1
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Oscherwitz M, Godinich BM, Singh N, Rohr BR. Beyond the shell: malacology in medical dermatology. Arch Dermatol Res 2024; 316:576. [PMID: 39180552 PMCID: PMC11344720 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-024-03343-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Max Oscherwitz
- Center for Dermatology Research, Department of Dermatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157-1071, USA.
| | - Brandon M Godinich
- Texas Tech Health Science Center El Paso Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Nupur Singh
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Bethany R Rohr
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
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2
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Geng XY, Wang MK, Hou XC, Wang ZF, Wang Y, Zhang DY, Danso B, Wei DB, Shou ZY, Xiao L, Yang JS. Comparative Analysis of Tentacle Extract and Nematocyst Venom: Toxicity, Mechanism, and Potential Intervention in the Giant Jellyfish Nemopilema nomurai. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:362. [PMID: 39195478 DOI: 10.3390/md22080362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The giant jellyfish Nemopilema nomurai sting can cause local and systemic reactions; however, comparative analysis of the tentacle extract (TE) and nematocyst venom extract (NV), and its toxicity, mechanism, and potential intervention are still limited. This study compared venom from TE and NV for their composition, toxicity, and efficacy in vitro and in vivo used RAW264.7 cells and ICR mice. A total of 239 and 225 toxin proteins were identified in TE and NV by proteomics, respectively. Pathological analysis revealed that TE and NV caused heart and liver damage through apoptosis, necrosis, and inflammation, while TE exhibited higher toxicity ex vivo and in vivo. Biochemical markers indicated TE and NV elevated creatine kinase, lactatedehydrogenase, and aspartate aminotransferase, with the TE group showing a more significant increase. Transcriptomics and Western blotting indicated both venoms increased cytokines expression and MAPK signaling pathways. Additionally, 1 mg/kg PACOCF3 (the phospholipase A2 inhibitor) improved survival from 16.7% to 75% in mice. Our results indicate that different extraction methods impact venom activities, tentacle autolysis preserves toxin proteins and their toxicity, and PACOCF3 is a potential antidote, which establishes a good extraction method of jellyfish venom, expands our understanding of jellyfish toxicity, mechanism, and provides a promising intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yu Geng
- Naval Medical Center of PLA, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200052, China
| | - Ming-Ke Wang
- Naval Medical Center of PLA, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200052, China
| | - Xiao-Chuan Hou
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Zeng-Fa Wang
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Die-Yu Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233030, China
| | - Blessing Danso
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Dun-Biao Wei
- Unit 92196 of the People's Liberation Army, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Zhao-Yong Shou
- Faculty of Health Service, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Liang Xiao
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Ji-Shun Yang
- Naval Medical Center of PLA, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200052, China
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3
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Michálek O, King GF, Pekár S. Prey specificity of predatory venoms. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024. [PMID: 38991997 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Venom represents a key adaptation of many venomous predators, allowing them to immobilise prey quickly through chemical rather than physical warfare. Evolutionary arms races between prey and a predator are believed to be the main factor influencing the potency and composition of predatory venoms. Predators with narrowly restricted diets are expected to evolve specifically potent venom towards their focal prey, with lower efficacy on alternative prey. Here, we evaluate hypotheses on the evolution of prey-specific venom, focusing on the effect of restricted diet, prey defences, and prey resistance. Prey specificity as a potential evolutionary dead end is also discussed. We then provide an overview of the current knowledge on venom prey specificity, with emphasis on snakes, cone snails, and spiders. As the current evidence for venom prey specificity is still quite limited, we also overview the best approaches and methods for its investigation and provide a brief summary of potential model groups. Finally, possible applications of prey-specific toxins are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondřej Michálek
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, Brno, 611 37, Czech Republic
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Stano Pekár
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, Brno, 611 37, Czech Republic
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4
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Bjørn-Yoshimoto WE, Ramiro IBL, Koch TL, Engholm E, Yeung HY, Sørensen KK, Goddard CM, Jensen KL, Smith NA, Martin LF, Smith BJ, Madsen KL, Jensen KJ, Patwardhan A, Safavi-Hemami H. Venom-inspired somatostatin receptor 4 (SSTR4) agonists as new drug leads for peripheral pain conditions. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.29.591104. [PMID: 38746149 PMCID: PMC11092515 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.29.591104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Persistent pain affects one in five people worldwide, often with severely debilitating consequences. Current treatment options, which can be effective for mild or acute pain, are ill-suited for moderate-to-severe persistent pain, resulting in an urgent need for new therapeutics. In recent years, the somatostatin receptor 4 (SSTR 4 ), which is expressed in sensory neurons of the peripheral nervous system, has emerged as a promising target for pain relief. However, the presence of several closely related receptors with similar ligand-binding surfaces complicates the design of receptor-specific agonists. In this study, we report the discovery of a potent and selective SSTR 4 peptide, consomatin Fj1, derived from extensive venom gene datasets from marine cone snails. Consomatin Fj1 is a mimetic of the endogenous hormone somatostatin and contains a minimized binding motif that provides stability and drives peptide selectivity. Peripheral administration of synthetic consomatin Fj1 provided analgesia in mouse models of postoperative and neuropathic pain. Using structure-activity studies, we designed and functionally evaluated several Fj1 analogs, resulting in compounds with improved potency and selectivity. Our findings present a novel avenue for addressing persistent pain through the design of venom-inspired SSTR 4 -selective pain therapeutics. One Sentence Summary Venom peptides from predatory marine mollusks provide new leads for treating peripheral pain conditions through a non-opioid target.
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5
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Zhang H, Wang J, Yang F. Design, synthesis and functional validation of peptide inhibitors based on TRPV1 ion channel agonist RhTx. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2024; 53:201-207. [PMID: 38501280 PMCID: PMC11057985 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2023-0465] [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: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To design and synthesize peptide inhibitors targeting transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) ion channel, and to validate their function. METHODS Based on previous studies on the relation of molecular structure and function of red head toxin (RhTx), a series of peptides were rationally designed and synthesized, with positive charged amino acids linked to the N terminus of RhTx. These Nplus-RhTx peptides were functionally validated by patch-clamp recordings in live cells. RESULTS Among the 8 synthesized Nplus-RhTx peptides, four inhibited TRPV1 ion channel activated by capsaicin with IC50 of (188.3±4.7), (193.6±18.0), (282.8±11.9) and (299.5±6.4) µmol/L, respectively. CONCLUSIONS It is feasible to develop TRPV1 peptide inhibitors by using rational design based on N terminal residues of RhTx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Zhang
- Department of Biophysics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Jiawei Wang
- Department of Biophysics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Biophysics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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6
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Möller IH, Seifert R. Presentation of pharmacological content in crime novels between 1890 and 2023. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03103-w. [PMID: 38643453 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03103-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
As there is lack of research on how drugs are presented in crime literature, we read nearly 25,000 pages of crime literature written between 1890 and 2023 to provide an overview on the pharmacological content in this genre. Correct presentation of pharmacological information decreased over time. Misconceptions about certain substances, especially narcotics and anesthetics appear in many of the analyzed examples. Also, in comparison with crime TV series, books are inferior in providing the reader with additional information and pharmacological plausibility. This especially applies for the newer books which contained less additional information than the older ones. In contrast, some books educate their readers. Newer books show a greater variety of substances also introducing recently developed drugs or new ways of application. On the contrary, older books stick to a small selection of well-known substances during that time, especially metals like arsenic and toxins like strychnine. Gender involvement in poisoning is not realistically presented in the novels. Male victims are overrepresented compared to reality. Also, the etiology is commonly presented incorrectly. Poisoning by accident or for suicidal purposes are rarely presented in the novels, despite their significance in reality. Overall, crime novels educate but also misinform their readers. We discuss the consequences of our findings for the individual reader and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iven H Möller
- Institute of Pharmacology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, D-30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Roland Seifert
- Institute of Pharmacology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, D-30625, Hannover, Germany.
