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Dulay ANG, de Guzman JCC, Marquez ZYD, Santana ESD, Arce J, Orosco FL. The potential of Chlorella spp. as antiviral source against African swine fever virus through a virtual screening pipeline. J Mol Graph Model 2024; 132:108846. [PMID: 39151375 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2024.108846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
African swine fever (ASF) causes high mortality in pigs and threatens global swine production. There is still a lack of therapeutics available, with two vaccines under scrutiny and no approved small-molecule drugs. Eleven (11) viral proteins were used to identify potential antivirals in in silico screening of secondary metabolites (127) from Chlorella spp. The metabolites were screened for affinity and binding selectivity. High-scoring compounds were assessed through in silico ADMET (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, Toxicity) predictions, compared to structurally similar drugs, and checked for off-target docking with prepared swine receptors. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations determined binding stability while binding energy was measured in Molecular Mechanics - Generalized Born Surface Area (MMGBSA) or Poisson-Boltzmann Surface Area (MMPBSA). Only six (6) compounds passed until MD analyses, of which five (5) were stable after 100 ns of MD runs. Of these five compounds, only three had binding affinities that were comparable to or stronger than controls. Specifically, phytosterols 24,25-dihydrolanosterol and CID 4206521 that interact with the RNA capping enzyme (pNP868R), and ergosterol which bound to the Erv-like thioreductase (pB119L). The compounds identified in this study can be used as a theoretical basis for in vitro screening to develop potent antiviral drugs against ASFV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Neil G Dulay
- Virology and Vaccine Research Program, Industrial Technology Development Institute, Department of Science and Technology, Taguig, 1632, Philippines
| | - John Christian C de Guzman
- Virology and Vaccine Research Program, Industrial Technology Development Institute, Department of Science and Technology, Taguig, 1632, Philippines
| | - Zyra Ysha D Marquez
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines - Manila, Manila, 1000, Philippines
| | - Elisha Sofia D Santana
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines - Manila, Manila, 1000, Philippines
| | - Jessamine Arce
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines - Manila, Manila, 1000, Philippines
| | - Fredmoore L Orosco
- Virology and Vaccine Research Program, Industrial Technology Development Institute, Department of Science and Technology, Taguig, 1632, Philippines; Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines - Manila, Manila, 1000, Philippines; S&T Fellows Program, Department of Science and Technology, Taguig, 1632, Philippines.
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Metibemu DS, Adeyinka OS, Falode J, Crown O, Ogungbe IV. Inhibitors of the Structural and Nonstructural Proteins of Alphaviruses. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:2507-2524. [PMID: 38992989 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00254] [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] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
The Alphavirus genus includes viruses that cause encephalitis due to neuroinvasion and viruses that cause arthritis due to acute and chronic inflammation. There is no approved therapeutic for alphavirus infections, but significant efforts are ongoing, more so in recent years, to develop vaccines and therapeutics for alphavirus infections. This review article highlights some of the major advances made so far to identify small molecules that can selectively target the structural and the nonstructural proteins in alphaviruses with the expectation that persistent investigation of an increasingly expanding chemical space through a variety of structure-based design and high-throughput screening strategies will yield candidate drugs for clinical studies. While most of the works discussed are still in the early discovery to lead optimization stages, promising avenues remain for drug development against this family of viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damilohun Samuel Metibemu
- Chemistry and Biotechnology Science and Engineering Programs, The University of Alabama in Huntsville, 301 Sparkman Drive, Huntsville, Alabama 35899, United States
| | - Olawale Samuel Adeyinka
- Chemistry and Biotechnology Science and Engineering Programs, The University of Alabama in Huntsville, 301 Sparkman Drive, Huntsville, Alabama 35899, United States
| | - John Falode
- Chemistry and Biotechnology Science and Engineering Programs, The University of Alabama in Huntsville, 301 Sparkman Drive, Huntsville, Alabama 35899, United States
| | - Olamide Crown
- Chemistry and Biotechnology Science and Engineering Programs, The University of Alabama in Huntsville, 301 Sparkman Drive, Huntsville, Alabama 35899, United States
| | - Ifedayo Victor Ogungbe
- Chemistry and Biotechnology Science and Engineering Programs, The University of Alabama in Huntsville, 301 Sparkman Drive, Huntsville, Alabama 35899, United States
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Deng J, Gong F, Li Y, Tan X, Liu X, Yang S, Chen X, Wang H, Liu Q, Shen C, Zhou L, Chen Y. Structural and functional insights into the 2'-O-methyltransferase of SARS-CoV-2. Virol Sin 2024:S1995-820X(24)00111-1. [PMID: 38969340 DOI: 10.1016/j.virs.2024.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
A unique feature of coronaviruses is their utilization of self-encoded nonstructural protein 16 (nsp16), 2'-O-methyltransferase (2'-O-MTase), to cap their RNAs through ribose 2'-O-methylation modification. This process is crucial for maintaining viral genome stability, facilitating efficient translation, and enabling immune escape. Despite considerable advances in the ultrastructure of SARS-CoV-2 nsp16/nsp10, insights into its molecular mechanism have so far been limited. In this study, we systematically characterized the 2'-O-MTase activity of nsp16 in SARS-CoV-2, focusing on its dependence on nsp10 stimulation. We observed cross-reactivity between nsp16 and nsp10 in various coronaviruses due to a conserved interaction interface. However, a single residue substitution (K58T) in SARS-CoV-2 nsp10 restricted the functional activation of MERS-CoV nsp16. Furthermore, the cofactor nsp10 effectively enhanced the binding of nsp16 to the substrate RNA and the methyl donor S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM). Mechanistically, His-80, Lys-93, and Gly-94 of nsp10 interacted with Asp-102, Ser-105, and Asp-106 of nsp16, respectively, thereby effectively stabilizing the SAM binding pocket. Lys-43 of nsp10 interacted with Lys-38 and Gly-39 of nsp16 to dynamically regulate the RNA binding pocket and facilitate precise binding of RNA to the nsp16/nsp10 complex. By assessing the conformational epitopes of nsp16/nsp10 complex, we further determined the critical residues involved in 2'-O-MTase activity. Additionally, we utilized an in vitro biochemical platform to screen potential inhibitors targeting 2'-O-MTase activity. Overall, our results significantly enhance the understanding of viral 2'-O methylation process and mechanism, providing valuable targets for antiviral drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jikai Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Feiyu Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Yingjian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Xue Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Xuemei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Shimin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Xianying Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Hongyun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Qianyun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Chao Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Li Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China; Animal Bio-Safety Level III Laboratory/Institute for Vaccine Research, Wuhan University School of Medicine, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China; Animal Bio-Safety Level III Laboratory/Institute for Vaccine Research, Wuhan University School of Medicine, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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Feracci M, Hernandez S, Garlatti L, Mondielli C, Vincentelli R, Canard B, Reguera J, Ferron F, Alvarez K. Biophysical and structural study of La Crosse virus endonuclease inhibition for the development of new antiviral options. IUCRJ 2024; 11:374-383. [PMID: 38656310 PMCID: PMC11067750 DOI: 10.1107/s205225252400304x] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The large Bunyavirales order includes several families of viruses with a segmented ambisense (-) RNA genome and a cytoplasmic life cycle that starts by synthesizing viral mRNA. The initiation of transcription, which is common to all members, relies on an endonuclease activity that is responsible for cap-snatching. In La Crosse virus, an orthobunyavirus, it has previously been shown that the cap-snatching endonuclease resides in the N-terminal domain of the L protein. Orthobunyaviruses are transmitted by arthropods and cause diseases in cattle. However, California encephalitis virus, La Crosse virus and Jamestown Canyon virus are North American species that can cause encephalitis in humans. No vaccines or antiviral drugs are available. In this study, three known Influenza virus endonuclease inhibitors (DPBA, L-742,001 and baloxavir) were repurposed on the La Crosse virus endonuclease. Their inhibition was evaluated by fluorescence resonance energy transfer and their mode of binding was then assessed by differential scanning fluorimetry and microscale thermophoresis. Finally, two crystallographic structures were obtained in complex with L-742,001 and baloxavir, providing access to the structural determinants of inhibition and offering key information for the further development of Bunyavirales endonuclease inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikael Feracci
- Université Aix-Marseille, Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques (AFMB)–UMR7257 CNRS–Case 932, 163 Avenue de Luminy, 13288 Marseille CEDEX 09, France
| | - Sergio Hernandez
- Université Aix-Marseille, Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques (AFMB)–UMR7257 CNRS–Case 932, 163 Avenue de Luminy, 13288 Marseille CEDEX 09, France
- Université Lille; INSERM, UMR-S 1172, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition Research Centre, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Laura Garlatti
- Université Aix-Marseille, Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques (AFMB)–UMR7257 CNRS–Case 932, 163 Avenue de Luminy, 13288 Marseille CEDEX 09, France
- OmegaChem, Lévis, 480 Rue Perreault, Québec G6W 7V6, Canada
| | - Clemence Mondielli
- Université Aix-Marseille, Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques (AFMB)–UMR7257 CNRS–Case 932, 163 Avenue de Luminy, 13288 Marseille CEDEX 09, France
- Evotec (France) SAS, Campus Curie, 195 Route d’Espagne, 31036 Toulouse, France
| | - Renaud Vincentelli
- Université Aix-Marseille, Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques (AFMB)–UMR7257 CNRS–Case 932, 163 Avenue de Luminy, 13288 Marseille CEDEX 09, France
| | - Bruno Canard
- Université Aix-Marseille, Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques (AFMB)–UMR7257 CNRS–Case 932, 163 Avenue de Luminy, 13288 Marseille CEDEX 09, France
- European Virus Bioinformatics Center, Leutragraben 1, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Juan Reguera
- Université Aix-Marseille, Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques (AFMB)–UMR7257 CNRS–Case 932, 163 Avenue de Luminy, 13288 Marseille CEDEX 09, France
| | - François Ferron
- Université Aix-Marseille, Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques (AFMB)–UMR7257 CNRS–Case 932, 163 Avenue de Luminy, 13288 Marseille CEDEX 09, France
- European Virus Bioinformatics Center, Leutragraben 1, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Karine Alvarez
- Université Aix-Marseille, Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques (AFMB)–UMR7257 CNRS–Case 932, 163 Avenue de Luminy, 13288 Marseille CEDEX 09, France
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Halder SK, Ahmad I, Shathi JF, Mim MM, Hassan MR, Jewel MJI, Dey P, Islam MS, Patel H, Morshed MR, Shakil MS, Hossen MS. A Comprehensive Study to Unleash the Putative Inhibitors of Serotype2 of Dengue Virus: Insights from an In Silico Structure-Based Drug Discovery. Mol Biotechnol 2024; 66:612-625. [PMID: 36307631 PMCID: PMC9616416 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-022-00582-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease that claims the lives of millions of people around the world. A number of factors like disease's non-specific symptoms, increased viral mutation, growing antiviral drug resistance due to reduced susceptibility, unavailability of an effective vaccine for dengue, weak immunity against the virus, and many more are involved. Dengue belongs to the Flaviviridae family of viruses. The two species of the vector transmitting dengue are Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, with the former one being dominant. Serotypes 2 of dengue fever are spread to the human body and cause severe illness. Recently, dengue has imposed an aggressive effect synergistically with the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, we concentrated our efforts on finding a potential therapeutic. For this, we chose natural compounds to fight dengue fever, which is currently regarded as successful among many drug therapies. Following this, we started the in silico experiment with 922 plant extracts as lead compounds to fight serotype 2. In this study, we used SwissADME for analyzing ligand drug-likeness, pkCSM for designing an ADMET profile, Autodock vina 4.2 and Swissdock tools for molecular docking, and finally Desmond for molecular dynamics simulation. Ultimately 45 were found effective against the 2'O methyltransferase protein of serotype 2. CHEMBL376820 was found as possible therapeutic candidates for inhibiting methyltransferase protein in this thorough analysis. Nevertheless, more in vitro and in vivo research are required to substantiate their potential therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajal Kumar Halder
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342 Bangladesh
- Division of Computer Aided Drug Design, BioAid, Mirpur, Dhaka, 1216 Bangladesh
| | - Iqrar Ahmad
- Division of Computer Aided Drug Design, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, R. C. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Shirpur, Maharashtra 425405 India
