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Liang Z, Wang J, Zhang H, Gao L, Xu J, Li P, Yang J, Fu X, Duan H, Liu J, Liu T, Ma W, Wu K. Peptide S4 is an entry inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Virology 2024; 597:110149. [PMID: 38917689 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2024.110149] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) poses a significant socioeconomic burden, and combating COVID-19 is imperative. Blocking the SARS-CoV-2 RBD-ACE2 interaction is a promising therapeutic approach for viral infections, as SARS-CoV-2 binds to the ACE2 receptors of host cells via the RBD of spike proteins to infiltrate these cells. We used computer-aided drug design technology and cellular experiments to screen for peptide S4 with high affinity and specificity for the human ACE2 receptor through structural analysis of SARS-CoV-2 and ACE2 interactions. Cellular experiments revealed that peptide S4 effectively inhibited SARS-CoV-2 and HCoV-NL63 viruses from infecting host cells and was safe for cells at effective concentrations. Based on these findings, peptide S4 may be a potential pharmaceutical agent for clinical application in the treatment of the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyu Liang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; Department of Microbiology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jiamei Wang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Guangdong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangdong, China
| | - Lixia Gao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jun Xu
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peiran Li
- Department of Microbiology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xinting Fu
- Department of Microbiology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Han Duan
- Department of Microbiology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jiayan Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; Institute of Antibody Engineering, School of Laboratory Medicine & Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tiancai Liu
- Institute of Antibody Engineering, School of Laboratory Medicine & Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weifeng Ma
- Department of Microbiology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
| | - Kun Wu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
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2
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Zhu Y, Gao Z, Feng X, Cheng L, Liu N, Liu C, Han S, Yang Q, Zou Q, Chong H, Zhang Z, Li M, Song G, He Y. Development of potent pan-coronavirus fusion inhibitors with a new design strategy. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e666. [PMID: 39070180 PMCID: PMC11283584 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Development of potent and broad-spectrum drugs against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) remains one of the top priorities, especially in the cases of the emergence of mutant viruses and inability of current vaccines to prevent viral transmission. In this study, we have generated a novel membrane fusion-inhibitory lipopeptide IPB29, which is currently under clinical trials; herein, we report its design strategy and preclinical data. First, we surprisingly found that IPB29 with a rigid linker between the peptide sequence and lipid molecule had greatly improved α-helical structure and antiviral activity. Second, IPB29 potently inhibited a large panel of SARS-CoV-2 variants including the previously and currently circulating viruses, such as Omicron XBB.5.1 and EG.5.1. Third, IPB29 could also cross-neutralize the bat- and pangolin-isolated SARS-CoV-2-related CoVs (RatG13, PCoV-GD, and PCoV-GX) and other human CoVs (SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, HCoV-NL63, and HCoV-229E). Fourth, IPB29 administrated as an inhalation solution (IPB29-IS) in Syrian hamsters exhibited high therapeutic and preventive efficacies against SARS-CoV-2 Delta or Omicron variant. Fifth, the pharmacokinetic profiles and safety pharmacology of IPB29-IS were extensively characterized, providing data to support its evaluation in humans. In conclusion, our studies have demonstrated a novel design strategy for viral fusion inhibitors and offered an ideal drug candidate against SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanmei Zhu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of PathogensNational Institute of Pathogen Biology and Center for AIDS ResearchChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Zhongcai Gao
- Research Institute of Youcare Pharmaceutical Group Co., LtdBeijingChina
| | - Xiaoli Feng
- Kunming National High‐level Biosafety Research Center for Non‐Human PrimatesCenter for Biosafety Mega‐ScienceKunming Institute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesKunmingYunnanChina
| | - Lin Cheng
- Institute of HepatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseaseShenzhen Third People's HospitalThe Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Nian Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of PathogensNational Institute of Pathogen Biology and Center for AIDS ResearchChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Chao Liu
- Research Institute of Youcare Pharmaceutical Group Co., LtdBeijingChina
| | - Shaowei Han
- Research Institute of Youcare Pharmaceutical Group Co., LtdBeijingChina
| | - Qiaojiang Yang
- Kunming National High‐level Biosafety Research Center for Non‐Human PrimatesCenter for Biosafety Mega‐ScienceKunming Institute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesKunmingYunnanChina
| | - Qingcui Zou
- Kunming National High‐level Biosafety Research Center for Non‐Human PrimatesCenter for Biosafety Mega‐ScienceKunming Institute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesKunmingYunnanChina
| | - Huihui Chong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of PathogensNational Institute of Pathogen Biology and Center for AIDS ResearchChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Institute of HepatologyNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseaseShenzhen Third People's HospitalThe Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Minghua Li
- Kunming National High‐level Biosafety Research Center for Non‐Human PrimatesCenter for Biosafety Mega‐ScienceKunming Institute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesKunmingYunnanChina
| | - Gengshen Song
- Research Institute of Youcare Pharmaceutical Group Co., LtdBeijingChina
| | - Yuxian He
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of PathogensNational Institute of Pathogen Biology and Center for AIDS ResearchChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
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3
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Chianese A, Giugliano R, Palma F, Nastri BM, Monti A, Doti N, Zannella C, Galdiero M, De Filippis A. The antiherpetic and anti-inflammatory activity of the frog-derived peptide Hylin-a1. J Appl Microbiol 2024; 135:lxae165. [PMID: 38991986 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxae165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
AIM The high incidence of virus-related infections and the large diffusion of drug-resistant pathogens stimulate the search and identification of new antiviral agents with a broad spectrum of action. Antivirals can be designed to act on a single target by interfering with a specific step in the viral lifecycle. On the contrary, antiviral peptides (AVPs) are known for acting on a wide range of viruses, with a diversified mechanism of action targeting virus and/or host cell. In the present study, we evaluated the antiviral potential of the peptide Hylin-a1 secreted by the frog Hypsiobas albopunctatus against members of the Herpesviridae family. METHODS AND RESULTS The inhibitory capacity of the peptide was evaluated in vitro by plaque assays in order to understand the possible mechanism of action. The results were also confirmed by real-time PCR and Western blot evaluating the expression of viral genes. Hylin-a1 acts to block the herpetic infection interfering at the early stages of both herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 infection. Its mechanism is mainly directed on the membrane, probably by damaging the viral envelope. The same effect was also observed against HSV-1 strains resistant to acyclovir. CONCLUSIONS The data presented in this study, such as the increased activity of the peptide when combined to acyclovir, a weak hemolytic profile, an anti-inflammatory effect, and a tolerable half-life in serum, indicates Hylin-a1 as a novel antiherpetic molecule with promising potential in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Chianese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Vico De Crecchio, 7, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Rosa Giugliano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Vico De Crecchio, 7, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Francesca Palma
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Vico De Crecchio, 7, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Bianca M Nastri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Vico De Crecchio, 7, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Alessandra Monti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Nunzianna Doti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Carla Zannella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Vico De Crecchio, 7, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Vico De Crecchio, 7, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Anna De Filippis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Vico De Crecchio, 7, Naples 80138, Italy
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4
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Li Y, Lu SM, Wang JL, Yao HP, Liang LG. Progress in SARS-CoV-2, diagnostic and clinical treatment of COVID-19. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33179. [PMID: 39021908 PMCID: PMC11253070 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Corona Virus Disease 2019(COVID-19)is a global pandemic novel coronavirus infection disease caused by Severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Although rapid, large-scale testing plays an important role in patient management and slowing the spread of the disease. However, there has been no good and widely used drug treatment for infection and transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Key findings Therefore, this review updates the body of knowledge on viral structure, infection routes, detection methods, and clinical treatment, with the aim of responding to the large-section caused by SARS-CoV-2. This paper focuses on the structure of SARS-CoV-2 viral protease, RNA polymerase, serine protease and main proteinase-like protease as well as targeted antiviral drugs. Conclusion In vitro or clinical trials have been carried out to provide deeper thinking for the pathogenesis, clinical diagnosis, vaccine development and treatment of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Si-Ming Lu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Clinical in Vitro Diagnostic Techniques, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Long Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hang-Ping Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li-Guo Liang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Centre for Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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5
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Bepler T, Barrera MD, Rooney MT, Xiong Y, Kuang H, Goodell E, Goodwin MJ, Harbron E, Fu R, Mihailescu M, Narayanan A, Cotten ML. Antiviral activity of the host defense peptide piscidin 1: investigating a membrane-mediated mode of action. Front Chem 2024; 12:1379192. [PMID: 38988727 PMCID: PMC11233706 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1379192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Outbreaks of viral diseases are on the rise, fueling the search for antiviral therapeutics that act on a broad range of viruses while remaining safe to human host cells. In this research, we leverage the finding that the plasma membranes of host cells and the lipid bilayers surrounding enveloped viruses differ in lipid composition. We feature Piscidin 1 (P1), a cationic host defense peptide (HDP) that has antimicrobial effects and membrane activity associated with its N-terminal region where a cluster of aromatic residues and copper-binding motif reside. While few HDPs have demonstrated antiviral activity, P1 acts in the micromolar range against several enveloped viruses that vary in envelope lipid composition. Notably, it inhibits HIV-1, a virus that has an envelope enriched in cholesterol, a lipid associated with higher membrane order and stability. Here, we first document through plaque assays that P1 boasts strong activity against SARS-CoV-2, which has an envelope low in cholesterol. Second, we extend previous studies done with homogeneous bilayers and devise cholesterol-containing zwitterionic membranes that contain the liquid disordered (Ld; low in cholesterol) and ordered (Lo, rich in cholesterol) phases. Using dye leakage assays and cryo-electron microscopy on vesicles, we show that P1 has dramatic permeabilizing capability on the Lo/Ld, an effect matched by a strong ability to aggregate, fuse, and thin the membranes. Differential scanning calorimetry and NMR experiments demonstrate that P1 mixes the lipid content of vesicles and alters the stability of the Lo. Structural studies by NMR indicate that P1 interacts with the Lo/Ld by folding into an α-helix that lies parallel to the membrane surface. Altogether, these results show that P1 is more disruptive to phase-separated than homogenous cholesterol-containing bilayers, suggesting an ability to target domain boundaries. Overall, this multi-faceted research highlights how a peptide that interacts strongly with membranes through an aromatic-rich N-terminal motif disrupt viral envelope mimics. This represents an important step towards the development of novel peptides with broad-spectrum antiviral activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Bepler
- New York Structural Biology Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Michael D. Barrera
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, United States
| | - Mary T. Rooney
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY, United States
| | - Yawei Xiong
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
| | - Huihui Kuang
- New York Structural Biology Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Evan Goodell
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
| | - Matthew J. Goodwin
- Department of Chemistry, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
| | - Elizabeth Harbron
- Department of Chemistry, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
| | - Riqiang Fu
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Mihaela Mihailescu
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Aarthi Narayanan
- Department of Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, United States
| | - Myriam L. Cotten
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
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6
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Han T, Song L, Niu X, Qiu M, Wang Y, Wang J, Sun X, Ma J, Hu S, Feng Z. Synergistic peptide combinations designed to suppress SARS-CoV-2. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30489. [PMID: 38726116 PMCID: PMC11079089 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2, responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, poses a significant threat to global healthcare. Peptide and peptide-based inhibitors, known for their safety, efficacy, and selectivity, have recently emerged as promising candidates for treating late-developing viral infections. In this study, three peptides were selected to target different stages of viral invasion, specifically ACE2 and S protein binding, as well as membrane fusion. The objective was to assess their ability to impede the entry of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike pseudotyped virus. Our findings revealed that a combination of these three peptides demonstrated enhanced antiviral effects. This outcome substantiates the feasibility of developing effective peptide combinations to combat diseases related to SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, the three-peptide combinations, designed to target multiple aspects of SARS-CoV-2 viral entry, exhibited heightened viral inhibition and broad-spectrum antiviral properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Han
- Department of Neonatology, Senior Department of Pediatrics, the Seventh Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, China
| | - Linhong Song
- Department of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery, Senior Department of Pediatrics, the Seventh Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, China
| | - Xinxin Niu
- Department of Organ Transplantation, the Third Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, China
| | - Meng Qiu
- Senior Department of Pediatrics, the Seventh Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Senior Department of Pediatrics, the Seventh Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Seventh Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, China
| | - Xiuyan Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Seventh Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, China
| | - Jiali Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Seventh Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, China
| | - Siqi Hu
- Institute of Pediatrics, Senior Department of Pediatrics, the Seventh Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, China
| | - Zhichun Feng
- Senior Department of Pediatrics, the Seventh Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, China
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7