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7
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Bispat AS, Cardoso FC, Hasan MM, Dongol Y, Wilcox R, Lewis RJ, Duggan PJ, Tuck KL. Inhibition of N-type calcium channels by phenoxyaniline and sulfonamide analogues. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:916-936. [PMID: 38516585 PMCID: PMC10953480 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00714f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Building on previous investigations, structural modifications to the neuronal calcium ion channel blocker MONIRO-1 and related compounds were conducted that included replacement of the amide linker with an aniline and isosteric sulfonamide moiety, and the previously used strategy of substitution of the guanidinium group with less hydrophilic amine functionalities. A comprehensive SAR study revealed a number of phenoxyaniline and sulfonamide compounds that were more potent or had similar potency for the CaV2.2 and CaV3.2 channel compared to MONIRO-1 when evaluated in a FLIPR-based intracellular calcium response assay. Cytotoxicity investigations indicated that the sulfonamide analogues were well tolerated by Cos-7 cells at dosages required to inhibit both calcium ion channels. The sulfonamide derivatives were the most promising CaV2.2 inhibitors developed by us to date due, possessing high stability in plasma, low toxicity (estimated therapeutic index > 10), favourable CNS MPO scores (4.0-4.4) and high potency and selectivity, thereby, making this class of compounds suitable candidates for future in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjie S Bispat
- School of Chemistry, Monash University Victoria 3800 Australia
- CSIRO Manufacturing, Research Way Clayton Victoria 3168 Australia
| | - Fernanda C Cardoso
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland St Lucia QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Md Mahadhi Hasan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland St Lucia QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Yashad Dongol
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland St Lucia QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Ricki Wilcox
- School of Chemistry, Monash University Victoria 3800 Australia
| | - Richard J Lewis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland St Lucia QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Peter J Duggan
- CSIRO Manufacturing, Research Way Clayton Victoria 3168 Australia
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University Adelaide South Australia 5042 Australia
| | - Kellie L Tuck
- School of Chemistry, Monash University Victoria 3800 Australia
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8
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Fedosov AE, Zaharias P, Lemarcis T, Modica MV, Holford M, Oliverio M, Kantor YI, Puillandre N. Phylogenomics of Neogastropoda: the backbone hidden in the bush. Syst Biol 2024:syae010. [PMID: 38456663 DOI: 10.1093/sysbio/syae010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The molluscan order Neogastropoda encompasses over 15,000 almost exclusively marine species playing important roles in benthic communities and in the economies of coastal countries. Neogastropoda underwent intensive cladogenesis in early stages of diversification, generating a 'bush' at the base of their evolutionary tree, that has been hard to resolve even with high throughput molecular data. In the present study to resolve the bush, we use a variety of phylogenetic inference methods and a comprehensive exon capture dataset of 1,817 loci (79.6% data occupancy) comprising 112 taxa of 48 out of 60 Neogastropoda families. Our results show consistent topologies and high support in all analyses at (super)family level, supporting monophyly of Muricoidea, Mitroidea, Conoidea, and, with some reservations, Olivoidea and Buccinoidea. Volutoidea and Turbinelloidea as currently circumscribed are clearly paraphyletic. Despite our analyses consistently resolving most backbone nodes, three prove problematic: First, uncertain placement of Cancellariidae, as the sister group to either a Ficoidea-Tonnoidea clade, or to the rest of Neogastropoda, leaves monophyly of Neogastropoda unresolved. Second, relationships are contradictory at the base of the major 'core Neogastropoda' grouping. Third, coalescence-based analyses reject monophyly of the Buccinoidea in relation to Vasidae. We analysed phylogenetic signal of targeted loci in relation to potential biases, and we propose most probable resolutions in the latter two recalcitrant nodes. The uncertain placement of Cancellariidae may be explained by orthology violations due to differential paralog loss shortly after the whole genome duplication, which should be resolved with a curated set of longer loci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander E Fedosov
- Department of Zoology, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Box 50007, 10405, Stockholm, Sweden
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, Paris, France
| | - Paul Zaharias
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Lemarcis
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, Paris, France
| | - Maria Vittoria Modica
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, Paris, France
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy
| | - Mandë Holford
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, Belfer Research Building, City University of New York, New York, USA
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology, the American Museum of Natural History, New York, USA
- PhD programs in Biology, Biochemistry, and Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, USA
| | - Marco Oliverio
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, Paris, France
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome. Zoology, Rome, Italy
| | - Yuri I Kantor
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, Paris, France
- A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nicolas Puillandre
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, Paris, France
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Hughey SB, Kotler JA, Ozaki Y, Itani Y, Fukuzawa F, Yanagimoto T, Takamatsu K, Koito S, Suzuki H, Nishihira Y, Hughey AC, Nagata T. Marine Envenomation in Okinawa: Overview and Treatment Concept. Wilderness Environ Med 2024; 35:57-66. [PMID: 38379485 DOI: 10.1177/10806032231220401] [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] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Okinawa prefecture is a popular tourist destination due to its beaches and reefs. The reefs host a large variety of animals, including a number of venomous species. Because of the popularity of the reefs and marine activities, people are frequently in close contact with dangerous venomous species and, thus, are exposed to potential envenomation. Commonly encountered venomous animals throughout Okinawa include the invertebrate cone snail, sea urchin, crown-of-thorns starfish, blue-ringed octopus, box jellyfish, and fire coral. The vertebrates include the stonefish, lionfish, sea snake, and moray eel. Treatment for marine envenomation can involve first aid, hot water immersion, antivenom, supportive care, regional anesthesia, and pharmaceutical administration. Information on venomous animals, their toxins, and treatment should be well understood by prehospital care providers and physicians practicing in the prefecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott B Hughey
- Naval Hospital Okinawa, Okinawa, Japan
- Naval Biotechnology Group, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, VA
| | - Joshua A Kotler
- Naval Biotechnology Group, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, VA
- III Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Shu Koito
- Naval Hospital Okinawa, Okinawa, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Takashi Nagata
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Japan Self-Defense Force Central Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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10
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Ratibou Z, Inguimbert N, Dutertre S. Predatory and Defensive Strategies in Cone Snails. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:94. [PMID: 38393171 PMCID: PMC10892987 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16020094] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cone snails are carnivorous marine animals that prey on fish (piscivorous), worms (vermivorous), or other mollusks (molluscivorous). They produce a complex venom mostly made of disulfide-rich conotoxins and conopeptides in a compartmentalized venom gland. The pharmacology of cone snail venom has been increasingly investigated over more than half a century. The rising interest in cone snails was initiated by the surprising high human lethality rate caused by the defensive stings of some species. Although a vast amount of information has been uncovered on their venom composition, pharmacological targets, and mode of action of conotoxins, the venom-ecology relationships are still poorly understood for many lineages. This is especially important given the relatively recent discovery that some species can use different venoms to achieve rapid prey capture and efficient deterrence of aggressors. Indeed, via an unknown mechanism, only a selected subset of conotoxins is injected depending on the intended purpose. Some of these remarkable venom variations have been characterized, often using a combination of mass spectrometry and transcriptomic methods. In this review, we present the current knowledge on such specific predatory and defensive venoms gathered from sixteen different cone snail species that belong to eight subgenera: Pionoconus, Chelyconus, Gastridium, Cylinder, Conus, Stephanoconus, Rhizoconus, and Vituliconus. Further studies are needed to help close the gap in our understanding of the evolved ecological roles of many cone snail venom peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahrmina Ratibou
- CRIOBE, UAR CNRS-EPHE-UPVD 3278, University of Perpignan Via Domitia, 58 Avenue Paul Alduy, 66860 Perpignan, France;
| | - Nicolas Inguimbert
- CRIOBE, UAR CNRS-EPHE-UPVD 3278, University of Perpignan Via Domitia, 58 Avenue Paul Alduy, 66860 Perpignan, France;
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11
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McMahon KL, Vetter I, Schroeder CI. Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Inhibition by µ-Conotoxins. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:55. [PMID: 38251271 PMCID: PMC10819908 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16010055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
µ-Conotoxins are small, potent pore-blocker inhibitors of voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels, which have been identified as pharmacological probes and putative leads for analgesic development. A limiting factor in their therapeutic development has been their promiscuity for different NaV channel subtypes, which can lead to undesirable side-effects. This review will focus on four areas of µ-conotoxin research: (1) mapping the interactions of µ-conotoxins with different NaV channel subtypes, (2) µ-conotoxin structure-activity relationship studies, (3) observed species selectivity of µ-conotoxins and (4) the effects of µ-conotoxin disulfide connectivity on activity. Our aim is to provide a clear overview of the current status of µ-conotoxin research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten L. McMahon
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- The School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Christina I. Schroeder
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
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12
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George AA, John SJ, Lucero LM, Eaton JB, Jaiswal E, Christensen SB, Gajewiak J, Watkins M, Cao Y, Olivera BM, Im W, McIntosh JM, Whiteaker P. Analogs of α-conotoxin PnIC selectively inhibit α7β2- over α7-only subtype nicotinic acetylcholine receptors via a novel allosteric mechanism. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23374. [PMID: 38161283 PMCID: PMC10782225 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
This study was undertaken to identify and characterize the first ligands capable of selectively identifying nicotinic acetylcholine receptors containing α7 and β2 subunits (α7β2-nAChR subtype). Basal forebrain cholinergic neurons express α7β2-nAChR. Here, they appear to mediate neuronal dysfunction induced by the elevated levels of oligomeric amyloid-β associated with early Alzheimer's disease. Additional work indicates that α7β2-nAChR are expressed across several further critically important cholinergic and GABAergic neuronal circuits within the central nervous system. Further studies, however, are significantly hindered by the inability of currently available ligands to distinguish heteromeric α7β2-nAChR from the closely related and more widespread homomeric α7-only-nAChR subtype. Functional screening using two-electrode voltage-clamp electrophysiology identified a family of α7β2-nAChR-selective analogs of α-conotoxin PnIC (α-CtxPnIC). A combined electrophysiology, functional kinetics, site-directed mutagenesis, and molecular dynamics approach was used to further characterize the α7β2-nAChR selectivity and site of action of these α-CtxPnIC analogs. We determined that α7β2-nAChR selectivity of α-CtxPnIC analogs arises from interactions at a site distinct from the orthosteric agonist-binding site shared between α7β2- and α7-only-nAChR. As numerous previously identified α-Ctx ligands are competitive antagonists of orthosteric agonist-binding sites, this study profoundly expands the scope of use of α-Ctx ligands (which have already provided important nAChR research and translational breakthroughs). More immediately, analogs of α-CtxPnIC promise to enable, for the first time, both comprehensive mapping of the distribution of α7β2-nAChR and detailed investigations of their physiological roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew A. George
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of MedicineVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
| | - Sabin J. John
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of MedicineVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
- Department of Life SciencesUniversity of BathBathUK
| | - Linda M. Lucero
- Department of NeurobiologyBarrow Neurological InstitutePhoenixArizonaUSA
| | - J. Brek Eaton
- Department of NeurobiologyBarrow Neurological InstitutePhoenixArizonaUSA
| | - Ekta Jaiswal
- Department of NeurobiologyBarrow Neurological InstitutePhoenixArizonaUSA
| | | | - Joanna Gajewiak
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | - Maren Watkins
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | - Yiwei Cao
- Department of ChemistryLehigh UniversityBethlehemPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | | - Wonpil Im
- Department of ChemistryLehigh UniversityBethlehemPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - J. Michael McIntosh
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
- George E. Wahlen Veterans Affairs Medical CenterSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | - Paul Whiteaker
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of MedicineVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
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Pereira AFM, Cavalcante JS, Angstmam DG, Almeida C, Soares GS, Pucca MB, Ferreira Junior RS. Unveiling the Pain Relief Potential: Harnessing Analgesic Peptides from Animal Venoms. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2766. [PMID: 38140106 PMCID: PMC10748172 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The concept of pain encompasses a complex interplay of sensory and emotional experiences associated with actual or potential tissue damage. Accurately describing and localizing pain, whether acute or chronic, mild or severe, poses a challenge due to its diverse manifestations. Understanding the underlying origins and mechanisms of these pain variations is crucial for effective management and pharmacological interventions. Derived from a wide spectrum of species, including snakes, arthropods, mollusks, and vertebrates, animal venoms have emerged as abundant repositories of potential biomolecules exhibiting analgesic properties across a broad spectrum of pain models. This review focuses on highlighting the most promising venom-derived toxins investigated as potential prototypes for analgesic drugs. The discussion further encompasses research prospects, challenges in advancing analgesics, and the practical application of venom-derived toxins. As the field continues its evolution, tapping into the latent potential of these natural bioactive compounds holds the key to pioneering approaches in pain management and treatment. Therefore, animal toxins present countless possibilities for treating pain caused by different diseases. The development of new analgesic drugs from toxins is one of the directions that therapy must follow, and it seems to be moving forward by recommending the composition of multimodal therapy to combat pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Flávia Marques Pereira
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP—Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu 01419-901, SP, Brazil;
| | - Joeliton S. Cavalcante
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP—Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu 01419-901, SP, Brazil; (J.S.C.); (D.G.A.)
