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Johnson N, Pattinson C, Burgoyne K, Hijazi K, Houssen WE, Milne BF. SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein-Derived Cyclic Peptides as Modulators of Spike Interaction with GRP78. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202300789. [PMID: 38613462 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300789] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
The human glucose-regulated protein GRP78 is a human chaperone that translocactes to the cell surface when cells are under stress. Theoretical studies suggested it could be involved in SARS-CoV-2 virus entry to cells. In this work, we used in vitro surface plasmon resonance-based assays to show that human GRP78 indeed binds to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. We have designed and synthesised cyclic peptides based on the loop structure of amino acids 480-488 of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein S1 domain from the Wuhan and Omicron variants and showed that both peptides bind to GRP78. Consistent with the greater infectiousness of the Omicron variant, the Omicron-derived peptide displays slower dissociation from the target protein. Both peptides significantly inhibit the binding of wild-type S1 protein to the human protein GRP78 suggesting that further development of these cyclic peptide motifs may provide a viable route to novel anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Johnson
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Ashgrove Road West, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Craig Pattinson
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Kate Burgoyne
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Karolin Hijazi
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Wael E Houssen
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Ashgrove Road West, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
- Department of Chemistry, University of Aberdeen, Meston Walk, Aberdeen, AB24 3UE, UK
| | - Bruce F Milne
- Department of Chemistry, University of Aberdeen, Meston Walk, Aberdeen, AB24 3UE, UK
- CFisUC, Department of Physics, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-516, Coimbra, Portugal
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2
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Shafiq A, Khalid U, Abdur Rehman U, Abdullah Almuqri E, Muddassir M, Ahmad S, Khan MI, Khan A, Wei DQ. Structural basis for the mechanism of interaction of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.640.2 variant RBD with the host receptors hACE2 and GRP78. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:2034-2042. [PMID: 37286365 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2220053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The inflicted chaos instigated by the SARS-CoV-2 (Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) globally continues with the emergence of novel variants. The current global outbreak is aggravated by the manifestation of novel variants, which affect the effectiveness of the vaccine, attachment with hACE2 (human Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) and immune evasion. Recently, a new variant named University Hospital Institute (IHU) (B.1.640.2) was reported in France in November 2021 and is spreading globally affecting public healthcare. The B.1.640.2 SARS-CoV-2 strain revealed 14 mutations and 9 deletions in spike protein. Thus, it is important to understand how these variations in the spike protein impact the communication with the host. A protein coupling approach along with molecular simulation protocols was used to interpret the variation in the binding of the wild type (WT) and B.1.640.2 variant with hACE2 and Glucose-regulating protein 78 (GRP78) receptors. The initial docking scores revealed a stronger binding of the B.1.640.2-RBD with both the hACE2 and GRP78. To further understand the crucial dynamic changes, we looked at the structural and dynamic characteristics and also explored the variations in the bonding networks between the WT and B.1.640.2-RBD (receptor-binding domain) in association with hACE2 and GRP78, respectively. Our findings revealed that the variant complex demonstrated distinct dynamic properties in contrast to the wild type due to the acquired mutations. Finally, to provide conclusive evidence on the higher binding by the B.1.640.2 variant the TBE was computed for each complex. For the WT with hACE2 the TBE was quantified to be-61.38 ± 0.96 kcal/mol and for B.1.640.2 variant the TBE was estimated to be -70.47 ± 1.00 kcal/mol. For the WT-RBD-GRP78 the TBE -was computed to be 32.32 ± 0.56 kcal/mol and for the B.1.640.2-RBD a TBE of -50.39 ± 0.88 kcal/mol was reported. This show that these mutations are the basis for higher binding and infectivity produced by B.1.640.2 variant and can be targeted for drug designing against it.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athar Shafiq
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biological Statistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Ujala Khalid
- Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Umar Abdur Rehman
- Aziz Fatimah Medical and Dental College, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Eman Abdullah Almuqri
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maria Muddassir
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, The University of Lahore (UOL), Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Sajjad Ahmad
- Department of Health and Biological Sciences, Abasyn University, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Idrees Khan
- Department of Instrument Science and Engineering, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Abbas Khan
