1
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Kamboj A, Patil MT, Petrovsky N, Salunke DB. Structure-activity relationship in NOD2 agonistic muramyl dipeptides. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 271:116439. [PMID: 38691886 PMCID: PMC11099613 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2) is a receptor of the innate immune system that is capable of perceiving bacterial and viral infections. Muramyl dipeptide (MDP, N-acetyl muramyl L-alanyl-d-isoglutamine), identified as the minimal immunologically active component of bacterial cell wall peptidoglycan (PGN) is recognized by NOD2. In terms of biological activities, MDP demonstrated vaccine adjuvant activity and stimulated non-specific protection against bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections and cancer. However, MDP has certain drawbacks including pyrogenicity, rapid elimination, and lack of oral bioavailability. Several detailed structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies around MDP scaffolds are being carried out to identify better NOD2 ligands. The present review elaborates a comprehensive SAR summarizing structural aspects of MDP derivatives in relation to NOD2 agonistic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarzoo Kamboj
- Department of Chemistry and Centre of Advanced Studies in Chemistry, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India
| | - Madhuri T Patil
- Department of Chemistry, Mehr Chand Mahajan DAV College for Women, Chandigarh 160036, India
| | - Nikolai Petrovsky
- Vaxine Pty Ltd, Warradale, Australia; Australian Respiratory and Sleep Medicine Institute, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia.
| | - Deepak B Salunke
- Department of Chemistry and Centre of Advanced Studies in Chemistry, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India; National Interdisciplinary Centre of Vaccine, Immunotherapeutics and Antimicrobials, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India.
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2
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Tsukidate T, Hespen CW, Hang HC. Small molecule modulators of immune pattern recognition receptors. RSC Chem Biol 2023; 4:1014-1036. [PMID: 38033733 PMCID: PMC10685800 DOI: 10.1039/d3cb00096f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) represent a re-emerging class of therapeutic targets for vaccine adjuvants, inflammatory diseases and cancer. In this review article, we summarize exciting developments in discovery and characterization of small molecule PRR modulators, focusing on Toll-like receptors (TLRs), NOD-like receptors (NLRs) and the cGAS-STING pathway. We also highlight PRRs that are currently lacking small molecule modulators and opportunities for chemical biology and therapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taku Tsukidate
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Microbial Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University, New York New York 10065 USA
| | - Charles W Hespen
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Microbial Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University, New York New York 10065 USA
| | - Howard C Hang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Microbial Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University, New York New York 10065 USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology and Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla California 92037 USA
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3
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Guzelj S, Šišić M, Bizjak Š, Frkanec L, Frkanec R, Jakopin Ž. Lipidation of NOD2 Agonists with Adamantane and Stearoyl Moieties Differentially Regulates Their In Vivo Adjuvant Activity. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122755. [PMID: 36559249 PMCID: PMC9785857 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
NOD2 is an innate immune receptor that constitutes an important target for the development of small molecule immunopotentiators with great potential to be used as vaccine adjuvants. We report here the results of an in vivo study of the adjuvant properties of a desmuramylpeptide NOD2 agonist SG29 and its lipidated analogs featuring an adamantyl moiety or a stearoyl group. These compounds have been synthesized, incorporated into liposomes, and evaluated for their in vivo adjuvant activity. The characterization of liposome formulations of examined compounds revealed that their size increased in comparison to that of empty liposomes. The introduction of a stearoyl or an adamantane lipophilic anchor into the structure of SG29, to produce SG115 and ZSB63, respectively, substantially improved the in vivo adjuvant activity. Of note, the attachment of the stearoyl moiety produced a Th2-biased immune response, while the incorporation of the adamantyl moiety greatly enhanced the production of total IgG but mostly augmented the production of IgG2a antibodies, which indicated a shift toward a Th1 immune response. The identified bona fide capacity of ZSB63 to initiate a cellular immune response thus highlights its untapped potential as an alternative vaccine adjuvant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samo Guzelj
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Marcela Šišić
- Centre for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Špela Bizjak
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Leo Frkanec
- Rudjer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ruža Frkanec
- Centre for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Correspondence: (R.F.); (Ž.J.)
| | - Žiga Jakopin
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Correspondence: (R.F.); (Ž.J.)