| | - Davi Gomes Angstmam
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP—Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu 01419-901, SP, Brazil; (J.S.C.); (D.G.A.)
| | - Cayo Almeida
- Center of Mathematics, Computing Sciences and Cognition, Federal University of ABC, Santo André 09280-560, SP, Brazil;
| | - Gean S. Soares
- Delphina Rinaldi Abdel Azil Hospital and Emergency Room (HPSDRAA), Manaus 69093-415, AM, Brazil;
| | - Manuela B. Pucca
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University, Araraquara 14801-320, SP, Brazil;
| | - Rui Seabra Ferreira Junior
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP—Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu 01419-901, SP, Brazil;
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP—Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu 01419-901, SP, Brazil; (J.S.C.); (D.G.A.)
- Center for Translational Science and Development of Biopharmaceuticals FAPESP/CEVAP, São Paulo State University (UNESP—Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu 01419-901, SP, Brazil
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14
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Fedosov A, Tucci CF, Kantor Y, Farhat S, Puillandre N. Collaborative Expression: Transcriptomics of Conus virgo Suggests Contribution of Multiple Secretory Glands to Venom Production. J Mol Evol 2023; 91:837-853. [PMID: 37962577 PMCID: PMC10730640 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-023-10139-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Venomous marine gastropods of the family Conidae are among the most diversified predators in marine realm-in large due to their complex venoms. Besides being a valuable source of bioactive neuropeptides conotoxins, cone-snails venoms are an excellent model for molecular evolution studies, addressing origin of key innovations. However, these studies are handicapped by scarce current knowledge on the tissues involved in venom production, as it is generally assumed the sole prerogative of the venom gland (VG). The role of other secretory glands that are present in all Conus species (salivary gland, SG) or only in some species (accessory salivary gland, ASG) remains poorly understood. Here, for the first time, we carry out a detailed analysis of the VG, SG, and ASG transcriptomes in the vermivorous Conus virgo. We detect multiple transcripts clusters in both the SG and ASG, whose annotations imply venom-related functions. Despite the subsets of transcripts highly-expressed in the VG, SG, and ASG being very distinct, SG expresses an L-, and ASG-Cerm08-, and MEFRR- superfamily conotoxins, all previously considered specific for VG. We corroborate our results with the analysis of published SG and VG transcriptomes from unrelated fish-hunting C. geographus, and C. striatus, possibly fish-hunting C. rolani, and worm-hunting Conus quercinus. In spite of low expression levels of conotoxins, some other specific clusters of putative venom-related peptides are present and may be highly expressed in the SG of these species. Further functional studies are necessary to determine the role that these peptides play in envenomation. In the meantime, our results show importance of routine multi-tissue sampling both for accurate interpretation of tissue-specific venom composition in cone-snails, and for better understanding origin and evolution of venom peptides genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Fedosov
- Department of Zoology, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Box 50007, 10405, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, 57 rue Cuvier, CP 51, 75005, Paris, France.
| | - Carmen Federica Tucci
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, 57 rue Cuvier, CP 51, 75005, Paris, France
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università, 35020, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Yuri Kantor
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, 57 rue Cuvier, CP 51, 75005, Paris, France
- A. N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, 33 Leninski Prospect, Moscow, 119071, Russian Federation
| | - Sarah Farhat
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, 57 rue Cuvier, CP 51, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Puillandre
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, 57 rue Cuvier, CP 51, 75005, Paris, France
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15
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Siqueira-Silva T, Martinez PA. Impacts of climate change on the distribution of venomous Conus (Gastropoda: Conidae) species in the Indo-Pacific region. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 192:106237. [PMID: 37875034 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2023.106237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is affecting the distribution of marine organisms worldwide, including venomous marine gastropods that offer risks to human health, but also potential pharmacological resources, such as Conus sp. Species Distribution Models (SDMs) are valuable tools for predicting species distribution under climate change. The objective of our study was to evaluate the potential distribution of Conus geographus and C. textile in the Indo-Pacific region under different climate change scenarios for 2050 and 2090. We constructed SDMs with MaxEnt for each species, using bioclimatic variables from Bio-ORACLE and NOAA, and occurrence data from GBIF. We projected the best-fit model for the present and different future climate change scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, SSP5-8.5). We obtained high accuracy SDMs for C. geographus and C. textile, with Temperature and Primary Productivity as the main explanatory variables. Our future projections reveal that both species may react differently to climate change. Southeast Asia and Micronesia will continue to provide a climatically appropriate environment for both species; however, they may become more suitable for C. geographus and less suitable for C. textile. This may lead to a higher risk of human envenomation by C. geographus, but a lower risk by C. textile. A decreased suitability for C. textile may also lead to the loss of potential pharmacological resources among its range. Our study emphasizes how SDMs can be used to assess the future distribution of species with human health implications, which can aid in the monitoring of venomous marine species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuany Siqueira-Silva
- PIBi Lab - Laboratório de Pesquisas Integrativas em Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil.
| | - Pablo Ariel Martinez
- PIBi Lab - Laboratório de Pesquisas Integrativas em Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
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16
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Ahmadi S, Benard-Valle M, Boddum K, Cardoso FC, King GF, Laustsen AH, Ljungars A. From squid giant axon to automated patch-clamp: electrophysiology in venom and antivenom research. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1249336. [PMID: 37693897 PMCID: PMC10484000 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1249336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Ion channels play a crucial role in diverse physiological processes, including neurotransmission and muscle contraction. Venomous creatures exploit the vital function of ion channels by producing toxins in their venoms that specifically target these ion channels to facilitate prey capture upon a bite or a sting. Envenoming can therefore lead to ion channel dysregulation, which for humans can result in severe medical complications that often necessitate interventions such as antivenom administration. Conversely, the discovery of highly potent and selective venom toxins with the capability of distinguishing between different isoforms and subtypes of ion channels has led to the development of beneficial therapeutics that are now in the clinic. This review encompasses the historical evolution of electrophysiology methodologies, highlighting their contributions to venom and antivenom research, including venom-based drug discovery and evaluation of antivenom efficacy. By discussing the applications and advancements in patch-clamp techniques, this review underscores the profound impact of electrophysiology in unravelling the intricate interplay between ion channels and venom toxins, ultimately leading to the development of drugs for envenoming and ion channel-related pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Ahmadi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Melisa Benard-Valle
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | - Fernanda C. Cardoso
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Protein and Peptide Science, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Glenn F. King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Protein and Peptide Science, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Andreas Hougaard Laustsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Anne Ljungars
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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17
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Farhat S, Modica MV, Puillandre N. Whole Genome Duplication and Gene Evolution in the Hyperdiverse Venomous Gastropods. Mol Biol Evol 2023; 40:msad171. [PMID: 37494290 PMCID: PMC10401626 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msad171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The diversity of venomous organisms and the toxins they produce have been increasingly investigated, but taxonomic bias remains important. Neogastropods, a group of marine predators representing almost 22% of the known gastropod diversity, evolved a wide range of feeding strategies, including the production of toxins to subdue their preys. However, whether the diversity of these compounds is at the origin of the hyperdiversification of the group and how genome evolution may correlate with both the compounds and species diversities remain understudied. Among the available gastropods genomes, only eight, with uneven quality assemblies, belong to neogastropods. Here, we generated chromosome-level assemblies of two species belonging to the Tonnoidea and Muricoidea superfamilies (Monoplex corrugatus and Stramonita haemastoma). The two obtained high-quality genomes had 3 and 2.2 Gb, respectively, and 92-89% of the total assembly conformed 35 pseudochromosomes in each species. Through the analysis of syntenic blocks, Hox gene cluster duplication, and synonymous substitutions distribution pattern, we inferred the occurrence of a whole genome duplication event in both genomes. As these species are known to release venom, toxins were annotated in both genomes, but few of them were found in homologous chromosomes. A comparison of the expression of ohnolog genes (using transcriptomes from osphradium and salivary glands in S. haemastoma), where both copies were differentially expressed, showed that most of them had similar expression profiles. The high quality of these genomes makes them valuable reference in their respective taxa, facilitating the identification of genome-level processes at the origin of their evolutionary success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Farhat
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, Paris, France
| | - Maria Vittoria Modica
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms (BEOM), Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Roma, Italy
| | - Nicolas Puillandre
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, Paris, France
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18
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Hackney CM, Flórez Salcedo P, Mueller E, Koch TL, Kjelgaard LD, Watkins M, Zachariassen LG, Tuelung PS, McArthur JR, Adams DJ, Kristensen AS, Olivera B, Finol-Urdaneta RK, Safavi-Hemami H, Morth JP, Ellgaard L. A previously unrecognized superfamily of macro-conotoxins includes an inhibitor of the sensory neuron calcium channel Cav2.3. PLoS Biol 2023; 21:e3002217. [PMID: 37535677 PMCID: PMC10437998 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal venom peptides represent valuable compounds for biomedical exploration. The venoms of marine cone snails constitute a particularly rich source of peptide toxins, known as conotoxins. Here, we identify the sequence of an unusually large conotoxin, Mu8.1, which defines a new class of conotoxins evolutionarily related to the well-known con-ikot-ikots and 2 additional conotoxin classes not previously described. The crystal structure of recombinant Mu8.1 displays a saposin-like fold and shows structural similarity with con-ikot-ikot. Functional studies demonstrate that Mu8.1 curtails calcium influx in defined classes of murine somatosensory dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. When tested on a variety of recombinantly expressed voltage-gated ion channels, Mu8.1 displayed the highest potency against the R-type (Cav2.3) calcium channel. Ca2+ signals from Mu8.1-sensitive DRG neurons were also inhibited by SNX-482, a known spider peptide modulator of Cav2.3 and voltage-gated K+ (Kv4) channels. Our findings highlight the potential of Mu8.1 as a molecular tool to identify and study neuronal subclasses expressing Cav2.3. Importantly, this multidisciplinary study showcases the potential of uncovering novel structures and bioactivities within the largely unexplored group of macro-conotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celeste M. Hackney