| | - Jannatul Fardous Shathi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342 Bangladesh
- Division of Computer Aided Drug Design, BioAid, Mirpur, Dhaka, 1216 Bangladesh
| | - Maria Mulla Mim
- Department of Pharmacy, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342 Bangladesh
- Division of Computer Aided Drug Design, BioAid, Mirpur, Dhaka, 1216 Bangladesh
| | - Md Rakibul Hassan
- Department of Biochemistry, Gono Bishwabidyalay, Savar, Dhaka 1344 Bangladesh
- Division of Computer Aided Drug Design, BioAid, Mirpur, Dhaka, 1216 Bangladesh
| | - Md Johurul Islam Jewel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Primeasia University, Banani, Dhaka 1213 Bangladesh
- Division of Computer Aided Drug Design, BioAid, Mirpur, Dhaka, 1216 Bangladesh
| | - Piyali Dey
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Primeasia University, Banani, Dhaka 1213 Bangladesh
- Division of Computer Aided Drug Design, BioAid, Mirpur, Dhaka, 1216 Bangladesh
| | - Md Sirajul Islam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Primeasia University, Banani, Dhaka 1213 Bangladesh
- Division of Computer Aided Drug Design, BioAid, Mirpur, Dhaka, 1216 Bangladesh
| | - Harun Patel
- Division of Computer Aided Drug Design, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, R. C. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Shirpur, Maharashtra 425405 India
| | - Md Reaz Morshed
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, 3814 Bangladesh
| | - Md Salman Shakil
- Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Brac University, Dhaka, 1212 Bangladesh
- Division of Computer Aided Drug Design, BioAid, Mirpur, Dhaka, 1216 Bangladesh
| | - Md Sakib Hossen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Primeasia University, Banani, Dhaka 1213 Bangladesh
- Division of Computer Aided Drug Design, BioAid, Mirpur, Dhaka, 1216 Bangladesh
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Sulimov AV, Ilin IS, Tashchilova AS, Kondakova OA, Kutov DC, Sulimov VB. Docking and other computing tools in drug design against SARS-CoV-2. SAR AND QSAR IN ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 35:91-136. [PMID: 38353209 DOI: 10.1080/1062936x.2024.2306336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The use of computer simulation methods has become an indispensable component in identifying drugs against the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. There is a huge body of literature on application of molecular modelling to predict inhibitors against target proteins of SARS-CoV-2. To keep our review clear and readable, we limited ourselves primarily to works that use computational methods to find inhibitors and test the predicted compounds experimentally either in target protein assays or in cell culture with live SARS-CoV-2. Some works containing results of experimental discovery of corresponding inhibitors without using computer modelling are included as examples of a success. Also, some computational works without experimental confirmations are also included if they attract our attention either by simulation methods or by databases used. This review collects studies that use various molecular modelling methods: docking, molecular dynamics, quantum mechanics, machine learning, and others. Most of these studies are based on docking, and other methods are used mainly for post-processing to select the best compounds among those found through docking. Simulation methods are presented concisely, information is also provided on databases of organic compounds that can be useful for virtual screening, and the review itself is structured in accordance with coronavirus target proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Sulimov
- Dimonta Ltd., Moscow, Russia
- Research Computing Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - I S Ilin
- Research Computing Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - A S Tashchilova
- Dimonta Ltd., Moscow, Russia
- Research Computing Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - O A Kondakova
- Research Computing Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - D C Kutov
- Dimonta Ltd., Moscow, Russia
- Research Computing Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - V B Sulimov
- Dimonta Ltd., Moscow, Russia
- Research Computing Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
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Pandarangga P, Simarmata YTRMR, Liu ABH, Haryati DAF. In silico simulation of hyperoside, isoquercetin, quercetin, and quercitrin as potential antivirals against the pNP868R protein of African swine fever virus. Vet World 2024; 17:171-178. [PMID: 38406373 PMCID: PMC10884570 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.171-178] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim African swine fever (ASF) causes disease in pigs with up to 100% mortality rates. There is no effective vaccine to protect against it. This study aimed to perform in silico docking of ASF virus (ASFV) pNP868R protein with potential flavonoid ligands to identify ligands that interfere with mRNA cap formation. Materials and Methods The ASFV pNP868R protein was tested with hyperoside, isoquercetin, quercetin, and quercitrin in this in silico simulation. ASFV pNP868R protein was extracted from the Research Collaboration for Structural Bioinformatics Protein Data Bank (RCSB PDB) database with PDB ID 7D8U (https://www.rcsb.org/structure/7D8U). Standard ligands were separated from proteins using UCSF Chimera 1.13. The standard ligand was redocked to protein using AutoDockTools 1.5.6 with the AutoDock4 method for validation. In the docking process, the grid box size was 40 × 40 × 40 Å3 with x, y, and z coordinates of 16.433, -43.826, and -9.496, respectively. The molecular docking process of the proposed ligand-protein complex can proceed if the standard ligand position is not significantly different from its original position in the viral protein's pocket. The root mean square deviation (RMSD), root mean square fluctuation (RMSF), and radius of gyration (RoG) of the hyperoside with the lowest energy binding need to be analyzed with molecular dynamics using Groningen machine for chemical simulation 5.1.1. Results Molecular docking and dynamic simulation revealed that hyperoside had the most stable and compact binding to the pNP868R protein. Hyperoside binds to the protein at the minimum energy of -9.07 KJ/mol. The RMSD, RMSF, and RoG values of 0.281 nm, 0.2 nm, and 2.175 nm, respectively, indicate the stability and compactness of this binding. Conclusion Hyperoside is the most likely antiviral candidate to bind to the pNP868R protein in silico. Therefore, it is necessary to test whether this flavonoid can inhibit mRNA capping in vitro and elicit the host immune response against uncapped viral mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putri Pandarangga
- Department of Clinic, Reproduction, Pathology, and Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Nusa Cendana, Kupang, 85001, Indonesia
| | - Yohanes T. R. M. R. Simarmata
- Department of Clinic, Reproduction, Pathology, and Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Nusa Cendana, Kupang, 85001, Indonesia
| | - Adi Berci Handayani Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Math and Science, Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
| | - Dwi Ari Fitri Haryati
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Math and Science, Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
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Singh D, Irham LM, Singh A, Kurmi BD. Guanidinium-based Integrated Peptide Dendrimers: Pioneer Nanocarrier in Cancer Therapy. Protein Pept Lett 2024; 31:261-274. [PMID: 38629378 DOI: 10.2174/0109298665292042240325052536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
The landscape of cancer therapy has witnessed a paradigm shift with the emergence of innovative delivery systems, and Guanidinium-based Peptide Dendrimers have emerged as a vanguard in this transformative journey. With their unique molecular architecture and intrinsic biocompatibility, these dendrimers offer a promising avenue for the targeted delivery of therapeutic cargo in cancer treatment. This comprehensive review delves into the intricate world of Guanidinium- based Peptide Dendrimers, unraveling their structural intricacies, mechanisms of action, and advancements that have propelled them from laboratory curiosities to potential clinical champions. Exploiting the potent properties of guanidinium, these dendrimers exhibit unparalleled precision in encapsulating and transporting diverse cargo molecules, ranging from conventional chemotherapeutics to cutting-edge nucleic acids. The review navigates the depths of their design principles, investigating their prowess in traversing the complex terrain of cellular barriers for optimal cargo delivery. Moreover, it delves into emerging trends, such as personalized therapeutic approaches, multimodal imaging, and bioinformatics-driven design, highlighting their potential to redefine the future of cancer therapy. Crucially, the review addresses the pivotal concerns of biocompatibility and safety, examining cytotoxicity profiles, immune responses, and in vivo studies. It underscores the importance of aligning scientific marvels with the stringent demands of clinical applications. Through each section, the narrative underscores the promises and possibilities that Guanidinium-based Peptide Dendrimers hold and how they can potentially reshape the landscape of precision cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilpreet Singh
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, 140413, India
- University Centre for Research and Development, Chandigarh University, Gharuan (140413), India
| | | | - Amrinder Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Balak Das Kurmi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, 142001, India
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Wang H, Rizvi SRA, Dong D, Lou J, Wang Q, Sopipong W, Su Y, Najar F, Agarwal PK, Kozielski F, Haider S. Emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 NSP10 highlight strong functional conservation of its binding to two non-structural proteins, NSP14 and NSP16. eLife 2023; 12:RP87884. [PMID: 38127066 PMCID: PMC10735223 DOI: 10.7554/elife.87884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 protects its RNA from being recognized by host immune responses by methylation of its 5' end, also known as capping. This process is carried out by two enzymes, non-structural protein 16 (NSP16) containing 2'-O-methyltransferase and NSP14 through its N7 methyltransferase activity, which are essential for the replication of the viral genome as well as evading the host's innate immunity. NSP10 acts as a crucial cofactor and stimulator of NSP14 and NSP16. To further understand the role of NSP10, we carried out a comprehensive analysis of >13 million globally collected whole-genome sequences (WGS) of SARS-CoV-2 obtained from the Global Initiative Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) and compared it with the reference genome Wuhan/WIV04/2019 to identify all currently known variants in NSP10. T12I, T102I, and A104V in NSP10 have been identified as the three most frequent variants and characterized using X-ray crystallography, biophysical assays, and enhanced sampling simulations. In contrast to other proteins such as spike and NSP6, NSP10 is significantly less prone to mutation due to its crucial role in replication. The functional effects of the variants were examined for their impact on the binding affinity and stability of both NSP14-NSP10 and NSP16-NSP10 complexes. These results highlight the limited changes induced by variant evolution in NSP10 and reflect on the critical roles NSP10 plays during the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle. These results also indicate that there is limited capacity for the virus to overcome inhibitors targeting NSP10 via the generation of variants in inhibitor binding pockets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Syed RA Rizvi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Danni Dong
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Jiaqi Lou
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Watanyoo Sopipong
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Yufeng Su
- College of Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences, Brunel University LondonUxbridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Fares Najar
- High-Performance Computing Center, Oklahoma State UniversityStillwaterUnited States
| | - Pratul K Agarwal
- High-Performance Computing Center, Oklahoma State UniversityStillwaterUnited States
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Oklahoma State UniversityStillwaterUnited States
| | - Frank Kozielski
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Shozeb Haider
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
- UCL Centre for Advanced Research Computing, University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
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10
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Kumar A, Hooda P, Puri A, Khatter R, S. Al-Dosari M, Sinha N, Parvez MK, Sehgal D. Methotrexate, an anti-inflammatory drug, inhibits Hepatitis E viral replication. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2023; 38:2280500. [PMID: 37975328 PMCID: PMC11003484 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2023.2280500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) is a positively oriented RNA virus having a 7.2 kb genome. HEV consists of three open reading frames (ORF1-3). Of these, ORF1 codes for the enzymes Methyltransferase (Mtase), Papain-like cysteine protease (PCP), RNA helicase, and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp). Unavailability of a vaccine or effective drug against HEV and considering the side effects associated with the off-label use of ribavirin (RBV) and pegylated interferons, an alternative approach is required by the modulation of specific enzymes to prevent the infection. HEV helicase is involved in unwinding the double-stranded RNA, RNA processing, transcriptional regulation, and pre-mRNA processing. Therefore, we screened FDA-approved compounds from the ZINC15 database against the modelled 3D structure of HEV helicase and found that methotrexate and compound A (Pubchem ID BTB07890) inhibit the NTPase and dsRNA unwinding activity leading to inhibition of HEV RNA replication. This may be further authenticated by in vivo study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash Kumar
- Department of Life Sciences, Virology lab, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, Greater Noida, India
| | - Preeti Hooda
- Department of Life Sciences, Virology lab, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, Greater Noida, India
