1
|
Grossi G, Scarano N, Musumeci F, Tonelli M, Kanov E, Carbone A, Fossa P, Gainetdinov RR, Cichero E, Schenone S. Discovery of a Novel Chemo-Type for TAAR1 Agonism via Molecular Modeling. Molecules 2024; 29:1739. [PMID: 38675561 PMCID: PMC11052455 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29081739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The search for novel effective TAAR1 ligands continues to draw great attention due to the wide range of pharmacological applications related to TAAR1 targeting. Herein, molecular docking studies of known TAAR1 ligands, characterized by an oxazoline core, have been performed in order to identify novel promising chemo-types for the discovery of more active TAAR1 agonists. In particular, the oxazoline-based compound S18616 has been taken as a reference compound for the computational study, leading to the development of quite flat and conformationally locked ligands. The choice of a "Y-shape" conformation was suggested for the design of TAAR1 ligands, interacting with the protein cavity delimited by ASP103 and aromatic residues such as PHE186, PHE195, PHE268, and PHE267. The obtained results allowed us to preliminary in silico screen an in-house series of pyrimidinone-benzimidazoles (1a-10a) as a novel scaffold to target TAAR1. Combined ligand-based (LBCM) and structure based (SBCM) computational methods suggested the biological evaluation of compounds 1a-10a, leading to the identification of derivatives 1a-3a (hTAAR1 EC50 = 526.3-657.4 nM) as promising novel TAAR1 agonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Grossi
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.G.); (N.S.); (F.M.); (M.T.); (A.C.); (P.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Naomi Scarano
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.G.); (N.S.); (F.M.); (M.T.); (A.C.); (P.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Francesca Musumeci
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.G.); (N.S.); (F.M.); (M.T.); (A.C.); (P.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Michele Tonelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.G.); (N.S.); (F.M.); (M.T.); (A.C.); (P.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Evgeny Kanov
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia (R.R.G.)
- St. Petersburg University Hospital, St. Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anna Carbone
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.G.); (N.S.); (F.M.); (M.T.); (A.C.); (P.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Paola Fossa
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.G.); (N.S.); (F.M.); (M.T.); (A.C.); (P.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Raul R. Gainetdinov
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia (R.R.G.)
- St. Petersburg University Hospital, St. Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Elena Cichero
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.G.); (N.S.); (F.M.); (M.T.); (A.C.); (P.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Silvia Schenone
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.G.); (N.S.); (F.M.); (M.T.); (A.C.); (P.F.); (S.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cichero E, Francesconi V, Casini B, Casale M, Kanov E, Gerasimov AS, Sukhanov I, Savchenko A, Espinoza S, Gainetdinov RR, Tonelli M. Discovery of Guanfacine as a Novel TAAR1 Agonist: A Combination Strategy through Molecular Modeling Studies and Biological Assays. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1632. [PMID: 38004497 PMCID: PMC10674299 DOI: 10.3390/ph16111632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) is an attractive target for the design of innovative drugs to be applied in diverse pharmacological settings. Due to a non-negligible structural similarity with endogenous ligands, most of the agonists developed so far resulted in being affected by a low selectivity for TAAR1 with respect to other monoaminergic G protein-coupled receptors, like the adrenoreceptors. This study utilized comparative molecular docking studies and quantitative-structure activity relationship (QSAR) analyses to unveil key structural differences between TAAR1 and alpha2-adrenoreceptor (α2-ADR), with the aim to design novel TAAR1 agonists characterized by a higher selectivity profile and reduced off-target effects. While the presence of hydrophobic motives is encouraged towards both the two receptors, the introduction of polar/positively charged groups and the ligand conformation deeply affect the TAAR1 or α2-ADR putative selectivity. These computational methods allowed the identification of the α2A-ADR agonist guanfacine as an attractive TAAR1-targeting lead compound, demonstrating nanomolar activity in vitro. In vivo exploration of the efficacy of guanfacine showed that it is able to decrease the locomotor activity of dopamine transporter knockout (DAT-KO) rats. Therefore, guanfacine can be considered as an interesting template molecule worthy of structural optimization. The dual activity of guanfacine on both α2-ADR and TAAR1 signaling and the related crosstalk between the two pathways will deserve more in-depth investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Cichero
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.C.); (V.F.); (B.C.)
| | - Valeria Francesconi
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.C.); (V.F.); (B.C.)
| | - Beatrice Casini
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.C.); (V.F.); (B.C.)
| | - Monica Casale
- Section of Chemistry and Food and Pharmaceutical Technologies, University of Genoa, 16148 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Evgeny Kanov
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia; (E.K.); (A.S.G.); (R.R.G.)
- St. Petersburg University Hospital, St. Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Andrey S. Gerasimov
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia; (E.K.); (A.S.G.); (R.R.G.)
| | - Ilya Sukhanov
- Valdman Institute of Pharmacology, Pavlov First St. Petersburg State Medical University, 197022 St. Petersburg, Russia; (I.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Artem Savchenko
- Valdman Institute of Pharmacology, Pavlov First St. Petersburg State Medical University, 197022 St. Petersburg, Russia; (I.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Stefano Espinoza
- Department of Health Sciences and Research Center on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy;
- Central RNA Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Raul R. Gainetdinov
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia; (E.K.); (A.S.G.); (R.R.G.)
- St. Petersburg University Hospital, St. Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Michele Tonelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.C.); (V.F.); (B.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Abbotto E, Casini B, Piacente F, Scarano N, Cerri E, Tonelli M, Astigiano C, Millo E, Sturla L, Bruzzone S, Cichero E. Novel Thiazole-Based SIRT2 Inhibitors Discovered via Molecular Modelling Studies and Enzymatic Assays. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1316. [PMID: 37765125 PMCID: PMC10535842 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091316] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, the development of sirtuin small molecule inhibitors (SIRTIs) has been gaining attention for the treatment of different cancer types, but also to contrast neurodegenerative disease, diabetes, and autoimmune syndromes. In the search for SIRT2 modulators, the availability of several X-crystallographic data regarding SIRT2-ligand complexes has allowed for setting up a structure-based study, which is herein presented. A set of 116 SIRT2 inhibitors featuring different chemical structures has been collected from the literature and used for molecular docking studies involving 4RMG and 5MAT PDB codes. The information found highlights key contacts with the SIRT2 binding pocket such as Van der Waals and π-π stacking with Tyr104, Phe119, Phe234, and Phe235 in order to achieve high inhibitory ability values. Following the preliminary virtual screening studies, a small in-house library of compounds (1a-7a), previously investigated as putative HSP70 inhibitors, was described to guide the search for dual-acting HSP70/SIRT2 inhibitors. Biological and enzymatic assays validated the whole procedure. Compounds 2a and 7a were found to be the most promising derivatives herein proposed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Abbotto
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.A.); (F.P.); (E.C.); (C.A.); (E.M.); (L.S.)
| | - Beatrice Casini
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (B.C.); (N.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Francesco Piacente
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.A.); (F.P.); (E.C.); (C.A.); (E.M.); (L.S.)
| | - Naomi Scarano
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (B.C.); (N.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Elena Cerri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.A.); (F.P.); (E.C.); (C.A.); (E.M.); (L.S.)
| | - Michele Tonelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (B.C.); (N.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Cecilia Astigiano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.A.); (F.P.); (E.C.); (C.A.); (E.M.); (L.S.)
| | - Enrico Millo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.A.); (F.P.); (E.C.); (C.A.); (E.M.); (L.S.)
| | - Laura Sturla
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.A.); (F.P.); (E.C.); (C.A.); (E.M.); (L.S.)
| | - Santina Bruzzone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (E.A.); (F.P.); (E.C.); (C.A.); (E.M.); (L.S.)
