides in clinical trials are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lia Costa
- Laboratório de Química Orgânica e Farmacêutica, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal;
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR), Edifício do Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos s/n, 4050-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Emília Sousa
- Laboratório de Química Orgânica e Farmacêutica, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal;
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR), Edifício do Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos s/n, 4050-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Carla Fernandes
- Laboratório de Química Orgânica e Farmacêutica, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal;
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR), Edifício do Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos s/n, 4050-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
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16
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Ashwood LM, Elnahriry KA, Stewart ZK, Shafee T, Naseem MU, Szanto TG, van der Burg CA, Smith HL, Surm JM, Undheim EAB, Madio B, Hamilton BR, Guo S, Wai DCC, Coyne VL, Phillips MJ, Dudley KJ, Hurwood DA, Panyi G, King GF, Pavasovic A, Norton RS, Prentis PJ. Genomic, functional and structural analyses elucidate evolutionary innovation within the sea anemone 8 toxin family. BMC Biol 2023; 21:121. [PMID: 37226201 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01617-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ShK toxin from Stichodactyla helianthus has established the therapeutic potential of sea anemone venom peptides, but many lineage-specific toxin families in Actiniarians remain uncharacterised. One such peptide family, sea anemone 8 (SA8), is present in all five sea anemone superfamilies. We explored the genomic arrangement and evolution of the SA8 gene family in Actinia tenebrosa and Telmatactis stephensoni, characterised the expression patterns of SA8 sequences, and examined the structure and function of SA8 from the venom of T. stephensoni. RESULTS We identified ten SA8-family genes in two clusters and six SA8-family genes in five clusters for T. stephensoni and A. tenebrosa, respectively. Nine SA8 T. stephensoni genes were found in a single cluster, and an SA8 peptide encoded by an inverted SA8 gene from this cluster was recruited to venom. We show that SA8 genes in both species are expressed in a tissue-specific manner and the inverted SA8 gene has a unique tissue distribution. While the functional activity of the SA8 putative toxin encoded by the inverted gene was inconclusive, its tissue localisation is similar to toxins used for predator deterrence. We demonstrate that, although mature SA8 putative toxins have similar cysteine spacing to ShK, SA8 peptides are distinct from ShK peptides based on structure and disulfide connectivity. CONCLUSIONS Our results provide the first demonstration that SA8 is a unique gene family in Actiniarians, evolving through a variety of structural changes including tandem and proximal gene duplication and an inversion event that together allowed SA8 to be recruited into the venom of T. stephensoni.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Ashwood
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia.
- Cancer Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia.
| | - Khaled A Elnahriry
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Zachary K Stewart
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Thomas Shafee
- Department of Animal Plant & Soil Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Muhammad Umair Naseem
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tibor G Szanto
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Chloé A van der Burg
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand
| | - Hayden L Smith
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Joachim M Surm
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior, Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Eivind A B Undheim
- Department of Biosciences, Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, University of Oslo, Blindern, PO Box 1066, 0316, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Bruno Madio
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Brett R Hamilton
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
- Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Shaodong Guo
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Dorothy C C Wai
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Victoria L Coyne
- Research Infrastructure, Central Analytical Research Facility, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Matthew J Phillips
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Kevin J Dudley
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
- Research Infrastructure, Central Analytical Research Facility, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - David A Hurwood
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Gyorgy Panyi
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
- ARC Centre for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Ana Pavasovic
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Raymond S Norton
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Peter J Prentis
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
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17
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Wang Y, Hurley A, De Giorgi M, Tanner MR, Hu RC, Pennington MW, Lagor WR, Beeton C. Adeno-Associated virus 8 delivers an immunomodulatory peptide to mouse liver more efficiently than to rat liver. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283996. [PMID: 37040361 PMCID: PMC10089316 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283996] [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: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting the Kv1.3 potassium channel has proven effective in reducing obesity and the severity of animal models of autoimmune disease. Stichodactyla toxin (ShK), isolated from the sea anemone Stichodactyla helianthus, is a potent blocker of Kv1.3. Several of its analogs are some of the most potent and selective blockers of this channel. However, like most biologics, ShK and its analogs require injections for their delivery, and repeated injections reduce patient compliance during the treatment of chronic diseases. We hypothesized that inducing the expression of an ShK analog by hepatocytes would remove the requirement for frequent injections and lead to a sustained level of Kv1.3 blocker in the circulation. To this goal, we tested the ability of Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV)8 vectors to target hepatocytes for expressing the ShK analog, ShK-235 (AAV-ShK-235) in rodents. We designed AAV8 vectors expressing the target transgene, ShK-235, or Enhanced Green fluorescent protein (EGFP). Transduction of mouse livers led to the production of sufficient levels of functional ShK-235 in the serum from AAV-ShK-235 single-injected mice to block Kv1.3 channels. However, AAV-ShK-235 therapy was not effective in reducing high-fat diet-induced obesity in mice. In addition, injection of even high doses of AAV8-ShK-235 to rats resulted in a very low liver transduction efficiency and failed to reduce inflammation in a well-established rat model of delayed-type hypersensitivity. In conclusion, the AAV8-based delivery of ShK-235 was highly effective in inducing the secretion of functional Kv1.3-blocking peptide in mouse, but not rat, hepatocytes yet did not reduce obesity in mice fed a high-fat diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Wang
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Ayrea Hurley
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Marco De Giorgi
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Mark R. Tanner
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Rong-Chi Hu
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | | | - William R. Lagor
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Christine Beeton
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
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18
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Mazzi Esquinca ME, Correa CN, Marques de Barros G, Montenegro H, Mantovani de Castro L. Multiomic Approach for Bioprospection: Investigation of Toxins and Peptides of Brazilian Sea Anemone Bunodosoma caissarum. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:md21030197. [PMID: 36976246 PMCID: PMC10058367 DOI: 10.3390/md21030197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sea anemones are sessile invertebrates of the phylum Cnidaria and their survival and evolutive success are highly related to the ability to produce and quickly inoculate venom, with the presence of potent toxins. In this study, a multi-omics approach was applied to characterize the protein composition of the tentacles and mucus of Bunodosoma caissarum, a species of sea anemone from the Brazilian coast. The tentacles transcriptome resulted in 23,444 annotated genes, of which 1% showed similarity with toxins or proteins related to toxin activity. In the proteome analysis, 430 polypeptides were consistently identified: 316 of them were more abundant in the tentacles while 114 were enriched in the mucus. Tentacle proteins were mostly enzymes, followed by DNA- and RNA-associated proteins, while in the mucus most proteins were toxins. In addition, peptidomics allowed the identification of large and small fragments of mature toxins, neuropeptides, and intracellular peptides. In conclusion, integrated omics identified previously unknown or uncharacterized genes in addition to 23 toxin-like proteins of therapeutic potential, improving the understanding of tentacle and mucus composition of sea anemones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eduarda Mazzi Esquinca
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Bioscience Institute, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Claudia Neves Correa
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Bioscience Institute, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil
- Biodiversity of Coastal Environments Postgraduate Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Bioscience Institute, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Marques de Barros
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Bioscience Institute, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil
- Biodiversity of Coastal Environments Postgraduate Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Bioscience Institute, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Leandro Mantovani de Castro
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Bioscience Institute, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil
