1
|
Narh JK, Casillas-Vega NG, Zarate X. LL-37_Renalexin hybrid peptide exhibits antimicrobial activity at lower MICs than its counterpart single peptides. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:126. [PMID: 38229302 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12887-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
An alarming global public health and economic peril has been the emergence of antibiotic resistance resulting from clinically relevant bacteria pathogens, including Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumonia, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species constantly exhibiting intrinsic and extrinsic resistance mechanisms against last-resort antibiotics like gentamycin, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, colistin, and standard ampicillin prescription in clinical practices. The discovery and applications of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with antibacterial properties have been considered and proven as alternative antimicrobial agents to antibiotics. In this study, we have designed, produced, and purified a recombinant novel multifunctional hybrid antimicrobial peptide LL-37_Renalexin for the first time via the application of newly designed flexible GS peptide linker coupled with the use of our previously characterized small metal-binding proteins SmbP and CusF3H+ as carrier proteins that allow for an enhanced bacterial expression, using BL21(DE3) and SHuffle T7(DE3) Escherichia coli strains, and purification of the hybrid peptide via immobilized metal affinity chromatography. The purified tag-free LL-37_Renalexin hybrid peptide exhibited above 85% reduction in bacteria colony-forming units and broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria clinical isolates at a lower minimum inhibition concentration level (10-33 μM) as compared to its counterpart single-AMPs LL-37 and Renalexin (50-100 μM). KEY POINTS: • The hybrid antimicrobial peptide LL-37_Renalexin has been designed using a GS linker. • The peptide was expressed with the carrier proteins SmbP and CusF3H+. • The hybrid peptide shows antibacterial potency against clinical bacterial isolates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julius Kwesi Narh
- Facultad de Ciencias Quimicas, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Avenida Universidad s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, 66455, San Nicolas de los Garza, NL, Mexico
| | - Nestor G Casillas-Vega
- Departamento de Patologia Clinica, Hospital Universitario Dr. Jose Eleuterio Gonzalez, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, 64460, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - Xristo Zarate
- Facultad de Ciencias Quimicas, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Avenida Universidad s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, 66455, San Nicolas de los Garza, NL, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ye P, Yang Y, Qu Y, Yang W, Tan J, Zhang C, Sun D, Zhang J, Zhao W, Guo S, Song L, Hou T, Zhang Z, Tang Y, Limjunyawong N, Xu J, Dong S, Dou C, Luo F. LL-37 and bisphosphonate co-delivery 3D-scaffold with antimicrobial and antiresorptive activities for bone regeneration. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 277:134091. [PMID: 39059543 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
This study introduces a novel 3D scaffold for bone regeneration, composed of silk fibroin, chitosan, nano-hydroxyapatite, LL-37 antimicrobial peptide, and pamidronate. The scaffold addresses a critical need in bone tissue engineering by simultaneously combating bone infections and promoting bone growth. LL-37 was incorporated for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, while pamidronate was included to inhibit bone resorption. The scaffold's porous structure, essential for cell infiltration and nutrient diffusion, was achieved through a freeze-drying process. In vitro assessments using SEM and FTIR confirmed the scaffold's morphology and chemical integrity. Antimicrobial efficacy was tested against pathogens of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). In vivo studies in a murine model of infectious bone defect revealed the scaffold's effectiveness in reducing inflammation and bacterial load, and promoting bone regeneration. RNA sequencing of treated specimens provided insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying these observations, revealing significant gene expression changes related to bone healing and immune response modulation. The results indicate that the scaffold effectively inhibits bacterial growth and supports bone cell functions, making it a promising candidate for treating infectious bone defects. Future studies should focus on optimizing the release of therapeutic agents and evaluating the scaffold's clinical potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng Ye
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China; Department of Emergency, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China
| | - Yusheng Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Ying Qu
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Wenxin Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Jiulin Tan
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Chengmin Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Dong Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Weikang Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400042, China
| | - Shuquan Guo
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400042, China
| | - Lei Song
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Tianyong Hou
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Zehua Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yong Tang
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Nathachit Limjunyawong
- Center of Research Excellence in Allergy and Immunology, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
| | - Jianzhong Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Shiwu Dong
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China; Department of Biomedical Materials Science, School of Biomedical Engineering, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
| | - Ce Dou
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Fei Luo
- Department of Orthopedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jandl B, Dighe S, Gasche C, Makristathis A, Muttenthaler M. Intestinal biofilms: pathophysiological relevance, host defense, and therapeutic opportunities. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0013323. [PMID: 38995034 PMCID: PMC11391705 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00133-23] [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: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYThe human intestinal tract harbors a profound variety of microorganisms that live in symbiosis with the host and each other. It is a complex and highly dynamic environment whose homeostasis directly relates to human health. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and polymicrobial biofilms have been associated with gastrointestinal diseases, including irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases, and colorectal cancers. This review covers the molecular composition and organization of intestinal biofilms, mechanistic aspects of biofilm signaling networks for bacterial communication and behavior, and synergistic effects in polymicrobial biofilms. It further describes the clinical relevance and diseases associated with gut biofilms, the role of biofilms in antimicrobial resistance, and the intestinal host defense system and therapeutic strategies counteracting biofilms. Taken together, this review summarizes the latest knowledge and research on intestinal biofilms and their role in gut disorders and provides directions toward the development of biofilm-specific treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Jandl
- Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Doctoral School in Chemistry (DoSChem), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Satish Dighe
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Christoph Gasche
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Loha for Life, Center for Gastroenterology and Iron Deficiency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Athanasios Makristathis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Microbiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Muttenthaler
- Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tegehall A, Ingvast S, Krogvold L, Dahl-Jørgensen K, Korsgren O. Reduced expression of central innate defense molecules in pancreatic biopsies from subjects with Type 1 diabetes. Acta Diabetol 2024; 61:1117-1127. [PMID: 38717484 PMCID: PMC11379773 DOI: 10.1007/s00592-024-02286-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Defensins play a crucial role in the innate immune system's first defense against microbial threats. However, little is known about the defensin system in the pancreas, especially in relation to Type 1 diabetes. We explore the expression of defensins in different disease stages of Type 1 diabetes and correlated obtained findings to the degree of inflammation, providing new insights into the disease and the innate immune system. MATERIAL AND METHODS Pancreases from non-diabetic human organ donors of different age groups and donors with Type 1 diabetes with different disease duration were examined. Sections from head, body and tail of the pancreas were stained for eight different defensins and for immune cells; CD3+, CD45+, CD68+ and NES+ (granulocytes). RESULTS In non-diabetic adult controls the level of expression for defensins Beta-1,Alpha-1, Cathelicidin and REG3A correlated with the level of inflammation. In contrast, individuals with Type 1 diabetes exhibit a reduction or absence of several central defensins regardless of the level of inflammation in their pancreas. The expression of Cathelicidin is present in neutrophils and macrophages but not in T-cells in subjects with Type 1 diabetes. CONCLUSIONS Obtained findings suggest a pancreatic dysfunction in the innate immune system and the bridging to the adaptive system in Type 1 diabetes. Further studies on the role of the local innate immune system in Type 1 diabetes is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angie Tegehall
- Rudbeck Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Sofie Ingvast
- Rudbeck Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lars Krogvold
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Knut Dahl-Jørgensen
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Olle Korsgren
- Rudbeck Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Moule MG, Benjamin AB, Burger ML, Herlan C, Lebedev M, Lin JS, Koster KJ, Wavare N, Adams LG, Bräse S, Munoz-Medina R, Cannon CL, Barron AE, Cirillo JD. Peptide-mimetic treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a mouse model of respiratory infection. Commun Biol 2024; 7:1033. [PMID: 39174819 PMCID: PMC11341572 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06725-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The rise of drug resistance has become a global crisis, with >1 million deaths due to resistant bacterial infections each year. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in particular, remains a serious problem with limited solutions due to complex resistance mechanisms that now lead to more than 32,000 multidrug-resistant (MDR) infections and over 2000 deaths in the U.S. annually. While the emergence of resistant bacteria has become ominously common, identification of useful new drug classes has been limited over the past over 40 years. We found that a potential novel therapeutic, the peptide-mimetic TM5, is effective at killing P. aeruginosa and displays sufficiently low toxicity in mammalian cells to allow for use in treatment of infections. Interestingly, TM5 kills P. aeruginosa more rapidly than traditional antibiotics, within 30-60 min in vitro, and is effective against a range of clinical isolates, including extensively drug resistant strains. In vivo, TM5 significantly reduced bacterial load in the lungs within 24 h compared to untreated mice and demonstrated few adverse effects. Taken together, these observations suggest that TM5 shows promise as an alternative therapy for MDR P. aeruginosa respiratory infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine G Moule
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA
- Institute of Immunology & Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Aaron B Benjamin
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Melanie L Burger
- Institute of Immunology & Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Claudine Herlan
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems - Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Maxim Lebedev
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Jennifer S Lin
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University Schools of Medicine and of Engineering, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kent J Koster
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Neha Wavare
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Leslie G Adams
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Stefan Bräse
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems - Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Ricardo Munoz-Medina
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Carolyn L Cannon
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Annelise E Barron
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University Schools of Medicine and of Engineering, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Jeffrey D Cirillo
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Bryan, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pennone V, Angelini E, Sarlah D, Lovati AB. Antimicrobial Properties and Cytotoxicity of LL-37-Derived Synthetic Peptides to Treat Orthopedic Infections. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:764. [PMID: 39200064 PMCID: PMC11350787 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13080764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Open fractures and prosthetic joints are prone to bacterial infections, especially those involving biofilms, and are worsened by antibiotic inefficacy and resistance. This highlights the need for targeted treatments against orthopedic infections. LL-37, a human cathelicidin, is known for its antimicrobial properties. This study aimed to synthesize and evaluate LL-37-derived antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) for antibacterial efficacy and toxicity. Several truncated LL-37 analogues were created and tested against 18 bacterial strains, both ATCC and orthopedic clinical isolates, using MIC and MBC assays. Synergy with antibiotics and resistance development were also analyzed, alongside cytotoxicity on NIH-3T3 fibroblasts and hemolytic activity assessments. Six AMPs were synthesized, with FK-16 and GF-17 emerging as the most effective. The MIC values ranged from 4.69 to 18.75 µg/mL and 2.34 to 18.75 µg/mL, respectively, against S. epidermidis and S. aureus, with the MBC values matching the MIC values. Cytotoxicity tests showed no toxicity at concentrations below 75 µg/mL for GF-17 and 150 µg/mL for FK-16. Hemolytic activity was below 1% at 18.75 µg/mL for GF-17 and 75 µg/mL for FK-16. These AMPs showed no synergistic effects with antibiotics and no resistance development. FK-16 and GF-17 effectively removed biofilms, particularly against S. epidermidis. Incorporating these AMPs into surgical materials (hydrogels, cements, etc.) could enhance infection control in orthopedic procedures, warranting further in vivo studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Pennone
- Cell and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, 20157 Milan, Italy;
| | - Elisa Angelini
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (E.A.); (D.S.)
| | - David Sarlah
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (E.A.); (D.S.)
