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Pedrosa LDF, de Vos P, Fabi JP. Nature's soothing solution: Harnessing the potential of food-derived polysaccharides to control inflammation. Curr Res Struct Biol 2023; 6:100112. [PMID: 38046895 PMCID: PMC10692654 DOI: 10.1016/j.crstbi.2023.100112] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Reducing inflammation by diet is a major goal for prevention or lowering symptoms of a variety of diseases, such as auto-immune reactions and cancers. Natural polysaccharides are increasingly gaining attention due to their potential immunomodulating capacity. Structures of those molecules are highly important for their effects on the innate immune system, cytokine production and secretion, and enzymes in immune cells. Such polysaccharides include β-glucans, pectins, fucoidans, and fructans. To better understand the potential of these immunomodulatory molecules, it is crucial to enhance dedicated research in the area. A bibliometric analysis was performed to set a starting observation point. Major pillars of inflammation, such as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), enzymatic production of inflammatory molecules, and involvement in specific pathways such as Nuclear-factor kappa-B (NF-kB), involved in cell transcription, survival, and cytokine production, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), a regulator of genetic expression, mitosis, and cell differentiation. Therefore, the outcomes from polysaccharide applications in those scenarios are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas de Freitas Pedrosa
- Department of Food Science and Experimental Nutrition, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Paul de Vos
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - João Paulo Fabi
- Department of Food Science and Experimental Nutrition, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Food and Nutrition Research Center (NAPAN), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Food Research Center (ForC), CEPID-FAPESP (Research, Innovation and Dissemination Centers, São Paulo Research Foundation), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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2
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Yang J, Pan Y, Zeng X, Liu S, Chen Z, Cheng K. Discovery of novel aporphine alkaloid derivative as potent TLR2 antagonist reversing macrophage polarization and neutrophil infiltration against acute inflammation. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:3782-3801. [PMID: 37719381 PMCID: PMC10501872 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) mediated macrophages regulate the protective immune response to infectious microorganisms, but the aberrant activation of macrophages often leads to pathological inflammation, including tissue damage. In this study, we identified antagonists of TLR2 by screening 2100 natural products and subsequently identified Taspine, an aporphine alkaloid, as an excellent candidate. Furthermore, analysis of the 10 steps chemical synthesis route and structural optimization yielded the Taspine derivative SMU-Y6, which has higher activity, better solubility, and improved drug-feasible property. Mechanistic studies and seq-RNA analysis revealed that SMU-Y6 inhibited TLR2 over other TLRs, hindered the formation of TLR2/MyD88 complex, and blocked the downstream NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathway, thus suppressing the release of inflammatory cytokines. SMU-Y6 could stabilize TLR2 and bind to TLR2 protein with a Kd of 0.18 μmol/L. Additionally, SMU-Y6 could efficiently reverse the M1 phenotype macrophage polarization, reduce the production of cytokines as well as infiltration of neutrophiles and alleviate the local inflammation in mice with acute paw edema and colitis. Collectively, we reported the first aporphine alkaloid derivative that selectively inhibits TLR2 with high binding affinity and superior drug-feasible property, thus providing an urgently-needed molecular probe and potential drug candidate for inflammatory and autoimmune disease therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening and NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yue Pan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening and NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xiaoshan Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening and NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Shuwen Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening and NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Zhipeng Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening and NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Kui Cheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening and NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Drug Metabolism, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Department of Musculoskeletal Oncology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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Wang J, Zhang J, Wang J, Hu X, Ouyang L, Wang Y. Small-Molecule Modulators Targeting Toll-like Receptors for Potential Anticancer Therapeutics. J Med Chem 2023; 66:6437-6462. [PMID: 37163340 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are key components of the innate immune system and serve as a crucial link between innate and acquired immunity. In addition to immune function, TLRs are involved in other important pathological processes, including tumorigenesis. TLRs have dual regulatory effects on tumor immunity by activating nuclear factor κ-B signaling pathways, which induce tumor immune evasion or enhance the antitumor immune response. Therefore, TLRs have become a popular target for cancer prevention and treatment, and TLR agonists and antagonists offer considerable potential for drug development. The TLR7 agonist imiquimod (1) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a treatment for malignant skin cancer. Herein, the structure, signaling pathways, and function of the TLR family are summarized, and the structure-activity relationships associated with TLR selective and multitarget modulators and their potential application in tumor therapy are systematically discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Wang
- Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, Sichuan, China
| | - Jifa Zhang
- Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiaxing Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Xinyue Hu
- Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, Sichuan, China
| | - Liang Ouyang
- Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuxi Wang
- Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
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Tang X, Xu Q, Yang S, Huang X, Wang L, Huang F, Luo J, Zhou X, Wu A, Mei Q, Zhao C, Wu J. Toll-like Receptors and Thrombopoiesis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021010. [PMID: 36674552 PMCID: PMC9864288 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Platelets are the second most abundant blood component after red blood cells and can participate in a variety of physiological and pathological functions. Beyond its traditional role in hemostasis and thrombosis, it also plays an indispensable role in inflammatory diseases. However, thrombocytopenia is a common hematologic problem in the clinic, and it presents a proportional relationship with the fatality of many diseases. Therefore, the prevention and treatment of thrombocytopenia is of great importance. The expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) is one of the most relevant characteristics of thrombopoiesis and the platelet inflammatory function. We know that the TLR family is found on the surface or inside almost all cells, where they perform many immune functions. Of those, TLR2 and TLR4 are the main stress-inducing members and play an integral role in inflammatory diseases and platelet production and function. Therefore, the aim of this review is to present and discuss the relationship between platelets, inflammation and the TLR family and extend recent research on the influence of the TLR2 and TLR4 pathways and the regulation of platelet production and function. Reviewing the interaction between TLRs and platelets in inflammation may be a research direction or program for the treatment of thrombocytopenia-related and inflammatory-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqin Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Shuo Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Xinwu Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Long Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, the Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education of China, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Feihong Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, the Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education of China, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Jiesi Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, the Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education of China, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Xiaogang Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, the Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education of China, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Anguo Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, the Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education of China, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Qibing Mei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, the Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education of China, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Chunling Zhao
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Correspondence: (C.Z.); (J.W.); Tel.: +86-186-8307-3667 (C.Z.); +86-139-8241-6641 (J.W.)
| | - Jianming Wu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, the Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education of China, Luzhou 646000, China
- Correspondence: (C.Z.); (J.W.); Tel.: +86-186-8307-3667 (C.Z.); +86-139-8241-6641 (J.W.)
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Kobia FM, Maiti K, Obimbo MM, Smith R, Gitaka J. Potential pharmacologic interventions targeting TLR signaling in placental malaria. Trends Parasitol 2022; 38:513-524. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2022.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Leichtle A, Kurabi A, Leffers D, Därr M, Draf CS, Ryan AF, Bruchhage KL. Immunomodulation as a Protective Strategy in Chronic Otitis Media. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:826192. [PMID: 35433505 PMCID: PMC9005906 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.826192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Major features of the pathogenesis in otitis media, the most common disease in childhood, include hyperplasia of the middle ear mucosa and infiltration by leukocytes, both of which typically resolve upon bacterial clearance via apoptosis. Activation of innate immune receptors during the inflammatory process leads to the activation of intracellular transcription factors (such as NF-κB, AP-1), which regulate both the inflammatory response and tissue growth. We investigated these leading signaling pathways in otitis media using mouse models, human samples, and human middle ear epithelial cell (HMEEC) lines for therapeutic immunomodulation. Methods A stable otitis media model in wild-type mice and immunodeficient KO-mice, as well as human tissue samples from chronic otitis media, skin from the external auditory canal and middle ear mucosa removed from patients undergoing ear surgery, were studied. Gene and protein expression of innate immune signaling molecules were evaluated using microarray, qPCR and IHC. In situ apoptosis detection determined the apoptotic rate. The influence of bacterial infection on immunomodulating molecules (TNFα, MDP, Tri-DAP, SB203580, Cycloheximide) in HMEEC was evaluated. HMEEC cells were examined after bacterial stimulation/inhibition for gene expression and cellular growth. Results Persistent mucosal hyperplasia of the middle ear mucosa in chronic otitis media resulted from gene and protein expression of inflammatory and apoptotic genes, including NODs, TNFα, Casp3 and cleaved Casp3. In clinical chronic middle ear samples, these molecules were modulated after a specific stimulation. They also induced a hyposensitive response after bacterial/NOD-/TLR-pathway double stimulation of HMEEC cells in vitro. Hence, they might be suitable targets for immunological therapeutic approaches. Conclusion Uncontrolled middle ear mucosal hyperplasia is triggered by TLRs/NLRs immunoreceptor activation of downstream inflammatory and apoptotic molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Leichtle
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- *Correspondence: Anke Leichtle,
| | - Arwa Kurabi
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - David Leffers
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Markus Därr
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Clara Sophia Draf
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Allen Frederic Ryan
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Research Section, Veterans Affairs (VA) San Diego Healthcare System, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Karl-Ludwig Bruchhage
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
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Dolšak A, Šribar D, Scheffler A, Grabowski M, Švajger U, Gobec S, Holze J, Weindl G, Wolber G, Sova M. Further hit optimization of 6-(trifluoromethyl)pyrimidin-2-amine based TLR8 modulators: Synthesis, biological evaluation and structure-activity relationships. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 225:113809. [PMID: 34488023 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR8) is an endosomal TLR that has an important role in the innate human immune system, which is involved in numerous pathological conditions. Excessive activation of TLR8 can lead to inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, which highlights the need for development of TLR8 modulators. However, only a few small-molecule modulators that selectively target TLR8 have been developed. Here, we report the synthesis and systematic investigation of the structure-activity relationships of a series of novel TLR8 negative modulators based on previously reported 6-(trifluoromethyl)pyrimidin-2-amine derivatives. Four compounds showed low-micromolar concentration-dependent inhibition of TLR8-mediated signaling in HEK293 cells. These data confirm that the 6-trifluoromethyl group and two other substituents on positions 2 and 4 are important structural elements of pyrimidine-based TLR8 modulators. Substitution of the main scaffold at position 2 with a methylsulfonyl group or para hydroxy/hydroxymethyl substituted benzylamine is essential for potent negative modulation of TLR8. Our best-in-class TLR8-selective modulator 53 with IC50 value of 6.2 μM represents a promising small-molecule chemical probe for further optimization to a lead compound with potent immunomodulatory properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Dolšak
- Chair of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva c. 7, SI-1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Dora Šribar
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Scheffler
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, Gerhard-Domagk-Str. 3, 53121, Bonn, Germany
| | - Maria Grabowski
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Urban Švajger
- Blood Transfusion Centre of Slovenia, Šlajmerjeva 6, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Stanislav Gobec
- Chair of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva c. 7, SI-1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Janine Holze
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, Gerhard-Domagk-Str. 3, 53121, Bonn, Germany
| | - Günther Weindl
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, Gerhard-Domagk-Str. 3, 53121, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Gerhard Wolber
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Matej Sova