- Biodiversity of Coastal Environments Postgraduate Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Bioscience Institute, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Sao Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil
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19
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Smith HL, Prentis PJ, Bryan SE, Norton RS, Broszczak DA. Acontia, a Specialised Defensive Structure, Has Low Venom Complexity in Calliactis polypus. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:218. [PMID: 36977109 PMCID: PMC10051995 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15030218] [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: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Phylum Cnidaria represents a unique group among venomous taxa, with its delivery system organised as individual organelles, known as nematocysts, heterogeneously distributed across morphological structures rather than packaged as a specialised organ. Acontia are packed with large nematocysts that are expelled from sea anemones during aggressive encounters with predatory species and are found in a limited number of species in the superfamily Metridioidea. Little is known about this specialised structure other than the commonly accepted hypothesis of its role in defence and a rudimentary understanding of its toxin content and activity. This study utilised previously published transcriptomic data and new proteomic analyses to expand this knowledge by identifying the venom profile of acontia in Calliactis polypus. Using mass spectrometry, we found limited toxin diversity in the proteome of acontia, with an abundance of a sodium channel toxin type I, and a novel toxin with two ShK-like domains. Additionally, genomic evidence suggests that the proposed novel toxin is ubiquitous across sea anemone lineages. Overall, the venom profile of acontia in Calliactis polypus and the novel toxin identified here provide the basis for future research to define the function of acontial toxins in sea anemones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayden L. Smith
- School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia
| | - Peter J. Prentis
- School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia
| | - Scott E. Bryan
- School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia
| | - Raymond S. Norton
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Daniel A. Broszczak
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia
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20
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Kumar A, Fitoussi N, Sanadhya P, Sichov N, Bucki P, Bornstein M, Belausuv E, Brown Miyara S. Two Candidate Meloidogyne javanica Effector Genes, MjShKT and MjPUT3: A Functional Investigation of Their Roles in Regulating Nematode Parasitism. MOLECULAR PLANT-MICROBE INTERACTIONS : MPMI 2023; 36:79-94. [PMID: 36324054 DOI: 10.1094/mpmi-10-22-0212-r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
During parasitism, root-knot nematode Meloidogyne spp. inject molecules termed effectors that have multifunctional roles in construction and maintenance of nematode feeding sites. As an outcome of transcriptomic analysis of Meloidogyne javanica, we identified and characterized two differentially expressed genes encoding the predicted proteins MjShKT, carrying a Stichodactyla toxin (ShKT) domain, and MjPUT3, carrying a ground-like domain, both expressed during nematode parasitism of the tomato plant. Fluorescence in-situ hybridization revealed expression of MjShKT and MjPUT3 in the dorsal esophageal glands, suggesting their injection into host cells. MjShKT expression was upregulated during the parasitic life stages, to a maximum at the mature female stage, whereas MjPUT3 expression increased in third- to fourth-stage juveniles. Subcellular in-planta localization of MjShKT and MjPUT3 using a fused fluorescence marker indicated MjShKT co-occurrence with the endoplasmic reticulum, the perinuclear endoplasmatic reticulum, and the Golgi organelle markers, while MjPUT3 localized, to some extent, within the endoplasmatic reticulum and was clearly observed within the nucleoplasm. MjShKT inhibited programmed cell death induced by overexpression of MAPKKKα and Gpa2/RBP-1. Overexpression of MjShKT in tomato hairy roots allowed an increase in nematode reproduction, as indicated by the high number of eggs produced on roots overexpressing MjShKT. Roots overexpressing MjPUT3 were characterized by enhanced root growth, with no effect on nematode development on those roots. Investigation of the two candidate effectors suggested that MjShKT is mainly involved in manipulating the plant effector-triggered immune response toward establishment and maintenance of active feeding sites, whereas MjPUT3 might modulate roots morphology in favor of nematode fitness in the host roots. [Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Kumar
- Department of Entomology, Nematology and Chemistry units, Agricultural Research Organization (ARO), Volcani Center, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
| | - Nathalia Fitoussi
- Department of Entomology, Nematology and Chemistry units, Agricultural Research Organization (ARO), Volcani Center, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
- Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, the Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Payal Sanadhya
- Department of Entomology, Nematology and Chemistry units, Agricultural Research Organization (ARO), Volcani Center, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
| | - Natalia Sichov
- Department of Entomology, Nematology and Chemistry units, Agricultural Research Organization (ARO), Volcani Center, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
| | - Patricia Bucki
- Department of Entomology, Nematology and Chemistry units, Agricultural Research Organization (ARO), Volcani Center, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
| | - Menachem Bornstein
- Department of Plant Pathology and Weed Research, ARO, Volcani Center, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
| | - Eduard Belausuv
- Department of Plant Sciences, ARO, Volcani Center, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
| | - Sigal Brown Miyara
- Department of Entomology, Nematology and Chemistry units, Agricultural Research Organization (ARO), Volcani Center, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
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21
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Gomis-Rüth FX, Stöcker W. Structural and evolutionary insights into astacin metallopeptidases. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 9:1080836. [PMID: 36685277 PMCID: PMC9848320 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.1080836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The astacins are a family of metallopeptidases (MPs) that has been extensively described from animals. They are multidomain extracellular proteins, which have a conserved core architecture encompassing a signal peptide for secretion, a prodomain or prosegment and a zinc-dependent catalytic domain (CD). This constellation is found in the archetypal name-giving digestive enzyme astacin from the European crayfish Astacus astacus. Astacin catalytic domains span ∼200 residues and consist of two subdomains that flank an extended active-site cleft. They share several structural elements including a long zinc-binding consensus sequence (HEXXHXXGXXH) immediately followed by an EXXRXDRD motif, which features a family-specific glutamate. In addition, a downstream SIMHY-motif encompasses a "Met-turn" methionine and a zinc-binding tyrosine. The overall architecture and some structural features of astacin catalytic domains match those of other more distantly related MPs, which together constitute the metzincin clan of metallopeptidases. We further analysed the structures of PRO-, MAM, TRAF, CUB and EGF-like domains, and described their essential molecular determinants. In addition, we investigated the distribution of astacins across kingdoms and their phylogenetic origin. Through extensive sequence searches we found astacin CDs in > 25,000 sequences down the tree of life from humans beyond Metazoa, including Choanoflagellata, Filasterea and Ichtyosporea. We also found < 400 sequences scattered across non-holozoan eukaryotes including some fungi and one virus, as well as in selected taxa of archaea and bacteria that are pathogens or colonizers of animal hosts, but not in plants. Overall, we propose that astacins originate in the root of Holozoa consistent with Darwinian descent and that the latter genes might be the result of horizontal gene transfer from holozoan donors.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Xavier Gomis-Rüth
- Proteolysis Laboratory, Department of Structural Biology, Molecular Biology Institute of Barcelona (IBMB), Higher Scientific Research Council (CSIC), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain,*Correspondence: F. Xavier Gomis-Rüth, ; Walter Stöcker,
| | - Walter Stöcker
- Institute of Molecular Physiology (IMP), Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz (JGU), Mainz, Germany,*Correspondence: F. Xavier Gomis-Rüth, ; Walter Stöcker,
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22
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Monastyrnaya MM, Kalina RS, Kozlovskaya EP. The Sea Anemone Neurotoxins Modulating Sodium Channels: An Insight at Structure and Functional Activity after Four Decades of Investigation. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 15:8. [PMID: 36668828 PMCID: PMC9863223 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15010008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Many human cardiovascular and neurological disorders (such as ischemia, epileptic seizures, traumatic brain injury, neuropathic pain, etc.) are associated with the abnormal functional activity of voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs/NaVs). Many natural toxins, including the sea anemone toxins (called neurotoxins), are an indispensable and promising tool in pharmacological researches. They have widely been carried out over the past three decades, in particular, in establishing different NaV subtypes functional properties and a specific role in various pathologies. Therefore, a large number of publications are currently dedicated to the search and study of the structure-functional relationships of new sea anemone natural neurotoxins-potential pharmacologically active compounds that specifically interact with various subtypes of voltage gated sodium channels as drug discovery targets. This review presents and summarizes some updated data on the structure-functional relationships of known sea anemone neurotoxins belonging to four structural types. The review also emphasizes the study of type 2 neurotoxins, produced by the tropical sea anemone Heteractis crispa, five structurally homologous and one unique double-stranded peptide that, due to the absence of a functionally significant Arg14 residue, loses toxicity but retains the ability to modulate several VGSCs subtypes.