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4
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Synthesis and Immunological Evaluation of Mannosylated Desmuramyl Dipeptides Modified by Lipophilic Triazole Substituents. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158628. [PMID: 35955759 PMCID: PMC9368957 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Muramyl dipeptide (N-acetylmuramyl-L-alanyl-D-isoglutamine, MDP) is the smallest peptidoglycan fragment able to trigger an immune response by activating the NOD2 receptor. Structural modification of MDP can lead to analogues with improved immunostimulating properties. The aim of this work was to prepare mannosylated desmuramyl peptides (ManDMP) containing lipophilic triazole substituents to study their immunomodulating activities in vivo. The adjuvant activity of the prepared compounds was evaluated in the mouse model using ovalbumin as an antigen and compared to the MDP and referent adjuvant ManDMPTAd. The obtained results confirm that the α-position of D-isoGln is the best position for the attachment of lipophilic substituents, especially adamantylethyl triazole. Compound 6c exhibited the strongest adjuvant activity, comparable to the MDP and better than referent ManDMPTAd.
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5
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Novel Scaffolds for Modulation of NOD2 Identified by Pharmacophore-Based Virtual Screening. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12081054. [PMID: 36008948 PMCID: PMC9405794 DOI: 10.3390/biom12081054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-containing protein 2 (NOD2) is an innate immune pattern recognition receptor responsible for the recognition of bacterial peptidoglycan fragments. Given its central role in the formation of innate and adaptive immune responses, NOD2 represents a valuable target for modulation with agonists and antagonists. A major challenge in the discovery of novel small-molecule NOD2 modulators is the lack of a co-crystallized complex with a ligand, which has limited previous progress to ligand-based design approaches and high-throughput screening campaigns. To that end, a hybrid docking and pharmacophore modeling approach was used to identify key interactions between NOD2 ligands and residues in the putative ligand-binding site. Following docking of previously reported NOD2 ligands to a homology model of human NOD2, a structure-based pharmacophore model was created and used to virtually screen a library of commercially available compounds. Two compounds, 1 and 3, identified as hits by the pharmacophore model, exhibited NOD2 antagonist activity and are the first small-molecule NOD2 modulators identified by virtual screening to date. The newly identified NOD2 antagonist scaffolds represent valuable starting points for further optimization.
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6
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Guzelj S, Bizjak Š, Jakopin Ž. Discovery of Desmuramylpeptide NOD2 Agonists with Single-Digit Nanomolar Potency. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:1270-1277. [PMID: 35978688 PMCID: PMC9377006 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.2c00121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Samo Guzelj
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Špela Bizjak
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Žiga Jakopin
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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7
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Khan F, Khanam R, Wasim Qasim M, Wang Y, Jiang Z. Improved Synthesis of D‐Isoglutamine: Rapid Access to Desmuramyl Analogues of Muramyl Dipeptide for the Activation of Intracellular NOD2 Receptor and Vaccine Adjuvant Applications. European J Org Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ejoc.202101170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Farooq‐Ahmad Khan
- Third World Center (TWC) for Chemical Sciences International Center for Chemical & Biological Sciences University of Karachi-75270 Pakistan
- H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry International Center for Chemical & Biological Sciences University of Karachi-75270 Pakistan
| | - Rahila Khanam
- Third World Center (TWC) for Chemical Sciences International Center for Chemical & Biological Sciences University of Karachi-75270 Pakistan
- H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry International Center for Chemical & Biological Sciences University of Karachi-75270 Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Wasim Qasim
- Third World Center (TWC) for Chemical Sciences International Center for Chemical & Biological Sciences University of Karachi-75270 Pakistan
- H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry International Center for Chemical & Biological Sciences University of Karachi-75270 Pakistan
| | - Yan Wang
- H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry International Center for Chemical & Biological Sciences University of Karachi-75270 Pakistan
| | - Zi‐Hua Jiang
- Department of Chemistry Lakehead University 955 Oliver Rd Thunder Bay Ontario P7B 5E1 Canada
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8
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Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Desmuramyl Dipeptides Modified by Adamantyl-1,2,3-triazole. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26216352. [PMID: 34770761 PMCID: PMC8587862 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26216352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Muramyl dipeptide (MDP) is the smallest peptidoglycan fragment able to trigger the immune response. Structural modification of MDP can lead to the preparation of analogs with improved immunostimulant properties, including desmuramyl peptides (DMPs). The aim of this work was to prepare the desmuramyl peptide (L-Ala-D-Glu)-containing adamantyl-triazole moiety and its mannosylated derivative in order to study their immunomodulatory activities in vivo. The adjuvant activity of the prepared compounds was evaluated in a murine model using ovalbumin as an antigen, and compared to the reference adjuvant ManAdDMP. The results showed that the introduction of the lipophilic adamantyl-triazole moiety at the C-terminus of L-Ala-D-Glu contributes to the immunostimulant activity of DMP, and that mannosylation of DMP modified with adamantyl-triazole causes the amplification of its immunostimulant activity.
