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Zhao X, Hou T, Zhou H, Liu Z, Liu Y, Wang C, Guo Z, Yu D, Xu Q, Wang J, Liang X. Multi-effective components and their target mechanism of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen in the treatment of insomnia. Fitoterapia 2023; 171:105712. [PMID: 37884227 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2023.105712] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Insomnia is a common and refractory disease. Since more than 2000 years ago, people have been using Ziziphi Spinosae Semen (ZSS). However, there are lack of molecular mechanisms of sleep promotion effects of ZSS. The purpose of this study is to clarify the active ingredients in ZSS that are used to treat insomnia. Using a method called cellular label-free integrative pharmacology (CLIP), we established five insomnia-related target models, including serotonin (5HT2A and 5HT1A), melatonin (MT1), dopamine (D2) and epinephrine (β2) receptors. The one-dimensional (1D) fractions of ZSS extract were prepared on a RZC18 column and assayed on five models. Subsequently, the active fraction was further analyzed, fractionated and quantified using a two-dimensional (2D) liquid phase method coupled with a charged aerosol detector (CAD), This CAD-coupled 2D-LC method requires micro-fractions from the 1D separation and thus it greatly saves sample amounts and corresponding preparation time, and quickly conduct activity screening. The composition of the active 2D fractions was then determined using three-dimensional (3D) HPLC-MS, and molecular docking was separately carried out for the described compounds on the targets for activity prediction. Seven compounds were predicted to be active on 5HT2A, and two compounds on D2. We experimentally verified the prediction and found that vitexin exhibited D2 agonistic activity, and nuciferine exhibited 5HT2A antagonistic activity. This study revealed the effective components and their targets of ZSS in the treatment of insomnia, also highlighted the potential of the CLIP technique and bioactivity guided multi-dimensional HPLC-MS in molecular mechanism elucidation for traditional Chinese medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinwei Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Tao Hou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Han Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Ziling Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Yanfang Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Pharmacodynamic Material Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ganjiang Chinese Medicine Innovation Center, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Chaoran Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Zhimou Guo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Dongping Yu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Qing Xu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Pharmacodynamic Material Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ganjiang Chinese Medicine Innovation Center, Nanchang 330000, China
| | - Jixia Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Pharmacodynamic Material Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ganjiang Chinese Medicine Innovation Center, Nanchang 330000, China.
| | - Xinmiao Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Pharmacodynamic Material Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ganjiang Chinese Medicine Innovation Center, Nanchang 330000, China.
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Wu M, Qi F, Qiu R, Feng J, Ren X, Rong S, Ma H, Pan H, Chang D. OUP accepted manuscript. J AOAC Int 2022; 105:1175-1182. [PMID: 35167658 DOI: 10.1093/jaoacint/qsac024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mengdie Wu
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, 201318, China
| | - Feifan Qi
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, 201318, China
- University of Shanghai for science and technology, School of Medical Instrument and Food Engineering, Shanghai, 200093, China
| | - Ren Qiu
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, 201318, China
- University of Shanghai for science and technology, School of Medical Instrument and Food Engineering, Shanghai, 200093, China
| | - Jing Feng
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, The college of medical technology, Shanghai, 201318, China
| | - Xinshui Ren
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, 201318, China
| | - Shengzhong Rong
- Mudanjiang Medical University, Public Health School, Mudanjiang, 157011, China
| | - Hongkun Ma
- Mudanjiang Medical University, Public Health School, Mudanjiang, 157011, China
| | - Hongzhi Pan
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, 201318, China
| | - Dong Chang
- The Affiliated Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai, 201399, China
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Montazeri M, Fakhar M, Keighobadi M. The Potential Role of the Serotonin Transporter as a Drug Target against Parasitic Infections: A Scoping Review of the Literature. RECENT ADVANCES IN ANTI-INFECTIVE DRUG DISCOVERY 2022; 17:23-33. [PMID: 35249526 DOI: 10.2174/1574891x16666220304232301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several in vitro and in vivo biological activities of serotonin, 5- hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), as a bioactive molecule, and its transporter (5-HT-Tr) were evaluated in parasitic infections. OBJECTIVE Herein, the roles of 5-HT and 5-HTR in helminths and protozoan infections with medical and veterinary importance are reviewed. METHODS We searched information in 4 main databases and reviewed published literature about the serotonin transporter's role as a promising therapeutic target against pathogenic parasitic infections between 2000 and 2021. RESULTS Based on recent investigations, 5-HT and 5-HT-Tr play various roles in parasite infections, including biological function, metabolic activity, organism motility, parasite survival, and immune response modulation. Moreover, some of the 5-HT-TR in Schistosoma mansoni showed an excess of favorite substrates for biogenic amine 5-HT compared to their mammalian hosts. Furthermore, the main neuronal protein related to the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) was identified in S. mansoni and Echinococcus granulosus, playing main roles in these parasites. In addition, 5-HT increased in toxoplasmosis, giardiasis, and Chagas disease. On the other hand, in Plasmodium spp., different forms of targeted 5-HTR stimulate Ca2+ release, intracellular inositol triphosphate (ITP), cAMP, and protein kinase A (PKA) activity. CONCLUSION This review summarized the several functional roles of the 5-HT and the importance of the 5-HT-TR as a drug target with minimal harm to the host to fight against helminths and protozoan infections. Hopefully, this review will shed light on research regarding serotonin transporter-based therapies as a potential drug target soon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahbobeh Montazeri