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23
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Wai DCC, Naseem MU, Mocsár G, Babu Reddiar S, Pan Y, Csoti A, Hajdu P, Nowell C, Nicolazzo JA, Panyi G, Norton RS. Fluorescent Peptide Toxin for Selective Visualization of the Voltage-Gated Potassium Channel K V1.3. Bioconjug Chem 2022; 33:2197-2212. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.2c00436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy C. C. Wai
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria3052, Australia
| | - Muhammad Umair Naseem
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen4032, Hungary
| | - Gábor Mocsár
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen4032, Hungary
- Damjanovich Cell Analysis Core Facility, Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen4032, Hungary
| | - Sanjeevini Babu Reddiar
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria3052, Australia
| | - Yijun Pan
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria3052, Australia
| | - Agota Csoti
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen4032, Hungary
| | - Peter Hajdu
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen4032, Hungary
- Department of Dental Biochemistry, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Debrecen, Debrecen4032, Hungary
| | - Cameron Nowell
- Imaging, FACS and Analysis Core, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria3052, Australia
| | - Joseph A. Nicolazzo
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria3052, Australia
| | - Gyorgy Panyi
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen4032, Hungary
| | - Raymond S. Norton
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria3052, Australia
- ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria3052, Australia
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24
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Verdes A, Taboada S, Hamilton BR, Undheim EAB, Sonoda GG, Andrade SCS, Morato E, Isabel Marina A, Cárdenas CA, Riesgo A. Evolution, expression patterns and distribution of novel ribbon worm predatory and defensive toxins. Mol Biol Evol 2022; 39:6580756. [PMID: 35512366 PMCID: PMC9132205 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msac096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribbon worms are active predators that use an eversible proboscis to inject venom into their prey and defend themselves with toxic epidermal secretions. Previous work on nemertean venom has largely focused on just a few species and has not investigated the different predatory and defensive secretions in detail. Consequently, our understanding of the composition and evolution of ribbon worm venoms is still very limited. Here, we present a comparative study of nemertean venom combining RNA-seq differential gene expression analyses of venom-producing tissues, tandem mass spectrometry-based proteomics of toxic secretions, and mass spectrometry imaging of proboscis sections, to shed light onto the composition and evolution of predatory and defensive toxic secretions in Antarctonemertes valida. Our analyses reveal a wide diversity of putative defensive and predatory toxins with tissue-specific gene expression patterns and restricted distributions to the mucus and proboscis proteomes respectively, suggesting that ribbon worms produce distinct toxin cocktails for predation and defense. Our results also highlight the presence of numerous lineage-specific toxins, indicating that venom evolution is highly divergent across nemerteans, producing toxin cocktails that might be finely tuned to subdue different prey. Our data also suggest that the hoplonemertean proboscis is a highly specialized predatory organ that seems to be involved in a variety of biological functions besides predation, including secretion and sensory perception. Overall, our results advance our knowledge into the diversity and evolution of nemertean venoms and highlight the importance of combining different types of data to characterize toxin composition in understudied venomous organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Verdes
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN), CSIC, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - Sergi Taboada
- Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, London, UK.,Departament of Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Brett R Hamilton
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Eivind A B Undheim
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, PO Box 1066 Blindern, 0316 Oslo, Norway.,Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Gabriel G Sonoda
- Departmento de Genética e Biología Evolutiva, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sonia C S Andrade
- Departmento de Genética e Biología Evolutiva, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Esperanza Morato
- CBMSO Protein Chemistry Facility, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Isabel Marina
- CBMSO Protein Chemistry Facility, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - César A Cárdenas
- Departamento Científico, Instituto Antártico Chileno, Punta Arenas, Chile.,Millennium Institute Biodiversity of Antarctic and Subantarctic Ecosystems (BASE), Santiago, Chile
| | - Ana Riesgo
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN), CSIC, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, London, UK
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25
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Colom-Casasnovas A, Garay E, Cisneros-Mejorado A, Aguilar MB, Lazcano-Pérez F, Arellano RO, Sánchez-Rodríguez J. Sea anemone Bartholomea annulata venom inhibits voltage-gated Na+ channels and activates GABAA receptors from mammals. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5352. [PMID: 35354863 PMCID: PMC8967859 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09339-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxin production in nematocysts by Cnidaria phylum represents an important source of bioactive compounds. Using electrophysiology and, heterologous expression of mammalian ion channels in the Xenopus oocyte membrane, we identified two main effects produced by the sea anemone Bartholomea annulata venom. Nematocysts isolation and controlled discharge of their content, revealed that venom had potent effects on both voltage-dependent Na+ (Nav) channels and GABA type A channel receptors (GABAAR), two essential proteins in central nervous system signaling. Unlike many others sea anemone toxins, which slow the inactivation rate of Nav channels, B. annulata venom potently inhibited the neuronal action potential and the Na+ currents generated by distinct Nav channels opening, including human TTX-sensitive (hNav1.6) and TTX-insensitive Nav channels (hNav1.5). A second effect of B. annulata venom was an agonistic action on GABAAR that activated distinct receptors conformed by either α1β2γ2, α3β2γ1 or, ρ1 homomeric receptors. Since GABA was detected in venom samples by ELISA assay at low nanomolar range, it was excluded that GABA from nematocysts directly activated the GABAARs. This revealed that substances in B. annulata nematocysts generated at least two potent and novel effects on mammalian ion channels that are crucial for nervous system signaling.
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26
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sVmKTx, a transcriptome analysis-based synthetic peptide analogue of Vm24, inhibits Kv1.3 channels of human T cells with improved selectivity. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 199:115023. [PMID: 35358481 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Kv1.3 K+ channels play a central role in the regulation of T cell activation and Ca2+ signaling under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Peptide toxins targeting Kv1.3 have a significant therapeutic potential in the treatment of autoimmune diseases; thus, the discovery of new toxins is highly motivated. Based on the transcriptome analysis of the venom gland of V. mexicanus smithi a novel synthetic peptide, sVmKTx was generated, containing 36 amino acid residues. sVmKTx shows high sequence similarity to Vm24, a previously characterized peptide from the same species, but contains a Glu at position 32 as opposed to Lys32 in Vm24. Vm24 inhibits Kv1.3 with high affinity (Kd = 2.9 pM). However, it has limited selectivity (~1,500-fold) for Kv1.3 over hKv1.2, hKCa3.1, and mKv1.1. sVmKTx displays reduced Kv1.3 affinity (Kd = 770 pM) but increased selectivity for Kv1.3 over hKv1.2 (~9,000-fold) as compared to Vm24, other channels tested in the panel (hKCa3.1, hKv1.1, hKv1.4, hKv1.5, rKv2.1, hKv11.1, hKCa1.1, hNav1.5) were practically insensitive to the toxin at 2.5 μM. Molecular dynamics simulations showed that introduction of a Glu instead of Lys at position 32 led to a decreased structural fluctuation of the N-terminal segment of sVmKTx, which may explain its increased selectivity for Kv1.3. sVmKTx at 100 nM concentration decreased the expression level of the Ca2+ -dependent T cell activation marker, CD40 ligand. The high affinity block of Kv1.3 and increased selectivity over the natural peptide makes sVmKTx a potential candidate for Kv1.3 blockade-mediated treatment of autoimmune diseases.