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biological Statistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Zhongjing Research and Industrialization Institute of Chinese Medicine, Nayang, Henan, P.R. China
| | - Dong-Qing Wei
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biological Statistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Zhongjing Research and Industrialization Institute of Chinese Medicine, Nayang, Henan, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai-Islamabad-Belgrade Joint Innovation Center on Antibacterial Resistances, Joint Laboratory of International Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, Ministry of Education and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Peng Cheng Laboratory, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
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3
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Amin FG, Elfiky AA, Nassar AM. In silico targeting of SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor-binding domain from different variants with chaga mushroom terpenoids. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:1079-1087. [PMID: 37042960 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2199084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Terpenoids from the chaga mushroom have been identified as potential antiviral agents against SARS-CoV-2. This is because it can firmly bind to the viral spike receptor binding domain (RBD) and the auxiliary host cell receptor glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78). The current work examines the association of the chaga mushroom terpenoids with the RBD of various SARS-CoV-2 variants, including alpha, beta, gamma, delta, and omicron. This association was compared to the SARS-CoV-2 wild-type (WT) RBD using molecular docking analysis and molecular dynamics modeling. The outcomes demonstrated that the mutant RBDs, which had marginally greater average binding affinities (better binding) than the WT, were successfully inhibited by the chaga mushroom terpenoids. The results suggest that the chaga mushroom can be effective against various SARS-CoV-2 variants by targeting both the host-cell surface receptor GRP78 and the viral spike RBD.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma G Amin
- Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Abdo A Elfiky
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Aaya M Nassar
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
- Department of Clinical Research and Leadership, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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4
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Abu-Mahfouz A, Ali M, Elfiky A. Anti-breast cancer drugs targeting cell-surface glucose-regulated protein 78: a drug repositioning in silico study. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:7794-7808. [PMID: 36129131 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2125076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is prevalent worldwide and is a leading cause of death among women. However, cell-surface glucose-regulated protein 78 (cs-GRP78) is overexpressed in several types of cancer and during pathogen infections. This study examines two well-known BC drugs approved by the FDA as BC treatments to GRP78. The first type consists of inhibitors of cyclin-based kinases 4/6, including abemaciclib, palbociclib, ribociclib, and dinaciclib. In addition, tunicamycin, and doxorubicin, which are among the most effective anticancer drugs for early and late-stage BC, are tested against GRP78. As (-)-epiGallocatechin gallate inhibits GRP78, it is also being evaluated (used as positive control). Thus, using molecular dynamics simulation approaches, this study aims to examine the advantages of targeting GRP78, which represents a promising cancer therapy regime. In light of recent advances in computational drug response prediction models, this study aimed to examine the benefits of GRP78 targeting, which represents a promising cancer therapy regime, by utilizing combined molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation approaches. The simulated protein (50 ns) was docked with the drugs, then a second round of dynamics simulation was performed for 100 ns. After that, the binding free energies were calculated from 30 to 100 ns for each complex during the simulation period. These findings demonstrate the efficacy of abemaciclib, ribociclib, and tunicamycin in binding to the nucleotide-binding domain of the GRP78, paving the way for elucidating the mode of interactions between these drugs and cancer (and other stressed) cells that overexpress GRP78.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Abu-Mahfouz
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Maha Ali
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Abdo Elfiky
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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5