| | - Anindita Puri
- Department of Life Sciences, Virology lab, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, Greater Noida, India
| | - Radhika Khatter
- Department of Life Sciences, Virology lab, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, Greater Noida, India
| | - Mohammed S. Al-Dosari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Neha Sinha
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mohammad K. Parvez
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Deepak Sehgal
- Department of Life Sciences, Virology lab, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, Greater Noida, India
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11
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Inniss NL, Kozic J, Li F, Rosas-Lemus M, Minasov G, Rybáček J, Zhu Y, Pohl R, Shuvalova L, Rulíšek L, Brunzelle JS, Bednárová L, Štefek M, Kormaník JM, Andris E, Šebestík J, Li ASM, Brown PJ, Schmitz U, Saikatendu K, Chang E, Nencka R, Vedadi M, Satchell KJ. Discovery of a Druggable, Cryptic Pocket in SARS-CoV-2 nsp16 Using Allosteric Inhibitors. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:1918-1931. [PMID: 37728236 PMCID: PMC10961098 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
A collaborative, open-science team undertook discovery of novel small molecule inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 nsp16-nsp10 2'-O-methyltransferase using a high throughput screening approach with the potential to reveal new inhibition strategies. This screen yielded compound 5a, a ligand possessing an electron-deficient double bond, as an inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 nsp16 activity. Surprisingly, X-ray crystal structures revealed that 5a covalently binds within a previously unrecognized cryptic pocket near the S-adenosylmethionine binding cleft in a manner that prevents occupation by S-adenosylmethionine. Using a multidisciplinary approach, we examined the mechanism of binding of compound 5a to the nsp16 cryptic pocket and developed 5a derivatives that inhibited nsp16 activity and murine hepatitis virus replication in rat lung epithelial cells but proved cytotoxic to cell lines canonically used to examine SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our study reveals the druggability of this newly discovered SARS-CoV-2 nsp16 cryptic pocket, provides novel tool compounds to explore the site, and suggests a new approach for discovery of nsp16 inhibition-based pan-coronavirus therapeutics through structure-guided drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole L. Inniss
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology and Center for Structural Biology of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States
| | - Ján Kozic
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 6, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Fengling Li
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Monica Rosas-Lemus
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology and Center for Structural Biology of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States
| | - George Minasov
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology and Center for Structural Biology of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States
| | - Jiří Rybáček
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 6, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Yingjie Zhu
- WuXi AppTec Co., Ltd, China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, Shanghai, 201308, China
| | - Radek Pohl
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 6, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Ludmilla Shuvalova
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States
| | - Lubomír Rulíšek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 6, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Joseph S. Brunzelle
- Northwestern Synchrotron Research Center, Life Sciences Collaborative Access Team, Northwestern University, Argonne, IL, 60439, United States
| | - Lucie Bednárová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 6, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Milan Štefek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 6, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Ján Michael Kormaník
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 6, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Erik Andris
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 6, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Šebestík
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 6, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Alice Shi Ming Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada, and Drug Discovery Program, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario M5G 0A3, Canada
| | - Peter J. Brown
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - Uli Schmitz
- Structural Chemistry, Gilead Pharmaceuticals, San Mateo, CA, 94404, United States
| | - Kumar Saikatendu
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, CA, 92121, United States
| | - Edcon Chang
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, CA, 92121, United States
| | - Radim Nencka
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 6, 160 00, Czech Republic
| | - Masoud Vedadi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada, and Drug Discovery Program, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario M5G 0A3, Canada
| | - Karla J.F. Satchell
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology and Center for Structural Biology of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States
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12
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Ornelas MY, Thomas AY, Johnson Rosas LI, Medina GN, Mehta AP. Characterization, Directed Evolution, and Targeting of DNA Virus-Encoded RNA Capping Enzymes Using Phenotypic Yeast Platforms. ACS Chem Biol 2023; 18:1808-1820. [PMID: 37498174 PMCID: PMC11024868 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.3c00243] [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] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
The constant and the sudden emergence of zoonotic human and animal viruses is a significant threat to human health, the world economy, and the world food supply. This has necessitated the development of broad-spectrum therapeutic strategies to combat these emerging pathogens. Mechanisms that are essential for viral replication and propagation have been successfully targeted in the past to develop broad-spectrum therapeutics that can be readily repurposed to combat new zoonotic pathogens. Because of the importance of viral RNA capping enzymes to viral replication and pathogenesis, as well as their presence in both DNA and RNA viruses, these viral proteins have been a long-standing therapeutic target. Here, we use genome sequencing information and yeast-based platforms (YeRC0M) to identify, characterize, and target viral genome-encoded essential RNA capping enzymes from emerging strains of DNA viruses, i.e., Monkeypox virus and African Swine Fever Virus, which are a significant threat to human and domestic animal health. We first identified and biochemically characterized these viral RNA capping enzymes and their necessary protein domains. We observed significant differences in functional protein domains and organization for RNA capping enzymes from emerging DNA viruses in comparison to emerging RNA viruses. We also observed several differences in the biochemical properties of these viral RNA capping enzymes using our phenotypic yeast-based approaches (YeRC0M) as compared to the previous in vitro studies. Further, using directed evolution, we were able to identify inactivation and attenuation mutations in these essential viral RNA capping enzymes; these data could have implications on virus biocontainment as well as live attenuated vaccine development. We also developed methods that would facilitate high-throughput phenotypic screening to identify broad-spectrum inhibitors that selectively target viral RNA capping enzymes over host RNA capping enzymes. As demonstrated here, our approaches to identify, characterize, and target viral genome-encoded essential RNA capping enzymes are highly modular and can be readily adapted for targeting emerging viral pathogens as well as their variants that emerge in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marya Y Ornelas
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S Matthews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Angela Y Thomas
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S Matthews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - L Idalee Johnson Rosas
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S Matthews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Gisselle N Medina
- Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC), Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Greenport, New York 11944, United States
- National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF), ARS, USDA, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, United States
| | - Angad P Mehta
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S Matthews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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13
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Structure-activity relationship studies of anti-bunyaviral cap-dependent endonuclease inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2023; 83:129175. [PMID: 36758821 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2023.129175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Bunyaviruses, including the Lassa virus (LASV), are known to cause hemorrhagic fever and have a high fatality rate among hospitalized patients, as there are few effective treatments. We focused on the fact that bunyaviruses use cap-dependent endonuclease (CEN) for viral replication, which is similar to influenza viruses. This led us to screen carbamoyl pyridone bicycle (CAB) compounds, which compose a series of baloxavir acid (BXA) derivatives, against lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) and Junin virus (JUNV) among the bunyaviruses. This led to the discovery of 1c, which has potent anti-bunyaviral activities. In SAR studies, we found that a large lipophilic side chain is preferred for the 1-position of the CAB scaffold, similar to the influenza CEN inhibitor, and that a small alkyl group for the 3-position shows high activity. Moreover, the 7‑carboxyl group of the scaffold is essential for anti-bunyaviral activities, and the antiviral activity is reduced by conversion to various carboxylic acid bioisosteres. The SAR results are discussed using a binding model of 9d in the active center of the known LCMV CEN crystal structure. These compounds show promise as broad-spectrum anti-bunyavirus therapeutics, given their relatively favorable metabolic stability and PK profiles.
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14
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Ogorek TJ, Golden JE. Advances in the Development of Small Molecule Antivirals against Equine Encephalitic Viruses. Viruses 2023; 15:413. [PMID: 36851628 PMCID: PMC9958955 DOI: 10.3390/v15020413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Venezuelan, western, and eastern equine encephalitic alphaviruses (VEEV, WEEV, and EEEV, respectively) are arboviruses that are highly pathogenic to equines and cause significant harm to infected humans. Currently, human alphavirus infection and the resulting diseases caused by them are unmitigated due to the absence of approved vaccines or therapeutics for general use. These circumstances, combined with the unpredictability of outbreaks-as exemplified by a 2019 EEE surge in the United States that claimed 19 patient lives-emphasize the risks posed by these viruses, especially for aerosolized VEEV and EEEV which are potential biothreats. Herein, small molecule inhibitors of VEEV, WEEV, and EEEV are reviewed that have been identified or advanced in the last five years since a comprehensive review was last performed. We organize structures according to host- versus virus-targeted mechanisms, highlight cellular and animal data that are milestones in the development pipeline, and provide a perspective on key considerations for the progression of compounds at early and later stages of advancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler J. Ogorek
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Jennifer E. Golden
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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15
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Procházková M, Füzik T, Grybchuk D, Yurchenko V, Plevka P. Virion structure of Leishmania RNA virus 1. Virology 2022; 577:149-154. [PMID: 36371873 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2022.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The presence of Leishmania RNA virus 1 (LRV1) enables Leishmania protozoan parasites to cause more severe disease than the virus-free strains. The structure of LRV1 virus-like particles has been determined previously, however, the structure of the LRV1 virion has not been characterized. Here we used cryo-electron microscopy and single-particle reconstruction to determine the structures of the LRV1 virion and empty particle isolated from Leishmania guyanensis to resolutions of 4.0 Å and 3.6 Å, respectively. The capsid of LRV1 is built from sixty dimers of capsid proteins organized with icosahedral symmetry. RNA genomes of totiviruses are replicated inside the virions by RNA polymerases expressed as C-terminal extensions of a sub-population of capsid proteins. Most of the virions probably contain one or two copies of the RNA polymerase, however, the location of the polymerase domains in LRV1 capsid could not be identified, indicating that it varies among particles. Importance. Every year over 200 000 people contract leishmaniasis and more than five hundred people die of the disease. The mucocutaneous form of leishmaniasis produces lesions that can destroy the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth, and throat. Leishmania parasites carrying Leishmania RNA virus 1 (LRV1) are predisposed to cause aggravated symptoms in the mucocutaneous form of leishmaniasis. Here, we present the structure of the LRV1 virion determined using cryo-electron microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Procházková
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Tibor Füzik
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Danyil Grybchuk
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Vyacheslav Yurchenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Chittussiho 10, Ostrava, 710 00, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Plevka
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic.