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9
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Maršavelski A, Paurević M, Ribić R. Mannosylated adamantane-containing desmuramyl peptide recognition by the NOD2 receptor: a molecular dynamics study. Org Biomol Chem 2021; 19:7001-7012. [PMID: 34095941 DOI: 10.1039/d1ob00679g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2) is an intracellular receptor that recognizes the bacterial peptidoglycan fragment muramyl dipeptide (MDP). Our group has synthesized and biologically evaluated desmuramyl peptides containing adamantane and its mannose derivatives. The most active mannosylated derivative, ManAdDMP (Man-OCH2-d-(1-Ad)Gly-l-Ala-d-isoGln), is further characterized in silico in this study. We built intact model structures of the rabbit NOD2 protein, whose crystal structure lacks seven loops, and explored the binding of ManAdDMP. Two main binding sites for ManAdDMP are located within the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD) and C-terminal leucine-rich repeat (LRR) domains. Our analysis shows that the dipeptide isoGln moiety of ManAdDMP significantly contributes to the binding, whereas the mannose moiety interacts with modelled loop 7, which is a part of the NOD helical domain 2. The presented results point to the importance of loops 2 and 7 in ligand recognition that could be useful for further investigation of NOD2 activation/inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Maršavelski
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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10
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Guzelj S, Nabergoj S, Gobec M, Pajk S, Klančič V, Slütter B, Frkanec R, Štimac A, Šket P, Plavec J, Mlinarič-Raščan I, Jakopin Ž. Structural Fine-Tuning of Desmuramylpeptide NOD2 Agonists Defines Their In Vivo Adjuvant Activity. J Med Chem 2021; 64:7809-7838. [PMID: 34043358 PMCID: PMC8279416 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
![]()
We
report on the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of
a series of nucleotide-binding oligomerization-domain-containing protein
2 (NOD2) desmuramylpeptide agonists with improved in vitro and in vivo adjuvant properties. We identified
two promising compounds: 68, a potent nanomolar in vitro NOD2 agonist, and the more lipophilic 75, which shows superior adjuvant activity in vivo. Both compounds had immunostimulatory effects on peripheral blood
mononuclear cells at the protein and transcriptional levels, and augmented
dendritic-cell-mediated activation of T cells, while 75 additionally enhanced the cytotoxic activity of peripheral blood
mononuclear cells against malignant cells. The C18 lipophilic
tail of 75 is identified as a pivotal structural element
that confers in vivo adjuvant activity in conjunction
with a liposomal delivery system. Accordingly, liposome-encapsulated 75 showed promising adjuvant activity in mice, surpassing
that of muramyl dipeptide, while achieving a more balanced Th1/Th2
immune response, thus highlighting its potential as a vaccine adjuvant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samo Guzelj
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sanja Nabergoj
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Martina Gobec
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Stane Pajk
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Veronika Klančič
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Bram Slütter
- Div. BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ruža Frkanec
- Centre for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Adela Štimac
- Centre for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Primož Šket
- Slovenian NMR Centre, National Institute of Chemistry, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Janez Plavec
- Slovenian NMR Centre, National Institute of Chemistry, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Žiga Jakopin
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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11
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Cheng WC, You TY, Teo ZZ, Sayyad AA, Maharana J, Guo CW, Liang PH, Lin CS, Meng FC. Further Insights on Structural Modifications of Muramyl Dipeptides to Study the Human NOD2 Stimulating Activity. Chem Asian J 2020; 15:3836-3844. [PMID: 32975372 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202001003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A series of muramyl dipeptide (MDP) analogues with structural modifications at the C4 position of MurNAc and on the d-iso-glutamine (isoGln) residue of the peptide part were synthesized. The C4-diversification of MurNAc was conveniently achieved by using CuAAC click strategy to conjugate an azido muramyl dipeptide precursor with structurally diverse alkynes. d-Glutamic acid (Glu), replaced with isoGln, was applied for the structural diversity through esterification or amidation of the carboxylic acid. In total, 26 MDP analogues were synthesized and bio-evaluated for the study of human NOD2 stimulation activity in the innate immune response. Interestingly, MDP derivatives with an ester moiety are found to be more potent than reference compound MDP itself or MDP analogues containing an amide moiety. Among the varied lengths of the alkyl chain in ester derivatives, the MDP analogue bearing the d-glutamate dodecyl (C12) ester moiety showed the best NOD2 stimulation potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chieh Cheng
