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Gupta P, Meher MK, Tripathi S, Poluri KM. Nanoformulations for dismantling fungal biofilms: The latest arsenals of antifungal therapy. Mol Aspects Med 2024; 98:101290. [PMID: 38945048 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2024.101290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Globally, fungal infections have evolved as a strenuous challenge for clinicians, particularly in patients with compromised immunity in intensive care units. Fungal co-infection in Covid-19 patients has made the situation more formidable for healthcare practitioners. Surface adhered fungal population known as biofilm often develop at the diseased site to elicit antifungal tolerance and recalcitrant traits. Thus, an innovative strategy is required to impede/eradicate developed biofilm and avoid the formation of new colonies. The development of nanocomposite-based antibiofilm solutions is the most appropriate way to withstand and dismantle biofilm structures. Nanocomposites can be utilized as a drug delivery medium and for fabrication of anti-biofilm surfaces capable to resist fungal colonization. In this context, the present review comprehensively described different forms of nanocomposites and mode of their action against fungal biofilms. Amongst various nanocomposites, efficacy of metal/organic nanoparticles and nanofibers are particularly emphasized to highlight their role in the pursuit of antibiofilm strategies. Further, the inevitable concern of nanotoxicology has also been introduced and discussed with the exigent need of addressing it while developing nano-based therapies. Further, a list of FDA-approved nano-based antifungal formulations for therapeutic usage available to date has been described. Collectively, the review highlights the potential, scope, and future of nanocomposite-based antibiofilm therapeutics to address the fungal biofilm management issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payal Gupta
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India; Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era (Demmed to be Unievrsity), Dehradun, 248001, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar Meher
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Shweta Tripathi
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Krishna Mohan Poluri
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India; Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India.
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Wiezel GA, Oliveira IS, Reis MB, Ferreira IG, Cordeiro KR, Bordon KCF, Arantes EC. The complex repertoire of Tityus spp. venoms: Advances on their composition and pharmacological potential of their toxins. Biochimie 2024; 220:144-166. [PMID: 38176606 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.12.012] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Animal venoms are a rich and complex source of components, including peptides (such as neurotoxins, anionic peptides and hypotensins), lipids, proteins (such as proteases, hyaluronidases and phospholipases) and inorganic compounds, which affect all biological systems of the envenoming victim. Their action may result in a wide range of clinical manifestations, including tachy/bradycardia, hyper/hypotension, disorders in blood coagulation, pain, edema, inflammation, fever, muscle paralysis, coma and even death. Scorpions are one of the most studied venomous animals in the world and interesting bioactive molecules have been isolated and identified from their venoms over the years. Tityus spp. are among the scorpions with high number of accidents reported in the Americas, especially in Brazil. Their venoms have demonstrated interesting results in the search for novel agents with antimicrobial, anti-viral, anti-parasitic, hypotensive, immunomodulation, anti-insect, antitumor and/or antinociceptive activities. Furthermore, other recent activities still under investigation include drug delivery action, design of anti-epileptic drugs, investigation of sodium channel function, treatment of erectile disfunction and priapism, improvement of scorpion antivenom and chelating molecules activity. In this scenario, this paper focuses on reviewing advances on Tityus venom components mainly through the modern omics technologies as well as addressing potential therapeutic agents from their venoms and highlighting this abundant source of pharmacologically active molecules with biotechnological application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisele A Wiezel
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Isadora S Oliveira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Søtolfts Plads, Building 239 Room 006, Kongens Lyngby, 2800, Denmark.