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Tang J, Hu R, Liu Y, Liu J, Wang G, Lv J, Cheng L, He T, Liu Y, Shao PL, Zhang B. Deciphering ACE2-RBD binding affinity through peptide scanning: A molecular dynamics simulation approach. Comput Biol Med 2024; 173:108325. [PMID: 38513389 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.108325] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Rapid discovery of target information for protein-protein interactions (PPIs) is significant in drug design, diagnostics, vaccine development, antibody therapy, etc. Peptide microarray is an ideal tool for revealing epitope information of PPIs. In this work, the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike receptor-binding domain (RBD) and the host cell receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) were introduced as a model to study the epitope information of RBD-specific binding to ACE2 via a combination of theoretical calculations and experimental validation. Through dock and molecular dynamics simulations, it was found that among the 22 peptide fragments that consist of RBD, #14 (YNYLYRLFRKSNLKP) has the highest binding strength. Subsequently, the experiments of peptide microarray constructed based on plasmonic materials chip also confirmed the theoretical calculation data. Compared to other methods, such as phage display technology and surface plasmon resonance (SPR), this method is rapid and cost-effective, providing insights into the investigation of pathogen invasion processes and the timely development of peptide drugs and other fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahu Tang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology and the State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences & the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Ruibin Hu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Xianghu Laboratory, Hangzhou, 311231, China
| | - Yiyi Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Jingchao Liu
- Institute of Forestry and Pomology, Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin, 300384, China
| | - Guanghui Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Jiahui Lv
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Li Cheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Tingzhen He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Pan-Lin Shao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology and the State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences & the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
| | - Bo Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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8
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Wang H, Luo S, Xie M, Chen Z, Zhang Y, Xie Z, Zhang Y, Zhang Y, Yang L, Wu F, Chen X, Du G, Zhao J, Sun X. ACE2 Receptor-Targeted Inhaled Nanoemulsions Inhibit SARS-CoV-2 and Attenuate Inflammatory Responses. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2311537. [PMID: 38174591 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202311537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Three kinds of coronaviruses are highly pathogenic to humans, and two of them mainly infect humans through Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)receptors. Therefore, specifically blocking ACE2 binding at the interface with the receptor-binding domain is promising to achieve both preventive and therapeutic effects of coronaviruses. Alternatively, drug-targeted delivery based on ACE2 receptors can further improve the efficacy and safety of inhalation drugs. Here, these two approaches are innovatively combined by designing a nanoemulsion (NE) drug delivery system (termed NE-AYQ) for inhalation that targets binding to ACE2 receptors. This inhalation-delivered remdesivir nanoemulsion (termed RDSV-NE-AYQ) effectively inhibits the infection of target cells by both wild-type and mutant viruses. The RDSV-NE-AYQ strongly inhibits Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 at two dimensions: they not only block the binding of the virus to host cells at the cell surface but also restrict virus replication intracellularly. Furthermore, in the mouse model of acute lung injury, the inhaled drug delivery system loaded with anti-inflammatory drugs (TPCA-1-NE-AYQ) can significantly alleviate the lung tissue injury of mice. This smart combination provides a new choice for dealing with possible emergencies in the future and for the rapid development of inhaled drugs for the treatment of respiratory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hairui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Shuang Luo
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Mingxin Xie
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Zhao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510182, P. R. China
| | - Yunming Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Zhiqiang Xie
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yongshun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Lan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Fuhua Wu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Guangsheng Du
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Jincun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510182, P. R. China
| | - Xun Sun
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
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9
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Stewart J, Shawon J, Ali MA, Williams B, Shahinuzzaman ADA, Rupa SA, Al-Adhami T, Jia R, Bourque C, Faddis R, Stone K, Sufian MA, Islam R, McShan AC, Rahman KM, Halim MA. Antiviral peptides inhibiting the main protease of SARS-CoV-2 investigated by computational screening and in vitro protease assay. J Pept Sci 2024; 30:e3553. [PMID: 38031661 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3553] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
The main protease (Mpro) of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) plays an important role in viral replication and transcription and received great attention as a vital target for drug/peptide development. Therapeutic agents such as small-molecule drugs or peptides that interact with the Cys-His present in the catalytic site of Mpro are an efficient way to inhibit the protease. Although several emergency-approved vaccines showed good efficacy and drastically dropped the infection rate, evolving variants are still infecting and killing millions of people globally. While a small-molecule drug (Paxlovid) received emergency approval, small-molecule drugs have low target specificity and higher toxicity. Besides small-molecule drugs, peptide therapeutics are thus gaining increasing popularity as they are easy to synthesize and highly selective and have limited side effects. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic value of 67 peptides targeting Mpro using molecular docking. Subsequently, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were implemented on eight protein-peptide complexes to obtain molecular-level information on the interaction between these peptides and the Mpro active site, which revealed that temporin L, indolicidin, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) GP1 are the best candidates in terms of stability, interaction, and structural compactness. These peptides were synthesized using the solid-phase peptide synthesis protocol, purified by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC), and authenticated by mass spectrometry (MS). The in vitro fluorometric Mpro activity assay was used to validate the computational results, where temporin L and indolicidin were observed to be very active against SARS-CoV-2 Mpro with IC50 values of 38.80 and 87.23 μM, respectively. A liquid chromatography-MS (LC-MS) assay was developed, and the IC50 value of temporin L was measured at 23.8 μM. The solution-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) structure of temporin L was determined in the absence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) micelles and was compared to previous temporin structures. This combined investigation provides critical insights and assists us to further develop peptide inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro through structural guided investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Stewart
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Jakaria Shawon
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer-Aided Drug Design, The Red-Green Research Centre, BICCB, Tejgaon, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Ackas Ali
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Blaise Williams
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - A D A Shahinuzzaman
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Division, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Taha Al-Adhami
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ruoqing Jia
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Cole Bourque
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Ryan Faddis
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Kaylee Stone
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Md Abu Sufian
- School of Pharmacy, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rajib Islam
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer-Aided Drug Design, The Red-Green Research Centre, BICCB, Tejgaon, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Department of Chemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Andrew C McShan
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Khondaker Miraz Rahman
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Mohammad A Halim
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
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10
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Yathindranath V, Safa N, Tomczyk MM, Dolinsky V, Miller DW. Lipid Nanoparticle-Based Inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2 Host Cell Infection. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:3087-3108. [PMID: 38562613 PMCID: PMC10984206 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s448005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The global pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the lingering threat to public health has fueled the search for effective therapeutics to treat SARS-CoV-2. This study aimed to develop lipid nanoparticle (LNP) inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 entry to reduce viral infection in the nose and upper airway. Methods Two types of LNP formulations were prepared following a microfluidic mixing method. The LNP-Trap consisted of DOPC, DSPC, cholesterol, and DSPE-PEG-COOH modified with various spike protein binding ligands, including ACE2 peptide, recombinant human ACE2 (rhACE2) or monoclonal antibody to spike protein (mAb). The LNP-Trim consisted of ionizing cationic DLin-MC3-DMA, DSPC, cholesterol, and DMG-PEG lipids encapsulating siACE2 or siTMPRSS2. Both formulations were assayed for biocompatibility and cell uptake in airway epithelial cells (Calu-3). Functional assessment of activity was performed using SARS-CoV-2 spike protein binding assays (LNP-Trap), host receptor knockdown (LNP-Trim), and SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus neutralization assay (LNP-Trap and LNP-Trim). Localization and tissue distribution of fluorescently labeled LNP formulations were assessed in mice following intranasal administration. Results Both LNP formulations were biocompatible based on cell impedance and MTT cytotoxicity studies in Calu-3 cells at concentrations as high as 1 mg/mL. LNP-Trap formulations were able to bind spike protein and inhibit pseudovirus infection by 90% in Calu-3 cells. LNP-Trim formulations reduced ACE2 and TMPRSS2 at the mRNA (70% reduction) and protein level (50% reduction). The suppression of host targets in Calu-3 cells treated with LNP-Trim resulted in over 90% inhibition of pseudovirus infection. In vivo studies demonstrated substantial retention of LNP-Trap and LNP-Trim in the nasal cavity following nasal administration with minimal systemic exposure. Conclusion Both LNP-Trap and LNP-Trim formulations were able to safely and effectively inhibit SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviral infection in airway epithelial cells. These studies provide proof-of-principle for a localized treatment approach for SARS-CoV-2 in the upper airway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinith Yathindranath
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- PrairieNeuro Research Centre, Health Science Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Nura Safa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- PrairieNeuro Research Centre, Health Science Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Mateusz Marek Tomczyk
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Children’s Hospital Research Institute Manitoba, Health Science Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Vernon Dolinsky
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Children’s Hospital Research Institute Manitoba, Health Science Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Donald W Miller
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- PrairieNeuro Research Centre, Health Science Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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11
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Park KS, Park TI, Lee JE, Hwang SY, Choi A, Pack SP. Aptamers and Nanobodies as New Bioprobes for SARS-CoV-2 Diagnostic and Therapeutic System Applications. BIOSENSORS 2024; 14:146. [PMID: 38534253 DOI: 10.3390/bios14030146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
The global challenges posed by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic have underscored the critical importance of innovative and efficient control systems for addressing future pandemics. The most effective way to control the pandemic is to rapidly suppress the spread of the virus through early detection using a rapid, accurate, and easy-to-use diagnostic platform. In biosensors that use bioprobes, the binding affinity of molecular recognition elements (MREs) is the primary factor determining the dynamic range of the sensing platform. Furthermore, the sensitivity relies mainly on bioprobe quality with sufficient functionality. This comprehensive review investigates aptamers and nanobodies recently developed as advanced MREs for SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic and therapeutic applications. These bioprobes might be integrated into organic bioelectronic materials and devices, with promising enhanced sensitivity and specificity. This review offers valuable insights into advancing biosensing technologies for infectious disease diagnosis and treatment using aptamers and nanobodies as new bioprobes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Sung Park
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-In Park
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Eon Lee
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo-Yeong Hwang
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Anna Choi
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Pil Pack
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
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12
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Polo-Megías D, Cano-Muñoz M, Berruezo AG, Laumond G, Moog C, Conejero-Lara F. Investigating vulnerability of the conserved SARS-CoV-2 spike's heptad repeat 2 as target for fusion inhibitors using chimeric miniproteins. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 262:130132. [PMID: 38354919 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 membrane fusion is a highly desired target to combat COVID-19. The interaction between the spike's heptad repeat (HR) regions 1 (HR1) and 2 (HR2) is a crucial step during the fusion process and these highly conserved HR regions constitute attractive targets for fusion inhibitors. However, the relative importance of each subregion of the long HR1-HR2 interface for viral inhibition remains unclear. Here, we designed, produced, and characterized a series of chimeric miniproteins that mimic two different half subdomains of HR1. The proteins were designed as single polypeptide chains that spontaneously fold into antiparallel trimeric helical bundles aimed at structurally imitate the molecular surface of each HR1 half subregion. All the miniproteins folded stably as helical structures and could bind complementary HR2 peptides with moderate affinity. However, only the miniproteins mimicking the N-terminal HR1 half subdomain, but not those imitating C-terminal one, could inhibit cell infection by SARS-COV-2 real viruses in cell cultures. Most interestingly, the inhibitory activity of the miniproteins correlated with their structural stability, but not with their relative binding affinity for HR2 peptides. These results are highly relevant for designing more focused and active fusion inhibitors targeting the highly conserved HR2 region of the Spike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Polo-Megías
- Departamento de Química Física, Instituto de Biotecnología y Unidad de Excelencia de Química Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Mario Cano-Muñoz
- Departamento de Química Física, Instituto de Biotecnología y Unidad de Excelencia de Química Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Alberto G Berruezo
- Departamento de Química Física, Instituto de Biotecnología y Unidad de Excelencia de Química Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Géraldine Laumond
- Laboratoire d'ImmunoRhumatologie Moléculaire, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) UMR_S 1109, Institut Thématique Interdisciplinaire (ITI) de Médecine de Précision de Strasbourg, Transplantex NG, Faculté de Médecine, Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire OMICARE, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Christiane Moog
- Laboratoire d'ImmunoRhumatologie Moléculaire, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) UMR_S 1109, Institut Thématique Interdisciplinaire (ITI) de Médecine de Précision de Strasbourg, Transplantex NG, Faculté de Médecine, Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire OMICARE, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, F-67000 Strasbourg, France; Vaccine Research Institute (VRI), F-94000 Créteil, France
| | - Francisco Conejero-Lara
- Departamento de Química Física, Instituto de Biotecnología y Unidad de Excelencia de Química Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain.