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road Sec. 2, Nangang District, Taipei, 115, Taiwan.,Department of Chemistry, National Cheng-Kung University, No.1, University Road, Tainan, 701, Taiwan.,Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiayi University, No. 300, Syuefu Road, Chiayi, 600, Taiwan.,Department of Medicinal and Applied Chemistry, Kaohsiung Medical University, No.100, Shin-Chuan 1st Road, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Yun You
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road Sec. 2, Nangang District, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
| | - Zhen-Zhuo Teo
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road Sec. 2, Nangang District, Taipei, 115, Taiwan.,School of Pharmacy, National Taiwan University, No. 17, Xuzhou Road, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Ashik A Sayyad
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road Sec. 2, Nangang District, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
| | - Jitendra Maharana
- Institute of Biological Chemistry Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road Sec. 2, Nangang District, Taipei, 115, Taiwan.,Taiwan International Graduate Program (TIGP), Chemical biology and molecular Biophysics (CBMB), Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road Sec. 2, Nangang District, Taipei, 115, Taiwan.,Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, National Tsing Hua University, No. 101, Sec. 2, Guangfu Rd., Hsinchu, 300, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Wei Guo
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road Sec. 2, Nangang District, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
| | - Pi-Hui Liang
- School of Pharmacy, National Taiwan University, No. 17, Xuzhou Road, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Shun Lin
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road Sec. 2, Nangang District, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
| | - Fan-Chun Meng
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road Sec. 2, Nangang District, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
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12
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Khan FA, Nasim N, Wang Y, Alhazmi A, Sanam M, Ul-Haq Z, Yalamati D, Ulanova M, Jiang ZH. Amphiphilic desmuramyl peptides for the rational design of new vaccine adjuvants: Synthesis, in vitro modulation of inflammatory response and molecular docking studies. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 209:112863. [PMID: 33032082 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2) is cytosolic surveillance receptor of the innate immune system capable of recognizing the bacterial and viral infections. Muramyl dipeptide (MDP) is the minimal immunoreactive unit of murein. NOD2 perceives MDP as pathogen-associated molecular pattern, thereby triggering an immune response with undesirable side-effects. Beneficial properties of MDP, such as pro-inflammatory characteristics for the rational design of new vaccine adjuvants, can be harnessed by strategically re-designing the molecule. In this work, a new class of amphiphilic desmuramylpeptides (DMPs) were synthesized by replacing the carbohydrate moiety (muramic acid) of the parent molecule with hydrophilic arenes. A lipophilic chain was also introduced at the C-terminus of dipeptide moiety (alanine-isoglutamine), while conserving its L-D configuration. These novel DMPs were found to set off the release of higher levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) than Murabutide, which is a well-known NOD2 agonist. Molecular docking studies indicate that all these DMPs bind well to NOD2 receptor with similar dock scores (binding energy) through a number of hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic/π interactions with several crucial residues of the receptor. More studies are needed to further assess their immunomodulatory therapeutic potential, as well as the possible involvement of NOD2 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farooq-Ahmad Khan
- H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical & Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, 75270, Pakistan.