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Li T, Fu J, Cheng J, Elfiky AA, Wei C, Fu J. New progresses on cell surface protein HSPA5/BiP/GRP78 in cancers and COVID-19. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1166680. [PMID: 37275848 PMCID: PMC10232979 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1166680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Heat-shock-protein family A (Hsp70) member 5 (HSPA5), aliases GRP78 or BiP, is a protein encoded with 654 amino acids by the HSPA5 gene located on human chromosome 9q33.3. When the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) was stressed, HSPA5 translocated to the cell surface, the mitochondria, and the nucleus complexed with other proteins to execute its functions. On the cell surface, HSPA5/BiP/GRP78 can play diverse functional roles in cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, attachments, and innate and adaptive immunity regulations, which lead to various diseases, including cancers and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, which caused the pandemic since the first outbreak in late December 2019. HSPA5, highly expressed in the malignant tumors, likely plays a critical role in SARS-CoV-2 invasion/attack in cancer patients via tumor tissues. In the current study, we review the newest research progresses on cell surface protein HSPA5 expressions, functions, and mechanisms for cancers and SARS-CoV-2 invasion. The therapeutic and prognostic significances and prospects in cancers and COVID-19 disease by targeting HSPA5 are also discussed. Targeting HSPA5 expression by natural products may imply the significance in clinical for both anti-COVID-19 and anti-cancers in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiewen Fu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jingliang Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Abdo A. Elfiky
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Chunli Wei
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Junjiang Fu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
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6
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Elfiky AA, Ibrahim IM, Ibrahim MN, Elshemey WM. Host-cell recognition of SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor binding domain from different variants. J Infect 2022; 85:702-769. [PMID: 36220503 PMCID: PMC9547754 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2022.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Abdo A Elfiky
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt,Corresponding author
| | - Ibrahim M Ibrahim
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed N Ibrahim
- Clinical Laboratories Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakakah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wael M Elshemey
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt,Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Madinah, Madinah 42351, Saudi Arabia
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Shin WJ, Ha DP, Machida K, Lee AS. The stress-inducible ER chaperone GRP78/BiP is upregulated during SARS-CoV-2 infection and acts as a pro-viral protein. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6551. [PMID: 36376289 PMCID: PMC9663498 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34065-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Woo-Jin Shin
- grid.418628.10000 0004 0481 997XFlorida Research and Innovation Center, Cleveland Clinic, Port St. Lucie, FL 34987 USA
| | - Dat P. Ha
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033 USA ,grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033 USA
| | - Keigo Machida
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033 USA
| | - Amy S. Lee
- grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033 USA ,grid.42505.360000 0001 2156 6853Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033 USA
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8
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Elfiky AA, Ibrahim IM, Elgohary AM. SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant is Recognized Through GRP78 Host-Cell Surface Receptor, In Silico Perspective. Int J Pept Res Ther 2022; 28:146. [PMID: 36034049 PMCID: PMC9395890 DOI: 10.1007/s10989-022-10450-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Different SARS-CoV-2 new variants emerged and spread during the past few months, sparking infections and death counts. The new variant B.1.617 (delta variant) sparked in India in the past few months, causing the highest records. The B.1.617 variant of SARS-CoV-2 has the double mutations E484Q and L452R on its spike Receptor Binding Domain (RBD). The first mutation is like the reported South African and the Brazilian variants (501.V2 and B.1.1.248). This mutation lies in the region C480-C488, which we predicted before to be recognized by the host-cell receptor; Glucose Regulated Protein 78 (GRP78). In the current study, we test the binding affinity of the host-cell receptor GRP78 to the delta variant spike RBD using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations of up to 100 ns. Additionally, the ACE2-RBD is tested by protein–protein docking. The results reveal equal average binding affinities of the GRP78 against wildtype and delta variant spikes. This supports our previous predictions of the contribution of GRP78 in SARS-CoV-2 spike recognition as an auxiliary route for entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdo A. Elfiky
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim M. Ibrahim
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Alaa M. Elgohary
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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Muthu V, Dhaliwal M, Sharma A, Nair D, Kumar HM, Rudramurthy SM, Sehgal IS, Choudhary H, Panda N, Chakrabarti A, Agarwal R. Serum glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) levels in COVID-19-associated mucormycosis: results of a case-control study. Mycopathologia 2022; 187:355-362. [PMID: 35727491 PMCID: PMC9209319 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-022-00645-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In experimental models, the expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) in endothelial cells played a role in the pathogenesis of mucormycosis. However, the role of GRP78 in COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) has not been studied. We hypothesized that serum GRP78 levels are elevated in subjects with CAM. OBJECTIVE To compare the serum