| | - Mouzarllem B Reis
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Isabela G Ferreira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Kalynka R Cordeiro
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Karla C F Bordon
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Eliane C Arantes
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Ul Haq I, Maryam S, Shyntum DY, Khan TA, Li F. Exploring the frontiers of therapeutic breadth of antifungal peptides: A new avenue in antifungal drugs. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 51:kuae018. [PMID: 38710584 PMCID: PMC11119867 DOI: 10.1093/jimb/kuae018] [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: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
The growing prevalence of fungal infections alongside rising resistance to antifungal drugs poses a significant challenge to public health safety. At the close of the 2000s, major pharmaceutical firms began to scale back on antimicrobial research due to repeated setbacks and diminished economic gains, leaving only smaller companies and research labs to pursue new antifungal solutions. Among various natural sources explored for novel antifungal compounds, antifungal peptides (AFPs) emerge as particularly promising. Despite their potential, AFPs receive less focus than their antibacterial counterparts. These peptides have been sourced extensively from nature, including plants, animals, insects, and especially bacteria and fungi. Furthermore, with advancements in recombinant biotechnology and computational biology, AFPs can also be synthesized in lab settings, facilitating peptide production. AFPs are noted for their wide-ranging efficacy, in vitro and in vivo safety, and ability to combat biofilms. They are distinguished by their high specificity, minimal toxicity to cells, and reduced likelihood of resistance development. This review aims to comprehensively cover AFPs, including their sources-both natural and synthetic-their antifungal and biofilm-fighting capabilities in laboratory and real-world settings, their action mechanisms, and the current status of AFP research. ONE-SENTENCE SUMMARY This comprehensive review of AFPs will be helpful for further research in antifungal research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ihtisham Ul Haq
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Technology of Polymers, Silesian University of Technology, M. Strzody 9, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
- Joint Doctoral School, Silesian University of Technology, Akademicka 2A, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Inovação Tecnológica, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Sajida Maryam
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Technology of Polymers, Silesian University of Technology, M. Strzody 9, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
- Joint Doctoral School, Silesian University of Technology, Akademicka 2A, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
| | - Divine Y Shyntum
- Biotechnology Centre, Silesian University of Technology, B. Krzywoustego 8, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
| | - Taj A Khan
- Division of Infectious Diseases & Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Institute of Pathology and Diagnostic Medicine, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Fan Li
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, People's Republic of China
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dos Santos-Silva E, Torres-Rêgo M, Gláucia-Silva F, Feitosa RC, Lacerda AF, Rocha HADO, Fernandes-Pedrosa MDF, da Silva-Júnior AA. Cationic PLGA Nanoparticle Formulations as Biocompatible Immunoadjuvant for Serum Production and Immune Response against Bothrops jararaca Venom. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14120888. [PMID: 36548785 PMCID: PMC9786128 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14120888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming represents a worldwide public health issue. Suitable technologies have been investigated for encapsulated recombinant or native proteins capable of inducing an effective and long-lasting adaptive immune response. Nanoparticles are colloidal dispersions that have been used as drug delivery systems for bioactive biological compounds. Venom-loaded nanoparticles modulate the protein release and activate the immune response to produce specific antibodies. In this study, biocompatible cationic nanoparticles with Bothrops jararaca venom were prepared to be used as a novel immunoadjuvant that shows a similar or improved immune response in antibody production when compared to a conventional immunoadjuvant (aluminum hydroxide). We prepared stable, small-sized and spherical particles with high Bothrops jararaca venom protein association efficiency. The high protein loading efficiency, electrophoresis, and zeta potential results demonstrated that Bothrops jararaca venom is adsorbed on the particle surface, which remained as a stable colloidal dispersion over 6 weeks. The slow protein release occurred and followed parabolic diffusion release kinetics. The in vivo studies demonstrated that venom-loaded nanoparticles were able to produce an immune response similar to that of aluminum hydroxide. The cationic nanoparticles (CNp) as carriers of bioactive molecules, were successfully developed and demonstrated to be a promising immunoadjuvant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuell dos Santos-Silva
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal-RN 59072-970, Brazil
| | - Manoela Torres-Rêgo
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal-RN 59072-970, Brazil