- The Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- The Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mahdi Fakhar
- The Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- The Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Masoud Keighobadi
- The Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- The Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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Nuciferine, an active ingredient derived from lotus leaf, lights up the way for the potential treatment of obesity and obesity-related diseases. Pharmacol Res 2021; 175:106002. [PMID: 34826599 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.106002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Obesity, is an increasingly global public health problem associated complications. However, the proven anti-obesity agents are inefficient with adverse side effects; hence attention is being paid to novel drugs from natural resources to manage obesity and obesity-related diseases. Nuciferine (NF) is a high-quality aporphine alkaloid present in lotus leaf. Unlike the chemical drugs, NF elicits anti-obesity, anti-dyslipidemia, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hypouricemic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor effects, and affinity to neural receptors, and protection against obesity-related diseases. The underlying mechanism of NF includes the regulation of targeted molecules and pathways related to metabolism, inflammation, and cancer and modulation of Ca2+ flux, gut microbiota, and ferroptosis. Besides, the clinical application, availability, pharmacokinetics, pharmaceutics, and security of NF have been established, highlighting the potential of developing NF as an anti-obesity agent. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive summarization, which sheds light on future research in NF.
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Zhou H, Hou T, Gao Z, Guo X, Wang C, Wang J, Liu Y, Liang X. Discovery of eight alkaloids with D1 and D2 antagonist activity in leaves of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. Using FLIPR assays. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 278:114335. [PMID: 34139281 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Dopamine receptors are long-standing primary targets in the treatment of mental diseases and there is growing evidence that suggests relationships between obesity and the dopamine system, especially dopamine D1 and D2 receptors. Leaves of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (lotus leaves) have been medically used for helping long-term maintenance of weight loss. Whether and how components of lotus leaves function through the dopamine receptors remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY This work aimed to discover dopamine receptor-active alkaloids isolated from the lotus leaves, to evaluate their potencies and to analyze their structure activity relationship. MATERIALS AND METHODS Dried lotus leaves were prepared and total extract was divided into alkaloids and flavones. Eight alkaloids were separated and characterized by a combination of high-performance liquid chromatography, quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance, and assayed by a fluorometric imaging plate reader platform. Human embryonic kidney 239 cell lines expressing dopamine D1, D2 and serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors, respectively, were cultured and used in the assay. RESULTS Alkaloids in the lotus leaves were the bioactive phytochemicals and inhibited dopamine from accessing the D1 and D2 receptors. All eight compounds functioned as D1-receptor antagonists and except N-nornuciferine, seven alkaloids functioned as D2-receptor antagonists. (S)-coclaurine and (R)-coclaurine are optical isomers and antagonized both D1 and D2 with equivalent potencies, suggesting that the optical rotation of the methylene linker in the monobenzyl isoquinoline backbone did not influence their activity. Among the eight alkaloids, O-nornuciferine was the potent antagonist to both receptors (the lowest IC50 values, D1: 2.09 ± 0.65 μM and D2: 1.14 ± 0.10 μM) while N-nornuciferine was found to be the least potent as it moderately antagonized D1 and was inactive on D2. O-nornuciferine was also a 5-HT2A antagonist (IC50~20 μM) while N-nornuciferine had no activity. These hinted the importance of a methyl group attached to the nitrogen atom in the aporphine backbone. Armepavine showed a nearly 10-fold selectivity to D2. CONCLUSIONS In this work, eight alkaloids were isolated from the leaves of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. and assayed on the D1 and D2 receptors. They were D1/D2 antagonists with IC50 values in the mid- to low-micromolar range and O-nornuciferine was the most potent alkaloid among the eight. This family of alkaloids was biochemically evaluated on the dopamine receptors by the same platform for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Tao Hou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China; DICP-CMC Innovation Institute of Medicine, Taizhou, 225300, China
| | - Zhenhua Gao
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Hubei Minzu University, Enshi, 445000, China
| | - Xiujie Guo
- DICP-CMC Innovation Institute of Medicine, Taizhou, 225300, China
| | - Chaoran Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China; DICP-CMC Innovation Institute of Medicine, Taizhou, 225300, China.