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27
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Warrell DA, Rowan EG. Professor Alan Lang Harvey (1950-2020). Toxicon 2022; 211:1-5. [PMID: 35287026 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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28
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Menezes C, Thakur NL. Sea anemone venom: Ecological interactions and bioactive potential. Toxicon 2022; 208:31-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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29
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Levy S, Mass T. The Skeleton and Biomineralization Mechanism as Part of the Innate Immune System of Stony Corals. Front Immunol 2022; 13:850338. [PMID: 35281045 PMCID: PMC8913943 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.850338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Stony corals are among the most important calcifiers in the marine ecosystem as they form the coral reefs. Coral reefs have huge ecological importance as they constitute the most diverse marine ecosystem, providing a home to roughly a quarter of all marine species. In recent years, many studies have shed light on the mechanisms underlying the biomineralization processes in corals, as characterizing the calicoblast cell layer and genes involved in the formation of the calcium carbonate skeleton. In addition, considerable advancements have been made in the research field of coral immunity as characterizing genes involved in the immune response to pathogens and stressors, and the revealing of specialized immune cells, including their gene expression profile and phagocytosis capabilities. Yet, these two fields of corals research have never been integrated. Here, we discuss how the coral skeleton plays a role as the first line of defense. We integrate the knowledge from both fields and highlight genes and proteins that are related to biomineralization and might be involved in the innate immune response and help the coral deal with pathogens that penetrate its skeleton. In many organisms, the immune system has been tied to calcification. In humans, immune factors enhance ectopic calcification which causes severe diseases. Further investigation of coral immune genes which are involved in skeleton defense as well as in biomineralization might shed light on our understanding of the correlation and the interaction of both processes as well as reveal novel comprehension of how immune factors enhance calcification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shani Levy
- Department of Marine Biology, Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Morris Kahn Marine Research Station, The Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa, Sdot Yam, Israel
- *Correspondence: Shani Levy, ; Tali Mass,
| | - Tali Mass
- Department of Marine Biology, Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Morris Kahn Marine Research Station, The Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa, Sdot Yam, Israel
- *Correspondence: Shani Levy, ; Tali Mass,
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30
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Moutinho Cabral I, Madeira C, Grosso AR, Costa PM. A drug discovery approach based on comparative transcriptomics between two toxin-secreting marine annelids: Glycera alba and Hediste diversicolor. Mol Omics 2022; 18:731-744. [DOI: 10.1039/d2mo00138a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
While Glycera alba secretes neurotoxins, Hediste diversicolor may secrete fewer toxins with a broader action. Transcriptomics and human interactome-directed analysis unraveled promising candidates for biomedical applications from either annelid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Moutinho Cabral
- Associate Laboratory i4HB – Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO – Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Carolina Madeira
- Associate Laboratory i4HB – Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO – Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Ana R. Grosso
- Associate Laboratory i4HB – Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO – Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Pedro M. Costa
- Associate Laboratory i4HB – Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO – Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
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31
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Cañas CA, Castaño-Valencia S, Castro-Herrera F. Pharmacological blockade of KV1.3 channel as a promising treatment in autoimmune diseases. J Transl Autoimmun 2022; 5:100146. [PMID: 35146402 PMCID: PMC8818563 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtauto.2022.100146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
There are more than 100 autoimmune diseases (AD), which have a high prevalence that ranges between 5% and 8% of the general population. Type I diabetes mellitus, multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis remain the health problem of highest concern among people worldwide due to its high morbidity and mortality. The development of new treatment strategies has become a research hotspot. In recent years, the study of the ion channels presents in the cells of the immune system, regarding their functional role, the consequences of mutations in their genes and the different ways of blocking them are the subject of intense research. Pharmacological blockade of KV1.3 channel inhibits Ca2+ signaling, T cell proliferation, and pro-inflammatory interleukins production in human CD4+ effector memory T cells. These cells mediated most of the AD and their inhibition is a promising therapeutic target. In this review, we will highlight the biological function of KV1.3 channel in T cells, consequence of the pharmacological inhibition (through anemone and scorpion toxins, synthetic peptides, nanoparticles, or monoclonal antibodies) as well as the possible therapeutical application in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A. Cañas
- Universidad Icesi, CIRAT, Centro de Investigación en Reumatología, Autoinmunidad y Medicina Traslacional, Cali, Colombia
- Unit of Rheumatology, Fundación Valle del Lili, Cali, Colombia
- Corresponding author. Rheumatology Unit, Fundación Valle del Lili, Cra. 98 18-49, Cali, 760032, Colombia.
| | - Santiago Castaño-Valencia
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Department of Health Sciences, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia
| | - Fernando Castro-Herrera
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Department of Health Sciences, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia
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Wang X, Liao Q, Chen H, Gong G, Siu SWI, Chen Q, Kam H, Ung COL, Cheung KK, Rádis-Baptista G, Wong CTT, Lee SMY. Toxic Peptide From Palythoa caribaeorum Acting on the TRPV1 Channel Prevents Pentylenetetrazol-Induced Epilepsy in Zebrafish Larvae. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:763089. [PMID: 34925021 PMCID: PMC8672801 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.763089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PcActx peptide, identified from the transcriptome of zoantharian Palythoa caribaeorum, was clustered into the phylogeny of analgesic polypeptides from sea anemone Heteractis crispa (known as APHC peptides). APHC peptides were considered as inhibitors of transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1). TRPV1 is a calcium-permeable channel expressed in epileptic brain areas, serving as a potential target for preventing epileptic seizures. Through in silico and in vitro analysis, PcActx peptide was shown to be a potential TRPV1 channel blocker. In vivo studies showed that the linear and oxidized PcActx peptides caused concentration-dependent increases in mortality of zebrafish larvae. However, monotreatment with PcActx peptides below the maximum tolerated doses (MTD) did not affect locomotor behavior. Moreover, PcActx peptides (both linear and oxidized forms) could effectively reverse pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced seizure-related behavior in zebrafish larvae and prevent overexpression of c-fos and npas4a at the mRNA level. The excessive production of ROS induced by PTZ was markedly attenuated by both linear and oxidized PcActx peptides. It was also verified that the oxidized PcActx peptide was more effective than the linear one. In particular, oxidized PcActx peptide notably modulated the mRNA expression of genes involved in calcium signaling and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic-glutamatergic signaling, including calb1, calb2, gabra1, grm1, gria1b, grin2b, gat1, slc1a2b, gad1b, and glsa. Taken together, PcActx peptide, as a novel neuroactive peptide, exhibits prominent anti-epileptic activity, probably through modulating calcium signaling and GABAergic-glutamatergic signaling, and is a promising candidate for epilepsy management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiufen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Qiwen Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China.,School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hanbin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Guiyi Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Shirley Weng In Siu
- Department of Computer and Information Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Qian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Hiotong Kam
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Carolina Oi Lam Ung
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Kwok-Kuen Cheung
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gandhi Rádis-Baptista
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Clarence Tsun Ting Wong
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Simon Ming-Yuen Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
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Nicolazzo JA, Pan Y, Di Stefano I, Choy KHC, Reddiar SB, Low YL, Wai DCC, Norton RS, Jin L. Blockade of Microglial Kv1.3 Potassium Channels by the Peptide HsTX1[R14A] Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-mediated Neuroinflammation. J Pharm Sci 2021; 111:638-647. [PMID: 34767826 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The expression of voltage-gated potassium Kv1.3 channels is increased in activated microglia, with non-selective blockade reported to attenuate microglial-mediated neuroinflammation. In this study, we evaluated the impact of a potent and selective peptidic blocker of Kv1.3 channels, HsTX1[R14A], on microglial-mediated neuroinflammation in vitro and in vivo. Treatment with both 0.1 and 1 µg/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS) significantly (p < 0.05) increased Kv1.3 abundance on the surface of BV-2 microglia in association with increased levels of mRNA for tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). The increased transcription of TNF-α and IL-6 was significantly attenuated (by 24.9 and 20.2%, respectively) by HsTX1[R14A] (100 nM). The concomitant increase in TNF-α and IL-6 release from BV-2 microglia was significantly attenuated by HsTX1[R14A] by 10.7 and 12.6%, respectively. In LPS-treated primary mouse microglia, the levels of TNF-α and nitric oxide were also attenuated by HsTX1[R14A] (26.1 and 20.4%, respectively). In an LPS-induced mouse model of neuroinflammation, both an immediate and delayed subcutaneous dose of HsTX1[R14A] (2 mg/kg) significantly reduced plasma and brain levels of the pro-inflammatory mediators TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, with no impact on the anti-inflammatory IL-10. These results demonstrate that HsTX1[R14A] is a promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment of diseases with a neuroinflammatory component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A Nicolazzo
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Yijun Pan
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Ilenia Di Stefano
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Kwok H C Choy
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Sanjeevini Babu Reddiar
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Yi Ling Low
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Dorothy C C Wai
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Raymond S Norton
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia; ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Liang Jin
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
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Fischer T, Riedl R. Paracelsus' legacy in the faunal realm: Drugs deriving from animal toxins. Drug Discov Today 2021; 27:567-575. [PMID: 34678490 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Given the vast number of venomous and poisonous animals, it is surprising that only relatively few animal-derived toxins have been explored and made their way into marketed drugs or are being investigated in ongoing clinical trials. In this review, we highlight marketed drugs deriving from animal toxins as well as ongoing clinical trials and preclinical investigations in the field. We emphasize that more attention should be paid to the rich supply of candidates that nature provides as valuable starting points for addressing serious unmet medical needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Fischer
- Center of Organic and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Zurich University of Applied Sciences ZHAW, Einsiedlerstrasse 31, 8820 Wädenswil, Switzerland
| | - Rainer Riedl
- Center of Organic and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Zurich University of Applied Sciences ZHAW, Einsiedlerstrasse 31, 8820 Wädenswil, Switzerland.