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13
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Kong X, Wang W, Zhong Y, Wang N, Bai K, Wu Y, Qi Q, Zhang Y, Liu X, Xie J. Recent advances in the exploration and discovery of SARS-CoV-2 inhibitory peptides from edible animal proteins. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1346510. [PMID: 38389797 PMCID: PMC10883054 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1346510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is spreading worldwide. Although the COVID-19 epidemic has passed its peak of transmission, the harm it has caused deserves our attention. Scientists are striving to develop medications that can effectively treat COVID-19 symptoms without causing any adverse reactions. SARS-CoV-2 inhibitory peptides derived from animal proteins have a wide range of functional activities in addition to safety. Identifying animal protein sources is crucial to obtaining SARS-CoV-2 inhibitory peptides from animal sources. This review aims to reveal the mechanisms of action of these peptides on SARS-CoV-2 and the possibility of animal proteins as a material source of SARS-CoV-2 inhibitory peptides. Also, it introduces the utilization of computer-aided design methods, phage display, and drug delivery strategies in the research on SARS-CoV-2 inhibitor peptides from animal proteins. In order to identify new antiviral peptides and boost their efficiency, we recommend investigating the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 inhibitory peptides from animal protein sources and non-structural proteins (Nsps) using a variety of technologies, including computer-aided drug approaches, phage display techniques, and drug delivery techniques. This article provides useful information for the development of novel anti-COVID-19 drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyue Kong
- College of Food and Health, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou, China
- School of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- School of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yizhi Zhong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Nan Wang
- College of Biology and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kaiwen Bai
- School of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Wu
- School of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qianhui Qi
- School of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Institute of Quality and Standard for Agriculture Products, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Science, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xingquan Liu
- College of Food and Health, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junran Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Dodd-O J, Roy A, Siddiqui Z, Jafari R, Coppola F, Ramasamy S, Kolloli A, Kumar D, Kaundal S, Zhao B, Kumar R, Robang AS, Li J, Azizogli AR, Pai V, Acevedo-Jake A, Heffernan C, Lucas A, McShan AC, Paravastu AK, Prasad BVV, Subbian S, Král P, Kumar V. Antiviral fibrils of self-assembled peptides with tunable compositions. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1142. [PMID: 38326301 PMCID: PMC10850501 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45193-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The lasting threat of viral pandemics necessitates the development of tailorable first-response antivirals with specific but adaptive architectures for treatment of novel viral infections. Here, such an antiviral platform has been developed based on a mixture of hetero-peptides self-assembled into functionalized β-sheets capable of specific multivalent binding to viral protein complexes. One domain of each hetero-peptide is designed to specifically bind to certain viral proteins, while another domain self-assembles into fibrils with epitope binding characteristics determined by the types of peptides and their molar fractions. The self-assembled fibrils maintain enhanced binding to viral protein complexes and retain high resilience to viral mutations. This method is experimentally and computationally tested using short peptides that specifically bind to Spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2. This platform is efficacious, inexpensive, and stable with excellent tolerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Dodd-O
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
| | - Abhishek Roy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
| | - Zain Siddiqui
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
| | - Roya Jafari
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
| | - Francesco Coppola
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
| | - Santhamani Ramasamy
- Public Health Research Institute, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Afsal Kolloli
- Public Health Research Institute, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Dilip Kumar
- Department of Molecular Virology & Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Soni Kaundal
- Department of Molecular Virology & Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Boyang Zhao
- Department of Molecular Virology & Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Ranjeet Kumar
- Public Health Research Institute, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Alicia S Robang
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Jeffrey Li
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Abdul-Rahman Azizogli
- Department of Biological Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
| | - Varun Pai
- Department of Biological Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
| | - Amanda Acevedo-Jake
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
| | - Corey Heffernan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
- SAPHTx Inc, Newark, NJ, 07104, USA
| | - Alexandra Lucas
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics and Center for Immunotherapy Vaccines and Virotherapy, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, 727 E, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Andrew C McShan
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Anant K Paravastu
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - B V Venkataram Prasad
- Department of Molecular Virology & Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Selvakumar Subbian
- Public Health Research Institute, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Petr Král
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA.
- Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA.
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA.
| | - Vivek Kumar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA.
- Department of Biological Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA.
- SAPHTx Inc, Newark, NJ, 07104, USA.
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA.
- Department of Endodontics, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA.
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15
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Oduro-Kwateng E, Soliman ME. DON/DRP-104 as potent serine protease inhibitors implicated in SARS-CoV-2 infection: Comparative binding modes with human TMPRSS2 and novel therapeutic approach. J Cell Biochem 2024. [PMID: 38284235 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Human transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) is an important member of the type 2 transmembrane serine protease (TTSP) family with significant therapeutic markings. The search for potent TMPRSS2 inhibitors against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection with favorable tissue specificity and off-site toxicity profiles remains limited. Therefore, probing the anti-TMPRSS2 potential of enhanced drug delivery systems, such as nanotechnology and prodrug systems, has become compelling. We report the first in silico study of TMPRSS2 against a prodrug, [isopropyl(S)-2-((S)-2-acetamido-3-(1H-indol-3-yl)-propanamido)-6-diazo-5-oxo-hexanoate] also known as DRP-104 synthesized from 6-Diazo-5-oxo-l-norleucine (DON). We performed comparative studies on DON and DRP-104 against a clinically potent TMPRSS2 inhibitor, nafamostat, and a standard serine protease inhibitor, 4-(2-Aminoethyl) benzenesulfonyl fluoride (AEBSF) against TMPRSS2 and found improved TMPRSS2 inhibition through synergistic binding of the S1/S1' subdomains. Both DON and DRP-104 had better thermodynamic profiles than AEBSF and nafamostat. DON was found to confer structural stability with strong positive correlated inter-residue motions, whereas DRP-104 was found to confer kinetic stability with restricted residue displacements and reduced loop flexibility. Interestingly, the Scavenger Receptor Cysteine-Rich (SRCR) domain of TMPRSS2 may be involved in its inhibition mechanics. Two previously unidentified loops, designated X (270-275) and Y (293-296) underwent minimal and major structural transitions, respectively. In addition, residues 273-277 consistently transitioned to a turn conformation in all ligated systems, whereas unique transitions were identified for other transitioning residue groups in each TMPRSS2-inhibitor complex. Intriguingly, while both DON and DRP-104 showed similar loop transition patterns, DRP-104 preserved loop structural integrity. As evident from our systematic comparative study using experimentally/clinically validated inhibitors, DRP-104 may serve as a potent and novel TMPRSS2 inhibitor and warrants further clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Oduro-Kwateng
- School of Health Sciences, Molecular Bio-Computation and Drug Design Research Group, Westville Campus, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mahmoud E Soliman
- School of Health Sciences, Molecular Bio-Computation and Drug Design Research Group, Westville Campus, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
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16
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Zech F, Jung C, Jacob T, Kirchhoff F. Causes and Consequences of Coronavirus Spike Protein Variability. Viruses 2024; 16:177. [PMID: 38399953 PMCID: PMC10892391 DOI: 10.3390/v16020177] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses are a large family of enveloped RNA viruses found in numerous animal species. They are well known for their ability to cross species barriers and have been transmitted from bats or intermediate hosts to humans on several occasions. Four of the seven human coronaviruses (hCoVs) are responsible for approximately 20% of common colds (hCoV-229E, -NL63, -OC43, -HKU1). Two others (SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV) cause severe and frequently lethal respiratory syndromes but have only spread to very limited extents in the human population. In contrast the most recent human hCoV, SARS-CoV-2, while exhibiting intermediate pathogenicity, has a profound impact on public health due to its enormous spread. In this review, we discuss which initial features of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and subsequent adaptations to the new human host may have helped this pathogen to cause the COVID-19 pandemic. Our focus is on host forces driving changes in the Spike protein and their consequences for virus infectivity, pathogenicity, immune evasion and resistance to preventive or therapeutic agents. In addition, we briefly address the significance and perspectives of broad-spectrum therapeutics and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Zech
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Christoph Jung
- Institute of Electrochemistry, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.J.); (T.J.)
- Helmholtz-Institute Ulm (HIU) Electrochemical Energy Storage, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), 76021 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Timo Jacob
- Institute of Electrochemistry, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.J.); (T.J.)
- Helmholtz-Institute Ulm (HIU) Electrochemical Energy Storage, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), 76021 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Frank Kirchhoff
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany
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17
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Zhen S, Wang G, Li X, Yang J, Yu J, Wang Y. Discovering peptide inhibitors of thrombin as a strategy for anticoagulation. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e36849. [PMID: 38215083 PMCID: PMC10783423 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Unusual blood clots can cause serious health problems, such as lung embolism, stroke, and heart attack. Inhibiting thrombin activity was adopted as an effective strategy for preventing blood clots. In this study, we explored computational-based method for designing peptide inhibitors of human thrombin therapeutic peptides to prevent platelet aggregation. The random peptides and their 3-dimentional structures were generated to build a virtual peptide library. The generated peptides were docked into the binding pocket of human thrombin. The designed strong binding peptides were aligned with the native binder by comparative study, and we showed the top 5 peptide binders display strong binding affinity against human thrombin. The 5 peptides were synthesized and validated their inhibitory activity. Our result showed the 5-mer peptide AEGYA, EVVNQ, and FASRW with inhibitory activity against thrombin, range from 0.53 to 4.35 μM. In vitro anti-platelet aggregation assay was carried out, suggesting the 3 peptides can inhibit the platelet aggregation induced by thrombin. This study showed computer-aided peptide inhibitor design can be a robust method for finding potential binders for thrombin, which provided solutions for anticoagulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuxin Zhen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tangshan Gongren Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Guiping Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Tangshan Gongren Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Xiaoli Li
- Department of General Practice, Tangshan Gongren Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Tangshan Gongren Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Jiaxin Yu
- Department of Cardiology, Tangshan Gongren Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei, China
| | - Yucong Wang
- Department of Visual Communication Design, Gengdan Institute of Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
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18
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Wu A, Shi K, Wang J, Zhang R, Wang Y. Targeting SARS-CoV-2 entry processes: The promising potential and future of host-targeted small-molecule inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 263:115923. [PMID: 37981443 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has had a huge impact on global health. To respond to rapidly mutating viruses and to prepare for the next pandemic, there is an urgent need to develop small molecule therapies that target critical stages of the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle. Inhibiting the entry process of the virus can effectively control viral infection and play a role in prevention and treatment. Host factors involved in this process, such as ACE2, TMPRSS2, ADAM17, furin, PIKfyve, TPC2, CTSL, AAK1, V-ATPase, HSPG, and NRP1, have been found to be potentially good targets with stability. Through further exploration of the cell entry process of SARS-CoV-2, small-molecule drugs targeting these host factors have been developed. This review focuses on the structural functions of potential host cell targets during the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into host cells. The research progress, chemical structure, structure-activity relationship, and clinical value of small-molecule inhibitors against COVID-19 are reviewed to provide a reference for the development of small-molecule drugs against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aijia Wu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Kunyu Shi
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, China
| | - Jiaxing Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163, Tennessee, United States
| | - Ruofei Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yuxi Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, China.