| | - Jixia Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China.
| | - Yanfang Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Xinmiao Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
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Moreira-Filho JT, Silva AC, Dantas RF, Gomes BF, Souza Neto LR, Brandao-Neto J, Owens RJ, Furnham N, Neves BJ, Silva-Junior FP, Andrade CH. Schistosomiasis Drug Discovery in the Era of Automation and Artificial Intelligence. Front Immunol 2021; 12:642383. [PMID: 34135888 PMCID: PMC8203334 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.642383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by trematode worms of the genus Schistosoma and affects over 200 million people worldwide. The control and treatment of this neglected tropical disease is based on a single drug, praziquantel, which raises concerns about the development of drug resistance. This, and the lack of efficacy of praziquantel against juvenile worms, highlights the urgency for new antischistosomal therapies. In this review we focus on innovative approaches to the identification of antischistosomal drug candidates, including the use of automated assays, fragment-based screening, computer-aided and artificial intelligence-based computational methods. We highlight the current developments that may contribute to optimizing research outputs and lead to more effective drugs for this highly prevalent disease, in a more cost-effective drug discovery endeavor.
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Affiliation(s)
- José T. Moreira-Filho
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Arthur C. Silva
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Rafael F. Dantas
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Barbara F. Gomes
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lauro R. Souza Neto
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jose Brandao-Neto
- Diamond Light Source Ltd., Didcot, United Kingdom
- Research Complex at Harwell, Didcot, United Kingdom
| | - Raymond J. Owens
- The Rosalind Franklin Institute, Harwell, United Kingdom
- Division of Structural Biology, The Wellcome Centre for Human Genetic, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas Furnham
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bruno J. Neves
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Floriano P. Silva-Junior
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carolina H. Andrade
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
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Munday JC, Kunz S, Kalejaiye TD, Siderius M, Schroeder S, Paape D, Alghamdi AH, Abbasi Z, Huang SX, Donachie AM, William S, Sabra AN, Sterk GJ, Botros SS, Brown DG, Hoffman CS, Leurs R, de Koning HP. Cloning and functional complementation of ten Schistosoma mansoni phosphodiesterases expressed in the mammalian host stages. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008447. [PMID: 32730343 PMCID: PMC7430754 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Only a single drug against schistosomiasis is currently available and new drug development is urgently required but very few drug targets have been validated and characterised. However, regulatory systems including cyclic nucleotide metabolism are emerging as primary candidates for drug discovery. Here, we report the cloning of ten cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase (PDE) genes of S. mansoni, out of a total of 11 identified in its genome. We classify these PDEs by homology to human PDEs. Male worms displayed higher expression levels for all PDEs, in mature and juvenile worms, and schistosomula. Several functional complementation approaches were used to characterise these genes. We constructed a Trypanosoma brucei cell line in which expression of a cAMP-degrading PDE complements the deletion of TbrPDEB1/B2. Inhibitor screens of these cells expressing only either SmPDE4A, TbrPDEB1 or TbrPDEB2, identified highly potent inhibitors of the S. mansoni enzyme that elevated the cellular cAMP concentration. We further expressed most of the cloned SmPDEs in two pde1Δ/pde2Δ strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and some also in a specialised strain of Schizosacharomyces pombe. Five PDEs, SmPDE1, SmPDE4A, SmPDE8, SmPDE9A and SmPDE11 successfully complemented the S. cerevisiae strains, and SmPDE7var also complemented to a lesser degree, in liquid culture. SmPDE4A, SmPDE8 and SmPDE11 were further assessed in S. pombe for hydrolysis of cAMP and cGMP; SmPDE11 displayed considerable preferrence for cGMP over cAMP. These results and tools enable the pursuit of a rigorous drug discovery program based on inhibitors of S. mansoni PDEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane C. Munday
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Kunz
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines and Systems, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Titilola D. Kalejaiye
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Siderius
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines and Systems, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Daniel Paape
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ali H. Alghamdi
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Zainab Abbasi
- Biology Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sheng Xiang Huang
- Biology Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Anne-Marie Donachie
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Samia William
- Department of Pharmacology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, Egypt
| | - Abdel Nasser Sabra
- Department of Pharmacology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, Egypt
| | - Geert Jan Sterk
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines and Systems, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sanaa S. Botros
- Department of Pharmacology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, Egypt
| | - David G. Brown
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Charles S. Hoffman
- Biology Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Rob Leurs
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines and Systems, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harry P. de Koning
