1
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Wang K, Nguyen T, Gao Y, Guo R, Fan C, Liao H, Li J, Chai J, Xu X, Gong Y, Chen X. Androcin 18-1, a novel scorpion-venom peptide, shows a potent antitumor activity against human U87 cells via inducing mitochondrial dysfunction. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 170:104137. [PMID: 38759703 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2024.104137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Scorpion venom is a potent natural source for antitumor drug development due to the multiple action modes of anticancer components. Although the sequence of Androcin 18-1 has been identified from the transcriptome profile of the scorpion venom Androctonus bicolor, its bioactivity remains unclear. In this study, we described the antitumor mechanism whereby Androcin 18-1 inhibits the proliferation and induces apoptosis by inducing cell membrane disruption, ROS accumulation, and mitochondrial dysfunction in human U87 glioblastoma cells. Moreover, Androcin 18-1 could suppress cell migration via the mechanisms associated with cytoskeleton disorganization and MMPs/TIMPs expression regulation. The discovery of this work highlights the potential application of Androcin 18-1 in drug development for glioblastoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tienthanh Nguyen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yihan Gao
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruiyin Guo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chaofan Fan
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hang Liao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiali Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinwei Chai
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueqing Xu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 510515, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yuxin Gong
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 510280, Guangzhou, China.
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2
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Xia Z, He D, Wu Y, Kwok HF, Cao Z. Scorpion venom peptides: Molecular diversity, structural characteristics, and therapeutic use from channelopathies to viral infections and cancers. Pharmacol Res 2023; 197:106978. [PMID: 37923027 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Animal venom is an important evolutionary innovation in nature. As one of the most representative animal venoms, scorpion venom contains an extremely diverse set of bioactive peptides. Scorpion venom peptides not only are 'poisons' that immobilize, paralyze, kill, or dissolve preys but also become important candidates for drug development and design. Here, the review focuses on the molecular diversity of scorpion venom peptides, their typical structural characteristics, and their multiple therapeutic or pharmaceutical applications in channelopathies, viral infections and cancers. Especially, the group of scorpion toxin TRPTx targeting transient receptor potential (TRP) channels is systematically summarized and worthy of attention because TRP channels play a crucial role in the regulation of homeostasis and the occurrence of diseases in human. We also further establish the potential relationship between the molecular characteristics and functional applications of scorpion venom peptides to provide a research basis for modern drug development and clinical utilization of scorpion venom resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Xia
- School of Biological and Food Processing Engineering, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, China
| | - Dangui He
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macao; Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macao
| | - Yingliang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hang Fai Kwok
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macao; Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macao; MoE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macao.
| | - Zhijian Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Bio-drug Research Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
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3
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Ergen PH, Shorter S, Ntziachristos V, Ovsepian SV. Neurotoxin-Derived Optical Probes for Biological and Medical Imaging. Mol Imaging Biol 2023; 25:799-814. [PMID: 37468801 PMCID: PMC10598172 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-023-01838-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
The superb specificity and potency of biological toxins targeting various ion channels and receptors are of major interest for the delivery of therapeutics to distinct cell types and subcellular compartments. Fused with reporter proteins or labelled with fluorophores and nanocomposites, animal toxins and their detoxified variants also offer expanding opportunities for visualisation of a range of molecular processes and functions in preclinical models, as well as clinical studies. This article presents state-of-the-art optical probes derived from neurotoxins targeting ion channels, with discussions of their applications in basic and translational biomedical research. It describes the design and production of probes and reviews their applications with advantages and limitations, with prospects for future improvements. Given the advances in imaging tools and expanding research areas benefiting from the use of optical probes, described here resources should assist the discovery process and facilitate high-precision interrogation and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinar Helin Ergen
- Faculty of Engineering and Science, University of Greenwich London, Chatham Maritime, Kent, ME4 4TB, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Shorter
- Faculty of Engineering and Science, University of Greenwich London, Chatham Maritime, Kent, ME4 4TB, United Kingdom
| | - Vasilis Ntziachristos
- Chair of Biological Imaging at the Central Institute for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Zentrum München (GmbH), 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
- Munich Institute of Robotics and Machine Intelligence (MIRMI), Technical University of Munich, 80992, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Saak Victor Ovsepian
- Faculty of Engineering and Science, University of Greenwich London, Chatham Maritime, Kent, ME4 4TB, United Kingdom.
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4
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Boltman T, Meyer M, Ekpo O. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches for Glioblastoma and Neuroblastoma Cancers Using Chlorotoxin Nanoparticles. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3388. [PMID: 37444498 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GB) and high-risk neuroblastoma (NB) are known to have poor therapeutic outcomes. As for most cancers, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the current mainstay treatments for GB and NB. However, the known limitations of systemic toxicity, drug resistance, poor targeted delivery, and inability to access the blood-brain barrier (BBB), make these treatments less satisfactory. Other treatment options have been investigated in many studies in the literature, especially nutraceutical and naturopathic products, most of which have also been reported to be poorly effective against these cancer types. This necessitates the development of treatment strategies with the potential to cross the BBB and specifically target cancer cells. Compounds that target the endopeptidase, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), have been reported to offer therapeutic insights for GB and NB since MMP-2 is known to be over-expressed in these cancers and plays significant roles in such physiological processes as angiogenesis, metastasis, and cellular invasion. Chlorotoxin (CTX) is a promising 36-amino acid peptide isolated from the venom of the deathstalker scorpion, Leiurus quinquestriatus, demonstrating high selectivity and binding affinity to a broad-spectrum of cancers, especially GB and NB through specific molecular targets, including MMP-2. The favorable characteristics of nanoparticles (NPs) such as their small sizes, large surface area for active targeting, BBB permeability, etc. make CTX-functionalized NPs (CTX-NPs) promising diagnostic and therapeutic applications for addressing the many challenges associated with these cancers. CTX-NPs may function by improving diffusion through the BBB, enabling increased localization of chemotherapeutic and genotherapeutic drugs to diseased cells specifically, enhancing imaging modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), optical imaging techniques, image-guided surgery, as well as improving the sensitization of radio-resistant cells to radiotherapy treatment. This review discusses the characteristics of GB and NB cancers, related treatment challenges as well as the potential of CTX and its functionalized NP formulations as targeting systems for diagnostic, therapeutic, and theranostic purposes. It also provides insights into the potential mechanisms through which CTX crosses the BBB to bind cancer cells and provides suggestions for the development and application of novel CTX-based formulations for the diagnosis and treatment of GB and NB in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taahirah Boltman
- Department of Medical Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Robert Sobukwe Road, Bellville, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Mervin Meyer
- Department of Science and Innovation/Mintek Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Biolabels Node, Department of Biotechnology, University of the Western Cape, Robert Sobukwe Road, Bellville, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Okobi Ekpo
- Department of Anatomy and Cellular Biology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 127788, United Arab Emirates
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5
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Mahnam K, Lotfi M, Shapoorabadi FA. Examining the interactions scorpion venom peptides (HP1090, Meucin-13, and Meucin-18) with the receptor binding domain of the coronavirus spike protein to design a mutated therapeutic peptide. J Mol Graph Model 2021; 107:107952. [PMID: 34119951 PMCID: PMC8174010 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2021.107952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2) interacts with the ACE2 receptor in human cells and starts the infection of COVID-19 disease. Given the importance of spike protein's interaction with ACE2 receptor, we selected some antiviral peptides of venom scorpion such as HP1090, meucin-13, and meucin-18 and performed docking and molecular docking analysis of them with the RBD domain of spike protein. The results showed that meucin-18 (FFGHLFKLATKIIPSLFQ) had better interaction with the RBD domain of spike protein than other peptides. We also designed some mutations in meucin-18 and investigated their interactions with the RBD domain. The results revealed that the A9T mutation had more effective interaction with the RBD domain than the meucin-18 and was able to inhibit spike protein's interaction with ACE2 receptor. Hence, peptide “FFGHLFKLTTKIIPSLFQ” can be considered as the potential drug for the treatment of COVID-19 disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Mahnam