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16
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Ornelas MY, Thomas AY, Johnson Rosas LI, Scoville RO, Mehta AP. Synthetic Platforms for Characterizing and Targeting of SARS-CoV-2 Genome Capping Enzymes. ACS Synth Biol 2022; 11:3759-3771. [PMID: 36331143 PMCID: PMC9662071 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.2c00359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Essential viral enzymes have been successfully targeted to combat the diseases caused by emerging pathogenic RNA viruses (e.g., viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase). Because of the conserved nature of such viral enzymes, therapeutics targeting these enzymes have the potential to be repurposed to combat emerging diseases, e.g., remdesivir, which was initially developed as a potential Ebola treatment, then was repurposed for COVID-19. Our efforts described in this study target another essential and highly conserved, but relatively less explored, step in RNA virus translation and replication, i.e., capping of the viral RNA genome. The viral genome cap structure disguises the genome of most RNA viruses to resemble the mRNA cap structure of their host and is essential for viral translation, propagation, and immune evasion. Here, we developed a synthetic, phenotypic yeast-based complementation platform (YeRC0M) for molecular characterization and targeting of SARS-CoV-2 genome-encoded RNA cap-0 (guanine-N7)-methyltransferase (N7-MTase) enzyme (nsp14). In YeRC0M, the lack of yeast mRNA capping N7-MTase in yeast, which is an essential gene in yeast, is complemented by the expression of functional viral N7-MTase or its variants. Using YeRC0M, we first identified important protein domains and amino acid residues that are essential for SARS-CoV-2 nsp14 N7-MTase activity. We also expanded YeRC0M to include key nsp14 variants observed in emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 (e.g., delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 encodes nsp14 A394V and nsp14 P46L). We also combined YeRC0M with directed evolution to identify attenuation mutations in SARS-CoV-2 nsp14. Because of the high sequence similarity of nsp14 in emerging coronaviruses, these observations could have implications on live attenuated vaccine development strategies. These data taken together reveal key domains in SARS-CoV-2 nsp14 that can be targeted for therapeutic strategies. We also anticipate that these readily tractable phenotypic platforms can also be used for the identification of inhibitors of viral RNA capping enzymes as antivirals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marya Y. Ornelas
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Angela Y. Thomas
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - L. Idalee Johnson Rosas
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Riley O. Scoville
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Angad P. Mehta
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 S Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
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17
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Dix TC, Haussmann IU, Brivio S, Nallasivan MP, HadzHiev Y, Müller F, Müller B, Pettitt J, Soller M. CMTr mediated 2'- O-ribose methylation status of cap-adjacent nucleotides across animals. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 28:1377-1390. [PMID: 35970556 PMCID: PMC9479742 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079317.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cap methyltransferases (CMTrs) O methylate the 2' position of the ribose (cOMe) of cap-adjacent nucleotides of animal, protist, and viral mRNAs. Animals generally have two CMTrs, whereas trypanosomes have three, and many viruses encode one in their genome. In the splice leader of mRNAs in trypanosomes, the first four nucleotides contain cOMe, but little is known about the status of cOMe in animals. Here, we show that cOMe is prominently present on the first two cap-adjacent nucleotides with species- and tissue-specific variations in Caenorhabditis elegans, honeybees, zebrafish, mouse, and human cell lines. In contrast, Drosophila contains cOMe primarily on the first cap-adjacent nucleotide. De novo RoseTTA modeling of CMTrs reveals close similarities of the overall structure and near identity for the catalytic tetrad, and for cap and cofactor binding for human, Drosophila and C. elegans CMTrs. Although viral CMTrs maintain the overall structure and catalytic tetrad, they have diverged in cap and cofactor binding. Consistent with the structural similarity, both CMTrs from Drosophila and humans methylate the first cap-adjacent nucleotide of an AGU consensus start. Because the second nucleotide is also methylated upon heat stress in Drosophila, these findings argue for regulated cOMe important for gene expression regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C Dix
- School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- Birmingham Centre for Genome Biology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Irmgard U Haussmann
- Department of Life Science, Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, B15 3TN, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Brivio
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Mohannakarthik P Nallasivan
- School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- Birmingham Centre for Genome Biology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Yavor HadzHiev
- Birmingham Centre for Genome Biology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, United Kingdom
| | - Ferenc Müller
- Birmingham Centre for Genome Biology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, United Kingdom
| | - Berndt Müller
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Pettitt
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Matthias Soller
- School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- Birmingham Centre for Genome Biology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
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18
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Zhang K, Law MCY, Nguyen TM, Tan YB, Wirawan M, Law YS, Jeong LS, Luo D. Molecular basis of specific viral RNA recognition and 5'-end capping by the Chikungunya virus nsP1. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111133. [PMID: 35905713 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Many viruses encode RNA-modifying enzymes to edit the 5' end of viral RNA to mimic the cellular mRNA for effective protein translation, genome replication, and evasion of the host defense mechanisms. Alphavirus nsP1 synthesizes the 5' end Cap-0 structure of viral RNAs. However, the molecular basis of the capping process remains unclear. We determine high-resolution cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of Chikungunya virus nsP1 in complex with m7GTP/SAH, covalently attached m7GMP, and Cap-0 viral RNA. These structures reveal details of viral-RNA-capping reactions and uncover a sequence-specific virus RNA-recognition pattern that, in turn, regulates viral-RNA-capping efficiency to ensure optimal genome replication and subgenomic RNA transcription. This sequence-specific enzyme-RNA pairing is conserved across all alphaviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo Zhang
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 06-01, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| | - Michelle Cheok Yien Law
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 06-01, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Trinh Mai Nguyen
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 06-01, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Yaw Bia Tan
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 06-01, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Melissa Wirawan
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 06-01, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Yee-Song Law
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 06-01, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Lak Shin Jeong
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dahai Luo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 06-01, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore.
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19
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Jung E, Soto-Acosta R, Xie J, Wilson DJ, Dreis CD, Majima R, Edwards TC, Geraghty RJ, Chen L. Bisubstate Inhibitors of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 Nsp14 Methyltransferase. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:1477-1484. [PMID: 36097498 PMCID: PMC9344893 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.2c00265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Eunkyung Jung
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Ruben Soto-Acosta
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Jiashu Xie
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Daniel J. Wilson
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Christine D. Dreis
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Ryuichi Majima
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Tiffany C. Edwards
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Robert J. Geraghty
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Liqiang Chen
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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20
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Schwickert M, Fischer TR, Zimmermann RA, Hoba SN, Meidner JL, Weber M, Weber M, Stark MM, Koch J, Jung N, Kersten C, Windbergs M, Lyko F, Helm M, Schirmeister T. Discovery of Inhibitors of DNA Methyltransferase 2, an Epitranscriptomic Modulator and Potential Target for Cancer Treatment. J Med Chem 2022; 65:9750-9788. [PMID: 35849534 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Selective manipulation of the epitranscriptome could be beneficial for the treatment of cancer and also broaden the understanding of epigenetic inheritance. Inhibitors of the tRNA methyltransferase DNMT2, the enzyme catalyzing the S-adenosylmethionine-dependent methylation of cytidine 38 to 5-methylcytidine, were designed, synthesized, and analyzed for their enzyme-binding and -inhibiting properties. For rapid screening of potential DNMT2 binders, a microscale thermophoresis assay was established. Besides the natural inhibitors S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine (SAH) and sinefungin (SFG), we identified new synthetic inhibitors based on the structure of N-adenosyl-2,4-diaminobutyric acid (Dab). Structure-activity relationship studies revealed the amino acid side chain and a Y-shaped substitution pattern at the 4-position of Dab as crucial for DNMT2 inhibition. The most potent inhibitors are alkyne-substituted derivatives, exhibiting similar binding and inhibitory potencies as the natural compounds SAH and SFG. CaCo-2 assays revealed that poor membrane permeabilities of the acids and rapid hydrolysis of an ethylester prodrug might be the reasons for the insufficient activity in cellulo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marvin Schwickert
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudinger Weg 5, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Tim R Fischer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudinger Weg 5, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Robert A Zimmermann
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudinger Weg 5, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Sabrina N Hoba
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudinger Weg 5, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - J Laurenz Meidner
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudinger Weg 5, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Marlies Weber
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudinger Weg 5, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Moritz Weber
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudinger Weg 5, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Martin M Stark
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudinger Weg 5, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Jonas Koch
- Division of Epigenetics, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nathalie Jung
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Christian Kersten
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudinger Weg 5, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Maike Windbergs
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, D-60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Frank Lyko
- Division of Epigenetics, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mark Helm
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudinger Weg 5, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Tanja Schirmeister
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Staudinger Weg 5, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
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21
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Novel Inhibitors of 2′-O-Methyltransferase of the SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27092721. [PMID: 35566072 PMCID: PMC9100384 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27092721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is still affecting many people worldwide and causing a heavy burden to global health. To eliminate the disease, SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the pandemic, can be targeted in several ways. One of them is to inhibit the 2′-O-methyltransferase (nsp16) enzyme that is crucial for effective translation of viral RNA and virus replication. For methylation of substrates, nsp16 utilizes S-adenosyl methionine (SAM). Binding of a small molecule in the protein site where SAM binds can disrupt the synthesis of viral proteins and, as a result, the replication of the virus. Here, we performed high-throughput docking into the SAM-binding site of nsp16 for almost 40 thousand structures, prepared for compounds from three libraries: Enamine Coronavirus Library, Enamine Nucleoside Mimetics Library, and Chemdiv Nucleoside Analogue Library. For the top scoring ligands, semi-empirical quantum-chemical calculations were performed, to better estimate protein–ligand binding enthalpy. Relying upon the calculated binding energies and predicted docking poses, we selected 21 compounds for experimental testing.