- Department of Biology, Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Paula Flórez Salcedo
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Emilie Mueller
- Enzyme and Protein Chemistry, Section for Protein Chemistry and Enzyme Technology, Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Thomas Lund Koch
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lau D. Kjelgaard
- Department of Biology, Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maren Watkins
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Linda G. Zachariassen
- Department of Drug Design & Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Jeffrey R. McArthur
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - David J. Adams
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Anders S. Kristensen
- Department of Drug Design & Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Baldomero Olivera
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Rocio K. Finol-Urdaneta
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
- Electrophysiology Facility for Cell Phenotyping and Drug Discovery, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Helena Safavi-Hemami
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Jens Preben Morth
- Enzyme and Protein Chemistry, Section for Protein Chemistry and Enzyme Technology, Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Lars Ellgaard
- Department of Biology, Linderstrøm-Lang Centre for Protein Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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19
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Zhao L, Ma Y, Song X, Wu Y, Jin P, Chen G. PD-1: A New Candidate Target for Analgesic Peptide Design. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2023; 24:1142-1150. [PMID: 36781089 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pain is a common health problem in humans. The unique properties and valuable clinical applications of analgesic peptides make them attractive pharmacotherapy options for pain control. Numerous targets for pain modulation processes are currently known, including opioid receptors, transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, voltage-gated ion channels, neuronal nicotinic receptors, and neurotensin receptors. However, these targets are not able to address the development needs of peptide-based drugs. Recent studies revealed that programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) is widely expressed in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG), spinal cord, and cerebral cortex. PD-1 signaling in neurons is involved in the regulation of neuronal excitability, synaptic transmission, and synaptic plasticity. PD-1 is able to silence nociceptive neurons upon activation. Consistently, Pd1 deficiency or blockade increases the pain sensitivity in naïve mice. PD-1 agonists, including PD-L1 and H-20, evoke Src homology 2 domain-containing tyrosine phosphatase-1 (SHP-1) phosphorylation, modulate neuronal excitability, and attenuate acute and chronic pain with minimal opioid-related adverse effects, suggesting a superior therapeutic index and a sound strategy for the development novel nonopioid analgesics. In addition, PD-1 signaling in non-neuronal cells could alleviate chronic pain by regulating neuroinflammation. Here, we review the potential and challenges of PD-1 as a candidate target for the development of analgesic peptides. PERSPECTIVE: This review paper aims to review recent advances in research on PD-1 in the domain of pain interference, explore how to obtain more promising PD-1 receptor-targeting analgesic peptides based on PD-L1 and analgesic peptide H-20 for relieving pathological pain, and offer potential optimization strategies for follow-up work of H-20.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Zhao
- Center for Basic Medical Research, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yu Ma
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and the Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaofei Song
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and the Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yongjiang Wu
- Center for Basic Medical Research, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Pengjie Jin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Center for Basic Medical Research, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China; Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and the Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China; Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China; Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China.
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20
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Wu Y, Zhang J, Ren J, Zhu X, Li R, Zhangsun D, Luo S. Substitution of D-Arginine at Position 11 of α-RgIA Potently Inhibits α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:326. [PMID: 37367650 DOI: 10.3390/md21060326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Conotoxins are a class of disulfide-rich peptides found in the venom of cone snails, which have attracted considerable attention in recent years due to their potent activity on ion channels and potential for therapeutics. Among them, α-conotoxin RgIA, a 13-residue peptide, has shown great promise as a potent inhibitor of α9α10 nAChRs for pain management. In this study, we investigated the effect of substituting the naturally occurring L-type arginine at position 11 of the RgIA sequence with its D-type amino acid. Our results indicate that this substitution abrogated the ability of RgIA to block α9α10 nAChRs, but instead endowed the peptide with the ability to block α7 nAChR activity. Structural analyses revealed that this substitution induced significant alteration of the secondary structure of RgIA[11r], which consequently affected its activity. Our findings underscore the potential of D-type amino acid substitution as a promising strategy for designing novel conotoxin-based ligands targeting different types of nAChRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Wu
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Junjie Zhang
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Jie Ren
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Xiaopeng Zhu
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Rui Li
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Dongting Zhangsun
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Sulan Luo
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
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21
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Barraclough KA, Carey M, Winkel KD, Humphries E, Shay BA, Foong YC. Why losing Australia's biodiversity matters for human health: insights from the latest State of the Environment assessment. Med J Aust 2023; 218:336-340. [PMID: 37120765 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.51904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kenneth D Winkel
- Centre for Health Policy, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC
| | | | - Brooke Ah Shay
- Mala'la Health Service Aboriginal Corporation, Maningrida, NT
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22
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Groome JR. Historical Perspective of the Characterization of Conotoxins Targeting Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:md21040209. [PMID: 37103349 PMCID: PMC10142487 DOI: 10.3390/md21040209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Marine toxins have potent actions on diverse sodium ion channels regulated by transmembrane voltage (voltage-gated ion channels) or by neurotransmitters (nicotinic acetylcholine receptor channels). Studies of these toxins have focused on varied aspects of venom peptides ranging from evolutionary relationships of predator and prey, biological actions on excitable tissues, potential application as pharmacological intervention in disease therapy, and as part of multiple experimental approaches towards an understanding of the atomistic characterization of ion channel structure. This review examines the historical perspective of the study of conotoxin peptides active on sodium channels gated by transmembrane voltage, which has led to recent advances in ion channel research made possible with the exploitation of the diversity of these marine toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Groome
- Department of Biological Sciences, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA
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23
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Nguyen LTT, Craik DJ, Kaas Q. Bibliometric Review of the Literature on Cone Snail Peptide Toxins from 2000 to 2022. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:md21030154. [PMID: 36976203 PMCID: PMC10058278 DOI: 10.3390/md21030154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The venom of marine cone snails is mainly composed of peptide toxins called conopeptides, among which conotoxins represent those that are disulfide-rich. Publications on conopeptides frequently state that conopeptides attract considerable interest for their potent and selective activity, but there has been no analysis yet that formally quantifies the popularity of the field. We fill this gap here by providing a bibliometric analysis of the literature on cone snail toxins from 2000 to 2022. Our analysis of 3028 research articles and 393 reviews revealed that research in the conopeptide field is indeed prolific, with an average of 130 research articles per year. The data show that the research is typically carried out collaboratively and worldwide, and that discoveries are truly a community-based effort. An analysis of the keywords provided with each article revealed research trends, their evolution over the studied period, and important milestones. The most employed keywords are related to pharmacology and medicinal chemistry. In 2004, the trend in keywords changed, with the pivotal event of that year being the approval by the FDA of the first peptide toxin drug, ziconotide, a conopeptide, for the treatment of intractable pain. The corresponding research article is among the top ten most cited articles in the conopeptide literature. From the time of that article, medicinal chemistry aiming at engineering conopeptides to treat neuropathic pain ramped up, as seen by an increased focus on topological modifications (e.g., cyclization), electrophysiology, and structural biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linh T. T. Nguyen
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - David J. Craik
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Quentin Kaas
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Structure-guided peptide engineering of a positive allosteric modulator targeting the outer pore of TRPV1 for long-lasting analgesia. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4. [PMID: 36596769 PMCID: PMC9810691 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34817-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) ion channel is a classic analgesic target, but antagonists of TRPV1 failed in clinical trials due to their side effects like hyperthermia. Here we rationally engineer a peptide s-RhTx as a positive allosteric modulator (PAM) of TRPV1. Patch-clamp recordings demonstrate s-RhTx selectively potentiated TRPV1 activation. s-RhTx also slows down capsaicin-induced desensitization of TRPV1 in the presence of calcium to cause more calcium influx in TRPV1-expressing cells. In addition, our thermodynamic mutant cycle analysis shows that E652 in TRPV1 outer pore specifically interacts with R12 and K22 in s-RhTx. Furthermore, we demonstrate in vivo that s-RhTx exhibits long-lasting analgesic effects in noxious heat hyperalgesia and CFA-induced chronic inflammatory pain by promoting the reversible degeneration of intra-epidermal nerve fiber (IENF) expressing TRPV1 channels in mice, while their body temperature remains unaffected. Our results suggest s-RhTx is an analgesic agent as a PAM of TRPV1.