GRP78 levels in subjects with CAM and COVID-19 controls without mucormycosis. DESIGN AND SETTING We performed a hospital-based, case-control study between 1 April 2021 and 31 May 2021. PARTICIPANTS We enrolled 24 subjects each of CAM and COVID-19 subjects without mucormycosis. We also measured serum GRP78 levels in ten healthy controls. EXPOSURE The primary exposure studied was serum GRP78 concentration, estimated using a commercially available ELISA kit in stored serum samples. RESULTS We found the mean ± standard deviation (SD) serum GRP78 levels significantly higher (p = 0.0001) among the CAM (374.3 ± 127.3 pg/mL) than the COVID-19 (246.4 ± 67.0 pg/mL) controls. The proportion of subjects with an abnormal GRP78 level (> mean [184.8 pg/mL] plus two SD [23.2 pg/mL] of GRP78 from healthy participants) was 87.5% and 45.8% in the CAM group and COVID-19 controls, respectively. Serum GRP78 level was independently associated with CAM (odds ratio 1.011; 95% confidence interval [1.002-1.019]) after adjusting for diabetes mellitus and hypoxemia during acute COVID-19. CONCLUSION Serum GRP78 levels were significantly higher in CAM than in COVID-19 controls. Further studies are required to the role of GRP78 in the pathogenesis of CAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valliappan Muthu
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Sector-12, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Manpreet Dhaliwal
- Department of Pediatrics, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Arunima Sharma
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Divya Nair
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Sector-12, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - H Mohan Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Shivaprakash M Rudramurthy
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Inderpaul Singh Sehgal
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Sector-12, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Hansraj Choudhary
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Naresh Panda
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Arunaloke Chakrabarti
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ritesh Agarwal
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Sector-12, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
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10
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Elshemey WM, Elfiky AA, Ibrahim IM, Elgohary AM. Interference of Chaga mushroom terpenoids with the attachment of SARS-CoV-2; in silico perspective. Comput Biol Med 2022; 145:105478. [PMID: 35421790 PMCID: PMC8988443 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2022.105478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Finding a potent inhibitor to the pandemic SARS-CoV-2 is indispensable nowadays. Currently, in-silico methods work as expeditious investigators to screen drugs for possible repurposing or design new ones. Targeting one of the possible SARS-CoV-2 attachment and entry receptors, Glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78), is an approach of major interest. Recently, GRP78 was reported as a recognized representative in recognition of the latest variants of SARS-CoV-2. In this work, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were performed on the host cell receptor GRP78. With its many terpenoid compounds, Chaga mushroom was tested as a potential therapeutic against the SARS-CoV-2 receptor, GRP78. Results revealed low binding energies (high affinities) toward the GRP78 substrate-binding domain β (SBDβ) of Chaga mushroom terpenoids. Even the highly specific cyclic peptide Pep42, which selectively targeted GRP78 over cancer cells in vivo, showed lower binding affinity against GRP78 SBDβ compared to the binding affinities of terpenoids. These are auspicious results that need to be tested experimentally. Intriguingly, terpenoids work as a double sword as they can be used to interfere with VUI 202,012/01, 501.V2, and B.1.1.248 variants of SARS-CoV-2 spike recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wael M. Elshemey
- Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Madinah, Madinah, Saudi Arabia,Corresponding author
| | - Abdo A. Elfiky
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim M. Ibrahim
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Alaa M. Elgohary
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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11
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Petrenko VA, Gillespie JW, De Plano LM, Shokhen MA. Phage-Displayed Mimotopes of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Targeted to Authentic and Alternative Cellular Receptors. Viruses 2022; 14:v14020384. [PMID: 35215976 PMCID: PMC8879608 DOI: 10.3390/v14020384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 virus during the COVID-19 pandemic was accompanied by the emergence of new heavily mutated viral variants with increased infectivity and/or resistance to detection by the human immune system. To respond to the urgent need for advanced methods and materials to empower a better understanding of the mechanisms of virus’s adaptation to human host cells and to the immuno-resistant human population, we suggested using recombinant filamentous bacteriophages, displaying on their surface foreign peptides termed “mimotopes”, which mimic the structure of viral receptor-binding sites on the viral spike protein and can serve as molecular probes in the evaluation of molecular mechanisms of virus infectivity. In opposition to spike-binding antibodies that are commonly used in studying the interaction of the ACE2 receptor with SARS-CoV-2 variants in vitro, phage spike mimotopes targeted to other cellular receptors