- Department of Chemistry, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology and Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Arianna B. Lovati
- Cell and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, 20157 Milan, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Poole JA, Zamora-Sifuentes JL, De Las Vecillas L, Quirce S. Respiratory Diseases Associated With Organic Dust Exposure. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:1960-1971. [PMID: 38423290 PMCID: PMC11316665 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.02.022] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Organic dusts are complex bioaerosol mixtures comprised of dust and par ticulate matter of organic origin. These include components from bacteria, fungi, pollen, and viruses to fragments of animals and plants commonplace to several environmental/occupational settings encompassing agriculture/farming, grain processing, waste/recycling, textile, cotton, woodworking, bird breeding, and more. Organic dust exposures are linked to development of chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, asthma-like syndrome, byssinosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Risk factors of disease development include cumulative dust exposure, smoking, atopy, timing/duration, and nutritional factors. The immunopathogenesis predominantly involves Toll-like receptor signaling cascade, T-helper 1/T-helper 17 lymphocyte responses, neutrophil influx, and potentiation of manifestations associated with allergy. The true prevalence of airway disease directly attributed to organic dust, especially in a workplace setting, remains challenging. Diagnostic confirmation can be difficult and complicated by hesitancy from workers to seek medical care, driven by fears of potential labor-related consequence. Clinical respiratory and systemic presentations coupled with allergy testing, lung function patterns of obstructive versus restrictive disease, and radiological characteristics are typically utilized to delineate these various organic dust-associated respiratory diseases. Prevention, risk reduction, and management primarily focus on reducing exposure to the offending dust, managing symptoms, and preventing disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jill A Poole
- Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Neb.
| | - Jose L Zamora-Sifuentes
- Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Neb
| | | | - Santiago Quirce
- Department of Allergy, La Paz University of Hospital, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain; CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Li C, Cai Y, Luo L, Tian G, Wang X, Yan A, Wang L, Wu S, Wu Z, Zhang T, Chen W, Zhang Z. TC-14, a cathelicidin-derived antimicrobial peptide with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and high safety profile. iScience 2024; 27:110404. [PMID: 39092176 PMCID: PMC11292558 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cathelicidins, a major class of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), hold considerable potential for antimicrobial drug development. In the present study, we identified a novel cathelicidin AMP (TC-33) derived from the Chinese tree shrew. Despite TC-33 demonstrating weak antimicrobial activity, the novel peptide TC-14, developed based on its active region, exhibited a 432-fold increase in antimicrobial activity over the parent peptide. Structural analysis revealed that TC-14 adopted an amphipathic α-helical conformation. The bactericidal mechanism of TC-14 involved targeting and disrupting the bacterial membrane, leading to rapid membrane permeabilization and rupture. Furthermore, TC-14 exhibited a high-safety profile, as evidenced by the absence of cytotoxic and hemolytic activities, as well as high biocompatibility and safety in vivo. Of note, its potent antimicrobial activity provided significant protection in a murine model of skin infection. Overall, this study presents TC-14 as a promising drug candidate for antimicrobial drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Li
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650031, Yunnan, China
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital Yunnan, Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Ying Cai
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650031, Yunnan, China
| | - Lin Luo
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650031, Yunnan, China
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital Yunnan, Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Gengzhou Tian
- Department of Breast Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Xingyu Wang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650031, Yunnan, China
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - An Yan
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650031, Yunnan, China
| | - Liunan Wang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650031, Yunnan, China
| | - Sijing Wu
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650031, Yunnan, China
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Zhongxiang Wu
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650031, Yunnan, China
| | - Tianyu Zhang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650031, Yunnan, China
| | - Wenlin Chen
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital Yunnan, Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhiye Zhang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650031, Yunnan, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Caselli L, Parra-Ortiz E, Micciulla S, Skoda MWA, Häffner SM, Nielsen EM, van der Plas MJA, Malmsten M. Boosting Membrane Interactions and Antimicrobial Effects of Photocatalytic Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles by Peptide Coating. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2309496. [PMID: 38402437 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202309496] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Photocatalytic nanoparticles offer antimicrobial effects under illumination due to the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), capable of degrading bacterial membranes. ROS may, however, also degrade human cell membranes and trigger toxicity. Since antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) may display excellent selectivity between human cells and bacteria, these may offer opportunities to effectively "target" nanoparticles to bacterial membranes for increased selectivity. Investigating this, photocatalytic TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) are coated with the AMP LL-37, and ROS generation is found by C11-BODIPY to be essentially unaffected after AMP coating. Furthermore, peptide-coated TiO2 NPs retain their positive ζ-potential also after 1-2 h of UV illumination, showing peptide degradation to be sufficiently limited to allow peptide-mediated targeting. In line with this, quartz crystal microbalance measurements show peptide coating to promote membrane binding of TiO2 NPs, particularly so for bacteria-like anionic and cholesterol-void membranes. As a result, membrane degradation during illumination is strongly promoted for such membranes, but not so for mammalian-like membranes. The mechanisms of these effects are elucidated by neutron reflectometry. Analogously, LL-37 coating promoted membrane rupture by TiO2 NPs for Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, but not for human monocytes. These findings demonstrate that AMP coating may selectively boost the antimicrobial effects of photocatalytic NPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucrezia Caselli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK-2100, Denmark
- Department of Physical Chemistry 1, Lund University, Lund, SE-22100, Sweden
| | - Elisa Parra-Ortiz
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK-2100, Denmark
- Novonesis, Biologiens Vej 2, Lyngby, DK-2800 Kgs, Denmark
| | - Samantha Micciulla
- Institut Laue-Langevin, CS 20156, Grenoble Cedex 9, 38042, France
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Physique (LIPhy), Saint Martin d'Hères, 38402, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Saint-Martin-d'Hères, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
| | - Maximilian W A Skoda
- ISIS Pulsed Neutron and Muon Source, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, OX11 0QX, UK
| | - Sara Malekkhaiat Häffner
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK-2100, Denmark
- RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Malvinas väg 3, Stockholm, 114 86, Sweden
| | | | | | - Martin Malmsten
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK-2100, Denmark
- Department of Physical Chemistry 1, Lund University, Lund, SE-22100, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Salehi Z, Askari M, Jafari A, Ghosn B, Surkan PJ, Hosseinzadeh-Attar MJ, Pouraram H, Azadbakht L. Dietary patterns and micronutrients in respiratory infections including COVID-19: a narrative review. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1661. [PMID: 38907196 PMCID: PMC11193220 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18760-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 is a pandemic caused by nCoV-2019, a new beta-coronavirus from Wuhan, China, that mainly affects the respiratory system and can be modulated by nutrition. METHODS This review aims to summarize the current literature on the association between dietary intake and serum levels of micronutrients, malnutrition, and dietary patterns and respiratory infections, including flu, pneumonia, and acute respiratory syndrome, with a focus on COVID-19. We searched for relevant articles in various databases and selected those that met our inclusion criteria. RESULTS Some studies suggest that dietary patterns, malnutrition, and certain nutrients such as vitamins D, E, A, iron, zinc, selenium, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber may have a significant role in preventing respiratory diseases, alleviating symptoms, and lowering mortality rates. However, the evidence is not consistent and conclusive, and more research is needed to clarify the mechanisms and the optimal doses of these dietary components. The impact of omega-3 and fiber on respiratory diseases has been mainly studied in children and adults, respectively, and few studies have examined the effect of dietary components on COVID-19 prevention, with a greater focus on vitamin D. CONCLUSION This review highlights the potential of nutrition as a modifiable factor in the prevention and management of respiratory infections and suggests some directions for future research. However, it also acknowledges the limitations of the existing literature, such as the heterogeneity of the study designs, populations, interventions, and outcomes, and the difficulty of isolating the effects of single nutrients from the complex interactions of the whole diet.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Salehi
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Askari
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR, Iran
| | - Alireza Jafari
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR, Iran
| | - Batoul Ghosn
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR, Iran
| | - Pamela J Surkan
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mohammad Javad Hosseinzadeh-Attar
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetic, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Nutrition and Biochemistry, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR, Iran
| | - Hamed Pouraram
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR, Iran
| | - Leila Azadbakht
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR, Iran.
- Diabetes Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR, Iran.
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, IR, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Farzi N, Oloomi M, Bahramali G, Siadat SD, Bouzari S. Antibacterial Properties and Efficacy of LL-37 Fragment GF-17D3 and Scolopendin A2 Peptides Against Resistant Clinical Strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii In Vitro and In Vivo Model Studies. Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins 2024; 16:796-814. [PMID: 37148452 DOI: 10.1007/s12602-023-10070-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Acinetobacter baumannii have emerged as major clinical threats owing to the increasing prevalence of ventilator-associated pneumonia caused by multidrug-resistant or extensively drug-resistant strains. The present study aimed to assess the antibacterial effects and efficacy of LL-37 fragment GF-17D3 and synthetic Scolopendin A2 peptides against resistant clinical strains in vitro and in vivo models. P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and A. baumannii were isolated from clinical infections. Their antibiotic resistance and minimum inhibitory concentration were assessed. LL-37 fragment GF-17D3 peptide was selected from available databases. Scolopendin A2 peptide's 6th amino acid (proline) was substituted with lysine and peptides and MICs were determined. The biofilm inhibitory activity was quantified at sub MIC concentrations. Synergetic effects of Scolopendin A2 and imipenem were assessed by checkerboard. After mice nasal infection with P. aeruginosa, peptides LD50 was determined. Isolates harbored complete resistance toward the majority of antibiotics and MIC values ranged between 1 and > 512 µg/ml. The majority of isolates exhibited strong biofilm activity. Synthetic peptides showed lower MIC values than antibiotic agents and the lowest MIC values were obtained for synthetic peptides in combination with antibiotics. The Synergisms effect of Scolopendin A2 with imipenem was also determined. Scolopendin A2 was found to have antibacterial efficacy against P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and A. baumannii with MIC 64 µg/ml, 8 µg/ml, and 16 µg/ml, respectively, and LL37 showed antibacterial efficacy against P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and A. baumannii with MIC 128 µg/ml, 32 µg/ml, and 32 µg/ml, respectively. Both AMPs decreased biofilms by ≥ 96% at 1 × MIC. The biofilm inhibitory activity was measured at sub MIC concentrations of the peptides and the results demonstrated that Scolopendin A2 exhibited anti-biofilm activity at 1/4 × MIC and 1/2 × MIC concentrations was 47.9 to 63.8%, although LL37 among 1/4 × MIC and 1/2 × MIC concentrations was 21.3 to 49.6% against three pathogens. The combination of Scolopendin A2 and antibiotics demonstrated synergistic activity-resistant strains with FIC values ≤ 0.5 for three pathogens, while LL37 and antibiotics showed synergistic activity FIC values ≤ 0.5 for only P. aeruginosa. Infection model Scolopendin A2 with Imipenem (2 × MIC) was efficacious in vivo, with a 100% survival rate following treatment at 2 × MIC after 120 h. The mRNA expression of biofilm-related genes was decreased for both peptides. Synthesis Scolopendin A2 decreased the expression of biofilm formation genes compared to the control group. Synthetic Scolopendin A2 exhibits antimicrobial activity without causing toxicity on the human epithelial cell line. Based on our findings, it seems that synthetic Scolopendin A2 is an appropriate antimicrobial source. That could be a promising option in combination with antibiotics for a topical medication and in the prevention of acute and chronic infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria. Nevertheless, additional experiments are required to assess another potential of this novel AMP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nastaran Farzi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mana Oloomi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Golnaz Bahramali
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS and Blood Borne Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Davar Siadat
- Department of Mycobacteriology and Pulmonary Research, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
- Microbiology Research Center (MRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Saeid Bouzari
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS and Blood Borne Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Mycobacteriology and Pulmonary Research, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
- Microbiology Research Center (MRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yao Y, Shang W, Bao L, Peng Z, Wu C. Epithelial-immune cell crosstalk for intestinal barrier homeostasis. Eur J Immunol 2024; 54:e2350631. [PMID: 38556632 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202350631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
The intestinal barrier is mainly formed by a monolayer of epithelial cells, which forms a physical barrier to protect the gut tissues from external insults and provides a microenvironment for commensal bacteria to colonize while ensuring immune tolerance. Moreover, various immune cells are known to significantly contribute to intestinal barrier function by either directly interacting with epithelial cells or by producing immune mediators. Fulfilling this function of the gut barrier for mucosal homeostasis requires not only the intrinsic regulation of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) but also constant communication with immune cells and gut microbes. The reciprocal interactions between IECs and immune cells modulate mucosal barrier integrity. Dysregulation of barrier function could lead to dysbiosis, inflammation, and tumorigenesis. In this overview, we provide an update on the characteristics and functions of IECs, and how they integrate their functions with tissue immune cells and gut microbiota to establish gut homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yikun Yao
- Shanghai Institute of Nutrition & Health, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanjing Shang
- Lymphocyte Biology Section, Laboratory of Immune System Biology, National Institute of Allergy and infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lingyu Bao
- Section on Molecular Morphogenesis, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Zhaoyi Peng
- Section on Molecular Morphogenesis, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Chuan Wu
- Experimental Immunology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Singh G, Rana A, Smriti. Decoding antimicrobial resistance: unraveling molecular mechanisms and targeted strategies. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:280. [PMID: 38805035 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-03998-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance poses a significant global health threat, necessitating innovative approaches for combatting it. This review explores various mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance observed in various strains of bacteria. We examine various strategies, including antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), novel antimicrobial materials, drug delivery systems, vaccines, antibody therapies, and non-traditional antibiotic treatments. Through a comprehensive literature review, the efficacy and challenges of these strategies are evaluated. Findings reveal the potential of AMPs in combating resistance due to their unique mechanisms and lower propensity for resistance development. Additionally, novel drug delivery systems, such as nanoparticles, show promise in enhancing antibiotic efficacy and overcoming resistance mechanisms. Vaccines and antibody therapies offer preventive measures, although challenges exist in their development. Non-traditional antibiotic treatments, including CRISPR-Cas systems, present alternative approaches to combat resistance. Overall, this review underscores the importance of multifaceted strategies and coordinated global efforts to address antimicrobial resistance effectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gagandeep Singh
- Department of Biosciences (UIBT), Chandigarh University, Punjab, 140413, India
| | - Anita Rana
- Department of Biosciences (UIBT), Chandigarh University, Punjab, 140413, India.