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35
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Sanches K, Wai DCC, Norton RS. Conformational dynamics in peptide toxins: Implications for receptor interactions and molecular design. Toxicon 2021; 201:127-140. [PMID: 34454969 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.08.020] [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: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Peptide toxins are potent and often exquisitely selective probes of the structure and function of ion channels and receptors, and are therefore of significant interest to the pharmaceutical and biotech industries as both pharmacological tools and therapeutic leads. The three-dimensional structures of peptide toxins are essential as a basis for understanding their structure-activity relationships and their binding to target receptors, as well as in guiding the design of analogues with modified potency and/or selectivity for key targets. NMR spectroscopy has played a key role in elucidating the structures of peptide toxins and probing their structure-function relationships. In this article, we highlight the additional important contribution of NMR to characterising the dynamics of peptide toxins. We also compare the information available from NMR measurements with that afforded by molecular dynamics simulations. We describe several examples of the importance of dynamics measurements over a range of timescales for understanding the structure-function relationships of peptide toxins and their receptor engagement. Peptide toxins that inhibit the voltage-gated potassium channel KV1.3 with pM affinities display different degrees of conformational flexibility, even though they contain multiple disulfide bonds, and this flexibility can affect the relative orientation of residues that have been shown to be critical for channel binding. Information on the dynamic properties of peptide toxins is important in the design of analogues or mimetics where receptor-bound structures are not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karoline Sanches
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia; ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Dorothy C C Wai
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Raymond S Norton
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia; ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
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36
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Skern-Mauritzen R, Malde K, Eichner C, Dondrup M, Furmanek T, Besnier F, Komisarczuk AZ, Nuhn M, Dalvin S, Edvardsen RB, Klages S, Huettel B, Stueber K, Grotmol S, Karlsbakk E, Kersey P, Leong JS, Glover KA, Reinhardt R, Lien S, Jonassen I, Koop BF, Nilsen F. The salmon louse genome: Copepod features and parasitic adaptations. Genomics 2021; 113:3666-3680. [PMID: 34403763 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Copepods encompass numerous ecological roles including parasites, detrivores and phytoplankton grazers. Nonetheless, copepod genome assemblies remain scarce. Lepeophtheirus salmonis is an economically and ecologically important ectoparasitic copepod found on salmonid fish. We present the 695.4 Mbp L. salmonis genome assembly containing ≈60% repetitive regions and 13,081 annotated protein-coding genes. The genome comprises 14 autosomes and a ZZ-ZW sex chromosome system. Assembly assessment identified 92.4% of the expected arthropod genes. Transcriptomics supported annotation and indicated a marked shift in gene expression after host attachment, including apparent downregulation of genes related to circadian rhythm coinciding with abandoning diurnal migration. The genome shows evolutionary signatures including loss of genes needed for peroxisome biogenesis, presence of numerous FNII domains, and an incomplete heme homeostasis pathway suggesting heme proteins to be obtained from the host. Despite repeated development of resistance against chemical treatments L. salmonis exhibits low numbers of many genes involved in detoxification.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ketil Malde
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway; Sea Lice Research Centre. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Thormøhlens Gate 53, 5006 Bergen, Norway
| | - Christiane Eichner
- Sea Lice Research Centre. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Thormøhlens Gate 53, 5006 Bergen, Norway
| | - Michael Dondrup
- Computational Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Thormøhlens Gate 55, 5008 Bergen, Norway
| | - Tomasz Furmanek
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Francois Besnier
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Anna Zofia Komisarczuk
- Sea Lice Research Centre. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Thormøhlens Gate 53, 5006 Bergen, Norway
| | - Michael Nuhn
- EMBL-The European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Sussie Dalvin
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Rolf B Edvardsen
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Sven Klages
- Sequencing Core Facility, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bruno Huettel
- Max Planck Genome Centre Cologne, Carl von Linné Weg 10, D-50829 Köln, Germany
| | - Kurt Stueber
- Max Planck Genome Centre Cologne, Carl von Linné Weg 10, D-50829 Köln, Germany
| | - Sindre Grotmol
- Sea Lice Research Centre. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Thormøhlens Gate 53, 5006 Bergen, Norway
| | - Egil Karlsbakk
- Sea Lice Research Centre. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Thormøhlens Gate 53, 5006 Bergen, Norway
| | - Paul Kersey
- EMBL-The European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SD, UK; Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AE, UK
| | - Jong S Leong
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8W 3N5, Canada
| | - Kevin A Glover
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway; Sea Lice Research Centre. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Thormøhlens Gate 53, 5006 Bergen, Norway
| | - Richard Reinhardt
- Max Planck Genome Centre Cologne, Carl von Linné Weg 10, D-50829 Köln, Germany
| | - Sigbjørn Lien
- Centre for Integrative Genetics (CIGENE), Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oluf Thesens vei 6, 1433 Ås, Norway
| | - Inge Jonassen
- Computational Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Thormøhlens Gate 55, 5008 Bergen, Norway
| | - Ben F Koop
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8W 3N5, Canada
| | - Frank Nilsen
- Institute of Marine Research, Postboks 1870 Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway; Sea Lice Research Centre. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Thormøhlens Gate 53, 5006 Bergen, Norway.
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37
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Mathie A, Veale EL, Golluscio A, Holden RG, Walsh Y. Pharmacological Approaches to Studying Potassium Channels. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2021; 267:83-111. [PMID: 34195873 DOI: 10.1007/164_2021_502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we consider the pharmacology of potassium channels from the perspective of these channels as therapeutic targets. Firstly, we describe the three main families of potassium channels in humans and disease states where they are implicated. Secondly, we describe the existing therapeutic agents which act on potassium channels and outline why these channels represent an under-exploited therapeutic target with potential for future drug development. Thirdly, we consider the evidence desired in order to embark on a drug discovery programme targeting a particular potassium channel. We have chosen two "case studies": activators of the two-pore domain potassium (K2P) channel TREK-2 (K2P10.1), for the treatment of pain and inhibitors of the voltage-gated potassium channel KV1.3, for use in autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis. We describe the evidence base to suggest why these are viable therapeutic targets. Finally, we detail the main technical approaches available to characterise the pharmacology of potassium channels and identify novel regulatory compounds. We draw particular attention to the Comprehensive in vitro Proarrhythmia Assay initiative (CiPA, https://cipaproject.org ) project for cardiac safety, as an example of what might be both desirable and possible in the future, for ion channel regulator discovery projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair Mathie
- Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Kent, Kent, UK. .,Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Greenwich, London, UK. .,School of Engineering, Arts, Science and Technology, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, UK.