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran; Nanotechnology Research Center, Shahrekord University, 8818634141, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - Maryam Lotfi
- Biotechnology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Payame Noor University, Esfahan, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Ahmadi Shapoorabadi
- Biotechnology Department, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, Shahid Ashrafi Esfahani University, Esfahan, Iran
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6
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Giribaldi J, Smith JJ, Schroeder CI. Recent developments in animal venom peptide nanotherapeutics with improved selectivity for cancer cells. Biotechnol Adv 2021; 50:107769. [PMID: 33989705 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2021.107769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Animal venoms are a rich source of bioactive peptides that efficiently modulate key receptors and ion channels involved in cellular excitability to rapidly neutralize their prey or predators. As such, they have been a wellspring of highly useful pharmacological tools for decades. Besides targeting ion channels, some venom peptides exhibit strong cytotoxic activity and preferentially affect cancer over healthy cells. This is unlikely to be driven by an evolutionary impetus, and differences in tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment are probably behind the serendipitous selectivity shown by some venom peptides. However, strategies such as bioconjugation and nanotechnologies are showing potential to improve their selectivity and potency, thereby paving the way to efficiently harness new anticancer mechanisms offered by venom peptides. This review aims to highlight advances in nano- and chemotherapeutic tools and prospective anti-cancer drug leads derived from animal venom peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Giribaldi
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Jennifer J Smith
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Christina I Schroeder
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
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7
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Scorpion Toxins and Ion Channels: Potential Applications in Cancer Therapy. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12050326. [PMID: 32429050 PMCID: PMC7290751 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12050326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis, a genetically directed process of cell death, has been studied for many years, and the biochemical mechanisms that surround it are well known and described. There are at least three pathways by which apoptosis occurs, and each pathway depends on extra or intracellular processes for activation. Apoptosis is a vital process, but disturbances in proliferation and cell death rates can lead to the development of diseases like cancer. Several compounds, isolated from scorpion venoms, exhibit inhibitory effects on different cancer cells. Indeed, some of these compounds can differentiate between healthy and cancer cells within the same tissue. During the carcinogenic process, morphological, biochemical, and biological changes occur that enable these compounds to modulate cancer but not healthy cells. This review highlights cancer cell features that enable modulation by scorpion neurotoxins. The properties of the isolated scorpion neurotoxins in cancer cells and the potential uses of these compounds as alternative treatments for cancer are discussed.
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8
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Zou X, Wang Y, Yu Y, He J, Zhao F, Xi C, Zhang C, Cao Z. BmK NSP, a new sodium channel activator from Buthus martensii Karsch, promotes neurite outgrowth in primary cultured spinal cord neurons. Toxicon 2020; 182:13-20. [PMID: 32353571 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.04.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Scorpion venom is a rich source of bioactive compounds that affect neuronal excitability by modulating the activities of various channels/receptors. In the current study, guided by a Ca2+ mobilization assay, we purified a new neuroactive peptide designated as BmK NSP (Buthus martensii Karsch neurite-stimulating peptide, MW: 7064.30 Da). The primary structure of BmK NSP was determined by Edman degradation. BmK NSP concentration-dependently elevated intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) with an EC50 value of 4.18 μM in primary cultured spinal cord neurons (SCNs). Depletion of extracellular Ca2+ abolished BmK NSP-triggered Ca2+ response. Moreover, we demonstrated that BmK NSP-induced Ca2+ response was partially suppressed by the inhibitors of L-type Ca2+ channels, Na+-Ca2+ exchangers and NMDA receptors and was abolished by voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) blocker, tetrodotoxin. Whole-cell patch clamp recording demonstrated that BmK NSP delayed VGSC inactivation (EC50 = 1.10 μM) in SCNs. BmK NSP enhanced neurite outgrowth in a non-monotonic manner that peaked at ~30 nM in SCNs. BmK NSP-promoted neurite outgrowth was suppressed by the inhibitors of L-type Ca2+ channels, NMDA receptors, and VGSCs. Considered together, these data demonstrate that BmK NSP is a new α-scorpion toxin that enhances neurite outgrowth through main routes of Ca2+ influx. Modulation of VGSC activity by α-scorpion toxin might represent a novel strategy to regulate the neurogenesis in SCNs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohan Zou
- Department of TCM Pharmacology, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Yujing Wang
- Department of TCM Pharmacology, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Yiyi Yu
- Department of TCM Pharmacology, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Jing He
- Department of TCM Pharmacology, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Fang Zhao
- Department of TCM Pharmacology, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China.
| | - Chuchu Xi
- Department of TCM Pharmacology, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Jiangsu Provincial Supervision & Inspection Center of Green & Degradable Materials, Nanjing Institute of Product Quality Inspection, No. 3 E. Jialingjiang Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210019, China
| | - Zhengyu Cao
- Department of TCM Pharmacology, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211198, China.
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9
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Yang F, Wang D, Tong Y, Qin C, Yang L, Yu F, Huang X, Liu S, Cao Z, Guo L, Li W, Wu Y, Zhao X. Thermostable potassium channel-inhibiting neurotoxins in processed scorpion medicinal material revealed by proteomic analysis: Implications of its pharmaceutical basis in traditional Chinese medicine. J Proteomics 2019; 206:103435. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2019.103435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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10
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Anti-tumoral effect of scorpion peptides: Emerging new cellular targets and signaling pathways. Cell Calcium 2019; 80:160-174. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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11
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Luo X, Zhu W, Ding L, Ye X, Gao H, Tai X, Wu Z, Qian Y, Ruan X, Li J, Li S, Chen Z. Bldesin, the first functionally characterized pathogenic fungus defensin with Kv1.3 channel and chymotrypsin inhibitory activities. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2018; 33:e22244. [PMID: 30381903 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Fungus defensin is a kind of important natural peptide resource, such as plectasin from the soil fungus Pseudoplectania nigrella with potential application in the antimicrobial peptide lead drug discovery. Here, a fungus defensin named Bldesin with Kv1.3 channel and serine protease inhibitory activities was first explored. By GST-Bldesin fusion expression and enterokinase cleaving strategy, recombinant Bldesin was obtained successfully. Antimicrobial assays showed that Bldesin had potent activity against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus, but had no effect on Gram-negative Escherichia coli. Electrophysiological experiments showed that Bldesin had Kv1.3 channel inhibitory activity. Serine protease inhibitory associated experiments showed that Bldesin had unique chymotrypsin protease inhibitory, elastase protease inhibitory, and serine protease-associated coagulation inhibitory activities. To the best of our knowledge, Bldesin is the first functionally characterized pathogenic fungus defensin with Kv1.3 channel and chymotrypsin inhibitory activities and highlighted novel pharmacological effects of fungus-derived defensin peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Luo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Wen Zhu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Li Ding
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, Dongfeng hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Xiangdong Ye
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Huanhuan Gao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Xuejiao Tai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Zheng Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Yi Qian
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Xuzhi Ruan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Shan Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
| | - Zongyun Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, China
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12
