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Müller J, Hemphill A. In vitro screening technologies for the discovery and development of novel drugs against Toxoplasma gondii. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2024; 19:97-109. [PMID: 37921660 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2023.2276349] [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: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Toxoplasmosis constitutes a challenge for public health, animal production and welfare. Since more than 60 years, only a limited panel of drugs has been in use for clinical applications. AREAS COVERED Herein, the authors describe the methodology and the results of library screening approaches to identify inhibitors of Toxoplasma gondii and related strains. The authors then provide the reader with their expert perspectives for the future. EXPERT OPINION Various library screening projects, in particular those using reporter strains, have led to the identification of numerous compounds with good efficacy and specificity in vitro. However, only few compounds are effective in suitable animal models such as rodents. Whereas no novel compound has cleared the hurdle to applications in humans, the few compounds with known indication and application profiles in human patients are of interest for further investigations. Taken together, drug repurposing as well as high-throughput screening of novel compound libraries may shorten the way to novel drugs against toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Ngaini Z, Abd Halim AN, Rasin F, Wan Zullkiplee WSH. Synthesis and structure–activity relationship studies of mono- and bis-thiourea derivatives featuring halogenated azo dyes with antimicrobial properties. PHOSPHORUS SULFUR 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/10426507.2022.2046577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Ngaini
- Faculty of Resource Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Kota Samarahan, Malaysia
| | - Ainaa Nadiah Abd Halim
- Faculty of Resource Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Kota Samarahan, Malaysia
| | - Ferlicia Rasin
- Faculty of Resource Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Kota Samarahan, Malaysia
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Yeşilkaynak T, Demirdöğen RE, Muslu H, Emen FM. Co(II), Ni(II), and Cu(II) metal complexes based on thiourea ligand: synthesis, characterization, thermal behaviors, anticancer, and antioxidant activities. INORG NANO-MET CHEM 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/24701556.2021.1984532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tuncay Yeşilkaynak
- Afsin Vocational School, Kahramanmaras Sütcü Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Ruken Esra Demirdöğen
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Arts and Science, Cankiri Karatekin University, Cankiri, Turkey
| | - Harun Muslu
- Afsin Vocational School, Kahramanmaras Sütcü Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Fatih Mehmet Emen
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Arts and Science, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur, Turkey
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Mohapatra RK, Das PK, Pradhan MK, El-Ajaily MM, Das D, Salem HF, Mahanta U, Badhei G, Parhi PK, Maihub AA, -E-Zahan MK. Recent Advances in Urea- and Thiourea-Based Metal Complexes: Biological, Sensor, Optical, and Corroson Inhibition Studies. COMMENT INORG CHEM 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/02603594.2019.1594204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ranjan K. Mohapatra
- Department of Chemistry, Government College of Engineering, Keonjhar, Odisha, India
| | - Pradeep K. Das
- Department of Chemistry, N. C. Autonomous College, Jajpur, Odisha, India
| | - Manoj K. Pradhan
- Department of Chemistry, Government College of Engineering, Keonjhar, Odisha, India
| | - Marei M. El-Ajaily
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Benghazi University, Benghazi, Libya
| | - Debadutta Das
- Department of Chemistry, Sukanti Degree College, Subarnapur, Odisha, India
| | - Halima F. Salem
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Benghazi University, Benghazi, Libya
| | - Umakanta Mahanta
- Department of Chemistry, B. B. Mahavidyalaya, Harichandanpur, Keonjhar, Odisha, India
| | - Gouranga Badhei
- Department of Chemistry, SKDAV Government Polytechnic, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Pankaj K. Parhi
- School of Chemical Technology, KIIT Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
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Lundström-Stadelmann B, Rufener R, Ritler D, Zurbriggen R, Hemphill A. The importance of being parasiticidal… an update on drug development for the treatment of alveolar echinococcosis. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2019; 15:e00040. [PMID: 32095613 PMCID: PMC7034016 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2019.e00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The lethal disease alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is caused by the metacestode stage of the fox tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis. Current chemotherapeutical treatment of AE relies on albendazole and mebendazole, with the caveat that these compounds are not parasiticidal. Drugs have to be taken for a prolonged period of time, often life-long, which can cause adverse effects and reduces the patients' quality of life. In some individuals, benzimidazoles are inactive or cause toxicity, leading to treatment discontinuation. Alternatives to benzimidazoles are urgently needed. Over the recent years, in vivo and in vitro models for low-to-medium throughput drug discovery against AE have been set in place. In vitro drug tests include the phosphoglucose-isomerase (PGI) assay to measure physical damage induced to metacestodes, and viability assays to assess parasiticidal activity against metacestodes and stem cells. In vitro models are also employed for studies on mechanisms of action. In vivo models are thus far based on rodents, mainly mice, and benefits could be gained in future by comparative approaches in naturally infected dogs or captive monkeys. For the identification of novel drugs against AE, a rare disease with a low expected market return, drug-repurposing is the most promising strategy. A variety of chemically synthesized compounds as well as natural products have been analyzed with respect to in vitro and/or in vivo activities against AE. We here review and discuss the most active of these compounds including anti-infective compounds (benzimidazoles, nitazoxanide, amphotericin B, itraconazole, clarithromycin, DB1127, and buparvaquone), the anti-infective