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19
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Ao D, He X, Liu J, Xu L. Strategies for the development and approval of COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics in the post-pandemic period. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:466. [PMID: 38129394 PMCID: PMC10739883 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01724-w] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has resulted in significant casualties and put immense strain on public health systems worldwide, leading to economic recession and social unrest. In response, various prevention and control strategies have been implemented globally, including vaccine and drug development and the promotion of preventive measures. Implementing these strategies has effectively curbed the transmission of the virus, reduced infection rates, and gradually restored normal social and economic activities. However, the mutations of SARS-CoV-2 have led to inevitable infections and reinfections, and the number of deaths continues to rise. Therefore, there is still a need to improve existing prevention and control strategies, mainly focusing on developing novel vaccines and drugs, expediting medical authorization processes, and keeping epidemic surveillance. These measures are crucial to combat the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and achieve sustained, long-term prevention, management, and disease control. Here, we summarized the characteristics of existing COVID-19 vaccines and drugs and suggested potential future directions for their development. Furthermore, we discussed the COVID-19-related policies implemented over the past years and presented some strategies for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danyi Ao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuemei He
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
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20
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Loi LK, Yang CC, Lin YC, Su YF, Juan YC, Chen YH, Chang HC. Decoy peptides effectively inhibit the binding of SARS-CoV-2 to ACE2 on oral epithelial cells. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22614. [PMID: 38107325 PMCID: PMC10724569 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The entry of SARS-CoV-2 into host cells involves the interaction between the viral spike protein and the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. Given that the spike protein evolves rapidly to evade host immunity, therapeutics that block ACE2 accessibility, such as spike decoys, could serve as an alternative strategy for attenuating viral infection. Here, we constructed a drug screening platform based on oral epithelial cells to rapidly identify peptides or compounds capable of blocking the spike-ACE2 interaction. We engineered short decoy peptides, 8 to 14 amino acids in length, using the spike protein's receptor-binding motif (RBM) and demonstrated that these peptides can effectively inhibit virus attachment to host cells. Additionally, we discovered that diminazene aceturate (DIZE), an ACE2 activator, similarly inhibited virus binding. Our research thus validates the potential of decoy peptides as a new therapeutic strategy against SARS-CoV-2 infections, opening avenues for further development and study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lai-Keng Loi
- Department of Dentistry, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Chieh Yang
- Department of Dentistry, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Stomatology, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Cheng Lin
- Department of Dentistry, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yee-Fun Su
- iStat Biomedical Co., Ltd, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chen Juan
- iStat Biomedical Co., Ltd, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsin Chen
- Institute of Oral Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Chuan Chang
- Institute of Oral Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
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21
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Abhinand CS, Prabhakaran AA, Krishnamurthy A, Raju R, Keshava Prasad TS, Nair AS, Rajasekharan KN, Oommen OV, Sudhakaran PR. SARS-CoV-2 variants infectivity prediction and therapeutic peptide design using computational approaches. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:11166-11177. [PMID: 36572420 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2160819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The outbreak of severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has created a public health emergency globally. SARS-CoV-2 enters the human cell through the binding of the spike protein to human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. Significant changes have been reported in the mutational landscape of SARS-CoV-2 in the receptor binding domain (RBD) of S protein, subsequent to evolution of the pandemic. The present study examines the correlation between the binding affinity of mutated S-proteins and the rate of viral infectivity. For this, the binding affinity of SARS-CoV and variants of SARS-CoV-2 towards ACE2 was computationally determined. Subsequently, the RBD mutations were classified on the basis of the number of strains identified with respect to each mutation and the resulting variation in the binding affinity was computationally examined. The molecular docking studies indicated a significant correlation between the Z-Rank score of mutated S proteins and the rate of infectivity, suitable for predicting SARS-CoV-2 infectivity. Accordingly, a 30-mer peptide was designed and the inhibitory properties were computationally analyzed. Single amino acid-wise mutation was performed subsequently to identify the peptide with the highest binding affinity. Molecular dynamics and free energy calculations were then performed to examine the stability of the peptide-protein complexes. Additionally, selected peptides were synthesized and screened using a colorimetric assay. Together, this study developed a model to predict the rate of infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 variants and propose a potential peptide that can be used as an inhibitor for the viral entry to human.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandran S Abhinand
- Department of Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
| | - Athira A Prabhakaran
- Inter-University Centre for Genomics and Gene Technology, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | | | - Rajesh Raju
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
- Center for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
| | | | - Achuthsankar S Nair
- Department of Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | | | - Oommen V Oommen
- Department of Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | - Perumana R Sudhakaran
- Department of Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
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22
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Marković V, Shaik JB, Ożga K, Ciesiołkiewicz A, Lizandra Perez J, Rudzińska-Szostak E, Berlicki Ł. Peptide foldamer-based inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 S protein-human ACE2 interaction. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2023; 38:2244693. [PMID: 37605435 PMCID: PMC10446788 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2023.2244693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The entry of the SARS-CoV-2 virus into a human host cell begins with the interaction between the viral spike protein (S protein) and human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2). Therefore, a possible strategy for the treatment of this infection is based on inhibiting the interaction of the two abovementioned proteins. Compounds that bind to the SARS-CoV-2 S protein at the interface with the alpha-1/alpha-2 helices of ACE2 PD Subdomain I are of particular interest. We present a stepwise optimisation of helical peptide foldamers containing trans-2-aminocylopentanecarboxylic acid residues as the folding-inducing unit. Four rounds of optimisation led to the discovery of an 18-amino-acid peptide with high affinity for the SARS-CoV-2 S protein (Kd = 650 nM) that inhibits this protein-protein interaction with IC50 = 1.3 µM. Circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance studies indicated the helical conformation of this peptide in solution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violeta Marković
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Jeelan Basha Shaik
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Ożga
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Ciesiołkiewicz
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Juan Lizandra Perez
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Ewa Rudzińska-Szostak
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Łukasz Berlicki
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
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23
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Li Y, Liu T, Lai X, Xie H, Tang H, Wu S, Li Y. Rational design peptide inhibitors of Cyclophilin D as a potential treatment for acute pancreatitis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e36188. [PMID: 38050301 PMCID: PMC10695616 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclophilin D (CypD) is a mitochondrial matrix peptidyl prolidase that regulates the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Inhibition of CypD was suggested as a therapeutic strategy for acute pancreatitis. Peptide inhibitors emerged as novel binding ligand for blocking receptor activity. In this study, we present our computational approach for designing peptide inhibitors of CypD. The 3-D structure of random peptides were built, and docked into the active center of CypD using Rosetta script integrated FlexPepDock module. The peptide displayed the lowest binding energy against CypD was further selected for virtual iterative mutation based on virtual mutagenesis and molecular docking. Finally, the top 5 peptides with the lowest binding energy was selected for validating their affinity against CypD using inhibitory assay. We showed 4 out of the selected 5 peptides were capable for blocking the activity of CypD, while WACLQ display the strongest affinity against CypD, which reached 0.28 mM. The binding mechanism between WACLQ and CypD was characterized using molecular dynamics simulation. Here, we proved our approach can be a robust method for screening peptide inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuehong Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Longyan First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Longyan, China
| | - Ting Liu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Longyan First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Longyan, China
| | - Xiaoyan Lai
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Longyan First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Longyan, China
| | - Huifang Xie
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Longyan First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Longyan, China
| | - Heng Tang
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Synthesis of Zhejiang Province, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuangchan Wu
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xian, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Yongshun Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Longyan First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Longyan, China
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24
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Chan LC, Mat Yassim AS, Ahmad Fuaad AAH, Leow TC, Sabri S, Radin Yahaya RS, Abu Bakar AMS. Inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 3CL protease by the anti-viral chimeric protein RetroMAD1. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20178. [PMID: 37978223 PMCID: PMC10656507 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47511-z] [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: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 results from SARS-CoV-2, which mutates frequently, challenging current treatments. Therefore, it is critical to develop new therapeutic drugs against this disease. This study explores the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro and RetroMAD1, a well-characterized coronavirus protein and potential drug target, using in-silico methods. The analysis through the HDOCK server showed stable complex formation with a binding energy of -12.3, the lowest among reference drugs. The RetroMAD1-3CLpro complex underwent a 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) in an explicit solvation system, generating various trajectories, including RMSD, RMSF, hydrogen bonding, radius of gyration, and ligand binding energy. MDS results confirmed intact interactions within the RetroMAD1-3CLpro complex during simulations. In vitro experiments validated RetroMAD1's ability to inhibit 3CLpro enzyme activity and prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection in human bronchial cells. RetroMAD1 exhibited antiviral efficacy comparable to Remdesivir without cytotoxicity at effective concentrations. These results suggest RetroMAD1 as a potential drug candidate against SARS-CoV-2, warranting further in vivo and clinical studies to assess its efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee-Chin Chan
- Biovalence Sdn. Bhd., 22, Jalan SS 25/34, Taman Mayang, 47301, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
- Biovalence Technologies Pte. Ltd., #06-307 The Plaza, 7500A Beach Road, Singapore, 199591, Singapore
| | - Aini Syahida Mat Yassim
- Biovalence Sdn. Bhd., 22, Jalan SS 25/34, Taman Mayang, 47301, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
- Biovalence Technologies Pte. Ltd., #06-307 The Plaza, 7500A Beach Road, Singapore, 199591, Singapore.
- School of Health Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
| | - Abdullah Al Hadi Ahmad Fuaad
- Centre of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences in Self-Assembly (FSSA), Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Thean Chor Leow
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology Research Center, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Suriana Sabri
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology Research Center, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Radin Shafierul Radin Yahaya
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Awang Muhammad Sagaf Abu Bakar
- Jabatan Perkhidmatan Veterinar Sabah, Aras 3, Blok B, Wisma Pertanian Sabah, Jalan Tasik, Luyang (Off Jln Maktab Gaya), Beg Berkunci 2051, 88999, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.
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25
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Konkel R, Milewska A, Do NDT, Barreto Duran E, Szczepanski A, Plewka J, Wieczerzak E, Iliakopoulou S, Kaloudis T, Jochmans D, Neyts J, Pyrc K, Mazur-Marzec H. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of cyanopeptolins produced by Nostoc edaphicum CCNP1411. Antiviral Res 2023; 219:105731. [PMID: 37838220 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2023.105731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
Despite the advances in contemporary medicine and availability of numerous innovative therapies, effective treatment and prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infections pose a challenge. In the search for new anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug candidates, natural products are frequently explored. Here, fifteen cyanopeptolins (CPs) were isolated from the Baltic cyanobacterium Nostoc edaphicum and tested against SARS-CoV-2. Of these depsipeptides, the Arg-containing structural variants showed the strongest inhibition of the Delta SARS-CoV-2 infection in A549ACE2/TMPRSS2 cells. The functional assays indicated a direct interaction of the Arg-containing CP978 with the virions. CP978 also induced a significant decline in virus replication in the primary human airway epithelial cells (HAE). Of the four tested SARS-CoV-2 variants, Wuhan, Alpha, Omicron and Delta, only Wuhan was not affected by CP978. Finally, the analyses with application of confocal microscopy and with the SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviruses showed that CP978-mediated inhibition of viral infection results from the direct binding of the cyanopeptolin with the coronaviral S protein. Considering the potency of viral inhibition and the mode of action of CP978, the significance of the peptide as antiviral drug candidate should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Konkel
- Department of Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdańsk, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Milewska
- Virogenetics Laboratory of Virology, Małopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Nguyen Dan Thuc Do
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Emilia Barreto Duran
- Virogenetics Laboratory of Virology, Małopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Artur Szczepanski
- Virogenetics Laboratory of Virology, Małopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Jacek Plewka
- Virogenetics Laboratory of Virology, Małopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland; Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Ewa Wieczerzak
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Sofia Iliakopoulou
- Department of Sustainable Agriculture, University of Patras, Agrinio, Greece
| | - Triantafyllos Kaloudis
- Institute of Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, NCSR Demokritos, Agia Paraskevi, Greece; Laboratory of Organic Micropollutants, Water Quality Control Department, EYDAP SA, Menidi, Athens, Greece
| | - Dirk Jochmans
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Neyts
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Krzysztof Pyrc
- Virogenetics Laboratory of Virology, Małopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Hanna Mazur-Marzec
- Department of Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdańsk, Gdynia, Poland.