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
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The Journey to Discovering a Flatworm Target of Praziquantel: A Long TRP. Trends Parasitol 2019; 36:182-194. [PMID: 31787521 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2019.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 11/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Infections caused by parasitic flatworms impose a considerable worldwide health burden. One of the most impactful is schistosomiasis, a disease caused by parasitic blood flukes. Treatment of schistosomiasis has relied on a single drug - praziquantel (PZQ) - for decades. The utility of PZQ as an essential medication is, however, intertwined with a stark gap in our knowledge as to how this drug works. No flatworm target has been identified that readily explains how PZQ paralyzes and damages schistosomes. Recently, a schistosome ion channel was discovered that is activated by PZQ and displays characteristics which mirror key features of PZQ action on schistosomes. Here, the journey to discovery of this target, properties of this ion channel, and remaining questions are reviewed.
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Form and Function in the Digenea. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1154:3-20. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-18616-6_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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10
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Tierney AJ. Invertebrate serotonin receptors: a molecular perspective on classification and pharmacology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 221:221/19/jeb184838. [PMID: 30287590 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.184838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Invertebrate receptors for the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) have been identified in numerous species from diverse phyla, including Arthropoda, Mollusca, Nematoda and Platyhelminthes. For many receptors, cloning and characterization in heterologous systems have contributed data on molecular structure and function across both closely and distantly related species. This article provides an overview of heterologously expressed receptors, and considers evolutionary relationships among them, classification based on these relationships and nomenclature that reflects classification. In addition, transduction pathways and pharmacological profiles are compared across receptor subtypes and species. Previous work has shown that transduction mechanisms are well conserved within receptor subtypes, but responses to drugs are complex. A few ligands display specificity for different receptors within a single species; however, none acts with high specificity in receptors across different species. Two non-selective vertebrate ligands, the agonist 5-methoxytryptamine and antagonist methiothepin, are active in most receptor subtypes in multiple species and hence bind very generally to invertebrate 5-HT receptors. Future challenges for the field include determining how pharmacological profiles are affected by differences in species and receptor subtype, and how function in heterologous receptors can be used to better understand 5-HT activity in intact organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Jane Tierney
- Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Colgate University, Hamilton, NY 13346, USA
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11
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Marchant JS, Harding WW, Chan JD. Structure-activity profiling of alkaloid natural product pharmacophores against a Schistosoma serotonin receptor. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2018; 8:550-558. [PMID: 30297303 PMCID: PMC6287472 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin (5-HT) is an important regulator of numerous aspects of flatworm biology, ranging from neuromuscular function to sexual maturation and egg laying. In the parasitic blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni, 5-HT targets several G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), one of which has been demonstrated to couple to cAMP and regulate parasite movement. This receptor, Sm.5HTRL, has been successfully co-expressed in mammalian cells alongside a luminescent cAMP-biosensor, enabling pharmacological profiling for candidate anti-schistosomal drugs. Here, we have utilized this assay to perform structure-activity investigations of 143 compounds containing previously identified alkaloid natural product pharmacophores (tryptamines, aporphines and protoberberines) shown to regulate Sm.5HTRL. These experiments mapped regions of the tryptamine pharmacophore amenable and intolerant to substitution, highlighting differences relative to orthologous mammalian 5-HT receptors. Potent Sm.5HTRL antagonists were identified, and the efficacy of these compounds were evaluated against live adult parasites cultured ex vivo. Such structure-activity profiling, characterizing the effect of various modifications to these core ring systems on Sm.5HTRL responses, provides greater understanding of pharmacophores selective for this target to aid future drug development efforts. Various alkaloids were screened against a schistosome serotonin receptor, Sm.5HTRL. Compounds with a tryptamine core displayed agonist activity at Sm.5HTRL. Aporphine and protoberberine compounds displayed antagonist activity at Sm.5HTRL. Compound activity at Sm.5HTRL is broadly mirrored by motility effects on adult worms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan S Marchant
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 533226, USA
| | - Wayne W Harding
- Chemistry Department, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, 10065, USA; Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, CUNY Graduate Center, 365 5th Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA; Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, CUNY Graduate Center, 365 5th Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - John D Chan
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 533226, USA.