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Elena Cichero
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (B.C.); (N.S.); (M.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Li G, Du Z, Shen P, Zhang J. Novel MeON-glycosides of ursolic acid: Synthesis, antitumor evaluation, and mechanism studies. Fitoterapia 2023; 169:105595. [PMID: 37355050 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2023.105595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Ursolic acid (UA) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid widely found in in medicinal plants, edible plants, fruits, and flowers. The great interest in this bioactive compound is related to the positive effects in human health. However, its limited solubility, moderate biological activity and poor bioavailability limit the potential and further applications of UA. Here, we explored the efficacy of MeON-Glycosides of UA in inhibiting tumor cell proliferation. A number of compounds showed significant antitumor activity against tested five cancer cell lines. Among them, compound 2a exhibited the most potent activity against HepG2 cells with IC50 values of 3.1 ± 0.5 μM. Especially, compound 2a could induce HepG2 cells apoptosis and reduce mitochondrial membrane potential. Western blot analysis showed that compound 2a up-regulated Bax, cleaved caspase-3/9, cleaved PARP levels and down-regulated Bcl-2 level of HepG2 cells. These results indicated that compound 2a could obviously induce the apoptosis of HepG2 cells. At the same time, compound 2a significantly decreased the expression of p-AKT and p-mTOR, which indicated that compound 2a might exert its cytotoxic effect by targeting PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Moreover, the in silico ADME predictions showed that compound 2a has improved water solubility and other properties. Thus, compound 2a may be a promising antitumor candidate, which may be potentially used to prevent or treat cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guolong Li
- Co-construction Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine Resources Industrialization by Shaanxi & Education Ministry, Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of New Drugs and Chinese Medicine Foundation Research, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, PR China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Zhichao Du
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Pingping Shen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Scarano N, Abbotto E, Musumeci F, Salis A, Brullo C, Fossa P, Schenone S, Bruzzone S, Cichero E. Virtual Screening Combined with Enzymatic Assays to Guide the Discovery of Novel SIRT2 Inhibitors. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119363. [PMID: 37298312 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Sirtuin isoform 2 (SIRT2) is one of the seven sirtuin isoforms present in humans, being classified as class III histone deacetylases (HDACs). Based on the high sequence similarity among SIRTs, the identification of isoform selective modulators represents a challenging task, especially for the high conservation observed in the catalytic site. Efforts in rationalizing selectivity based on key residues belonging to the SIRT2 enzyme were accompanied in 2015 by the publication of the first X-ray crystallographic structure of the potent and selective SIRT2 inhibitor SirReal2. The subsequent studies led to different experimental data regarding this protein in complex with further different chemo-types as SIRT2 inhibitors. Herein, we reported preliminary Structure-Based Virtual Screening (SBVS) studies using a commercially available library of compounds to identify novel scaffolds for the design of new SIRT2 inhibitors. Biochemical assays involving five selected compounds allowed us to highlight the most effective chemical features supporting the observed SIRT2 inhibitory ability. This information guided the following in silico evaluation and in vitro testing of further compounds from in-house libraries of pyrazolo-pyrimidine derivatives towards novel SIRT2 inhibitors (1-5). The final results indicated the effectiveness of this scaffold for the design of promising and selective SIRT2 inhibitors, featuring the highest inhibition among the tested compounds, and validating the applied strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Scarano
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Elena Abbotto
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Musumeci
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Annalisa Salis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Chiara Brullo
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Paola Fossa
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Silvia Schenone
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Santina Bruzzone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Elena Cichero
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Asproni B, Catto M, Loriga G, Murineddu G, Corona P, Purgatorio R, Cichero E, Fossa P, Scarano N, Martínez AL, Brea J, Pinna GA. Novel thienocycloalkylpyridazinones as useful scaffolds for acetylcholinesterase inhibition and serotonin 5-HT6 receptor interaction. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 84:117256. [PMID: 37003157 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
A library of eighteen thienocycloalkylpyridazinones was synthesized for human acetylcholinesterase (hAChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (hBChE) inhibition and serotonin 5-HT6 receptor subtype interaction by following a multitarget-directed ligand approach (MTDL), as a suitable strategy for treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The novel compounds featured a tricyclic scaffold, namely thieno[3,2-h]cinnolinone, thienocyclopentapyridazinone and thienocycloheptapyridazinone, connected through alkyl chains of variable length to proper amine moieties, most often represented by N-benzylpiperazine or 1-(phenylsulfonyl)-4-(piperazin-1-ylmethyl)-1H-indole as structural elements addressing AChE and 5-HT6 interaction, respectively. Our study highlighted the versatility of thienocycloalkylpyridazinones as useful architectures for AChE interaction, with several N-benzylpiperazine-based analogues emerging as potent and selective hAChE inhibitors with IC50 in the 0.17-1.23 μM range, exhibiting low to poor activity for hBChE (IC50 = 4.13-9.70 μM). The introduction of 5-HT6 structural moiety phenylsulfonylindole in place of N-benzylpiperazine, in tandem with a pentamethylene linker, gave potent 5-HT6 thieno[3,2-h]cinnolinone and thienocyclopentapyridazinone-based ligands both displaying hAChE inhibition in the low micromolar range and unappreciable activity towards hBChE. While docking studies provided a rational structural explanation for AChE/BChE enzyme and 5-HT6 receptor interaction, in silico prediction of ADME properties of tested compounds suggested further optimization for development of such compounds in the field of MTDL for AD.
Collapse
|
7
|
Trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) agonism as a new treatment strategy for schizophrenia and related disorders. Trends Neurosci 2023; 46:60-74. [PMID: 36369028 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2022.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia remains a major health burden, highlighting the need for new treatment approaches. We consider the potential for targeting the trace amine (TA) system. We first review genetic, preclinical, and clinical evidence for the role of TAs in the aetiopathology of schizophrenia. We then consider how the localisation and function of the trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) position it to modulate key brain circuits for the disorder. Studies in rodents using Taar1 knockout (TAAR1-KO) and overexpression models show that TAAR1 agonism inhibits midbrain dopaminergic and serotonergic activity, and enhances prefrontal glutamatergic function. TAAR1 agonists also reduce hyperactivity, attenuate prepulse inhibition (PPI) deficits and social withdrawal, and improve cognitive measures in animal models. Finally, we consider findings from clinical trials of TAAR1 agonists and how this approach may address psychotic and negative symptoms, tolerability issues, and other unmet needs in the treatment of schizophrenia.
