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Emami S, Sadeghi M, Shahdin S, Daryani A, Khalilian A, Pirestani M, Hosseini SA, Montazeri M, Nejad ZH, Sarvi S. In Vitro Evaluation of Anti-Parasitic Activities of Quinolone-Coumarin Hybrids Derived from Fluoroquinolones and Novobiocin Against Toxoplasma gondii. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:1275-1283. [PMID: 38753101 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00852-9] [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: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Toxoplasmosis is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). In immunocompetent individuals, the infection is often asymptomatic; however, in expectant mothers and those with immune system deficiencies, complications may arise. Consequently, there is a need for new drugs that cause minimal damage to host cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the in vitro antiparasitic efficacy of quinolone-coumarin hybrids QC1-QC12, derived from quinolone antibacterials and novobiocin, against T. gondii. METHODS The derivatives were compared with novobiocin and ciprofloxacin during testing, with pyrimethamine used as a positive control. We conducted the MTT assay to examine the anti-toxoplasmic effects of the test compounds and novobiocin. Evaluation included the infection and proliferation indices, as well as the size and number of plaques, based on the viability of both healthy and infected cells. RESULTS The in vitro assays revealed that QC1, QC3, QC6, and novobiocin, with selectivity indices (SIs) of 7.27, 13.43, and 8.23, respectively, had the least toxic effect on healthy cells and the highest effect on infected cells compared to pyrimethamine (SI = 3.05). Compared to pyrimethamine, QC1, QC3, QC6, and novobiocin Without having a significant effect on cell viability, demonstrated a significant effect on reducing in both infection index and proliferation index, in addition to reducing the quantity and dimensions of plaques ( P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Based on our results, QC1, QC3, QC6, and novobiocin due to their significant therapeutic effects could be considered as potential new leads in the development of novel anti-Toxoplasma agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Emami
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mitra Sadeghi
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Disease Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shayesteh Shahdin
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Disease Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ahmad Daryani
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Disease Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Sari, Iran
| | - Alireza Khalilian
- Biostatistics Department, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Majid Pirestani
- Department of Parasitology, Tarbiat Modares University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Abdollah Hosseini
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Disease Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Sari, Iran
| | - Mahboobeh Montazeri
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Disease Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Zahra Hosseini Nejad
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Disease Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shahabeddin Sarvi
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Disease Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Sari, Iran.
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Sharma HN, Catrett J, Nwokeocha OD, Boersma M, Miller ME, Napier A, Robertson BK, Abugri DA. Anti-Toxoplasma gondii activity of Trametes versicolor (Turkey tail) mushroom extract. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8667. [PMID: 37248277 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35676-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection continues to rise globally in humans and animals with high socioeconomic and public health challenges. Current medications used against T. gondii infection are limited in efficacy, safety, and affordability. This research was conducted to assess the higher fungi extract effect on T. gondii tachyzoites growth in vitro and possibly decipher its mechanism of action. Furthermore, we evaluated the extract's effect on human foreskin fibroblast viability. The methanol extracts of Turkey tail (TT) mushroom was tested against T. gondii tachyzoites growth using an RH-RFP type I strain that expresses red fluorescent protein throughout culture in a dose-dependent manner using a fluorescent plate reader. Similarly, we tested the effect of the extract on host cell viability. We observed that TT extract inhibited tachyzoites growth with a 50% minimum inhibitory concentration (IC50s), IC50 = 5.98 ± 1.22 µg/mL, and 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC50s), CC50 ≥ 100 µg/mL. It was discovered that TT extract induced strong mitochondria superoxide and reactive oxygen species production and disrupted mitochondria membrane potential in T. gondii tachyzoites. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy depicted that TT extract and pyrimethamine (PY) caused a morphological deformation of tachyzoites in vitro. In conclusion, TT methanol extract made up of phytosterols, bioactive sphingolipids, peptides, phenolic acids, and lactones could be a promising source of new compounds for the future development of anti-Toxoplasma gondii drugs. Extracts were non-cytotoxic, even at higher concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Homa Nath Sharma
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA
- Microbiology Ph.D. Program, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA
- Laboratory of Ethnomedicine, Parasitology and Drug Discovery, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA
| | | | - Ogechi Destiny Nwokeocha
- Department of Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL, 36088, USA
- The School of Dentistry (SOD) Doctorate of Dentistry Program, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Melissa Boersma
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Science and Mathematics (COSAM), Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Michael E Miller
- Auburn University Research Instrumentation Facility, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Audrey Napier
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA
- Microbiology Ph.D. Program, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA
| | - Boakai K Robertson
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA
- Microbiology Ph.D. Program, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA
| | - Daniel A Abugri
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA.
- Microbiology Ph.D. Program, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA.
- Laboratory of Ethnomedicine, Parasitology and Drug Discovery, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, 36104, USA.
