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Chen T. Unveiling the significance of inducible nitric oxide synthase: Its impact on cancer progression and clinical implications. Cancer Lett 2024; 592:216931. [PMID: 38701892 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
The intricate role of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in cancer pathophysiology has garnered significant attention, highlighting the complex interplay between tumorigenesis, immune response, and cellular metabolism. As an enzyme responsible for producing nitric oxide (NO) in response to inflammatory stimuli. iNOS is implicated in various aspects of cancer development, including DNA damage, angiogenesis, and evasion of apoptosis. This review synthesizes the current findings from both preclinical and clinical studies on iNOS across different cancer types, reflecting the variability depending on cellular context and tumor microenvironment. We explore the molecular mechanisms by which iNOS modulates cancer cell growth, survival, and metastasis, emphasizing its impact on immune surveillance and response to treatment. Additionally, the potential of targeting iNOS as a therapeutic strategy in cancer treatment is examined. By integrating insights from recent advances, this review aims to elucidate the significant role of iNOS in cancer and pave the way for novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Chen
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
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2
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Merenzon MA, Hincapie Arias E, Bhatia S, Shah AH, Higgins DMO, Villaverde M, Belgorosky D, Eijan AM. Nitric oxide synthase inhibitors as potential therapeutic agents for gliomas: A systematic review. Nitric Oxide 2023; 138-139:10-16. [PMID: 37279819 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2023.06.002] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gliomas represent the most prevalent form of brain tumors, among which glioblastomas are the most malignant subtype. Despite advances in comprehending their biology and treatment strategies, median survival remains disappointingly low. Inflammatory processes involving nitric oxide (NO), critically contribute to glioma formation. The inducible isoform of NO synthase (iNOS) is highly overexpressed in gliomas and has been linked to resistance against temozolomide (TMZ) treatment, neoplastic transformation, and modulation of immune response. While both in vitro and in vivo studies showed the potential of iNOS inhibitors as effective treatments for gliomas, no clinical trials on gliomas have been published. This review aims to summarize the available evidence regarding iNOS as a target for glioma treatment, focusing on clinically relevant data. METHODS Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review by searching PubMed/Medline, and Embase databases in May 2023. We included studies that investigated the impact of NOS inhibitors on glioma cells using L-NMMA, CM544, PBN, 1400W or l-NAME either alone or combined with TMZ. We extracted data on the NOS inhibitor used, subtype, study setting, animal model or cell lines employed, obtained results, and safety profile. Our inclusion criteria encompassed original articles in English or Spanish, studies with an untreated control group, and a primary outcome focused on the biological effects on glioma cells. RESULTS Out of 871 articles screened from the aforementioned databases, 37 reports were assessed for eligibility. After excluding studies that did not utilize glioma cells or address the designated outcome, 11 original articles satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Although no NOS inhibitor has been tested in a published clinical trial, three inhibitors have been evaluated using in vivo models of intracranial gliomas. l-NAME, 1400W, and CM544 were tested in vitro. Co-administration of l-NAME, or CM544 with TMZ showed superior results in vitro compared to individual agent testing. CONCLUSION Glioblastomas remain a challenging therapeutic target. iNOS inhibitors exhibit substantial potential as treatment options for oncologic lesions, and they have demonstrated a safe toxicity profile in humans for other pathological conditions. Research endeavors should be focused on investigating their potential effects on brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin A Merenzon
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Lois Pope Life Center, 1095 NW 14th Terrace (D4-6), Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
| | - Elsa Hincapie Arias
- Instituto de Oncología Ángel H. Roffo, Área de Investigación, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 5481 San Martín Av., C1417DTB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Shovan Bhatia
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Lois Pope Life Center, 1095 NW 14th Terrace (D4-6), Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Ashish H Shah
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Lois Pope Life Center, 1095 NW 14th Terrace (D4-6), Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1475 NW 12th Ave, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Dominique M O Higgins
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of North Carolina Medical Center, 101 Manning Dr, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Marcela Villaverde
- Instituto de Oncología Ángel H. Roffo, Área de Investigación, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 5481 San Martín Av., C1417DTB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Denise Belgorosky
- Instituto de Oncología Ángel H. Roffo, Área de Investigación, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 5481 San Martín Av., C1417DTB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana M Eijan