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Chan JD, Day TA, Marchant JS. Coalescing beneficial host and deleterious antiparasitic actions as an antischistosomal strategy. eLife 2018; 7:35755. [PMID: 30059006 PMCID: PMC6095690 DOI: 10.7554/elife.35755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional approaches for antiparasitic drug discovery center upon discovering selective agents that adversely impact parasites with minimal host side effects. Here, we show that agents with a broad polypharmacology, often considered ‘dirtier’ drugs, can have unique efficacy if they combine deleterious effects on the parasite with beneficial actions in the host. This principle is evidenced through a screen for drugs to treat schistosomiasis, a parasitic flatworm disease that impacts over 230 million people. A target-based screen of a Schistosoma serotoninergic G protein coupled receptor yielded the potent agonist, ergotamine, which disrupted worm movement. In vivo, ergotamine decreased mortality, parasite load and intestinal egg counts but also uniquely reduced organ pathology through engagement of host GPCRs that repressed hepatic stellate cell activation, inflammatory damage and fibrosis. The unique ability of ergotamine to engage both host and parasite GPCRs evidences a future strategy for anthelmintic drug design that coalesces deleterious antiparasitic activity with beneficial host effects. More than 200 million people worldwide are infected with parasitic worms that cause the disease schistosomiasis. Most cases occur in sub-Saharan Africa. Long-term infections can damage organs, and children who are affected may suffer delayed growth and learning difficulties. Despite its significant health and economic impact, schistosomiasis is still considered a ‘neglected’ tropical disease. This means there has not been adequate investment into developing new treatments or cures. A drug called praziquantel is currently the only treatment for schistosomiasis. However, the drug has unpleasant side effects, cannot cure all infected individuals, and there is a concern that worms may develop resistance to its effects. This means there is an urgent need to develop new therapies. One possible approach would be to develop drugs that interfere with the worm’s ability to move. Chan et al. screened thousands of existing chemicals for interactions with a protein that is known to control how the worms move. A drug called ergotamine, which is currently used to treat migraines, strongly interacted with the protein. Treating infected mice with ergotamine eliminated the parasites and reduced the organ damage caused by the infection. Praziquantel also reduced the number of parasites in the mice but it did not prevent organ damage. The results presented by Chan et al. show that a single drug can interact with targets in both the worm and the animals it infects. Searching for drugs that have this dual effect may help to develop more effective treatments for schistosomiasis and other diseases caused by parasites. Ergotamine itself is unlikely to be used to treat people for schistosomiasis because of the side effects produced when using it repeatedly. However, these findings will help researchers identify and develop safer drugs with similar benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Chan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, United States
| | - Timothy A Day
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, United States
| | - Jonathan S Marchant
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, United States
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13
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Camicia F, Celentano AM, Johns ME, Chan JD, Maldonado L, Vaca H, Di Siervi N, Kamentezky L, Gamo AM, Ortega-Gutierrez S, Martin-Fontecha M, Davio C, Marchant JS, Rosenzvit MC. Unique pharmacological properties of serotoninergic G-protein coupled receptors from cestodes. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006267. [PMID: 29425245 PMCID: PMC5823469 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cestodes are a diverse group of parasites, some of them being agents of neglected diseases. In cestodes, little is known about the functional properties of G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) which have proved to be highly druggable targets in other organisms. Notably, serotoninergic G-protein coupled receptors (5-HT GPCRs) play major roles in key functions like movement, development and reproduction in parasites. Methodology/Principal findings Three 5-HT GPCRs from Echinococcus granulosus and Mesocestoides corti were cloned, sequenced, bioinformatically analyzed and functionally characterized. Multiple sequence alignment with other GPCRs showed the presence of seven transmembrane segments and conserved motifs but interesting differences were also observed. Phylogenetic analysis grouped these new sequences within the 5-HT7 clade of GPCRs. Molecular modeling showed a striking resemblance in the spatial localization of key residues with their mammalian counterparts. Expression analysis using available RNAseq data showed that both E. granulosus sequences are expressed in larval and adult stages. Localization studies performed in E. granulosus larvae with a fluorescent probe produced a punctiform pattern concentrated in suckers. E. granulosus and M. corti larvae showed an increase in motility in response to serotonin. Heterologous expression revealed elevated levels of cAMP production in response to 5-HT and two of the GPCRs showed extremely high sensitivity to 5-HT (picomolar range). While each of these GPCRs was activated by 5-HT, they exhibit distinct pharmacological properties (5-HT sensitivity, differential responsiveness to ligands). Conclusions/Significance These data provide the