1
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Fathi F, Alizadeh B, Tabarzad MV, Tabarzad M. Important structural features of antimicrobial peptides towards specific activity: Trends in the development of efficient therapeutics. Bioorg Chem 2024; 149:107524. [PMID: 38850782 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107524] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Proteins and peptides, as polypeptide chains, have usually got unique conformational structures for effective biological activity. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a group of bioactive peptides, which have been increasingly studied during recent years for their promising antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity, as well as, other esteemed bioactivities. Numerous AMPs have been separated from a wide range of natural resources, or produced in vitro through chemical synthesis and recombinant protein expression. Natural AMPs have had limited clinical application due to several drawbacks, such as their short half-life due to protease degradation, lack of activity at physiological salt concentrations, toxicity to mammalian cells, and the absence of suitable methods of delivery for the AMPs that are targeted and sustained. The creation of synthetic analogs of AMPs would both avoid the drawbacks of the natural analogs and maintain or even increase the antimicrobial effectiveness. The structure-activity relationship of discovered AMPs or their derivatives facilitates the development of synthetic AMPs. This review discovered that the relationship between the activity of AMPs and their positive net charge, hydrophobicity, and amino acid sequence and the relationship between AMPs' function and other features like their topology, glycosylation, and halogenation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Fathi
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahareh Alizadeh
- Protein Technology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Vahid Tabarzad
- Protein Technology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Tabarzad
- Protein Technology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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2
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Chi Y, Peng Y, Zhang S, Tang S, Zhang W, Dai C, Ji S. A Rapid In Vivo Toxicity Assessment Method for Antimicrobial Peptides. TOXICS 2024; 12:387. [PMID: 38922067 PMCID: PMC11209610 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12060387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent a promising antibiotic alternative to overcome drug-resistant bacteria by inserting into the membrane of bacteria, resulting in cell lysis. However, therapeutic applications of AMPs have been hindered by their ability to lyse eukaryotic cells. GF-17 is a truncated peptide of LL-37, which has perfect amphipathicity and a higher hydrophobicity, resulting in higher haemolytic activity. However, there is no significant difference in the cytotoxicity against human lung epithelial cells between the GF-17 and LL-37 groups, indicating that there are significant differences in the sensitivity of different human cells to GF-17. In this study, LL-37 and GF-17 were administered to mouse lungs via intranasal inoculation. Blood routine examination results showed that LL-37 did not affect the red blood cells, platelet, white blood cells and neutrophil counts, but GF-17 decreased the white blood cells and neutrophil counts with the increasing concentration of peptides. GF-17-treated mice suffer a body weight loss of about 2.3 g on average in 24 h, indicating that GF-17 is highly toxic to mice. The total cell counts in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from GF-17-treated mice were 4.66-fold that in the untreated group, suggesting that GF-17 treatment leads to inflammation in the lungs of mice. Similarly, the histological results showed the infiltration of neutrophils in the lungs of GF-17-treated mice. The results suggest that the administration of GF-17 in the lungs of mice does not affect the red blood cells and platelet counts in the blood but promotes neutrophil infiltration in the lungs, leading to an inflammatory response. Therefore, we established a mouse acute lung injury model to preliminarily evaluate the in vivo toxicity of AMPs. For AMPs with a clinical application value, systematic research is still needed to evaluate their acute and long-term toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulang Chi
- College of Oceanology and Food Science, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou 362000, China; (Y.C.)
| | - Yunhui Peng
- College of Oceanology and Food Science, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou 362000, China; (Y.C.)
- School of Advanced Manufacturing, Fuzhou University, Quanzhou 362200, China
| | - Shikun Zhang
- Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing 100850, China;
| | - Sijia Tang
- College of Oceanology and Food Science, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou 362000, China; (Y.C.)
| | - Wenzhou Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Quanzhou Medical College, Quanzhou 362011, China
| | - Congjie Dai
- College of Oceanology and Food Science, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou 362000, China; (Y.C.)
| | - Shouping Ji
- College of Oceanology and Food Science, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou 362000, China; (Y.C.)