- Chair of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva c. 7, SI-1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Miller S, Blanco MJ. Small molecule therapeutics for neuroinflammation-mediated neurodegenerative disorders. RSC Med Chem 2021; 12:871-886. [PMID: 34223157 PMCID: PMC8221257 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00036e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronically activated microglia and the resulting cascade of neuroinflammatory mechanisms have been postulated to play a critical role in neurodegenerative disorders. Microglia are the main component of the brain's innate immune system and become activated by infection, injury, misfolded proteins or a multitude of other stimuli. Activated microglia release pro-inflammatory and cytotoxic factors that can damage neurons and transform astrocytes to become toxic to neurons as well. Therapeutic approaches aiming to modulate microglia activation may be beneficial to mitigate the progression of inflammatory-mediated neurodegenerative diseases. In this literature review, we provide an overview of recent progress on key microglia targets and discovery of small molecule compounds advancing in clinical trials to minimize neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke Miller
- Sage Therapeutics, Inc. 215 First Street Cambridge Massachusetts 02142 USA
| | - Maria-Jesus Blanco
- Sage Therapeutics, Inc. 215 First Street Cambridge Massachusetts 02142 USA
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Yang J, Hu F, Guo C, Liang Y, Song H, Cheng K. Discovery of isoliquiritigenin analogues that reverse acute hepatitis by inhibiting macrophage polarization. Bioorg Chem 2021; 114:105043. [PMID: 34120019 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.105043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Screening a natural product library of 850 compounds yield isoliquiritigenin as an effective anti-inflammatory agent by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory NO induced by Pam3CSK4, while its activity accompanied by toxicity. Further studies obtained the optimized isoliquiritigenin derivative SMU-B14, which can inhibit Pam3CSK4 triggered toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) signaling with low toxicity and high potency. Preliminary mechanism studies indicated that SMU-B14 worked through TLR2/MyD88, phosphorylation of IKKα/β, leading to the reduce degradation of NF-κB related IKBα and p65 complex, then inhibited the production of inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β both in human and murine cell lines. Subsequent polarization experiments showed SMU-B14 significant reversed the polarization of M1 phenotype primary macrophage activated by Pam3CSK4in vitro, and reduced the infiltration of neutrophil and polarization of M1-type macrophage, decreased serum alanine transaminase (ALT), as a result protected liver from being injured in vivo. In summary, we obtained an optimized lead compound SMU-B14 and found it functionally blocked TLR2/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway to down-regulate the production of inflammatory cytokines resulted significant liver protection property.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Emerging Virus Prevention and Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Fanjie Hu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Emerging Virus Prevention and Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chengjun Guo
- School of Applied Mathematics, Guangdong University of Technology, 510006, China
| | - Yuqing Liang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Emerging Virus Prevention and Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Haiying Song
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Emerging Virus Prevention and Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Kui Cheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Drug Research for Emerging Virus Prevention and Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
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10
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Discovery of a novel potent cytochrome P450 CYP4Z1 inhibitor. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 215:113255. [PMID: 33611185 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Human cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP4Z1 represents a promising target for the treatment of a multitude of malignancies including breast cancer. The most active known non-covalent inhibitor (1-benzylimidazole) only shows low micromolar affinity to CYP4Z1. We report a new, highly active inhibitor for CYP4Z1 showing confirmed binding in an enzymatic assay and an IC50 value of 63 ± 19 nM in stably transfected MCF-7 cells overexpressing CYP4Z1. The new inhibitor was identified by a systematically developed virtual screening protocol. Binding was rationalized using a carefully elaborated 3D pharmacophore hypothesis and thoroughly characterized using extensive molecular dynamics simulations and dynamic 3D pharmacophore (dynophore) analyses. This novel inhibitor represents a valuable pharmacological tool to accelerate characterization of the still understudied CYP4Z1 and might pave the way for a new treatment strategy in CYP4Z1-associated malignancies. The presented in silico model for predicting CYP4Z1 interaction provides novel mechanistic insights and revealed that the drug ozagrel interacts with CYP4Z1.
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11