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25
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Mohamed AA, Nabil ZI, El-Naggar MS. Prospecting for candidate molecules from Conus virgo toxins to develop new biopharmaceuticals. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2022; 28:e20220028. [PMID: 36545288 PMCID: PMC9761950 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2022-0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A combination of pharmacological and biomedical assays was applied in this study to examine the bioactivity of Conus virgo crude venom in order to determine the potential pharmacological benefit of this venom, and its in vivo mechanism of action. Methods Two doses (1/5 and 1/10 of LC50, 9.14 and 4.57 mg/kg) of the venom were used in pharmacological assays (central and peripheral analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic), while 1/2 of LC50 (22.85 mg/kg) was used in cytotoxic assays on experimental animals at different time intervals, and then compared with control and reference drug groups. Results The tail immersion time was significantly increased in venom-treated mice compared with the control group. Also, a significant reduction in writhing movement was recorded after injection of both venom doses compared with the control group. In addition, only the high venom concentration has a mild anti-inflammatory effect at the late inflammation stage. The induced pyrexia was also decreased significantly after treatment with both venom doses. On the other hand, significant increases were observed in lipid peroxidation (after 4 hours) and reduced glutathione contents and glutathione peroxidase activity, while contents of lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide (after 24 hours) and catalase activity were depleted significantly after venom administration. Conclusion These results indicated that the crude venom of Conus virgo probably contain bioactive components that have pharmacological activities with low cytotoxic effects. Therefore, it may comprise a potential lead compound for the development of drugs that would control pain and pyrexia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anas A. Mohamed
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt.,Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Zohour I. Nabil
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Mohamed S. El-Naggar
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt.,Correspondence:
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26
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Rivera-Jiménez J, Berraquero-García C, Pérez-Gálvez R, García-Moreno PJ, Espejo-Carpio FJ, Guadix A, Guadix EM. Peptides and protein hydrolysates exhibiting anti-inflammatory activity: sources, structural features and modulation mechanisms. Food Funct 2022; 13:12510-12540. [PMID: 36420754 DOI: 10.1039/d2fo02223k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation is the response of the immune system to harmful stimuli such as tissue injury, infection or toxic chemicals, which has the aim of eliminating irritants or pathogenic microorganisms and enhancing tissue repair. Uncontrolled long-lasting acute inflammation can gradually progress to chronic, causing a variety of chronic inflammatory diseases that are usually treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, but most of them are inadequate to control chronic responses and are also associated with adverse side effects. Thus, many efforts are being directed to develop alternative and more selective anti-inflammatory therapies from natural products. One main field of interest is the obtaining of bioactive peptides exhibiting anti-inflammatory activity from sustainable protein sources like edible insects or agroindustry and fishing by-products. This work highlighted the structure-activity relationship of anti-inflammatory peptides. Small peptides with molecular weight under 1 kDa and amino acid chain length between 2 to 20 residues are generally the most active because of the higher probability to be absorbed in the intestine and penetrate into cells when compared with the larger size peptides. The presence of hydrophobic (Val, Ile, Pro) and positively charged (His, Arg, Lys) amino acids is another common occurrence for anti-inflammatory peptides. Interestingly, a high percentage (77%) of these bioactive peptides can be found in alternative sustainable protein sources such as Tenebrio molitor or sunflower, apart from its original protein source. However, not all of these peptides with anti-inflammatory potential in vitro achieve good scores by the in silico bioactivity predictors studied. Therefore, it is essential to implement current bioinformatics tools, in order to complement in vitro experiments with prior prediction of potential bioactive peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Rivera-Jiménez
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain.
| | | | - Raúl Pérez-Gálvez
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain.
| | | | | | - Antonio Guadix
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain.
| | - Emilia M Guadix
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain.
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Conus regius-Derived Conotoxins: Novel Therapeutic Opportunities from a Marine Organism. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20120773. [PMID: 36547920 PMCID: PMC9783627 DOI: 10.3390/md20120773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Conus regius is a marine venomous mollusk of the Conus genus that captures its prey by injecting a rich cocktail of bioactive disulfide bond rich peptides called conotoxins. These peptides selectively target a broad range of ion channels, membrane receptors, transporters, and enzymes, making them valuable pharmacological tools and potential drug leads. C. regius-derived conotoxins are particularly attractive due to their marked potency and selectivity against specific nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subtypes, whose signalling is involved in pain, cognitive disorders, drug addiction, and cancer. However, the species-specific differences in sensitivity and the low stability and bioavailability of these conotoxins limit their clinical development as novel therapeutic agents for these disorders. Here, we give an overview of the main pharmacological features of the C. regius-derived conotoxins described so far, focusing on the molecular mechanisms underlying their potential therapeutic effects. Additionally, we describe adoptable chemical engineering solutions to improve their pharmacological properties for future potential clinical translation.
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28
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Conotoxin Patenting Trends in Academia and Industry. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20080531. [PMID: 36005534 PMCID: PMC9410114 DOI: 10.3390/md20080531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sea snails of the genus Conus produce toxins that have been the subjects of numerous studies, projects, publications, and patents over the years. Since Conus toxins were discovered in the 1960s, their biological activity has been thought to have high pharmaceutical potential that could be explored beyond the limits of academic laboratories. We reviewed 224 patent documents related to conotoxins and conopeptides globally to determine the course that innovation and development has taken over the years, their primary applications, the technological trends over the last six years, and the leaders in the field, since the only previous patent review was performed in 2015 and focused in USA valid patents. In addition, we explored which countries/territories protect their inventions and patents and the most relevant collaborations among assignees. We also evaluated whether academia or pharmaceutical companies are the future of conotoxin research. We concluded that the 224 conotoxin patents reviewed in this study have more academic value than industrial value, which was noted by the number of active patents that have not yet been licensed and the contributions to medical research, especially as tools to study neuropathic pain, inflammation, immunology, drug design, receptor binding sites, cancer, neurotransmission, epilepsy, peptide biosynthesis, and depression. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current state of conotoxin patents, their main applications, and success based on the number of licensing and products in the market.
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29
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Pina LTS, Rabelo TK, Trindade GGG, Almeida IKS, Oliveira MA, Dos Santos PL, Souza DS, de Menezes-Filho JER, de Vasconcelos CML, Santos SL, Scotti L, Scotti MT, Araújo AAS, Quintans JSS, Quintans LJ, Guimarães AG. γ-Terpinene complexed with β-cyclodextrin attenuates spinal neuroactivity in animals with cancer pain by Ca2+ channel block. J Pharm Pharmacol 2022; 74:1629-1639. [PMID: 35976257 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgac052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Considering that γ-terpinene (γ-TPN) is a monoterpene found in Cannabis oil, with high lipophilicity and limited pharmacokinetics, our objective was to evaluate whether its complexation in β-cyclodextrin (γ-TPN/β-CD) could improve its physicochemical properties and action on cancer pain, as well as verify the mechanisms of action involved. METHODS The γ-TPN/β-CD was prepared and submitted to physicochemical characterization. Animals with sarcoma 180 were treated (vehicle, γ-TPN 50 mg/kg, γ-TPN/β-CD 5 mg/kg or morphine) and assessed for hyperalgesia, TNF-α and IL-1β levels, iNOS and c-Fos activity. The effects of γ-TPN on calcium channels were studied by patch-clamp and molecular docking. RESULTS β-CD improved the physicochemical properties and prolonged the anti-hyperalgesic effect of γ-TPN. This compound also reduced the levels of IL-1β, TNF-α and iNOS in the tumour, and c-Fos protein in the spinal cord. In addition, it reduced Ca2+ current, presenting favourable chemical interactions with different voltage-dependent calcium channels. CONCLUSION These results indicate that the complexation of γ-TPN into β-CD increases its stability and time effect, reducing spinal neuroactivity and inflammation by blocking calcium channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lícia T S Pina
- Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Thallita K Rabelo
- Sunnybrook Research Institute. Harquail Centre for Neuromodulation, Canada
| | - Gabriela G G Trindade
- Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Iggo K S Almeida
- Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Marlange A Oliveira
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Priscila L Dos Santos
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Diego Santos Souza
- Department of Biophysics and Immunology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil.,Department of Biophysics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Sandra L Santos
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Luciana Scotti
- Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
| | | | - Adriano A S Araújo
- Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Jullyana S S Quintans
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Lucindo J Quintans
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Adriana G Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil
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Kuznetsova KG, Zvonareva SS, Ziganshin R, Mekhova ES, Dgebuadze P, Yen DTH, Nguyen THT, Moshkovskii SA, Fedosov AE. Vexitoxins: conotoxin-like venom peptides from predatory gastropods of the genus Vexillum. Proc Biol Sci 2022; 289:20221152. [PMID: 35946162 PMCID: PMC9363990 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.1152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Venoms of predatory marine cone snails are intensely studied because of the biomedical applications of the neuropeptides that they contain, termed conotoxins. Meanwhile some gastropod lineages have independently acquired secretory glands strikingly similar to the venom gland of cone snails, suggesting that they possess similar venoms. Here we focus on the most diversified of these clades, the genus Vexillum. Based on the analysis of a multi-species proteo-transcriptomic dataset, we show that Vexillum species indeed produce complex venoms dominated by highly diversified short cysteine-rich peptides, vexitoxins. Vexitoxins possess the same precursor organization, display overlapping cysteine frameworks and share several common post-translational modifications with conotoxins. Some vexitoxins show sequence similarity to conotoxins and adopt similar domain conformations, including a pharmacologically relevant inhibitory cysteine knot motif. The Vexillum envenomation gland (gL) is a notably more recent evolutionary novelty than the conoidean venom gland. Thus, we hypothesize lower divergence between vexitoxin genes, and their ancestral 'somatic' counterparts compared to that in conotoxins, and we find support for this hypothesis in the evolution of the vexitoxin cluster V027. We use this example to discuss how future studies on vexitoxins can inform the origin of conotoxins, and how they may help to address outstanding questions in venom evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ksenia G. Kuznetsova
- Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine, 1a, Malaya Pirogovskaya, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Sofia S. Zvonareva
- A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky prospect, 33, Moscow 119071, Russia
| | - Rustam Ziganshin
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Miklukho-Maklaya street, 16/10, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Elena S. Mekhova
- A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky prospect, 33, Moscow 119071, Russia
| | - Polina Dgebuadze
- A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky prospect, 33, Moscow 119071, Russia
| | - Dinh T. H. Yen
- Russian-Vietnamese Tropical Research and Technology Center, Coastal Branch, 30 Nguyễn Thiện Thuật, Nha Trang, Vietnam
| | - Thanh H. T. Nguyen
- Russian-Vietnamese Tropical Research and Technology Center, Coastal Branch, 30 Nguyễn Thiện Thuật, Nha Trang, Vietnam
| | - Sergei A. Moshkovskii
- Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine, 1a, Malaya Pirogovskaya, Moscow 119435, Russia,Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 1, Ostrovityanova, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Alexander E. Fedosov
- A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky prospect, 33, Moscow 119071, Russia
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31
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Jimenez EC. Peptide antagonists of NMDA receptors: Structure-activity relationships for potential therapeutics. Peptides 2022; 153:170796. [PMID: 35367253 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2022.170796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are heteromeric cation channels involved in memory, learning, and synaptic plasticity. The dysfunction associated with NMDA receptors results in neurodegenerative conditions. The conantokins comprise a family of Conus venom peptides that induce sleep upon intracranial injection into young mice and are known to be NMDA receptor antagonists. This work comprehensibly documents the conantokins that have been characterized to date, focusing on the biochemistry, solution structures in the presence or absence of divalent cations, functions as selective NMDA receptor antagonists, and structure-activity relationships. Furthermore, the applications of conantokins as potential therapeutics for certain neurological conditions, including neuropathic pain, epilepsy, and ischaemia that are linked to NMDA receptor dysfunction are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsie C Jimenez
- Department of Physical Sciences, College of Science, University of the Philippines Baguio, Baguio City 2600, Philippines.