| | - Fiamma Gláucia-Silva
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal-RN 59072-970, Brazil
| | - Renata Carvalho Feitosa
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal-RN 59072-970, Brazil
| | - Ariane Ferreira Lacerda
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal-RN 59072-970, Brazil
| | | | - Matheus de Freitas Fernandes-Pedrosa
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal-RN 59072-970, Brazil
| | - Arnóbio Antônio da Silva-Júnior
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal-RN 59072-970, Brazil
- Correspondence:
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Antimicrobial Activity Developed by Scorpion Venoms and Its Peptide Component. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14110740. [PMID: 36355990 PMCID: PMC9693228 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14110740] [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: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial infections represent a problem of great importance at the public health level, with a high rate of morbidity-mortality worldwide. However, treating the different diseases generated by microorganisms requires a gradual increase in acquired resistance when applying or using them against various antibiotic therapies. Resistance is caused by various molecular mechanisms of microorganisms, thus reducing their effectiveness. Consequently, there is a need to search for new opportunities through natural sources with antimicrobial activity. One alternative is using peptides present in different scorpion venoms, specifically from the Buthidae family. Different peptides with biological activity in microorganisms have been characterized as preventing their growth or inhibiting their replication. Therefore, they represent an alternative to be used in the design and development of new-generation antimicrobial drugs in different types of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. Essential aspects for its disclosure, as shown in this review, are the studies carried out on different types of peptides in scorpion venoms with activity against pathogenic microorganisms, highlighting their high therapeutic potential.
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Roque-Borda CA, Gualque MWDL, da Fonseca FH, Pavan FR, Santos-Filho NA. Nanobiotechnology with Therapeutically Relevant Macromolecules from Animal Venoms: Venoms, Toxins, and Antimicrobial Peptides. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:891. [PMID: 35631477 PMCID: PMC9146920 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14050891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Some diseases of uncontrolled proliferation such as cancer, as well as infectious diseases, are the main cause of death in the world, and their causative agents have rapidly developed resistance to the various existing treatments, making them even more dangerous. Thereby, the discovery of new therapeutic agents is a challenge promoted by the World Health Organization (WHO). Biomacromolecules, isolated or synthesized from a natural template, have therapeutic properties which have not yet been fully studied, and represent an unexplored potential in the search for new drugs. These substances, starting from conglomerates of proteins and other substances such as animal venoms, or from minor substances such as bioactive peptides, help fight diseases or counteract harmful effects. The high effectiveness of these biomacromolecules makes them promising substances for obtaining new drugs; however, their low bioavailability or stability in biological systems is a challenge to be overcome in the coming years with the help of nanotechnology. The objective of this review article is to describe the relationship between the structure and function of biomacromolecules of animal origin that have applications already described using nanotechnology and targeted delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar Augusto Roque-Borda
- Tuberculosis Research Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.A.R.-B.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Marcos William de Lima Gualque
- Proteomics Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil;
| | - Fauller Henrique da Fonseca
- Department of Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry, Chemistry Institute, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil;
| | - Fernando Rogério Pavan
- Tuberculosis Research Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.A.R.-B.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Norival Alves Santos-Filho
- Department of Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry, Chemistry Institute, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil;
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de Melo MMA, Oliveira VDS, de Queiroz Neto MF, Paiva WDS, Torres-Rêgo M, Silva SRB, Pontes DDL, Rocha HAO, de Souza MÂF, da Silva-Júnior AA, Fernandes-Pedrosa MDF. TanP: A Multifunctional Anionic Peptide From Tityus stigmurus Scorpion Venom. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 8:785316. [PMID: 35111812 PMCID: PMC8802776 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.785316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Anionic peptides of scorpions are molecules rich in aspartic and/or glutamic acid residues and correspond to a class of peptides without disulfide bonds that are still little explored. TanP is a linear anionic peptide (50 amino acid residues and net charge -20) present in the venom gland of the scorpion, Tityus stigmurus, with chelating properties for Cu2+ ion and immunomodulatory properties. The therapeutic application of chelating molecules is related to cases of acute or chronic intoxication by metals, neurodegenerative diseases, hematological diseases, healing of skin wounds, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. In this approach, the chelating activity of TanP was evaluated in relation to new metal ions (Fe2+ and Zn2+) of biological importance, as well as its antioxidant, hemostatic, immunomodulatory, and healing potential, aiming to expand the biological and biotechnological potential of this peptide. TanP (25 µM) was able to form stable complexes with Fe2+ in a ratio of 1:5 (TanP: Fe2+). Theoretical results suggest that TanP can work as a sensor to identify and quantify Fe2+ ions. The fluorescence intensity of TanP (1.12 µM) decreased significantly after the addition of Fe2+, obtaining the highest ratio 1: 7.4 (TanP: Fe2+) that led to the lowest fluorescence intensity. For Zn2+, no relevant spectral change was noted. TanP (50 µM) showed a maximum of 3% of hemolytic activity, demonstrating biocompatibility, as well as exhibiting a 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging activity of above 70% at all the concentrations tested (1-25 μM), and 89.7% iron-chelating activity at 25 μM and 96% hydroxyl radical-scavenging activity at 73.6 μM. In addition, TanP (12.5 and 25 µM) revealed an anticoagulant effect, prolonging the clotting time in prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time assays, with no fibrinogenolytic activity. TanP (12.5 and 25 µM) induced the release of TNF-α by murine macrophages, in the absence of lipopolysaccharides, with a concentration-dependent increase and also stimulated the migration of 3T3 cells in the in vitro healing assay. Thus, TanP revealed a multifunctional potential, being useful as a prototype for the development of new therapeutic and biotechnological agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menilla Maria Alves de Melo
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Verônica da Silva Oliveira
- Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry and Polymers, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Moacir Fernandes de Queiroz Neto
- Laboratory of Natural Polymer Biotechnology, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Weslley de Souza Paiva
- Laboratory of Natural Polymer Biotechnology, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Manoela Torres-Rêgo
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- Laboratory of Synthesis and Isolation of Organic Compounds, Chemistry Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | | | - Daniel de Lima Pontes
- Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry and Polymers, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Hugo Alexandre Oliveira Rocha
- Laboratory of Natural Polymer Biotechnology, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | | | - Arnóbio Antônio da Silva-Júnior
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
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Ferreira SDS, Silva DPD, Torres-Rêgo M, Silva-Júnior AAD, Fernandes-Pedrosa MDF. The potential of phenolic acids in therapy against snakebites: A review. Toxicon 2021; 208:1-12. [PMID: 34979199 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ophidism is a serious health problem worldwide and is included in the World Health Organization's (WHO's) list of Neglected Tropical Diseases. Although snakebite envenoming requires emergency treatment, currently the only treatment recommended by WHO is serotherapy, which has some disadvantages such as low access to the rural population, low effectiveness in neutralizing local effects, and high cost. In this context, new alternatives for the treatment of snakebites are required. The use of plant-derived compounds to inhibit the effects caused by snake venoms has been the object of a number of studies in recent years. This review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the use of phenolic acids with therapeutic application against envenomation by snakes of different species. In this sense, structural analysis in silico and biological activities in vivo and in vitro were reported. The acids were subdivided into derivatives of benzoic and cinnamic acids, with derivatives of cinnamic acids being the most studied. Studies have revealed that these compounds are capable of inhibiting local and systemic effects induced by envenomation, and structural analyses indicate that the acids interact with important sites responsible for the action of toxins. Thus, it was reported that phenolic acids showed antiophidic potential, providing insights for future research to develop complementary drugs for the treatment of snakebites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah de Sousa Ferreira
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Avenue General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil.
| | - Diana Pontes da Silva
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Avenue General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil.
| | - Manoela Torres-Rêgo
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Avenue General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil; Graduate Program of Chemistry, Chemistry Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Avenue Senador Salgado Filho, 3000, Lagoa Nova, Natal, 59072-970, Brazil.
| | - Arnóbio Antônio da Silva-Júnior
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Avenue General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil.
| | - Matheus de Freitas Fernandes-Pedrosa
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Avenue General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil.