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26
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Boshah H, Samkari F, Valle-Pérez AU, Alsawaf SM, Aldoukhi AH, Bilalis P, Alshehri SA, Susapto HH, Hauser CAE. Evaluation of Potential Peptide-Based Inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2 and Variants of Concern. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:3892370. [PMID: 37869628 PMCID: PMC10589072 DOI: 10.1155/2023/3892370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has greatly affected all aspect of life. Although several vaccines and pharmaceuticals have been developed against SARS-CoV-2, the emergence of mutated variants has raised several concerns. The angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) receptor cell entry mechanism of this virus has not changed despite the vast mutation in emerging variants. Inhibiting the spike protein by which the virus identifies the host ACE2 receptor is a promising therapeutic countermeasure to keep pace with rapidly emerging variants. Here, we synthesized two ACE2-derived peptides, P1 and P25, to target and potentially inhibit SARS-CoV-2 cell entry. These peptides were evaluated in vitro using pseudoviruses that contained the SARS-CoV-2 original spike protein, the Delta-mutated spike protein, or the Omicron spike protein. An in silico investigation was also done for these peptides to evaluate the interaction of the synthesized peptides and the SARS-CoV-2 variants. The P25 peptide showed a promising inhibition potency against the tested pseudoviruses and an even higher inhibition against the Omicron variant. The IC50 of the Omicron variant was 60.8 μM, while the IC50s of the SARS-CoV-2 original strain and the Delta variant were 455.2 μM and 546.4 μM, respectively. The in silico experiments also showed that the amino acid composition design and structure of P25 boosted the interaction with the spike protein. These findings suggest that ACE2-derived peptides, such as P25, have the potential to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 cell entry in vitro. However, further in vivo studies are needed to confirm their therapeutic efficacy against emerging variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hattan Boshah
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- KAUST Smart Health Initiative (KSHI), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faris Samkari
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- KAUST Smart Health Initiative (KSHI), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alexander U. Valle-Pérez
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- KAUST Smart Health Initiative (KSHI), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah M. Alsawaf
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- KAUST Smart Health Initiative (KSHI), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali H. Aldoukhi
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- KAUST Smart Health Initiative (KSHI), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Panayiotis Bilalis
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- KAUST Smart Health Initiative (KSHI), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salwa A. Alshehri
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hepi H. Susapto
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Charlotte A. E. Hauser
- Laboratory for Nanomedicine, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- KAUST Smart Health Initiative (KSHI), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
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27
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Ho C, Nazarie WFWM, Lee PC. An In Silico Design of Peptides Targeting the S1/S2 Cleavage Site of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein. Viruses 2023; 15:1930. [PMID: 37766336 PMCID: PMC10536081 DOI: 10.3390/v15091930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, invades host cells via its spike protein, which includes critical binding regions, such as the receptor-binding domain (RBD), the S1/S2 cleavage site, the S2 cleavage site, and heptad-repeat (HR) sections. Peptides targeting the RBD and HR1 inhibit binding to host ACE2 receptors and the formation of the fusion core. Other peptides target proteases, such as TMPRSS2 and cathepsin L, to prevent the cleavage of the S protein. However, research has largely ignored peptides targeting the S1/S2 cleavage site. In this study, bioinformatics was used to investigate the binding of the S1/S2 cleavage site to host proteases, including furin, trypsin, TMPRSS2, matriptase, cathepsin B, and cathepsin L. Peptides targeting the S1/S2 site were designed by identifying binding residues. Peptides were docked to the S1/S2 site using HADDOCK (High-Ambiguity-Driven protein-protein DOCKing). Nine peptides with the lowest HADDOCK scores and strong binding affinities were selected, which was followed by molecular dynamics simulations (MDSs) for further investigation. Among these peptides, BR582 and BR599 stand out. They exhibited relatively high interaction energies with the S protein at -1004.769 ± 21.2 kJ/mol and -1040.334 ± 24.1 kJ/mol, respectively. It is noteworthy that the binding of these peptides to the S protein remained stable during the MDSs. In conclusion, this research highlights the potential of peptides targeting the S1/S2 cleavage site as a means to prevent SARS-CoV-2 from entering cells, and contributes to the development of therapeutic interventions against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chian Ho
- Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (C.H.); (W.F.W.M.N.)
| | - Wan Fahmi Wan Mohamad Nazarie
- Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (C.H.); (W.F.W.M.N.)
| | - Ping-Chin Lee
- Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (C.H.); (W.F.W.M.N.)
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia
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28
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Lin YJ, Sundhar N, Devi HS, Pien HF, Wen SFM, Sheu JL, Tsai BCK, Huang CY. Development and evaluation of a novel chromium III-based compound for potential inhibition of emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20011. [PMID: 37809843 PMCID: PMC10559739 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused 403 million cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and resulted in more than 5.7 million deaths worldwide. Extensive research has identified several potential drug treatments for COVID-19. However, the development of new compounds or therapies is necessary to prevent the emergence of drug resistance in SARS-CoV-2. In this study, a novel compound based on hexaacetotetraaquadihydroxochromium(III)diiron(III) nitrate, which contains small amounts of chromium (III), was synthesised and evaluated for its effectiveness against multiple variants of COVID-19 using both in vitro and in vivo models. This innovative compound demonstrated interference with the interaction between the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Furthermore, in vitro experiments showed that this compound downregulated the expression of ACE2 and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2). It also exhibited a reduction in the activity of 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CL) and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp). Pretreatment with this small chromium (III)-based compound resulted in reduced ACE2-rich cell infection by various variants of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein-pseudotyped lentivirus. Finally, the compound effectively inhibited viral infection by multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein-pseudotyped lentivirus in both the abdominal and thoracic regions of mice. In conclusion, this compound lowers the likelihood of SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells, inhibits viral maturation and replication in vitro, and reduces infection levels of multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein-pseudotyped lentivirus in the abdomen and thorax following pretreatment. Small chromium (III)-based compounds have the potential to restrict the progression of SARS-CoV-2 infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jung Lin
- Cardiovascular and Mitochondrial Related Disease Research Center, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Navaneethan Sundhar
- Cardiovascular and Mitochondrial Related Disease Research Center, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hema Sri Devi
- Cardiovascular and Mitochondrial Related Disease Research Center, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | - Bruce Chi-Kang Tsai
- Cardiovascular and Mitochondrial Related Disease Research Center, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yang Huang
- Cardiovascular and Mitochondrial Related Disease Research Center, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Center of General Education, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Tzu Chi University of Science and Technology, Hualien, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
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29
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Chenna A, Khan WH, Dash R, Saraswat S, Chugh A, Rathore AS, Goel G. An efficient computational protocol for template-based design of peptides that inhibit interactions involving SARS-CoV-2 proteins. Proteins 2023; 91:1222-1234. [PMID: 37283297 DOI: 10.1002/prot.26511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) complex of SARS-CoV-2 lies at the core of its replication and transcription processes. The interfaces between holo-RdRp subunits are highly conserved, facilitating the design of inhibitors with high affinity for the interaction interface hotspots. We, therefore, take this as a model protein complex for the application of a structural bioinformatics protocol to design peptides that inhibit RdRp complexation by preferential binding at the interface of its core subunit nonstructural protein, nsp12, with accessory factor nsp7. Here, the interaction hotspots of the nsp7-nsp12 subunit of RdRp, determined from a long molecular dynamics trajectory, are used as a template. A large library of peptide sequences constructed from multiple hotspot motifs of nsp12 is screened in-silico to determine sequences with high geometric complementarity and interaction specificity for the binding interface of nsp7 (target) in the complex. Two lead designed peptides are extensively characterized using orthogonal bioanalytical methods to determine their suitability for inhibition of RdRp complexation. Binding affinity of these peptides to accessory factor nsp7, determined using a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay, is slightly better than that of nsp12: dissociation constant of 133nM and 167nM, respectively, compared to 473nM for nsp12. A competitive ELISA is used to quantify inhibition of nsp7-nsp12 complexation, with one of the lead peptides giving an IC50 of 25μM . Cell penetrability and cytotoxicity are characterized using a cargo delivery assay and MTT cytotoxicity assay, respectively. Overall, this work presents a proof-of-concept of an approach for rational discovery of peptide inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 protein-protein interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Chenna
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Wajihul Hasan Khan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, India
- Virology Unit, Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Rozaleen Dash
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Saurabh Saraswat
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Archana Chugh
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Anurag S Rathore
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Gaurav Goel
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, India
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30
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Luz ABS, de Medeiros AF, Bezerra LL, Lima MSR, Pereira AS, E Silva EGO, Passos TS, Monteiro NDKV, Morais AHDA. Prospecting native and analogous peptides with anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential derived from the trypsin inhibitor purified from tamarind seeds. ARAB J CHEM 2023; 16:104886. [PMID: 37082195 PMCID: PMC10085871 DOI: 10.1016/j.arabjc.2023.104886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to prospect in silico native and analogous peptides with anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential derived from the trypsin inhibitor purified from tamarind seeds (TTIp). From the most stable theoretical model of TTIp (TTIp 56/287), in silico cleavage was performed for the theoretical identification of native peptides and generation of analogous peptides. The anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential was investigated through molecular dynamics (MD) simulation between the peptides and binding sites of transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), responsible for the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into the host cell. Five native and analogous peptides were obtained and validated through chemical and physical parameters. The best interaction potential energy (IPE) occurred between TMPRSS2 and one of the native peptides obtained by cleavage with trypsin and its analogous peptide. Thus, both peptides showed many hydrophobic residues, a common physical-chemical property among the peptides that inhibit the entry of enveloped viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, present in specific drugs to treat COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Beatriz Santana Luz
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Postgraduate Program, Biosciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN 59078970, Brazil
| | - Amanda Fernandes de Medeiros
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Postgraduate Program, Biosciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN 59078970, Brazil
| | - Lucas Lima Bezerra
- Chemistry Postgraduate Program, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE 60440900, Brazil
| | - Mayara Santa Rosa Lima
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Postgraduate Program, Biosciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN 59078970, Brazil
| | - Annemberg Salvino Pereira
- Nutrition Course, Center for Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN 59078900, Brazil
| | | | - Thais Souza Passos
- Nutrition Postgraduate Program, Center for Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN 59078900, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Heloneida de Araújo Morais
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Postgraduate Program, Biosciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN 59078970, Brazil
- Nutrition Postgraduate Program, Center for Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN 59078900, Brazil
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31
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Plichta J, Kuna P, Panek M. Biologic drugs in the treatment of chronic inflammatory pulmonary diseases: recent developments and future perspectives. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1207641. [PMID: 37334374 PMCID: PMC10272527 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1207641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory diseases of the lung are some of the leading causes of mortality and significant morbidity worldwide. Despite the tremendous burden these conditions put on global healthcare, treatment options for most of these diseases remain scarce. Inhaled corticosteroids and beta-adrenergic agonists, while effective for symptom control and widely available, are linked to severe and progressive side effects, affecting long-term patient compliance. Biologic drugs, in particular peptide inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies show promise as therapeutics for chronic pulmonary diseases. Peptide inhibitor-based treatments have already been proposed for a range of diseases, including infectious disease, cancers and even Alzheimer disease, while monoclonal antibodies have already been implemented as therapeutics for a range of conditions. Several biologic agents are currently being developed for the treatment of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary sarcoidosis. This article is a review of the biologics already employed in the treatment of chronic inflammatory pulmonary diseases and recent progress in the development of the most promising of those treatments, with particular focus on randomised clinical trial outcomes.