- Instituto de Oncología Ángel H. Roffo, Área de Investigación, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 5481 San Martín Av., C1417DTB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Carrión MD, Rubio-Ruiz B, Franco-Montalban F, Amoia P, Zuccarini MC, De Simone C, Camacho ME, Amoroso R, Maccallini C. New amidine-benzenesulfonamides as iNOS inhibitors for the therapy of the triple negative breast cancer. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 248:115112. [PMID: 36641860 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a specific breast cancer subtype, and poor prognosis is associated to this tumour when it is in the metastatic form. The overexpression of the inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS) is considered a predictor of poor outcome in TNBC patients, and this enzyme is reported as a valuable molecular target to compromise TNBC progression. In this work, new amidines containing a benzenesulfonamide group were designed and synthesized as selective iNOS inhibitors. An in vitro biological evaluation was performed to assess compounds activity against both the inducible and constitutive NOSs. The most interesting compounds 1b and 2b were evaluated on MDA-MB-231 cells as antiproliferative agents, and 1b capability to counteract cell migration was also studied. Finally, an in-depth docking study was performed to shed light on the observed potency and selectivity of action of the most promising compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Dora Carrión
- Department of Medicinal and Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Cartuja s/n, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Belén Rubio-Ruiz
- Department of Medicinal and Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Cartuja s/n, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain; GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, PTS Granada, Avda. Ilustración 114, 18016, Granada, Spain
| | - Francisco Franco-Montalban
- Department of Medicinal and Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Cartuja s/n, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Pasquale Amoia
- Department of Pharmacy, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Zuccarini
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Chiara De Simone
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - M Encarnación Camacho
- Department of Medicinal and Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Cartuja s/n, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain.
| | - Rosa Amoroso
- Department of Pharmacy, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy.
| | - Cristina Maccallini
- Department of Pharmacy, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
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The Inhibition of the Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase Enhances the DPSC Mineralization under LPS-Induced Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314560. [PMID: 36498888 PMCID: PMC9736592 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) is a key messenger in physiological and pathological processes in mammals. An excessive NO production is associated with pathological conditions underlying the inflammation response as a trigger. Among others, dental pulp inflammation results from the invasion of dentin by pathogenic bacteria. Vital functions of pulp mesenchymal stem cells (DPSCs, dental pulp stem cells), such as mineralization, might be affected by the inducible NOS (iNOS) upregulation. In this context, the iNOS selective inhibition can be considered an innovative therapeutic strategy to counteract inflammation and to promote the regeneration of the dentin-pulp complex. The present work aims at evaluating two acetamidines structurally related to the selective iNOS inhibitor 1400W, namely CM544 and FAB1020, in a model of LPS-stimulated primary DPSCs. Our data reveal that CM544 and even more FAB1020 are promising anti-inflammatory compounds, decreasing IL-6 secretion by enhancing CD73 expression-levels, a protein involved in innate immunity processes and thus confirming an immunomodulatory role of DPSCs. In parallel, cell mineralization potential is retained in the presence of compounds as well as VEGF secretion, and thus their angiogenetic potential. Data presented lay the ground for further investigation on the anti-inflammatory potential of acetamidines selectively targeting iNOS in a clinical context.
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Maccallini C, Amoroso R. Preface to Nitric Oxide Modulators in Health and Disease I. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27206820. [PMID: 36296414 PMCID: PMC9610956 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27206820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Ammazzalorso A, Fantacuzzi M. Anticancer Inhibitors. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27144650. [PMID: 35889522 PMCID: PMC9317223 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27144650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