Collapse
|
8
|
Chemical composition, antibacterial activity and antioxidant activity of Citrus bergamia essential oil: Molecular docking simulations. FOOD BIOSCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2022.102123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
9
|
Krasavin M, Peshkov AA, Lukin A, Komarova K, Vinogradova L, Smirnova D, Kanov EV, Kuvarzin SR, Murtazina RZ, Efimova EV, Gureev M, Onokhin K, Zakharov K, Gainetdinov RR. Discovery and In Vivo Efficacy of Trace Amine-Associated Receptor 1 (TAAR1) Agonist 4-(2-Aminoethyl)- N-(3,5-dimethylphenyl)piperidine-1-carboxamide Hydrochloride (AP163) for the Treatment of Psychotic Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911579. [PMID: 36232878 PMCID: PMC9569940 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Starting from a screening hit, a set of analogs was synthesized based on a 4-(2-aminoethyl)piperidine core not associated previously with trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) modulation in the literature. Several structure–activity relationship generalizations have been drawn from the observed data, some of which were corroborated by molecular modeling against the crystal structure of TAAR1. The four most active compounds (EC50 for TAAR1 agonistic activity ranging from 0.033 to 0.112 μM) were nominated for evaluation in vivo. The dopamine transporter knockout (DAT-KO) rat model of dopamine-dependent hyperlocomotion was used to evaluate compounds’ efficacy in vivo. Out of four compounds, only one compound (AP163) displayed a statistically significant and dose-dependent reduction in hyperlocomotion in DAT-KO rats. As such, compound AP163 represents a viable lead for further preclinical characterization as a potential novel treatment option for disorders associated with increased dopaminergic function, such as schizophrenia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail Krasavin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
- Correspondence: (M.K.); (R.R.G.)
| | - Anatoly A. Peshkov
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Alexey Lukin
- Lomonosov Institute of Fine Chemical Technologies, MIREA—Russian Technological University, Moscow 119454, Russia
| | - Kristina Komarova
- Lomonosov Institute of Fine Chemical Technologies, MIREA—Russian Technological University, Moscow 119454, Russia
| | - Lyubov Vinogradova
- Lomonosov Institute of Fine Chemical Technologies, MIREA—Russian Technological University, Moscow 119454, Russia
| | - Daria Smirnova
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Evgeny V. Kanov
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Savelii R. Kuvarzin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Ramilya Z. Murtazina
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Evgeniya V. Efimova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Maxim Gureev
- Center of Bio- and Chemoinformatics, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Kirill Onokhin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Konstantin Zakharov
- Accellena Research and Development Inc., 88A Sredniy pr. V.O., Saint Petersburg 199106, Russia
| | - Raul R. Gainetdinov
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
- Correspondence: (M.K.); (R.R.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Liao S, Pino MJ, Deleon C, Lindner-Jackson M, Wu C. Interaction analyses of hTAAR1 and mTAAR1 with antagonist EPPTB. Life Sci 2022; 300:120553. [PMID: 35452636 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) plays a critical role in regulating monoaminergic activity. EPPTB is the only known selective potent antagonist of the mouse (m) TAAR1 presently, while it was shown to be weak at antagonizing human (h) TAAR1. The lack of high-resolution structure of TAAR1 hinders the understanding of the differences in the interaction modes between EPPTB and m/hTARR1. The purpose of this study is to probe these interaction modes using homology modeling, molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and molecular mechanics-generalized Born surface area (MM-GBSA) binding energy calculations. Eight populated conformers of hTAAR1-EPPTB complex were observed during the MD simulations and could be used in structure-based virtual screening in future. The MM-GBSA binding energy of hTAAR1-EPPTB complex (-96.5 kcal/mol) is larger than that of mTAAR1-EPPTB complex (-106.7 kcal/mol), which is consistent with the experimental finding that EPPTB has weaker binding affinity to hTAAR1. The several residues in binding site of hTAAR1 (F1544.56, T1945.42 and I2907.39) are different from these of mTAAR1 (Y1534.56, A1935.42 and Y2877.39), which might contribute to the binding affinity difference. Our docking analysis on another hTAAR1 antagonist Compound 3 has found that 1). this compound binds in different pockets of our mTAAR1 and hTAAR1 homology models with a slightly stronger binding affinity to hTAAR1; 2). both antagonists bind to a very similar pocket of hTAAR1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siyan Liao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Michael James Pino
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Rd, Glassboro, NJ 08028, United States of America
| | - Catherine Deleon
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Rd, Glassboro, NJ 08028, United States of America
| | - Maurice Lindner-Jackson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Rd, Glassboro, NJ 08028, United States of America
| | - Chun Wu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Rd, Glassboro, NJ 08028, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bon C, Chern TR, Cichero E, O’Brien TE, Gustincich S, Gainetdinov RR, Espinoza S. Discovery of Novel Trace Amine-Associated Receptor 5 (TAAR5) Antagonists Using a Deep Convolutional Neural Network. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063127. [PMID: 35328548 PMCID: PMC8954676 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Trace amine-associated receptor 5 (TAAR5) is a G protein-coupled receptor that belongs to the TAARs family (TAAR1-TAAR9). TAAR5 is expressed in the olfactory epithelium and is responsible for sensing 3-methylamine (TMA). However, recent studies showed that TAAR5 is also expressed in the limbic brain regions and is involved in the regulation of emotional behaviour and adult neurogenesis, suggesting that TAAR5 antagonism may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for anxiety and depression. We used the AtomNet® model, the first deep learning neural network for structure-based drug discovery, to identify putative TAAR5 ligands and tested them in an in vitro BRET assay. We found two mTAAR5 antagonists with low to submicromolar activity that are able to inhibit the cAMP production induced by TMA. Moreover, these two compounds also inhibited the mTAAR5 downstream signalling, such as the phosphorylation of CREB and ERK. These two hits exhibit drug-like properties and could be used to further develop more potent TAAR5 ligands with putative anxiolytic and antidepressant activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Bon
- Central RNA Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.B.); (S.G.)
| | - Ting-Rong Chern
- Atomwise Inc., San Francisco, CA 94103, USA; (T.-R.C.); (T.E.O.)
| | - Elena Cichero
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
| | | | - Stefano Gustincich
- Central RNA Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.B.); (S.G.)
| | - Raul R. Gainetdinov
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, Saint-Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia;
- Saint-Petersburg University Hospital, Saint-Petersburg State University, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Stefano Espinoza
- Central RNA Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 16132 Genova, Italy; (C.B.); (S.G.)
- Department of Health Sciences and Research, Center on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases (CAAD), University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO), 28100 Novara, Italy
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Barbieri F, Bosio AG, Pattarozzi A, Tonelli M, Bajetto A, Verduci I, Cianci F, Cannavale G, Palloni LMG, Francesconi V, Thellung S, Fiaschi P, Mazzetti S, Schenone S, Balboni B, Girotto S, Malatesta P, Daga A, Zona G, Mazzanti M, Florio T. Chloride intracellular channel 1 activity is not required for glioblastoma development but its inhibition dictates glioma stem cell responsivity to novel biguanide derivatives. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2022; 41:53. [PMID: 35135603 PMCID: PMC8822754 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02213-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Chloride intracellular channel-1 (CLIC1) activity controls glioblastoma proliferation. Metformin exerts antitumor effects in glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) inhibiting CLIC1 activity, but its low potency hampers its translation in clinical settings.