- School of Advanced Manufacturing, Fuzhou University, Quanzhou 362200, China
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3
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Jeon E, Kim MK, Park Y. Efficacy of the bee-venom antimicrobial peptide Osmin against sensitive and carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strains. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2024; 63:107054. [PMID: 38072166 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2023.107054] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae strains causes severe problems in the treatment of bacterial infections owing to limited treatment options. Especially, carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) is rapidly spreading worldwide and is emerging as a new cause of drug-resistant healthcare-associated infections. CRKP also has been announced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the most pressing antibiotic resistance threats. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are drawing considerable attention as ideal antibiotic alternative candidates to combat MDR bacterial infections. In a previous study, Osmin is composed of 17 amino acids and is isolated from solitary bee (Osmia rufa) venom. Herein, we evaluated the potential of Osmin to be used against drug-resistant K. pneumoniae as an alternative to conventional antibiotics. Osmin exhibited significant antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity and lower toxicity than melittin, a well-known bee venom peptide. Additionally, we confirmed that it possesses a bactericidal mechanism that rapidly destroys bacterial membranes. Osmin was relatively more stable than melittin under the influence of various environmental factors and unlike conventional antibiotics, it exhibited a low bacterial resistance risk. During in vivo tests, Osmin reduced bacterial growth and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and fibrosis-related genes in mice with CRKP-induced sepsis. Overall, our results indicate a high potential for Osmin to be used as a valuable therapeutic agent against drug-resistant K. pneumoniae infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunyeong Jeon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chosun University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Kyung Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chosun University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonkyung Park
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chosun University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea; Research Center for Proteineous Materials (RCPM), Chosun University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea.
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4
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Rangel K, Lechuga GC, Provance DW, Morel CM, De Simone SG. An Update on the Therapeutic Potential of Antimicrobial Peptides against Acinetobacter baumannii Infections. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1281. [PMID: 37765087 PMCID: PMC10537560 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091281] [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: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The rise in antibiotic-resistant strains of clinically important pathogens is a major threat to global health. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the urgent need to develop alternative treatments to address the growing list of priority pathogens. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) rank among the suggested options with proven activity and high potential to be developed into effective drugs. Many AMPs are naturally produced by living organisms protecting the host against pathogens as a part of their innate immunity. Mechanisms associated with AMP actions include cell membrane disruption, cell wall weakening, protein synthesis inhibition, and interference in nucleic acid dynamics, inducing apoptosis and necrosis. Acinetobacter baumannii is a critical pathogen, as severe clinical implications have developed from isolates resistant to current antibiotic treatments and conventional control procedures, such as UV light, disinfectants, and drying. Here, we review the natural AMPs representing primary candidates for new anti-A. baumannii drugs in post-antibiotic-era and present computational tools to develop the next generation of AMPs with greater microbicidal activity and reduced toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karyne Rangel
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute of Science and Technology for Innovation in Neglected Population Diseases (INCT-IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (K.R.); (G.C.L.); (D.W.P.J.); (C.M.M.)
- Epidemiology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory (LEMS), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Curty Lechuga
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute of Science and Technology for Innovation in Neglected Population Diseases (INCT-IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (K.R.); (G.C.L.); (D.W.P.J.); (C.M.M.)
- Epidemiology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory (LEMS), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - David W. Provance
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute of Science and Technology for Innovation in Neglected Population Diseases (INCT-IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (K.R.); (G.C.L.); (D.W.P.J.); (C.M.M.)
- Epidemiology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory (LEMS), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Carlos M. Morel
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute of Science and Technology for Innovation in Neglected Population Diseases (INCT-IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (K.R.); (G.C.L.); (D.W.P.J.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Salvatore G. De Simone
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute of Science and Technology for Innovation in Neglected Population Diseases (INCT-IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (K.R.); (G.C.L.); (D.W.P.J.); (C.M.M.)