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Maccallini C, Gallorini M, Sisto F, Akdemir A, Ammazzalorso A, De Filippis B, Fantacuzzi M, Giampietro L, Carradori S, Cataldi A, Amoroso R. New azolyl-derivatives as multitargeting agents against breast cancer and fungal infections: synthesis, biological evaluation and docking study. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2021; 36:1632-1645. [PMID: 34289751 PMCID: PMC8300937 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2021.1954918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitors (NSAIs) are well-established drugs for the therapy of breast cancer. However, they display some serious side effects, and their efficacy can be compromised by the development of chemoresistance. Previously, we have reported different indazole-based carbamates and piperidine-sulphonamides as potent aromatase inhibitors. Starting from the most promising compounds, here we have synthesised new indazole and triazole derivatives and evaluated their biological activity as potential dual agents, targeting both the aromatase and the inducible nitric oxide synthase, being this last dysregulated in breast cancer. Furthermore, selected compounds were evaluated as antiproliferative and cytotoxic agents in the MCF-7 cell line. Moreover, considering the therapeutic diversity of azole-based compounds, all the synthesized compounds were also evaluated as antifungals on different Candida strains. A docking study, as well as molecular dynamics simulation, were carried out to shed light on the binding mode of the most interesting compound into the different target enzymes catalytic sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Maccallini
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti -Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Marialucia Gallorini
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti -Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Francesca Sisto
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Atilla Akdemir
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bezmialem Vakif University, Computer-aided drug discovery laboratory, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Barbara De Filippis
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti -Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Letizia Giampietro
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti -Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Simone Carradori
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti -Pescara, Chieti, Italy
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bezmialem Vakif University, Computer-aided drug discovery laboratory, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Amelia Cataldi
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti -Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Rosa Amoroso
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti -Pescara, Chieti, Italy
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Mazurek M, Rola R. The implications of nitric oxide metabolism in the treatment of glial tumors. Neurochem Int 2021; 150:105172. [PMID: 34461111 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Glial tumors are the most common intracranial malignancies. Unfortunately, despite such a high prevalence, patients' prognosis is usually poor. It is related to the high invasiveness, tendency to relapse and the resistance of tumors to traditional methods of treatment. An important link in the aspect of these issues may be nitric oxide (NO) metabolism. It is a very complex mechanism with multidirectional effects on the neoplastic process. Depending on the concentration axis, it can both exert pro-tumor action as well as contribute to the inhibition of tumorigenesis. The latest observations show that the control of its metabolism can be very helpful in the development of new methods of treating gliomas, as well as in increasing the effectiveness of the agents currently used. The influence of nitric oxide and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity on glioma stem cells seem to be of particular importance. The use of specific inhibitors may allow the reduction of tumor growth and its tendency to relapse. Another important feature of GSCs is their conditioning of glioma resistance to traditional forms of treatment. Recent studies have shown that modulation of NO metabolism can suppress this effect, preventing the induction of radio and chemoresistance. Moreover, nitric oxide is involved in the regulation of a number of immune mechanisms. Adequate modulation of its metabolism may contribute to the induction of an anti-tumor response in the patients' immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Mazurek
- Chair and Department of Neurosurgery and Paediatric Neurosurgery, Medical University in Lublin, Poland.
| | - Radosław Rola
- Chair and Department of Neurosurgery and Paediatric Neurosurgery, Medical University in Lublin, Poland
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Selective Inhibitors of the Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase as Modulators of Cell Responses in LPS-Stimulated Human Monocytes. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26154419. [PMID: 34361571 PMCID: PMC8348305 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26154419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is a crucial enzyme involved in monocyte cell response towards inflammation, and it is responsible for the production of sustained amounts of nitric oxide. This free radical molecule is involved in the defense against pathogens; nevertheless, its continuous and dysregulated production contributes to the development of several pathological conditions, including inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. In the present study, we investigated the effects of two new iNOS inhibitors, i.e., 4-(ethanimidoylamino)-N-(4-fluorophenyl)benzamide hydrobromide (FAB1020) and N-{3-[(ethanimidoylamino)methyl]benzyl}-l-prolinamidedihydrochloride (CM554), on human LPS-stimulated monocytes, using the 1400 W compound as a comparison. Our results show that CM544 and FAB1020 are selective and decrease cytotoxicity, IL-6 secretion and LPS-stimulated monocyte migration. Furthermore, the modulation of iNOS, nitrotyrosine and Nrf2 were analyzed at the protein level. Based on the collected preliminary results, the promising therapeutic value of the investigated compounds emerges, as they appear able to modulate the pro-inflammatory LPS-stimulated response in the low micromolar range in human monocytes.