Methods
We synthesized a small library of novel biguanide-based compounds that were tested as antiproliferative agents for GSCs derived from human glioblastomas, in vitro using 2D and 3D cultures and in vivo in the zebrafish model. Compounds were compared to metformin for both potency and efficacy in the inhibition of GSC proliferation in vitro (MTT, Trypan blue exclusion assays, and EdU labeling) and in vivo (zebrafish model), migration (Boyden chamber assay), invasiveness (Matrigel invasion assay), self-renewal (spherogenesis assay), and CLIC1 activity (electrophysiology recordings), as well as for the absence of off-target toxicity (effects on normal stem cells and toxicity for zebrafish and chick embryos).
Results
We identified Q48 and Q54 as two novel CLIC1 blockers, characterized by higher antiproliferative potency than metformin in vitro, in both GSC 2D cultures and 3D spheroids. Q48 and Q54 also impaired GSC self-renewal, migration and invasion, and displayed low systemic in vivo toxicity. Q54 reduced in vivo proliferation of GSCs xenotransplanted in zebrafish hindbrain. Target specificity was confirmed by recombinant CLIC1 binding experiments using microscale thermophoresis approach. Finally, we characterized GSCs from GBMs spontaneously expressing low CLIC1 protein, demonstrating their ability to grow in vivo and to retain stem-like phenotype and functional features in vitro. In these GSCs, Q48 and Q54 displayed reduced potency and efficacy as antiproliferative agents as compared to high CLIC1-expressing tumors. However, in 3D cultures, metformin and Q48 (but not Q54) inhibited proliferation, which was dependent on the inhibition dihydrofolate reductase activity.
Conclusions
These data highlight that, while CLIC1 is dispensable for the development of a subset of glioblastomas, it acts as a booster of proliferation in the majority of these tumors and its functional expression is required for biguanide antitumor class-effects. In particular, the biguanide-based derivatives Q48 and Q54, represent the leads to develop novel compounds endowed with better pharmacological profiles than metformin, to act as CLIC1-blockers for the treatment of CLIC1-expressing glioblastomas, in a precision medicine approach.
Collapse
|
13
|
Heffernan MLR, Herman LW, Brown S, Jones PG, Shao L, Hewitt MC, Campbell JE, Dedic N, Hopkins SC, Koblan KS, Xie L. Ulotaront: A TAAR1 Agonist for the Treatment of Schizophrenia. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:92-98. [PMID: 35047111 PMCID: PMC8762745 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.1c00527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
![]()
Ulotaront (SEP-363856)
is a trace-amine associated receptor 1 (TAAR1)
agonist with 5-HT1A receptor agonist activity in Phase 3 clinical
development, with FDA Breakthrough Therapy Designation, for the treatment
of schizophrenia. TAAR1 is a G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that
is expressed in cortical, limbic, and midbrain monoaminergic regions.
It is activated by endogenous trace amines, and is believed to play
an important role in modulating dopaminergic, serotonergic, and glutamatergic
circuitry. TAAR1 agonism data are reported herein for ulotaront and
its analogues in comparison to endogenous TAAR1 agonists. In addition,
a human TAAR1 homology model was built around ulotaront to identify
key interactions and attempt to better understand the scaffold-specific
TAAR1 agonism structure–activity relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lee W. Herman
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc, Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Scott Brown
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc, Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Philip G. Jones
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc, Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Liming Shao
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc, Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Michael C. Hewitt
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc, Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - John E. Campbell
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc, Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Nina Dedic
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc, Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Seth C. Hopkins
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc, Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Kenneth S. Koblan
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc, Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Linghong Xie
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc, Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cichero E, Calautti A, Francesconi V, Tonelli M, Schenone S, Fossa P. Probing In Silico the Benzimidazole Privileged Scaffold for the Development of Drug-like Anti-RSV Agents. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14121307. [PMID: 34959708 PMCID: PMC8707824 DOI: 10.3390/ph14121307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting the fusion (F) protein has been recognized as a fruitful strategy for the development of anti-RSV agents. Despite the considerable efforts so far put into the development of RSV F protein inhibitors, the discovery of adequate therapeutics for the treatment of RSV infections is still awaiting a positive breakthrough. Several benzimidazole-containing derivatives have been discovered and evaluated in clinical trials, with only some of them being endowed with a promising pharmacokinetic profile. In this context, we applied a computational study based on a careful analysis of a number of X-ray crystallographic data of the RSV F protein, in the presence of different clinical candidates. A deepen comparison of the related electrostatic features and H-bonding motifs allowed us to pave the way for the following molecular dynamic simulation of JNJ-53718678 and then to perform docking studies of the in-house library of potent benzimidazole-containing anti-RSV agents. The results revealed not only the deep flexibility of the biological target but also the most relevant and recurring key contacts supporting the benzimidazole F protein inhibitor ability. Among them, several hydrophobic interactions and π-π stacking involving F140 and F488 proved to be mandatory, as well as H-bonding to D486. Specific requirements turning in RSV F protein binding ability were also explored thanks to structure-based pharmacophore analysis. Along with this, in silico prediction of absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion (ADME) properties, and also of possible off-target events was performed. The results highlighted once more that the benzimidazole ring represents a privileged scaffold whose properties deserve to be further investigated for the rational design of novel and orally bioavailable anti-RSV agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Cichero
- Correspondence: (E.C.); (M.T.); Tel.: +39-010-353-8350 (E.C.); +39-010-353-8378 (M.T.)
| | | | | | - Michele Tonelli
- Correspondence: (E.C.); (M.T.); Tel.: +39-010-353-8350 (E.C.); +39-010-353-8378 (M.T.)