| | - Smriti
- Department of Biosciences (UIBT), Chandigarh University, Punjab, 140413, India
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Suárez JAG, Calumby RJN, Silva DP, Barbosa VT, Maranhão FCA, Moreira IF, Melhem MSC, Moreira RTF. Neonatal innate immunity response in invasive candidiasis. BRAZ J BIOL 2024; 84:e275155. [PMID: 38808781 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.275155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Infections caused by Candida spp. are frequent in critically hospitalized patients, especially among premature neonates, representing one of the most common healthcare-related infections. Although there is considerable production of current knowledge about the mechanisms of immune response, aspects involved in the newborn's innate defense are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to describe the innate immune mechanisms involved in the defense of neonates against invasive candidiasis. This is an integrative literature review from the Scopus, Scifinder, Medline, Web of Science databases and the electronic libraries ScienceDirect and Scielo, in the period between 2002 and 2020, with rescue based on primary descriptor Immunity Innate plus secondary descriptors Candidiasis Invasive AND Infant Newborn. We have observed the involvement of various mechanisms in the neonatal response against invasive candidiasis, including the recognition, signaling, recruitment, and initiation of an effective immune response. These mechanisms encompass the presence of antimicrobial peptides, phagocytosis, synthesis of reactive oxygen species, inflammatory mediators, and complex cell signaling systems mediated by Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs). With this study, it is expected to contribute to the expansion of knowledge about the immunological mechanisms involved in the innate immune response of the newborn against disseminated infections caused by Candida species, and in the same sense, highlight the importance of this knowledge as a reflex in the decrease in mortality in the neonatal period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J A G Suárez
- Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto - UFOP, Ouro Preto, MG, Brasil
| | - R J N Calumby
- Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | - D P Silva
- Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | - V T Barbosa
- Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | - F C A Maranhão
- Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | - I F Moreira
- Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | - M S C Melhem
- Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul - UFMS, Faculdade de Medicina, Programa de Pós Graduação em Doenças Infecciosas, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - R T F Moreira
- Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
- Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul - UFMS, Faculdade de Medicina, Programa de Pós Graduação em Doenças Infecciosas, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lim BY, Azmi F, Ng SF. LL37 Microspheres Loaded on Activated Carbon-chitosan Hydrogel: Anti-bacterial and Anti-toxin Wound Dressing for Chronic Wound Infections. AAPS PharmSciTech 2024; 25:110. [PMID: 38740721 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-024-02826-6] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptide LL37 is a promising antibacterial candidate due to its potent antimicrobial activity with no known bacterial resistance. However, intrinsically LL37 is susceptible to degradation in wound fluids limits its effectiveness. Bacterial toxins which are released after cell lysis are found to hinder wound healing. To address these challenges, encapsulating LL37 in microspheres (MS) and loading the MS onto activated carbon (AC)-chitosan (CS) hydrogel. This advanced wound dressing not only protects LL37 from degradation but also targets bacterial toxins, aiding in the healing of chronic wound infections. First, LL37 MS and LL37-AC-CS hydrogel were prepared and characterised in terms of physicochemical properties, drug release, and peptide-polymer compatibility. Antibacterial and antibiofilm activity, bacterial toxin elimination, cell migration, and cell cytotoxicity activities were investigated. LL37-AC-CS hydrogel was effective against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. LL37-AC-CS hydrogel bound more endotoxin than AC with CS hydrogel alone. The hydrogel also induced cell migration after 72 h and showed no cytotoxicity towards NHDF after 72 h of treatment. In conclusion, the LL37-AC-CS hydrogel was shown to be a stable, non-toxic advanced wound dressing method with enhanced antimicrobial and antitoxin activity, and it can potentially be applied to chronic wound infections to accelerate wound healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bee-Yee Lim
- National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency, 36, Jalan Profesor Diraja Ungku Aziz, PJS 13, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, 46200, Malaysia
- Centre for Drug Delivery Technology and Vaccine, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia
| | - Fazren Azmi
- Centre for Drug Delivery Technology and Vaccine, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia
| | - Shiow-Fern Ng
- Centre for Drug Delivery Technology and Vaccine, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hou X, Li C, Liu J, Yang S, Peng X, Wang Q, Liu C, Liu X, Luan J, Zhao G, Lin J. Cathelicidin boosts the antifungal activity of neutrophils and improves prognosis during Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis. Infect Immun 2024; 92:e0048323. [PMID: 38501672 PMCID: PMC11003229 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00483-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) is one of the common pathogens of fungal keratitis. Fungal growth and invasion cause excessive inflammation and corneal damage, leading to severe vision loss. Neutrophils are the primary infiltrating cells critical for fungal clearance. Cathelicidin [LL-37 in humans and cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide (CRAMP) in mice], a natural antimicrobial peptide, can directly inhibit the growth of many pathogens and regulate immune responses. However, the role of cathelicidin and its effect on neutrophils in A. fumigatus keratitis remain unclear. By establishing A. fumigatus keratitis mouse models, we found that cathelicidin was increased in A. fumigatus keratitis. It could reduce fungal loads, lower clinical scores, and improve corneal transparency. Restriction of CRAMP on fungal proliferation was largely counteracted in CD18-/- mice, in which neutrophils cannot migrate into infected sites. When WT neutrophils were transferred into CD18-/- mice, corneal fungal loads were distinctly reduced, indicating that neutrophils are vital for CRAMP-mediated resistance. Furthermore, cathelicidin promoted neutrophils to phagocytose and degrade conidia both in vitro and in vivo. CXC chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2) was reported to be a functional receptor of LL-37 on neutrophils. CXCR2 antagonist SB225002 or phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor U73122 weakened LL-37-induced phagocytosis. Meanwhile, LL-37 induced PLC γ phosphorylation, which was attenuated by SB225002. SB225002 or the autophagy inhibitors Bafilomycin-A1 and 3-Methyladenine weakened LL-37-induced degradation of conidia. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observed that LL-37 increased autophagosomes in Aspergillus-infected neutrophils. Consistently, LL-37 elevated autophagy-associated protein expressions (Beclin-1 and LC3-II), but this effect was weakened by SB225002. Collectively, cathelicidin reduces fungal loads and improves the prognosis of A. fumigatus keratitis. Both in vitro and in vivo, cathelicidin promotes neutrophils to phagocytose and degrade conidia. LL-37/CXCR2 activates PLC γ to amplify neutrophils' phagocytosis and induces autophagy to eliminate intracellular conidia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochen Hou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Cui Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Jingyi Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Shanshan Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xudong Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Chengxiu Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xing Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Junjie Luan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Guiqiu Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Bing J, Guan Z, Zheng T, Ennis CL, Nobile CJ, Chen C, Chu H, Huang G. Rapid evolution of an adaptive multicellular morphology of Candida auris during systemic infection. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2381. [PMID: 38493178 PMCID: PMC10944540 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46786-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida auris has become a serious threat to public health. The mechanisms of how this fungal pathogen adapts to the mammalian host are poorly understood. Here we report the rapid evolution of an adaptive C. auris multicellular aggregative morphology in the murine host during systemic infection. C. auris aggregative cells accumulate in the brain and exhibit obvious advantages over the single-celled yeast-form cells during systemic infection. Genetic mutations, specifically de novo point mutations in genes associated with cell division or budding processes, underlie the rapid evolution of this aggregative phenotype. Most mutated C. auris genes are associated with the regulation of cell wall integrity, cytokinesis, cytoskeletal properties, and cellular polarization. Moreover, the multicellular aggregates are notably more recalcitrant to the host antimicrobial peptides LL-37 and PACAP relative to the single-celled yeast-form cells. Overall, to survive in the host, C. auris can rapidly evolve a multicellular aggregative morphology via genetic mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Bing
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Zhangyue Guan
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Tianhong Zheng
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Craig L Ennis
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA, 95343, USA
- Quantitative and Systems Biology Graduate Program, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA, 95343, USA
| | - Clarissa J Nobile
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA, 95343, USA
- Health Sciences Research Institute, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA, 95343, USA
| | - Changbin Chen
- The Center for Microbes, Development, and Health, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Unit of Pathogenic Fungal Infection & Host Immunity, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Haiqing Chu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tuberculosis, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Guanghua Huang
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China.
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhou X, Shen H, Wu S, Mu L, Yang H, Wu J. An amphibian-derived cathelicidin accelerates cutaneous wound healing through its main regulatory effect on phagocytes. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 129:111595. [PMID: 38295541 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111595] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Cathelicidins are an important family of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) involved in the innate immunity in vertebrates. The mammalian cathelicidins have been well characterized, but the relationship between structure and function in amphibian cathelicidins is still not well understood. In this study, a novel 29-residue cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (BugaCATH) was identified from the skin of Bufo gargarizans. Unlike other AMPs, BugaCATH does not display any direct antimicrobial effects in vitro. However, it effectively promotes full-thickness wound repair in mice. Following injury, BugaCATH initiates and expedites the inflammatory stage by recruiting neutrophils and macrophages to the wound site. BugaCATH not only regulates neutrophil phagocytic activity but also stimulates the generation of cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) and chemokines (CXCL1, CXCL2, CCL2, and CCL3) in macrophages and in mice. Furthermore, it promotes macrophage M2 polarization that facilitates the conversion from a pro-inflammatory macrophage-dominated wound environment to an anti-inflammatory one during the mid to late stages, which is crucial for reducing inflammation and effective wound repair. The MAPK (ERK, JNK, and p38) and NF-κB-NLRP3 signaling pathways are involved in the activity. Moreover, BugaCATH directly enhances the migration of keratinocytes and vascular endothelial cells without affecting their proliferation. Notably, BugaCATH significantly improves the proliferation of keratinocytes and endothelial cells in the presence of macrophages. The current study revealed that in addition to proliferation of keratinocytes and endothelial cells, BugaCATH possesses the ability to modulate inflammatory processes during skin injury through its regulatory effect on phagocytes. The combination of these capabilities makes BugaCATH a potent candidate for skin wound therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Huan Shen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Shuxin Wu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Lixian Mu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
| | - Hailong Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
| | - Jing Wu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Höpfinger A, Schmid A, Karrasch T, Pankuweit S, Schäffler A, Grote K. Cathelicidin Antimicrobial Peptide Levels in Atherosclerosis and Myocardial Infarction in Mice and Human. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2909. [PMID: 38474156 PMCID: PMC10931542 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity represents a worldwide health challenge, and the condition is accompanied by elevated risk of cardiovascular diseases caused by metabolic dysfunction and proinflammatory adipokines. Among those, the immune-modulatory cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (human: CAMP; murine: CRAMP) might contribute to the interaction of the innate immune system and metabolism in these settings. We investigated systemic CAMP/CRAMP levels in experimental murine models of atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction and cardiovascular patients. Atherosclerosis was induced in low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (Ldlr-/-) mice by high-fat diet (HFD). C57BL/6J wild-type mice were subjected to myocardial infarction by permanent or transient left anterior descending (LAD)-ligation. Cramp gene expression in murine organs and tissues was investigated via real-time PCR. Blood samples of 234 adult individuals with or without coronary artery disease (CAD) were collected. Human and murine CAMP/CRAMP serum levels were quantified by ELISA. Atherosclerotic mice exhibited significantly increased CRAMP serum levels and induced Cramp gene expression in the spleen and liver, whereas experimental myocardial infarction substantially decreased CRAMP serum levels. Human CAMP serum quantities were not significantly affected by CAD while being correlated with leukocytes and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Our data show an influence of cathelicidin in experimental atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, as well as in patients with CAD. Further studies are needed to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Höpfinger
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University of Giessen, Klinikstr. 33, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (A.S.); (T.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Andreas Schmid
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University of Giessen, Klinikstr. 33, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (A.S.); (T.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Thomas Karrasch
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University of Giessen, Klinikstr. 33, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (A.S.); (T.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Sabine Pankuweit
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Philipps-University Marburg, Baldinger Str., 35043 Marburg, Germany; (S.P.); (K.G.)