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Maccallini C, Marinelli L, Indorf P, Cacciatore I, Fantacuzzi M, Clement B, Di Stefano A, Amoroso R. A Novel Prodrug of a nNOS Inhibitor with Improved Pharmacokinetic Potential. ChemMedChem 2020; 15:2157-2163. [PMID: 32783298 PMCID: PMC7756445 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Under different pathological conditions, aberrant induction of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) generates overproduction of NO that can cause irreversible cell damage. The aim of this study was to develop an amidoxime prodrug of a potent nNOS inhibitor, the benzhydryl acetamidine. We synthesized the benzhydryl acetamidoxime, which was evaluated in vitro to ascertain the potential NOS inhibitory activity, as well as conducting bioconversion into the parent acetamidine. The prodrug was also profiled for in vitro physicochemical properties, by determining the lipophilicity, passive permeation through the human gastrointestinal tract and across the blood-brain barrier by PAMPA, and chemical, enzymatic, and plasma stability. The obtained data demonstrate that the amidoxime prodrug shows an improved pharmacokinetic profile with respect to the acetamidine nNOS inhibitor, thus suggesting that it could be a promising lead compound to treat all those pathological conditions in which nNOS activity is dysregulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Maccallini
- Department of PharmacyUniversity “G. d'Annunzio” of Chieti - Pescaravia dei Vestini 3166100ChietiItaly
| | - Lisa Marinelli
- Department of PharmacyUniversity “G. d'Annunzio” of Chieti - Pescaravia dei Vestini 3166100ChietiItaly
| | - Patrick Indorf
- Pharmaceutical InstituteUniversity of KielGutenbergstraße. 7624118KielGermany
| | - Ivana Cacciatore
- Department of PharmacyUniversity “G. d'Annunzio” of Chieti - Pescaravia dei Vestini 3166100ChietiItaly
| | - Marialuigia Fantacuzzi
- Department of PharmacyUniversity “G. d'Annunzio” of Chieti - Pescaravia dei Vestini 3166100ChietiItaly
| | - Bernd Clement
- Pharmaceutical InstituteUniversity of KielGutenbergstraße. 7624118KielGermany
| | - Antonio Di Stefano
- Department of PharmacyUniversity “G. d'Annunzio” of Chieti - Pescaravia dei Vestini 3166100ChietiItaly
| | - Rosa Amoroso
- Department of PharmacyUniversity “G. d'Annunzio” of Chieti - Pescaravia dei Vestini 3166100ChietiItaly
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Maccallini C, Arias F, Gallorini M, Amoia P, Ammazzalorso A, De Filippis B, Fantacuzzi M, Giampietro L, Cataldi A, Camacho ME, Amoroso R. Antiglioma Activity of Aryl and Amido-Aryl Acetamidine Derivatives Targeting iNOS: Synthesis and Biological Evaluation. ACS Med Chem Lett 2020; 11:1470-1475. [PMID: 32676156 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.0c00285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nitric oxide is an important inflammation mediator with a recognized role in the development of different cancers. Gliomas are primary tumors of the central nervous system with poor prognosis, and the expression of the inducible nitric oxide synthase correlates with the degree of malignancy, changes in vascular reactivity, and neo-angiogenesis. Therefore, targeting the nitric oxide biosynthesis appears as a potential strategy to impair glioma progression. In the present work a set of aryl and amido-aryl acetamidine derivatives were synthesized to obtain new potent and selective inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitors with improved physicochemical parameters with respect to the previously published molecules. Compound 17 emerged as the most promising inhibitor and was evaluated on C6 rat glioma cell line, showing antiproliferative effects and high selectivity over astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Maccallini
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31-66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Fabio Arias
- Departamento de Química Farmacéutica y Orgánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Granada, Campus de Cartuja s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Marialucia Gallorini
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31-66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Pasquale Amoia
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31-66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Alessandra Ammazzalorso
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31-66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Barbara De Filippis
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31-66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Marialuigia Fantacuzzi
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31-66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Letizia Giampietro
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31-66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Amelia Cataldi
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31-66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - María Encarnación Camacho
- Departamento de Química Farmacéutica y Orgánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Granada, Campus de Cartuja s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Rosa Amoroso
- Department of Pharmacy, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini, 31-66100 Chieti, Italy
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Acetamidine-Based iNOS Inhibitors as Molecular Tools to Counteract Inflammation in BV2 Microglial Cells. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25112646. [PMID: 32517272 PMCID: PMC7321217 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25112646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are associated with increased levels of nitric oxide (NO) mainly produced by microglial cells through inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) whose expression is induced by inflammatory stimuli. NO can both exert cytotoxic functions and induce a metabolic switch by inhibiting oxidative phosphorylation and upregulating glycolytic flux. Here, we investigated whether two newly synthesized acetamidine based iNOS inhibitors, namely CM292 and CM544, could inhibit lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV2 microglial cell activation, focusing on both inflammatory and metabolic profiles. We found that CM292 and CM544, without affecting iNOS protein expression, reduced NO production and reverted LPS-induced inflammatory and cytotoxic response. Furthermore, in the presence of the inflammatory stimulus, both the inhibitors increased the expression of glycolytic enzymes. In particular, CM292 significantly reduced nuclear accumulation of pyruvate kinase M2, increased mitochondrial membrane potential and oxygen consumption rate, and augmented the expression of pyruvate dehydrogenase, pointing to a metabolic switch toward oxidative phosphorylation. These data confirm the role played by NO in the connection between cell bioenergetics profile and inflammation, and suggest the potential usefulness of iNOS inhibitors in redirecting microglia from detrimental to pro-regenerative phenotype.