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sabbadini R, Pesce E, Parodi A, Mustorgi E, Bruzzone S, Pedemonte N, Casale M, Millo E, Cichero E. Probing Allosteric Hsp70 Inhibitors by Molecular Modelling Studies to Expedite the Development of Novel Combined F508del CFTR Modulators. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14121296. [PMID: 34959696 PMCID: PMC8709398 DOI: 10.3390/ph14121296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by different mutations related to the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator protein (CFTR), with F508del being the most common. Pioneering the development of CFTR modulators, thanks to the development of effective correctors or potentiators, more recent studies deeply encouraged the administration of triple combination therapeutics. However, combinations of molecules interacting with other proteins involved in functionality of the CFTR channel recently arose as a promising approach to address a large rescue of F508del-CFTR. In this context, the design of compounds properly targeting the molecular chaperone Hsp70, such as the allosteric inhibitor MKT-077, proved to be effective for the development of indirect CFTR modulators, endowed with ability to amplify the accumulation of the rescued protein. Herein we performed structure-based studies of a number of allosteric HSP70 inhibitors, considering the recent X-ray crystallographic structure of the human enzyme. This allowed us to point out the main interaction supporting the binding mode of MKT-077, as well as of the related analogues. In particular, cation-π and π-π stacking with the conserve residue Tyr175 deeply stabilized inhibitor binding at the HSP70 cavity. Molecular docking studies had been followed by QSAR analysis and then by virtual screening of aminoaryl thiazoles (I-IIIa) as putative HSP70 inhibitors. Their effectiveness as CFTR modulators has been verified by biological assays, in combination with VX-809, whose positive results confirmed the reliability of the whole applied computational method. Along with this, the "in-silico" prediction of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties highlighted, once more, that AATs may represent a chemical class to be further investigated for the rational design of novel combination of compounds for CF treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Sabbadini
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Emanuela Pesce
- UOC Genetica Medica, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via Gerolamo Gaslini, 5, 16147 Genova, Italy; (E.P.); (N.P.)
| | - Alice Parodi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (A.P.); (S.B.)
| | - Eleonora Mustorgi
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Chemistry and Food and Pharmaceutical Technologies, University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano, 4, 16148 Genoa, Italy; (E.M.); (M.C.)
| | - Santina Bruzzone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (A.P.); (S.B.)
| | - Nicoletta Pedemonte
- UOC Genetica Medica, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via Gerolamo Gaslini, 5, 16147 Genova, Italy; (E.P.); (N.P.)
| | - Monica Casale
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Chemistry and Food and Pharmaceutical Technologies, University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano, 4, 16148 Genoa, Italy; (E.M.); (M.C.)
| | - Enrico Millo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (A.P.); (S.B.)
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (E.C.); Tel.: +10-335-3032-3033 (E.M.); +39-010-353-8350 (E.C.)
| | - Elena Cichero
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (E.C.); Tel.: +10-335-3032-3033 (E.M.); +39-010-353-8350 (E.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chemical Profile of Ruta graveolens, Evaluation of the Antioxidant and Antibacterial Potential of Its Essential Oil, and Molecular Docking Simulations. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app112411753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The research aimed to investigate the chemical composition and antioxidant and antibacterial potential of the essential oil (EO) isolated from the aerial parts (flowers, leaves, and stems) of Ruta graveolens L., growing in western Romania. Ruta graveolens L. essential oil (RGEO) was isolated by steam distillation (0.29% v/w), and the content was assessed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Findings revealed that 2-Undecanone (76.19%) and 2-Nonanone (7.83%) followed by 2-Undecanol (1.85%) and 2-Tridecanone (1.42%) are the main detected compounds of the oil. The RGEO exerted broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal effects, S. pyogenes, S. aureus, and S. mutans being the most susceptible tested strains. The antioxidant activity of RGEO was assessed by peroxide and thiobarbituric acid value, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), and β-carotene/linoleic acid bleaching testing. The results indicated moderate radical scavenging and relative antioxidative activity in DPPH and β-carotene bleaching tests. However, between the 8th and 16th days of the incubation period, the inhibition of primary oxidation compounds induced by the RGEO was significantly stronger (p < 0.001) than butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA). Molecular docking analysis highlighted that a potential antimicrobial mechanism of the RGEO could be exerted through the inhibition of D-Alanine-d-alanine ligase (DDl) by several RGEO components. Docking analysis also revealed that a high number RGEO components could exert a potential in vitro protein-targeted antioxidant effect through xanthine oxidase and lipoxygenase inhibition. Consequently, RGEO could be a new natural source of antiseptics and antioxidants, representing an option for the use of synthetic additives in the food and pharmaceutical industry.
Collapse
|
17
|
Luo D, Tong JB, Xiao XC, Bian S, Zhang X, Wang J, Xu HY. Theoretically exploring selective-binding mechanisms of BRD4 through integrative computational approaches. SAR AND QSAR IN ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 32:985-1011. [PMID: 34845959 DOI: 10.1080/1062936x.2021.1999317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The origin of cancer is related to the dysregulation of multiple signal pathways and of physiological processes. Bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) has become an attractive target for the development of anticancer and anti-inflammatory agents since it can epigenetically regulate the transcription of growth-promoting genes. The synthesized BRD4 inhibitors with new chemical structures can reduce the drug resistance, but their binding modes and the inhibitory mechanism remain unclear. Here, we initially constructed robust QSAR models based on 68 reported tetrahydropteridin analogues using topomer CoMFA and HQSAR. On the basis of QSAR results, we designed 16 novel tetrahydropteridin analogues with modified structures and carried out docking studies. Instead of significant hydrogen bondings with amino acid residue Asn140 as reported in previous research, the molecular docking modelling suggested a novel docking pose that involves the amino acid residues (Trp81, Pro82, Val87, Leu92, Leu94, Cys136, Asp144, and Ile146) at the active site of BRD4. The MD simulations, free energy calculations, and residual energy contributions all indicate that hydrophobic interactions are decisive factors affecting bindings between inhibitors and BRD4. The current study provides new insights that can aid the discovery of BRD4 inhibitors with enhanced anti-cancer ability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Luo
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chemical Additives for Industry, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an China
| | - J B Tong
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chemical Additives for Industry, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an China
| | - X C Xiao
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chemical Additives for Industry, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an China
| | - S Bian
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chemical Additives for Industry, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an China
| | - X Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chemical Additives for Industry, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an China
| | - J Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chemical Additives for Industry, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an China
| | - H Y Xu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Chemical Additives for Industry, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Simultaneous quantification and ADME prediction of AD-1 and its eight metabolites in rat feces, and screening of PARP-1 inhibitors through molecular docking. J Mol Struct 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2021.131016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
19
|
Mild Biamidine-Transfer Conditions for the Synthesis of Aliphatic Biguanides. SYNOPEN 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1681-4544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractThis study focuses on the development of new synthetic pathways to monosubstituted biguanides from amines. An exhaustive comparison of the conditions and reagents used for biamidine transfer was performed. New reagents were synthesized and optimized conditions for the synthesis of substituted biguanides under mild conditions were developed. Eventually, two high-yielding and straightforward protocols for the transfer of a biamidine group to various amines are proposed and their scope and limitations have been explored. These conditions include: i) a direct chromatography-free procedure and ii) an eco-friendly procedure in water compatible with bioinspired molecules. They are particularly efficient for the demanding conversion of aliphatic amines.
Collapse
|
20
|
Trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1): Potential application in mood disorders: A systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:192-210. [PMID: 34537265 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
There is a need for innovation with respect to therapeutics in psychiatry. Available evidence indicates that the trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) agonist SEP-363856 is promising, as it improves measures of cognitive and reward function in schizophrenia. Hedonic and cognitive impairments are transdiagnostic and constitute major burdens in mood disorders. Herein, we systematically review the behavioural and genetic literature documenting the role of TAAR1 in reward and cognitive function, and propose a mechanistic model of TAAR1's functions in the brain. Notably, TAAR1 activity confers antidepressant-like effects, enhances attention and response inhibition, and reduces compulsive reward seeking without impairing normal function. Further characterization of the responsible mechanisms suggests ion-homeostatic, metabolic, neurotrophic, and anti-inflammatory enhancements in the limbic system. Multiple lines of evidence establish the viability of TAAR1 as a biological target for the treatment of mood disorders. Furthermore, the evidence suggests a role for TAAR1 in reward and cognitive function, which is attributed to a cascade of events that are relevant to the cellular integrity and function of the central nervous system.