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Morais PAB, Francisco CS, de Paula H, Ribeiro R, Eloy MA, Javarini CL, Neto ÁC, Júnior VL. Semisynthetic Triazoles as an Approach in the Discovery of Novel Lead Compounds. CURR ORG CHEM 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/1385272825666210126100227] [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
Historically, medicinal chemistry has been concerned with the approach of organic
chemistry for new drug synthesis. Considering the fruitful collections of new molecular entities,
the dedicated efforts for medicinal chemistry are rewarding. Planning and search for new
and applicable pharmacologic therapies involve the altruistic nature of the scientists. Since
the 19th century, notoriously applying isolated and characterized plant-derived compounds in
modern drug discovery and various stages of clinical development highlight its viability and
significance. Natural products influence a broad range of biological processes, covering transcription,
translation, and post-translational modification, being effective modulators of most
basic cellular processes. The research of new chemical entities through “click chemistry”
continuously opens up a map for the remarkable exploration of chemical space towards leading
natural products optimization by structure-activity relationship. Finally, in this review, we expect to gather a
broad knowledge involving triazolic natural product derivatives, synthetic routes, structures, and their biological activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Alves Bezerra Morais
- Centro de Ciencias Exatas, Naturais e da Saude, Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, 29500000, Alegre, ES, Brazil
| | - Carla Santana Francisco
- Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Quimica, Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, 29075910, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Heberth de Paula
- Centro de Ciencias Exatas, Naturais e da Saude, Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, 29500000, Alegre, ES, Brazil
| | - Rayssa Ribeiro
- Programa de Pos- Graduacao em Agroquimica, Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, 29500000, Alegre, ES, Brazil
| | - Mariana Alves Eloy
- Programa de Pos- Graduacao em Agroquimica, Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, 29500000, Alegre, ES, Brazil
| | - Clara Lirian Javarini
- Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Quimica, Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, 29075910, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Álvaro Cunha Neto
- Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Quimica, Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, 29075910, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Valdemar Lacerda Júnior
- Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Quimica, Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, 29075910, Vitória, ES, Brazil
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Salin NH, Noordin R, Al-Najjar BO, Kamarulzaman EE, Yunus MH, Karim IZA, Nasim NNM, Zakaria II, Wahab HA. Identification of potential dual -targets anti- toxoplasma gondii compounds through structure-based virtual screening and in-vitro studies. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0225232. [PMID: 32442170 PMCID: PMC7244133 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is the etiologic agent of toxoplasmosis, a disease which can lead to morbidity and mortality of the fetus and immunocompromised individuals. Due to the limited effectiveness or side effects of existing drugs, the search for better drug candidates is still ongoing. In this study, we performed structure-based screening of potential dual-targets inhibitors of active sites of T. gondii drug targets such as uracil phosphoribosyltransferase (UPRTase) and adenosine kinase (AK). First screening of virtual compounds from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) was performed via molecular docking. Subsequently, the hit compounds were tested in-vitro for anti- T. gondii effect using cell viability assay with Vero cells as host to determine cytotoxicity effects and drug selectivities. Clindamycin, as positive control, showed a selectivity index (SI) of 10.9, thus compounds with SI > 10.9 specifically target T. gondii proliferation with no significant effect on the host cells. Good anti- T. gondii effects were observed with NSC77468 (7-ethoxy-4-methyl-6,7-dihydro-5H-thiopyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidin-2-amine) which showed SI values of 25. This study showed that in-silico selection can serve as an effective way to discover potentially potent and selective compounds against T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurul Hanim Salin
- Malaysian Institute of Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals, National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia, Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Rahmah Noordin
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Belal O. Al-Najjar
- Faculty of Pharmacy Al-Ahliyya Amman, University Amman Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | | | - Muhammad Hafiznur Yunus
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | | | - Nurul Nadieya Mohd Nasim
- Malaysian Institute of Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals, National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia, Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Iffah Izzati Zakaria
- Synthetic Biology & Cell Factories, Malaysia Genome Institute, National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia, Selangor, Gelugor, Malaysia
| | - Habibah A. Wahab
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- * E-mail:
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da Silva RJ, Gomes AO, Franco PS, Pereira AS, Milian ICB, Ribeiro M, Fiorenzani P, dos Santos MC, Mineo JR, da Silva NM, Ferro EAV, de Freitas Barbosa B. Enrofloxacin and Toltrazuril Are Able to Reduce Toxoplasma gondii Growth in Human BeWo Trophoblastic Cells and Villous Explants from Human Third Trimester Pregnancy. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:340. [PMID: 28798905 PMCID: PMC5526852 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Classical treatment for congenital toxoplasmosis is based on combination of sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine plus folinic acid. Due to teratogenic effects and bone marrow suppression caused by pyrimethamine, the establishment of new therapeutic strategies is indispensable to minimize the side effects and improve the control of infection. Previous studies demonstrated that enrofloxacin and toltrazuril reduced the incidence of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii infection. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of enrofloxacin and toltrazuril in the control of T. gondii infection in human trophoblast cells (BeWo line) and in human villous explants from the third trimester. BeWo cells and villous were treated with several concentrations of enrofloxacin, toltrazuril, sulfadiazine, pyrimethamine, or combination of sulfadiazine+pyrimethamine, and the cellular or tissue viability was verified. Next, BeWo cells were infected by T. gondii (2F1 clone or the ME49 strain), whereas villous samples were only infected by the 2F1 clone. Then, infected cells and villous were treated with all antibiotics and the T. gondii intracellular proliferation as well as the cytokine production were analyzed. Finally, we evaluated the direct effect of enrofloxacin and toltrazuril in tachyzoites to verify possible changes in parasite structure. Enrofloxacin and toltrazuril did not decrease the viability of cells and villous in lower concentrations. Both drugs were able to significantly reduce the parasite intracellular proliferation in BeWo cells and villous explants when compared to untreated conditions. Regardless of the T. gondii strain, BeWo cells infected and treated with enrofloxacin or toltrazuril induced high levels of IL-6 and MIF. In villous explants, enrofloxacin induced high MIF production. Finally, the drugs increased the number of unviable parasites and triggered damage to tachyzoite structure. Taken together, it can be concluded that enrofloxacin and toltrazuril are able to control T. gondii infection in BeWo cells and villous explants, probably by a direct action on the host cells and parasites, which leads to modifications of cytokine release and tachyzoite structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela J. da Silva
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Angelica O. Gomes
- Departament of Morphology, Federal University of Triângulo MineiroUberaba, Brazil
| | - Priscila S. Franco
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Ariane S. Pereira
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Iliana C. B. Milian
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Mayara Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Paolo Fiorenzani
- Department of Medical, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of SienaSiena, Italy
| | - Maria C. dos Santos
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - José R. Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Neide M. da Silva
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlandiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Eloisa A. V. Ferro
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Bellisa de Freitas Barbosa
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
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Review of Experimental Compounds Demonstrating Anti-Toxoplasma Activity. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2016; 60:7017-7034. [PMID: 27600037 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01176-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous apicomplexan parasite capable of infecting humans and other animals. Current treatment options for T. gondii infection are limited and most have drawbacks, including high toxicity and low tolerability. Additionally, no FDA-approved treatments are available for pregnant women, a high-risk population due to transplacental infection. Therefore, the development of novel treatment options is needed. To aid this effort, this review highlights experimental compounds that, at a minimum, demonstrate inhibition of in vitro growth of T. gondii When available, host cell toxicity and in vivo data are also discussed. The purpose of this review is to facilitate additional development of anti-Toxoplasma compounds and potentially to extend our knowledge of the parasite.
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Human toxoplasmosis–Searching for novel chemotherapeutics. Biomed Pharmacother 2016; 82:677-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.05.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
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Charvat RA, Arrizabalaga G. Oxidative stress generated during monensin treatment contributes to altered Toxoplasma gondii mitochondrial function. Sci Rep 2016; 6:22997. [PMID: 26976749 PMCID: PMC4792157 DOI: 10.1038/srep22997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The ionophore monensin displays potent activities against several coccidian parasites of veterinary and medical importance including the opportunistic pathogen of humans, Toxoplasma gondii. While monensin is used widely in animals, toxicity impedes its use in humans. Nonetheless, given its potency, understanding its mode of action would reveal vulnerable aspects of the parasite that can be exploited for drug development. We previously established that monensin induces Toxoplasma to undergo cell cycle arrest and an autophagy-like cell death. Interestingly, these effects are dependent on the mitochondrion-localized TgMSH-1 protein, suggesting that monensin disrupts mitochondrial function. We demonstrate that monensin treatment results in decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and altered morphology. These effects are mitigated by the antioxidant compound N-acetyl-cysteine suggesting that monensin causes an oxidative stress, which was indeed the case based on direct detection of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, over-expression of the antioxidant proteins glutaredoxin and peroxiredoxin 2 protect Toxoplasma from the deleterious effects of monensin. Thus, our studies show that the effects of monensin on Toxoplasma are due to a disruption of mitochondrial function caused by the induction of an oxidative stress and implicate parasite redox biology as a viable target for the development of drugs against Toxoplasma and related pathogenic parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Charvat
- Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, US
| | - Gustavo Arrizabalaga
- Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, US.,Departments of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, US
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O'Keeffe R, Kenny O, Brunton NP, Hossain MB, Rai DK, Jones PW, O'Brien N, Maguire AR, Collins SG. Synthesis of novel 24-amino-25,26,27-trinorlanost-8-enes: cytotoxic and apoptotic potential in U937 cells. Bioorg Med Chem 2015; 23:2270-80. [PMID: 25800433 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2015.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2014] [Revised: 01/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, the synthesis of a range of novel 24-amino-25,26,27-trinorlanost-8-ene derivatives including 24-piperadino-trinorlanost-8-enes, 24-piperazino-trinorlanost-8-enes, 24-morpholino-trinorlanost-8-enes, and 24-diethylamino-trinorlanost-8-enes is reported and their cytotoxic and apoptotic potential evaluated in U937 cell lines. Excellent IC₅₀ results for piperidine and 1-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazine derivatives have been observed (IC₅₀ values of 1.9 μM and 2.7 μM in U937 cells, respectively).