- Epidemiology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory (LEMS), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
- Program of Post-Graduation on Science and Biotechnology, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Biology Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 22040-036, RJ, Brazil
- Program of Post-Graduation on Parasitic Biology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
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5
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Chianese A, Zannella C, Monti A, Doti N, Sanna G, Manzin A, De Filippis A, Galdiero M. Hylin-a1: A Pan-Inhibitor against Emerging and Re-Emerging Respiratory Viruses. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13888. [PMID: 37762191 PMCID: PMC10531407 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pandemic and epidemic outbreaks of respiratory viruses are a challenge for public health and social care system worldwide, leading to high mortality and morbidity among the human populations. In light of the limited efficacy of current vaccines and antiviral drugs against respiratory viral infections and the emergence and re-emergence of new viruses, novel broad-spectrum antiviral drugs are needed for the prevention and treatment of these infections. Antimicrobial peptides with an antiviral effect, also known as AVPs, have already been reported as potent inhibitors of viral infections by affecting different stages of the virus lifecycle. In the present study, we analyzed the activity of the AVP Hylin-a1, secreted by the frog Hypsiboas albopunctatus, against a wide range of respiratory viruses, including the coronaviruses HCoV-229E and SARS-CoV-2, measles virus, human parainfluenza virus type 3, and influenza virus H1N1. We report a significant inhibitory effect on infectivity in all the enveloped viruses, whereas there was a lack of activity against the naked coxsackievirus B3. Considering the enormous therapeutic potential of Hylin-a1, further experiments are required to elucidate its mechanism of action and to increase its stability by modifying the native sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Chianese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (C.Z.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Carla Zannella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (C.Z.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Alessandra Monti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (N.D.)
| | - Nunzianna Doti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (N.D.)
| | - Giuseppina Sanna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (G.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Aldo Manzin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (G.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Anna De Filippis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (C.Z.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Massimiliano Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (C.Z.); (A.D.F.)
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6
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Chianese A, Iovane V, Zannella C, Capasso C, Nastri BM, Monti A, Doti N, Montagnaro S, Pagnini U, Iovane G, De Filippis A, Galdiero M. Synthetic Frog-Derived-like Peptides: A New Weapon against Emerging and Potential Zoonotic Viruses. Viruses 2023; 15:1804. [PMID: 37766211 PMCID: PMC10537403 DOI: 10.3390/v15091804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Given the emergence of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), zoonoses have raised in the spotlight of the scientific community. Animals have a pivotal role not only for this infection, but also for many other recent emerging and re-emerging viral diseases, where they may represent both intermediate hosts and/or vectors for zoonoses diffusion. Today, roughly two-thirds of human infections are derived from animal origins; therefore, the search for new broad-spectrum antiviral molecules is mandatory to prevent, control and eradicate future epidemic outbreaks. Host defense peptides, derived from skin secretions of amphibians, appear as the right alternative to common antimicrobial drugs. They are cationic peptides with an amphipathic nature widely described as antibacterial agents, but less is reported about their antiviral potential. In the present study, we evaluated the activity of five amphibian peptides, namely RV-23, AR-23, Hylin-a1, Deserticolin-1 and Hylaseptin-P1, against a wide panel of enveloped animal viruses. A strong virucidal effect was observed for RV-23, AR-23 and Hylin-a1 against bovine and caprine herpesviruses, canine distemper virus, bovine viral diarrhea virus, and Schmallenberg virus. Our results identified these three peptides as potential antiviral-led candidates with a putative therapeutic effect against several animal viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Chianese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (C.Z.); (C.C.); (B.M.N.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Valentina Iovane
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Naples, Italy;
| | - Carla Zannella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (C.Z.); (C.C.); (B.M.N.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Carla Capasso
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (C.Z.); (C.C.); (B.M.N.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Bianca Maria Nastri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (C.Z.); (C.C.); (B.M.N.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Alessandra Monti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (N.D.)
| | - Nunzianna Doti
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging (IBB), National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (N.D.)
| | - Serena Montagnaro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (S.M.); (U.P.); (G.I.)
| | - Ugo Pagnini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (S.M.); (U.P.); (G.I.)
| | - Giuseppe Iovane
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (S.M.); (U.P.); (G.I.)
| | - Anna De Filippis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (C.Z.); (C.C.); (B.M.N.); (A.D.F.)
| | - Massimiliano Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (C.Z.); (C.C.); (B.M.N.); (A.D.F.)