Collapse
|
21
|
Grytsai O, Ronco C, Benhida R. Synthetic accesses to biguanide compounds. Beilstein J Org Chem 2021; 17:1001-1040. [PMID: 34025808 PMCID: PMC8111433 DOI: 10.3762/bjoc.17.82] [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: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Biguanide is a unique chemical function, which has attracted much attention a century ago and is showing resurgent interest in recent years after a long period of dormancy. This class of compounds has found broad applications such as reaction catalysts, organic strong bases, ligands for metal complexation, or versatile starting materials in organic synthesis for the preparation of nitrogen-containing heterocycles. Moreover, biguanides demonstrate a wide range of biological activities and some representatives are worldwide known such as metformin, the first-line treatment against type II diabetes, or chlorhexidine, the gold standard disinfectant and antiseptic. Although scarcely represented, the number of "success stories" with biguanide-containing compounds highlights their value and their unexploited potential as future drugs in various therapeutic fields or as efficient metal ligands. This review provides an extensive and critical overview of the synthetic accesses to biguanide compounds, as well as their comparative advantages and limitations. It also underlines the need of developing new synthetic methodologies to reach a wider variety of biguanides and to overcome the underrepresentation of these compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oleksandr Grytsai
- Institut de Chimie de Nice UMR7272, Parc Valrose, Université Côte d’Azur, Nice, France
| | - Cyril Ronco
- Institut de Chimie de Nice UMR7272, Parc Valrose, Université Côte d’Azur, Nice, France
| | - Rachid Benhida
- Institut de Chimie de Nice UMR7272, Parc Valrose, Université Côte d’Azur, Nice, France
- Department of Chemical and Biochemical Sciences, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Ben Guerir, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Kathuria D, Raul AD, Wanjari P, Bharatam PV. Biguanides: Species with versatile therapeutic applications. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 219:113378. [PMID: 33857729 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Biguanides are compounds in which two guanidine moieties are fused to form a highly conjugated system. Biguanides are highly basic and hence they are available as salts mostly hydrochloride salts, these cationic species have been found to exhibit many therapeutic properties. This review covers the research and development carried out on biguanides and accounts the various therapeutic applications of drugs containing biguanide group-such as antimalarial, antidiabetic, antiviral, anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-tubercular, antifilarial, anti-HIV, as well as other biological activities. The aim of this review is to compile all the medicinal chemistry applications of this class of compounds so as to pave way for the accelerated efforts in finding the drug action mechanisms associated with this class of compounds. Importance has been given to the organic chemistry of these biguanide derivatives also.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Kathuria
- University Center for Research and Development, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Punjab, 140413, India
| | - Akshay D Raul
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S. A. S. Nagar, 160 062, Punjab, India
| | - Pravin Wanjari
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S. A. S. Nagar, 160 062, Punjab, India
| | - Prasad V Bharatam
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S. A. S. Nagar, 160 062, Punjab, India.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Righetti G, Casale M, Tonelli M, Liessi N, Fossa P, Pedemonte N, Millo E, Cichero E. New Insights into the Binding Features of F508del CFTR Potentiators: A Molecular Docking, Pharmacophore Mapping and QSAR Analysis Approach. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13120445. [PMID: 33291847 PMCID: PMC7762081 DOI: 10.3390/ph13120445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the autosomal recessive disorder most recurrent in Caucasian populations. To combat this disease, many life-prolonging therapies are required and deeply investigated, including the development of the so-called cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators, such as correctors and potentiators. Combination therapy with the two series of drugs led to the approval of several multi-drug effective treatments, such as Orkambi, and to the recent promising evaluation of the triple-combination Elexacaftor-Tezacaftor-Ivacaftor. This scenario enlightened the effectiveness of the multi-drug approach to pave the way for the discovery of novel therapeutic agents to contrast CF. The recent X-crystallographic data about the human CFTR in complex with the well-known potentiator Ivacaftor (VX-770) opened the possibility to apply a computational study aimed to explore the key features involved in the potentiator binding. Herein, we discussed molecular docking studies performed onto the chemotypes so far discussed in the literature as CFTR potentiator, reporting the most relevant interactions responsible for their mechanism of action, involving Van der Waals interactions and π–π stacking with F236, Y304, F305 and F312, as well as H-bonding F931, Y304, S308 and R933. This kind of positioning will stabilize the effective potentiator at the CFTR channel. These data have been accompanied by pharmacophore analyses, which promoted the design of novel derivatives endowed with a main (hetero)aromatic core connected to proper substituents, featuring H-bonding moieties. A highly predictive quantitative-structure activity relationship (QSAR) model has been developed, giving a cross-validated r2 (r2cv) = 0.74, a non-cross validated r2 (r2ncv) = 0.90, root mean square error (RMSE) = 0.347, and a test set r2 (r2pred) = 0.86. On the whole, the results are expected to gain useful information to guide the further development and optimization of new CFTR potentiators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giada Righetti
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.R.); (M.T.)
| | - Monica Casale
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Chemistry and Food and Pharmaceutical Technologies, University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Michele Tonelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.R.); (M.T.)
| | - Nara Liessi
- Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 9, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (N.L.); (E.M.)
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Paola Fossa
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.R.); (M.T.)
- Correspondence: (P.F.); (E.C.); Tel.: +39-010-353-8238 (P.F.); +39-010-353-8370 (E.C.); Fax: +39-010-353-8399 (P.F.); +39-010-353-8399 (E.C.)
| | | | - Enrico Millo
- Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 9, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (N.L.); (E.M.)
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Elena Cichero
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (G.R.); (M.T.)
- Correspondence: (P.F.); (E.C.); Tel.: +39-010-353-8238 (P.F.); +39-010-353-8370 (E.C.); Fax: +39-010-353-8399 (P.F.); +39-010-353-8399 (E.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Novel 1-Amidino-4-Phenylpiperazines as Potent Agonists at Human TAAR1 Receptor: Rational Design, Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Molecular Docking Studies. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13110391. [PMID: 33202687 PMCID: PMC7697893 DOI: 10.3390/ph13110391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) receptor continues to offer an intriguing opportunity to develop innovative therapies in different pharmacological settings. Pursuing our endeavors in the search for effective and safe human TAAR1 (hTAAR1) ligands, we synthesized a new series of 1-amidino-4-phenylpiperazine derivatives (1–16) based on the application of a combined pharmacophore model/scaffold simplification strategy for an in-house series of biguanide-based TAAR1 agonists. Most of the novel compounds proved to be more effective than their prototypes, showing nanomolar EC50 values in functional activity at hTAAR1 and low general cytotoxicity (CC50 > 80 µM) when tested on the Vero-76 cell line. In this new series, the main determinant for TAAR1 agonism ability appears to result from the appropriate combination between the steric size and position of the substituents on the phenyl ring rather than from their different electronic nature, since both electron-withdrawing and electron donor groups are permitted. In particular, the ortho-substitution seems to impose a more appropriate spatial geometry to the molecule that entails an enhanced TAAR1 potency profile, as experienced, in the following order, by compounds 15 (2,3-diCl, EC50 = 20 nM), 2 (2-CH3, EC50 = 30 nM), 6 (2-OCH3, EC50 = 93 nM) and 3 (2-Cl, EC50 = 160 nM). Apart from the interest in them as valuable leads for the development of promising hTAAR1 agonists, these simple small molecules have further allowed us to identify the minimal structural requirements for producing an efficient hTAAR1 targeting ability.