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22
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Fischer TR, Meidner L, Schwickert M, Weber M, Zimmermann RA, Kersten C, Schirmeister T, Helm M. Chemical biology and medicinal chemistry of RNA methyltransferases. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:4216-4245. [PMID: 35412633 PMCID: PMC9071492 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA methyltransferases (MTases) are ubiquitous enzymes whose hitherto low profile in medicinal chemistry, contrasts with the surging interest in RNA methylation, the arguably most important aspect of the new field of epitranscriptomics. As MTases become validated as drug targets in all major fields of biomedicine, the development of small molecule compounds as tools and inhibitors is picking up considerable momentum, in academia as well as in biotech. Here we discuss the development of small molecules for two related aspects of chemical biology. Firstly, derivates of the ubiquitous cofactor S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM) are being developed as bioconjugation tools for targeted transfer of functional groups and labels to increasingly visible targets. Secondly, SAM-derived compounds are being investigated for their ability to act as inhibitors of RNA MTases. Drug development is moving from derivatives of cosubstrates towards higher generation compounds that may address allosteric sites in addition to the catalytic centre. Progress in assay development and screening techniques from medicinal chemistry have led to recent breakthroughs, e.g. in addressing human enzymes targeted for their role in cancer. Spurred by the current pandemic, new inhibitors against coronaviral MTases have emerged at a spectacular rate, including a repurposed drug which is now in clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim R Fischer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Laurenz Meidner
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Marvin Schwickert
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Marlies Weber
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Robert A Zimmermann
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Christian Kersten
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Tanja Schirmeister
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Mark Helm
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
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23
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Malone B, Urakova N, Snijder EJ, Campbell EA. Structures and functions of coronavirus replication-transcription complexes and their relevance for SARS-CoV-2 drug design. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2022; 23:21-39. [PMID: 34824452 PMCID: PMC8613731 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-021-00432-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 197] [Impact Index Per Article: 98.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has killed millions of people and continues to cause massive global upheaval. Coronaviruses are positive-strand RNA viruses with an unusually large genome of ~30 kb. They express an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and a cohort of other replication enzymes and supporting factors to transcribe and replicate their genomes. The proteins performing these essential processes are prime antiviral drug targets, but drug discovery is hindered by our incomplete understanding of coronavirus RNA synthesis and processing. In infected cells, the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase must coordinate with other viral and host factors to produce both viral mRNAs and new genomes. Recent research aiming to decipher and contextualize the structures, functions and interplay of the subunits of the SARS-CoV-2 replication and transcription complex proteins has burgeoned. In this Review, we discuss recent advancements in our understanding of the molecular basis and complexity of the coronavirus RNA-synthesizing machinery. Specifically, we outline the mechanisms and regulation of RNA translation, replication and transcription. We also discuss the composition of the replication and transcription complexes and their suitability as targets for antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Malone
- grid.134907.80000 0001 2166 1519Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY USA
| | - Nadya Urakova
- grid.10419.3d0000000089452978Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Eric J. Snijder
- grid.10419.3d0000000089452978Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Elizabeth A. Campbell
- grid.134907.80000 0001 2166 1519Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY USA
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24
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Ogando NS, El Kazzi P, Zevenhoven-Dobbe JC, Bontes BW, Decombe A, Posthuma CC, Thiel V, Canard B, Ferron F, Decroly E, Snijder EJ. Structure-function analysis of the nsp14 N7-guanine methyltransferase reveals an essential role in Betacoronavirus replication. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2108709118. [PMID: 34845015 PMCID: PMC8670481 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2108709118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As coronaviruses (CoVs) replicate in the host cell cytoplasm, they rely on their own capping machinery to ensure the efficient translation of their messenger RNAs (mRNAs), protect them from degradation by cellular 5' exoribonucleases (ExoNs), and escape innate immune sensing. The CoV nonstructural protein 14 (nsp14) is a bifunctional replicase subunit harboring an N-terminal 3'-to-5' ExoN domain and a C-terminal (N7-guanine)-methyltransferase (N7-MTase) domain that is presumably involved in viral mRNA capping. Here, we aimed to integrate structural, biochemical, and virological data to assess the importance of conserved N7-MTase residues for nsp14's enzymatic activities and virus viability. We revisited the crystal structure of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-CoV nsp14 to perform an in silico comparative analysis between betacoronaviruses. We identified several residues likely involved in the formation of the N7-MTase catalytic pocket, which presents a fold distinct from the Rossmann fold observed in most known MTases. Next, for SARS-CoV and Middle East respiratory syndrome CoV, site-directed mutagenesis of selected residues was used to assess their importance for in vitro enzymatic activity. Most of the engineered mutations abolished N7-MTase activity, while not affecting nsp14-ExoN activity. Upon reverse engineering of these mutations into different betacoronavirus genomes, we identified two substitutions (R310A and F426A in SARS-CoV nsp14) abrogating virus viability and one mutation (H424A) yielding a crippled phenotype across all viruses tested. Our results identify the N7-MTase as a critical enzyme for betacoronavirus replication and define key residues of its catalytic pocket that can be targeted to design inhibitors with a potential pan-coronaviral activity spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natacha S Ogando
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Priscila El Kazzi
- Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Aix-Marseille Université 13288 Marseille, France
| | | | - Brenda W Bontes
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Alice Decombe
- Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Aix-Marseille Université 13288 Marseille, France
| | - Clara C Posthuma
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Volker Thiel
- Institute of Virology and Immunology (IVI) 3350 Bern, Switzerland
- De partment of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Canard
- Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Aix-Marseille Université 13288 Marseille, France
- European Virus Bioinformatics Center (EVBC), Jena 07743, Germany
| | - François Ferron
- Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Aix-Marseille Université 13288 Marseille, France
- European Virus Bioinformatics Center (EVBC), Jena 07743, Germany
| | - Etienne Decroly
- Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Aix-Marseille Université 13288 Marseille, France;
| | - Eric J Snijder
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands;
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25
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NUDT2 initiates viral RNA degradation by removal of 5'-phosphates. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6918. [PMID: 34824277 PMCID: PMC8616924 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27239-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
While viral replication processes are largely understood, comparably little is known on cellular mechanisms degrading viral RNA. Some viral RNAs bear a 5′-triphosphate (PPP-) group that impairs degradation by the canonical 5′-3′ degradation pathway. Here we show that the Nudix hydrolase 2 (NUDT2) trims viral PPP-RNA into monophosphorylated (P)-RNA, which serves as a substrate for the 5′-3′ exonuclease XRN1. NUDT2 removes 5′-phosphates from PPP-RNA in an RNA sequence- and overhang-independent manner and its ablation in cells increases growth of PPP-RNA viruses, suggesting an involvement in antiviral immunity. NUDT2 is highly homologous to bacterial RNA pyrophosphatase H (RppH), a protein involved in the metabolism of bacterial mRNA, which is 5′-tri- or diphosphorylated. Our results show a conserved function between bacterial RppH and mammalian NUDT2, indicating that the function may have adapted from a protein responsible for RNA turnover in bacteria into a protein involved in the immune defense in mammals. RNA of some viruses is protected from degradation by a 5′ triphosphate group. Here the authors identify nudix hydrolase 2 (NUDT2) as novel antiviral defense protein that dephosphorylates viral RNA and thereby enables its degradation.
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26
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Zong K, Xu L, Hou Y, Zhang Q, Che J, Zhao L, Li X. Virtual Screening and Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study of Influenza Polymerase PB2 Inhibitors. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26226944. [PMID: 34834044 PMCID: PMC8623395 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26226944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza A virus is the main cause of worldwide epidemics and annual influenza outbreaks in humans. In this study, a virtual screen was performed to identify compounds that interact with the PB2 cap-binding domain (CBD) of influenza A polymerase. A virtual screening workflow based on Glide docking was used to screen an internal database containing 8417 molecules, and then the output compounds were selected based on solubility, absorbance, and structural fingerprints. Of the 16 compounds selected for biological evaluation, six compounds were identified that rescued cells from H1N1 virus-mediated death at non-cytotoxic concentrations, with EC50 values ranging from 2.5–55.43 μM, and that could bind to the PB2 CBD of H1N1, with Kd values ranging from 0.081–1.53 μM. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the docking complexes of our active compounds revealed that each compound had its own binding characteristics that differed from those of VX-787. Our active compounds have novel structures and unique binding modes with PB2 proteins, and are suitable to serve as lead compounds for the development of PB2 inhibitors. An analysis of the MD simulation also helped us to identify the dominant amino acid residues that play a key role in binding the ligand to PB2, suggesting that we should focus on increasing and enhancing the interaction between inhibitors and these major amino acids during lead compound optimization to obtain more active PB2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keli Zong
- Chemical Engineering and Environmental Engineering, College of Chemistry, Liaoning Shihua University, Fushun 113001, China;
| | - Lei Xu
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China;
| | - Yuxin Hou
- Tianjin Children Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjing 300074, China;
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
- Correspondence: (Q.Z.); (J.C.); (L.Z.); (X.L.); Tel.: +86-21-51980119 (Q.Z.); +86-10-66930633 (J.C.); +86-10-66930673-717 (L.Z.); +86-10-66930634 (X.L.)
| | - Jinjing Che
- Chemical Engineering and Environmental Engineering, College of Chemistry, Liaoning Shihua University, Fushun 113001, China;
- Correspondence: (Q.Z.); (J.C.); (L.Z.); (X.L.); Tel.: +86-21-51980119 (Q.Z.); +86-10-66930633 (J.C.); +86-10-66930673-717 (L.Z.); +86-10-66930634 (X.L.)
| | - Lei Zhao
- Chemical Engineering and Environmental Engineering, College of Chemistry, Liaoning Shihua University, Fushun 113001, China;
- Correspondence: (Q.Z.); (J.C.); (L.Z.); (X.L.); Tel.: +86-21-51980119 (Q.Z.); +86-10-66930633 (J.C.); +86-10-66930673-717 (L.Z.); +86-10-66930634 (X.L.)
| | - Xingzhou Li
- Chemical Engineering and Environmental Engineering, College of Chemistry, Liaoning Shihua University, Fushun 113001, China;
- Correspondence: (Q.Z.); (J.C.); (L.Z.); (X.L.); Tel.: +86-21-51980119 (Q.Z.); +86-10-66930633 (J.C.); +86-10-66930673-717 (L.Z.); +86-10-66930634 (X.L.)
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27
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Thompson MG, Sacco MT, Horner SM. How RNA modifications regulate the antiviral response. Immunol Rev 2021; 304:169-180. [PMID: 34405413 PMCID: PMC8616813 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Induction of the antiviral innate immune response is highly regulated at the RNA level, particularly by RNA modifications. Recent discoveries have revealed how RNA modifications play key roles in cellular surveillance of nucleic acids and in controlling gene expression in response to viral infection. These modifications have emerged as being essential for a functional antiviral response and maintaining cellular homeostasis. In this review, we will highlight these and other discoveries that describe how the antiviral response is controlled by modifications to both viral and cellular RNA, focusing on how mRNA cap modifications, N6-methyladenosine, and RNA editing all contribute to coordinating an efficient response that properly controls viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew G Thompson
- Department of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Matthew T Sacco
- Department of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Stacy M Horner
- Department of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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28
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Abstract
The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has spurred research in the biology of the nidovirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Much focus has been on the viral RNA synthesis machinery due to its fundamental role in viral propagation. The central and essential enzyme of the RNA synthesis process, the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), functions in conjunction with a coterie of viral-encoded enzymes that mediate crucial nucleic acid transactions. Some of these enzymes share common features with other RNA viruses, while others play roles unique to nidoviruses or CoVs. The RdRps are proven targets for viral pathogens, and many of the other nucleic acid processing enzymes are promising targets. The purpose of this review is to summarize recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of RNA synthesis in CoVs. By reflecting on these studies, we hope to emphasize the remaining gaps in our knowledge. The recent onslaught of structural information related to SARS-CoV-2 RNA synthesis, in combination with previous structural, genetic and biochemical studies, have vastly improved our understanding of how CoVs replicate and process their genomic RNA. Structural biology not only provides a blueprint for understanding the function of the enzymes and cofactors in molecular detail, but also provides a basis for drug design and optimization. The concerted efforts of researchers around the world, in combination with the renewed urgency toward understanding this deadly family of viruses, may eventually yield new and improved antivirals that provide relief to the current global devastation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Malone
- The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States
| | | | - Seth A Darst
- The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States.
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29
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Identification and evaluation of potential SARS-CoV-2 antiviral agents targeting mRNA cap guanine N7-Methyltransferase. Antiviral Res 2021; 193:105142. [PMID: 34303749 PMCID: PMC8299157 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2021.105142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the cause of the currently ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, encodes its own mRNA capping machinery. Insights into this capping system may provide new ideas for therapeutic interventions and drug discovery. In this work, we employ a previously developed Py-FLINT screening approach to study the inhibitory effects of compounds against the cap guanine N7-methyltransferase enzyme, which is involved in SARS-CoV-2 mRNA capping. We screened five commercially available libraries (7039 compounds in total) to identify 83 inhibitors with IC50 < 50 μM, which were further validated using RP HPLC and dot blot assays. Novel fluorescence anisotropy binding assays were developed to examine the targeted binding site. The inhibitor structures were analyzed for structure-activity relationships in order to define common structural patterns. Finally, the most potent inhibitors were tested for antiviral activity on SARS-CoV-2 in a cell based assay.