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32
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Siebert HC, Eckert T, Bhunia A, Klatte N, Mohri M, Siebert S, Kozarova A, Hudson JW, Zhang R, Zhang N, Li L, Gousias K, Kanakis D, Yan M, Jiménez-Barbero J, Kožár T, Nifantiev NE, Vollmer C, Brandenburger T, Kindgen-Milles D, Haak T, Petridis AK. Blood pH Analysis in Combination with Molecular Medical Tools in Relation to COVID-19 Symptoms. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051421. [PMID: 37239092 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The global outbreak of SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 provided the stage to accumulate an enormous biomedical data set and an opportunity as well as a challenge to test new concepts and strategies to combat the pandemic. New research and molecular medical protocols may be deployed in different scientific fields, e.g., glycobiology, nanopharmacology, or nanomedicine. We correlated clinical biomedical data derived from patients in intensive care units with structural biology and biophysical data from NMR and/or CAMM (computer-aided molecular modeling). Consequently, new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches against SARS-CoV-2 were evaluated. Specifically, we tested the suitability of incretin mimetics with one or two pH-sensitive amino acid residues as potential drugs to prevent or cure long-COVID symptoms. Blood pH values in correlation with temperature alterations in patient bodies were of clinical importance. The effects of biophysical parameters such as temperature and pH value variation in relation to physical-chemical membrane properties (e.g., glycosylation state, affinity of certain amino acid sequences to sialic acids as well as other carbohydrate residues and lipid structures) provided helpful hints in identifying a potential Achilles heel against long COVID. In silico CAMM methods and in vitro NMR experiments (including 31P NMR measurements) were applied to analyze the structural behavior of incretin mimetics and SARS-CoV fusion peptides interacting with dodecylphosphocholine (DPC) micelles. These supramolecular complexes were analyzed under physiological conditions by 1H and 31P NMR techniques. We were able to observe characteristic interaction states of incretin mimetics, SARS-CoV fusion peptides and DPC membranes. Novel interaction profiles (indicated, e.g., by 31P NMR signal splitting) were detected. Furthermore, we evaluated GM1 gangliosides and sialic acid-coated silica nanoparticles in complex with DPC micelles in order to create a simple virus host cell membrane model. This is a first step in exploring the structure-function relationship between the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and incretin mimetics with conserved pH-sensitive histidine residues in their carbohydrate recognition domains as found in galectins. The applied methods were effective in identifying peptide sequences as well as certain carbohydrate moieties with the potential to protect the blood-brain barrier (BBB). These clinically relevant observations on low blood pH values in fatal COVID-19 cases open routes for new therapeutic approaches, especially against long-COVID symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Christian Siebert
- RI-B-NT-Research Institute of Bioinformatics and Nanotechnology, Schauenburgerstr. 116, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Thomas Eckert
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, University of Applied Sciences Fresenius, Limburger Str. 2, 65510 Idstein, Germany
- RISCC-Research Institute for Scientific Computing and Consulting, Ludwig-Schunk-Str. 15, 35452 Heuchelheim, Germany
- Institut für Veterinärphysiologie und Biochemie, Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Justus-Liebig Universität Gießen, Frankfurter Str. 100, 35392 Gießen, Germany
| | - Anirban Bhunia
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, P-1/12 CIT Scheme VII (M), Kolkata 700054, India
| | - Nele Klatte
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, University of Applied Sciences Fresenius, Limburger Str. 2, 65510 Idstein, Germany
| | - Marzieh Mohri
- RI-B-NT-Research Institute of Bioinformatics and Nanotechnology, Schauenburgerstr. 116, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Simone Siebert
- RI-B-NT-Research Institute of Bioinformatics and Nanotechnology, Schauenburgerstr. 116, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Anna Kozarova
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON N9B 3P4, Canada
| | - John W Hudson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON N9B 3P4, Canada
| | - Ruiyan Zhang
- Institute of BioPharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Institute of BioPharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Lan Li
- Klinik für Neurochirurgie, Alfried Krupp Krankenhaus, Rüttenscheid, Alfried-Krupp-Straße 21, 45131 Essen, Germany
| | - Konstantinos Gousias
- Klinik für Neurochirurgie, Klinikum Lünen, St.-Marien-Hospital, Akad. Lehrkrankenhaus der Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, 44534 Lünen, Germany
| | - Dimitrios Kanakis
- Institute of Pathology, University of Nicosia Medical School, 2408 Egkomi, Cyprus
| | - Mingdi Yan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Lowell, 1 University Avenue, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
| | | | - Tibor Kožár
- Center for Interdisciplinary Biosciences, Technology and Innovation Park, P. J. Šafárik University, Jesenná 5, 04001 Košice, Slovakia
| | - Nikolay E Nifantiev
- Laboratory of Glycoconjugate Chemistry, N. D. Zelinsky Institute of Organic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospect 47, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Christian Vollmer
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Timo Brandenburger
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Detlef Kindgen-Milles
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Thomas Haak
- Diabetes Klinik Bad Mergentheim, Theodor-Klotzbücher-Str. 12, 97980 Bad Mergentheim, Germany
| | - Athanasios K Petridis
- Medical School, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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33
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Tian WJ, Wang XJ. Broad-Spectrum Antivirals Derived from Natural Products. Viruses 2023; 15:v15051100. [PMID: 37243186 DOI: 10.3390/v15051100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Scientific advances have led to the development and production of numerous vaccines and antiviral drugs, but viruses, including re-emerging and emerging viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, remain a major threat to human health. Many antiviral agents are rarely used in clinical treatment, however, because of their inefficacy and resistance. The toxicity of natural products may be lower, and some natural products have multiple targets, which means less resistance. Therefore, natural products may be an effective means to solve virus infection in the future. New techniques and ideas are currently being developed for the design and screening of antiviral drugs thanks to recent revelations about virus replication mechanisms and the advancement of molecular docking technology. This review will summarize recently discovered antiviral drugs, mechanisms of action, and screening and design strategies for novel antiviral agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jun Tian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xiao-Jia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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34
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Okada S, Muto Y, Zhu B, Ueda H, Nakamura H. Development of a Peptide Sensor Derived from Human ACE2 for Fluorescence Polarization Assays of the SARS-CoV-2 Receptor Binding Domain. Anal Chem 2023; 95:6198-6202. [PMID: 37028948 PMCID: PMC10107661 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c05818] [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: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the continuing emergence of infectious variants have caused a serious pandemic and a global economic slump since 2019. To overcome the situation and prepare for future pandemic-prone diseases, there is a need to establish a convenient diagnostic test that is quickly adaptable to unexpected emergence of virus variants. Here we report a fluorescent peptide sensor 26-Dan and its application to the fluorescence polarization (FP) assay for the highly sensitive and convenient detection of SARS-CoV-2. The 26-Dan sensor was developed by fluorescent labeling of the 26th amino acid of a peptide derived from the N-terminal α-helix of human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) receptor. The 26-Dan sensor maintained the α-helical structure and showed FP changes in a concentration-dependent manner of the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the virus. The half maximal effective concentrations (EC50's) for RBD of Wuhan-Hu-1 strain, Delta (B.1.617.2), and Omicron (BA.5) variants were 51, 5.2, and 2.2 nM, respectively, demonstrating that the 26-Dan-based FP assay can be adaptable to virus variants that evade standard diagnostic tests. The 26-Dan-based FP assay could also be applied to model screening of a small molecule that inhibits RBD binding to hACE2 and identified glycyrrhizin as a potential inhibitor. The combination of the sensor with a portable microfluidic fluorescence polarization analyzer allowed for the detection of RBD in a femtomolar range within 3 min, demonstrating the assay could be a promising step toward a rapid and convenient test for SARS-CoV-2 and other possible future pandemic-prone diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Okada
- Laboratory
for Chemistry and Life Science, Institute
of Innovative Research, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 226-8503, Japan
- School
of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute
of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho,
Midori-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 226-8503, Japan
| | - Yuka Muto
- School
of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute
of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho,
Midori-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 226-8503, Japan
| | - Bo Zhu
- Laboratory
for Chemistry and Life Science, Institute
of Innovative Research, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 226-8503, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ueda
- Laboratory
for Chemistry and Life Science, Institute
of Innovative Research, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 226-8503, Japan
- World
Research Hub Initiative, Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 226-8503, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Nakamura
- Laboratory
for Chemistry and Life Science, Institute
of Innovative Research, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 226-8503, Japan
- School
of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute
of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho,
Midori-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 226-8503, Japan
- World
Research Hub Initiative, Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 226-8503, Japan
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35
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Li B, Zhao Y, Wu X, Wu H, Tang W, Yu X, Mou J, Tan W, Jin M, Li W, Zhang Q, Liu M. Abiotic Synthetic Antibody Inhibitor with Broad-Spectrum Neutralization and Antiviral Efficacy against Escaping SARS-CoV-2 Variants. ACS NANO 2023; 17:7017-7034. [PMID: 36971310 PMCID: PMC10074723 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c02050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The rapid emergence and spread of vaccine/antibody-escaping variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has posed serious challenges to our efforts in combating corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. A potent and broad-spectrum neutralizing reagent against these escaping mutants is extremely important for the development of strategies for the prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We herein report an abiotic synthetic antibody inhibitor as a potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 therapeutic agent. The inhibitor, Aphe-NP14, was selected from a synthetic hydrogel polymer nanoparticle library created by incorporating monomers with functionalities complementary to key residues of the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein receptor binding domain (RBD) involved in human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) binding. It has high capacity, fast adsorption kinetics, strong affinity, and broad specificity in biologically relevant conditions to both the wild type and the current variants of concern, including Beta, Delta, and Omicron spike RBD. The Aphe-NP14 uptake of spike RBD results in strong blockage of spike RBD-ACE2 interaction and thus potent neutralization efficacy against these escaping spike protein variant pseudotyped viruses. It also inhibits live SARS-CoV-2 virus recognition, entry, replication, and infection in vitro and in vivo. The Aphe-NP14 intranasal administration is found to be safe due to its low in vitro and in vivo toxicity. These results establish a potential application of abiotic synthetic antibody inhibitors in the prevention and treatment of the infection of emerging or possibly future SARS-CoV-2 variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingxue Li
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and
Lower Reaches of Yangtse River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hubei Key
Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, State Environmental Protection
Key Laboratory of Soil Health and Green Remediation, College of Resources and Environment,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070,
China
| | - Ya Zhao
- National Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070,
China
| | - Xuefan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan
Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Haiyan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and
Lower Reaches of Yangtse River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hubei Key
Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, State Environmental Protection
Key Laboratory of Soil Health and Green Remediation, College of Resources and Environment,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070,
China
| | - Weicheng Tang
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and
Lower Reaches of Yangtse River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hubei Key
Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, State Environmental Protection
Key Laboratory of Soil Health and Green Remediation, College of Resources and Environment,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070,
China
| | - Xiaoyang Yu
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and
Lower Reaches of Yangtse River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hubei Key
Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, State Environmental Protection
Key Laboratory of Soil Health and Green Remediation, College of Resources and Environment,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070,
China
| | - Jianqiong Mou
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and
Lower Reaches of Yangtse River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hubei Key
Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, State Environmental Protection
Key Laboratory of Soil Health and Green Remediation, College of Resources and Environment,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070,
China
| | - Wenfeng Tan
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and
Lower Reaches of Yangtse River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hubei Key
Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, State Environmental Protection
Key Laboratory of Soil Health and Green Remediation, College of Resources and Environment,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070,
China
| | - Meilin Jin
- National Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070,
China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong
Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Key Laboratory of Development of Veterinary Diagnostic
Products, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan 430070,
China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan
Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070,
China
- College of Biomedicine and Health,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070,
China
- Hubei Jiangxia Laboratory,
Wuhan 430200, China
| | - Mingming Liu
- Key Laboratory of Arable Land Conservation (Middle and
Lower Reaches of Yangtse River), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hubei Key
Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, State Environmental Protection
Key Laboratory of Soil Health and Green Remediation, College of Resources and Environment,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070,
China
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Behbahanipour M, Benoit R, Navarro S, Ventura S. OligoBinders: Bioengineered Soluble Amyloid-like Nanoparticles to Bind and Neutralize SARS-CoV-2. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:11444-11457. [PMID: 36890692 PMCID: PMC9969896 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c18305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has become a primary health concern. Molecules that prevent viral entry into host cells by interfering with the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein and the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor (ACE2r) opened a promising avenue for virus neutralization. Here, we aimed to create a novel kind of nanoparticle that can neutralize SARS-CoV-2. To this purpose, we exploited a modular self-assembly strategy to engineer OligoBinders, soluble oligomeric nanoparticles decorated with two miniproteins previously described to bind to the S protein receptor binding domain (RBD) with high affinity. The multivalent nanostructures compete with the RBD-ACE2r interaction and neutralize SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particles (SC2-VLPs) with IC50 values in the pM range, preventing SC2-VLPs fusion with the membrane of ACE2r-expressing cells. Moreover, OligoBinders are biocompatible and significantly stable in plasma. Overall, we describe a novel protein-based nanotechnology that might find application in SARS-CoV-2 therapeutics and diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molood Behbahanipour
- Institut
de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina (IBB) and Departament de Bioquímica
i Biologia Molecular, Universitat Autònoma
de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roger Benoit
- Laboratory
of Nanoscale Biology, Division of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Susanna Navarro
- Institut
de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina (IBB) and Departament de Bioquímica
i Biologia Molecular, Universitat Autònoma
de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Salvador Ventura
- Institut
de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina (IBB) and Departament de Bioquímica
i Biologia Molecular, Universitat Autònoma
de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
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37
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Chaurasiya A, Shome A, Chawla PA. Molecular docking analysis of peptide-based antiviral agents against SARS-CoV-2 main protease: an approach towards drug repurposing. EXPLORATION OF MEDICINE 2023. [DOI: 10.37349/emed.2023.00123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim:
Utilizing the therapeutic potentials of previously approved medications against a new target or pharmacological response is known as drug repurposing. The health and scientific communities are under continual pressure to discover new compounds with antiviral potential due to the rising reports of viral resistance and the occurrence and re-emergence of viral outbreaks. The use of antiviral peptides has emerged as an intriguing option in this search. Here, this article includes the current United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved antiviral peptides that might be enforced for the treatment of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and carried out docking study of the viral protease inhibitors.