- UOC of Virology and Microbiology, University Hospital of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
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7
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Gostaviceanu A, Gavrilaş S, Copolovici L, Copolovici DM. Membrane-Active Peptides and Their Potential Biomedical Application. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2091. [PMID: 37631305 PMCID: PMC10459175 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15082091] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Membrane-active peptides (MAPs) possess unique properties that make them valuable tools for studying membrane structure and function and promising candidates for therapeutic applications. This review paper provides an overview of the fundamental aspects of MAPs, focusing on their membrane interaction mechanisms and potential applications. MAPs exhibit various structural features, including amphipathic structures and specific amino acid residues, enabling selective interaction with multiple membranes. Their mechanisms of action involve disrupting lipid bilayers through different pathways, depending on peptide properties and membrane composition. The therapeutic potential of MAPs is significant. They have demonstrated antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi, making them promising alternatives to conventional antibiotics. MAPs can selectively target cancer cells and induce apoptosis, opening new avenues in cancer therapeutics. Additionally, MAPs serve as drug delivery vectors, facilitating the transport of therapeutic cargoes across cell membranes. They represent a fascinating class of biomolecules with significant potential in basic research and clinical applications. Understanding their mechanisms of action and designing peptides with enhanced selectivity and efficacy will further expand their utility in diverse fields. Exploring MAPs holds promise for developing novel therapeutic strategies against infections, cancer, and drug delivery challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Gostaviceanu
- Faculty of Food Engineering, Tourism and Environmental Protection, and Institute for Research, Development and Innovation in Technical and Natural Sciences, Aurel Vlaicu University, Elena Drăgoi St., No. 2, 310330 Arad, Romania; (A.G.); (S.G.); (L.C.)
- Biomedical Sciences Doctoral School, University of Oradea, University St., No. 1, 410087 Oradea, Romania
| | - Simona Gavrilaş
- Faculty of Food Engineering, Tourism and Environmental Protection, and Institute for Research, Development and Innovation in Technical and Natural Sciences, Aurel Vlaicu University, Elena Drăgoi St., No. 2, 310330 Arad, Romania; (A.G.); (S.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Lucian Copolovici
- Faculty of Food Engineering, Tourism and Environmental Protection, and Institute for Research, Development and Innovation in Technical and Natural Sciences, Aurel Vlaicu University, Elena Drăgoi St., No. 2, 310330 Arad, Romania; (A.G.); (S.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Dana Maria Copolovici
- Faculty of Food Engineering, Tourism and Environmental Protection, and Institute for Research, Development and Innovation in Technical and Natural Sciences, Aurel Vlaicu University, Elena Drăgoi St., No. 2, 310330 Arad, Romania; (A.G.); (S.G.); (L.C.)
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8
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Lima WG, de Lima ME. Therapeutic Prospection of Animal Venoms-Derived Antimicrobial Peptides against Infections by Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: A Systematic Review of Pre-Clinical Studies. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15040268. [PMID: 37104206 PMCID: PMC10143903 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15040268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections caused by multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDR-Ab) have become a public health emergency. Due to the small therapeutic arsenal available to treat these infections, health agencies have highlighted the importance of developing new antimicrobials against MDR-Ab. In this context, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) stand out, and animal venoms are a rich source of these compounds. Here, we aimed to summarize the current knowledge on the use of animal venom-derived AMPs in the treatment of MDR-Ab infections in vivo. A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The eight studies included in this review identified the antibacterial activity of eleven different AMPs against MDR-Ab. Most of the studied AMPs originated from arthropod venoms. In addition, all AMPs are positively charged and rich in lysine residues. In vivo assays showed that the use of these compounds reduces MDR-Ab-induced lethality and bacterial load in invasive (bacteremia and pneumonia) and superficial (wounds) infection models. Moreover, animal venom-derived AMPs have pleiotropic effects, such as pro-healing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, that help treat infections. Animal venom-derived AMPs are a potential source of prototype molecules for the development of new therapeutic agents against MDR-Ab.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Gustavo Lima