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New Insights into the Hypotensins from Tityus serrulatus Venom: Pro-Inflammatory and Vasopeptidases Modulation Activities. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13120846. [PMID: 34941683 PMCID: PMC8704389 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13120846] [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: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The Tityus serrulatus scorpion is considered the most dangerous of the Brazilian fauna due to the severe clinical manifestations in injured victims. Despite being abundant components of the venom, few linear peptides have been characterized so far, such as hypotensins. In vivo studies have demonstrated that hypotensin I (TsHpt-I) exerts hypotensive activity, with an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-independent mechanism of action. Since experiments have not yet been carried out to analyze the direct interaction of hypotensins with ACE, and to deepen the knowledge about these peptides, hypotensins I and II (TsHpt-II) were studied regarding their modulatory action over the activities of ACE and neprilysin (NEP), which are the peptidases involved in blood pressure control. Aiming to search for indications of possible pro-inflammatory action, hypotensins were also analyzed for their role in murine macrophage viability, the release of interleukins and phagocytic activity. TsHpt-I and -II were used in kinetic studies with the metallopeptidases ACE and NEP, and both hypotensins were able to increase the activity of ACE. TsHpt-I presented itself as an inhibitor of NEP, whereas TsHpt-II showed weak inhibition of the enzyme. The mechanism of inhibition of TsHpt-I in relation to NEP was defined as non-competitive, with an inhibition constant (Ki) of 4.35 μM. Concerning the analysis of cell viability and modulation of interleukin levels and phagocytic activity, BALB/c mice’s naïve macrophages were used, and an increase in TNF production in the presence of TsHpt-I and -II was observed, as well as an increase in IL-6 production in the presence of TsHpt-II only. Both hypotensins were able to increase the phagocytic activity of murine macrophages in vitro. The difference between TsHpt-I and -II is the residue at position 15, with a glutamine in TsHpt-I and a glutamic acid in TsHpt-II. Despite this, kinetic analyzes and cell assays indicated different actions of TsHpt-I and -II. Taken together, these results suggest a new mechanism for the hypotensive effects of TsHpt-I and -II. Furthermore, the release of some interleukins also suggests a role for these peptides in the venom inflammatory response. Even though these molecules have been well studied, the present results suggest a new mechanism for the hypotensive effects of TsHpt-I
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Striking Back against Fungal Infections: The Utilization of Nanosystems for Antifungal Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221810104. [PMID: 34576268 PMCID: PMC8466259 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections have become a major health concern, given that invasive infections by Candida, Cryptococcus, and Aspergillus species have led to millions of mortalities. Conventional antifungal drugs including polyenes, echinocandins, azoles, allylamins, and antimetabolites have been used for decades, but their limitations include off-target toxicity, drug-resistance, poor water solubility, low bioavailability, and weak tissue penetration, which cannot be ignored. These drawbacks have led to the emergence of novel antifungal therapies. In this review, we discuss the nanosystems that are currently utilized for drug delivery and the application of antifungal therapies.