would allow discovery of their role in viral infection in vivo using cell culture, tissue, organs, or the whole organism. Phage mimotopes of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike S1 protein have been developed using a combination of phage display and molecular mimicry concepts, termed here “phage mimicry”, supported by bioinformatics methods. The key elements of the phage mimicry concept include: (1) preparation of a collection of p8-type (landscape) phages, which interact with authentic active receptors of live human cells, presumably mimicking the binding interactions of human coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and its variants; (2) discovery of closely related amino acid clusters with similar 3D structural motifs on the surface of natural ligands (FGF1 and NRP1), of the model receptor of interest FGFR and the S1 spike protein; and (3) an ELISA analysis of the interaction between candidate phage mimotopes with FGFR3 (a potential alternative receptor) in comparison with ACE2 (the authentic receptor).
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Affiliation(s)
- Valery A. Petrenko
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Correspondence: (V.A.P.); (J.W.G.); Tel.: +1-334-844-2897 (V.A.P.); +1-334-844-2625 (J.W.G.)
| | - James W. Gillespie
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Correspondence: (V.A.P.); (J.W.G.); Tel.: +1-334-844-2897 (V.A.P.); +1-334-844-2625 (J.W.G.)
| | - Laura Maria De Plano
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy;
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12
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Elfiky AA, Ibrahim IM. Host-cell recognition through Cs-GRP78 is enhanced in the new Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2, in silico structural point of view. J Infect 2022; 84:722-746. [PMID: 35063456 PMCID: PMC8767908 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2022.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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13
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Eid JI, Das B, Al‐Tuwaijri MM, Basal WT. Targeting SARS-CoV-2 with Chaga mushroom: An in silico study toward developing a natural antiviral compound. Food Sci Nutr 2021; 9:6513-6523. [PMID: 34900242 PMCID: PMC8645752 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.2576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has caused large-scale global outbreaks and mainly mediates host cell entry through the interaction of its spike (S) protein with the human angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) receptor. As there is no effective treatment for SARS-CoV-2 to date, it is imperative to explore the efficacy of new compounds that possess potential antiviral activity. In this study, we assessed the potential binding interaction of the beneficial components of Chaga mushroom, a natural anti-inflammatory and immune booster with that of the SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) using molecular docking, MD simulation, and phylogenetic analysis. Beta glycan, betulinic acid, and galactomannan constituents of Chaga mushroom exhibited strong binding interaction (-7.4 to -8.6 kcal/mol) forming multivalent hydrogen and non-polar bonds with the viral S1-carboxy-terminal domain of the RBD. Specifically, the best interacting sites for beta glycan comprised ASN-440, SER 373, TRP-436, ASN-343, and ARG 509 with average binding energy of -8.4 kcal/mol. The best interacting sites of galactomannan included ASN-437, SER 373, TRP-436, ASN-343, and ALA 344 with a mean binding energy of -7.4 kcal/mol; and the best interacting sites of betulinic acid were ASN-437, SER 373, TRP-436, PHE 342, ARG 509, and ALA 344 that strongly interacted with the S-protein (ΔG = -8.1 kcal/mol). The docking results were also compared with an S-protein binding analog, NAG and depicted similar binding affinities compared with that of the ligands (-8.67 kcal/mol). In addition, phylogenetic analysis using global isolates depicted that the current SARS-CoV-2 isolates possessed a furin cleavage site (NSPRRA) in the RBD, which was absent in the previous isolates that indicated increased efficacy of the present virus for enhanced infection through increased interaction with ACE-2. The results showed that Chaga could be an effective natural antiviral that can supplement the current anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Biswadeep Das
- School of BiotechnologyKIIT UniversityBhubaneswarIndia
| | | | - Wesam Taha Basal
- Department of ZoologyFaculty of ScienceCairo UniversityCairoEgypt
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14
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Crone CG, Helweg-Larsen J, Steensen M, Arendrup MC, Helleberg M. Pulmonary mucormycosis in the aftermath of critical COVID-19 in an immunocompromised patient: Mind the diagnostic gap. J Mycol Med 2021; 32:101228. [PMID: 34826672 PMCID: PMC8600800 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2021.101228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mucormycosis has recently been recognized as a severe complication of COVID-19 with high fatality rates. We report a fatal case of COVID-19 associated mucormycosis (CAM) in a non-diabetic immunocompromised patient, who was first misdiagnosed and treated for COVID-19 associated aspergillosis (CAPA). The risk factors and initial clinical presentation of CAPA and CAM are similar, but CAM has a more aggressive course and CAPA and CAM are treated differently. Dedicated diagnostic workup is essential to ensure early treatment of CAM with surgical debridement and targeted antifungal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Geisler Crone
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.