| | - Andreas Schäffler
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University of Giessen, Klinikstr. 33, 35392 Giessen, Germany; (A.S.); (T.K.); (A.S.)
| | - Karsten Grote
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Philipps-University Marburg, Baldinger Str., 35043 Marburg, Germany; (S.P.); (K.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ra YE, Bang YJ. Balancing Act of the Intestinal Antimicrobial Proteins on Gut Microbiota and Health. J Microbiol 2024; 62:167-179. [PMID: 38630349 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-024-00122-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/15/2024]
Abstract
The human gut houses a diverse and dynamic microbiome critical for digestion, metabolism, and immune development, exerting profound effects on human health. However, these microorganisms pose a potential threat by breaching the gut barrier, entering host tissues, and triggering infections, uncontrolled inflammation, and even sepsis. The intestinal epithelial cells form the primary defense, acting as a frontline barrier against microbial invasion. Antimicrobial proteins (AMPs), produced by these cells, serve as innate immune effectors that regulate the gut microbiome by directly killing or inhibiting microbes. Abnormal AMP production, whether insufficient or excessive, can disturb the microbiome equilibrium, contributing to various intestinal diseases. This review delves into the complex interactions between AMPs and the gut microbiota and sheds light on the role of AMPs in governing host-microbiota interactions. We discuss the function and mechanisms of action of AMPs, their regulation by the gut microbiota, microbial evasion strategies, and the consequences of AMP dysregulation in disease. Understanding these complex interactions between AMPs and the gut microbiota is crucial for developing strategies to enhance immune responses and combat infections within the gut microbiota. Ongoing research continues to uncover novel aspects of this intricate relationship, deepening our understanding of the factors shaping gut health. This knowledge has the potential to revolutionize therapeutic interventions, offering enhanced treatments for a wide range of gut-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Eun Ra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Ye-Ji Bang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Infectious Diseases, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Nakamura Y, Kulkarni NN, Takahashi T, Alimohamadi H, Dokoshi T, Liu E, Shia M, Numata T, Luo EW, Gombart AF, Yang X, Secrest P, Gordts PL, Tsimikas S, Wong GC, Gallo RL. Increased LL37 in psoriasis and other inflammatory disorders promotes LDL uptake and atherosclerosis. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e172578. [PMID: 38194294 PMCID: PMC10904043 DOI: 10.1172/jci172578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Patients with chronic inflammatory disorders such as psoriasis have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and elevated levels of LL37, a cathelicidin host defense peptide that has both antimicrobial and proinflammatory properties. To explore whether LL37 could contribute to the risk of heart disease, we examined its effects on lipoprotein metabolism and show that LL37 enhanced LDL uptake in macrophages through the LDL receptor (LDLR), scavenger receptor class B member 1 (SR-B1), and CD36. This interaction led to increased cytosolic cholesterol in macrophages and changes in expression of lipid metabolism genes consistent with increased cholesterol uptake. Structure-function analysis and synchrotron small-angle x-ray scattering showed structural determinants of the LL37-LDL complex that underlie its ability to bind its receptors and promote uptake. This function of LDL uptake is unique to cathelicidins from humans and some primates and was not observed with cathelicidins from mice or rabbits. Notably, Apoe-/- mice expressing LL37 developed larger atheroma plaques than did control mice, and a positive correlation between plasma LL37 and oxidized phospholipid on apolipoprotein B (OxPL-apoB) levels was observed in individuals with cardiovascular disease. These findings provide evidence that LDL uptake can be increased via interaction with LL37 and may explain the increased risk of cardiovascular disease associated with chronic inflammatory disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Adrian F. Gombart
- Linus Pauling Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Patrick Secrest
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, and
| | - Philip L.S.M. Gordts
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, and
- Glycobiology Research and Training Center, UCSD, La Jolla, California, USA
| | | | - Gerard C.L. Wong
- Department of Bioengineering, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Watts S, Hänni E, Smith GN, Mahmoudi N, Freire RVM, Lim S, Salentinig S. Human antimicrobial peptide inactivation mechanism of enveloped viruses. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 657:971-981. [PMID: 38096780 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.11.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/02/2024]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS Enveloped viruses are pivotal in causing various illnesses, including influenza and COVID-19. The antimicrobial peptide LL-37, a critical part of the human innate immune system, exhibits potential as an antiviral agent capable of thwarting these viral threats. Its mode of action involves versatile and non-specific interactions that culminate in dismantling the viral envelope, ultimately rendering the viruses inert. However, the exact mechanism of action is not yet understood. EXPERIMENTS Here, the mechanism of LL-37 triggered changes in the structure and function of an enveloped virus is investigated. The bacteriophage "Phi6" is used as a surrogate for pathogenic enveloped viruses. Small angle X-ray and neutron scattering combined with light scattering techniques demonstrate that LL-37 actively integrates into the virus's lipid envelope. FINDINGS LL-37 addition to Phi6 leads to curvature modification in the lipid bilayer, ultimately separating the envelope from the nucleocapsid. Additional biological assays confirm the loss of virus infectivity in the presence of LL-37, which coincides with the structural transformations. The results provide a fundamental understanding of the structure-activity relationship related to enveloped viruses. The knowledge of peptide-virus interactions can guide the design of future peptide-based antiviral drugs and therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Watts
- Department of Chemistry, University of Fribourg, Chemin du Musée 9, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, 70 Nanyang Drive, Block N1.3, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637457, Singapore
| | - Eliane Hänni
- Department of Chemistry, University of Fribourg, Chemin du Musée 9, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Gregory N Smith
- ISIS Neutron and Muon Souce, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot OX11 0QX, United Kingdom
| | - Najet Mahmoudi
- ISIS Neutron and Muon Souce, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot OX11 0QX, United Kingdom
| | - Rafael V M Freire
- Department of Chemistry, University of Fribourg, Chemin du Musée 9, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Sierin Lim
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, 70 Nanyang Drive, Block N1.3, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637457, Singapore
| | - Stefan Salentinig
- Department of Chemistry, University of Fribourg, Chemin du Musée 9, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Gasanov V, Vorotelyak E, Vasiliev A. Expression of the Antimicrobial Peptide SE-33-A2P, a Modified Analog of Cathelicidin, and an Analysis of Its Properties. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:190. [PMID: 38391576 PMCID: PMC10886013 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13020190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, we developed a method for the expression of the antimicrobial peptide SE-33-A2P in E. coli bacterial cells. The SE-33-A2P peptide consists of A2P and SE-33 peptides and is a retro analog of cathelicidin possessing antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Furthermore, the A2P peptide is a self-cleaving peptide. For an efficient expression of the SE-33-A2P peptide, a gene encoding several repetitive sequences of the SE-33 peptide separated by A2P sequences was created. The gene was cloned into a plasmid, with which E. coli cells were transformed. An induction of the product expression was carried out by IPTG after the cell culture gained high density. The inducible expression product, due to the properties of the A2P peptide, was cleaved in the cell into SE-33-A2P peptides. As the next step, the SE-33-A2P peptide was purified using filtration and chromatography. Its activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria, was proved. The developed approach for obtaining a prokaryotic system for the expression of a highly active antimicrobial peptide expands the opportunities for producing antimicrobial peptides via industrial methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vagif Gasanov
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, N.K. Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov Str. 26, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Vorotelyak
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, N.K. Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov Str. 26, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey Vasiliev
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, N.K. Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov Str. 26, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Rachman A, Rahmaniyah R, Khomeini A, Iriani A. The association between vitamin D deficiency and the clinical outcomes of hospitalized COVID-19 patients. F1000Res 2024; 12:394. [PMID: 38434628 PMCID: PMC10905025 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.132214.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Vitamin D deficiency is an emerging public health problem that affects more than one billion people worldwide. Vitamin D has been shown to be effective in preventing and reducing the severity of viral respiratory diseases, including influenza. However, the role of vitamin D in COVID-19 infection remains controversial. This study aimed to analyze the association of vitamin D deficiency on the clinical outcome of hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted among hospitalized COVID-19 patients at two COVID-19 referral hospitals in Indonesia from October 2021 until February 2022. Results The median serum 25(OH)D level in 191 hospitalized COVID-19 patients was 13.6 [IQR=10.98] ng/mL. The serum 25(OH)D levels were significantly lower among COVID-19 patients with vitamin D deficiency who had cardiovascular disease (p-value=0.04), the use of a ventilator (p-value=0.004), more severe COVID-19 cases (p-value=0.047), and mortality (p-value=0.002). Furthermore, serum 25(OH)D levels were significantly different between patients with mild and severe COVID-19 cases (p-value=0.019). Serum 25(OH)D levels in moderate and severe COVID-19 cases were significantly different (p-value=0.031). Lower serum 25(OH)D levels were significantly associated with an increased number of comorbidities (p-value=0.03), the severity of COVID-19 (p-value=0.002), and the use of mechanical ventilation (p-value=0.032). Mortality was found in 7.3% of patients with deficient vitamin D levels. However, patients with either sufficient or insufficient vitamin D levels did not develop mortality. Conclusions COVID-19 patients with vitamin D deficiency were significantly associated with having cardiovascular disease, mortality, more severe COVID-19 cases, and the used of mechanical ventilation. Lower serum 25(OH)D levels were associated with an increased number of comorbidities, COVID-19 severity, and the use of mechanical-ventilation. Thus, we suggest hospitalized COVID-19 patients to reach a sufficient vitamin D status to improve the clinical outcome of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andhika Rachman
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National Referral Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Centra Jakarta, DKI Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia
| | - Rizky Rahmaniyah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Central Jakarta, DKI Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia
| | - Andi Khomeini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Central Jakarta, DKI Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wisma Atlet COVID-19 Emergency Hospital, North Jakarta, DKI Jakarta, 14360, Indonesia
| | - Anggraini Iriani
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Yarsi University, Central Jakarta, DKI Jakarta, 10510, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Winter J, Jepsen S. Role of innate host defense proteins in oral cancerogenesis. Periodontol 2000 2024. [PMID: 38265172 DOI: 10.1111/prd.12552] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
It is nowadays well accepted that chronic inflammation plays a pivotal role in tumor initiation and progression. Under this aspect, the oral cavity is predestined to examine this connection because periodontitis is a highly prevalent chronic inflammatory disease and oral squamous cell carcinomas are the most common oral malignant lesions. In this review, we describe how particular molecules of the human innate host defense system may participate as molecular links between these two important chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Specific focus is directed toward antimicrobial polypeptides, such as the cathelicidin LL-37 and human defensins, as well as S100 proteins and alarmins. We report in which way these peptides and proteins are able to initiate and support oral tumorigenesis, showing direct mechanisms by binding to growth-stimulating cell surface receptors and/or indirect effects, for example, inducing tumor-promoting genes. Finally, bacterial challenges with impact on oral cancerogenesis are briefly addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jochen Winter
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Periodontology, Operative and Preventive Dentistry, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Søren Jepsen
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Periodontology, Operative and Preventive Dentistry, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Khavani M, Mehranfar A, Mofrad MRK. Antimicrobial peptide interactions with bacterial cell membranes. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38263741 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2024.2304683] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are potential alternatives for common antibiotics because of their greater activity and efficiency against a broad range of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. In this project, two antimicrobial peptides including magainin 2 and protegrin 1 with α-helix and β-sheet secondary structures were selected to investigate their interactions with different lipid bilayers such as 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC), 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoserine (POPS), 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoglycerol (POPG), and 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (POPE), POPC/POPG (7:3), POPC/POPS (7:3), POPG/POPE(1:3), and POPG/POPE(3:1). The obtained structures of the AMPs illustrated that protegrin 1 cannot maintain its secondary structure in the solution phase in contrast to magainin 2. The head groups of the lipid units play a key role in the stability of the lipid bilayers. The head parts of the lipid membranes by increasing the internal H-bond contribute to membrane compactness. The POPG and POPS units inside the POPC/POPG and POPC/POPS membranes increase the order of the POPC units. The cationic residues of the AMPs form remarkable electrostatic interactions with the negatively charged membrane surfaces, which play a key role in the stabilization process of the peptide secondary structures. The Arg residues of protegrin 1 and the Gly1, Lys4, Lys10, Lys11, Lys14, and Glu19 of the magainin 2 have the most important roles in the complexation process. The values of Gibbs binding energies (ΔG) indicate that the complexation process between AMPs and different bacterial membranes is favorable from the thermodynamic viewpoint and AMPs could form stable complexes with the lipid bilayers. As a result of ΔG values, protegrin 1 forms a more stable complex with POPG/POPE(3:1), while the α-helix has more affinity to the POPG/POPE(1:3) bacterial membranes. Therefore, it can be considered that β-sheet and α-helix AMPs are more effective against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, respectively. The results of this study can provide useful details about the antimicrobial peptide interactions with the bacterial cell, which can be employed for designing new antimicrobial materials with greater efficiency.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Khavani