| | - Nourina Nasim
- H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical & Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Yan Wang
- H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical & Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Alaa Alhazmi
- Medical Sciences Division, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, Ontario, P7B 5E1, Canada; Medical Laboratory Technology Department, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mehar Sanam
- H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical & Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Zaheer Ul-Haq
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Damayanthi Yalamati
- Alberta Research Chemicals Inc., 11421 Saskatchewan Drive, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2M9, Canada
| | - Marina Ulanova
- Medical Sciences Division, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, Ontario, P7B 5E1, Canada
| | - Zi-Hua Jiang
- Department of Chemistry, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, Ontario, P7B 5E1, Canada.
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13
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Guzelj S, Gobec M, Urbančič D, Mlinarič-Raščan I, Corsini E, Jakopin Ž. Structural features and functional activities of benzimidazoles as NOD2 antagonists. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 190:112089. [PMID: 32014680 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
NOD1 and NOD2 are pattern recognition receptors that have important roles in innate immune responses. Although their overactivation has been linked to a number of diseases, NOD2 in particular remains a virtually unexploited target in this respect, with only one structural class of antagonist reported. To gain insight into the structure-activity relationships of NOD2 antagonists, a series of novel analogs was designed and synthesized, and then screened for antagonist activity versus NOD2, and counter-screened versus NOD1. Compounds 32 and 38 were identified as potent and moderately selective NOD2 antagonists, and 33 and 42 as dual NOD1/NOD2 antagonists, with balanced activities against both targets in the low micromolar range. These data enable in-depth exploration of their structure-activity relationships and provide deeper understanding of the structural features required for NOD2 antagonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samo Guzelj
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Martina Gobec
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Dunja Urbančič
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Irena Mlinarič-Raščan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Emanuela Corsini
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Žiga Jakopin
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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14
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Jakopin Ž, Corsini E. THP-1 Cells and Pro-inflammatory Cytokine Production: An in Vitro Tool for Functional Characterization of NOD1/NOD2 Antagonists. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20174265. [PMID: 31480368 PMCID: PMC6747088 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20174265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
THP-1 cells express high levels of native functional nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 1 (NOD1), NOD2, and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) receptors, and have often been used for investigating the immunomodulatory effects of small molecules. We postulated that they would represent an ideal cell-based model for our study, the aim of which was to develop a new in vitro tool for functional characterization of NOD antagonists. NOD antagonists were initially screened for their effect on NOD agonist-induced interleukin-8 (IL-8) release. Next, we examined the extent to which the selected NOD antagonists block the NOD-TLR4 synergistic crosstalk by measuring the effect of NOD antagonism on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) secretion from doubly activated THP-1 cells. Overall, the results obtained indicate that pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion from THP-1 provides a valuable, simple and reproducible in vitro tool for functional characterization of NOD antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Žiga Jakopin
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Emanuela Corsini
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy
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15
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Ribić R, Stojković R, Milković L, Antica M, Cigler M, Tomić S. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of immunostimulating mannosylated desmuramyl peptides. Beilstein J Org Chem 2019; 15:1805-1814. [PMID: 31467600 PMCID: PMC6693374 DOI: 10.3762/bjoc.15.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Muramyl dipeptide is the minimal structure of peptidoglycan with adjuvant properties. Replacement of the N-acetylmuramyl moiety and increase of lipophilicity are important approaches in the preparation of muramyl dipeptide analogues with improved pharmacological properties. Mannose receptors present on immunocompetent cells are pattern-recognition receptors and by mannose ligands binding they affect the immune system. Here we present the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel mannosylated desmuramyl peptide derivatives. Mannose was coupled to dipeptides containing a lipophilic adamantane on N- or C-terminus through a glycolyl or hydroxyisobutyryl linker. Adjuvant activities of synthesized compounds were investigated in the mouse model using ovalbumin as an antigen. Their activities were compared to the previously described mannosylated adamantane-containing desmuramyl peptide and peptidoglycan monomer. Tested compounds exhibited adjuvant activity and the strongest enhancement of IgG production was stimulated by compound 21 (Man-OCH2-ᴅ-(1-Ad)Gly-ʟ-Ala-ᴅ-isoGln).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosana Ribić
- University Center Varaždin, University North, Jurja Križanića 31b, HR-42000 Varaždin, Croatia
| | - Ranko Stojković
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lidija Milković
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Marko Cigler
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University Munich, Lichtenbergstraße 4, D-85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Srđanka Tomić
- Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Horvatovac 102a, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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16