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32
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Laugesen SH, Chou DHC, Safavi-Hemami H. Unconventional insulins from predators and pathogens. Nat Chem Biol 2022; 18:688-697. [PMID: 35761080 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-022-01068-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Insulin and its related peptides are found throughout the animal kingdom, in which they serve diverse functions. This includes regulation of glucose homeostasis, neuronal development and cognition. The surprising recent discovery that venomous snails evolved specialized insulins to capture fish demonstrated the nefarious use of this hormone in nature. Because of their streamlined role in predation, these repurposed insulins exhibit unique characteristics that have unraveled new aspects of the chemical ecology and structural biology of this important hormone. Recently, insulins were also reported in other venomous predators and pathogenic viruses, demonstrating the broader use of insulin by one organism to manipulate the physiology of another. In this Review, we provide an overview of the discovery and biomedical application of repurposed insulins and other hormones found in nature and highlight several unique insights gained from these unusual compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Danny Hung-Chieh Chou
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Helena Safavi-Hemami
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA. .,School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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33
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Ramiro IBL, Bjørn-Yoshimoto WE, Imperial JS, Gajewiak J, Salcedo PF, Watkins M, Taylor D, Resager W, Ueberheide B, Bräuner-Osborne H, Whitby FG, Hill CP, Martin LF, Patwardhan A, Concepcion GP, Olivera BM, Safavi-Hemami H. Somatostatin venom analogs evolved by fish-hunting cone snails: From prey capture behavior to identifying drug leads. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabk1410. [PMID: 35319982 PMCID: PMC8942377 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abk1410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Somatostatin (SS) is a peptide hormone with diverse physiological roles. By investigating a deep-water clade of fish-hunting cone snails, we show that predator-prey evolution has generated a diverse set of SS analogs, each optimized to elicit specific systemic physiological effects in prey. The increased metabolic stability, distinct SS receptor activation profiles, and chemical diversity of the venom analogs make them suitable leads for therapeutic application, including pain, cancer, and endocrine disorders. Our findings not only establish the existence of SS-like peptides in animal venoms but also serve as a model for the synergy gained from combining molecular phylogenetics and behavioral observations to optimize the discovery of natural products with biomedical potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Bea L. Ramiro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen-N 2200, Denmark
- The Marine Science Institute, University of the Philippines, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | | | - Julita S. Imperial
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Joanna Gajewiak
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Paula Flórez Salcedo
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Maren Watkins
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Dylan Taylor
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - William Resager
- New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | | | - Hans Bräuner-Osborne
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen-Ø 2100, Denmark
| | - Frank G. Whitby
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Christopher P. Hill
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Laurent F. Martin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Amol Patwardhan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Gisela P. Concepcion
- The Marine Science Institute, University of the Philippines, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Baldomero M. Olivera
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Helena Safavi-Hemami
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen-N 2200, Denmark
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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Lee YCJ, Cowan A, Tankard A. Peptide Toxins as Biothreats and the Potential for AI Systems to Enhance Biosecurity. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:860390. [PMID: 35356782 PMCID: PMC8959115 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.860390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Biological weapons have been used for thousands of years, but recent advances in synthesis technologies have made peptide and protein toxin production more accessible and pose a threat to biosecurity worldwide. Natural toxins such as conotoxins, certain hemolytic compounds, and enterotoxins are peptide agents that can be synthesized in an environment with weak biosecurity measures and rudimentarily weaponized for limited use against smaller targets for lethal or nonlethal effects. Technological advances are changing the threat landscape around biological weapons and potentially facilitating a shift from state sponsored to more micro-level threats stemming from terror cells, insider threats, and lone wolf attacks. Here, we present the reader with an overview of the threat of peptide and protein toxins, provide examples of potent peptide toxins, and introduce capabilities of a proposed biosecurity program utilizing artificial intelligence that unifies commercial nucleotide and peptide synthesis vendors.
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35
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Cardoso FC, Schmit M, Kuiper MJ, Lewis RJ, Tuck KL, Duggan PJ. Inhibition of N-type calcium ion channels by tricyclic antidepressants - experimental and theoretical justification for their use for neuropathic pain. RSC Med Chem 2022; 13:183-195. [PMID: 35308021 PMCID: PMC8864487 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00331c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A number of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are commonly prescribed off-label for the treatment of neuropathic pain. The blockade of neuronal calcium ion channels is often invoked to partially explain the analgesic activity of TCAs, but there has been very limited experimental or theoretical evidence reported to support this assertion. The N-type calcium ion channel (CaV2.2) is a well-established target for the treatment of neuropathic pain and in this study a series of eleven TCAs and two closely related drugs were shown to be moderately effective inhibitors of this channel when endogenously expressed in the SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell line. A homology model of the channel, which matches closely a recently reported Cryo-EM structure, was used to investigate via docking and molecular dynamics experiments the possible mode of inhibition of CaV2.2 channels by TCAs. Two closely related binding modes, that occur in the channel cavity that exists between the selectivity filter and the internal gate, were identified. The TCAs are predicted to position themselves such that their ammonium side chains interfere with the selectivity filter, with some, such as amitriptyline, also appearing to hinder the channel's ability to open. This study provides the most comprehensive evidence to date that supports the notion that the blockade of neuronal calcium ion channels by TCAs is at least partially responsible for their analgesic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda C Cardoso
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland St Lucia QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Matthieu Schmit
- School of Chemistry, Monash University Victoria 3800 Australia
- CSIRO Manufacturing Research Way Clayton Victoria 3168 Australia
| | | | - Richard J Lewis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland St Lucia QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Kellie L Tuck
- School of Chemistry, Monash University Victoria 3800 Australia
| | - Peter J Duggan
- CSIRO Manufacturing Research Way Clayton Victoria 3168 Australia
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University Adelaide South Australia 5042 Australia
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36
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Marine Origin Ligands of Nicotinic Receptors: Low Molecular Compounds, Peptides and Proteins for Fundamental Research and Practical Applications. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020189. [PMID: 35204690 PMCID: PMC8961598 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of our review is to briefly show what different compounds of marine origin, from low molecular weight ones to peptides and proteins, offer for understanding the structure and mechanism of action of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and for finding novel drugs to combat the diseases where nAChRs may be involved. The importance of the mentioned classes of ligands has changed with time; a protein from the marine snake venom was the first excellent tool to characterize the muscle-type nAChRs from the electric ray, while at present, muscle and α7 receptors are labeled with the radioactive or fluorescent derivatives prepared from α-bungarotoxin isolated from the many-banded krait. The most sophisticated instruments to distinguish muscle from neuronal nAChRs, and especially distinct subtypes within the latter, are α-conotoxins. Such information is crucial for fundamental studies on the nAChR revealing the properties of their orthosteric and allosteric binding sites and mechanisms of the channel opening and closure. Similar data are provided by low-molecular weight compounds of marine origin, but here the main purpose is drug design. In our review we tried to show what has been obtained in the last decade when the listed classes of compounds were used in the nAChR research, applying computer modeling, synthetic analogues and receptor mutants, X-ray and electron-microscopy analyses of complexes with the nAChRs, and their models which are acetylcholine-binding proteins and heterologously-expressed ligand-binding domains.
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North American Neuromodulation Society Educational Curriculum for Intrathecal Drug Delivery Systems Implantation and Management. Neuromodulation 2022:S1094-7159(21)06945-2. [PMID: 35088723 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2021.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Intrathecal drug delivery systems (IDDSs) are used for the treatment of pain and spasticity. A wide range of educational criteria exist for these devices. The North American Neuromodulation Society (NANS) Education Committee developed a comprehensive IDDS curriculum to function as a standard for physician graduate education and assessment through training and into practice. MATERIAL AND METHODS A multidisciplinary and diverse task force gathered by the NANS Education Committee met in person and virtually over several sessions and developed an IDDS curriculum modeling their previous work on spinal cord stimulation and following the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) Milestones. There were iterative revisions and adaptations to the curriculum, and the final version was approved by the NANS Board of Directors. RESULTS The curriculum was developed with distinction between implanting physicians and managing physician and physicians who perform both tasks. There is a lateral temporal progression from early learner to practitioner, with advanced learner in the middle. In addition, there is a modular vertical organization that divides the curriculum into the six educational competencies outlined by the ACGME. CONCLUSION A comprehensive, modular, graduated, and segmented educational curriculum for IDDSs was developed by NANS. We propose the curriculum to be the standard for guidance and assessment of trainees and physicians pursuing training in implanting or managing IDDSs.