- Molecular Cell Biomechanics Laboratory, Departments of Bioengineering and Mechanical Engineering, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Aliyeh Mehranfar
- Molecular Cell Biomechanics Laboratory, Departments of Bioengineering and Mechanical Engineering, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Mohammad R K Mofrad
- Molecular Cell Biomechanics Laboratory, Departments of Bioengineering and Mechanical Engineering, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gour N, Dong X. The MRGPR family of receptors in immunity. Immunity 2024; 57:28-39. [PMID: 38198852 PMCID: PMC10825802 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The discovery of Mas-related G protein-coupled receptors (Mrgprs) has opened a compelling chapter in our understanding of immunity and sensory biology. This family of receptors, with their unique expression and diverse ligands, has emerged as key players in inflammatory states and hold the potential to alleviate human diseases. This review will focus on the members of this receptor family expressed on immune cells and how they govern immune and neuro-immune pathways underlying various physiological and pathological states. Immune cell-specific Mrgprs have been shown to control a variety of manifestations, including adverse drug reactions, inflammatory conditions, bacterial immunity, and the sensing of environmental exposures like allergens and irritants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naina Gour
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Xinzhong Dong
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Wang SL, Li XW, Xu W, Yu QY, Fang SM. Advances of regenerated and functionalized silk biomaterials and application in skin wound healing. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:128024. [PMID: 37972830 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The cocoon silk of silkworms (Bombyx mori) has multiple potential applications in biomedicine due to its good biocompatibility, mechanical properties, degradability, and plasticity. Numerous studies have confirmed that silk material dressings are more effective than traditional ones in the skin wound healing process. Silk material research has recently moved toward functionalized biomaterials and achieved remarkable results. Herein, we summarize the recent advances in functionalized silk materials and their efficacy in skin wound healing. In particular, transgenic technology has realized the specific expression of human growth factors in the silk glands of the silkworms, which lays the foundation for fabricating novel and low-cost functionalized materials. Without a green and safe preparation process, the best raw silk materials cannot be made into medically safe products. Therefore, we provide an overview of green and gentle approaches for silk degumming and silk sericin (SS) extraction. Moreover, we summarize and discuss the processing methods of silk fibroin (SF) and SS materials and their potential applications, such as burns, diabetic wounds, and other wounds. This review aims to enhance our understanding of new advances and directions in silk materials and guide future biomedical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Lan Wang
- College of Life Science, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637002, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiao-Wei Li
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Dermatology, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 40 Daomenkou St., District Yuzhong, Chongqing 400011, China
| | - Quan-You Yu
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China
| | - Shou-Min Fang
- College of Life Science, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637002, Sichuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Rashki S, Dawi EA, Zilaei MR, Safardoust-Hojaghan H, Ghanbari M, Ryadh A, Lafta HA, Khaledi A, Salavati-Niasari M. ZnO/chitosan nanocomposites as a new approach for delivery LL37 and evaluation of the inhibitory effects against biofilm-producing Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from clinical samples. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127583. [PMID: 37866577 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Modification surface of chitosan nanoparticles using ZnO nanoparticles is important interest in drug delivery because of the beneficial properties. In this study, we proposed a chitosan/ZnO nanocomposite for the targeted delivery of antibacterial peptide (LL37). Synthesized LL37-loaded chitosan/ZnO nanocomposite (CS/ZnO/LL37-NCs) was based on the ionotropic gelation method. The antibacterial activity of the synthesized platform versus Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was determined by the microdilution method in 10 mM sodium phosphate buffer. The biofilm formation inhibitory was also evaluated using microtiter plate method. In addition, the ability of CS/ZnO/LL37-NCs on the icaA gene expression level was assessed by the Real-Time PCR. The loading and release investigations confirmed the suitability of CS/ZnO-NCs for LL37 encapsulation. Results showed 6 log10 CFU/ml reduction in MRSA treated with the CS/ZnO/LL37-NPs. Moreover, CS/ZnO/LL37-NCs showed 81 % biofilm formation inhibition than LL37 alone. Also, icaA gene expression decreased 1-fold in the face of CS/ZnO/LL37-NCs. In conclusion, the modification surface of chitosan nanoparticles with ZnO nanoparticles is a suitable chemical platform for the delivery of LL37 that could be used as a promising nanocarrier for enhancing the delivery of antibacterial peptide and improving the antibacterial activity of LL37.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Somaye Rashki
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran
| | - Elmuez A Dawi
- College of Humanities and Sciences, Department of Mathematics, and Science, Ajman University, P.O. Box 346, Ajman, UAE.
| | - Mohammad Reza Zilaei
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | | | - Mojgan Ghanbari
- Institute of Nano Science and Nano Technology, University of Kashan, P.O. Box 87317-51167, Kashan, Iran
| | - Abrar Ryadh
- Medical Laboratory Techniques Department, College of Techniques, Al-Mustaqbal University, 51001 Hillah, Iraq
| | - Holya A Lafta
- Medical Laboratory Techniques Department, Al-Nisour University College, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Azad Khaledi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Masoud Salavati-Niasari
- Institute of Nano Science and Nano Technology, University of Kashan, P.O. Box 87317-51167, Kashan, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Chen SY, Chang CK, Lan CY. Antimicrobial peptide LL-37 disrupts plasma membrane and calcium homeostasis in Candida albicans via the Rim101 pathway. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0255123. [PMID: 37888991 PMCID: PMC10715129 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02551-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Candida albicans is a major human fungal pathogen, and antimicrobial peptides are key components of innate immunity. Studying the interplay between C. albicans and human antimicrobial peptides would enhance a better understanding of pathogen-host interactions. Moreover, potential applications of antimicrobial peptides in antifungal therapy have aroused great interest. This work explores new mechanisms of LL-37 against C. albicans and reveals the complex connection among calcium homeostasis, oxidative stress, signaling, and possibly organelle interaction. Notably, these findings support the possible use of antimicrobial peptides to prevent and treat fungal infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Yuan Chen
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Che-Kang Chang
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Yu Lan
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Department of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Liu Q, Wang L, He D, Wu Y, Liu X, Yang Y, Chen Z, Dong Z, Luo Y, Song Y. Application Value of Antimicrobial Peptides in Gastrointestinal Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16718. [PMID: 38069041 PMCID: PMC10706433 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal cancer is a common clinical malignant tumor disease that seriously endangers human health and lacks effective treatment methods. As part of the innate immune defense of many organisms, antimicrobial peptides not only have broad-spectrum antibacterial activity but also can specifically kill tumor cells. The positive charge of antimicrobial peptides under neutral conditions determines their high selectivity to tumor cells. In addition, antimicrobial peptides also have unique anticancer mechanisms, such as inducing apoptosis, autophagy, cell cycle arrest, membrane destruction, and inhibition of metastasis, which highlights the low drug resistance and high specificity of antimicrobial peptides. In this review, we summarize the related studies on antimicrobial peptides in the treatment of digestive tract tumors, mainly oral cancer, esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, and colorectal cancer. This paper describes the therapeutic advantages of antimicrobial peptides due to their unique anticancer mechanisms. The length, net charge, and secondary structure of antimicrobial peptides can be modified by design or modification to further enhance their anticancer effects. In summary, as an emerging cancer treatment drug, antimicrobial peptides need to be further studied to realize their application in gastrointestinal cancer diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Lei Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Dongxia He
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yuewei Wu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Xian Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yahan Yang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Zhizhi Chen
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Zhan Dong
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Ying Luo
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yuzhu Song
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Medical College, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Ki MR, Kim SH, Park TI, Pack SP. Self-Entrapment of Antimicrobial Peptides in Silica Particles for Stable and Effective Antimicrobial Peptide Delivery System. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16423. [PMID: 38003614 PMCID: PMC10671715 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have emerged as a promising solution to tackle bacterial infections and combat antibiotic resistance. However, their vulnerability to protease degradation and toxicity towards mammalian cells has hindered their clinical application. To overcome these challenges, our study aims to develop a method to enhance the stability and safety of AMPs applicable to effective drug-device combination products. The KR12 antimicrobial peptide was chosen, and in order to further enhance its delivery and efficacy the human immunodeficiency virus TAT protein-derived cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) was fused to form CPP-KR12. A new product, CPP-KR12@Si, was developed by forming silica particles with self-entrapped CPP-KR12 peptide using biomimetic silica precipitability because of its cationic nature. Peptide delivery from CPP-KR12@Si to bacteria and cells was observed at a slightly delivered rate, with improved stability against trypsin treatment and a reduction in cytotoxicity compared to CPP-KR12. Finally, the antimicrobial potential of the CPP-KR12@Si/bone graft substitute (BGS) combination product was demonstrated. CPP-KR12 is coated in the form of submicron-sized particles on the surface of the BGS. Self-entrapped AMP in silica nanoparticles is a safe and effective AMP delivery method that will be useful for developing a drug-device combination product for tissue regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Ran Ki
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong-ro 2511, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Industrial Technology, Korea University, Sejong-ro 2511, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Ho Kim
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong-ro 2511, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae In Park
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong-ro 2511, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Pil Pack
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea University, Sejong-ro 2511, Sejong 30019, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Hernández-Arvizu EE, Silis-Moreno TM, García-Arredondo JA, Rodríguez-Torres A, Cervantes-Chávez JA, Mosqueda J. Aquiluscidin, a Cathelicidin from Crotalus aquilus, and the Vcn-23 Derivative Peptide, Have Anti-Microbial Activity against Gram-Negative and Gram-Positive Bacteria. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2778. [PMID: 38004789 PMCID: PMC10673557 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11112778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-microbial peptides play a vital role in the defense mechanisms of various organisms performing functions that range from the elimination of microorganisms, through diverse mechanisms, to the modulation of the immune response, providing protection to the host. Among these peptides, cathelicidins, a well-studied family of anti-microbial peptides, are found in various animal species, including reptiles. Due to the rise in anti-microbial resistance, these compounds have been suggested as potential candidates for developing new drugs. In this study, we identified and characterized a cathelicidin-like peptide called Aquiluscidin (Aq-CATH) from transcripts obtained from the skin and oral mucosa of the Querétaro's dark rattlesnake, Crotalus aquilus. The cDNA was cloned, sequenced, and yielded a 566-base-pair sequence. Using bioinformatics, we predicted that the peptide precursor contains a signal peptide, a 101-amino-acid conserved cathelin domain, an anionic region, and a 34-amino-acid mature peptide in the C-terminal region. Aq-CATH and a derived 23-amino-acid peptide (Vcn-23) were synthesized, and their anti-microbial activity was evaluated against various species of bacteria in in vitro assays. The minimal inhibitory concentrations against bacteria ranged from 2 to 8 μg/mL for both peptides. Furthermore, at concentrations of up to 50 μM, they exhibited no significant hemolytic activity (<2.3% and <1.2% for Aquiluscidin and Vcn-23, respectively) against rat erythrocytes and displayed no significant cytotoxic activity at low concentrations (>65% cell viability at 25 µM). Finally, this study represents the first identification of an antimicrobial peptide in Crotalus aquilus, which belongs to the cathelicidin family and exhibits the characteristic features of these peptides. Both Aq-CATH and its derived molecule, Vcn-23, displayed remarkable inhibitory activity against all tested bacteria, highlighting their potential as promising candidates for further antimicrobial research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edwin Esaú Hernández-Arvizu
- Immunology and Vaccine Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences College, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico; (E.E.H.-A.)