| | - Emma L Veale
- Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Kent, Kent, UK.,Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Greenwich, London, UK
| | - Alessia Golluscio
- Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Kent, Kent, UK.,Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Greenwich, London, UK
| | - Robyn G Holden
- Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Kent, Kent, UK.,Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Greenwich, London, UK
| | - Yvonne Walsh
- Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Kent, Kent, UK.,Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Greenwich, London, UK
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Gubič Š, Hendrickx LA, Toplak Ž, Sterle M, Peigneur S, Tomašič T, Pardo LA, Tytgat J, Zega A, Mašič LP. Discovery of K V 1.3 ion channel inhibitors: Medicinal chemistry approaches and challenges. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:2423-2473. [PMID: 33932253 PMCID: PMC8252768 DOI: 10.1002/med.21800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The KV 1.3 voltage-gated potassium ion channel is involved in many physiological processes both at the plasma membrane and in the mitochondria, chiefly in the immune and nervous systems. Therapeutic targeting KV 1.3 with specific peptides and small molecule inhibitors shows great potential for treating cancers and autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, type I diabetes mellitus, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and myasthenia gravis. However, no KV 1.3-targeted compounds have been approved for therapeutic use to date. This review focuses on the presentation of approaches for discovering new KV 1.3 peptide and small-molecule inhibitors, and strategies to improve the selectivity of active compounds toward KV 1.3. Selectivity of dalatazide (ShK-186), a synthetic derivate of the sea anemone toxin ShK, was achieved by chemical modification and has successfully reached clinical trials as a potential therapeutic for treating autoimmune diseases. Other peptides and small-molecule inhibitors are critically evaluated for their lead-like characteristics and potential for progression into clinical development. Some small-molecule inhibitors with well-defined structure-activity relationships have been optimized for selective delivery to mitochondria, and these offer therapeutic potential for the treatment of cancers. This overview of KV 1.3 inhibitors and methodologies is designed to provide a good starting point for drug discovery to identify novel effective KV 1.3 modulators against this target in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Špela Gubič
- Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of LjubljanaLjubljanaSlovenia
| | - Louise A. Hendrickx
- Toxicology and PharmacologyUniversity of Leuven, Campus GasthuisbergLeuvenBelgium
| | - Žan Toplak
- Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of LjubljanaLjubljanaSlovenia
| | - Maša Sterle
- Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of LjubljanaLjubljanaSlovenia
| | - Steve Peigneur
- Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of LjubljanaLjubljanaSlovenia
| | | | - Luis A. Pardo
- AG OncophysiologyMax‐Planck Institute for Experimental MedicineGöttingenGermany
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and PharmacologyUniversity of Leuven, Campus GasthuisbergLeuvenBelgium
| | - Anamarija Zega
- Faculty of PharmacyUniversity of LjubljanaLjubljanaSlovenia
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Smallwood TB, Navarro S, Cristofori-Armstrong B, Watkins TS, Tungatt K, Ryan RYM, Haigh OL, Lutzky VP, Mulvenna JP, Rosengren KJ, Loukas A, Miles JJ, Clark RJ. Synthetic hookworm-derived peptides are potent modulators of primary human immune cell function that protect against experimental colitis in vivo. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:100834. [PMID: 34051231 PMCID: PMC8239465 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of autoimmune diseases is on the rise globally. Currently, autoimmunity presents in over 100 different forms and affects around 9% of the world's population. Current treatments available for autoimmune diseases are inadequate, expensive, and tend to focus on symptom management rather than cure. Clinical trials have shown that live helminthic therapy can decrease chronic inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel disease and other gastrointestinal autoimmune inflammatory conditions. As an alternative and better controlled approach to live infection, we have identified and characterized two peptides, Acan1 and Nak1, from the excretory/secretory component of parasitic hookworms for their therapeutic activity on experimental colitis. We synthesized Acan1 and Nak1 peptides from the Ancylostoma caninum and Necator americanus hookworms and assessed their structures and protective properties in human cell-based assays and in a mouse model of acute colitis. Acan1 and Nak1 displayed anticolitic properties via significantly reducing weight loss and colon atrophy, edema, ulceration, and necrosis in 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid-exposed mice. These hookworm peptides prevented mucosal loss of goblet cells and preserved intestinal architecture. Acan1 upregulated genes responsible for the repair and restitution of ulcerated epithelium, whereas Nak1 downregulated genes responsible for epithelial cell migration and apoptotic cell signaling within the colon. These peptides were nontoxic and displayed key immunomodulatory functions in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells by suppressing CD4+ T cell proliferation and inhibiting IL-2 and TNF production. We conclude that Acan1 and Nak1 warrant further development as therapeutics for the treatment of autoimmunity, particularly gastrointestinal inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor B Smallwood
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, QLD, Australia
| | - Severine Navarro
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; The Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, QLD, Australia; Woolworths Centre for Child Nutrition Research, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, QLD, Australia
| | - Ben Cristofori-Armstrong
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, QLD, Australia
| | - Thomas S Watkins
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, The Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, QLD, Australia
| | - Katie Tungatt
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, The Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, QLD, Australia; Centre for Tropical Bioinformatics and Molecular Biology, James Cook University, QLD, Australia
| | - Rachael Y M Ryan
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; The Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, QLD, Australia; Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, The Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, QLD, Australia
| | - Oscar L Haigh
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Viviana P Lutzky
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jason P Mulvenna
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - K Johan Rosengren
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, QLD, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, The Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, QLD, Australia
| | - John J Miles
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; The Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, QLD, Australia; Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, The Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, QLD, Australia; Centre for Tropical Bioinformatics and Molecular Biology, James Cook University, QLD, Australia; Institute of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, University Hospital, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom.
| | - Richard J Clark
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, QLD, Australia.
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40
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Smallwood TB, Clark RJ. Advances in venom peptide drug discovery: where are we at and where are we heading? Expert Opin Drug Discov 2021; 16:1163-1173. [PMID: 33914674 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2021.1922386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Animal venoms are a complex mixture of bioactive molecules that have evolved over millions of years for prey capture and defense from predators. Venom consists of many different types of molecules, with disulfide-rich peptides being a major component in most venoms. The study of these potent and highly selective molecules has led to the development of venom-derived drugs for diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic pain. As technologies have improved, more bioactive peptides have been discovered from venomous animals. Many of these molecules may have applications as tools for understanding normal and disease physiology, therapeutics, cosmetics or in agriculture.Areas covered: This article reviews venom-derived drugs approved by the FDA and venom-derived peptides currently in development. It discusses the challenges faced by venom-derived peptide drugs during drug development and the future for venom-derived peptides.Expert opinion: New techniques such as toxin driven discovery are expanding the pipeline of venom-derived peptides. There are many venom-derived peptides currently in preclinical and clinical trials that would have remained undiscovered using traditional approaches. A renewed focus on venoms, with advances in technology, will broaden the diversity of venom-derived peptide therapeutics and expand our knowledge of their molecular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor B Smallwood
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Richard J Clark
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
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Unterweger AL, Jensen MØ, Giordanetto F, Jogini V, Rüschher A, Seuß M, Winkelmann P, Koletzko L, Shaw DE, Siebeck M, Gropp R, Beigel F, Aszodi A. Suppressing Kv1.3 Ion Channel Activity with a Novel Small Molecule Inhibitor Ameliorates Inflammation in a Humanised Mouse Model of Ulcerative Colitis. J Crohns Colitis 2021; 15:1943-1958. [PMID: 33891001 PMCID: PMC8575044 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjab078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The potassium channel Kv1.3 is a potentially attractive therapeutic target in T cell-mediated inflammatory diseases, as the activity of antigen-activated T cells is selectively impeded by Kv1.3 inhibition. In this study, we examined Kv1.3 as a potential therapeutic intervention point for ulcerative colitis [UC], and studied the efficacy of DES1, a small-molecule inhibitor of Kv1.3, in vitro and in vivo. METHODS Kv1.3 expression on T cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells [PBMCs] isolated from donors with and without UC was examined by flow cytometry. In biopsies from UC patients, Kv1.3-expressing CD4+ T cells were detected by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. In vitro, we determined the ability of DES1 to inhibit anti-CD3-driven activation of T cells. In vivo, the efficacy of DES1 was determined in a humanised mouse model of UC and compared with infliximab and tofacitinib in head-to-head studies. RESULTS Kv1.3 expression was elevated in PBMCs from UC patients and correlated with the prevalence of TH1 and TH2 T cells. Kv1.3 expression was also detected on T cells from biopsies of UC patients. In vitro, DES1 suppressed anti-CD3-driven activation of T cells in a concentration-dependent manner. In vivo, DES1 significantly ameliorated inflammation in the UC model and most effectively so when PBMCs from donors with higher levels of activated T cells were selected for reconstitution. The efficacy of DES1 was comparable to that of either infliximab or tofacitinib. CONCLUSION Inhibition of Kv1.3 [by DES1, for instance] appears to be a potential therapeutic intervention strategy for UC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Lena Unterweger
- Department of General, Visceral und Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Alena Rüschher
- Department of General, Visceral und Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Marietta Seuß
- Department of General, Visceral und Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Paula Winkelmann
- Department of General, Visceral und Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Leandra Koletzko
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMUMunich, Germany
| | - David E Shaw
- D. E. Shaw Research, New York, NY, USA,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Matthias Siebeck
- Department of General, Visceral und Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Roswitha Gropp
- Department of General, Visceral und Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital, LMU, Munich, Germany,Corresponding author: Roswitha Gropp, Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilian University Munich, Nussbaumstr. 20, 80336 Munich, Germany.