Collapse
|
25
|
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel (thio)semicarbazone-Based Benzimidazoles as Antiviral Agents against Human Respiratory Viruses. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25071487. [PMID: 32218301 PMCID: PMC7180491 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25071487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Respiratory RNA viruses are responsible for recurrent acute respiratory illnesses that still represent a major medical need. Previously we developed a large variety of benzimidazole derivatives able to inhibit these viruses. Herein, two series of (thio)semicarbazone- and hydrazone-based benzimidazoles have been explored, by derivatizing 5-acetyl benzimidazoles previously reported by us, thereby evaluating the influence of the modification on the antiviral activity. Compounds 6, 8, 16 and 17, bearing the 5-(thio)semicarbazone and 5-hydrazone functionalities in combination with the 2-benzyl ring on the benzimidazole core structure, acted as dual inhibitors of influenza A virus and human coronavirus. For respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), activity is limited to the 5-thiosemicarbazone (25) and 5-hydrazone (22) compounds carrying the 2-[(benzotriazol-1/2-yl)methyl]benzimidazole scaffold. These molecules proved to be the most effective antiviral agents, able to reach the potency profile of the licensed drug ribavirin. The molecular docking analysis explained the SAR of these compounds around their binding mode to the target RSV F protein, revealing the key contacts for further assessment. The herein-investigated benzimidazole-based derivatives may represent valuable hit compounds, deserving subsequent structural improvements towards more efficient antiviral agents for the treatment of pathologies caused by these human respiratory viruses.
Collapse
|
26
|
Tonelli M, Cichero E. Trace amine associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) modulators: a patent review (2010-present). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2019; 30:137-145. [DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2020.1708900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michele Tonelli
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 3, Genova, Italy
| | - Elena Cichero
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università di Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 3, Genova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ye J, Yang X, Xu M, Chan PKS, Ma C. Novel N-Substituted oseltamivir derivatives as potent influenza neuraminidase inhibitors: Design, synthesis, biological evaluation, ADME prediction and molecular docking studies. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 182:111635. [PMID: 31493744 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.111635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of novel potent neuraminidase (NA) inhibitors remains an attractive approach for treating infectious diseases caused by influenza. In this study, we describe the design and synthesis of novel N-substituted oseltamivir derivatives for probing the 150-cavity which is nascent to the activity site of NA. NA inhibitory studies showed that new derivatives demonstrated the inhibitory activity with IC50 values at nM level against NA of a clinical influenza virus strain. Moreover, the in silico ADME predictions showed that the selected compounds had comparable properties with oseltamivir carboxylate, which demonstrated the druggablity of these derivatives. Furthermore, molecular docking studies showed that the most potent compound 6f and 10i could adopt different modes of binding interaction with NA, which may provide novel solutions for treating oseltamivir-resistant influenza. Based on the research results, we consider that compounds 6f and 10i have the potential for further studies as novel antiviral agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiqing Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Min Xu
- School of Electrical and Data Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and IT, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Paul Kay-Sheung Chan
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Cong Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Farfán-García ED, Márquez-Gómez R, Barrón-González M, Pérez-Capistran T, Rosales-Hernández MC, Pinto-Almazán R, Soriano-Ursúa MA. Monoamines and their Derivatives on GPCRs: Potential Therapy for Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Alzheimer Res 2019; 16:871-894. [PMID: 30963972 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x17666190409144558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Albeit cholinergic depletion remains the key event in Alzheimer's Disease (AD), recent information describes stronger links between monoamines (trace amines, catecholamines, histamine, serotonin, and melatonin) and AD than those known in the past century. Therefore, new drug design strategies focus efforts to translate the scope on these topics and to offer new drugs which can be applied as therapeutic tools in AD. In the present work, we reviewed the state-of-art regarding genetic, neuropathology and neurochemistry of AD involving monoamine systems. Then, we compiled the effects of monoamines found in the brain of mammals as well as the reported effects of their derivatives and some structure-activity relationships. Recent derivatives have triggered exciting effects and pharmacokinetic properties in both murine models and humans. In some cases, the mechanism of action is clear, essentially through the interaction on G-protein-coupled receptors as revised in this manuscript. Additional mechanisms are inhibition of enzymes for their biotransformation, regulation of free-radicals in the central nervous system and others for the effects on Tau phosphorylation or amyloid-beta accumulation. All these data make the monoamines and their derivatives attractive potential elements for AD therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eunice D Farfán-García
- Departamento de Fisiologia y Bioquimica. Seccion de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigacion, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Diaz Miron s/n, 11340, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ricardo Márquez-Gómez
- MRC Anatomical Neuropharmacology Unit, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, OX1 3TH, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Mónica Barrón-González
- Departamento de Fisiologia y Bioquimica. Seccion de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigacion, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Diaz Miron s/n, 11340, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Teresa Pérez-Capistran
- Departamento de Fisiologia y Bioquimica. Seccion de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigacion, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Diaz Miron s/n, 11340, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Martha C Rosales-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Biofisica y Biocatalisis, Seccion de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigacion Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Diaz Miron s/n, 11340, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rodolfo Pinto-Almazán
- Unidad de Investigacion Hospital Regional de Alta Especialidad Ixtapaluca, Carretera Federal Mexico-Puebla km 34.5, C.P. 56530. Ixtapaluca, State of Mexico, Mexico
| | - Marvin A Soriano-Ursúa
- Departamento de Fisiologia y Bioquimica. Seccion de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigacion, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Diaz Miron s/n, 11340, Mexico City, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Tonelli M, Cichero E, Mahmoud AM, Rabbito A, Tasso B, Fossa P, Ligresti A. Exploring the effectiveness of novel benzimidazoles as CB2 ligands: synthesis, biological evaluation, molecular docking studies and ADMET prediction. MEDCHEMCOMM 2018; 9:2045-2054. [PMID: 30647880 DOI: 10.1039/c8md00461g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Herein we continued our previous work on the development of CB2 ligands, reporting the design and synthesis of a series of benzimidazole-containing derivatives that were explored as selective CB2 ligands with binding affinity towards both CB1 and CB2 receptors. Seven out of eighteen compounds exhibited preferential binding ability to CB2 over CB1 receptors with potencies in the sub-micromolar or low micromolar range. In particular, we identified two promising hit compounds, the agonist 1-[2-(N,N-diethylamino)ethyl]-2-(4-ethoxybenzyl)-5-trifluoromethylbenzimidazole (3) (CB2: K i = 0.42 μM) and the inverse agonist/antagonist 1-butyl-2-(3,4-dichlorobenzyl)-5-trifluoromethylbenzimidazole (11) (CB2: K i = 0.37 μM). Docking studies also performed on other benzimidazoles reported in the literature supported the structure-activity relationship observed in this series of compounds and allowed the key contacts involved in the agonist and/or inverse agonist behaviour displayed by these derivatives to be determined. The in silico evaluation of ADMET properties suggested a favorable pharmacokinetic and safety profile, promoting the drug-likeness of these compounds towards a further optimization process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michele Tonelli
- Dipartimento di Farmacia , Università degli Studi di Genova , V.le Benedetto XV, 3 , 16132 Genova , Italy .