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30
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Devkota K, Schapira M, Perveen S, Khalili Yazdi A, Li F, Chau I, Ghiabi P, Hajian T, Loppnau P, Bolotokova A, Satchell KJF, Wang K, Li D, Liu J, Smil D, Luo M, Jin J, Fish PV, Brown PJ, Vedadi M. Probing the SAM Binding Site of SARS-CoV-2 Nsp14 In Vitro Using SAM Competitive Inhibitors Guides Developing Selective Bisubstrate Inhibitors. SLAS DISCOVERY 2021; 26:1200-1211. [PMID: 34192965 PMCID: PMC8458670 DOI: 10.1177/24725552211026261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has clearly brought the healthcare systems worldwide to a breaking point, along with devastating socioeconomic consequences. The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes the disease, uses RNA capping to evade the human immune system. Nonstructural protein (nsp) 14 is one of the 16 nsps in SARS-CoV-2 and catalyzes the methylation of the viral RNA at N7-guanosine in the cap formation process. To discover small-molecule inhibitors of nsp14 methyltransferase (MTase) activity, we developed and employed a radiometric MTase assay to screen a library of 161 in-house synthesized S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) competitive MTase inhibitors and SAM analogs. Among six identified screening hits, SS148 inhibited nsp14 MTase activity with an IC50 value of 70 ± 6 nM and was selective against 20 human protein lysine MTases, indicating significant differences in SAM binding sites. Interestingly, DS0464 with an IC50 value of 1.1 ± 0.2 µM showed a bisubstrate competitive inhibitor mechanism of action. DS0464 was also selective against 28 out of 33 RNA, DNA, and protein MTases. The structure-activity relationship provided by these compounds should guide the optimization of selective bisubstrate nsp14 inhibitors and may provide a path toward a novel class of antivirals against COVID-19, and possibly other coronaviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Devkota
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Matthieu Schapira
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sumera Perveen
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Fengling Li
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Irene Chau
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Pegah Ghiabi
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Taraneh Hajian
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Peter Loppnau
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Albina Bolotokova
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Karla J F Satchell
- Department of Microbiology-Immunology, Northwestern University, Center for Structural Genomics of Infectious Diseases, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ke Wang
- Chemical Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.,Program of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Deyao Li
- Chemical Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.,Program of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jing Liu
- Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - David Smil
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Minkui Luo
- Chemical Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.,Program of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jian Jin
- Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Paul V Fish
- Alzheimer's Research UK UCL Drug Discovery Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | - Peter J Brown
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Masoud Vedadi
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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31
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Vlachakis D. Genetic and structural analyses of ssRNA viruses pave the way for the discovery of novel antiviral pharmacological targets. Mol Omics 2021; 17:357-364. [PMID: 33725065 DOI: 10.1039/d0mo00173b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In the era of big data and artificial intelligence, a lot of new discoveries have influenced the fields of antiviral drug design and pharmacophore identification. Viruses have always been a threat to society in terms of public health and economic stability. Viruses not only affect humans but also livestock and agriculture with a direct impact on food safety, economy and environmental imprint. Most recently, with the pandemic of COVID-19, it was made clear that a single virus can have a devastating impact on global well-being and economy. In this direction, there is an emerging need for the identification of promising pharmacological targets in viruses. Herein, an effort has been made to discuss the current knowledge, state-of-the-art applications and future implications for the main pharmacological targets of single-stranded RNA viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Vlachakis
- Laboratory of Genetics, Department of Biotechnology, School of Applied BIology and Biotechnology, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
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32
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Perveen S, Khalili Yazdi A, Devkota K, Li F, Ghiabi P, Hajian T, Loppnau P, Bolotokova A, Vedadi M. A High-Throughput RNA Displacement Assay for Screening SARS-CoV-2 nsp10-nsp16 Complex toward Developing Therapeutics for COVID-19. SLAS DISCOVERY : ADVANCING LIFE SCIENCES R & D 2021; 26:620-627. [PMID: 33423577 PMCID: PMC7803792 DOI: 10.1177/2472555220985040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, evades the human immune system by capping its RNA. This process protects the viral RNA and is essential for its replication. Multiple viral proteins are involved in this RNA capping process, including the nonstructural protein 16 (nsp16), which is an S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM)-dependent 2'-O-methyltransferase. Nsp16 is significantly active when in complex with another nonstructural protein, nsp10, which plays a key role in its stability and activity. Here we report the development of a fluorescence polarization (FP)-based RNA displacement assay for nsp10-nsp16 complex in a 384-well format with a Z' factor of 0.6, suitable for high-throughput screening. In this process, we purified the nsp10-nsp16 complex to higher than 95% purity and confirmed its binding to the methyl donor SAM, the product of the reaction, S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine (SAH), and a common methyltransferase inhibitor, sinefungin, using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). The assay was further validated by screening a library of 1124 drug-like compounds. This assay provides a cost-effective high-throughput method for screening the nsp10-nsp16 complex for RNA competitive inhibitors toward developing COVID-19 therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumera Perveen
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Kanchan Devkota
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Fengling Li
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Pegah Ghiabi
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Taraneh Hajian
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Peter Loppnau
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Albina Bolotokova
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Masoud Vedadi
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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33
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Khalili Yazdi A, Li F, Devkota K, Perveen S, Ghiabi P, Hajian T, Bolotokova A, Vedadi M. A High-Throughput Radioactivity-Based Assay for Screening SARS-CoV-2 nsp10-nsp16 Complex. SLAS DISCOVERY 2021; 26:757-765. [PMID: 33874769 PMCID: PMC8216315 DOI: 10.1177/24725552211008863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Frequent outbreaks of novel coronaviruses (CoVs), highlighted by the current severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, necessitate the development of therapeutics that could be easily and effectively administered worldwide. The conserved mRNA-capping process enables CoVs to evade their host immune system and is a target for antiviral development. Nonstructural protein (nsp) 16 in complex with nsp10 catalyzes the final step of coronaviral mRNA capping through its 2'-O-methylation activity. Like other methyltransferases, the SARS-CoV-2 nsp10-nsp16 complex is druggable. However, the availability of an optimized assay for high-throughput screening (HTS) is an unmet need. Here, we report the development of a radioactivity-based assay for the methyltransferase activity of the nsp10-nsp16 complex in a 384-well format, kinetic characterization, and optimization of the assay for HTS (Z' factor = 0.83). Considering the high conservation of nsp16 across known CoV species, the potential inhibitors targeting the SARS-CoV-2 nsp10-nsp16 complex may also be effective against other emerging pathogenic CoVs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fengling Li
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kanchan Devkota
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sumera Perveen
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pegah Ghiabi
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Taraneh Hajian
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Albina Bolotokova
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Masoud Vedadi
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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34
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Hillen HS. Structure and function of SARS-CoV-2 polymerase. Curr Opin Virol 2021; 48:82-90. [PMID: 33945951 PMCID: PMC8023233 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Coronaviruses use an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) to replicate and express their genome. The RdRp associates with additional non-structural proteins (nsps) to form a replication–transcription complex (RTC) that carries out RNA synthesis, capping and proofreading. However, the structure of the RdRp long remained elusive, thus limiting our understanding of coronavirus genome expression and replication. Recently, the cryo-electron microscopy structure of SARS-CoV-1 RdRp was reported. Driven by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, structural data on the SARS-CoV-2 polymerase and associated factors has since emerged at an unprecedented pace, with more than twenty structures released to date. This review provides an overview of the currently available coronavirus RdRp structures and outlines how they have, together with functional studies, led to a molecular understanding of the viral polymerase, its interactions with accessory factors and the mechanisms by which promising antivirals may inhibit coronavirus replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hauke S Hillen
- Department of Cellular Biochemistry, University Medical Center Göttingen, Humboldtallee 23, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany; Research Group Structure and Function of Molecular Machines, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, Am Fassberg 11, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany; Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, D-37075 Göttingen, Germany.
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35
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Devkota K, Schapira M, Perveen S, Yazdi AK, Li F, Chau I, Ghiabi P, Hajian T, Loppnau P, Bolotokova A, Satchell KJF, Wang K, Li D, Liu J, Smil D, Luo M, Jin J, Fish PV, Brown PJ, Vedadi M. Probing the SAM Binding Site of SARS-CoV-2 nsp14 in vitro Using SAM Competitive Inhibitors Guides Developing Selective bi-substrate Inhibitors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2021:2021.02.19.424337. [PMID: 33619486 PMCID: PMC7899450 DOI: 10.1101/2021.02.19.424337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has clearly brought the healthcare systems world-wide to a breaking point along with devastating socioeconomic consequences. The SARS-CoV-2 virus which causes the disease uses RNA capping to evade the human immune system. Non-structural protein (nsp) 14 is one of the 16 nsps in SARS-CoV-2 and catalyzes the methylation of the viral RNA at N7-guanosine in the cap formation process. To discover small molecule inhibitors of nsp14 methyltransferase (MT) activity, we developed and employed a radiometric MT assay to screen a library of 161 in house synthesized S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) competitive methyltransferase inhibitors and SAM analogs. Among seven identified screening hits, SS148 inhibited nsp14 MT activity with an IC 50 value of 70 ± 6 nM and was selective against 20 human protein lysine methyltransferases indicating significant differences in SAM binding sites. Interestingly, DS0464 with IC 50 value of 1.1 ± 0.2 μM showed a bi-substrate competitive inhibitor mechanism of action. Modeling the binding of this compound to nsp14 suggests that the terminal phenyl group extends into the RNA binding site. DS0464 was also selective against 28 out of 33 RNA, DNA, and protein methyltransferases. The structure-activity relationship provided by these compounds should guide the optimization of selective bi-substrate nsp14 inhibitors and may provide a path towards a novel class of antivirals against COVID-19, and possibly other coronaviruses.
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36
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Structural and functional insights into non-structural proteins of coronaviruses. Microb Pathog 2020; 150:104641. [PMID: 33242646 PMCID: PMC7682334 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2020.104641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Coronaviruses (CoVs) are causing a number of human and animal diseases because of their zoonotic nature such as Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). These viruses can infect respiratory, gastrointestinal, hepatic and central nervous systems of human, livestock, birds, bat, mouse, and many wild animals. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a newly emerging respiratory virus and is causing CoVID-19 with high morbidity and considerable mortality. All CoVs belong to the order Nidovirales, family Coronaviridae, are enveloped positive-sense RNA viruses, characterised by club-like spikes on their surfaces and large RNA genome with a distinctive replication strategy. Coronavirus have the largest RNA genomes (~26–32 kilobases) and their expansion was likely enabled by acquiring enzyme functions that counter the commonly high error frequency of viral RNA polymerases. Non-structural proteins (nsp) 7–16 are cleaved from two large replicase polyproteins and guide the replication and processing of coronavirus RNA. Coronavirus replicase has more or less universal activities, such as RNA polymerase (nsp 12) and helicase (nsp 13), as well as a variety of unusual or even special mRNA capping (nsp 14, nsp 16) and fidelity regulation (nsp 14) domains. Besides that, several smaller subunits (nsp 7– nsp 10) serve as essential cofactors for these enzymes and contribute to the emerging “nsp interactome.” In spite of the significant progress in studying coronaviruses structural and functional properties, there is an urgent need to understand the coronaviruses evolutionary success that will be helpful to develop enhanced control strategies. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the structure, function, and interactions of coronaviruses RNA synthesizing machinery and their replication strategies.
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37
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Mahalapbutr P, Kongtaworn N, Rungrotmongkol T. Structural insight into the recognition of S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine and sinefungin in SARS-CoV-2 Nsp16/Nsp10 RNA cap 2'-O-Methyltransferase. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2020; 18:2757-2765. [PMID: 33020707 PMCID: PMC7527316 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2020.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The binding affinity towards SARS-CoV-2 nsp16 of SFG is higher than that of SAH. Asp99 is a key binding residue for SAH and SFG via charge-charge attraction. SFG could electrostatically interact with the 2′-OH and N3 groups of adenosine moiety of RNA substrate. The distance between 2′-OH of RNA and –NH3+ (at 6′ position) of SFG mimics the methyl transfer reaction.