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Wu S, Ma K, Qiao WL, Zhao LZ, Liu CC, Guo LL, Xing Y, Zhu ML, Zhao JH. Anti-metastatic effect of 131I-labeled Buthus martensii Karsch chlorotoxin in gliomas. Int J Mol Med 2018; 42:3386-3394. [PMID: 30272348 PMCID: PMC6202110 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2018.3905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the underlying molecular mechanism by which Buthus martensii Karsch chlorotoxin (BmK CT) inhibits the invasion and metastasis of glioma cells and the possibility of 131I‑labeled BmK CT (131I‑BmK CT) as a novel targeted agent for the treatment of glioma. The impact of BmK CT with and without 131I radiolabeling on the invasion and metastasis of glioma cells in vitro was studied. Cell viability was assessed using Cell Counting Kit‑8 and plate colony formation assays in order to confirm the cytotoxicity of BmK CT and 131I‑BmK CT at different concentrations. Transwell invasion and wound‑healing assays were conducted in order to investigate the inhibitory effects BmK CT and 131I‑BmK CT on cell migration and invasion. Furthermore, western blotting, ELISA immunofluorescence and a gelatin zymography assay were performed to evaluate changes in the protein expression levels of glioma cells following treatment with BmK CT or 131I‑BmK CT. The results indicated that BmK CT inhibits the invasion and metastasis of glioma cells via regulation of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‑2 expression and that 131I‑BmK CT has the potential to be a novel targeted therapeutic drug for glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Wu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Ke Ma
- Shandong Co‑Innovation Center of Classic TCM formula, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Li Qiao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Ling-Zhou Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Chang-Cun Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Li-Lei Guo
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Yan Xing
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Mei-Lin Zhu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, P.R. China
| | - Jin-Hua Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
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13
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Xu J, Fang J, Cheng Z, Fan L, Hu W, Zhou F, Shen H. Overexpression of the Kininogen-1 inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis of glioma cells. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2018; 37:180. [PMID: 30068373 PMCID: PMC6090912 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-018-0833-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Glioma is the most common primary central nervous system tumor derived from glial cells. Kininogen-1 (KNG1) can exert antiangiogenic properties and inhibit proliferation of endothelial cells. The effect of KNG1 on the glioma is rarely reported, so our purpose in to explore its mechanism in glioma cells. Methods The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The KNG1-vector was transfected into the two glioma cells. The viability, apoptosis and cell cycle of glioma cells and microvessel density (MVD) were detected by cell counting kit-8 assay, flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The expression were measured by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot, respectively. A tumor mouse model was established to determine apoptosis rate of brain tissue by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transfer-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) analysis. Results KNG1 was identified as the core gene and lowly expressed in the glioma cells. Overexpression of KNG1 inhibited cell viability and angiogenesis of glioma cells. Overexpression of KNG1 promoted the apoptosis and G1 phase cell cycle arrest of glioma cells. Moreover, the expressions of VEGF, cyclinD1, ki67, caspase-3/9 and XIAP were regulated by overexpression of KNG1. In addition, overexpression of KNG1 inhibited the activity of PI3K/Akt. Furthermore, overexpression of KNG1 decreased the tumor growth and promoted the apoptosis of decreased by overexpression of KNG1 in vivo. . Conclusions Overexpression of KNG1 suppresses glioma progression by inhibiting the proliferation and promoting apoptosis of glioma cells, providing a therapeutic strategy for the malignant glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfang Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310009, China
| | - Jun Fang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No.1 East Banshan Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310022, China
| | - Zhonghao Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310009, China
| | - Longlong Fan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310009, China
| | - Weiwei Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310009, China
| | - Feng Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310009, China.
| | - Hong Shen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No.88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310009, China
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Du J, Wang R, Yin L, Fu Y, Cai Y, Zhang Z, Liang A. B mK CT enhances the sensitivity of temozolomide-induced apoptosis of malignant glioma U251 cells in vitro through blocking the AKT signaling pathway. Oncol Lett 2018; 15:1537-1544. [PMID: 29434848 PMCID: PMC5774446 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.7483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Temozolomide (TMZ) is a drug that has been demonstrated to improve the survival time of patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) when administered with concomitant radiotherapy. However, chemoresistance is one of the major obstacles in the treatment of GBM. In the present study, an MTT assay and flow cytometry were used to demonstrate that chlorotoxin-like toxin in the venom of the scorpion Buthus martensii Kirsch (BmK CT) markedly inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in U251 cells when combined with TMZ. In combination with TMZ, BmK CT exhibited a significant and synergistic anti-tumor effect by inhibiting protein kinase B (AKT) independently and triggering the apoptosis signaling cascade in vitro. Furthermore, BmK CT increased the expression of phosphatase and tensin homolog at the transcriptional level, which is a key negative regulator of the AKT signaling pathway. The results of the present study demonstrated that BmK CT enhanced the sensitivity of TMZ-induced U251 cell apoptosis through the downregulation of phosphorylated AKT levels, suggesting that BmK CT and TMZ combination therapy may be a novel approach for glioma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Du
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Institute of Biotechnology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, P.R. China
| | - Ruijie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Institute of Biotechnology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, P.R. China
| | - Litian Yin
- Department of Physiology, Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology Co-Constructed by Province and Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, P.R. China
| | - Yuejun Fu
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Institute of Biotechnology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, P.R. China
| | - Yuqing Cai
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Institute of Biotechnology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, P.R. China
| | - Zhiyun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Institute of Biotechnology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, P.R. China
| | - Aihua Liang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Institute of Biotechnology, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, P.R. China
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15
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan M. Akef
- National Organization for Research and Control of Biologicals (NORCB), Giza, Egypt
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16
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Zhou J, Wang F, Liu B, Yang L, Wang X, Liu Y. Knockdown of Serine Threonine Tyrosine Kinase 1 (STYK1) Inhibits the Migration and Tumorigenesis in Glioma Cells. Oncol Res 2017; 25:931-937. [PMID: 27983928 PMCID: PMC7841159 DOI: 10.3727/096504016x14772424117423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric glioma is a devastating brain tumor. Serine threonine tyrosine kinase 1 (STYK1) is a member of the protein tyrosine kinase family and plays a significant role in the formation of several malignant tumors. However, the expression pattern and role of STYK1 in glioma are not yet clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the role and molecular mechanism of STYK1 in glioma. The results showed that STYK1 was highly expressed in glioma cell lines. We also found that knockdown of STYK1 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro as well as tumorigenesis in vivo. Furthermore, knockdown of STYK1 significantly decreased the expression levels of phosphorylation of PI3K and Akt in glioma cells. Taken together, our data suggest that STYK1 plays an important role in the development and progression of glioma. Therefore, STYK1 may represent a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of glioma.
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17
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Wu W, Li Z, Ma Y. Adaptive evolution of insect selective excitatory β-type sodium channel neurotoxins from scorpion venom. Peptides 2017; 92:31-37. [PMID: 28363794 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2017.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 03/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Insect selective excitatory β-type sodium channel neurotoxins from scorpion venom (β-NaScTxs) are composed of about 70-76 amino acid residues and share a common scaffold stabilized by four unique disulfide bonds. The phylogenetic analysis of these toxins was hindered by limited sequence data. In our recent study, two new insect selective excitatory β-NaScTxs, LmIT and ImIT, were isolated from Lychas mucronatus and Isometrus maculatus, respectively. With the sequences previously reported, we examined the adaptive molecular evolution of insect selective excitatory β-NaScTxs by estimating the nonsynonymous-to-synonymous rate ratio (ω=dN/dS). The results revealed 12 positively selected sites in the genes of insect selective excitatory β-NaScTxs. Moreover, these positively selected sites match well with the sites important for interacting with sodium channels, as demonstrated in previous mutagenesis study. These results reveal that adaptive evolution after gene duplication is one of the most important genetic mechanisms of scorpion neurotoxin diversification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlan Wu
- Medical School, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, PR China.
| | - Zhongjie Li
- Medical School, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Yibao Ma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA.