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Achrak E, Ferd J, Schulman J, Dang T, Krampis K, Holford M. VenomFlow: An Automated Bioinformatic Pipeline for Identification of Disulfide-Rich Peptides from Venom Arsenals. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2498:89-97. [PMID: 35727542 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2313-8_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Animal venoms are among the most complex natural secretions known, comprising a mixture of bioactive compounds often referred to as toxins. Venom arsenals are predominately made up of cysteine-rich peptide toxins that manipulate molecular targets, such as ion channels and receptors, making these venom peptides attractive candidates for the development of therapeutics to benefit human health. With the rise of omic strategies that utilize transcriptomic, proteomic, and bioinformatic methods, we are able to identify more venom proteins and peptides than ever before. However, identification and characterization of bioactive venom peptides remains a significant challenge due to the unique chemical structure and enormous number of peptides found in each venom arsenal (upward of 200 per organism). Here, we introduce a rapid and user-friendly in silico bioinformatic pipeline for the de novo identification and characterization of raw RNAseq reads from venom glands to elucidate cysteine-rich peptides from the arsenal of venomous organisms.Implementation: This project develops a user-friendly automated bioinformatics pipeline via a Galaxy workflow to identify novel venom peptides from raw RNAseq reads of terebrid snails. While designed for venomous terebrid snails, with minor adjustments, this pipeline can be made universal to identify secreted disulfide-rich peptide toxins from any venomous organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Achrak
- Department of Biology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer Ferd
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jessica Schulman
- Department of Bioinformatics, New York University Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Trami Dang
- Bioinformatics and Computational Genomics Laboratory, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Konstantinos Krampis
- Bioinformatics and Computational Genomics Laboratory, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mande Holford
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.
- The American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY, USA.
- PhD Programs in Biology, Biochemistry, and Chemistry at the CUNY Graduate Center, New York, NY, USA.
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Shahzadi SK, Karuvantevida N, Banerjee Y. A Venomics Approach to the Identification and Characterization of Bioactive Peptides From Animal Venoms for Colorectal Cancer Therapy: Protocol for a Proof-of-Concept Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e31128. [PMID: 34932002 PMCID: PMC8734912 DOI: 10.2196/31128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer is the third leading cause of death in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), after cardiovascular diseases and accidents. In the UAE, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the first and fourth most common cancer in males and females, respectively. Several treatment modalities have been employed for cancer treatment, such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone replacement therapy, and immunotherapy. These treatment modalities often elicit adverse effects on normal cells, causing toxic side effects. To circumvent these toxicities, there has been an increased impetus towards the identification of alternate treatment strategies. Animal venoms are rich sources of pharmacologically active polypeptides and proteins. Objective In this proof-of-concept study, we will apply a high-throughput venomics strategy to identify and characterize anticancer bioactive peptides (BAPs) from 20 different animal venoms, specifically targeting CRC. We chose to focus on CRC because it is one of the foremost health issues in the UAE. Methods In the initial study, we will screen 2500 different peptides derived from 20 different animal venoms for anticancer activity specifically directed against 3 CRC cell lines and two control cell lines employing the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) colorimetric assay for cytotoxicity. Of the 20 venoms, 3 that exhibit specific and potent anticancer activity directed against the 3 CRC cell lines will be selected; and from these 3 venoms, the specific peptides with anti-CRC activity will be isolated and characterized. Results This study is at the protocol development stage only, and as such, no results are available. However, we have initiated the groundwork required to disseminate the proposed study, which includes culturing of colorectal cancer cell lines and preparation of venom screens. Conclusions In summary, the proposed study will generate therapeutic leads to manage and treat one of the leading health issues in the UAE, namely, CRC. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/31128
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Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Kiran Shahzadi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Noushad Karuvantevida
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Yajnavalka Banerjee
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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GlicoPro, Novel Standardized and Sterile Snail Mucus Extract for Multi-Modulative Ocular Formulations: New Perspective in Dry Eye Disease Management. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13122139. [PMID: 34959420 PMCID: PMC8708832 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13122139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the mucoadhesive and regenerative properties of a novel lubricating multimolecular ophthalmic solution (GlicoPro®) extracted from snail mucus and its potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic role in the management of dry eye disease (DED). GlicoPro bio-adhesive efficacy was assessed using a lectin-based assay, and its regenerative properties were studied in a human corneal epithelial cell line. In vitro DED was induced in human corneal tissues; the histology and mRNA expression of selected genes of inflammatory and corneal damage biomarkers were analyzed in DED tissues treated with GlicoPro. A higher percentage of bio-adhesivity was observed in corneal cells treated with GlicoPro than with sodium hyaluronate-based compounds. In the scratch test GlicoPro improved in vitro corneal wound healing. Histo-morphological analysis revealed restoration of cellular organization of the corneal epithelium, microvilli, and mucin network in DED corneal tissues treated with GlicoPro. A significant reduction in inflammatory and ocular damage biomarkers was observed. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis identified an endogenous opioid, opiorphin, in the peptide fraction of GlicoPro. In conclusion, GlicoPro induced regeneration and bio-adhesivity in corneal cells; moreover, considering its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, this novel ophthalmic lubricating solution may be an innovative approach for the management of DED.
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Cappello E, Nieri P. From Life in the Sea to the Clinic: The Marine Drugs Approved and under Clinical Trial. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:1390. [PMID: 34947921 PMCID: PMC8704254 DOI: 10.3390/life11121390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decades Blue Growth policy in european and non-european countries produced a great impulse in applied marine sciences, comprehending the research of new bioactive molecules in marine organisms. These organisms are a great source of natural compounds with unique features resulting from the huge variability of marine habitats and species living in them. Most of the marine compounds in use and in clinical trials are drugs for cancer therapy and many of them are conjugated to antibody to form antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). Severe pain, viral infections, hypertriglyceridemia, obesity, Alzheimer's and other CNS diseases are further target conditions for these pharmaceuticals. This review summarizes the state-of-the-art marine drugs focusing on the most successful results in the fast expanding field of marine pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Cappello
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Nieri
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Interdepartmental Center of Marine Pharmacology (MARinePHARMA), University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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Ran D, Gomez K, Moutal A, Patek M, Perez-Miller S, Khanna R. Comparison of quinazoline and benzoylpyrazoline chemotypes targeting the CaVα-β interaction as antagonists of the N-type CaV2.2 channel. Channels (Austin) 2021; 15:128-135. [PMID: 33416017 PMCID: PMC7808423 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2020.1863595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Structural studies with an α subunit fragment of voltage-gated calcium (CaV) channels in complex with the CaVβ subunits revealed a high homology between the various CaVα-β subunits, predicting that targeting of this interface would result in nonselective compounds. Despite this likelihood, my laboratory initiated a rational structure-based screening campaign focusing on "hot spots" on the alpha interacting domain (AID) of the CaVβ2a subunits and identified the small molecule 2-(3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl)-N-((4-((3-phenylpropyl)amino)quinazolin-2-yl)methyl)acetamide ( IPPQ ) which selectively targeted the interface between the N-type calcium (CaV2.2) channel and CaVβ. IPPQ (i) specifically bound to CaVβ2a; (ii) inhibited CaVβ2 's interaction with CaV.2-AID; (iii) inhibited CaV2.2 currents in sensory neurons; (iv) inhibited pre-synaptic localization of CaV2.2 in vivo; and (v) inhibited spinal neurotransmission, which resulted in decreased neurotransmitter release. IPPQ was anti-nociceptive in naïve rats and reversed mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in rodent models of acute, neuropathic, and genetic pain. In structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies focused on improving binding affinity of IPPQ , another compound (BTT-369), a benzoyl-3,4-dihydro-1'H,2 H-3,4'-bipyrazole class of compounds, was reported by Chen and colleagues, based on work conducted in my laboratory beginning in 2008. BTT-369 contains tetraaryldihydrobipyrazole scaffold - a chemotype featuring phenyl groups known to be significantly metabolized, lower the systemic half-life, and increase the potential for toxicity. Furthermore, the benzoylpyrazoline skeleton in BTT-369 is patented across multiple therapeutic indications. Prior to embarking on an extensive optimization campaign of IPPQ , we performed a head-to-head comparison of the two compounds. We conclude that IPPQ is superior to BTT-369 for on-target efficacy, setting the stage for SAR studies to improve on IPPQ for the development of novel pain therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongzhi Ran
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Kimberly Gomez
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Marcel Patek
- Bright Rock Path Consulting, LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Samantha Perez-Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, The University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Regulonix LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA
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Yousuf A, Wu X, Bony AR, Sadeghi M, Huang YH, Craik DJ, Adams DJ. ɑO-Conotoxin GeXIVA isomers modulate N-type calcium (Ca V 2.2) channels and inwardly-rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels via GABA B receptor activation. J Neurochem 2021; 160:154-171. [PMID: 34738241 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
αO-Conotoxin GeXIVA is a 28 amino acid peptide derived from the venom of the marine snail Conus generalis. The presence of four cysteine residues in the structure of GeXIVA allows it to have three different disulfide isomers, that is, the globular, ribbon or bead isomer. All three isomers are active at α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, with the bead isomer, GeXIVA[1,2], being the most potent and exhibiting analgesic activity in animal models of neuropathic pain. The original report of GeXIVA activity failed to observe any effect of the isomers on high voltage-activated (HVA) calcium channel currents in rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. In this study, we report, for the first time, the activity of globular GeXIVA[1,3] at G protein-coupled GABAB receptors (GABAB R) inhibiting HVA N-type calcium (Cav2.2) channels and reducing membrane excitability in mouse DRG neurons. The inhibition of HVA Ba2+ currents and neuroexcitability by GeXIVA[1,3] was partially reversed by the selective GABAB R antagonist CGP 55845. In transfected HEK293T cells co-expressing human GABAB R1 and R2 subunits and Cav2.2 channels, both GeXIVA[1,3] and GeXIVA[1,4] inhibited depolarization-activated Ba2+ currents mediated by Cav2.2 channels, whereas GeXIVA[1,2] had no effect. The effects of three cyclized GeXIVA[1,4] ribbon isomers were also tested, with cGeXIVA GAG being the most potent at human GABAB R-coupled Cav2.2 channels. Interestingly, globular GeXIVA[1,3] also reversibly potentiated inwardly-rectifying K+ currents mediated by human GIRK1/2 channels co-expressed with GABAB R in HEK293T cells. This study highlights GABAB R as a potentially important receptor target for the activity of αO-conotoxin GeXIVA to mediate analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arsalan Yousuf