The recent ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues to rapidly spread across the world. To date, neither a specific antiviral drug nor a clinically effective vaccine is available. Among the 15 viral non-structural proteins (nsps), nsp16 methyltransferase has been considered as a potential target due to its crucial role in RNA cap 2′-O-methylation process, preventing the virus detection by cell innate immunity mechanisms. In the present study, molecular recognition between the two natural nucleoside analogs (S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine (SAH) and sinefungin (SFG)) and the SARS-CoV-2 nsp16/nsp10/m7GpppAC5 was studied using all-atom molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations based on MM/GBSA and WaterSwap approaches. The binding affinity and the number of hot-spot residues, atomic contacts, and H-bond formations of SFG/nsp16 complex were distinctly higher than those of SAH/nsp16 system, consistent with the lower water accessibility at the enzyme active site. Notably, only SFG could electrostatically interact with the 2′-OH and N3 of RNA’s adenosine moiety, mimicking the methyl transfer reaction of S-adenosyl-l-methionine substrate. The atomistic binding mechanism obtained from this work paves the way for further optimizations and designs of more specific SARS-CoV-2 nsp16 inhibitors in the fight against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panupong Mahalapbutr
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Napat Kongtaworn
- Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Thanyada Rungrotmongkol
- Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Biocatalyst and Environmental Biotechnology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Corresponding author at: Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
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38
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Omotuyi IO, Nash O, Ajiboye BO, Olumekun VO, Oyinloye BE, Osuntokun OT, Olonisakin A, Ajayi AO, Olusanya O, Akomolafe FS, Adelakun N. Aframomum melegueta secondary metabolites exhibit polypharmacology against SARS-CoV-2 drug targets: in vitro validation of furin inhibition. Phytother Res 2020; 35:908-919. [PMID: 32964551 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic is currently decimating the world's most advanced technologies and largest economies and making its way to the continent of Africa. Weak medical infrastructure and over-reliance on medical aids may eventually predict worse outcomes in Africa. To reverse this trend, Africa must re-evaluate the only area with strategic advantage; phytotherapy. One of the many plants with previous antiviral potency is against RNA viruses is Aframomum melegueta. In this study, one hundred (100) A. melegueta secondary metabolites have been mined and computational evaluated for inhibition of host furin, and SARS-COV-2 targets including 3C-like proteinase (Mpro /3CLpro ), 2'-O-ribose methyltransferase (nsp16) and surface glycoprotein/ACE2 receptor interface. Silica-gel column partitioning of A. melegueta fruit/seed resulted in 6 fractions tested against furin activity. Diarylheptanoid (Letestuianin A), phenylpropanoid (4-Cinnamoyl-3-hydroxy-spiro[furan-5,2'-(1'H)-indene]-1',2,3'(2'H,5H)-trione), flavonoids (Quercetin, Apigenin and Tectochrysin) have been identified as high-binding compounds to SARS-COV-2 targets in a polypharmacology manner. Di-ethyl-ether (IC50 = 0.03 mg/L), acetone (IC50 = 1.564 mg/L), ethyl-acetate (IC50 = 0.382 mg/L) and methanol (IC50 = 0.438 mg/L) fractions demonstrated the best inhibition in kinetic assay while DEF, ASF and MEF completely inhibited furin-recognition sequence containing Ebola virus-pre-glycoprotein. In conclusion, A. melegueta and its secondary metabolites have potential for addressing the therapeutic needs of African population during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Olaposi Omotuyi
- Chemo-Genomics Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba, Nigeria.,Chemoinformatics Unit, Mols & Sims, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Oyekanmi Nash
- Center for Genomics Research and Innovation, National Biotechnology Development Agency, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Basiru O Ajiboye
- Phytomedicine, Biochemical Toxicology and Biotechnology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Victor O Olumekun
- Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba, Nigeria
| | - Babatunji E Oyinloye
- Phytomedicine, Biochemical Toxicology and Biotechnology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria.,Biotechnology and Structural Biology (BSB) Group, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa
| | - Oludare T Osuntokun
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba, Nigeria
| | - Adebisi Olonisakin
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba, Nigeria
| | - A Olajide Ajayi
- Department of Microbiology, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba, Nigeria
| | - Olasehinde Olusanya
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
| | | | - Niyi Adelakun
- Chemoinformatics Unit, Mols & Sims, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
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39
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Hartenian E, Nandakumar D, Lari A, Ly M, Tucker JM, Glaunsinger BA. The molecular virology of coronaviruses. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:12910-12934. [PMID: 32661197 PMCID: PMC7489918 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.rev120.013930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 302] [Impact Index Per Article: 75.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Few human pathogens have been the focus of as much concentrated worldwide attention as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the cause of COVID-19. Its emergence into the human population and ensuing pandemic came on the heels of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), two other highly pathogenic coronavirus spillovers, which collectively have reshaped our view of a virus family previously associated primarily with the common cold. It has placed intense pressure on the collective scientific community to develop therapeutics and vaccines, whose engineering relies on a detailed understanding of coronavirus biology. Here, we present the molecular virology of coronavirus infection, including its entry into cells, its remarkably sophisticated gene expression and replication mechanisms, its extensive remodeling of the intracellular environment, and its multifaceted immune evasion strategies. We highlight aspects of the viral life cycle that may be amenable to antiviral targeting as well as key features of its biology that await discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ella Hartenian
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Divya Nandakumar
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Azra Lari
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Michael Ly
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Jessica M Tucker
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Britt A Glaunsinger
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA; Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA.
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40
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Management of epigenomic networks entailed in coronavirus infections and COVID-19. Clin Epigenetics 2020; 12:118. [PMID: 32758273 PMCID: PMC7404079 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00912-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses (CoVs) are highly diverse single-stranded RNA viruses owing to their susceptibility to numerous genomic mutations and recombination. Such viruses involve human and animal pathogens including the etiologic agents of acute respiratory tract illnesses: severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), and the highly morbific SARS-CoV-2. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), an emerging disease with a quick rise in infected cases and deaths, was recently identified causing a worldwide pandemic. COVID-19 disease outcomes were found to increase in elderly and patients with a compromised immune system. Evidences indicated that the main culprit behind COVID-19 deaths is the cytokine storm, which is illustrated by an uncontrolled over-production of soluble markers of inflammation. The regulation process of coronavirus pathogenesis through molecular mechanism comprise virus-host interactions linked to viral entry, replication and transcription, escape, and immune system control. Recognizing coronavirus infections and COVID-19 through epigenetics lens will lead to potential alteration in gene expression thus limiting coronavirus infections. Focusing on epigenetic therapies reaching clinical trials, clinically approved epigenetic-targeted agents, and combination therapy of antivirals and epigenetic drugs is currently considered an effective and valuable approach for viral replication and inflammatory overdrive control.
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41
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Gupta A, Bansal M. RNA-mediated translation regulation in viral genomes: computational advances in the recognition of sequences and structures. Brief Bioinform 2020; 21:1151-1163. [PMID: 31204430 PMCID: PMC7109810 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbz054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA structures are widely distributed across all life forms. The global conformation of these structures is defined by a variety of constituent structural units such as helices, hairpin loops, kissing-loop motifs and pseudoknots, which often behave in a modular way. Their ubiquitous distribution is associated with a variety of functions in biological processes. The location of these structures in the genomes of RNA viruses is often coordinated with specific processes in the viral life cycle, where the presence of the structure acts as a checkpoint for deciding the eventual fate of the process. These structures have been found to adopt complex conformations and exert their effects by interacting with ribosomes, multiple host translation factors and small RNA molecules like miRNA. A number of such RNA structures have also been shown to regulate translation in viruses at the level of initiation, elongation or termination. The role of various computational studies in the preliminary identification of such sequences and/or structures and subsequent functional analysis has not been fully appreciated. This review aims to summarize the processes in which viral RNA structures have been found to play an active role in translational regulation, their global conformational features and the bioinformatics/computational tools available for the identification and prediction of these structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmita Gupta
- Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Manju Bansal
- Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
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42
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Overcoming nonstructural protein 15-nidoviral uridylate-specific endoribonuclease (nsp15/NendoU) activity of SARS-CoV-2. FUTURE DRUG DISCOVERY 2020. [PMCID: PMC7255426 DOI: 10.4155/fdd-2020-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has become the gravest global public health crisis since the Spanish Flu of 1918. Combination antiviral therapy with repurposed broad-spectrum antiviral agents holds a highly promising immediate treatment strategy, especially given uncertainties of vaccine efficacy and developmental timeline. Here, we describe a novel hypothetical approach: combining available broad-spectrum antiviral agents such as nucleoside analogs with potential inhibitors of NendoU, for example nsp15 RNA substrate mimetics. While only hypothesis-generating, this approach may constitute a ‘double-hit’ whereby two CoV-unique protein elements of the replicase–transcriptase complex are inhibited simultaneously; this may be an Achilles' heel and precipitate lethal mutagenesis in a coronavirus. It remains to be seen whether structurally optimized RNA substrate mimetics in combination with clinically approved and repurposed backbone antivirals can synergistically inhibit this endonuclease in vitro, thus fulfilling the ‘double-hit hypothesis’.