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Affiliation(s)
- Roisin O'Keeffe
- Department of Chemistry, Analytical and Biological Chemistry Research Facility, Synthesis and Solid State Pharmaceutical Centre, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - Olivia Kenny
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - Nigel P Brunton
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Mohammad B Hossain
- Food Biosciences Department, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin 15, Ireland
| | - Dilip K Rai
- Food Biosciences Department, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin 15, Ireland
| | - Peter W Jones
- Department of Zoology, Ecology and Plant Science, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - Nora O'Brien
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, University College Cork, Ireland.
| | - Anita R Maguire
- Department of Chemistry and School of Pharmacy, Analytical and Biological Chemistry Research Facility, Synthesis and Solid State Pharmaceutical Centre, University College Cork, Ireland.
| | - Stuart G Collins
- Department of Chemistry, Analytical and Biological Chemistry Research Facility, Synthesis and Solid State Pharmaceutical Centre, University College Cork, Ireland.
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Exploitation of auxotrophies and metabolic defects in Toxoplasma as therapeutic approaches. Int J Parasitol 2014; 44:109-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2013.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2013] [Revised: 09/22/2013] [Accepted: 09/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Porta EOJ, Carvalho PB, Avery MA, Tekwani BL, Labadie GR. Click chemistry decoration of amino sterols as promising strategy to developed new leishmanicidal drugs. Steroids 2014; 79:28-36. [PMID: 24200958 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2013.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2013] [Revised: 10/04/2013] [Accepted: 10/23/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
A series of 1,2,3-triazolylsterols was prepared from pregnenolone through reductive amination and copper(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (click chemistry). The newly generated stereocenter of the key propargylamino intermediate provided a mixture of diastereomers which were separated chromatographically, and the configuration of the R isomer was determined by X-ray crystallography. Ten triazolyl sterols were prepared, and the products and intermediates were screened in vitro against different parasites, with some compounds presenting IC50 values in the low micromolar range against Leishmania donovani.
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Affiliation(s)
- Exequiel O J Porta
- Instituto de Química Rosario (IQUIR-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, S2002LRK Rosario, Argentina
| | - Paulo B Carvalho
- School of Pharmacy, Notre Dame of Maryland University, Baltimore, MD 21210, USA
| | - Mitchell A Avery
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Babu L Tekwani
- National Center for Natural Products Research & Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Guillermo R Labadie
- Instituto de Química Rosario (IQUIR-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, S2002LRK Rosario, Argentina.
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Targeting lipid biosynthesis and salvage in apicomplexan parasites for improved chemotherapies. Nat Rev Microbiol 2013; 11:823-35. [DOI: 10.1038/nrmicro3139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Toxoplasma gondii, the agent that causes toxoplasmosis, is an opportunistic parasite that infects many mammalian species. It is an obligate intracellular parasite that causes severe congenital neurological and ocular disease mostly in immunocompromised humans. The current regimen of therapy includes only a few medications that often lead to hypersensitivity and toxicity. In addition, there are no vaccines available to prevent the transmission of this agent. Therefore, safer and more effective medicines to treat toxoplasmosis are urgently needed. AREAS COVERED The author presents in silico and in vitro strategies that are currently used to screen for novel targets and unique chemotypes against T. gondii. Furthermore, this review highlights the screening technologies and characterization of some novel targets and new chemical entities that could be developed into highly efficacious treatments for toxoplasmosis. EXPERT OPINION A number of diverse methods are being used to design inhibitors against T. gondii. These include ligand-based methods, in which drugs that have been shown to be efficacious against other Apicomplexa parasites can be repurposed to identify lead molecules against T. gondii. In addition, structure-based methods use currently available repertoire of structural information in various databases to rationally design small-molecule inhibitors of T. gondii. Whereas the screening methods have their advantages and limitations, a combination of methods is ideally suited to design small-molecule inhibitors of complex parasites such as T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandhya Kortagere
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Institute for Molecular Medicine, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, 2900, Queen Lane, PA 19129, USA.