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18
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Qiao W, Zhao L, Wu S, Liu C, Guo L, Xing Y, Zhao J. SPECT imaging and radionuclide therapy of glioma using 131I labeled Buthus martensii Karsch chlorotoxin. J Neurooncol 2017; 133:287-295. [PMID: 28488065 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-017-2456-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Gliomas, the most prevalent type of brain tumor in adults, are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Recent studies on 131I labeled scorpion toxins suggest they can be developed as tumor-specific agents for glioma diagnosis and treatment. This study investigated the potential of 131I labeled Buthus martensii Karsch chlorotoxin (131I-BmK CT) as a new approach for targeted imaging and therapy of glioma. The results showed that 131I can be successfully linked to BmK CT with satisfactory radiochemical purity and stability and that 131I-BmK CT markedly inhibited glioma cell growth in a dose and time dependent manner, with significant accumulation in glioma cells in vitro. Persistent intratumoral radioiodine retention and specific accumulation of 131I-BmK CT were observed in C6 glioma tumor, which was clearly visualized by SPECT imaging. Both intratumoral and intravenous injections of 131I-BmK CT could result in significant tumor inhibition efficacy and prolonging the lifetime of tumor-bearing mice. Based on these promising results, it is concluded that 131I-BmK CT has the potential to be explored as a novel tool for SPECT imaging and radionuclide therapy of glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Qiao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200080, China
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Lingzhou Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Shan Wu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Changcun Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Lilei Guo
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Yan Xing
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Jinhua Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, 200080, China.
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China.
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19
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Sun N, Zhao L, Qiao W, Xing Y, Zhao J. BmK CT and 125I-BmK CT suppress the invasion of glioma cells in vitro via matrix metalloproteinase-2. Mol Med Rep 2017; 15:2703-2708. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 02/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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20
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Chaisakul J, Hodgson WC, Kuruppu S, Prasongsook N. Effects of Animal Venoms and Toxins on Hallmarks of Cancer. J Cancer 2016; 7:1571-8. [PMID: 27471574 PMCID: PMC4964142 DOI: 10.7150/jca.15309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal venoms are a cocktail of proteins and peptides, targeting vital physiological processes. Venoms have evolved to assist in the capture and digestion of prey. Key venom components often include neurotoxins, myotoxins, cardiotoxins, hematoxins and catalytic enzymes. The pharmacological activities of venom components have been investigated as a source of potential therapeutic agents. Interestingly, a number of animal toxins display profound anticancer effects. These include toxins purified from snake, bee and scorpion venoms effecting cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptotic activity and neovascularization. Indeed, the mechanism behind the anticancer effect of certain toxins is similar to that of agents currently used in chemotherapy. For example, Lebein is a snake venom disintegrin which generates anti-angiogenic effects by inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF). In this review article, we highlight the biological activities of animal toxins on the multiple steps of tumour formation or hallmarks of cancer. We also discuss recent progress in the discovery of lead compounds for anticancer drug development from venom components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janeyuth Chaisakul
- 1. Department of Pharmacology, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Wayne C Hodgson
- 2. Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Sanjaya Kuruppu
- 2. Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.; 3. Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Naiyarat Prasongsook
- 4. Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Phramongkutklao Hospital, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
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21
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Cheng Y, Zhu J, Zhao L, Xiong Z, Tang Y, Liu C, Guo L, Qiao W, Shi X, Zhao J. 131I-labeled multifunctional dendrimers modified with BmK CT for targeted SPECT imaging and radiotherapy of gliomas. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2016; 11:1253-66. [PMID: 26940668 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2016-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: The poly(amidoamine) dendrimers modified with Buthus martensii Karsch chlorotoxin (BmK CT) were developed as a 131I delivery system for glioma-targeted imaging and therapy. Materials & methods: Dendrimers before and after labeling 131I were synthetized and their physicochemical properties were tested. The targeting and therapeutic efficacy of 131I-G5.NHAc-HPAO-(PEG-BmK CT)-(mPEG) dendrimer against glioma was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Results: All the dendrimers were stable under different conditions. BmK CT modification increased the cellular uptake of dendrimers in C6 glioma cells, but not in the normal RLE-6TN cells. 131I-G5.NHAc-HPAO-(PEG-BmK CT)-(mPEG) dendrimer was radiochemically pure and could be applied in glioma-targeting single-photon emission CT (SPECT) imaging and radiotherapy. Conclusion: 131I-G5.NHAc-HPAO-(PEG-BmK CT)-(mPEG) complex is a promising multifunctional nanoplatform for glioma-specific nuclear imaging and radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjun Cheng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingyi Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers & Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science & Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingzhou Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhijuan Xiong
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China
| | - Yueqin Tang
- Experiment Center, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Changcun Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Lilei Guo
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenli Qiao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangyang Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers & Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science & Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinhua Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
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22
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Xu T, Fan Z, Li W, Dietel B, Wu Y, Beckmann MW, Wrosch JK, Buchfelder M, Eyupoglu IY, Cao Z, Savaskan NE. Identification of two novel Chlorotoxin derivatives CA4 and CTX-23 with chemotherapeutic and anti-angiogenic potential. Sci Rep 2016; 6:19799. [PMID: 26831010 PMCID: PMC4735682 DOI: 10.1038/srep19799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors are fast proliferating and destructive within the brain microenvironment. Effective chemotherapeutic strategies are currently lacking which combat this deadly disease curatively. The glioma-specific chloride ion channel represents a specific target for therapy. Chlorotoxin (CTX), a peptide derived from scorpion venom, has been shown to be specific and efficacious in blocking glioma Cl(-) channel activity. Here, we report on two new derivatives (termed CA4 and CTX-23) designed and generated on the basis of the peptide sequence alignments of CTX and BmKCT. The novel peptides CA4 and CTX-23 are both effective in reducing glioma cell proliferation. In addition, CTX, CA4 and CTX-23 impact on cell migration and spheroid migration. These effects are accompanied by diminished cell extensions and increased nuclear sizes. Furthermore, we found that CA4 and CTX-23 are selective with low toxicity against primary neurons and astrocytes. In the ex vivo VOGiM, which maintain the entire brain tumor microenvironment, both CTX and CA4 display anti-tumor activity and reduce tumor volume. Hence, CTX and CA4 reveal anti-angiogenic properties with endothelial and angiogenic hotspots disrupting activities. These data report on the identification of two novel CTX derivatives with multiple anti-glioma properties including anti-angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tengfei Xu
- Translational Neurooncology Lab, Department of Neurosurgery, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) of Erlangen - Nürnberg, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Zheng Fan
- Translational Neurooncology Lab, Department of Neurosurgery, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) of Erlangen - Nürnberg, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Wenxin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072 P.R. China
| | - Barbara Dietel
- Translational Research Center, Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Schwabachanlage 12, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Yingliang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072 P.R. China
| | - Matthias W Beckmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, &Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) of Erlangen - Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jana K Wrosch
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) of Erlangen - Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Buchfelder
- Translational Neurooncology Lab, Department of Neurosurgery, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) of Erlangen - Nürnberg, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ilker Y Eyupoglu
- Translational Neurooncology Lab, Department of Neurosurgery, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) of Erlangen - Nürnberg, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Zhijian Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072 P.R. China
| | - Nicolai E Savaskan
- Translational Neurooncology Lab, Department of Neurosurgery, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) of Erlangen - Nürnberg, D-91054 Erlangen, Germany
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23
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Structure-Activity Relationship of Chlorotoxin-Like Peptides. Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:36. [PMID: 26848686 PMCID: PMC4773789 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8020036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2015] [Revised: 01/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal venom (e.g., scorpion) is a rich source of various protein and peptide toxins with diverse physio-/pharmaco-logical activities, which generally exert their action via target-specific modulation of different ion channel functions. Scorpion venoms are among the most widely-known source of peptidyl neurotoxins used for callipering different ion channels, such as; Na⁺, K⁺, Ca⁺, Cl(-), etc. A new peptide of the chlorotoxin family (i.e., Bs-Tx7) has been isolated, sequenced and synthesized from scorpion Buthus sindicus (family Buthidae) venom. This peptide demonstrates 66% with chlorotoxin (ClTx) and 82% with CFTR channel inhibitor (GaTx1) sequence identities reported from Leiurus quinquestriatus hebraeus venom. The toxin has a molecular mass of 3821 Da and possesses four intra-chain disulphide bonds. Amino acid sequence analysis of Bs-Tx7 revealed the presence of a scissile peptide bond (i.e., Gly-Ile) for human MMP2, whose activity is increased in the case of tumour malignancy. The effect of hMMP2 on Bs-Tx7, or vice versa, observed using the FRET peptide substrate with methoxycoumarin (Mca)/dinitrophenyl (Dnp) as fluorophore/quencher, designed and synthesized to obtain the lowest Km value for this substrate, showed approximately a 60% increase in the activity of hMMP2 upon incubation of Bs-Tx7 with the enzyme at a micromolar concentration (4 µM), indicating the importance of this toxin in diseases associated with decreased MMP2 activity.