- Ph.D. Program in Natural Sciences, Natural Sciences College, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico
| | - Teresa Monserrat Silis-Moreno
- Immunology and Vaccine Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences College, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico; (E.E.H.-A.)
| | - José Alejandro García-Arredondo
- Departamento de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario S/N, Queretaro 76010, Mexico;
| | - Angelina Rodríguez-Torres
- Natural Sciences College, Autonomous University of Querétaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico; (A.R.-T.); (J.A.C.-C.)
- Cuerpo Academico Salud Animal y Microbiología Ambiental, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico
| | | | - Juan Mosqueda
- Immunology and Vaccine Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences College, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico; (E.E.H.-A.)
- Cuerpo Academico Salud Animal y Microbiología Ambiental, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Ng WNI, Kalimuthu S, Law COK, Lee AHC, Lau TCK, Leung YY, Cheung GSP, Neelakantan P. Intracellular bacterial eradication using a novel peptide in vitro. Int Endod J 2023; 56:1360-1372. [PMID: 37615967 DOI: 10.1111/iej.13965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
AIM To determine the effect of a novel antimicrobial peptide (AMP; OP145) and cell-penetrating peptide (Octa-arginine/R8) conjugate on the killing of intracellular Enterococcus faecalis, compared to OP145 and an antibiotic combination recommended for regenerative endodontic procedures. METHODOLOGY The biocompatible concentrations of OP145 and OP145-R8 were determined by assessing their cytotoxicity against human macrophages and red blood cells. Spatiotemporal internalization of the peptides into macrophages was investigated qualitatively and quantitatively by confocal laser scanning microscopy and flow cytometry respectively. Killing of extracellular and intracellular E. faecalis OG1RF by the peptides was determined by counting the colony-forming units (CFU). Intracellular antibacterial activity of the peptides was compared to a double antibiotic combination. Confocal microscopy was used to confirm the intracellular bacterial eradication. Significant differences between the different test groups were analysed using one-way analysis of variance. p < .05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS Peptides at a concentration of 7.5 μmol/L were chosen for subsequent experiments based on the results of the alamarBlue™ cell viability assay and haemolytic assay. OP145-R8 selectively internalized into lysosomal compartments and the cytosol of macrophages. Conjugation with R8 improved the internalization of OP145 into macrophages in a temporal manner (70.53% at 1 h to 77.13% at 2 h), while no temporal increase was observed for OP145 alone (60.53% at 1 h with no increase at 2 h). OP145-R8 demonstrated significantly greater extracellular and intracellular antibacterial activity compared to OP145 at all investigated time-points and concentrations (p < .05). OP145-R8 at 7.5 μmol/L eradicated intracellular E. faecalis after 2 h (3.5 log reduction compared to the control; p < .05), while the antibiotics could not reduce more than 0.5 log CFU compared to the control (p > .05). Confocal microscopy showed complete absence of E. faecalis within the OP145-R8 treated macrophages. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study demonstrated that the conjugation of an AMP OP145 to a cell-penetrating peptide R8 eradicated extracellular and intracellular E. faecalis OG1RF without toxic effects on the host cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wing Nok Isaac Ng
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
| | | | - Carmen Oi Kwan Law
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
| | | | - Terrence Chi Kong Lau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
| | - Yiu Yan Leung
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
| | - Gary Shun Pan Cheung
- Department of Dental Surgery, University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Prasanna Neelakantan
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
- Department of Endodontics, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, University of the Pacific, San Francisco, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Moule MG, Benjamin AB, Buger ML, Herlan C, Lebedev M, Lin JS, Koster KJ, Wavare N, Adams LG, Bräse S, Barron AE, Cirillo JD. Peptide-mimetic treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a mouse model of respiratory infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.30.564794. [PMID: 37961726 PMCID: PMC10634950 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.30.564794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The rise of drug resistance has become a global crisis, with >1 million deaths due to resistant bacterial infections each year. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in particular, remains a serious problem with limited solutions due to complex resistance mechanisms that now lead to more than 32,000 multidrug-resistant (MDR) infections and over 2,000 deaths annually. While the emergence of resistant bacteria has become concerningly common, identification of useful new drug classes has been limited over the past 40+ years. We found that a potential novel therapeutic, the peptide-mimetic TM5, is effective at killing P. aeruginosa and displays sufficiently low toxicity for mammalian cells to allow for use in treatment of infections. Interestingly, TM5 kills P. aeruginosa more rapidly than traditional antibiotics, within 30-60 minutes in vitro , and is effective against a range of clinical isolates. In vivo , TM5 significantly reduced bacterial load in the lungs within 24 hours compared to untreated mice and demonstrated few adverse effects. Taken together, these observations suggest that TM5 shows promise as an alternative therapy for MDR P. aeruginosa respiratory infections.
Collapse
|
36
|
Miranda E, Bramono K, Yunir E, Reksodiputro MH, Suwarsa O, Rengganis I, Harahap AR, Subekti D, Suwarto S, Hayun H, Bardosono S, Baskoro JC. Efficacy of LL-37 cream in enhancing healing of diabetic foot ulcer: a randomized double-blind controlled trial. Arch Dermatol Res 2023; 315:2623-2633. [PMID: 37480520 PMCID: PMC10514151 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-023-02657-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Wound healing in DFU (diabetic foot ulcer) has prolonged inflammation phase and defective granulation tissue formation. LL-37 has antimicrobial property, induces angiogenesis, and keratinocyte migration and proliferation. This study analyzes the efficacy of LL-37 cream in enhancing wound healing rate and decreasing the levels of IL-1α, TNF-α, and the number of aerobic bacteria colonization in DFU with mild infection. This study was conducted from January 2020 to June 2021 in Jakarta. Subjects were instructed to apply either LL-37 cream or placebo cream twice a week for 4 weeks. Wounds were measured on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 and processed with ImageJ. The levels of LL-37, IL-1α, and TNF-α from wound fluid were measured using ELISA. The number of aerobic bacteria colonization was counted from the isolate grown in culture. The levels of LL-37 in DFU at baseline were equally low in both groups which were 1.07 (0.37-4.96) ng/mg protein in the LL-37 group and 1.11 (0.24-2.09) ng/mg protein in the placebo group. The increase in granulation index was consistently greater in the LL-37 group on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 (p = 0.031, 0.009, 0.006, and 0.037, respectively). The levels of IL-1α and TNF-α increased in both groups on days 14 and 21 (p > 0.05). The decrease in the number of aerobic bacteria colonization was greater in the LL-37 group on days 7, 14 and 21, but greater in the placebo group on day 28 (p > 0.05). In conclusion, LL-37 cream enhanced the healing rate of DFU with mild infection, but did not decrease the levels of IL-1α and TNF-α and the number of aerobic bacteria colonization. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT04098562.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eliza Miranda
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
| | - Kusmarinah Bramono
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Em Yunir
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Mirta H Reksodiputro
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Oki Suwarsa
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjajaran, Sumedang, Indonesia
| | - Iris Rengganis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Alida R Harahap
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Decy Subekti
- Faculty of Medicine, Oxford University Clinical Research Unit Indonesia, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Suhendro Suwarto
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Hayun Hayun
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| | - Saptawati Bardosono
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Joko C Baskoro
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Cafaro V, Bosso A, Di Nardo I, D’Amato A, Izzo I, De Riccardis F, Siepi M, Culurciello R, D’Urzo N, Chiarot E, Torre A, Pizzo E, Merola M, Notomista E. The Antimicrobial, Antibiofilm and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of P13#1, a Cathelicidin-like Achiral Peptoid. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1386. [PMID: 37895857 PMCID: PMC10610514 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) are powerful molecules with antimicrobial, antibiofilm and endotoxin-scavenging activities. These properties make CAMPs very attractive drugs in the face of the rapid increase in multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, but they are limited by their susceptibility to proteolytic degradation. An intriguing solution to this issue could be the development of functional mimics of CAMPs with structures that enable the evasion of proteases. Peptoids (N-substituted glycine oligomers) are an important class of peptidomimetics with interesting benefits: easy synthetic access, intrinsic proteolytic stability and promising bioactivities. Here, we report the characterization of P13#1, a 13-residue peptoid specifically designed to mimic cathelicidins, the best-known and most widespread family of CAMPs. P13#1 showed all the biological activities typically associated with cathelicidins: bactericidal activity over a wide spectrum of strains, including several ESKAPE pathogens; the ability to act in combination with different classes of conventional antibiotics; antibiofilm activity against preformed biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, comparable to that of human cathelicidin LL-37; limited toxicity; and an ability to inhibit LPS-induced proinflammatory effects which is comparable to that of "the last resource" antibiotic colistin. We further studied the interaction of P13#1 with SDS, LPSs and bacterial cells by using a fluorescent version of P13#1. Finally, in a subcutaneous infection mouse model, it showed antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities comparable to ampicillin and gentamicin without apparent toxicity. The collected data indicate that P13#1 is an excellent candidate for the formulation of new antimicrobial therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Cafaro
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (A.B.); (I.D.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (N.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Andrea Bosso
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (A.B.); (I.D.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (N.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Ilaria Di Nardo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (A.B.); (I.D.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (N.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Assunta D’Amato
- Department of Chemistry and Biology “A. Zambelli”, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy; (A.D.); (I.I.); (F.D.R.)
| | - Irene Izzo
- Department of Chemistry and Biology “A. Zambelli”, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy; (A.D.); (I.I.); (F.D.R.)
| | - Francesco De Riccardis
- Department of Chemistry and Biology “A. Zambelli”, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy; (A.D.); (I.I.); (F.D.R.)
| | - Marialuisa Siepi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (A.B.); (I.D.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (N.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Rosanna Culurciello
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (A.B.); (I.D.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (N.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Nunzia D’Urzo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (A.B.); (I.D.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (N.D.); (E.P.)