| | - Elena Cichero
- Dipartimento di Farmacia , Università degli Studi di Genova , V.le Benedetto XV, 3 , 16132 Genova , Italy .
| | - Alì Mokhtar Mahmoud
- National Research Council of Italy , Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry , Endocannabinoid Research Group , Via Campi Flegrei 34 , 80078 Pozzuoli , (Na) , Italy
| | - Alessandro Rabbito
- National Research Council of Italy , Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry , Endocannabinoid Research Group , Via Campi Flegrei 34 , 80078 Pozzuoli , (Na) , Italy
| | - Bruno Tasso
- Dipartimento di Farmacia , Università degli Studi di Genova , V.le Benedetto XV, 3 , 16132 Genova , Italy .
| | - Paola Fossa
- Dipartimento di Farmacia , Università degli Studi di Genova , V.le Benedetto XV, 3 , 16132 Genova , Italy .
| | - Alessia Ligresti
- National Research Council of Italy , Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry , Endocannabinoid Research Group , Via Campi Flegrei 34 , 80078 Pozzuoli , (Na) , Italy
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Synthesis and biological evaluation of 1,3-dioxolane-based 5-HT 1A receptor agonists for CNS disorders and neuropathic pain. Future Med Chem 2018; 10:2137-2154. [PMID: 30043643 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2018-0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Targeting 5-HT1A receptor (5-HT1AR) as a strategy for CNS disorders and pain control. METHODOLOGY A series of 1,3-dioxolane-based 2-heteroaryl-phenoxyethylamines was synthesized by a convergent approach and evaluated at α1-adrenoceptors and 5-HT1AR by binding and functional experiments. Absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity prediction studies were performed to explore the drug-likeness of the compounds. RESULTS & CONCLUSION The most promising compound, the pyridin-4-yl derivative, emerged as a potent and selective 5-HT1AR agonist (pKi = 9.2; pD2 = 8.83; 5-HT1A/α1 = 135). In vitro it was able to permeate by passive diffusion MDCKII-MDR1 monolayer mimicking the blood-brain barrier and showed promising neuroprotective activity.
Collapse
|
31
|
Francesconi V, Giovannini L, Santucci M, Cichero E, Costi MP, Naesens L, Giordanetto F, Tonelli M. Synthesis, biological evaluation and molecular modeling of novel azaspiro dihydrotriazines as influenza virus inhibitors targeting the host factor dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). Eur J Med Chem 2018; 155:229-243. [PMID: 29886325 PMCID: PMC7115377 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.05.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Recently we identified cycloguanil-like dihydrotriazine derivatives, which provided host-factor directed antiviral activity against influenza viruses and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), by targeting the human dihydrofolate reductase (hDHFR) enzyme. In this context we deemed interesting to further investigate the structure activity relationship (SAR) of our first series of cycloguanil-like dihydrotriazines, designing two novel azaspiro dihydrotriazine scaffolds. The present study allowed the exploration of the potential chemical space, around these new scaffolds, that are well tolerated for maintaining the antiviral effect by means of interaction with the hDHFR enzyme. The new derivatives confirmed their inhibitory profile against influenza viruses, especially type B. In particular, the two best compounds shared potent antiviral activity (4: EC50 = 0.29 μM; 6: EC50 = 0.19 μM), which was comparable to that of zanamivir (EC50 = 0.14 μM), and better than that of ribavirin (EC50 = 3.2 μM). In addition, these two compounds proved to be also effective against RSV (4: EC50 = 0.40 μM, SI ≥ 250; 6: EC50 = 1.8 μM, SI ≥ 56), surpassing the potency and selectivity index (SI) of ribavirin (EC50 = 5.8 μM, SI > 43). By a perspective of these results, the above adequately substituted azaspiro dihydrotriazines may represent valuable hit compounds worthy of further structural optimization to develop improved host DHFR-directed antiviral agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Francesconi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 3, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Luca Giovannini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 3, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Matteo Santucci
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 103, 41100, Modena, Italy
| | - Elena Cichero
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 3, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Costi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 103, 41100, Modena, Italy
| | - Lieve Naesens
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Fabrizio Giordanetto
- Medicinal Chemistry, Taros Chemicals GmbH & Co. KG, Emil-Figge-Str. 76a, 44227, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Michele Tonelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 3, 16132, Genoa, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Guariento S, Tonelli M, Espinoza S, Gerasimov AS, Gainetdinov RR, Cichero E. Rational design, chemical synthesis and biological evaluation of novel biguanides exploring species-specificity responsiveness of TAAR1 agonists. Eur J Med Chem 2018; 146:171-184. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.01.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
33
|
Murineddu G, Deligia F, Ragusa G, García-Toscano L, Gómez-Cañas M, Asproni B, Satta V, Cichero E, Pazos R, Fossa P, Loriga G, Fernández-Ruiz J, Pinna GA. Novel sulfenamides and sulfonamides based on pyridazinone and pyridazine scaffolds as CB 1 receptor ligand antagonists. Bioorg Med Chem 2018; 26:295-307. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2017.11.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Revised: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
34
|
|
35
|
Berry MD, Gainetdinov RR, Hoener MC, Shahid M. Pharmacology of human trace amine-associated receptors: Therapeutic opportunities and challenges. Pharmacol Ther 2017; 180:161-180. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
36
|
Targeting species-specific trace amine-associated receptor 1 ligands: to date perspective of the rational drug design process. Future Med Chem 2017; 9:1507-1527. [DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2017-0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors represent main targets of several clinically relevant drugs, playing nowadays a leading part for further drug discovery process. Trace amine-associated receptor's family (TAARs) assumed an intriguing role as druggable target in medicinal chemistry, being TAAR1 the most investigated. Indeed, related ligands proved to be intertwined in several circuits involved in pathological pathways or therapeutic routes. Herein, we highlight relevant efforts in the search of novel agonists, focusing on responsiveness featured by different chemotypes toward rodent and human TAAR1, in order to explore species-specificity preferences. We also discuss the main strategies guiding so far the design of new TAAR1 agonists, giving a perspective of the structure-based methodologies aimed at deriving new insights for more potent and selective derivatives.
Collapse
|