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Bermudez M, Grabowski M, Murgueitio MS, Tiemann M, Varga P, Rudolf T, Wolber G, Weindl G, Rademann J. Biological Characterization, Mechanistic Investigation and Structure-Activity Relationships of Chemically Stable TLR2 Antagonists. ChemMedChem 2020; 15:1364-1371. [PMID: 32333508 PMCID: PMC7496872 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) build the first barrier in the innate immune response and therefore represent promising targets for the modulation of inflammatory processes. Recently, the pyrogallol-containing TLR2 antagonists CU-CPT22 and MMG-11 were reported; however, their 1,2,3-triphenol motif renders them highly susceptible to oxidation and excludes them from use in extended experiments under aerobic conditions. Therefore, we have developed a set of novel TLR2 antagonists (1-9) based on the systematic variation of substructures, linker elements, and the hydrogen-bonding pattern of the pyrogallol precursors by using chemically robust building blocks. The novel series of chemically stable and synthetically accessible TLR2 antagonists (1-9) was pharmacologically characterized, and the potential binding modes of the active compounds were evaluated structurally. Our results provide new insights into structure-activity relationships and allow rationalization of structural binding characteristics. Moreover, they support the hypothesis that this class of TLR ligands bind solely to TLR2 and do not directly interact with TLR1 or TLR6 of the functional heterodimer. The most active compound from this series (6), is chemically stable, nontoxic, TLR2-selective, and shows a similar activity with regard to the pyrogallol starting points, thus indicating the variability of the hydrogen bonding pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel Bermudez
- Institute of Pharmacy (Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry)Freie Universität BerlinKönigin-Luise-Strasse 2+414195BerlinGermany
| | - Maria Grabowski
- Institute of Pharmacy (Pharmacology and Toxicology)Freie Universität BerlinKönigin-Luise-Strasse 2+414195BerlinGermany
| | - Manuela S. Murgueitio
- Institute of Pharmacy (Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry)Freie Universität BerlinKönigin-Luise-Strasse 2+414195BerlinGermany
| | - Markus Tiemann
- Institute of Pharmacy (Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry)Freie Universität BerlinKönigin-Luise-Strasse 2+414195BerlinGermany
| | - Péter Varga
- Institute of Pharmacy (Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry)Freie Universität BerlinKönigin-Luise-Strasse 2+414195BerlinGermany
| | - Thomas Rudolf
- Institute of Pharmacy (Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry)Freie Universität BerlinKönigin-Luise-Strasse 2+414195BerlinGermany
| | - Gerhard Wolber
- Institute of Pharmacy (Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry)Freie Universität BerlinKönigin-Luise-Strasse 2+414195BerlinGermany
| | - Günther Weindl
- Institute of Pharmacy (Pharmacology and Toxicology)Freie Universität BerlinKönigin-Luise-Strasse 2+414195BerlinGermany
- Section Pharmacology and ToxicologyPharmaceutical InstituteUniversität BonnGerhard-Domagk-Strasse 353121BonnGermany
| | - Jörg Rademann
- Institute of Pharmacy (Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry)Freie Universität BerlinKönigin-Luise-Strasse 2+414195BerlinGermany
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Grabowski M, Bermudez M, Rudolf T, Šribar D, Varga P, Murgueitio MS, Wolber G, Rademann J, Weindl G. Identification and validation of a novel dual small-molecule TLR2/8 antagonist. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 177:113957. [PMID: 32268138 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.113957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and TLR8 are involved in the recognition of bacterial and viral components and are linked not only to protective antimicrobial immunity but also to inflammatory diseases. Recently, increasing attention has been paid to the receptor crosstalk between TLR2 and TLR8 to fine-tune innate immune responses. In this study, we report a novel dual TLR2/TLR8 antagonist, compound 24 that was developed by a modeling-guided synthesis approach. The modulator was optimized from the previously reported 1,3-benzothiazole derivative, compound 8. Compound 24 was pharmacologically characterized for the ability to inhibit TLR2- and TLR8-mediated responses in TLR-overexpressing reporter cells and THP-1 macrophages. The modulator showed high efficacy with IC50 values in the low micromolar range for both TLRs, selectivity towards other TLRs and low cytotoxicity. At TLR2, a slight predominance for the TLR2/1 heterodimer was found in reporter cells selectively expressing TLR2/1 or TLR2/6 heterodimers. Concentration ratio analysis in the presence of Pam3CSK4 or Pam2CSK4 indicated non-competitive antagonist behavior at hTLR2. In computational docking studies, a plausible alternative binding mode of compound 24 was predicted for both TLR2 and TLR8. Our results provide evidence that it is feasible to simultaneously and selectively target endosomal- and surface-located TLRs. We identified a small-molecule dual TLR2/8 antagonist that may serve as a valuable pharmacological tool to decipher the role of TLR2/8 co-signaling in inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Grabowski
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Marcel Bermudez
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Rudolf
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Dora Šribar
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Péter Varga
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Manuela S Murgueitio
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerhard Wolber
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jörg Rademann
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Günther Weindl
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, 14195 Berlin, Germany; Section Pharmacology and Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, Gerhard-Domagk-Str. 3, 53121 Bonn, Germany.