| | | | | | - Elio Pizzo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (A.B.); (I.D.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (N.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Marcello Merola
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (A.B.); (I.D.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (N.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Eugenio Notomista
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.C.); (A.B.); (I.D.N.); (M.S.); (R.C.); (N.D.); (E.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Mitra A, Paul S. Pathways of hLL-37 17-29 Aggregation Give Insight into the Mechanism of α-Amyloid Formation. J Phys Chem B 2023; 127:8162-8175. [PMID: 37707359 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c04742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
α-amyloids present a novel self-assembly principle that can be utilized to prepare functional biomaterials. Evidence of α-amyloid formation in the active core of the human LL-37 protein (comprising residues 17 to 29) was associated with this peptide's membranolytic property. Though mechanistic pathways of β-amyloid formation are known, such studies are scarce in α-amyloids. Modern computational techniques allow such mechanistic studies in molecular detail. Here, we propose aggregation pathways in hLL-3717-29 through molecular dynamics simulations. We first identified oligomers among peptides based on a distance criterion. The distribution of oligomers was then used to build Markov state models from which pathways were obtained using the framework of transition path theory. We checked the structural stability of the peptides during oligomerization, which is crucial from their functional point of view. We also investigated the key residues that participate in oligomer formation, the interactions between them, and the effect of residue mutations on the binding free energy of the peptides. Our findings suggest that larger oligomers are produced from the association of smaller and intermediate oligomers. The peptides retain their helical structure during aggregation with transient occurrences of 3-10 helix and turns. Hydrophobic interactions are vital in the aggregation of these peptides with Ile24 playing a crucial role. Mutation of this residue to alanine decreases the peptides' binding free energy, resulting in reduced aggregation tendency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aritra Mitra
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
| | - Sandip Paul
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Wei Z, Rolle MW, Camesano TA. Characterization of LL37 Binding to Collagen through Peptide Modification with a Collagen-Binding Domain. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:35370-35381. [PMID: 37779975 PMCID: PMC10536065 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c05328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Collagen-based biomaterials loaded with antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) present a promising approach for promoting wound healing while providing protection against infections. In our previous work, we modified the AMP LL37 by incorporating a collagen-binding domain (cCBD) as an anchoring unit for collagen-based wound dressings. We demonstrated that cCBD-modified LL37 (cCBD-LL37) exhibited improved retention on collagen after washing with PBS. However, the binding mechanism of cCBD-LL37 to collagen remained to be elucidated. In this study, we found that cCBD-LL37 showed a slightly higher affinity for collagen compared to LL37. Our results indicated that cCBD inhibited cCBD-LL37 binding to collagen but did not fully eliminate the binding. This suggests that cCBD-LL37 binding to collagen may involve more than just one-site-specific binding through the collagen-binding domain, with non-specific interactions also playing a role. Electrostatic studies revealed that both LL37 and cCBD-LL37 interact with collagen via long-range electrostatic forces, initiating low-affinity binding that transitions to close-range or hydrophobic interactions. Circular dichroism analysis showed that cCBD-LL37 exhibited enhanced structural stability compared to LL37 under varying ionic strengths and pH conditions, implying potential improvements in antimicrobial activity. Moreover, we demonstrated that the release of LL37 and cCBD-LL37 into the surrounding medium was influenced by the electrostatic environment, but cCBD could enhance the retention of peptide on collagen scaffolds. Collectively, these results provide important insights into cCBD-modified AMP-binding mechanisms and suggest that the addition of cCBD may enhance peptide structural stability and retention under varying electrostatic conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Wei
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic
Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, United States
| | - Marsha W. Rolle
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic
Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, United States
| | - Terri A. Camesano
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic
Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, United States
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Meghil MM, Cutler CW. Influence of Vitamin D on Periodontal Inflammation: A Review. Pathogens 2023; 12:1180. [PMID: 37764988 PMCID: PMC10537363 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12091180] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The active form of vitamin D is the hormonally active 1,25(OH)2D3 (Vit D) vitamin, which plays an important role in bone biology and host immunity. The vitamin D receptor (VDR) is a nuclear ligand-dependent transcription factor expressed by many cells. Ligation of VDR by VitD regulates a wide plethora of genes and physiologic functions through the formation of the complex Vit D-VDR signaling cascade. The influence of Vit D-VDR signaling in host immune response to microbial infection has been of interest to many researchers. This is particularly important in oral health and diseases, as oral mucosa is exposed to a complex microbiota, with certain species capable of causing disruption to immune homeostasis. In this review, we focus on the immune modulatory roles of Vit D in the bone degenerative oral disease, periodontitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed M. Meghil
- Department of Periodontics, The Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Christopher W. Cutler
- Department of Periodontics, The Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
van Gent ME, Schonkeren-Ravensbergen B, Achkif A, Beentjes D, Dolezal N, van Meijgaarden KE, Drijfhout JW, Nibbering PH. C-Terminal PEGylation Improves SAAP-148 Peptide's Immunomodulatory Activities. J Innate Immun 2023; 15:724-738. [PMID: 37725929 PMCID: PMC10601628 DOI: 10.1159/000534068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic antibacterial and anti-biofilm peptide (SAAP)-148 was developed to combat bacterial infections not effectively treatable with current antibiotics. SAAP-148 is highly effective against antimicrobial-resistant bacteria without inducing resistance; however, challenges for further development of SAAP-148 include its cytotoxicity and short circulation half-life. To circumvent these drawbacks, a library of SAAP-148 linked to polyethylene glycol (PEG) groups of various lengths was synthesized and screened for in vitro antibacterial activity and hemolytic activity. Results indicated that PEGylated SAAP-148 variants combine antibacterial activities with reduced hemolysis compared to SAAP-148. Interestingly, proinflammatory immunomodulatory activities of SAAP-148 were enhanced upon C-terminal PEGylation, with SAAP-148-PEG27 showing the most effect. SAAP-148-PEG27 enhanced SAAP-148's capacity to chemoattract human neutrophils and was able to more efficiently (re)direct M-CSF-induced monocyte-macrophage differentiation toward type 1 macrophages as opposed to SAAP-148. Furthermore, dendritic cells with a stronger mature expression profile were produced if monocytes were exposed to SAAP-148-PEG27 during monocyte-immature dendritic cell differentiation in comparison to SAAP-148. Parameters that influenced the immunomodulatory activities of the peptide-PEG conjugate include (i) the length of the PEG group, (ii) the position of PEG conjugation, and (iii) the peptide sequence. Together, these results indicate that SAAP-148-PEG27 is highly effective in redirecting monocyte-macrophage differentiation toward a proinflammatory phenotype and promoting monocyte-mature dendritic cell development. Therefore, SAAP-148-PEG27 may be a promising agent to modulate inadequate immune responses in case of tumors and chronically infected wounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam E. van Gent
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Asma Achkif
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Daan Beentjes
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Natasja Dolezal
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jan Wouter Drijfhout
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Peter H. Nibbering
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Amarh MA, Laryea MK, Borquaye LS. De novo peptides as potential antimicrobial agents. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19641. [PMID: 37809653 PMCID: PMC10558864 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The phenomenon of antimicrobial resistance threatens our ability to treat common infections. The clinical pipeline for new antimicrobials is pretty much dry and hence, there is a need for the development of new antimicrobial agents with low toxicities to help fight resistant microorganisms. This work aimed to design antimicrobial peptides with low toxicities using a database filtering technology and evaluate their bioactivities. The physicochemical properties of the designed peptides were explored with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Microbroth dilution and hemolytic assays were used to assess the peptides' antimicrobial activity and toxicity. The activity of combinations of the peptides and some standard antibiotics was tested by the checkerboard method. In general, the designed peptides had a charge of +2, chain length of 13, and hydrophobicity of 61%. The predicted secondary structures of the peptides were either extended conformations or alpha-helices, and these structures were found to fluctuate during the MD simulations, where coils, bends, and helices dominated. , of the peptides, BRG003, BRG004 and BRG002 had the greatest aggregation propensities, whereas BRG001, BRG005, and BRG006 exhibited lower aggregation propensities. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the peptides ranged from 0.015 to >1.879 μM, with BRGP-001 exhibiting high activity against MRSA with an MIC of 15 nM. BRGP-005 and BRGP-006 exhibited synergistic effects against Escherichia coliR when used in combination with erythromycin. At the minimum hemolytic concentration, the percentage of lysed erythrocytes was lower for all the peptides in comparison to the reference peptide, indicating low hemolytic activity. The study revealed the importance of peptide self-association in the antimicrobial activity of the peptides. These peptides provide a basis for the design of potent antimicrobial peptides that can further be developed for use in antimicrobial therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Amerley Amarh
- Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael Konney Laryea
- Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Lawrence Sheringham Borquaye
- Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Central Laboratory, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Han W, Camesano TA. LL37-Derived Fragments Improve the Antibacterial Potential of Penicillin G and Ampicillin against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1398. [PMID: 37760695 PMCID: PMC10525415 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12091398] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are a severe threat to public health. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are novel and potential antimicrobials with specific antibacterial mechanisms. Our aim was to study the potential of LL37, FK16, and FK13 to enhance the anti-MRSA activity of antibiotics in vitro, particularly penicillin G and ampicillin. Our results showed that FK16 and FK13 have more synergistic inhibitory effects to MRSA strains when combined with penicillin G and ampicillin. In addition, AMPs exhibited strong membrane permeabilizing properties, and membrane permeabilizing effects can provide a possible explanation for the improved antibacterial effects of antibiotics, since permeabilizing AMPs have the potential to increase the access of antibiotics. To further study the electrostatic interactions among cationic AMPs with negatively charged bacteria, we measured the zeta potentials of three MRSA strains and also neutralized three MRSA strains with the addition of cationic AMPs. Further, we demonstrated the connection between membrane permeabilization and zeta potential neutralization. Finally, we treated MRSA strains with AMPs and characterized the MICs of penicillin G and ampicillin. FK16 was the most promising AMP among the three AMPs, since exposure to FK16 decreased the MICs of both penicillin G and ampicillin for all MRSA strains and also demonstrated more synergistic combinations when combined with antibiotics. AMP exposure and subsequent membrane permeabilization provide a possible pathway to re-sensitize drug-resistant bacteria to traditional antibiotics. Re-sensitization may help preserve the effectiveness of traditional antibiotics, thus providing a potential new strategy for fighting MRSA infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Terri A. Camesano
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Hussein MM, Mohamed EM, Kamal TM, Deraz TE. Increased susceptibility to complicated pneumonia among egyptian children with FokI (rs2228570), not TaqI (rs731236), vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism in association with vitamin D deficiency: a case-control study. BMC Pediatr 2023; 23:394. [PMID: 37559014 PMCID: PMC10410927 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04192-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Determining a genetic contribution to the development of complicated community-acquired pneumonia in children may help understand underlying pathogenesis. We aimed to investigate the association between two vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms, FokI and TaqI, and susceptibility to complicated pneumonia in Egyptian children compared to uncomplicated pneumonia. Associations with 25 hydroxy-vitamin D serum level were studied. METHODS This was a case-control study that included 320 participants divided into 2 groups: patients and controls. The patients' group included 100 children hospitalized with complicated pneumonia and 100 with uncomplicated pneumonia. 120 age and sex-matched apparently healthy children served as controls. The VDR FokI and TaqI polymorphisms were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique. 25 hydroxy-vitamin D level was estimated in serum using ELISA. RESULTS Regarding FokI, homozygous CC genotype was more common in complicated (52%) than uncomplicated pneumonia (28%) and controls (10%) (OR = 65; 95%CI (5.13-822.63), p < 0.001) and (OR = 4.3; 95%CI (0.7-27.16), p = 0.003), respectively. Children carrying C allele possessed 3 higher odds for complicated than uncomplicated pneumonia (OR = 3.08; 95%CI (1.33-7.14), p < 0.001). Heterozygous CT genotype increased susceptibility to complicated pneumonia (OR = 13.7; 95%CI (4.6-40.1), p < 0.001), not uncomplicated pneumonia (OR = 1.56; 95%CI (0.86-2.85), p = 0.145). Among complicated pneumonia, vitamin D level was lower in CC (6.92 ± 2.6ng/ml) than CT (9.55 ± 3.2 ng/ml) and TT genotype carriers (13.13 ± 3.6ng/ml) (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between patients and controls as regards TaqI genotypes and alleles. CONCLUSION In association with vitamin D deficiency, VDR gene FokI polymorphism, not TaqI, is a genetic risk factor for complicated pneumonia in Egyptian children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahitab Morsy Hussein
- Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 1156, Egypt.