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Ojeda PG, Wang CK, Craik DJ. Chlorotoxin: Structure, activity, and potential uses in cancer therapy. Biopolymers 2016; 106:25-36. [DOI: 10.1002/bip.22748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Revised: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Paola G. Ojeda
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland; Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Conan K. Wang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland; Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland; Brisbane QLD 4072 Australia
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25
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Yuan G, Yan S, Xue H, Zhang P, Sun J, Li G. JSI-124 suppresses invasion and angiogenesis of glioblastoma cells in vitro. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0118894. [PMID: 25789853 PMCID: PMC4366361 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0118894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the utmost malignant tumors. Excessive angiogenesis and invasiveness are the major reasons for their uncontrolled growth and resistance toward conventional strategies resulting in poor prognosis. In this study, we found that low-dose JSI-124 reduced invasiveness and tumorigenicity of GBM cells. JSI-124 effectively inhibited VEGF expression in GBM cells. In a coculture study, JSI-124 completely prevented U87MG cell–mediated capillary formation of HUVECs and the migration of HUVECs when cultured alone or cocultured with U87MG cells. Furthermore, JSI-124 inhibited VEGF-induced cell proliferation, motility, invasion and the formation of capillary-like structures in HUVECs in a dose-dependent manner. JSI-124 suppressed VEGF-induced p-VEGFR2 activity through STAT3 signaling cascade in HUVECs. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that the expression of CD34, Ki67, p-STAT3 and p-VEGFR2 protein in xenografts was remarkably decreased. Taken together, our findings provide the first evidence that JSI-124 effectively inhibits tumor angiogenesis and invasion, which might be a viable drug in anti-angiogenesis and anti-invasion therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 107 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, P.R. China
- Brain Science Research Institute, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, P.R. China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Central Hospital of Zibo City, 54 Gongqingtuan Xi Road, Zibo, 255036, P.R. China
| | - Shaofeng Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 107 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, P.R. China
| | - Hao Xue
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 107 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, P.R. China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 107 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, P.R. China
| | - Jintang Sun
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, P.R. China
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 107 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, P.R. China
- Brain Science Research Institute, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, P.R. China
- * E-mail:
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26
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Ortiz E, Gurrola GB, Schwartz EF, Possani LD. Scorpion venom components as potential candidates for drug development. Toxicon 2015; 93:125-35. [PMID: 25432067 PMCID: PMC7130864 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2014.11.233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 218] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Scorpions are well known for their dangerous stings that can result in severe consequences for human beings, including death. Neurotoxins present in their venoms are responsible for their toxicity. Due to their medical relevance, toxins have been the driving force in the scorpion natural compounds research field. On the other hand, for thousands of years, scorpions and their venoms have been applied in traditional medicine, mainly in Asia and Africa. With the remarkable growth in the number of characterized scorpion venom components, several drug candidates have been found with the potential to tackle many of the emerging global medical threats. Scorpions have become a valuable source of biologically active molecules, from novel antibiotics to potential anticancer therapeutics. Other venom components have drawn attention as useful scaffolds for the development of drugs. This review summarizes the most promising candidates for drug development that have been isolated from scorpion venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Ortiz
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autonóma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico
| | - Georgina B Gurrola
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autonóma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico
| | - Elisabeth Ferroni Schwartz
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil
| | - Lourival D Possani
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autonóma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico.
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Sun Z, Zhang W, Zhang P, Gao D, Gong P, Yu XF, Wu Y, Cao Z, Li W, Cai L. Neurotoxin-directed synthesis and in vitro evaluation of Au nanoclusters. RSC Adv 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c5ra03006d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
A glioma-specific theranostic agent is prepared by using Chlorotoxin fusion protein to direct the synthesis of Au nanoclusters, which exhibit bright fluorescence and high specificity to target and treat glioma cells.
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Suppression of C6 gliomas via application of rat hyperplasia gene. Int J Biol Markers 2014; 29:e411-22. [PMID: 25362936 DOI: 10.5301/jbm.5000114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among all neurological tumors, tumor incidence of the neuroepithelial tissue is the highest, where 50% are gliomas. Treatment for gliomas has traditionally included surgery and adjuvant therapy. With advancements in medicine, gene therapy has entered the clinical setting, in which control of tumor growth, tumor volume and decrease of supply of blood to the tumor have been observed. Rat hyperplasia suppressor gene (rHSG) has been proven to inhibit the injury-mediated proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells. METHODS A recombinant adenovirus, Adv-rHSG-GFP, was constructed and characterized by in vitro and in vivo studies. The function of rHSG on cell proliferation was determined in vitro by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) exclusion assay and plate clone formation, while a C6/Sprague Dawley rat glioma model was established to observe the effect of rHSG in vivo. RESULTS Overexpression of rHSG displayed a strong effect on suppressing C6 cells proliferation in vitro and growth of glioma in vivo, which suggests the use of rHSG as a possible treatment strategy for glioma. p21Cip1, p27Kip1 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen were found to be involved in the tumor suppression mechanism of rHSG. CONCLUSIONS rHSG can markedly inhibit of the growth of rat glioma cells. The suppression mechanism of rHSG may be related to cell cycle regulation, which shows that rHSG is a potential therapeutic target of glioma tumor. This preclinical study supports a further in-depth study on the effect of rHSG on cell proliferation, migration and change in the extracellular matrix component of glioma cells.