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Xiaosa Wu
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anuja R Bony
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mahsa Sadeghi
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - David J Adams
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
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Purification and Characterization of Trochus radiatus Derived Low Molecular Weight Bactericidal Polypeptide Active Against ESKAPE Pathogens. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10195-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Fedosov A, Zaharias P, Puillandre N. A phylogeny-aware approach reveals unexpected venom components in divergent lineages of cone snails. Proc Biol Sci 2021; 288:20211017. [PMID: 34229491 PMCID: PMC8261202 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2021.1017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Marine gastropods of the genus Conus are renowned for their remarkable diversity and deadly venoms. While Conus venoms are increasingly well studied for their biomedical applications, we know surprisingly little about venom composition in other lineages of Conidae. We performed comprehensive venom transcriptomic profiling for Conasprella coriolisi and Pygmaeconus traillii, first time for both respective genera. We complemented reference-based transcriptome annotation by a de novo toxin prediction guided by phylogeny, which involved transcriptomic data on two additional 'divergent' cone snail lineages, Profundiconus, and Californiconus. We identified toxin clusters (SSCs) shared among all or some of the four analysed genera based on the identity of the signal region-a molecular tag present in toxins. In total, 116 and 98 putative toxins represent 29 and 28 toxin gene superfamilies in Conasprella and Pygmaeconus, respectively; about quarter of these only found by semi-manual annotation of the SSCs. Two rare gene superfamilies, originally identified from fish-hunting cone snails, were detected outside Conus rather unexpectedly, so we further investigated their distribution across Conidae radiation. We demonstrate that both these, in fact, are ubiquitous in Conidae, sometimes with extremely high expression. Our findings demonstrate how a phylogeny-aware approach circumvents methodological caveats of similarity-based transcriptome annotation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Fedosov
- A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospect 33, 119071 Moscow, Russian Federation
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, 57 rue Cuvier, CP 26, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Paul Zaharias
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, 57 rue Cuvier, CP 26, 75005 Paris, France
- Department of Computer Science, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Nicolas Puillandre
- Institut Systématique Evolution Biodiversité (ISYEB), Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, 57 rue Cuvier, CP 26, 75005 Paris, France
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Zheng N, Christensen SB, Dowell C, Purushottam L, Skalicky JJ, McIntosh JM, Chou DHC. Discovery of Methylene Thioacetal-Incorporated α-RgIA Analogues as Potent and Stable Antagonists of the Human α9α10 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor for the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain. J Med Chem 2021; 64:9513-9524. [PMID: 34161094 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
α9-Containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are key targets for the treatment of neuropathic pain. α-Conotoxin RgIA4 is a peptide antagonist of human α9α10 nAChRs with high selectivity. However, structural rearrangement reveals a potential liability for clinical applications. We herein report our designer RgIA analogues stabilized by methylene thioacetal as nonopioid analgesic agents. We demonstrate that replacing disulfide loop I [CysI-CysIII] with methylene thioacetal in the RgIA skeleton results in activity loss, whereas substitution of loop II [CysII-CysIV] can be accommodated. The lead molecule, RgIA-5524, exhibits highly selective inhibition of α9α10 nAChRs with an IC50 of 0.9 nM and much reduced degradation in human serum. In vivo studies showed that RgIA-5524 relieves chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain in wild type but not α9 knockout mouse models, demonstrating that α9-containing nAChRs are necessary for the therapeutic effects. This work highlights the application of methylene thioacetal as a disulfide surrogate in conotoxin-based, disulfide-rich peptide drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Sean B Christensen
- School of Biological Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Cheryl Dowell
- School of Biological Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Landa Purushottam
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Jack J Skalicky
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - J Michael McIntosh
- School of Biological Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States.,George E. Whalen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Danny Hung-Chieh Chou
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
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Bridging Cyanobacteria to Neurodegenerative Diseases: A New Potential Source of Bioactive Compounds against Alzheimer's Disease. Mar Drugs 2021; 19:md19060343. [PMID: 34208482 PMCID: PMC8235772 DOI: 10.3390/md19060343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) represent a drawback in society given the ageing population. Dementias are the most prevalent NDs, with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) representing around 70% of all cases. The current pharmaceuticals for AD are symptomatic and with no effects on the progression of the disease. Thus, research on molecules with therapeutic relevance has become a major focus for the scientific community. Cyanobacteria are a group of photosynthetic prokaryotes rich in biomolecules with confirmed activity in pathologies such as cancer, and with feasible potential in NDs such as AD. In this review, we aimed to compile the research works focused in the anti-AD potential of cyanobacteria, namely regarding the inhibition of the enzyme β-secretase (BACE1) as a fundamental enzyme in the generation of β-amyloid (Aβ), the inhibition of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) lead to an increase in the availability of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft and the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as phenomena associated with neurodegeneration mechanisms.
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Jimenez EC. Post-translationally modified conopeptides: Biological activities and pharmacological applications. Peptides 2021; 139:170525. [PMID: 33684482 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Conus venoms comprise a large variety of biologically active peptides (conopeptides or conotoxins) that are employed for prey capture and other biological functions. Throughout the course of evolution of the cone snails, they have developed an envenomation scheme that necessitates a potent mixture of peptides, most of which are highly post-translationally modified, that can cause rapid paralysis of their prey. The great diversity of these peptides defines the ecological interactions and evolutionary strategy of cone snails. Such scheme has led to some pharmacological applications for pain, epilepsy, and myocardial infarction, that could be further explored to ultimately find unique peptide-based therapies. This review focuses on ∼ 60 representative post-translationally modified conopeptides that were isolated from Conus venoms. Various conopeptides reveal post-translational modifications of specific amino acids, such as hydroxylation of proline and lysine, gamma-carboxylation of glutamate, formation of N-terminal pyroglutamate, isomerization of l- to d-amino acid, bromination of tryptophan, O-glycosylation of threonine or serine, sulfation of tyrosine, and cysteinylation of cysteine, other than the more common disulfide crosslinking and C-terminal amidation. Many of the post-translationally modified peptides paved the way for the characterization, by alternative analytical methods, of other pharmacologically important peptides that are classified under 27 conopeptide families denoting pharmacological classes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsie C Jimenez
- Department of Physical Sciences, College of Science, University of the Philippines Baguio, Baguio City, 2600, Philippines.
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Bosse GD, Urcino C, Watkins M, Flórez Salcedo P, Kozel S, Chase K, Cabang A, Espino SS, Safavi-Hemami H, Raghuraman S, Olivera BM, Peterson RT, Gajewiak J. Discovery of a Potent Conorfamide from Conus episcopatus Using a Novel Zebrafish Larvae Assay. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2021; 84:1232-1243. [PMID: 33764053 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.0c01297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Natural products such as conotoxins have tremendous potential as tools for biomedical research and for the treatment of different human diseases. Conotoxins are peptides present in the venoms of predatory cone snails that have a rich diversity of pharmacological functions. One of the major bottlenecks in natural products research is the rapid identification and evaluation of bioactive molecules. To overcome this limitation, we designed a set of light-induced behavioral assays in zebrafish larvae to screen for bioactive conotoxins. We used this screening approach to test several unique conotoxins derived from different cone snail clades and discovered that a conorfamide from Conus episcopatus, CNF-Ep1, had the most dramatic alterations in the locomotor behavior of zebrafish larvae. Interestingly, CNF-Ep1 is also bioactive in several mouse assay systems when tested in vitro and in vivo. Our novel screening platform can thus accelerate the identification of bioactive marine natural products, and the first compound discovered using this assay has intriguing properties that may uncover novel neuronal circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel D Bosse
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, 201 Skaggs Hall 30 S 2000 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Cristoval Urcino
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, 257 S 1400 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Maren Watkins
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, 257 S 1400 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Paula Flórez Salcedo
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, 20 S 2030 E, BPRB 490D, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Sabrina Kozel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, 257 S 1400 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Kevin Chase
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, 257 S 1400 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - April Cabang
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, 257 S 1400 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Samuel S Espino
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, 257 S 1400 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Helena Safavi-Hemami
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, 257 S 1400 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, 15 N Medical Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, Copenhagen N DK-2200, Denmark
| | - Shrinivasan Raghuraman
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, 257 S 1400 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Baldomero M Olivera
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, 257 S 1400 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Randall T Peterson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, 201 Skaggs Hall 30 S 2000 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Joanna Gajewiak
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, 257 S 1400 E, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
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Coulter-Parkhill A, McClean S, Gault VA, Irwin N. Therapeutic Potential of Peptides Derived from Animal Venoms: Current Views and Emerging Drugs for Diabetes. Clin Med Insights Endocrinol Diabetes 2021; 14:11795514211006071. [PMID: 34621137 PMCID: PMC8491154 DOI: 10.1177/11795514211006071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of venom-derived drugs is evident today. Currently, several significant drugs are FDA approved for human use that descend directly from animal venom products, with others having undergone, or progressing through, clinical trials. In addition, there is growing awareness of the important cosmeceutical application of venom-derived products. The success of venom-derived compounds is linked to their increased bioactivity, specificity and stability when compared to synthetically engineered compounds. This review highlights advancements in venom-derived compounds for the treatment of diabetes and related disorders. Exendin-4, originating from the saliva of Gila monster lizard, represents proof-of-concept for this drug discovery pathway in diabetes. More recent evidence emphasises the potential of venom-derived compounds from bees, cone snails, sea anemones, scorpions, snakes and spiders to effectively manage glycaemic control. Such compounds could represent exciting exploitable scaffolds for future drug discovery in diabetes, as well as providing tools to allow for a better understanding of cell signalling pathways linked to insulin secretion and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Victor A Gault
- Diabetes Research Group, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Nigel Irwin
- Diabetes Research Group, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
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