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43
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Selvaraj C, Dinesh DC, Panwar U, Abhirami R, Boura E, Singh SK. Structure-based virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulation of SARS-CoV-2 Guanine-N7 methyltransferase (nsp14) for identifying antiviral inhibitors against COVID-19. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2020; 39:4582-4593. [PMID: 32567979 PMCID: PMC7332868 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2020.1778535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The recent pandemic caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) calls the whole world into a medical emergency. For tackling Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), researchers from around the world are swiftly working on designing and identifying inhibitors against all possible viral key protein targets. One of the attractive drug targets is guanine-N7 methyltransferase which plays the main role in capping the 5′-ends of viral genomic RNA and sub genomic RNAs, to escape the host’s innate immunity. We performed homology modeling and molecular dynamic (MD) simulation, in order to understand the molecular architecture of Guanosine-P3-Adenosine-5’,5’-Triphosphate (G3A) binding with C-terminal N7-MTase domain of nsp14 from SARS-CoV-2. The residue Asn388 is highly conserved in present both in N7-MTase from SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 and displays a unique function in G3A binding. For an in-depth understanding of these substrate specificities, we tried to screen and identify inhibitors from the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) database. The combination of several computational approaches, including screening, MM/GBSA, MD simulations, and PCA calculations, provides the screened compounds that readily interact with the G3A binding site of homology modeled N7-MTase domain. Compounds from this screening will have strong potency towards inhibiting the substrate-binding and efficiently hinder the viral 5’-end RNA capping mechanism. We strongly believe the final compounds can become COVID-19 therapeutics, with huge international support. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandrabose Selvaraj
- Computer Aided Drug Design and Molecular Modeling Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Karaikudi, India
| | - Dhurvas Chandrasekaran Dinesh
- Section of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry AS CR, v.v.i, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Umesh Panwar
- Computer Aided Drug Design and Molecular Modeling Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Karaikudi, India
| | - Rajaram Abhirami
- Computer Aided Drug Design and Molecular Modeling Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Karaikudi, India
| | - Evzen Boura
- Section of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry AS CR, v.v.i, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Sanjeev Kumar Singh
- Computer Aided Drug Design and Molecular Modeling Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Karaikudi, India
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44
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Yoon JS, Kim G, Jarhad DB, Kim HR, Shin YS, Qu S, Sahu PK, Kim HO, Lee HW, Wang SB, Kong YJ, Chang TS, Ogando NS, Kovacikova K, Snijder EJ, Posthuma CC, van Hemert MJ, Jeong LS. Design, Synthesis, and Anti-RNA Virus Activity of 6'-Fluorinated-Aristeromycin Analogues. J Med Chem 2019; 62:6346-6362. [PMID: 31244113 PMCID: PMC7075649 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The 6'-fluorinated aristeromycins were designed as dual-target antiviral compounds aimed at inhibiting both the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and the host cell S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine (SAH) hydrolase, which would indirectly target capping of viral RNA. The introduction of a fluorine at the 6'-position enhanced the inhibition of SAH hydrolase and the activity against RNA viruses. The adenosine and N6-methyladenosine analogues 2a-e showed potent inhibition against SAH hydrolase, while only the adenosine derivatives 2a-c exhibited potent antiviral activity against all tested RNA viruses such as Middle East respiratory syndrome-coronavirus (MERS-CoV), severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus, chikungunya virus, and/or Zika virus. 6',6'-Difluoroaristeromycin (2c) showed the strongest antiviral effect for MERS-CoV, with a ∼2.5 log reduction in infectious progeny titer in viral load reduction assay. The phosphoramidate prodrug 3a also demonstrated potent broad-spectrum antiviral activity, possibly by inhibiting the viral RdRp. This study shows that 6'-fluorinated aristeromycins can serve as starting points for the development of broad-spectrum antiviral agents that target RNA viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Seong Yoon
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , Seoul National University , Seoul 151-742 , Korea
| | - Gyudong Kim
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , Seoul National University , Seoul 151-742 , Korea.,College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Drug Development , Chonnam National University , Gwangju 500-757 , Korea
| | - Dnyandev B Jarhad
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , Seoul National University , Seoul 151-742 , Korea
| | - Hong-Rae Kim
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , Seoul National University , Seoul 151-742 , Korea
| | - Young-Sup Shin
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , Seoul National University , Seoul 151-742 , Korea
| | - Shuhao Qu
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , Seoul National University , Seoul 151-742 , Korea.,College of Pharmaceutical Engineering , Henan University of Animal Husbandry and Economy , Zhengzhou , 450046 , China
| | | | - Hea Ok Kim
- Future Medicine Co., Ltd. , Seoul 06665 , Korea
| | | | - Su Bin Wang
- College of Pharmacy , Ewha Womans University , Seoul 120-750 , Korea
| | - Yun Jeong Kong
- College of Pharmacy , Ewha Womans University , Seoul 120-750 , Korea
| | - Tong-Shin Chang
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , Seoul National University , Seoul 151-742 , Korea.,College of Pharmacy , Ewha Womans University , Seoul 120-750 , Korea
| | - Natacha S Ogando
- Department of Medical Microbiology , Leiden University Medical Center , Albinusdreef 2 , 2333ZA Leiden , The Netherlands
| | - Kristina Kovacikova
- Department of Medical Microbiology , Leiden University Medical Center , Albinusdreef 2 , 2333ZA Leiden , The Netherlands
| | - Eric J Snijder
- Department of Medical Microbiology , Leiden University Medical Center , Albinusdreef 2 , 2333ZA Leiden , The Netherlands
| | - Clara C Posthuma
- Department of Medical Microbiology , Leiden University Medical Center , Albinusdreef 2 , 2333ZA Leiden , The Netherlands
| | - Martijn J van Hemert
- Department of Medical Microbiology , Leiden University Medical Center , Albinusdreef 2 , 2333ZA Leiden , The Netherlands
| | - Lak Shin Jeong
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , Seoul National University , Seoul 151-742 , Korea
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45
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Brisse ME, Ly H. Hemorrhagic Fever-Causing Arenaviruses: Lethal Pathogens and Potent Immune Suppressors. Front Immunol 2019; 10:372. [PMID: 30918506 PMCID: PMC6424867 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemorrhagic fevers (HF) resulting from pathogenic arenaviral infections have traditionally been neglected as tropical diseases primarily affecting African and South American regions. There are currently no FDA-approved vaccines for arenaviruses, and treatments have been limited to supportive therapy and use of non-specific nucleoside analogs, such as Ribavirin. Outbreaks of arenaviral infections have been limited to certain geographic areas that are endemic but known cases of exportation of arenaviruses from endemic regions and socioeconomic challenges for local control of rodent reservoirs raise serious concerns about the potential for larger outbreaks in the future. This review synthesizes current knowledge about arenaviral evolution, ecology, transmission patterns, life cycle, modulation of host immunity, disease pathogenesis, as well as discusses recent development of preventative and therapeutic pursuits against this group of deadly viral pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan E Brisse
- Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States.,Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Hinh Ly
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
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46
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Ahmad Z, Poh CL. The Conserved Molecular Determinants of Virulence in Dengue Virus. Int J Med Sci 2019; 16:355-365. [PMID: 30911269 PMCID: PMC6428985 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.29938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dengue virus belongs to the Flaviviridae family which also includes viruses such as the Zika, West Nile and yellow fever virus. Dengue virus generally causes mild disease, however, more severe forms of the dengue virus infection, dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue haemorrhagic fever with shock syndrome (DSS) can also occur, resulting in multiple organ failure and even death, especially in children. The only dengue vaccine available in the market, CYD-TDV offers limited coverage for vaccinees from 9-45 years of age and is only recommended for individuals with prior dengue exposure. A number of mutations that were shown to attenuate virulence of dengue virus in vitro and/or in vivo have been identified in the literature. The mutations which fall within the conserved regions of all four dengue serotypes are discussed. This review hopes to provide information leading to the construction of a live attenuated dengue vaccine that is suitable for all ages, irrespective of the infecting dengue serotype and prior dengue exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuleeza Ahmad
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chit Laa Poh
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
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47
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Trotman JB, Schoenberg *DR. A recap of RNA recapping. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2019; 10:e1504. [PMID: 30252202 PMCID: PMC6294674 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The N7-methylguanosine cap is a hallmark of the 5' end of eukaryotic mRNAs and is required for gene expression. Loss of the cap was believed to lead irreversibly to decay. However, nearly a decade ago, it was discovered that mammalian cells contain enzymes in the cytoplasm that are capable of restoring caps onto uncapped RNAs. In this review, we summarize recent advances in our understanding of cytoplasmic RNA recapping and discuss the biochemistry of this process and its impact on regulating and diversifying the transcriptome. Although most studies focus on mammalian RNA recapping, we also highlight new observations for recapping in disparate eukaryotic organisms, with the trypanosome recapping system appearing to be a fascinating example of convergent evolution. We conclude with emerging insights into the biological significance of RNA recapping and prospects for the future of this evolving area of study. This article is categorized under: RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification Translation > Translation Regulation RNA Processing > Capping and 5' End Modifications RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackson B. Trotman
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210,
| | - *Daniel R. Schoenberg
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, schoenberg,
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48
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Saw WG, Pan A, Subramanian Manimekalai MS, Grüber A, Grüber G. Structure and flexibility of non-structural proteins 3 and -5 of Dengue- and Zika viruses in solution. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 143:67-77. [PMID: 30171868 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2018.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Dengue- (DENV) and Zika viruses (ZIKV) rely on their non-structural protein 5 (NS5) including a methyl-transferase (MTase) and a RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) for capping and synthesis of the viral RNA, and the non-structural protein 3 (NS3) with its protease and helicase domain for polyprotein possessing, unwinding dsRNA proceeding replication, and NTPase/RTPase activities. Accumulation of data for DENV- and ZIKV NS3 and NS5 in solution during recent years provides information about their overall shape, substrate-induced alterations, oligomeric forms and flexibility, with the latter being essential for domain-domain crosstalk. The importance and differences of the linker regions that connect the two domains of NS3 or NS5 are highlighted in particular with respect to the different DENV serotypes (DENV-1 to -4) as well as to the sequence diversities between the DENV and ZIKV proteins. Novel mutants of the French Polynesia ZIKV NS3 linker presented, identify critical residues in protein stability and enzymatic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wuan Geok Saw
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Biological Sciences, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore
| | - Ankita Pan
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Biological Sciences, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore
| | | | - Ardina Grüber
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Biological Sciences, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore
| | - Gerhard Grüber
- Nanyang Technological University, School of Biological Sciences, 60 Nanyang Drive, 637551, Singapore.
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49
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Dwivedi VD, Tripathi IP, Tripathi RC, Bharadwaj S, Mishra SK. Genomics, proteomics and evolution of dengue virus. Brief Funct Genomics 2018; 16:217-227. [PMID: 28073742 DOI: 10.1093/bfgp/elw040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The genome of a pathogenic organism possesses a specific order of nucleotides that contains not only information about the synthesis and expression of proteomes, which are required for its growth and survival, but also about its evolution. Inhibition of any particular protein, which is required for the survival of that pathogenic organism, can be used as a potential therapeutic target for the development of effective drugs to treat its infections. In this review, the genomics, proteomics and evolution of dengue virus have been discussed, which will be helpful in better understanding of its origin, growth, survival and evolution, and may contribute toward development of new efficient anti-dengue drugs.
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50
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Toenshoff ER, Fields PD, Bourgeois YX, Ebert D. The End of a 60-year Riddle: Identification and Genomic Characterization of an Iridovirus, the Causative Agent of White Fat Cell Disease in Zooplankton. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2018; 8:1259-1272. [PMID: 29487186 PMCID: PMC5873915 DOI: 10.1534/g3.117.300429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The planktonic freshwater crustacean of the genus Daphnia are a model system for biomedical research and, in particular, invertebrate-parasite interactions. Up until now, no virus has been characterized for this system. Here we report the discovery of an iridovirus as the causative agent of White Fat Cell Disease (WFCD) in Daphnia WFCD is a highly virulent disease of Daphnia that can easily be cultured under laboratory conditions. Although it has been studied from sites across Eurasia for more than 60 years, its causative agent had not been described, nor had an iridovirus been connected to WFCD before now. Here we find that an iridovirus-the Daphnia iridescent virus 1 (DIV-1)-is the causative agent of WFCD. DIV-1 has a genome sequence of about 288 kbp, with 39% G+C content and encodes 367 predicted open reading frames. DIV-1 clusters together with other invertebrate iridoviruses but has by far the largest genome among all sequenced iridoviruses. Comparative genomics reveal that DIV-1 has apparently recently lost a substantial number of unique genes but has also gained genes by horizontal gene transfer from its crustacean host. DIV-1 represents the first invertebrate iridovirus that encodes proteins to purportedly cap RNA, and it contains unique genes for a DnaJ-like protein, a membrane glycoprotein and protein of the immunoglobulin superfamily, which may mediate host-pathogen interactions and pathogenicity. Our findings end a 60-year search for the causative agent of WFCD and add to our knowledge of iridovirus genomics and invertebrate-virus interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena R Toenshoff
- Basel University, Department of Environmental Sciences, Zoology, Vesalgasse 1, CH-4051 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Peter D Fields
- Basel University, Department of Environmental Sciences, Zoology, Vesalgasse 1, CH-4051 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yann X Bourgeois
- Basel University, Department of Environmental Sciences, Zoology, Vesalgasse 1, CH-4051 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dieter Ebert
- Basel University, Department of Environmental Sciences, Zoology, Vesalgasse 1, CH-4051 Basel, Switzerland
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