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Medicina-Biomedicina, Faculdade Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte 30150-250, MG, Brazil
| | - Maria Elena de Lima
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Medicina-Biomedicina, Faculdade Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte 30150-250, MG, Brazil
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9
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Roszkowiak J, McClean S, Mirończuk AM, Augustyniak D. The Direct Anti-Virulence but Not Bactericidal Activity of Human Neutrophil Elastase against Moraxella catarrhalis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076607. [PMID: 37047578 PMCID: PMC10094786 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neutrophil elastase (NE) contributes to innate antibacterial defense at both the intracellular (phagocytosis) and extracellular (degranulation, NETosis) levels. Moraxella catarrhalis, a human respiratory pathogen, can exist in an inflammatory milieu which contains NE. No data are available on the action of NE against M. catarrhalis or on the counteraction of NE-dependent host defenses by this pathogen. Using time-kill assays we found that bacteria are able to survive and replicate in the presence of NE. Transmission electron microscopy and flow cytometry studies with NE-treated bacteria revealed that while NE admittedly destabilizes the outer membrane leaflet, it does not cause cytoplasmic membrane rupture, suggesting that the enzyme does not target components that are essential for cell integrity. Using LC-MS/MS spectroscopy we determined that NE cleaved at least three virulent surface proteins in outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) of M. catarrhalis, including OMP CD, McaP, and TbpA. The cleavage of OMP CD contributes to the significant decrease in resistance to serum complement in the complement-resistant strain Mc6. The cleavage of McaP did not cause any sensitization to erythromycin nor did NE disturb its drug action. Identifying NE as a novel but subtle anti-virulence agent together with its extracellularly not-efficient bactericidal activity against M. catarrhalis may facilitate the pathogen’s existence in the airways under inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Roszkowiak
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wroclaw, 51-148 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Siobhán McClean
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Sciences and Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aleksandra M. Mirończuk
- Laboratory for Biosustainability, Institute of Environmental Biology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 51-631 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Daria Augustyniak
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wroclaw, 51-148 Wroclaw, Poland
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10
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Chianese A, Zannella C, Foglia F, Nastri BM, Monti A, Doti N, Franci G, De Filippis A, Galdiero M. Hylin-a1: A Host Defense Peptide with Antibacterial Potential against Staphylococcus aureus Multi-Resistant Strains. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16040509. [PMID: 37111266 PMCID: PMC10145825 DOI: 10.3390/ph16040509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the resistance of pathogenic microorganisms to common antimicrobial agents has raised to a severe public health problem. The moderate and wise use of antimicrobials and the prevention of infections are the most effective strategies for decreasing the spread and development of resistance. Therefore, the World Health Organization (WHO) has intensified the search for new drugs to fight emerging pathogens. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), also known as host defense peptides (HDPs), play a crucial role in innate immunity, representing one of the first line of defense against microbial attacks. In this study, we evaluated the antibacterial activity of the AMP named Hylin-a1 (derived from the skin of the frog Heleioporus albopunctatus) against Staphylococcus aureus strains. S. aureus represents a commensal bacterium but also the principal causative agent of several human infections, including bacteremia, endocarditis, skin and device-related infections. Hylin-a1 toxicity was evaluated on human keratinocytes; once the non-cytotoxic concentration range was determined, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were analyzed, and time-killing assays were performed to verify the bacteriostatic and/or bactericidal activity of the peptide. We found that Hylin-a1 exerted a bacteriostatic action against most of the tested strains, with 90% inhibition at the concentration of 6.25 μM. Noteworthy, the peptide at a very low concentration (~3 μM) significantly blocked the growth of β-lactam- and methicillin-resistant S. aureus. The levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 were quantified through a molecular assay, indicating that the peptide was able also to regulate the inflammatory response following bacterial infection. The effect of Hylin-a1 on S. aureus cell morphology was also evaluated. Altogether, these results indicate the high therapeutic potential of Hylin-a1 against a wide variety of clinical manifestations caused by S. aureus.