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Kavitha N, Noordin R, Kit-Lam C, Sasidharan S. Real time anti-Toxoplasma gondii activity of an active fraction of Eurycoma longifolia root studied by in situ scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Molecules 2012; 17:9207-19. [PMID: 22858841 PMCID: PMC6268920 DOI: 10.3390/molecules17089207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2012] [Revised: 07/08/2012] [Accepted: 07/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The inhibitory effect of active fractions of Eurycoma longifolia (E. longifolia) root, namely TAF355 and TAF401, were evaluated against Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). In our previous study, we demonstrated that T. gondii was susceptible to TAF355 and TAF401 with IC₅₀ values of 1.125 µg/mL and 1.375 µg/mL, respectively. Transmission (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations were used to study the in situ antiparasitic activity at the IC₅₀ value. Clindamycin was used as positive control. SEM examination revealed cell wall alterations with formation of invaginations followed by completely collapsed cells compared to the normal T. gondii cells in response to the fractions. The main abnormality noted via TEM study was decreased cytoplasmic volume, leaving a state of structural disorganization within the cell cytoplasm and destruction of its organelles as early as 12 h of treatment, which indicated of rapid antiparasitic activity of the E. longifolia fractions. The significant antiparasitic activity shown by the TAF355 and TAF401 active fractions of E. longifolia suggests their potential as new anti-T. gondii agent candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nowroji Kavitha
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Rahmah Noordin
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Chan Kit-Lam
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Sreenivasan Sasidharan
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang 11800, Malaysia
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; ; Tel.: +604-653-4820; Fax: +604-653-4803
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Enrofloxacin is able to control Toxoplasma gondii infection in both in vitro and in vivo experimental models. Vet Parasitol 2012; 187:44-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2011] [Revised: 12/23/2011] [Accepted: 12/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Rodriguez JB, Szajnman SH. New antibacterials for the treatment of toxoplasmosis; a patent review. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2012; 22:311-33. [PMID: 22404108 DOI: 10.1517/13543776.2012.668886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunistic protozoan parasite responsible for toxoplasmosis. T. gondii is able to infect a wide range of hosts, particularly humans and warm-blooded animals. Toxoplasmosis can be considered as one of the most prevalent parasitic diseases affecting close to one billion people worldwide, but its current chemotherapy is still deficient and is only effective in the acute phase of the disease. AREAS COVERED This review covers different approaches to toxoplasmosis chemotherapy focused on the metabolic differences between the host and the parasite. Selective action on different targets such as the isoprenoid pathway, dihydrofolate reductase, T. gondii adenosine kinase, different antibacterials, T. gondii histone deacetylase and calcium-dependent protein kinases is discussed. EXPERT OPINION A new and safe chemotherapy is needed, as T. gondii causes serious morbidity and mortality in pregnant women and immunodeficient patients undergoing chemotherapy. A particular drawback of the available treatments is the lack of efficacy against the tissue cyst of the parasite. During this review a broad scope of several attractive targets for drug design have been presented. In this context, the isoprenoid pathway, dihydrofolate reductase, T. gondii histone deacetylase are promising molecular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Bautista Rodriguez
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Química Orgánica & UMYMFOR (CONICET-FCEyN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Pab 2, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, C1428EHA, Argentina.
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17
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NISHIKAWA Y, IBRAHIM HM, KAMEYAMA K, SHIGA I, HIASA J, XUAN X. Host Cholesterol Synthesis Contributes to Growth of Intracellular Toxoplasma gondii in Macrophages. J Vet Med Sci 2011; 73:633-9. [DOI: 10.1292/jvms.10-0496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshifumi NISHIKAWA
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
| | - Hany M. IBRAHIM
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Minufiya University
| | - Kyohko KAMEYAMA
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
| | - Ikumi SHIGA
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
| | - Jun HIASA
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
| | - Xuenan XUAN
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
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18
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Martins-Duarte ES, Lemgruber L, Lorente SO, Gros L, Magaraci F, Gilbert IH, de Souza W, Vommaro RC. Evaluation of three novel azasterols against Toxoplasma gondii. Vet Parasitol 2010; 177:157-61. [PMID: 21176865 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2010] [Revised: 11/19/2010] [Accepted: 11/23/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies from our group have demonstrated the high susceptibility of Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites to the sterol analogues 22,26-azasterol and 24,25-(R,S)-epiminolanosterol. In this work we present data on testing in vitro three novel azasterols as potential agents for the treatment of toxoplasmosis. The three compounds inhibited parasite growth at micromolar concentrations, in a dose-dependent manner. Electron microscopy analysis of intracellular tachyzoites after treatment with the most effective compound showed drastic mitochondrion swelling associated with the appearance of an electron-lucent matrix and disrupted cristae. Parasite lysis also took place. The appearance of electron dense cytoplasmic structures similar to amylopectin granules distributed throughout the parasite suggests that azasterols might be inducing differentiation of those tachyzoites which were not lysed to the bradyzoite stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica S Martins-Duarte
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Herth, Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, UFRJ, CCS, Bloco G, Av. Carlo, Chagas Filho, Cidade Universitária, Ilha do Fundão, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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19