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Rao H, Choo S, Rajeswari Mahalingam SR, Adisuri DS, Madhavan P, Md. Akim A, Chong PP. Approaches for Mitigating Microbial Biofilm-Related Drug Resistance: A Focus on Micro- and Nanotechnologies. Molecules 2021; 26:1870. [PMID: 33810292 PMCID: PMC8036581 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26071870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Biofilms play an essential role in chronic and healthcare-associated infections and are more resistant to antimicrobials compared to their planktonic counterparts due to their (1) physiological state, (2) cell density, (3) quorum sensing abilities, (4) presence of extracellular matrix, (5) upregulation of drug efflux pumps, (6) point mutation and overexpression of resistance genes, and (7) presence of persister cells. The genes involved and their implications in antimicrobial resistance are well defined for bacterial biofilms but are understudied in fungal biofilms. Potential therapeutics for biofilm mitigation that have been reported include (1) antimicrobial photodynamic therapy, (2) antimicrobial lock therapy, (3) antimicrobial peptides, (4) electrical methods, and (5) antimicrobial coatings. These approaches exhibit promising characteristics for addressing the impending crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Recently, advances in the micro- and nanotechnology field have propelled the development of novel biomaterials and approaches to combat biofilms either independently, in combination or as antimicrobial delivery systems. In this review, we will summarize the general principles of clinically important microbial biofilm formation with a focus on fungal biofilms. We will delve into the details of some novel micro- and nanotechnology approaches that have been developed to combat biofilms and the possibility of utilizing them in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harinash Rao
- School of Medicine, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, Selangor 47500, Malaysia; (H.R.); (D.S.A.); (P.M.)
| | - Sulin Choo
- School of Biosciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, Selangor 47500, Malaysia;
| | | | - Diajeng Sekar Adisuri
- School of Medicine, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, Selangor 47500, Malaysia; (H.R.); (D.S.A.); (P.M.)
| | - Priya Madhavan
- School of Medicine, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, Selangor 47500, Malaysia; (H.R.); (D.S.A.); (P.M.)
| | - Abdah Md. Akim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor 43400, Malaysia
| | - Pei Pei Chong
- School of Biosciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, Selangor 47500, Malaysia;
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Abstract
Invasive fungal infections in humans are generally associated with high mortality, making the choice of antifungal drug crucial for the outcome of the patient. The limited spectrum of antifungals available and the development of drug resistance represent the main concerns for the current antifungal treatments, requiring alternative strategies. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), expressed in several organisms and used as first-line defenses against microbial infections, have emerged as potential candidates for developing new antifungal therapies, characterized by negligible host toxicity and low resistance rates. Most of the current literature focuses on peptides with antibacterial activity, but there are fewer studies of their antifungal properties. This review focuses on AMPs with antifungal effects, including their in vitro and in vivo activities, with the biological repercussions on the fungal cells, when known. The classification of the peptides is based on their mode of action: although the majority of AMPs exert their activity through the interaction with membranes, other mechanisms have been identified, including cell wall inhibition and nucleic acid binding. In addition, antifungal compounds with unknown modes of action are also described. The elucidation of such mechanisms can be useful to identify novel drug targets and, possibly, to serve as the templates for the synthesis of new antimicrobial compounds with increased activity and reduced host toxicity.
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13
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Colloidal properties of self-assembled cationic hyperbranched-polyethyleneimine covered poly lactide-co-glycolide nanoparticles: Exploring modified release and cell delivery of methotrexate. J Mol Liq 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2020.113721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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14
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Araujo VHS, Duarte JL, Carvalho GC, Silvestre ALP, Fonseca-Santos B, Marena GD, Ribeiro TDC, Dos Santos Ramos MA, Bauab TM, Chorilli M. Nanosystems against candidiasis: a review of studies performed over the last two decades. Crit Rev Microbiol 2020; 46:508-547. [PMID: 32795108 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2020.1803208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The crescent number of cases of candidiasis and the increase in the number of infections developed by non-albicans species and by multi-resistant strains has taken the attention of the scientific community, which has been searching for new therapeutic alternatives. Among the alternatives found the use of nanosystems for delivery of drugs already commercialized and new biomolecules have grown, in order to increase stability, solubility, optimize efficiency and reduce adverse effects. In view of the growing number of studies involving technological alternatives for the treatment