| | - Florian Beigel
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMUMunich, Germany
| | - Attila Aszodi
- Department of General, Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany’
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Abstract
In this method paper, we describe protocols for using membrane-tethered peptide toxins (T-toxins) to study the structure/function and biophysics of toxin-channel interactions with two-electrode voltage clamp (TEVC). Here, we show how T-toxins can be used to determine toxin equilibrium affinity, to quantify toxin surface level by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and/or single-molecule total internal reflection fluorescence (smTIRF) microscopy, to assess toxin association and dissociations rate, to identify toxin residues critical to binding via scanning mutagenesis, and to study of toxin blocking mechanism. The sea anemone type I (SAK1) toxin HmK and a potassium channel are used to demonstrate the strategies. T-toxins offer experimental flexibility that facilitates studies of toxin variants by mutation of the expression plasmid, avoiding the need to synthesize and purify individual peptides, speeding and reducing the cost of studies. T-toxins can be applied to peptide toxins that target pores or regulatory domains, that inhibit or activate, that are derived from different species, and that bind to different types of ion channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiming Zhao
- Departments of Pediatrics, Physiology & Biophysics, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Susan and Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Steve A N Goldstein
- Departments of Pediatrics, Physiology & Biophysics, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Susan and Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States.
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Coulter-Parkhill A, McClean S, Gault VA, Irwin N. Therapeutic Potential of Peptides Derived from Animal Venoms: Current Views and Emerging Drugs for Diabetes. Clin Med Insights Endocrinol Diabetes 2021; 14:11795514211006071. [PMID: 34621137 PMCID: PMC8491154 DOI: 10.1177/11795514211006071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of venom-derived drugs is evident today. Currently, several significant drugs are FDA approved for human use that descend directly from animal venom products, with others having undergone, or progressing through, clinical trials. In addition, there is growing awareness of the important cosmeceutical application of venom-derived products. The success of venom-derived compounds is linked to their increased bioactivity, specificity and stability when compared to synthetically engineered compounds. This review highlights advancements in venom-derived compounds for the treatment of diabetes and related disorders. Exendin-4, originating from the saliva of Gila monster lizard, represents proof-of-concept for this drug discovery pathway in diabetes. More recent evidence emphasises the potential of venom-derived compounds from bees, cone snails, sea anemones, scorpions, snakes and spiders to effectively manage glycaemic control. Such compounds could represent exciting exploitable scaffolds for future drug discovery in diabetes, as well as providing tools to allow for a better understanding of cell signalling pathways linked to insulin secretion and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Victor A Gault
- Diabetes Research Group, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Nigel Irwin
- Diabetes Research Group, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
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Kunitz-Type Peptides from the Sea Anemone Heteractis crispa Demonstrate Potassium Channel Blocking and Anti-Inflammatory Activities. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8110473. [PMID: 33158163 PMCID: PMC7694175 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8110473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The Kunitz/BPTI peptide family includes unique representatives demonstrating various biological activities. Electrophysiological screening of peptides HCRG1 and HCRG2 from the sea anemone Heteractis crispa on six Kv1.x channel isoforms and insect Shaker IR channel expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes revealed their potassium channels blocking activity. HCRG1 and HCRG2 appear to be the first Kunitz-type peptides from sea anemones blocking Kv1.3 with IC50 of 40.7 and 29.7 nM, respectively. In addition, peptides mainly vary in binding affinity to the Kv1.2 channels. It was established that the single substitution, Ser5Leu, in the TRPV1 channel antagonist, HCRG21, induces weak blocking activity of Kv1.1, Kv1.2, and Kv1.3. Apparently, for the affinity and selectivity of Kunitz-fold toxins to Kv1.x isoforms, the number and distribution along their molecules of charged, hydrophobic, and polar uncharged residues, as well as the nature of the channel residue at position 379 (Tyr, Val or His) are important. Testing the compounds in a model of acute local inflammation induced by the introduction of carrageenan administration into mice paws revealed that HCRG1 at doses of 0.1–1 mg/kg reduced the volume of developing edema during 24 h, similar to the effect of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, indomethacin, at a dose of 5 mg/kg. ELISA analysis of the animals blood showed that the peptide reduced the synthesis of TNF-α, a pro-inflammatory mediator playing a leading role in the development of edema in this model.
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Toxin-like neuropeptides in the sea anemone Nematostella unravel recruitment from the nervous system to venom. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:27481-27492. [PMID: 33060291 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2011120117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The sea anemone Nematostella vectensis (Anthozoa, Cnidaria) is a powerful model for characterizing the evolution of genes functioning in venom and nervous systems. Although venom has evolved independently numerous times in animals, the evolutionary origin of many toxins remains unknown. In this work, we pinpoint an ancestral gene giving rise to a new toxin and functionally characterize both genes in the same species. Thus, we report a case of protein recruitment from the cnidarian nervous to venom system. The ShK-like1 peptide has a ShKT cysteine motif, is lethal for fish larvae and packaged into nematocysts, the cnidarian venom-producing stinging capsules. Thus, ShK-like1 is a toxic venom component. Its paralog, ShK-like2, is a neuropeptide localized to neurons and is involved in development. Both peptides exhibit similarities in their functional activities: They provoke contraction in Nematostella polyps and are toxic to fish. Because ShK-like2 but not ShK-like1 is conserved throughout sea anemone phylogeny, we conclude that the two paralogs originated due to a Nematostella-specific duplication of a ShK-like2 ancestor, a neuropeptide-encoding gene, followed by diversification and partial functional specialization. ShK-like2 is represented by two gene isoforms controlled by alternative promoters conferring regulatory flexibility throughout development. Additionally, we characterized the expression patterns of four other peptides with structural similarities to studied venom components and revealed their unexpected neuronal localization. Thus, we employed genomics, transcriptomics, and functional approaches to reveal one venom component, five neuropeptides with two different cysteine motifs, and an evolutionary pathway from nervous to venom system in Cnidaria.