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Ishida K, Rodrigues JCF, Ribeiro MD, Vila TVM, de Souza W, Urbina JA, Nakamura CV, Rozental S. Growth inhibition and ultrastructural alterations induced by Delta24(25)-sterol methyltransferase inhibitors in Candida spp. isolates, including non-albicans organisms. BMC Microbiol 2009; 9:74. [PMID: 19379501 PMCID: PMC2679025 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2180-9-74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2008] [Accepted: 04/20/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although Candida species are commensal microorganisms, they can cause many invasive fungal infections. In addition, antifungal resistance can contribute to failure of treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of inhibitors of Δ24(25)-sterol methyltransferase (24-SMTI), 20-piperidin-2-yl-5α-pregnan-3β-20(R)-diol (AZA), and 24(R,S),25-epiminolanosterol (EIL), against clinical isolates of Candida spp., analysing the ultrastructural changes. Results AZA and EIL were found to be potent growth inhibitors of Candida spp. isolates. The median MIC50 was 0.5 μg.ml-1 for AZA and 2 μg.ml-1 for EIL, and the MIC90 was 2 μg.ml-1 for both compounds. All strains used in this study were susceptible to amphotericin B; however, some isolates were fluconazole- and itraconazole-resistant. Most of the azole-resistant isolates were Candida non-albicans (CNA) species, but several of them, such as C. guilliermondii, C. zeylanoides, and C. lipolytica, were susceptible to 24-SMTI, indicating a lack of cross-resistance. Reference strain C. krusei (ATCC 6258, FLC-resistant) was consistently susceptible to AZA, although not to EIL. The fungicidal activity of 24-SMTI was particularly high against CNA isolates. Treatment with sub-inhibitory concentrations of AZA and EIL induced several ultrastructural alterations, including changes in the cell-wall shape and thickness, a pronounced disconnection between the cell wall and cytoplasm with an electron-lucent zone between them, mitochondrial swelling, and the presence of electron-dense vacuoles. Fluorescence microscopy analyses indicated an accumulation of lipid bodies and alterations in the cell cycle of the yeasts. The selectivity of 24-SMTI for fungal cells versus mammalian cells was assessed by the sulforhodamine B viability assay. Conclusion Taken together, these results suggest that inhibition of 24-SMT may be a novel approach to control Candida spp. infections, including those caused by azole-resistant strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Ishida
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular de Fungos, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
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20
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Particularities of mitochondrial structure in parasitic protists (Apicomplexa and Kinetoplastida). Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2009; 41:2069-80. [PMID: 19379828 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2009.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2008] [Revised: 04/07/2009] [Accepted: 04/09/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Without mitochondria, eukaryotic cells would depend entirely on anaerobic glycolysis for ATP generation. This also holds true for protists, both free-living and parasitic. Parasitic protists include agents of human and animal diseases that have a huge impact on world populations. In the phylum Apicomplexa, several species of Plasmodium cause malaria, whereas Toxoplasma gondii is a cosmopolite parasite found on all continents. Flagellates of the order Kinetoplastida include the genera Leishmania and Trypanosoma causative agents of human leishmaniasis and (depending on the species) African trypanosomiasis and Chagas disease. Although clearly distinct in many aspects, the members of these two groups bear a single and usually well developed mitochondrion. The single mitochondrion of Apicomplexa has a dense matrix and many cristae with a circular profile. The organelle is even more peculiar in the order Kinetoplastida, exhibiting a condensed network of DNA at a specific position, always close to the flagellar basal body. This arrangement is known as Kinetoplast and the name of the order derived from it. Kinetoplastids also bear glycosomes, peroxisomes that concentrate enzymes of the glycolytic cycle. Mitochondrial volume and activity is maximum when glycosomal is low and vice versa. In both Apicomplexa and trypanosomatids, mitochondria show particularities that are absent in other eukaryotic organisms. These peculiar features make them an attractive target for therapeutic drugs for the diseases they cause.
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21
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Moreno SNJ, Li ZH. Anti-infectives targeting the isoprenoid pathway of Toxoplasma gondii. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2008; 12:253-63. [PMID: 18269336 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.12.3.253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Isoprenoids are an extensive group of natural products with diverse structures consisting of various numbers of five carbon isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) units. OBJECTIVE We review here what is known about the isoprenoid pathway in T. gondii. METHODS Recent primary literature is reviewed. RESULTS/CONCLUSION Genomic evidence points toward the presence of a 1-deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate/2-C-methyl-D-erythritol 4-phosphate (DOXP/MEP) pathway, similar to the one found in plants, which will produce isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP). The DOXP/MEP pathway has been validated as a target in the related Apicomplexan parasite Plasmodium. The DOXP/MEP pathway in Toxoplasma has not been characterized. Downstream in the pathway, the enzyme farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FPPS) has a central role in forming important intermediates since farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) is a precursor of critical molecules with fundamental biological function such as dolichols, heme a, cholesterol, farnesylated proteins and others. Strong evidence indicates that this enzyme is a valid target for drugs since bisphosphonates, which are specific FPPS inhibitors, inhibited parasite growth in vitro and in vivo. Our hypothesis is that the isoprenoid pathway constitutes a major novel target for the treatment of toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia N J Moreno
- University of Georgia, Department of Cellular Biology and Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, 500 D. W. Brooks Dr, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA.