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Nabergoj S, Mlinarič-Raščan I, Jakopin Ž. Harnessing the untapped potential of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain ligands for cancer immunotherapy. Med Res Rev 2018; 39:1447-1484. [PMID: 30548868 PMCID: PMC6767550 DOI: 10.1002/med.21557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In the last decade, cancer immunotherapy has emerged as an effective alternative to traditional therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation. In contrast to the latter, cancer immunotherapy has the potential to distinguish between cancer and healthy cells, and thus to avoid severe and intolerable side‐effects, since the cancer cells are effectively eliminated by stimulated immune cells. The cytosolic nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domains 1 and 2 receptors (NOD1 and NOD2) are important components of the innate immune system and constitute interesting targets in terms of strengthening the immune response against cancer cells. Many NOD ligands have been synthesized, in particular NOD2 agonists that exhibit favorable immunostimulatory and anticancer activity. Among them, mifamurtide has already been approved in Europe by the European Medicine Agency for treating patients with osteosarcoma in combination with chemotherapy after complete surgical removal of the primary tumor. This review is focused on NOD receptors as promising targets in cancer immunotherapy as well as summarizing current knowledge of the various NOD ligands exhibiting antitumor and even antimetastatic activity in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanja Nabergoj
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Žiga Jakopin
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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17
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Ten-membered rings as key interaction motifs in folding of desmuramyl di-, tri-, and tetrapeptides. Struct Chem 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11224-018-1234-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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18
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A cell-based test system for the assessment of pharmacokinetics of NOD1 and NOD2 receptor agonists. Int Immunopharmacol 2018; 63:94-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2018.07.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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19
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Gobec M, Tomašič T, Štimac A, Frkanec R, Trontelj J, Anderluh M, Mlinarič-Raščan I, Jakopin Ž. Discovery of Nanomolar Desmuramylpeptide Agonists of the Innate Immune Receptor Nucleotide-Binding Oligomerization Domain-Containing Protein 2 (NOD2) Possessing Immunostimulatory Properties. J Med Chem 2018. [PMID: 29543461 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b01052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Muramyl dipeptide (MDP), a fragment of bacterial peptidoglycan, has long been known as the smallest fragment possessing adjuvant activity, on the basis of its agonistic action on the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-containing protein 2 (NOD2). There is a pressing need for novel adjuvants, and NOD2 agonists provide an untapped source of potential candidates. Here, we report the design, synthesis, and characterization of a series of novel acyl tripeptides. A pivotal structural element for molecular recognition by NOD2 has been identified, culminating in the discovery of compound 9, the most potent desmuramylpeptide NOD2 agonist to date. Compound 9 augmented pro-inflammatory cytokine release from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells in synergy with lipopolysaccharide. Furthermore, it was able to induce ovalbumin-specific IgG titers in a mouse model of adjuvancy. These findings provide deeper insights into the structural requirements of desmuramylpeptides for NOD2-activation and highlight the potential use of NOD2 agonists as adjuvants for vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Gobec
- Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Ljubljana , Aškerčeva 7 , SI-1000 Ljubljana , Slovenia
| | - Tihomir Tomašič
- Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Ljubljana , Aškerčeva 7 , SI-1000 Ljubljana , Slovenia
| | - Adela Štimac
- Centre for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology , University of Zagreb , Rockefellerova 10 , 10000 Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Ruža Frkanec
- Centre for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology , University of Zagreb , Rockefellerova 10 , 10000 Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Jurij Trontelj
- Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Ljubljana , Aškerčeva 7 , SI-1000 Ljubljana , Slovenia
| | - Marko Anderluh
- Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Ljubljana , Aškerčeva 7 , SI-1000 Ljubljana , Slovenia
| | - Irena Mlinarič-Raščan
- Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Ljubljana , Aškerčeva 7 , SI-1000 Ljubljana , Slovenia
| | - Žiga Jakopin
- Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Ljubljana , Aškerčeva 7 , SI-1000 Ljubljana , Slovenia
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20
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NOD1 and NOD2: Molecular targets in prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. Int Immunopharmacol 2017; 54:385-400. [PMID: 29207344 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2017.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Revised: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD) 1 and NOD2 are pattern-recognition receptors responsible for sensing fragments of bacterial peptidoglycan known as muropeptides. Stimulation of innate immunity by systemic or local administration of NOD1 and NOD2 agonists is an attractive means to prevent and treat infectious diseases. In this review, we discuss novel data concerning structural features of selective and non-selective (dual) NOD1 and NOD2 agonists, main signaling pathways and biological effects induced by NOD1 and NOD2 stimulation, including induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, type I interferons and antimicrobial peptides, induction of autophagy, alterations of metabolism. We also discuss interactions between NOD1/NOD2 and Toll-like receptor agonists in terms of synergy and cross-tolerance. Finally, we review available animal data on the role of NOD1 and NOD2 in protection against infections, and discuss how these data could be applied in human infectious diseases.