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Schaller D, Šribar D, Noonan T, Deng L, Nguyen TN, Pach S, Machalz D, Bermudez M, Wolber G. Next generation 3D pharmacophore modeling. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-COMPUTATIONAL MOLECULAR SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/wcms.1468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David Schaller
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Freie Universität Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Dora Šribar
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Freie Universität Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Theresa Noonan
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Freie Universität Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Lihua Deng
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Freie Universität Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Trung Ngoc Nguyen
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Freie Universität Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Szymon Pach
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Freie Universität Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - David Machalz
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Freie Universität Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Marcel Bermudez
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Freie Universität Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Gerhard Wolber
- Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry Freie Universität Berlin Berlin Germany
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The novel small-molecule antagonist MMG-11 preferentially inhibits TLR2/1 signaling. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 171:113687. [PMID: 31678495 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.113687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) forms heterodimers with either TLR1 or TLR6 to induce protective early inflammatory responses to pathogen- and damage-associated molecular patterns. However, excessive activation is associated with inflammatory and metabolic diseases. Several TLR2 antagonists have been described but pharmacological characterization is still at an early stage. Previously, we identified the potent and selective TLR2 antagonist MMG-11 by computational modelling and experimental validation. Here, we characterized the TLR2 antagonists MMG-11 and CU-CPT22 as well as the TIR-domain binding TLR2 antagonist C29 in TLR-overexpressing promoter cells as well as human and mouse macrophages. In line with our recent studies, MMG-11 abrogated pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion and NF-κB activation induced by different bacterial TLR2 agonists. MMG-11 preferentially inhibited TLR2/1 signaling in promoter cells stably expressing TLR2 heterodimers and mouse macrophages. Furthermore, the TLR2 antagonist blocked ligand-induced interaction of TLR2 with MyD88 and reduced MAP kinase and NF-κB activation. MMG-11 and CU-CPT22 but not C29 displaced Pam3CSK4 in an indirect binding assay confirming the competitive mode of action of MMG-11 and CU-CPT22. Isobologram analysis revealed additive and synergistic effects when the non-competitive antagonist C29 was combined with the competitive antagonist MMG-11 or CU-CPT22, respectively. In conclusion, we provide evidence that MMG-11 acts as a competitive antagonist with a predominance for the TLR2/1 heterodimer in human and mouse cells. Our results also indicate that MMG-11 is a model compound for studying TLR2 signaling.
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Šribar D, Grabowski M, Murgueitio MS, Bermudez M, Weindl G, Wolber G. Identification and characterization of a novel chemotype for human TLR8 inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 179:744-752. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.06.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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16
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Pfalzgraff A, Correa W, Heinbockel L, Schromm AB, Lübow C, Gisch N, Martinez-de-Tejada G, Brandenburg K, Weindl G. LPS-neutralizing peptides reduce outer membrane vesicle-induced inflammatory responses. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2019; 1864:1503-1513. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2019.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Slater O, Kontoyianni M. The compromise of virtual screening and its impact on drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2019; 14:619-637. [PMID: 31025886 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2019.1604677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Docking and structure-based virtual screening (VS) have been standard approaches in structure-based design for over two decades. However, our understanding of the limitations, potential, and strength of these techniques has enhanced, raising expectations. Areas covered: Based on a survey of reports in the past five years, we assess whether VS: (1) predicts binding poses in agreement with crystallographic data (when available); (2) is a superior screening tool, as often claimed; (3) is successful in identifying chemical scaffolds that can be starting points for subsequent lead optimization cycles. Data shows that knowledge of the target and its chemotypes in postprocessing lead to viable hits in early drug discovery endeavors. Expert opinion: VS is capable of accurate placements in the pocket for the most part, but does not consistently score screening collections accurately. What matters is capitalization on available resources to get closer to a viable lead or optimizable series. Integration of approaches, subjective hit selection guided by knowledge of the receptor or endogenous ligand, libraries driven by experimental guides, validation studies to identify the best docking/scoring that reproduces experimental findings, constraints regarding receptor-ligand interactions, thoroughly designed methodologies, and predefined cutoff scoring criteria strengthen VS's position in pharmaceutical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Slater
- a Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Southern Illinois University Edwardsville , Edwardsville , IL , USA
| | - Maria Kontoyianni
- a Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Southern Illinois University Edwardsville , Edwardsville , IL , USA
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