first functional report of GPCRs in parasitic cestodes. The serotoninergic GPCRs characterized here may represent novel druggable targets for antiparasitic intervention. Cestode parasites are flatworms with the ability to parasitize almost every vertebrate species. Several of these parasites are etiological agents of neglected diseases prioritized by WHO, such as hydatid disease, or hydatidosis, a zoonosis caused by species of the genus Echinococcus that affects millions of people worldwide. Due to the scarcity of anthelmintic drugs available and the emergence of resistant parasites, the discovery of new anthelmintic drugs is mandatory. Neuromuscular function has been the target of commonly used drugs against parasitic diseases to impact movement, parasite development and reproduction. Here we describe three new proteins, some of them highly expressed in cestodes which could be relevant for motility. Using different approaches, the three proteins were identified as G protein coupled receptors for serotonin, an important neurotransmitter and a known modulator of cestode motility. These new receptors exhibit unique characteristics including a particular sensitivity to serotonin as well as a distinctive pharmacology, which will assist their targeting for chemotherapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Camicia
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPAM-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana M. Celentano
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPAM-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Microbiología, Parasitología e Inmunología, Paraguay, CABA, Argentina
| | - Malcolm E. Johns
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - John D. Chan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Lucas Maldonado
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPAM-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Hugo Vaca
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPAM-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nicolás Di Siervi
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Kamentezky
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPAM-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana M. Gamo
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Ortega-Gutierrez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mar Martin-Fontecha
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Davio
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jonathan S. Marchant
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy; Medical College of Wisconsin; Watertown Plank Road; Milwaukee; WI; United States of America
- * E-mail: (MCR); (JSM)
| | - Mara C. Rosenzvit
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPAM-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- * E-mail: (MCR); (JSM)
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14
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Hahnel S, Wheeler N, Lu Z, Wangwiwatsin A, McVeigh P, Maule A, Berriman M, Day T, Ribeiro P, Grevelding CG. Tissue-specific transcriptome analyses provide new insights into GPCR signalling in adult Schistosoma mansoni. PLoS Pathog 2018; 14:e1006718. [PMID: 29346437 PMCID: PMC5773224 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1006718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomes are blood-dwelling trematodes with global impact on human and animal health. Because medical treatment is currently based on a single drug, praziquantel, there is urgent need for the development of alternative control strategies. The Schistosoma mansoni genome project provides a platform to study and connect the genetic repertoire of schistosomes to specific biological functions essential for successful parasitism. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) form the largest superfamily of transmembrane receptors throughout the Eumetazoan phyla, including platyhelminths. Due to their involvement in diverse biological processes, their pharmacological importance, and proven druggability, GPCRs are promising targets for new anthelmintics. However, to identify candidate receptors, a more detailed understanding of the roles of GPCR signalling in schistosome biology is essential. An updated phylogenetic analysis of the S. mansoni GPCR genome (GPCRome) is presented, facilitated by updated genome data that allowed a more precise annotation of GPCRs. Additionally, we review the current knowledge on GPCR signalling in this parasite and provide new insights into the potential roles of GPCRs in schistosome reproduction based on the findings of a recent tissue-specific transcriptomic study in paired and unpaired S. mansoni. According to the current analysis, GPCRs contribute to gonad-specific functions but also to nongonad, pairing-dependent processes. The latter may regulate gonad-unrelated functions during the multifaceted male-female interaction. Finally, we compare the schistosome GPCRome to that of another parasitic trematode, Fasciola, and discuss the importance of GPCRs to basic and applied research. Phylogenetic analyses display GPCR diversity in free-living and parasitic platyhelminths and suggest diverse functions in schistosomes. Although their roles need to be substantiated by functional studies in the future, the data support the selection of GPCR candidates for basic and applied studies, invigorating the exploitation of this important receptor class for drug discovery against schistosomes but also other trematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Hahnel
- Institute of Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Nic Wheeler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Zhigang Lu
- Institute of Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, United Kingdom
| | - Arporn Wangwiwatsin