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Kavitha CV, Jain AK, Agarwal C, Pierce A, Keating A, Huber KM, Serkova NJ, Wempe MF, Agarwal R, Deep G. Asiatic acid induces endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptotic death in glioblastoma multiforme cells both in vitro and in vivo. Mol Carcinog 2014; 54:1417-29. [PMID: 25252179 DOI: 10.1002/mc.22220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2014] [Revised: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an untreatable malignancy. Existing therapeutic options are insufficient, and adversely affect functional and non-cancerous cells in the brain impairing different functions of the body. Therefore, there is an urgent need for additional preventive and therapeutic non-toxic drugs against GBM. Asiatic acid (AsA; 2,3,23-trihydroxy-12-ursen-28-oic acid, C30 H48 O5 ) is a natural small molecule widely used to treat various neurological disorders, and the present research investigates AsA's efficacy against GBM both in vitro and in vivo. Results showed that AsA treatment (10-100 µM) decreased the human GBM cell (LN18, U87MG, and U118MG) viability, with better efficacy than temozolomide at equimolar doses. Orally administered AsA (30 mg/kg/d) strongly decreased tumor volume in mice when administered immediately after ectopic U87MG xenograft implantation (54% decrease, P ≤ 0.05) or in mice with established xenografts (48% decrease, P ≤ 0.05) without any apparent toxicity. Importantly, AsA feeding (30 mg/kg/twice a day) also decreased the orthotopic U87MG xenografts growth in nude mice as measured by magnetic resonance imaging. Using LC/MS-MS methods, AsA was detected in mice plasma and brain tissue, confirming that AsA crosses blood-brain barrier. Mechanistic studies showed that AsA induces apoptotic death by modulating the protein expression of several apoptosis regulators (caspases, Bcl2 family members, and survivin) in GBM cells. Furthermore, AsA induced ER stress (increased GRP78 and Calpain, and decreased Calnexin and IRE1α expression), enhanced free intra-cellular calcium, and damaged cellular organization in GBM cells. These experimental results demonstrate that AsA is effective against GBM, and advocate further pre-clinical and clinical evaluations of AsA against GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandagirikoppal V Kavitha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Anil K Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Chapla Agarwal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Angela Pierce
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Amy Keating
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Kendra M Huber
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Natalie J Serkova
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Michael F Wempe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Rajesh Agarwal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Gagan Deep
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
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Arzamasov AA, Vassilevski AA, Grishin EV. Chlorotoxin and related peptides: Short insect toxins from scorpion venom. RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF BIOORGANIC CHEMISTRY 2014; 40:387-98. [DOI: 10.1134/s1068162014040013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Yang Y, Zeng XC, Zhang L, Nie Y, Shi W, Liu Y. Androcin, a novel type of cysteine-rich venom peptide fromAndroctonus bicolor, induces akinesia and anxiety-like symptoms in mice. IUBMB Life 2014; 66:277-85. [DOI: 10.1002/iub.1261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2013] [Revised: 03/02/2014] [Accepted: 03/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology & Department of Biological Science and Technology; School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan); Wuhan 430074 People's Republic of China
| | - Xian-Chun Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology & Department of Biological Science and Technology; School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan); Wuhan 430074 People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology & Department of Biological Science and Technology; School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan); Wuhan 430074 People's Republic of China
| | - Yao Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology & Department of Biological Science and Technology; School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan); Wuhan 430074 People's Republic of China
| | - Wanxia Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology & Department of Biological Science and Technology; School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan); Wuhan 430074 People's Republic of China
| | - Yichen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology & Department of Biological Science and Technology; School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan); Wuhan 430074 People's Republic of China
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Ding J, Chua PJ, Bay BH, Gopalakrishnakone P. Scorpion venoms as a potential source of novel cancer therapeutic compounds. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2014; 239:387-93. [PMID: 24599885 DOI: 10.1177/1535370213513991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpions and their venoms have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years in China, India and Africa. The scorpion venom is a highly complex mixture of salts, nucleotides, biogenic amines, enzymes, mucoproteins, as well as peptides and proteins (e.g. neurotoxins). One of the recently observed biological properties of animal venoms and toxins is that they possess anticancer potential. An increasing number of studies have shown that scorpion venoms and toxins can decrease cancer growth, induce apoptosis and inhibit cancer progression and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Several active molecules with anticancer activities, ranging from inhibition of proliferation and cell cycle arrest to induction of apoptosis and decreasing cell migration and invasion, have been isolated from scorpion venoms. These observations have shed light on the application of scorpion venoms and toxins as potential novel cancer therapeutics. This mini-review focuses on the anticancer potential of scorpion venoms and toxins and the possible mechanisms for their antitumor activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Ding
- Venom and Toxin Research Programme, Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117 597
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Zang M, Liu X, Chen L, Xiao Q, Yuan L, Yang J. Determination of BmKCT-13, a chlorotoxin-like peptide, in rat plasma by LC–MS/MS: Application to a preclinical pharmacokinetic study. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2014; 947-948:125-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2013.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Revised: 12/02/2013] [Accepted: 12/18/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Wang J, Xiong Z, Yang Y, Zhao N, Wang Y. Significant expression of a Chinese scorpion peptide, BmK1, in Escherichia coli through promoter engineering and gene dosage strategy. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2014; 61:466-73. [PMID: 24372571 PMCID: PMC4269186 DOI: 10.1002/bab.1194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Accepted: 12/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Heterologous expression is an efficient alternative to conventional extraction to produce a specific Buthus martensii Karsch (BmK) peptide. In this work, BmK1 was successfully expressed in Escherichia coli after genetic codon optimization, but BmK1 content was <6% of total cellular protein. To improve BmK1 expression, a trc promoter library with a wide relative strength was constructed, and three promoters, PpJF136 (0.55), PpJF325 (1.29), and PpJF288 (2.31), were selected to control BmK1 expression. A higher BmK1 expression (>13.9% of total protein) was obtained using a stronger promoter, PpJF325. Furthermore, a maximum BmK1 content (>21.7% of total protein) was obtained by combining promoter PpJF325 and three copies of the BmK1 gene. The yield of the purified BmK1 achieved 196.74 mg L−1 in E. coli BL21(DE3) pJF431, which was improved 2.09-fold compared with the control. This was the highest reported production of scorpion peptides in E. coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiqiang Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingying Yang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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Meng H, Wang J, Xiong Z, Xu F, Zhao G, Wang Y. Quantitative design of regulatory elements based on high-precision strength prediction using artificial neural network. PLoS One 2013; 8:e60288. [PMID: 23560087 PMCID: PMC3613377 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0060288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 02/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Accurate and controllable regulatory elements such as promoters and ribosome binding sites (RBSs) are indispensable tools to quantitatively regulate gene expression for rational pathway engineering. Therefore, de novo designing regulatory elements is brought back to the forefront of synthetic biology research. Here we developed a quantitative design method for regulatory elements based on strength prediction using artificial neural network (ANN). One hundred mutated Trc promoter & RBS sequences, which were finely characterized with a strength distribution from 0 to 3.559 (relative to the strength of the original sequence which was defined as 1), were used for model training and test. A precise strength prediction model, NET90_19_576, was finally constructed with high regression correlation coefficients of 0.98 for both model training and test. Sixteen artificial elements were in silico designed using this model. All of them were proved to have good consistency between the measured strength and our desired strength. The functional reliability of the designed elements was validated in two different genetic contexts. The designed parts were successfully utilized to improve the expression of BmK1 peptide toxin and fine-tune deoxy-xylulose phosphate pathway in Escherichia coli. Our results demonstrate that the methodology based on ANN model can de novo and quantitatively design regulatory elements with desired strengths, which are of great importance for synthetic biology applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailin Meng
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianfeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiqiang Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Guoping Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail:
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Zeng XC, Nie Y, Luo X, Wu S, Shi W, Zhang L, Liu Y, Cao H, Yang Y, Zhou J. Molecular and bioinformatical characterization of a novel superfamily of cysteine-rich peptides from arthropods. Peptides 2013; 41:45-58. [PMID: 23099316 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2012.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2012] [Revised: 10/05/2012] [Accepted: 10/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The full-length cDNA sequences of two novel cysteine-rich peptides (referred to as HsVx1 and MmKTx1) were obtained from scorpions. The two peptides represent a novel class of cysteine-rich peptides with a unique cysteine pattern. The genomic sequence of HsVx1 is composed of three exons interrupted by two introns that are localized in the mature peptide encoding region and inserted in phase 1 and phase 2, respectively. Such a genomic organization markedly differs from those of other peptides from scorpions described previously. Genome-wide search for the orthologs of HsVx1 identified 59 novel cysteine-rich peptides from arthropods. These peptides share a consistent cysteine pattern with HsVx1. Genomic comparison revealed extensive intron length differences and intronic number and position polymorphisms among the genes of these peptides. Further analysis identified 30 cases of intron sliding, 1 case of intron gain and 22 cases of intron loss occurred with the genes of the HsVx1 and HsVx1-like peptides. It is interesting to see that three HsVx1-like peptides XP_001658928, XP_001658929 and XP_001658930 were derived from a single gene (XP gene): the former two were generated from alternative splicing; the third one was encoded by a DNA region in the reverse complementary strand of the third intron of the XP gene. These findings strongly suggest that the genes of these cysteine-rich peptides were evolved by intron sliding, intron gain/loss, gene recombination and alternative splicing events in response to selective forces without changing their cysteine pattern. The evolution of these genes is dominated by intron sliding and intron loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Chun Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China.