| | - Enas Maher Mohamed
- Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 1156, Egypt
| | - Tarek Mostafa Kamal
- Medical Genetics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Tharwat Ezzat Deraz
- Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 1156, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Scrivo R, D'Angelo S, Carriero A, Castellani C, Perrotta FM, Conti F, Vecellio M, Selmi C, Lubrano E. The Conundrum of Psoriatic Arthritis: a Pathogenetic and Clinical Pattern at the Midpoint of Autoinflammation and Autoimmunity. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2023; 65:72-85. [PMID: 35040085 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-021-08914-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by psoriasis, synovitis, enthesitis, spondylitis, and the possible association with other extra-articular manifestations and comorbidities. It is a multifaceted and systemic disorder sustained by complex pathogenesis, combining aspects of autoinflammation and autoimmunity. Features of PsA autoinflammation include the role of biomechanical stress in the onset and/or exacerbation of the disease; the evidence of involvement of the innate immune response mediators in the skin, peripheral blood and synovial tissue; an equal gender distribution; the clinical course which may encounter periods of prolonged remission and overlapping features with autoinflammatory syndromes. Conversely, the role of autoimmunity is evoked by the association with class I major histocompatibility complex alleles, the polyarticular pattern of the disease which sometimes resembles rheumatoid arthritis and the presence of serum autoantibodies. Genetics also provide important insights into the pathogenesis of PsA, particularly related to class I HLA being associated with psoriasis and PsA. In this review, we provide a comprehensive review of the pathogenesis, genetics and clinical features of PsA that endorse the mixed nature of a disorder at the crossroads of autoinflammation and autoimmunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rossana Scrivo
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore D'Angelo
- Rheumatology Institute of Lucania (IReL) - Rheumatology Department of Lucania, San Carlo Hospital of Potenza and Madonna Delle Grazie Hospital of Matera, Potenza, Italy
| | - Antonio Carriero
- Rheumatology Institute of Lucania (IReL) - Rheumatology Department of Lucania, San Carlo Hospital of Potenza and Madonna Delle Grazie Hospital of Matera, Potenza, Italy
- Dipartimento Di Medicina E Scienze Della Salute, Università Degli Studi del Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Chiara Castellani
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Massimo Perrotta
- Dipartimento Di Medicina E Scienze Della Salute, Università Degli Studi del Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Conti
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Vecellio
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, MI, Italy
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Botnar Research Center, Oxford, UK
| | - Carlo Selmi
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, MI, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, MI, Italy
| | - Ennio Lubrano
- Dipartimento Di Medicina E Scienze Della Salute, Università Degli Studi del Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Ioannou P, Baliou S, Kofteridis DP. Antimicrobial Peptides in Infectious Diseases and Beyond-A Narrative Review. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1651. [PMID: 37629508 PMCID: PMC10455936 DOI: 10.3390/life13081651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite recent medical research and clinical practice developments, the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) significantly limits therapeutics for infectious diseases. Thus, novel treatments for infectious diseases, especially in this era of increasing AMR, are urgently needed. There is ongoing research on non-classical therapies for infectious diseases utilizing alternative antimicrobial mechanisms to fight pathogens, such as bacteriophages or antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). AMPs are evolutionarily conserved molecules naturally produced by several organisms, such as plants, insects, marine organisms, and mammals, aiming to protect the host by fighting pathogenic microorganisms. There is ongoing research regarding developing AMPs for clinical use in infectious diseases. Moreover, AMPs have several other non-medical applications in the food industry, such as preservatives, animal husbandry, plant protection, and aquaculture. This review focuses on AMPs, their origins, biology, structure, mechanisms of action, non-medical applications, and clinical applications in infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petros Ioannou
- School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Stella Baliou
- Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Diamantis P. Kofteridis
- School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Kim H, Lichtenstein AH, Ganz P, Miller ER, Coresh J, Appel LJ, Rebholz CM. Associations of circulating proteins with lipoprotein profiles: proteomic analyses from the OmniHeart randomized trial and the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study. Clin Proteomics 2023; 20:27. [PMID: 37400771 PMCID: PMC10316599 DOI: 10.1186/s12014-023-09416-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Within healthy dietary patterns, manipulation of the proportion of macronutrient can reduce CVD risk. However, the biological pathways underlying healthy diet-disease associations are poorly understood. Using an untargeted, large-scale proteomic profiling, we aimed to (1) identify proteins mediating the association between healthy dietary patterns varying in the proportion of macronutrient and lipoproteins, and (2) validate the associations between diet-related proteins and lipoproteins in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study. METHODS In 140 adults from the OmniHeart trial, a randomized, cross-over, controlled feeding study with 3 intervention periods (carbohydrate-rich; protein-rich; unsaturated fat-rich dietary patterns), 4,958 proteins were quantified at the end of each diet intervention period using an aptamer assay (SomaLogic). We assessed differences in log2-transformed proteins in 3 between-diet comparisons using paired t-tests, examined the associations between diet-related proteins and lipoproteins using linear regression, and identified proteins mediating these associations using a causal mediation analysis. Levels of diet-related proteins and lipoprotein associations were validated in the ARIC study (n = 11,201) using multivariable linear regression models, adjusting for important confounders. RESULTS Three between-diet comparisons identified 497 significantly different proteins (protein-rich vs. carbohydrate-rich = 18; unsaturated fat-rich vs. carbohydrate-rich = 335; protein-rich vs. unsaturated fat-rich dietary patterns = 398). Of these, 9 proteins [apolipoprotein M, afamin, collagen alpha-3(VI) chain, chitinase-3-like protein 1, inhibin beta A chain, palmitoleoyl-protein carboxylesterase NOTUM, cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, guanylate-binding protein 2, COP9 signalosome complex subunit 7b] were positively associated with lipoproteins [high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol (C) = 2; triglyceride = 5; non-HDL-C = 3; total cholesterol to HDL-C ratio = 1]. Another protein, sodium-coupled monocarboxylate transporter 1, was inversely associated with HDL-C and positively associated with total cholesterol to HDL-C ratio. The proportion of the association between diet and lipoproteins mediated by these 10 proteins ranged from 21 to 98%. All of the associations between diet-related proteins and lipoproteins were significant in the ARIC study, except for afamin. CONCLUSIONS We identified proteins that mediate the association between healthy dietary patterns varying in macronutrients and lipoproteins in a randomized feeding study and an observational study. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT00051350 at clinicaltrials.gov.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyunju Kim
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 2024 East Monument Street, Suite 2-500, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Alice H. Lichtenstein
- Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, Boston, MA USA
| | - Peter Ganz
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Edgar R. Miller
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 2024 East Monument Street, Suite 2-500, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD USA
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Josef Coresh
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 2024 East Monument Street, Suite 2-500, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD USA
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Lawrence J. Appel
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 2024 East Monument Street, Suite 2-500, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD USA
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Casey M. Rebholz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 2024 East Monument Street, Suite 2-500, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology, and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD USA
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Kanse S, Khandelwal M, Pandey RK, Khokhar M, Desai N, Kumbhar BV. Designing a Multi-Epitope Subunit Vaccine against VP1 Major Coat Protein of JC Polyomavirus. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1182. [PMID: 37514998 PMCID: PMC10386578 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11071182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The JC polyomavirus virus (JCPyV) affects more than 80% of the human population in their early life stage. It mainly affects immunocompromised individuals where virus replication in oligodendrocytes and astrocytes may lead to fatal progressive multifocal encephalopathy (PML). Virus protein 1 (VP1) is one of the major structural proteins of the viral capsid, responsible for keeping the virus alive in the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts. VP1 is often targeted for antiviral drug and vaccine development. Similarly, this study implied immune-informatics and molecular modeling methods to design a multi-epitope subunit vaccine targeting JCPyV. The VP1 protein epitopic sequences, which are highly conserved, were used to build the vaccine. This designed vaccine includes two adjuvants, five HTL epitopes, five CTL epitopes, and two BCL epitopes to stimulate cellular, humoral, and innate immune responses against the JCPyV. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulation (100 ns) studies were used to examine the interaction and stability of the vaccine protein with TLR4. Trajectory analysis showed that the vaccine and TLR4 receptor form a stable complex. Overall, this study may contribute to the path of vaccine development against JCPyV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sukhada Kanse
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai 400056, Maharashtra, India (N.D.)
| | - Mehak Khandelwal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai 400056, Maharashtra, India (N.D.)
| | - Rajan Kumar Pandey
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Manoj Khokhar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jodhpur 342005, Rajasthan, India
| | - Neetin Desai
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai 400056, Maharashtra, India (N.D.)
| | - Bajarang Vasant Kumbhar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai 400056, Maharashtra, India (N.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Wang X, Feng L, Li M, Dong W, Luo X, Shang D. Membrane-active and DNA binding related double-action antimycobacterial mechanism of antimicrobial peptide W3R6 and its synthetic analogs. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2023:130415. [PMID: 37336295 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2023.130415] [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: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of multidrug- or extremely drug-resistant M. tuberculosis strains has made very few drugs available for current tuberculosis treatment. Antimicrobial peptides can be employed as a promising alternative strategy for TB treatment. Here, we designed and synthesized a series of peptide sequences based on the structure-activity relationships of natural sequences of antimicrobial peptides. The peptide W3R6 and its analogs were screened and found to have potent antimycobacterial activity against M. smegmatis, and no hemolytic activity against human erythrocytes. The evidence from the mechanism of action study indicated that W3R6 and its analogs can interact with the mycobacterial membrane in a lytic manner and form pores on the outer membrane of M. smegmatis. Significant colocalization of D-W3R6 with mycobacterial DNA was observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy and DNA retardation assays, which suggested that the antimycobacterial mechanism of action of the peptide was associated with the unprotected genomic DNA of M. smegmatis. In general, W3R6 and its analogs act on not only the mycobacterial membrane but also the genomic DNA in the cytoplasm, which makes it difficult for mycobacteria to generate resistance due to the peptides having two targets. In addition, the peptides can effectively eliminate M. smegmatis cells from infected macrophages. Our findings indicated that the antimicrobial peptide W3R6 could be a novel lead compound to overcome the threat from drug-resistant M. tuberculosis strains in the development of potent AMPs for TB therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorui Wang
- School of Life Science, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian 116081, China
| | - Liubin Feng
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Mengmiao Li
- School of Life Science, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian 116081, China
| | - Weibing Dong
- School of Life Science, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian 116081, China; Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Drug Discovery, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian 116081, China.
| | - Xueyue Luo
- School of Life Science, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian 116081, China
| | - Dejing Shang
- School of Life Science, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian 116081, China; Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Drug Discovery, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian 116081, China.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Biswas S, Sarojini S, Jayaram S, Philip I, Umesh M, Mascarenhas R, Pappuswamy M, Balasubramanian B, Arokiyaraj S. Understanding the Role of Antimicrobial Peptides in Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Promoting Autoimmune Disorders. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1307. [PMID: 37374090 DOI: 10.3390/life13061307] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
AMPs are small oligopeptides acting as integral elements of the innate immune system and are of tremendous potential in the medical field owing to their antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities. They offer a multitude of immunomodulatory properties such as immune cell differentiation, inflammatory responses, cytokine production, and chemoattraction. Aberrancy in neutrophil or epithelial cell-producing AMPs leads to inflammation culminating in various autoimmune responses. In this review, we have tried to explore the role of prominent mammalian AMPs-defensins and cathelicidins, as immune regulators with special emphasis on their role in neutrophil extracellular traps which promotes autoimmune disorders. When complexed with self-DNA or self-RNA, AMPs act as autoantigens which activate plasmacytoid dendritic cells and myeloid dendritic cells leading to the production of interferons and cytokines. These trigger a series of self-directed inflammatory reactions, leading to the emergence of diverse autoimmune disorders. Since AMPs show both anti- and pro-inflammatory abilities in different ADs, there is a dire need for a complete understanding of their role before developing AMP-based therapy for autoimmune disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soma Biswas
- Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru 560029, India
| | - Suma Sarojini
- Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru 560029, India
| | - Saranya Jayaram
- Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru 560029, India
| | - Indhu Philip
- Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru 560029, India
| | - Mridul Umesh
- Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru 560029, India
| | - Roseanne Mascarenhas
- Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru 560029, India
| | - Manikantan Pappuswamy
- Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru 560029, India
| | | | - Selvaraj Arokiyaraj
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|