Methods:
In silico techniques like molecular docking was carried out using Autodock Vina software.
Results:
The molecular docking studies of peptide-based antiviral agents against SARS-CoV-2 [Protein Data Bank (PDB) ID: 7P35] using docking software AutoDockTools 1.5.6. Among all the docked ligands, compound velpatasvir showed interaction with residues ILE213, GLN256, LEU141, GLN189, GLU166, HIS41, CYS145, and ASN142, and displayed the highest docking score of –8.2 kcal/mol. This medication could be a novel treatment lead or candidate for treating SARS-CoV-2.
Conclusions:
To conclude, a docking study of peptide based antiviral compounds for their binding mode in the catalytic domain of SARS-CoV-2 receptor is reported. On molecular docking, the compounds have showed remarkable binding affinity with the amino acids of receptor chain A. The compounds occupied the same binding cavity as the reference compound maintaining the interactions with conserved amino acid residues essential for significant inhibitory potential, especially for compound velpatasvir with binding score of –8.2 kcal/mol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Chaurasiya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga 142001, India
| | - Abhimannu Shome
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga 142001, India
| | - Pooja A. Chawla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga 142001, India
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38
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Chen F, Chen Y, Ke Q, Wang Y, Gong Z, Chen X, Cai Y, Li S, Sun Y, Peng X, Ji Y, Zhang T, Wu W, Cui L, Wang Y. ApoE4 associated with severe COVID-19 outcomes via downregulation of ACE2 and imbalanced RAS pathway. J Transl Med 2023; 21:103. [PMID: 36759834 PMCID: PMC9910247 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-03945-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent numerous epidemiology and clinical association studies reported that ApoE polymorphism might be associated with the risk and severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and yielded inconsistent results. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection relies on its spike protein binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor expressed on host cell membranes. METHODS A meta-analysis was conducted to clarify the association between ApoE polymorphism and the risk and severity of COVID-19. Multiple protein interaction assays were utilized to investigate the potential molecular link between ApoE and the SARS-CoV-2 primary receptor ACE2, ApoE and spike protein. Immunoblotting and immunofluorescence staining methods were used to access the regulatory effect of different ApoE isoform on ACE2 protein expression. RESULTS ApoE gene polymorphism (ε4 carrier genotypes VS non-ε4 carrier genotypes) is associated with the increased risk (P = 0.0003, OR = 1.44, 95% CI 1.18-1.76) and progression (P < 0.00001, OR = 1.85, 95% CI 1.50-2.28) of COVID-19. ApoE interacts with both ACE2 and the spike protein but did not show isoform-dependent binding effects. ApoE4 significantly downregulates ACE2 protein expression in vitro and in vivo and subsequently decreases the conversion of Ang II to Ang 1-7. CONCLUSIONS ApoE4 increases SARS-CoV-2 infectivity in a manner that may not depend on differential interactions with the spike protein or ACE2. Instead, ApoE4 downregulates ACE2 protein expression and subsequently the dysregulation of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) may provide explanation by which ApoE4 exacerbates COVID-19 disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Chen
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China ,grid.419010.d0000 0004 1792 7072Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province Kunming Institute of Zoology Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan China
| | - Yanting Chen
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China ,grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Neurology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qiongwei Ke
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yongxiang Wang
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Zheng Gong
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Institute of Laboratory Animal Center, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Xiongjin Chen
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yujie Cai
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Shengnan Li
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yuanhong Sun
- grid.266871.c0000 0000 9765 6057Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX USA
| | - Xiaoping Peng
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yao Ji
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Tianzhen Zhang
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Wenxian Wu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China. .,Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China. .,Shenzhen Research Institute, Shandong University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Lili Cui
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China.
| | - Yan Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China.
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Liu M, Wang J, Wan X, Li B, Guan M, Ning X, Hu X, Li S, Liu S, Song G. Discovery and structural optimization of 3-O-β-Chacotriosyl betulonic acid saponins as potent fusion inhibitors of Omicron virus infections. Bioorg Chem 2023; 131:106316. [PMID: 36508939 PMCID: PMC9729598 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.106316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The recent global Omicron epidemics underscore the great need for the development of small molecule therapeutics with appropriate mechanisms. The trimeric spike protein (S) of SARS-CoV-2 plays a pivotal role in mediating viral entry into host cells. We continued our efforts to develop small-molecule SARS-CoV-2 entry inhibitors. In this work, two sets of BA derivatives were designed and synthesized based on the hit BA-1 that was identified as a novel SARS-CoV-2 entry inhibitor. Compound BA-4, the most potent one, showed broad inhibitory activities against pOmicron and other pseudotyped variants with EC50 values ranging 2.73 to 5.19 μM. Moreover, pSARS-CoV-2 assay, SPR analysis, Co-IP assay and the cell-cell fusion assay coupled with docking and mutagenesis studies revealed that BA-4 could stabilize S in the pre-fusion step to interfere with the membrane fusion, thereby displaying promising inhibition against Omicron entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingjian Liu
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jinshen Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xin Wan
- Huizhou Health Sciences Polytechnic, Huizhou 516025, China
| | - Baixi Li
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Mingming Guan
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xiaoyun Ning
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xiaojie Hu
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Sumei Li
- Department of Human anatomy, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
| | - Shuwen Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Institute of Nephrology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Gaopeng Song
- Key Laboratory for Biobased Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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40
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Tang M, Zhang X, Huang Y, Cheng W, Qu J, Gui S, Li L, Li S. Peptide-based inhibitors hold great promise as the broad-spectrum agents against coronavirus. Front Microbiol 2023; 13:1093646. [PMID: 36741878 PMCID: PMC9893414 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1093646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), and the recent SARS-CoV-2 are lethal coronaviruses (CoVs) that have caused dreadful epidemic or pandemic in a large region or globally. Infections of human respiratory systems and other important organs by these pathogenic viruses often results in high rates of morbidity and mortality. Efficient anti-viral drugs are needed. Herein, we firstly take SARS-CoV-2 as an example to present the molecular mechanism of CoV infection cycle, including the receptor binding, viral entry, intracellular replication, virion assembly, and release. Then according to their mode of action, we provide a summary of anti-viral peptides that have been reported in peer-reviewed publications. Even though CoVs can rapidly evolve to gain resistance to the conventional small molecule drugs, peptide-based inhibitors targeting various steps of CoV lifecycle remain a promising approach. Peptides can be continuously modified to improve their antiviral efficacy and spectrum along with the emergence of new viral variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxing Tang
- Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China,Department of Otolaryngology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China,School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yanhong Huang
- Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China,School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenxiang Cheng
- Center for Translational Medicine Research and Development, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Qu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuiqing Gui
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China,*Correspondence: Shuiqing Gui, ✉
| | - Liang Li
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China,Liang Li, ✉
| | - Shuo Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China,Shuo Li, ✉
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Liu X, Jiang L, Li L, Lu F, Liu F. Bionics design of affinity peptide inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2 RBD to block SARS-CoV-2 RBD-ACE2 interactions. Heliyon 2023; 9:e12890. [PMID: 36686609 PMCID: PMC9836997 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e12890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), has already posed serious threats and impacts on the health of the population and the country's economy. Therefore, it is of great theoretical significance and practical application value to better understand the process of COVID-19 infection and develop effective therapeutic drugs. It is known that the receptor-binding structural domain (SARS-CoV-2 RBD) on the spike protein of the novel coronavirus directly mediates its interaction with the host receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), and thus blocking SARS-CoV-2 RBD-ACE2 interaction is capable of inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 infection. Firstly, the interaction mechanism between SARS-CoV-2RBD-ACE2 was explored using molecular dynamics simulation (MD) coupled with molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM-PBSA) free energy calculation method. The results of energy analysis showed that the key residues R403, R408, K417, and Y505 of SARS-CoV-2 RBD and the key residues D30, E37, D38, and Y41 of ACE2 were identified. Therefore, according to the hotspot residues of ACE2 and their distribution, a short peptide library of high-affinity SARS-CoV-2 RBD was constructed. And by using molecular docking virtual screening, six short peptides including DDFEDY, DEFEDY, DEYEDY, DFVEDY, DFHEDY, and DSFEDY with high affinity for SARS-CoV-2 RBD were identified. The results of MD simulation further confirmed that DDFEDY, DEYEDY, and DFVEDY are expected to be effective inhibitors. Finally, the allergenicity, toxicity and solubility properties of the three peptide inhibitors were validated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, PR China,College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, PR China
| | - Luying Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, PR China,College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, PR China
| | - Li Li
- College of Marine and Environmental Science, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Fuping Lu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, PR China,College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, PR China
| | - Fufeng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, PR China,College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin 300457, PR China,Corresponding author. Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Ministry of Education; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, PR China.
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42
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Arabi-Jeshvaghani F, Javadi‐Zarnaghi F, Ganjalikhany MR. Analysis of critical protein-protein interactions of SARS-CoV-2 capping and proofreading molecular machineries towards designing dual target inhibitory peptides. Sci Rep 2023; 13:350. [PMID: 36611052 PMCID: PMC9825083 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-26778-8] [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: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), as the cause of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) global pandemic, and its variants, especially those with higher transmissibility and substantial immune evasion, have highlighted the imperative for developing novel therapeutics as sustainable solutions other than vaccination to combat coronaviruses (CoVs). Beside receptor recognition and virus entry, members of the SARS-CoV-2 replication/transcription complex are promising targets for designing antivirals. Here, the interacting residues that mediate protein-protein interactions (PPIs) of nsp10 with nsp16 and nsp14 were comprehensively analyzed, and the key residues' interaction maps, interaction energies, structural networks, and dynamics were investigated. Nsp10 stimulates both nsp14's exoribonuclease (ExoN) and nsp16's 2'O-methyltransferase (2'O-MTase). Nsp14 ExoN is an RNA proofreading enzyme that supports replication fidelity. Nsp16 2'O-MTase is responsible for the completion of RNA capping to ensure efficient replication and translation and escape from the host cell's innate immune system. The results of the PPIs analysis proposed crucial information with implications for designing SARS-CoV-2 antiviral drugs. Based on the predicted shared protein-protein interfaces of the nsp16-nsp10 and nsp14-nsp10 interactions, a set of dual-target peptide inhibitors was designed. The designed peptides were evaluated by molecular docking, peptide-protein interaction analysis, and free energy calculations, and then further optimized by in silico saturation mutagenesis. Based on the predicted evolutionary conservation of the interacted target residues among CoVs, the designed peptides have the potential to be developed as dual target pan-coronavirus inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Arabi-Jeshvaghani
- grid.411750.60000 0001 0454 365XDepartment of Cell and Molecular Biology & Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Javadi‐Zarnaghi
- grid.411750.60000 0001 0454 365XDepartment of Cell and Molecular Biology & Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohamad Reza Ganjalikhany
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology & Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran.