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Prolonged Plasma Exposure of the Kv1.3-Inhibitory Peptide HsTX1[R14A] by Subcutaneous Administration of a Poly(Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid) (PLGA) Microsphere Formulation. J Pharm Sci 2020; 110:1182-1188. [PMID: 33065128 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2020.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the impact of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microsphere formulations on in vitro release and in vivo plasma exposure of HsTX1[R14A], a potent inhibitor of the voltage-gated potassium channel Kv1.3, with potential to treat autoimmune conditions. Microspheres containing HsTX1[R14A] were prepared using different PLGA materials, including Resomer® RG502H, RG503H and PURASORB® PDLG 5004 (Purac). After assessing encapsulation efficiency and in vitro release, plasma concentrations of HsTX1[R14A] were quantified by LCMS/MS following subcutaneous administration of HsTX1[R14A]-loaded RG503H microspheres (15 mg/kg) or HsTX1[R14A] solution (4 mg/kg) to Sprague-Dawley rats. Microspheres prepared with Purac exhibited the greatest encapsulation efficiency (45.5 ± 2.4% (mean ± SD)) and RG502H the lowest (22.0 ± 6.4%). Release of HsTX1[R14A] was fastest in vitro for RG502H microspheres (maximum release at 31 days) and slowest for Purac (82 days). With a relatively rapid burst release of 20.0 ± 0.4% and a controlled release profile of up to 41 days, HsTX1[R14A]-loaded RG503H microspheres were selected for subcutaneous administration, resulting in detectable plasma concentrations for 11 days relative to 8 h following subcutaneous administration of HsTX1[R14A] solution. Therefore, subcutaneous administration of RG503H PLGA microspheres is a promising approach to be exploited for delivery of this immune modulator.
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D’Ambra I, Lauritano C. A Review of Toxins from Cnidaria. Mar Drugs 2020; 18:E507. [PMID: 33036158 PMCID: PMC7600780 DOI: 10.3390/md18100507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cnidarians have been known since ancient times for the painful stings they induce to humans. The effects of the stings range from skin irritation to cardiotoxicity and can result in death of human beings. The noxious effects of cnidarian venoms have stimulated the definition of their composition and their activity. Despite this interest, only a limited number of compounds extracted from cnidarian venoms have been identified and defined in detail. Venoms extracted from Anthozoa are likely the most studied, while venoms from Cubozoa attract research interests due to their lethal effects on humans. The investigation of cnidarian venoms has benefited in very recent times by the application of omics approaches. In this review, we propose an updated synopsis of the toxins identified in the venoms of the main classes of Cnidaria (Hydrozoa, Scyphozoa, Cubozoa, Staurozoa and Anthozoa). We have attempted to consider most of the available information, including a summary of the most recent results from omics and biotechnological studies, with the aim to define the state of the art in the field and provide a background for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella D’Ambra
- Integrative Marine Ecology Department, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
| | - Chiara Lauritano
- Marine Biotechnology Department, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy;
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48
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Klompen AML, Macrander J, Reitzel AM, Stampar SN. Transcriptomic Analysis of Four Cerianthid (Cnidaria, Ceriantharia) Venoms. Mar Drugs 2020; 18:md18080413. [PMID: 32764303 PMCID: PMC7460484 DOI: 10.3390/md18080413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tube anemones, or cerianthids, are a phylogenetically informative group of cnidarians with complex life histories, including a pelagic larval stage and tube-dwelling adult stage, both known to utilize venom in stinging-cell rich tentacles. Cnidarians are an entirely venomous group that utilize their proteinaceous-dominated toxins to capture prey and defend against predators, in addition to several other ecological functions, including intraspecific interactions. At present there are no studies describing the venom for any species within cerianthids. Given their unique development, ecology, and distinct phylogenetic-placement within Cnidaria, our objective is to evaluate the venom-like gene diversity of four species of cerianthids from newly collected transcriptomic data. We identified 525 venom-like genes between all four species. The venom-gene profile for each species was dominated by enzymatic protein and peptide families, which is consistent with previous findings in other cnidarian venoms. However, we found few toxins that are typical of sea anemones and corals, and furthermore, three of the four species express toxin-like genes closely related to potent pore-forming toxins in box jellyfish. Our study is the first to provide a survey of the putative venom composition of cerianthids and contributes to our general understanding of the diversity of cnidarian toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M. L. Klompen
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Ave., Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Jason Macrander
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28262, USA; (J.M.); (A.M.R.)
- Department of Biology, Florida Southern College, 111 Lake Hollingsworth, Drive Lakeland, FL 33801, USA
| | - Adam M. Reitzel
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28262, USA; (J.M.); (A.M.R.)
| | - Sérgio N. Stampar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista “Júlio de Mesquita Filho” (UNESP), FCL, Assis, SP 19806, Brazil;
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Tajti G, Wai DCC, Panyi G, Norton RS. The voltage-gated potassium channel K V1.3 as a therapeutic target for venom-derived peptides. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 181:114146. [PMID: 32653588 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The voltage-gated potassium channel KV1.3 is a well-established therapeutic target for a range of autoimmune diseases, in addition to being the site of action of many venom-derived peptides. Numerous studies have documented the efficacy of venom peptides that target KV1.3, in particular from sea anemones and scorpions, in animal models of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. Moreover, an analogue of the sea anemone peptide ShK (known as dalazatide) has successfully completed Phase 1 clinical trials in mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis. In this article we consider other potential therapeutic applications of inhibitors of KV1.3, including in inflammatory bowel disease and neuroinflammatory conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, as well as fibrotic diseases. We also summarise strategies for facilitating the entry of peptides to the central nervous system, given that this will be a pre-requisite for the treatment of most neuroinflammatory diseases. Venom-derived peptides that have been reported recently to target KV1.3 are also described. The increasing number of autoimmune and other conditions in which KV1.3 is upregulated and is therefore a potential therapeutic target, combined with the fact that many venom-derived peptides are potent inhibitors of KV1.3, suggests that venoms are likely to continue to serve as a rich source of new pharmacological tools and therapeutic leads targeting this channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabor Tajti
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Dorothy C C Wai
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Gyorgy Panyi
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
| | - Raymond S Norton
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.
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50
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Kang V, Lengerer B, Wattiez R, Flammang P. Molecular insights into the powerful mucus-based adhesion of limpets ( Patella vulgata L.). Open Biol 2020; 10:200019. [PMID: 32543352 PMCID: PMC7333891 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Limpets (Patella vulgata L.) are renowned for their powerful attachments to rocks on wave-swept seashores. Unlike adult barnacles and mussels, limpets do not adhere permanently; instead, they repeatedly transition between long-term adhesion and locomotive adhesion depending on the tide. Recent studies on the adhesive secretions (bio-adhesives) of marine invertebrates have expanded our knowledge on the composition and function of temporary and permanent bio-adhesives. In comparison, our understanding of the limpets' transitory adhesion remains limited. In this study, we demonstrate that suction is not the primary attachment mechanism in P. vulgata; rather, they secrete specialized pedal mucus for glue-like adhesion. Through combined transcriptomics and proteomics, we identified 171 protein sequences from the pedal mucus. Several of these proteins contain conserved domains found in temporary bio-adhesives from sea stars, sea urchins, marine flatworms and sea anemones. Many of these proteins share homology with fibrous gel-forming glycoproteins, including fibrillin, hemolectin and SCO-spondin. Moreover, proteins with potential protein- and glycan-degrading domains could have an immune defence role or assist degrading adhesive mucus to facilitate the transition from stationary to locomotive states. We also discovered glycosylation patterns unique to the pedal mucus, indicating that specific sugars may be involved in transitory adhesion. Our findings elucidate the mechanisms underlying P. vulgata adhesion and provide opportunities for future studies on bio-adhesives that form strong attachments and resist degradation until necessary for locomotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Kang
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Birgit Lengerer
- Biology of Marine Organisms and Biomimetics Unit, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons 7000, Belgium
- Institute of Zoology, University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ruddy Wattiez
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Microbiology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons 7000, Belgium
| | - Patrick Flammang
- Biology of Marine Organisms and Biomimetics Unit, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons 7000, Belgium
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