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22
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Martins-Duarte EDS, de Souza W, Vommaro RC. Itraconazole affects Toxoplasma gondii endodyogeny. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2008; 282:290-8. [PMID: 18371067 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6968.2008.01130.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The antifungal agent itraconazole is an effective drug against systemic mycoses inhibiting cytochrome P-450-mediated ergosterol synthesis, essential for fungal survival. In this work, we show the activity of this azole as a potential agent against Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis. Monolayers of LLC-MK2 epithelial cells infected with tachyzoites of RH strain were incubated with different concentrations of itraconazole for 24 and 48 h. The IC(50) values obtained were 114.0 and 53.6 nM for 24 and 48 h, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis of itraconazole-treated intracellular tachyzoites showed endoplasmic reticulum and nuclear envelope swelling. The drug also caused rupture of the parasite's surface membrane and affected the parasite's division by endodyogeny. This observation was confirmed both by fluorescence microscopy of cells labeled with diamidino-2-phenylindole and by three-dimensional reconstruction of serial thin sections analyzed by TEM. The treatment with itraconazole led to the formation of a mass of daughter cells, suggesting the interruption of the scission process during the parasite's cell division.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Dos Santos Martins-Duarte
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, CCS Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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23
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Maia C, Attias M, Urbina J, Gilbert I, Magaraci F, de Souza W. Azasterols impair Giardia lamblia proliferation and induces encystation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007; 363:310-6. [PMID: 17870055 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.08.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2007] [Accepted: 08/23/2007] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The effects of sterol biosynthesis inhibitors on growth and fine structure of Giardia lamblia P1 strain cultures were analyzed. Azasterols demonstrated high efficacy in killing cells. The IC(50) values for 22,26-azasterol and 24(R,S),25-epiminolanosterol were 7muM and 170nM, respectively. Morphological analysis showed that azasterols induced changes in G. lamblia ultrastructure. The most significant alterations were: (a) considerable increase of the size of the peripheral vesicles, which are part of the parasite endosomal-lysosomal system; (b) appearance of autophagosomal structures; and (c) induction of differentiation, followed by an abnormal enlargement of encystation secretory vesicles. We propose that azasterols are effective chemotherapeutic drugs against Giardia lamblia in vitro and may have another target in cells besides sterol biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Maia
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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24
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Rodrigues JCF, Bernardes CF, Visbal G, Urbina JA, Vercesi AE, de Souza W. Sterol methenyl transferase inhibitors alter the ultrastructure and function of the Leishmania amazonensis mitochondrion leading to potent growth inhibition. Protist 2007; 158:447-56. [PMID: 17719843 DOI: 10.1016/j.protis.2007.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2007] [Accepted: 05/07/2007] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We describe here the effects of Delta(24(25)) sterol methenyl transferase inhibitors (SMTI) on promastigote and axenic amastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis. When these cells were exposed to 20-piperidin-2-yl-5alpha-pregnan-3beta-20-diol (22,26-azasterol; AZA), hydrazone-imidazol-2-yl-5alpha-pregnan-3beta-ol (IMI), 20-hydrazone-pyridin-2-yl-5alpha-pregnan-3beta-ol (PYR) or 24(R,S),25-epiiminolanosterol (EIL), a concentration- and time-dependent inhibition of growth was observed, with IC(50) values in the sub-micromolar range. Ultrastructural alterations in treated cells were mainly observed in the mitochondrion, which displayed an intense swelling and a reduction of the electron density of the matrix with remarkable changes in the inner mitochondrial membranes. Mitochondrial transmembrane electric potential (DeltaPsi) was measured using spectrophotometric methods in control and treated promastigotes permeabilized with digitonin. After energization with the substrates for complexes I, II or IV of the respiratory chain, it was possible to detect marked changes of DeltaPsi in promastigotes treated with 1 microM of the SMTI for 48 or 72 h when compared with normal cells, indicating that these compounds led to the loss of the energy-transducing properties of the mitochondrial inner membrane, probably related to the alteration of its lipid composition. The present study confirms these findings, showing that in Leishmania amazonensis the mitochondrial complex appears to be the first organelle affected after treatment with different SMTI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliany C F Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, CCS-Bloco G, Ilha do Fundão, 21949-900 Rio de Janeiro-RJ, Brazil
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25
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Liñares GG, Gismondi S, Codesido NO, Moreno SNJ, Docampo R, Rodriguez JB. Fluorine-containing aryloxyethyl thiocyanate derivatives are potent inhibitors of Trypanosoma cruzi and Toxoplasma gondii proliferation. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2007; 17:5068-71. [PMID: 17643987 PMCID: PMC2707766 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2007.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2007] [Revised: 07/02/2007] [Accepted: 07/06/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
As a part of our project aimed at developing new safe chemotherapeutic and chemoprophylactic agents against tropical diseases, fluorine-containing drugs structurally related to 4-phenoxyphenoxyethyl thiocyanate (1) were designed, synthesized, and evaluated as antiproliferative agents against Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite responsible of American trypanosomiasis (Chagas' disease), and Toxoplasma gondii, the etiological agent of toxoplasmosis. This thiocyanate derivative had previously proven to be an effective agent against T. cruzi proliferation. Fluorine-containing thiocyanate derivatives 2 and 3 were threefold more potent than our lead drug 1 against intracellular T. cruzi. The biological evaluation against T. gondii was also very promising. The IC(50) values corresponding to 2 and 3 were at the very low micromolar level against tachyzoites of T. gondii. Both of these drugs are interesting examples of effective antiparasitic agents that have outstanding potential not only as lead drugs but also to be used for further in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guadalupe García Liñares