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, United Kingdom
| | - Paul McVeigh
- The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron Maule
- The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Berriman
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy Day
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Paula Ribeiro
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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15
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Reasons to Be Nervous about Flukicide Discovery. Trends Parasitol 2017; 34:184-196. [PMID: 29269027 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2017.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 11/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The majority of anthelmintics dysregulate neuromuscular function, a fact most prominent for drugs against nematode parasites. In contrast to the strong knowledge base for nematode neurobiology, resource and tool deficits have prevented similar advances in flatworm parasites since those driven by bioimaging, immunocytochemistry, and neuropeptide biochemistry 20-30 years ago. However, recent developments are encouraging a renaissance in liver fluke neurobiology that can now support flukicide discovery. Emerging data promote neuromuscular signalling components, and especially G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), as next-generation targets. Here, we summarise these data and expose some of the new opportunities to accelerate progress towards GPCR-targeted flukicides for Fasciola hepatica.
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Martin RJ, Wolstenholme AJ, Caffrey CR. Anthelmintics: From discovery to resistance II (San Diego, 2016). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2016; 6:297-298. [PMID: 27814986 PMCID: PMC5197440 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2016.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The second scientific meeting in the series: “Anthelmintics: From Discovery to Resistance” was held in San Diego in February, 2016. The focus topics of the meeting, related to anthelmintic discovery and resistance, were novel technologies, bioinformatics, commercial interests, anthelmintic modes of action and anthelmintic resistance. Basic scientific, human and veterinary interests were addressed in oral and poster presentations. The delegates were from universities and industries in the US, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. The papers were a great representation of the field, and included the use of C. elegans for lead discovery, mechanisms of anthelmintic resistance, nematode neuropeptides, proteases, B. thuringiensis crystal protein, nicotinic receptors, emodepside, benzimidazoles, P-glycoproteins, natural products, microfluidic techniques and bioinformatics approaches. The NIH also presented NIAID-specific parasite genomic priorities and initiatives. From these papers we introduce below selected papers with a focus on anthelmintic drug screening and development. Special Issue from the “Anthelmintics: From Discovery to Resistance II” meeting, San Diego, February 2016. Meeting themes: drug discovery, modes of action and resistance. Human and veterinary parasites covered. Academic and industrial attendees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Martin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
| | | | - Conor R Caffrey
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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17
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Chan JD, Grab T, Marchant JS. Kinetic profiling an abundantly expressed planarian serotonergic GPCR identifies bromocriptine as a perdurant antagonist. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2016; 6:356-363. [PMID: 27397764 PMCID: PMC5196488 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2016.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The diversity and uniqueness of flatworm G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) provides impetus for identifying ligands useful as tools for studying flatworm biology, or as therapeutics for treating diseases caused by parasitic flatworm infections. To catalyse this discovery process, technologies optimized for mammalian GPCR high throughput screening need be transposed for screening flatworm GPCRs. Here, we demonstrate the utility of a genetically encoded cAMP biosensor for resolving the properties of an abundantly expressed planarian serotonergic GPCR (S7.1R). Application of this methodology resolved the real time kinetics of GPCR modulation by ligands and demonstrated a marked difference in the kinetic action of antagonists at S7.1R. Notably, bromocriptine caused a protracted inhibition of S7.1R activity in vitro and a protracted paralysis of planarian movement, replicating the effect of S7.1R in vivo RNAi. The lengthy inhibition of function caused by bromocriptine at this abundantly expressed GPCR provides a useful tool to ablate serotonergic signaling in vivo, and is a noteworthy feature for exploitation as an anthelmintic vulnerability. Application of a real time cAMP biosensor to study a planarian serotonergic GPCR. The biosensor reveals differential kinetics of 5-HT GPCR inhibition by antagonists. Bromocriptine causes a persistent signaling inhibition and paralysis of intact worms. Bromocriptine action akin to a ‘pharmacological knockout’ of receptor function.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Chan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Thomas Grab
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Jonathan S Marchant
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA; Stem Cell Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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