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Optimization of the Hemolysis Assay for the Assessment of Cytotoxicity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032914. [PMID: 36769243 PMCID: PMC9917735 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro determination of hemolytic properties is a common and important method for preliminary evaluation of cytotoxicity of chemicals, drugs, or any blood-contacting medical device or material. The method itself is relatively straightforward, however, protocols used in the literature vary substantially. This leads to significant difficulties both in interpreting and in comparing the obtained values. Here, we examine how the different variables used under different experimental setups may affect the outcome of this assay. We find that certain key parameters affect the hemolysis measurements in a critical manner. The hemolytic effect of compounds tested here varied up to fourfold depending on the species of the blood source. The use of different types of detergents used for generating positive control samples (i.e., 100% hemolysis) produced up to 2.7-fold differences in the calculated hemolysis ratios. Furthermore, we find an expected, but substantial, increase in the number of hemolyzed erythrocytes with increasing erythrocyte concentration and with prolonged incubation time, which in turn affects the calculated hemolysis ratios. Based on our findings we propose an optimized protocol in an attempt to standardize future hemolysis studies.
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Luo X, Chen H, Song Y, Qin Z, Xu L, He N, Tan Y, Dessie W. Advancements, challenges and future perspectives on peptide-based drugs: Focus on antimicrobial peptides. Eur J Pharm Sci 2023; 181:106363. [PMID: 36529161 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2022.106363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Among other health related issues, the rising concerns on drug resistance led to look for alternative pharmaceutical drugs that are effective both against infectious and noninfectious diseases. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) emerged as potential therapeutic molecule with wide range of applications. With their limitations, AMPs have gained reputable attentions in research as well as in the pharmaceutical industry. This review highlighted the historical background, research trends, technological advancements, challenges, and future perspectives in the development and applications of peptide drugs. Some vital questions related with the need for pharmaceutical production, factors for the slow and steady journey, the importance of oral bioavailability, and the drug resistance possibilities of AMPs were raised and addressed accordingly. Therefore, the current study is believed to provide a profound understanding in the past and current scenarios and future directions on the therapeutic impacts of peptide drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofang Luo
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center for Comprehensive Development and Utilization of Biomass Resources, College of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Hunan University of Science and Engineering, 425199 Yongzhou, China
| | - Huifang Chen
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center for Comprehensive Development and Utilization of Biomass Resources, College of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Hunan University of Science and Engineering, 425199 Yongzhou, China
| | - Yannan Song
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center for Comprehensive Development and Utilization of Biomass Resources, College of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Hunan University of Science and Engineering, 425199 Yongzhou, China
| | - Zuodong Qin
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center for Comprehensive Development and Utilization of Biomass Resources, College of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Hunan University of Science and Engineering, 425199 Yongzhou, China
| | - Lijian Xu
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China
| | - Nongyue He
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China
| | - Yimin Tan
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China.
| | - Wubliker Dessie
- Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center for Comprehensive Development and Utilization of Biomass Resources, College of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Hunan University of Science and Engineering, 425199 Yongzhou, China.
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Peng J, Wang Y, Wu Z, Mao C, Li L, Cao H, Qiu Z, Guo G, Liang G, Shen F. Antimicrobial Peptide Cec4 Eradicates Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in vitro and in vivo. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:977-992. [PMID: 37020803 PMCID: PMC10069437 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s405579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Acinetobacter baumannii has become a major difficulty in the treatment of bacteria-associated infection. The previously reported antimicrobial peptide Cec4 exhibited good and stable activity against A. baumannii in vitro, but the mechanisms and effects in vivo are elusive. Methods The effects of Cec4 on bacterial membrane permeability, membrane potential and bacterial reactive oxygen species were measured. The cell membrane localization of antimicrobial peptides was studied by fluorescence labelling. The ability of bacteria to develop resistance to antimicrobial peptides was studied by continuous induction, and transcriptome difference was analysed. The in vivo toxicity of Cec4 against nematodes and mice was studied, and the in vivo therapeutic potential of Cec4 against A. baumannii was assessed. Results Cec4 effectively cleared multidrug-resistant A. baumannii by altering bacterial cell membrane permeability, changing bacterial cell membrane polarity, and increasing bacterial intracellular reactive oxygen species. Cec4 affected the expression of the secretion system, outer membrane, and efflux pump genes of A. baumannii. In addition, the bacteria did not acquire stable drug-resistant ability. Cec4 at 1.024 mg/mL did not affect the proliferation of HeLa and HepG2 cells, and Cec4 at 45 mg/kg had little effect on the mortality of Caenorhabditis elegans, even the liver and kidney tissues of mouse. Most importantly, Cec4 could effectively improve the survival rates and reduce the bacterial load of various tissues in the mouse model of infection. Conclusion In conclusion, Cec4 can damage the cell membrane of bacteria, and the bacteria is not easy to produce resistance to Cec4. Besides, Cec4 has good potential for the treatment of multidrug-resistant A. baumannii infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Peng