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Mittal A, Kakkar R. Nitric Oxide Synthases and Their Inhibitors: A Review. LETT DRUG DES DISCOV 2020. [DOI: 10.2174/1570180816666190222154457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Nitric Oxide (NO), an important biological mediator, is involved in the regulation of the cardiovascular, nervous and immune systems in mammals. Synthesis of NO is catalyzed by its biosynthetic enzyme, Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS). There are three main isoforms of the enzyme, neuronal NOS, endothelial NOS and inducible NOS, which have very similar structures but differ in their expression and activities. NO is produced in the active site of the enzyme in two distinct cycles from oxidation of the substrate L-arg (L-arginine) in nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-dependent reaction. NOS has gained considerable attention of biochemists due to its complexity and unique catalytic mechanism. The review focuses on NOS structure, its function and catalytic reaction mechanism. In particular, the review is concluded with a discussion on the role of all three isoforms of NOS in physiological and pathological conditions and their inhibitors with a focus on the role of computational techniques in their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anshika Mittal
- Computational Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi, Delhi-110007, India
| | - Rita Kakkar
- Computational Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi, Delhi-110007, India
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Maccallini C, Gallorini M, Cataldi A, Amoroso R. Targeting iNOS As a Valuable Strategy for the Therapy of Glioma. ChemMedChem 2020; 15:339-344. [PMID: 31851765 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201900580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Gliomas are the most prevalent primary tumors of the brain and spinal cord. Histologically, they share features of normal glial cells, but whether gliomas originate from normal glial cells, glial or neural precursors, stem cells, or other cell types remains a topic of investigation. The enhanced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) has been reported as a hallmark of chemoresistance in gliomas, and several lines of evidence have reported that a decreased proliferation of glioma cells could be related to the selective inhibition of iNOS. This review aims to summarize the current understanding of iNOS expression and activity modulation in the regulation of glioma pathogenesis, along with compounds that could act as therapeutic agents against glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Maccallini
- Department of Pharmacy, University G. d'Annunzio, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Marialucia Gallorini
- Department of Pharmacy, University G. d'Annunzio, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Amelia Cataldi
- Department of Pharmacy, University G. d'Annunzio, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Rosa Amoroso
- Department of Pharmacy, University G. d'Annunzio, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
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15
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Minhas R, Bansal Y, Bansal G. Inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitors: A comprehensive update. Med Res Rev 2019; 40:823-855. [PMID: 31502681 DOI: 10.1002/med.21636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), which is expressed in response to bacterial/proinflammatory stimuli, generates nitric oxide (NO) that provides cytoprotection. Overexpression of iNOS increases the levels of NO, and this increased NO level is implicated in pathophysiology of complex multifactorial diseases like Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Selective inhibition of iNOS is an effective approach in treatment of such complex diseases. l-Arginine, being a substrate for iNOS, is the natural lead to develop iNOS inhibitors. More than 200 research reports on development of nitric oxide synthase inhibitors by different research groups across the globe have appeared in literature so far. The first review on iNOS, in 2002, discussed the iNOS inhibitors under two classes that is, amino acid and non-amino acid derivatives. Other review articles discussing specific chemical classes of iNOS inhibitors also appeared during last decade. In the present review, all reports on both natural and synthetic iNOS inhibitors, published 2002 onwards, are studied, classified, and discussed to provide comprehensive information on iNOS inhibitors. The synthetic inhibitors are broadly classified into two categories that is, arginine and non-arginine analogs. The latter are further classified into amidines, five- or six-membered heterocyclics, fused cyclics, steroidal type, and chalcones analogs. Structures of the most/significantly potent compounds from each report are provided to know the functional groups important for incurring iNOS inhibitory activity and selectivity. This review is aimed to provide a comprehensive view to the medicinal chemists for rational designing of novel and potent iNOS inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Minhas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, India
| | - Yogita Bansal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, India
| | - Gulshan Bansal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, India
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16