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Du J, Fu Y, Wang J, Liang A. Adenovirus-mediated expression of BmK CT suppresses growth and invasion of rat C6 glioma cells. Biotechnol Lett 2013; 35:861-70. [DOI: 10.1007/s10529-013-1167-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Accepted: 02/11/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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pEGFP-N1-mediated BmK CT expression suppresses the migration of glioma. Cytotechnology 2012; 65:533-9. [PMID: 23242773 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-012-9518-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2012] [Accepted: 11/18/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Gliomas can diffuse into the normal brain and this invasion of glioma cells involves modification of receptor-mediated adhesive properties of tumor cells, degradation and remodeling of extracellular matrix by tumor-secreted metalloproteinase (MMPs) such as MMP-2, consequently creating an intercellular space for invasion of glioma cells. BmK CT, one of the key toxins in scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch venom, is a novel blocker of the chloride ion channel and MMP-2. In this report, a recombinant plasmid pEGFP-N1-BmK CT was constructed and characterized by in vitro studies. The results showed that pEGFP-N1 mediated BmK CT expression displayed a high activity in suppressing cell migration via MMP-2. The potential therapeutic effect of pEGFP-N1 mediated BmK CT against rat glioma C6 cells was assessed and its potential mechanism was elucidated. It represented an approach for developing a novel therapeutic agent-recombinant plasmid pEGFP-N1-BmK CT as an efficient and powerful adjuvant.
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Analgesic-antitumor peptide induces apoptosis and inhibits the proliferation of SW480 human colon cancer cells. Oncol Lett 2012; 5:483-488. [PMID: 23420047 PMCID: PMC3573048 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2012.1049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2012] [Accepted: 10/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors, and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In this study, recombinant analgesic-antitumor peptide (rAGAP), a protein consisting of small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO) linked with a hexa-histidine tag, was used as an antitumor analgesic peptide. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the antitumor activity of rAGAP in human colon adenocarcinoma SW480 cells and its potential molecular mechanisms of action. In this study, cell viability and apoptosis of rAGAP-treated SW480 cells was evaluated by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, flow cytometry and 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining. Western blotting was used to investigate the effects of rAGAP on p27, Bcl-2/Bax and PTEN/PI3K/Akt cellular signal transduction. Our results showed that rAGAP not only enhanced apoptosis, but also inhibited the proliferation of SW480 cells. rAGAP upregulates the expression of p27 in SW480 cells and leads to cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase. Furthermore, rAGAP significantly increases the production of Bax and PTEN and suppresses the activation of Bcl-2, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and phospho-Akt (p-Akt) in SW480 cells. These results suggest that rAGAP may be a potential new anti-colorectal cancer drug.
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Niu M, Li X, Gong Q, Wang C, Qin C, Wang W, Chen P. Expression of 4kD scorpion defensin and its in vitro synergistic activity with conventional antibiotics. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2012; 29:281-8. [PMID: 23054701 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-012-1181-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2012] [Accepted: 09/25/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The 4kD scorpion defensin (SD) is a potent disulfide-linked peptide. In this study, we expressed it in methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris and purified it using Ni-NTA His Bind Resin. We investigated its in vitro antibacterial activity and effect in combination with several conventional antibiotics. We first examined its antibacterial activity towards several Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Then we used the broth microdilution method to test drugs alone and in combination and used the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC index) to classify the drug interactions. Our study showed the expressed SD peptide has antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhimurium, E. coli and S. aureus etc. Synergy or additive interaction was observed between SD and Norfloxacin, Polymyxin B and Ampicillin. Cell growth tests showed that combination of SD and Norfloxacin can improve their activity against bacteria. This result maybe permit lower using of the conventional antibiotic agents more effectively and safely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingfu Niu
- Food and Bioengineering College, He'nan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471003 He'nan, People's Republic of China.
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Xu J, Zhang X, Guo Z, Yan J, Yu L, Li X, Xue X, Liang X. Short-chain peptides identification of scorpion Buthus martensi
Karsch venom by employing high orthogonal 2D-HPLC system and tandem mass spectrometry. Proteomics 2012; 12:3076-84. [DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201200224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2012] [Revised: 07/23/2012] [Accepted: 07/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Junyan Xu
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry; Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Liaoning China
- Graduate School of Chinese Academy of Sciences; Beijing China
| | - Xiuli Zhang
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry; Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Liaoning China
| | - Zhimou Guo
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry; Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Liaoning China
| | - Jingyu Yan
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry; Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Liaoning China
| | - Long Yu
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry; Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Liaoning China
| | - Xiuling Li
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry; Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Liaoning China
| | - Xingya Xue
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry; Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Liaoning China
| | - Xinmiao Liang
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry; Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Liaoning China
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Cao L, Li Z, Zhang R, Wu Y, Li W, Cao Z. StCT2, a new antibacterial peptide characterized from the venom of the scorpion Scorpiops tibetanus. Peptides 2012; 36:213-20. [PMID: 22542475 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2012.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2012] [Revised: 04/13/2012] [Accepted: 04/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial infection poses an increasing threat to global public health and new types of antibacterial agents are urgently needed to respond to the threat. Scorpion venom contains series of bioactive peptides, among which antibacterial peptide is an important part. Herein, a new antimicrobial peptide StCT2 was characterized from the venomous gland cDNA library of the Scorpiops tibetanus. The full-length cDNA of StCT2 is 369 nucleotides encoding the precursor that contains a putative 24 residues signal peptide, a presumed 14 residues mature peptide, and a putative 37 residues acidic propeptide at the C-terminus. The minimal inhibition concentrations (MICs) of StCT2 for Staphylococcus aureus were 6.25-25μg/ml, including antibiotic-resistant strains such as methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA). StCT2 was further found to show high in vivo antimicrobial activity by an S. aureus infection mouse model. StCT2 exerted its antimicrobial activity via a rapid bactericidal mechanism. Taken together, these results demonstrate the efficacy and general mechanism of StCT2 antimicrobial action and the therapeutic potential of StCT2 as a new antimicrobial peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyang Cao
- College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
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Cao L, Dai C, Li Z, Fan Z, Song Y, Wu Y, Cao Z, Li W. Antibacterial activity and mechanism of a scorpion venom peptide derivative in vitro and in vivo. PLoS One 2012; 7:e40135. [PMID: 22792229 PMCID: PMC3390344 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0040135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2012] [Accepted: 06/04/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BmKn2 is an antimicrobial peptide (AMP) characterized from the venom of scorpion Mesobuthus martensii Karsch by our group. In this study, Kn2-7 was derived from BmKn2 to improve the antibacterial activity and decrease hemolytic activity. Kn2-7 showed increased inhibitory activity against both gram-positive bacteria and gram-negative bacteria. Moreover, Kn2-7 exhibited higher antibacterial activity against clinical antibiotic-resistant strains such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In addition, the topical use of Kn2-7 effectively protected the skin of mice from infection in an S. aureus mouse skin infection model. Kn2-7 exerted its antibacterial activity via a bactericidal mechanism. Kn2-7 killed S. aureus and E. coli rapidly by binding to the lipoteichoic acid (LTA) in the S. aureus cell wall and the lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in the E. coli cell wall, respectively. Finally, the hemolytic activity of Kn2-7 was significantly decreased, compared to the wild-type peptide BmKn2. Taken together, the Kn2-7 peptide can be developed as a topical therapeutic agent for treating bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyang Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Chao Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Zhongjie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Zheng Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Yu Song
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Yingliang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Zhijian Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