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43
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Jahirul Islam M, Nawal Islam N, Siddik Alom M, Kabir M, Halim MA. A review on structural, non-structural, and accessory proteins of SARS-CoV-2: Highlighting drug target sites. Immunobiology 2023; 228:152302. [PMID: 36434912 PMCID: PMC9663145 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2022.152302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of COVID-19, is a highly transmittable and pathogenic human coronavirus that first emerged in China in December 2019. The unprecedented outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 devastated human health within a short time leading to a global public health emergency. A detailed understanding of the viral proteins including their structural characteristics and virulence mechanism on human health is very crucial for developing vaccines and therapeutics. To date, over 1800 structures of non-structural, structural, and accessory proteins of SARS-CoV-2 are determined by cryo-electron microscopy, X-ray crystallography, and NMR spectroscopy. Designing therapeutics to target the viral proteins has several benefits since they could be highly specific against the virus while maintaining minimal detrimental effects on humans. However, for ongoing and future research on SARS-CoV-2, summarizing all the viral proteins and their detailed structural information is crucial. In this review, we compile comprehensive information on viral structural, non-structural, and accessory proteins structures with their binding and catalytic sites, different domain and motifs, and potential drug target sites to assist chemists, biologists, and clinicians finding necessary details for fundamental and therapeutic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Jahirul Islam
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer Aided Drug Design, The Red-Green Research Centre, BICCB, 16 Tejkunipara, Tejgaon, Dhaka 1215, Bangladesh
| | - Nafisa Nawal Islam
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Siddik Alom
- Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Mahmuda Kabir
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad A. Halim
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kennesaw State University, 370 Paulding Avenue NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144, USA,Corresponding author
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Sharma L, Bisht GS. Short Antimicrobial Peptides: Therapeutic Potential and Recent Advancements. Curr Pharm Des 2023; 29:3005-3017. [PMID: 38018196 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128248959231102114334] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
There has been a lot of interest in antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as potential next-generation antibiotics. They are components of the innate immune system. AMPs have broad-spectrum action and are less prone to resistance development. They show potential applications in various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and the food industry. However, despite the good activity and safety profiles, AMPs have had difficulty finding success in the clinic due to their various limitations, such as production cost, proteolytic susceptibility, and oral bioavailability. To overcome these flaws, a number of solutions have been devised, one of which is developing short antimicrobial peptides. Short antimicrobial peptides do have an advantage over longer peptides as they are more stable and do not collapse during absorption. They have generated a lot of interest because of their evolutionary success and advantageous properties, such as low molecular weight, selective targets, cell or organelles with minimal toxicity, and enormous therapeutic potential. This article provides an overview of the development of short antimicrobial peptides with an emphasis on those with ≤ 30 amino acid residues as a potential therapeutic agent to fight drug-resistant microorganisms. It also emphasizes their applications in many fields and discusses their current state in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lalita Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Gopal Singh Bisht
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Himachal Pradesh, India
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Polo-Megías D, Cano-Muñoz M, Berruezo AG, Laumond G, Moog C, Conejero-Lara F. Exploring Highly Conserved Regions of SARS-CoV-2 Spike S2 Subunit as Targets for Fusion Inhibition Using Chimeric Proteins. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415511. [PMID: 36555153 PMCID: PMC9778920 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, considerable efforts have been made to develop protective vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, immunity tends to decline within a few months, and new virus variants are emerging with increased transmissibility and capacity to evade natural or vaccine-acquired immunity. Therefore, new robust strategies are needed to combat SARS-CoV-2 infection. The viral spike composed of S1 and S2 subunits mediates viral attachment and membrane fusion to infect the host cell. In this process, interaction between the highly conserved heptad repeat 1 and 2 regions (HR1 and HR2) of S2 is crucial and for this reason; these regions are promising targets to fight SARS-CoV-2. Here, we describe the design and characterization of chimeric proteins that structurally imitate the S2 HR1 region in a trimeric coiled-coil conformation. We biophysically characterized the proteins and determined their capacity to bind the HR2 region, as well as their inhibitory activity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro. HR1 mimetic proteins showed conformational heterogeneity and a propensity to form oligomers. Moreover, their structure is composed of subdomains with varied stability. Interestingly, the full HR1 proteins showed high affinity for HR2-derived peptides and SARS-CoV-2 inhibitory activity, whereas smaller proteins mimicking HR1 subdomains had a decreased affinity for their complementary HR2 region and did not inhibit the virus. The results provide insight into effective strategies to create mimetic proteins with broad inhibitory activity and therapeutic potential against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Polo-Megías
- Departamento de Química Física, Instituto de Biotecnología y Unidad de Excelencia de Química Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Mario Cano-Muñoz
- Departamento de Química Física, Instituto de Biotecnología y Unidad de Excelencia de Química Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Alberto G Berruezo
- Departamento de Química Física, Instituto de Biotecnología y Unidad de Excelencia de Química Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Géraldine Laumond
- Laboratoire d'ImmunoRhumatologie Moléculaire, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) UMR_S 1109, Institut Thématique Interdisciplinaire (ITI) de Médecine de Précision de Strasbourg, Transplantex NG, Faculté de Médecine, Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire OMICARE, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Christiane Moog
- Laboratoire d'ImmunoRhumatologie Moléculaire, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) UMR_S 1109, Institut Thématique Interdisciplinaire (ITI) de Médecine de Précision de Strasbourg, Transplantex NG, Faculté de Médecine, Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire OMICARE, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
- Vaccine Research Institute (VRI), F-94000 Créteil, France
| | - Francisco Conejero-Lara
- Departamento de Química Física, Instituto de Biotecnología y Unidad de Excelencia de Química Aplicada a Biomedicina y Medioambiente (UEQ), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
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Novel chimeric proteins mimicking SARS-CoV-2 spike epitopes with broad inhibitory activity. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 222:2467-2478. [PMID: 36220405 PMCID: PMC9546781 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein mediates virus attachment to the cells and fusion between viral and cell membranes. Membrane fusion is driven by mutual interaction between the highly conserved heptad-repeat regions 1 and 2 (HR1 and HR2) of the S2 subunit of the spike. For this reason, these S2 regions are interesting therapeutic targets for COVID-19. Although HR1 and HR2 have been described as transiently exposed during the fusion process, no significant antibody responses against these S2 regions have been reported. Here we designed chimeric proteins that imitate highly stable HR1 helical trimers and strongly bind to HR2. The proteins have broad inhibitory activity against WT B.1 and BA.1 viruses. Sera from COVID-19 convalescent donors showed significant levels of reactive antibodies (IgG and IgA) against the HR1 mimetic proteins, whereas these antibody responses were absent in sera from uninfected donors. Moreover, both inhibitory activity and antigenicity of the proteins correlate positively with their structural stability but not with the number of amino acid changes in their HR1 sequences, indicating a conformational and conserved nature of the involved epitopes. Our results reveal previously undetected spike epitopes that may guide the design of new robust COVID-19 vaccines and therapies.
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Yang Lu J, Qi Bu Z, Tao Huang W. Peptide-based sensing of Pb2+, molecular logic computing, information encoding, cryptography, and steganography. Microchem J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2022.108198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Rong Y, Wang X, Mao W, Yuan F, Chen M, Wang S, Wang PG, Wu Z, He Y, Kong Y. Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of SARS-CoV-2 Homogeneous O-Linked Glycopeptides for Exploring Their Inhibition Functions. ACS Infect Dis 2022; 8:2198-2206. [PMID: 36095241 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Harnessing highly conserved peptides derived from the receptor binding domain (RBD) of spike (S) protein to construct peptide-based inhibitors is one of the most effective strategies to fight against the ever-mutating coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. But how the O-glycosylation affects their inhibition abilities has not been intensively explored. Herein, an intrinsic O-glycosylated peptide P320-334 derived from RBD was screened and homogeneous O-linked glycopeptides containing Tn (GalNAcα1-O-Ser/Thr), T (Galβ1-3GalNAcα1-O-Ser/Thr), sialyl-Tn (sTn, Siaα2-6GalNAcα1-O-Ser/Thr), and sialyl-T (sT, Siaα2-3Galβ1-3GalNAcα1-O-Ser/Thr) structures were first synthesized via chemoenzymatic strategies. Compared with the unglycosylated peptide, the binding of sT-P320-334 to hACE2 was enhanced to 133% and the inhibition capacity against RBD-hACE2 binding of sTn- and sT-P320-334 was significantly increased up to 150-410%. Thus, our results suggest the sialic acid residue on the terminal of short O-glycan structures might strengthen the inhibition capacities of these peptide-based inhibitors, which might provide novel optimization directions for the inhibitor design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongheng Rong
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Glycobiology, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Xingyun Wang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Weian Mao
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Glycobiology, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Fang Yuan
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Glycobiology, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Min Chen
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Glycobiology, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Shengjun Wang
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Peng George Wang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhigang Wu
- College of Food and Biology, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang 050018, China
| | - Yunjiao He
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yun Kong
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Glycobiology, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
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Goyal R, Gautam RK, Chopra H, Dubey AK, Singla RK, Rayan RA, Kamal MA. Comparative highlights on MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-1, SARS-CoV-2, and NEO-CoV. EXCLI JOURNAL 2022; 21:1245-1272. [PMID: 36483910 PMCID: PMC9727256 DOI: 10.17179/excli2022-5355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV, now SARS-CoV-1), middle east respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV), Neo-CoV, and 2019 novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19) are the most notable coronaviruses, infecting the number of people worldwide by targeting the respiratory system. All these viruses are of zoonotic origin, predominantly from bats which are one of the natural reservoir hosts for coronaviruses. Thus, the major goal of our review article is to compare and contrast the characteristics and attributes of these coronaviruses. The SARS-CoV-1, MERS-CoV, and COVID-19 have many viral similarities due to their classification, they are not genetically related. COVID-19 shares approximately 79 % of its genome with SARS-CoV-1 and about 50 % with MERS-CoV. The shared receptor protein, ACE2 exhibit the most striking genetic similarities between SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-CoV-2. SARS-CoV primarily replicates in the epithelial cells of the respiratory system, but it may also affect macrophages, monocytes, activated T cells, and dendritic cells. MERS-CoV not only infects and replicates inside the epithelial and immune cells, but it may lyse them too, which is one of the common reasons for MERS's higher mortality rate. The details of infections caused by SARS-CoV-2 and lytic replication mechanisms in host cells are currently mysterious. In this review article, we will discuss the comparative highlights of SARS-CoV-1, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, and Neo-CoV, concerning their structural features, morphological characteristics, sources of virus origin and their evolutionary transitions, infection mechanism, computational study approaches, pathogenesis and their severity towards several diseases, possible therapeutic approaches, and preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajat Goyal
- MM College of Pharmacy, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, Haryana, India,MM School of Pharmacy, Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Sadopur-Ambala, India
| | - Rupesh K. Gautam
- Department of Pharmacology, Indore Institute of Pharmacy, Rau, Indore, India-453331,*To whom correspondence should be addressed: Rupesh K. Gautam, Department of Pharmacology, Indore Institute of Pharmacy, IIST Campus, Opposite IIM Indore, Rau-Pithampur Road, Indore – 453331 (M.P.), India; Tel.: +91 9413654324, E-mail:
| | - Hitesh Chopra
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India-140401
| | | | - Rajeev K. Singla
- Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab-144411, India
| | - Rehab A. Rayan
- Department of Epidemiology, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, 5422031, Egypt
| | - Mohammad Amjad Kamal
- Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China,King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia,Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Bangladesh,Enzymoics, 7 Peterlee Place, Hebersham NSW 2770; Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Australia
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50
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Zannella C, Chianese A, Greco G, Santella B, Squillaci G, Monti A, Doti N, Sanna G, Manzin A, Morana A, De Filippis A, D’Angelo G, Palmieri F, Franci G, Galdiero M. Design of Three Residues Peptides against SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Viruses 2022; 14:v14102103. [PMID: 36298659 PMCID: PMC9612326 DOI: 10.3390/v14102103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The continuous and rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the need to seek new therapeutic and prophylactic treatments. Peptide inhibitors are a valid alternative approach for the treatment of emerging viral infections, mainly due to their low toxicity and high efficiency. Recently, two small nucleotide signatures were identified in the genome of some members of the Coronaviridae family and many other human pathogens. In this study, we investigated whether the corresponding amino acid sequences of such nucleotide sequences could have effects on the viral infection of two representative human coronaviruses: HCoV-OC43 and SARS-CoV-2. Our results showed that the synthetic peptides analyzed inhibit the infection of both coronaviruses in a dose-dependent manner by binding the RBD of the Spike protein, as suggested by molecular docking and validated by biochemical studies. The peptides tested do not provide toxicity on cultured cells or human erythrocytes and are resistant to human serum proteases, indicating that they may be very promising antiviral peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Zannella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Annalisa Chianese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Greco
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Biagio Santella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Squillaci
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems, National Research Council (CNR), Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Monti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80134 Naples, Italy
| | - Nunzianna Doti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80134 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Aldo Manzin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Morana
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems, National Research Council (CNR), Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Anna De Filippis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Gianni D’Angelo
- Department of Computer Science, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, 84084 Fisciano, Italy
| | - Francesco Palmieri
- Department of Computer Science, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, 84084 Fisciano, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Franci
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Massimiliano Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
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