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Palumbo P, Lombardi F, Augello FR, Giusti I, Luzzi S, Dolo V, Cifone MG, Cinque B. NOS2 inhibitor 1400W Induces Autophagic Flux and Influences Extracellular Vesicle Profile in Human Glioblastoma U87MG Cell Line. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20123010. [PMID: 31226744 PMCID: PMC6627770 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20123010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The relevance of nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2) as a prognostic factor in Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) malignancy is emerging. We analyzed the effect of NOS2 inhibitor 1400W on the autophagic flux and extracellular vesicle (EV) secretion in U87MG glioma cells. The effects of glioma stem cells (GSC)-derived EVs on adherent U87MG were evaluated. Cell proliferation and migration were examined while using Cell Counting Kit-8 assay (CCK-8) and scratch wound healing assay. Cell cycle profile and apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry. Autophagy-associated acidic vesicular organelles were detected and quantified by acridine orange staining. The number and size of EVs were assessed by nanoparticle tracking analysis. EV ultrastructure was verified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). WB was used to analyze protein expression and acid sphingomyelinase was determined through ceramide levels. 1400W induced autophagy and EV secretion in both adherent U87MG and GSCs. EVs secreted by 1400W-treated GSC, but not those from untreated cells, were able to inhibit adherent U87MG cell growth and migration while also inducing a relevant level of autophagy. The hypothesis of NOS2 expression as GBM profile marker or interesting therapeutic target is supported by our findings. Autophagy and EV release following treatment with the NOS2 inhibitor could represent useful elements to better understand the complex biomolecular frame of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Palumbo
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Francesca Lombardi
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Francesca Rosaria Augello
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Giusti
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Sabino Luzzi
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Polo Didattico "Cesare Brusotti", Viale Brambilla, 74 - 27100 Pavia, Italy.
| | - Vincenza Dolo
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Maria Grazia Cifone
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Benedetta Cinque
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
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17
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The Selective Acetamidine-Based iNOS Inhibitor CM544 Reduces Glioma Cell Proliferation by Enhancing PARP-1 Cleavage In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20030495. [PMID: 30678338 PMCID: PMC6387310 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are the most aggressive adult primary brain tumors. Expression of inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase has been reported as a hallmark of chemoresistance in gliomas and several studies have reported that inhibition of inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase could be related to a decreased proliferation of glioma cells. The present work was to analyze the molecular effects of the acetamidine derivative compound 39 (formally CM544, N-(3-{[(1-iminioethyl)amino]methyl}benzyl) prolinamide dihydrochloride), a newly synthetized iNOS inhibitor, in a C6 rat glioma cell model. There is evidence of CM544 selective binding to the iNOS, an event that triggers the accumulation of ROS/RNS, the expression of Nrf-2 and the phosphorylation of MAPKs after 3 h of treatment. In the long run, CM544 leads to the dephosphorylation of p38 and to a massive cleavage of PARP-1, confirming the block of C6 rat glioma cell proliferation in the G1/S checkpoint and the occurrence of necrotic cell death.
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18
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Palumbo P, Lombardi F, Siragusa G, Dehcordi SR, Luzzi S, Cimini A, Cifone MG, Cinque B. Involvement of NOS2 Activity on Human Glioma Cell Growth, Clonogenic Potential, and Neurosphere Generation. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19092801. [PMID: 30227679 PMCID: PMC6165034 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2) expression has been suggested as an interesting therapeutic target that is being implicated as a component of the molecular profile of several human malignant tumors, including glioblastoma, which is the most aggressive brain tumor with limited therapeutic options and poor prognosis. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the effect of 1400W, a specific NOS2 inhibitor, on human glioma cells in terms of clonogenic potential, proliferation, migration rate, and neurosphere generation ability. NOS2 expression was determined by Western blotting. Nitric oxide (NO) production was measured through nitrite level determination. The trypan blue exclusion test and the plate colony formation assay were performed to evaluate cell proliferation and clonogenic potential. Cell proliferation and migration ability was assessed by the in vitro wound-healing assay. Neurosphere generation in a specific stemcell medium was investigated. NOS2 was confirmed to be expressed in both the glioma cell line and a human glioma primary culture, and overexpressed in relative derived neurospheres. Experiments that aimed to evaluate the influence of 1400W on U-87 MG, T98G (glioblastoma cell lines) and primary glioma cells sustained the crucial role played by NOS2 in proliferation, colony formation, migration, and neurosphere generation, thus supporting the emerging relevance of a NOS2/NO system as a prognostic factor for glioma malignancy and recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Palumbo
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Francesca Lombardi
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Siragusa
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | | | - Sabino Luzzi
- Operative Unit of Neurosurgery, San Salvatore Hospital, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - AnnaMaria Cimini
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine and Center for Biotechnology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA.
| | - Maria Grazia Cifone
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Benedetta Cinque
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Building Delta 6, Coppito, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
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