- * E-mail: (ZC); (WL)
| | - Wenxin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
- * E-mail: (ZC); (WL)
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Stroud MR, Hansen SJ, Olson JM. In vivo bio-imaging using chlorotoxin-based conjugates. Curr Pharm Des 2012; 17:4362-71. [PMID: 22204434 DOI: 10.2174/138161211798999375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2011] [Accepted: 11/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Surgical resection remains the primary component of cancer therapy. The precision required to successfully separate cancer tissue from normal tissue relies heavily on the surgeon's ability to delineate the tumor margins. Despite recent advances in surgical guidance and monitoring systems, intra-operative identification of these margins remains imprecise and directly influences patient prognosis. If the surgeon had improved tools to distinguish these margins, tumor progression and unacceptable morbidity could be avoided. In this article, we review the history of chlorotoxin and its tumor specificity and discuss the research currently being generated to target optical imaging agents to cancer tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark R Stroud
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
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Song X, Zhang G, Sun A, Guo J, Tian Z, Wang H, Liu Y. Scorpion venom component III inhibits cell proliferation by modulating NF-κB activation in human leukemia cells. Exp Ther Med 2012; 4:146-150. [PMID: 23060939 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2012.548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2011] [Accepted: 04/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpion venom contains various groups of compounds that exhibit anticancer activity against a variety of malignancies through a poorly understood mechanism. While the aberrant activation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) has been linked with hematopoietic malignancies, we hypothesized that scorpion venom mediates its effects by modulating the NF-κB signaling pathway. In the present study, we examined the effects of scorpion venom component III (SVCIII) on the human leukemia cell lines THP-1 and Jurkat and focused on the NF-κB signaling pathway. Our results showed that SVCIII inhibited cell proliferation, caused cell cycle arrest at G1 phase and inhibited the expression of cell cycle regulatory protein cyclin D1 in a dose-dependent manner in THP-1 and Jurkat cells. SVCIII also suppressed the constitutive NF-κB activation through inhibition of the phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα. NF-κB luciferase reporter activity was also inhibited by SVCIII. Our data suggest that SVCIII, a natural compound, may exert its antiproliferative effects by inhibiting the activation of NF-κB and, thus, has potential use in the treatment of hematopoietic malignancies, alone or in combination with other agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangfeng Song
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou; ; Department of Immunology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang
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Zeng XC, Zhang L, Nie Y, Luo X. Identification and molecular characterization of three new K+-channel specific toxins from the Chinese scorpion Mesobuthus martensii Karsch revealing intronic number polymorphism and alternative splicing in duplicated genes. Peptides 2012; 34:311-23. [PMID: 22230549 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2011.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2011] [Revised: 12/21/2011] [Accepted: 12/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
K(+)-channel specific toxins from scorpions are powerful probes used in the structural and functional characterization of different subfamilies of K(+)-channels which are thought to be the most diverse ion channels. However, only a limited number of K(+)-channel toxins have been identified from scorpions so far; moreover, little is known about the mechanisms for the generation of a combinatorial peptide library in a venom gland of a scorpion. Here, we identified and characterized three new K(+)-channel toxin-like peptides from the scorpion Mesobuthus martensii Karsch, which were referred to as BmKcug1, BmKcug2 and BmKcugx, respectively. BmKcug1 and BmKcug2 are two new members of α-KTx1 subfamily, and have been classified as α-KTx1.14 and α-KTx1.15, respectively. BmKcugx represents a new subfamily of K(+)-channel specific toxins which was classified into α-KTx22. BmKcugx was thus classified as α-KTx22.1. Genomic analysis demonstrated that BmKcugx gene has two exons interrupted by an intron inserted in the signal peptide encoding region, whereas BmKcug1a (a close homologue of BmKcug1)/BmKcug2 gene was interrupted by two introns, located within the 5'UTR of the gene and in the signal peptide encoding region, respectively. Transcriptomic analysis for the venom glands of M. martensii Karsch indicated that the abundances of the transcripts of BmKcug1a and BmKcug2 are much higher than that of BmKcugx; it suggests that the intron in 5'UTR could markedly increase the expression level of the K(+)-channel toxins. Alignment of the genomic sequences of BmKcug1a and BmKcug2 revealed that an alternative splicing event occurred at the intron 1-exon 2 junction in the 5'UTR of BmKcug2 transcript.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Chun Zeng
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, School of Environmental Studies & State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), Wuhan 430074, China.
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Kavitha CV, Agarwal C, Agarwal R, Deep G. Asiatic acid inhibits pro-angiogenic effects of VEGF and human gliomas in endothelial cell culture models. PLoS One 2011; 6:e22745. [PMID: 21826202 PMCID: PMC3149605 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0022745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [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: 05/05/2011] [Accepted: 07/03/2011] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant gliomas are one of the most devastating and incurable tumors. Sustained excessive angiogenesis by glioma cells is the major reason for their uncontrolled growth and resistance toward conventional therapies resulting in high mortality. Therefore, targeting angiogenesis should be a logical strategy to prevent or control glioma cell growth. Earlier studies have shown that Asiatic Acid (AsA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid, is effective against glioma and other cancer cells; however, its efficacy against angiogenesis remains unknown. In the present study, we examined the anti-angiogenic efficacy of AsA using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMEC). Our results showed that AsA (5–20 µM) inhibits HUVEC growth and induces apoptotic cell death by activating caspases (3 and 9) and modulating the expression of apoptosis regulators Bad, survivin and pAkt-ser473. Further, AsA showed a dose-dependent inhibition of HUVEC migration, invasion and capillary tube formation, and disintegrated preformed capillary network. AsA also inhibited the VEGF-stimulated growth and capillary tube formation by HUVEC and HBMEC. Next, we analyzed the angiogenic potential of conditioned media collected from human glioma LN18 and U87-MG cells treated with either DMSO (control conditioned media, CCM) or AsA 20 µM (AsA20 conditioned media, AsA20CM). CCM from glioma cells significantly enhanced the capillary tube formation in both HUVEC and HBMEC, while capillary tube formation in both endothelial cell lines was greatly compromised in the presence of AsA20CM. Consistent with these results, VEGF expression was lesser in AsA20CM compared to CCM, and indeed AsA strongly inhibited VEGF level (both cellular and secreted) in glioma cells. AsA also showed dose-dependent anti-angiogenic efficacy in Matrigel plug assay, and inhibited the glioma cells potential to attract HUVEC/HBMEC. Overall, the present study clearly showed the strong anti-angiogenic potential of AsA and suggests its usefulness against malignant gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandagirikoppal V. Kavitha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Chapla Agarwal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Rajesh Agarwal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Gagan Deep
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Haas BR, Sontheimer H. Inhibition of the Sodium-Potassium-Chloride Cotransporter Isoform-1 reduces glioma invasion. Cancer Res 2010; 70:5597-606. [PMID: 20570904 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-09-4666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Malignant gliomas metastasize throughout the brain by infiltrative cell migration into peritumoral areas. Invading cells undergo profound changes in cell shape and volume as they navigate extracellular spaces along blood vessels and white matter tracts. Volume changes are aided by the concerted release of osmotically active ions, most notably K(+) and Cl(-). Their efflux through ion channels along with obligated water causes rapid cell shrinkage. Suitable ionic gradients must be established and maintained through the activity of ion transport systems. Here, we show that the Sodium-Potassium-Chloride Cotransporter Isoform-1 (NKCC1) provides the major pathway for Cl(-) accumulation in glioma cells. NKCC1 localizes to the leading edge of invading processes, and pharmacologic inhibition using the loop diuretic bumetanide inhibits in vitro Transwell migration by 25% to 50%. Short hairpin RNA knockdowns of NKCC1 yielded a similar inhibition and a loss of bumetanide-sensitive cell volume regulation. A loss of NKCC1 function did not affect cell motility in two-dimensional assays lacking spatial constraints but manifested only when cells had to undergo volume changes during migration. Intracranial implantation of human gliomas into severe combined immunodeficient mice showed a marked reduction in cell invasion when NKCC1 function was disrupted genetically or by twice daily injection of the Food and Drug Administration-approved NKCC1 inhibitor Bumex. These data support the consideration of Bumex as adjuvant therapy for patients with high-grade gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian R Haas
- Department of Neurobiology, Center for Glial Biology in Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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