| | | | - Morten Steensen
- Department of Department of Intensive Care, 2100 Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maiken Cavling Arendrup
- Unit of Mycology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen 2300, Denmark; Department of Clinical Microbiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - Marie Helleberg
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
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15
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Khan A, Mohammad A, Haq I, Nasar M, Ahmad W, Yousafi Q, Suleman M, Ahmad S, Albutti A, Khan T, Marafie SK, Alshawaf E, Ali SS, Abubaker J, Wei DQ. Structural-Dynamics and Binding Analysis of RBD from SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern (VOCs) and GRP78 Receptor Revealed Basis for Higher Infectivity. Microorganisms 2021; 9:2331. [PMID: 34835456 PMCID: PMC8619099 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9112331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) might be a receptor for SARS-CoV-2 to bind and enter the host cell. Recently reported mutations in the spike glycoprotein unique to the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of different variants might increase the binding and pathogenesis. However, it is still not known how these mutations affect the binding of RBD to GRP78. The current study provides a structural basis for the binding of GRP78 to the different variants, i.e., B.1.1.7, B.1.351, B.1.617, and P.1 (spike RBD), of SARS-CoV-2 using a biomolecular simulation approach. Docking results showed that the new variants bound stronger than the wild-type, which was further confirmed through the free energy calculation results. All-atom simulation confirmed structural stability, which was consistent with previous results by following the global stability trend. We concluded that the increased binding affinity of the B.1.1.7, B.1.351, and P.1 variants was due to a variation in the bonding network that helped the virus induce a higher infectivity and disease severity. Consequently, we reported that the aforementioned new variants use GRP78 as an alternate receptor to enhance their seriousness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Khan
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biological Statistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; (A.K.); (T.K.)
| | - Anwar Mohammad
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman 15462, Kuwait; (A.M.); (S.K.M.); (E.A.); (J.A.)
| | - Inamul Haq
- Department of Animal Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekji-Daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do, Jeonju 54896, Korea;
- Animal Biotechnology Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju-gun 55365, Korea
| | - Mohammad Nasar
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University, Islamabad-Sahiwal Campus, Punjab 57000, Pakistan; (M.N.); (Q.Y.)
| | - Waqar Ahmad
- Department of Microbiology, Abdul Wali Khan University (AWKUM), Mardan 23200, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan;
| | - Qudsia Yousafi
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University, Islamabad-Sahiwal Campus, Punjab 57000, Pakistan; (M.N.); (Q.Y.)
| | - Muhammad Suleman
- Center for Biotechnology and Microbiology, University of Swat, Swat 19200, KP, Pakistan; (M.S.); (S.S.A.)
| | - Sajjad Ahmad
- Department of Health and Biological Sciences, Abasyn University, Peshawar 25120, Pakistan;
| | - Aqel Albutti
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Taimoor Khan
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biological Statistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; (A.K.); (T.K.)