- Departamento de Química Orgánica and UMYMFOR (CONICET—FCEyN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Pabellón 2, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EHA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases and Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, 30602, U.S.A
| | - Santiago Gismondi
- Departamento de Química Orgánica and UMYMFOR (CONICET—FCEyN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Pabellón 2, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EHA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nicolás Osa Codesido
- Departamento de Química Orgánica and UMYMFOR (CONICET—FCEyN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Pabellón 2, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EHA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvia N. J. Moreno
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases and Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, 30602, U.S.A
| | - Roberto Docampo
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases and Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, 30602, U.S.A
| | - Juan B. Rodriguez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica and UMYMFOR (CONICET—FCEyN), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Pabellón 2, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EHA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Corresponding author. Tel.: +54 11 4576 3346; fax: +54 11 4576-3385; e-mail:
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Granthon AC, Braga MV, Rodrigues JCF, Cammerer S, Lorente SO, Gilbert IH, Urbina JA, de Souza W. Alterations on the growth and ultrastructure of Leishmania chagasi induced by squalene synthase inhibitors. Vet Parasitol 2007; 146:25-34. [PMID: 17367936 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2006.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2006] [Revised: 12/13/2006] [Accepted: 12/24/2006] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is an important disease in widely dispersed regions of the world. In South America, visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is mainly caused by Leishmania chagasi. The morbidity associated with the infection is high, and death may occur in some untreated patients. Treatment has been based upon pentavalent antimonial drugs for more than half a century and problems, including development of resistance to antimonials and lack of efficacy against VL/HIV co-infections, have emphasized the need for new drugs. Squalene synthase (SQS) is an essential enzyme for the biosynthesis of protozoal sterol molecules. In this work, nineteen synthetic quinuclidines, potentially inhibitors of SQS, were tested against promastigote forms of L. chagasi and the IC50 values of the compounds were determined. The most active compounds had IC50 values of around 30 nM and induced complete growth arrest and cell lysis at sub-micromolar concentrations. We analyzed the morphological structure of the parasites treated with these compounds by transmission electron microscopy of thin sections. Treated parasites showed significant ultrastructural changes, which varied from discrete alterations to total destruction of the cells, depending on the drug concentration and the time of incubation. One important change observed was a typical swelling of the unique and highly branched mitochondrion, where the inner membrane lost its organization. There was an increase in the number of autophagosomal structures. Changes in the organization of the nuclear chromatin and alterations in the flagellar pocket and flagellar membrane were also observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Claudia Granthon
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, CCS, Bloco G-subsolo, Ilha do Fundão, CEP 21949-900 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Abstract
As an actively dividing organism, the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii must adjust the size and composition of its membranes in order to accommodate changes due to housekeeping activities, to commit division and in fine to produce new viable progenies. Lipid inventory of T. gondii reveals that the biological membranes of this parasite are composed of a complex mixture of neutral and polar lipids. After examination of the origin of T. gondii membrane lipids, three categories of lipids can be described: (i) lipids scavenged by T. gondii from the host cell; (ii) lipids synthesized in large amounts by the parasite, independently from its host cell; and (iii) lipids produced de novo by the parasite, but whose synthesis does not come close to satisfying the entire parasite's needs. These latter must be adeptly acquired from the host environment. To this end, T. gondii diverts a large variety of lipid precursors from host cytoplasm and efficiently manufacture them into complex lipids. This rather remarkable reliance on host lipid resources for parasite survival opens new avenues to restrict parasite growth. Indeed, parasite starvation can be induced upon deprivation from essential host lipids. Lipid analogues with anti-proliferative properties are voraciously taken up by the parasites, which results in parasite membrane defects, and ultimately death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Coppens
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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Dantas-Leite L, Urbina JA, de Souza W, Vommaro RC. Antiproliferative synergism of azasterols and antifolates against Toxoplasma gondii. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2005; 25:130-5. [PMID: 15664482 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2004.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2004] [Accepted: 08/19/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The antiproliferative effects of two azasterols, 22,26-azasterol (20-piperidin-2-yl-5alpha-pregnan-3beta-20(R,S)-diol, AZA) and 24,25(R,S)-epiminolanosterol (EIL), in combination with sulphadiazine (SDZ) and pyrimethamine (PYR) were studied against Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites growing in cultured mammalian cells. We had previously shown that AZA and EIL, two known inhibitors of Delta24(25)sterol methyl transferase in fungi and protozoa, have a potent and selective anti-T. gondii activity, although no 24-alkyl sterols have been detected in this parasite. We now report that when these sterol analogues were used in combination with the conventional SDZ/PYR treatment, potent synergistic effects were observed, ranging from 10- to 100-fold reductions of the IC50 values in the presence of sub-optimal doses of azasterols. When exposed to these drug combinations, intracellular T. gondii parasites displayed diverse subcellular alterations, including mitochondrial swelling, the arrest of the endodiogeny process with fragmented nuclei and subsequent cell lysis. These results suggest a potential new approach for the treatment of toxoplasmosis, which could significantly lower the required levels of antifolates and thus their adverse side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Dantas-Leite
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Bloco G, CCS, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21949-9000 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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