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21
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Wang S, Yang J, Li X, Liu Z, Wu Y, Si G, Tao Y, Zhao N, Hu X, Ma Y, Liu G. Discovery of 1,4-Benzodiazepine-2,5-dione (BZD) Derivatives as Dual Nucleotide Binding Oligomerization Domain Containing 1/2 (NOD1/NOD2) Antagonists Sensitizing Paclitaxel (PTX) To Suppress Lewis Lung Carcinoma (LLC) Growth in Vivo. J Med Chem 2017; 60:5162-5192. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b00608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Suhua Wang
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 2A Nanwei Road, Xicheng District, Beijing 100050, P. R. China
| | - Jingshu Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Haidian District, Beijing 100084, P. R. China
| | - Xueyuan Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Haidian District, Beijing 100084, P. R. China
| | - Zijie Liu
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 2A Nanwei Road, Xicheng District, Beijing 100050, P. R. China
| | - Youzhen Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Haidian District, Beijing 100084, P. R. China
| | - Guangxu Si
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Haidian District, Beijing 100084, P. R. China
| | - Yiran Tao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Haidian District, Beijing 100084, P. R. China
| | - Nan Zhao
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 2A Nanwei Road, Xicheng District, Beijing 100050, P. R. China
| | - Xiao Hu
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 2A Nanwei Road, Xicheng District, Beijing 100050, P. R. China
| | - Yao Ma
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 2A Nanwei Road, Xicheng District, Beijing 100050, P. R. China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Haidian District, Beijing 100084, P. R. China
| | - Gang Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Haidian District, Beijing 100084, P. R. China
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22
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Keček Plešec K, Urbančič D, Gobec M, Pekošak A, Tomašič T, Anderluh M, Mlinarič-Raščan I, Jakopin Ž. Identification of indole scaffold-based dual inhibitors of NOD1 and NOD2. Bioorg Med Chem 2016; 24:5221-5234. [PMID: 27601373 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2016.08.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Revised: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
NOD1 and NOD2 are important members of the pattern recognition receptor family and play a crucial role within the context of innate immunity. However, overactivation of NODs, especially of NOD1, has also been implicated in a number of diseases. Surprisingly, NOD1 remains a virtually unexploited target in this respect. To gain additional insight into the structure-activity relationships of NOD1 inhibitors, a series of novel analogs has been designed and synthesized and then screened for their NOD1-inhibitory activity. Selected compounds were also investigated for their NOD2-inhibitory activity. Two compounds 4 and 15, were identified as potent mixed inhibitors of NOD1 and NOD2, displaying a balanced inhibitory activity on both targets in the low micromolar range. The results obtained have enabled a deeper understanding of the structural requirements for NOD1 and NOD2 inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaja Keček Plešec
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Dunja Urbančič
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Martina Gobec
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Aleksandra Pekošak
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tihomir Tomašič
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Marko Anderluh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Irena Mlinarič-Raščan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Žiga Jakopin
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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