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, People’s Republic of China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550025, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yue Wang
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550025, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhaoyin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550025, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chengju Mao
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550025, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, People’s Republic of China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huijun Cao
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, the affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhilang Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550025, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guo Guo
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550025, People’s Republic of China
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550025, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guiyou Liang
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, the affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, People’s Republic of China
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550025, People’s Republic of China
| | - Feng Shen
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, People’s Republic of China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550009, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Feng Shen; Guiyou Liang, Email ;
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Aguilar S, Brunetti AE, Garay AV, Santos LC, Perez LO, Moreira D, Cancelarich NL, Barbosa EA, Basso NG, de Freitas SM, Faivovich J, Brand G, Cabrera GM, Leite JRSA, Marani MM. Structure and function of cationic hylin bioactive peptides from the tree frog Boana pulchella in interaction with lipid membranes. Peptides 2023; 159:170900. [PMID: 36336169 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2022.170900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Amphibians have a great diversity of bioactive peptides in their skin. The cDNA prepro-peptide sequencing allowed the identification of five novel mature peptides expressed in the skin of Boana pulchella, four with similar sequences to hylin peptides having a cationic amphipathic-helical structure. Whole mature peptides and some of their fragments were chemically-synthesized and tested against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. The mature peptide hylin-Pul3 was the most active, with a MIC= 14 µM against Staphylococcus aureus. Circular dichroism assays indicated that peptides are mostly unstructured in buffer solutions. Still, adding large unilamellar vesicles composed of dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine and dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol increased the α-helix content of novel hylins. These results demonstrate the strong influence of the environment on peptide conformation and highlight its significance while addressing the pharmacology of peptides and their biological function in frogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Aguilar
- IPEEC-CONICET, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, U9120ACD Puerto Madryn, Argentina
| | - Andrés E Brunetti
- Laboratorio de Genética Evolutiva, Instituto de Biología Subtropical (CONICET-UNaM), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Químicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Misiones, N3300LQH Posadas, Argentina; Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Ciências Biomoleculares, Universidade de São Paulo, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Aisel Valle Garay
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Laboratório de Biofísica Molecular, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Liem Canet Santos
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Laboratório de Biofísica Molecular, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Luis O Perez
- IPCSH-CONICET, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Puerto Madryn, Argentina
| | - Daniel Moreira
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Morfologia e Imunologia Aplicada, NuPMIA, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, UnB, Brasília, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Natalia L Cancelarich
- IPEEC-CONICET, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, U9120ACD Puerto Madryn, Argentina
| | - Eder Alves Barbosa
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Morfologia e Imunologia Aplicada, NuPMIA, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, UnB, Brasília, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Néstor G Basso
- IDEAus-CONICET, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, U9120ACD Puerto Madryn, Argentina
| | - Sonia Maria de Freitas
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Laboratório de Biofísica Molecular, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Julián Faivovich
- División Herpetología, Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales 'Bernardino Rivadavia' (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Guilherme Brand
- Laboratório de Síntese e Análise de Biomoléculas, LSAB, Instituto de Química, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Gabriela M Cabrera
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EHA Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - José R S A Leite
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Morfologia e Imunologia Aplicada, NuPMIA, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, UnB, Brasília, 70910-900, Brazil; Laboratorio de Síntese e Análise de Biomolećulas, Instituto de Química, Universidade de Brasília, Brazil; Laboratorio de Espectrometria de Massa, EMBRAPA Recursos Genéticos e Biotecnología, Brasil, Instituto de Química, Universidade de Brasília, Brazil
| | - Mariela M Marani
- IPEEC-CONICET, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, U9120ACD Puerto Madryn, Argentina.
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Ouafa B, Ifriqya M, Ikram T. Evaluation of Biological Activities of Chamaeleo chamaeleon : A Reptile Used in Traditional Folk Medicine in Algeria. JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.51847/ed9gjaf2j7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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