of candidiasis, the present review came with the intention of gathering studies from the last two decades that used nanotechnology for the treatment of candidiasis, as well as analysing them critically and pointing out the future perspectives for their application with this purpose. Different studies were considered for the development of this review, addressing nanosystems such as metallic nanoparticles, mesoporous silica nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, nanoemulsion, microemulsion, solid lipid nanoparticle, nanostructured lipid carrier, lipidic nanocapsules and liquid crystals; and different clinical presentations of candidiasis. As a general overview, nanotechnology has proven to be an important ally for the treatment against the diversity of candidiasis found in the clinic, whether in increasing the effectiveness of commercialized drugs and reducing their adverse effects, as well as allowing exploring more effectively properties therapeutics of new biomolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Hugo Sousa Araujo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jonatas Lobato Duarte
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Corrêa Carvalho
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Bruno Fonseca-Santos
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Davi Marena
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tais de Cassia Ribeiro
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Matheus Aparecido Dos Santos Ramos
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Taís Maria Bauab
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marlus Chorilli
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
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15
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Furtado AA, Daniele-Silva A, Silva-Júnior AAD, Fernandes-Pedrosa MDF. Biology, venom composition, and scorpionism induced by brazilian scorpion Tityus stigmurus (Thorell, 1876) (Scorpiones: Buthidae): A mini-review. Toxicon 2020; 185:36-45. [PMID: 32585220 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Scorpionism is a serious public health problem in various regions of the world. In Brazil, a high number of accidents by scorpions have been reported. From 2014 to 2018, about 547,000 cases were recorded, resulting in 466 deaths. The scorpion Tityus stigmurus is the predominant species in the northeast of Brazil, being responsible for most scorpionism cases in this region. With the aid of the transcriptomic approach of the venom gland of this species, components as neurotoxins, antimicrobials, metal chelating peptides and hypotensins, have been identified and characterized in silico, showing different biologic activity in vitro. In addition, the neuronal, pancreatic, renal, and enzymatic effects have been demonstrated for the crude T. stigmurus venom. Therefore, the T. stigmurus scorpion venom constitutes a rich arsenal of bioactive molecules with high potential for therapeutic and biotechnological application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allanny Alves Furtado
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil.
| | - Alessandra Daniele-Silva
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil.
| | - Arnóbio Antônio da Silva-Júnior
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil.
| | - Matheus de Freitas Fernandes-Pedrosa
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil.
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16
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Li C, Han Y, Fan S, Ma L, Zhang Y, Simpson BK. Effect of three kinds of natural preservative cocktails on vacuum-packed chilled pork. Food Sci Nutr 2020; 8:3110-3118. [PMID: 32724575 PMCID: PMC7382183 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.1535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of three different natural preservatives on the microbial profile, the total volatile base nitrogen (TVB-N), and biogenic amine contents of vacuum-packed chilled pork during storage at 4°C. Solution A comprised of tea polyphenols, chitosan, spice extract, propolis, and nisin. Solution B comprised of clove extract, cassia bark extract, ginger juice, garlic juice, and lactobacillus fermentation solution. Solution C consisted of only lactobacillus fermentation solution. The results indicated that solution A was a good natural preservative with higher bacteria inhibitory effect and higher sensory score than B and C. Besides the effect on appealing color, solution B could inhibit microbial activity although its inhibition effect was not as good as solution A. Thus, solution A could be used as a good preservative in industry. Solution C could inhibit the initial growth of Pseudomonas and partially inhibited the growth of Enterobacteriaceae; however, the content of putrescine in the pork treated with solution C was as high as 30.14 ± 2.89 mg/kg after 21 days of storage at 4°C. Hence, solution C is not an ideal preservative for vacuum-packed chilled pork.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Li
- School of Life ScienceShanxi UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Yuhang Han
- School of Life ScienceShanxi UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Sanhong Fan
- School of Life ScienceShanxi UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Lizhen Ma
- Department of Food ScienceTianjin Agricultural UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Food Science and Agricultural ChemistryMcGill University (Macdonald Campus)Ste‐Anne‐de‐BellevueQCCanada
| | - Benjamin Kofi Simpson
- Department of Food Science and Agricultural ChemistryMcGill University (Macdonald Campus)Ste‐Anne‐de‐BellevueQCCanada
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