| | - Sulaiman K. Marafie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman 15462, Kuwait; (A.M.); (S.K.M.); (E.A.); (J.A.)
| | - Eman Alshawaf
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman 15462, Kuwait; (A.M.); (S.K.M.); (E.A.); (J.A.)
| | - Syed Shujait Ali
- Center for Biotechnology and Microbiology, University of Swat, Swat 19200, KP, Pakistan; (M.S.); (S.S.A.)
| | - Jehad Abubaker
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman 15462, Kuwait; (A.M.); (S.K.M.); (E.A.); (J.A.)
| | - Dong-Qing Wei
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biological Statistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; (A.K.); (T.K.)
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Shanghai-Islamabad-Belgrade Joint Innovation Center on Antibacterial Resistances, Joint Laboratory of International Cooperation in Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, Ministry of Education and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Peng Cheng Laboratory, Vanke Cloud City Phase I Building 8, Xili Street, Nashan District, Shenzhen 518055, China
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16
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Elgohary AM, Elfiky AA, Barakat K. GRP78: A possible relationship of COVID-19 and the mucormycosis; in silico perspective. Comput Biol Med 2021; 139:104956. [PMID: 34695683 PMCID: PMC8536376 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.104956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Mucormycosis is a severe fungal infection reported in many cancer survivors, diabetic and immune-suppressed patients during organ transplants. A vast spark in the reported COVID-19 cases is noticed in India during the second wave in May 2021, when Mucormycosis is declared an epidemic. Despite being a rare disease, the mortality rate associated with Mucormycosis is more than 40%. Spore coat proteins (CotH) are essential proteins in many pathogenic bacteria and fungi. CotH3 was reported as the vital protein required for fungal virulence in Mucormycosis. We previously reported the involvement of the host cell-surface receptor GRP78 in SARS-CoV-2 spike recognition. Additionally, GRP78 is known to be the virulence factor during Mucormycosis. Using state-of-the-art structural bioinformatics and molecular modeling tools, we predicted the GRP78 binding site to the Rhizopus delemar CotH3 protein. Our findings pave the way toward rationally designing small molecule inhibitors targeting the GRP78 and its counter proteins in both pathogenic viral (SARS-CoV-2 spike) and fungal (R. delemar CotH3) diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa M Elgohary
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Abdo A Elfiky
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Khaled Barakat
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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17
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Nassar A, Ibrahim IM, Amin FG, Magdy M, Elgharib AM, Azzam EB, Nasser F, Yousry K, Shamkh IM, Mahdy SM, Elfiky AA. A Review of Human Coronaviruses' Receptors: The Host-Cell Targets for the Crown Bearing Viruses. Molecules 2021; 26:6455. [PMID: 34770863 PMCID: PMC8587140 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26216455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel human coronavirus prompted considerable worry at the end of the year 2019. Now, it represents a significant global health and economic burden. The newly emerged coronavirus disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the primary reason for the COVID-19 global pandemic. According to recent global figures, COVID-19 has caused approximately 243.3 million illnesses and 4.9 million deaths. Several human cell receptors are involved in the virus identification of the host cells and entering them. Hence, understanding how the virus binds to host-cell receptors is crucial for developing antiviral treatments and vaccines. The current work aimed to determine the multiple host-cell receptors that bind with SARS-CoV-2 and other human coronaviruses for the purpose of cell entry. Extensive research is needed using neutralizing antibodies, natural chemicals, and therapeutic peptides to target those host-cell receptors in extremely susceptible individuals. More research is needed to map SARS-CoV-2 cell entry pathways in order to identify potential viral inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaya Nassar
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12511, Egypt; (I.M.I.); (F.G.A.); (M.M.); (A.M.E.)
| | - Ibrahim M. Ibrahim
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12511, Egypt; (I.M.I.); (F.G.A.); (M.M.); (A.M.E.)
| | - Fatma G. Amin
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12511, Egypt; (I.M.I.); (F.G.A.); (M.M.); (A.M.E.)
- Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21519, Egypt
| | - Merna Magdy
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12511, Egypt; (I.M.I.); (F.G.A.); (M.M.); (A.M.E.)
| | - Ahmed M. Elgharib
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12511, Egypt; (I.M.I.); (F.G.A.); (M.M.); (A.M.E.)
| | - Eman B. Azzam
- Physics Department, Medical Biophysics Division, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo 11511, Egypt;
| | - Filopateer Nasser
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12511, Egypt;
| | - Kirllos Yousry
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11511, Egypt;
| | | | - Samah M. Mahdy
- National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, Ain Elsira-Elfustat, Cairo 11511, Egypt;
| | - Abdo A. Elfiky
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12511, Egypt; (I.M.I.); (F.G.A.); (M.M.); (A.M.E.)
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18
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Abosheasha MA, El-Gowily AH, Elfiky AA. Potential antiviral properties of antiplatelet agents against SARS-CoV-2 infection: an in silico perspective. J Thromb Thrombolysis 2021; 53:273-281. [PMID: 34510337 PMCID: PMC8435103 DOI: 10.1007/s11239-021-02558-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 represents the causative agent of the current pandemic (COVID-19). The drug repurposing technique is used to search for possible drugs that can bind to SARS-CoV-2 proteins and inhibit viral replication. In this study, the FDA-approved antiplatelets are tested against the main protease and spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 using in silico methods. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation are used in the current study. The results suggest the effectiveness of vorapaxar, ticagrelor, cilostazol, cangrelor, and prasugrel in binding the main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2. At the same time, vorapaxar, ticagrelor, and cilostazol are the best binders of the spike protein. Therefore, these compounds could be successful candidates against COVID-19 that need to be tested experimentally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A Abosheasha
- Cellular Genetics Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Afnan H El-Gowily
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry Division, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.,Department of Organ and Cell Physiology, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Abdo A Elfiky
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Sciences, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.
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19
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Chandra S, Rawal R. The surge in Covid related mucormycosis. J Infect 2021; 83:381-412. [PMID: 34126158 PMCID: PMC8195687 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2021.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Somesh Chandra
- Department of Life Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.
| | - Rakesh Rawal
- Department of Life Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.
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20
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Carlos AJ, Ha DP, Yeh DW, Van Krieken R, Tseng CC, Zhang P, Gill P, Machida K, Lee AS. The chaperone GRP78 is a host auxiliary factor for SARS-CoV-2 and GRP78 depleting antibody blocks viral entry and infection. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100759. [PMID: 33965375 PMCID: PMC8102082 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of the COVID-19 global pandemic, utilizes the host receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) for viral entry. However, other host factors might also play important roles in SARS-CoV-2 infection, providing new directions for antiviral treatments. GRP78 is a stress-inducible chaperone important for entry and infectivity for many viruses. Recent molecular docking analyses revealed putative interaction between GRP78 and the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein (SARS-2-S). Here we report that GRP78 can form a complex with SARS-2-S and ACE2 on the surface and at the perinuclear region typical of the endoplasmic reticulum in VeroE6-ACE2 cells and that the substrate-binding domain of GRP78 is critical for this interaction. In vitro binding studies further confirmed that GRP78 can directly bind to the RBD of SARS-2-S and ACE2. To investigate the role of GRP78 in this complex, we knocked down GRP78 in VeroE6-ACE2 cells. Loss of GRP78 markedly reduced cell surface ACE2 expression and led to activation of markers of the unfolded protein response. Treatment of lung epithelial cells with a humanized monoclonal antibody (hMAb159) selected for its safe clinical profile in preclinical models depleted cell surface GRP78 and reduced cell surface ACE2 expression, as well as SARS-2-S-driven viral entry and SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro. Our data suggest that GRP78 is an important host auxiliary factor for SARS-CoV-2 entry and infection and a potential target to combat this novel pathogen and other viruses that utilize GRP78 in combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J Carlos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Dat P Ha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Da-Wei Yeh
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Richard Van Krieken
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Chun-Chih Tseng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Pu Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Parkash Gill
- USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Keigo Machida
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Amy S Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA.
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