anti-malarials (artemisinin, ozonids, mefloquine, and MMV665807) and anti-cancer drugs (isoflavones, 2-methoxyestradiol, methotrexate, navelbine, vincristine, kinase inhibitors, metallo-organic ruthenium complexes, bortezomib, and taxanes). Taking into account the efficacy as well as the potential availability for patients, the most promising candidates are new formulations of benzimidazoles and mefloquine. Future drug-repurposing approaches should also target the energy metabolism of E. multilocularis, in particular the understudied malate dismutation pathway, as this offers an essential target in the parasite, which is not present in mammals. Benzimidazoles are used to treat AE, but new drugs are needed. New drugs against AE can be identified by drug repurposing. Drugs against other infectious diseases and cancer can be repurposed against AE. Most promising are new formulations of benzimidazoles and mefloquine. Future approaches should include targeting the energy metabolism of the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britta Lundström-Stadelmann
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Reto Rufener
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dominic Ritler
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Raphael Zurbriggen
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
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Sánchez-Sánchez R, Vázquez P, Ferre I, Ortega-Mora LM. Treatment of Toxoplasmosis and Neosporosis in Farm Ruminants: State of Knowledge and Future Trends. Curr Top Med Chem 2019; 18:1304-1323. [PMID: 30277158 PMCID: PMC6340160 DOI: 10.2174/1568026618666181002113617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis and neosporosis are closely related protozoan diseases that lead to important economic impacts in farm ruminants. Toxoplasma gondii infection mainly causes reproductive failure in small ruminants and is a widespread zoonosis, whereas Neospora caninum infection is one of the most important causes of abortion in cattle worldwide. Vaccination has been considered the most economic measure for controlling these diseases. However, despite vaccine development efforts, only a live-attenuated T. gondii vaccine has been licensed for veterinary use, and no promising vaccines against ne-osporosis have been developed; therefore, vaccine development remains a key goal. Additionally, drug therapy could be a valuable strategy for disease control in farm ruminants, as several drugs that limit T. gondii and N. caninum proliferation and dissemination have been evaluated. This approach may also be relevant to performing an initial drug screening for potential human therapy for zoonotic parasites. Treat-ments can be applied against infections in adult ruminants to minimize the outcomes of a primo-infection or the reactivation of a chronic infection during gestation or in newborn ruminants to avoid infection chronification. In this review, the current status of drug development against toxoplasmosis and neosporo-sis in farm ruminants is presented, and in an effort to promote additional treatment options, prospective drugs that have shown efficacy in vitro and in laboratory animal models of toxoplasmosis and neosporosis are examined
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Sánchez-Sánchez
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia Vázquez
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignacio Ferre
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel Ortega-Mora
- SALUVET, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
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Progress in the pharmacological treatment of human cystic and alveolar echinococcosis: Compounds and therapeutic targets. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006422. [PMID: 29677189 PMCID: PMC5931691 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/31/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Human cystic and alveolar echinococcosis are helmintic zoonotic diseases caused by infections with the larval stages of the cestode parasites Echinococcus granulosus and E. multilocularis, respectively. Both diseases are progressive and chronic, and often fatal if left unattended for E. multilocularis. As a treatment approach, chemotherapy against these orphan and neglected diseases has been available for more than 40 years. However, drug options were limited to the benzimidazoles albendazole and mebendazole, the only chemical compounds currently licensed for treatment in humans. To compensate this therapeutic shortfall, new treatment alternatives are urgently needed, including the identification, development, and assessment of novel compound classes and drug targets. Here is presented a thorough overview of the range of compounds that have been tested against E. granulosus and E. multilocularis in recent years, including in vitro and in vivo data on their mode of action, dosage, administration regimen, therapeutic outcomes, and associated clinical symptoms. Drugs covered included albendazole, mebendazole, and other members of the benzimidazole family and their derivatives, including improved formulations and combined therapies with other biocidal agents. Chemically synthetized molecules previously known to be effective against other infectious and non-infectious conditions such as anti-virals, antibiotics, anti-parasites, anti-mycotics, and anti-neoplastics are addressed. In view of their increasing relevance, natural occurring compounds derived from plant and fungal extracts are also discussed. Special attention has been paid to the recent application of genomic science on drug discovery and clinical medicine, particularly through the identification of small inhibitor molecules tackling key metabolic enzymes or signalling pathways. Human cystic and alveolar echinococcosis (CE and AE), caused by the larval stages of the helminths Echinococcus granulosus and E. multilocularis, respectively, are progressive and chronic diseases affecting more than 1 million people worldwide. Both are considered orphan and neglected diseases by the World Health Organization. As a treatment approach, chemotherapy is limited to the use of benzimidazoles, drugs that stop parasite growth but do not kill the parasite. To compensate this therapeutic shortfall, new treatment alternatives are urgently needed. Here, we present the state-of-the-art regarding the alternative compounds and new formulations of benzimidazoles assayed against these diseases until now. Some of these new and modified compounds, either alone or in combination, could represent a step forward in the treatment of CE and AE. Unfortunately, few compounds have reached clinical trials stage in humans and, when assayed, the design of these studies has not allowed evidence-based conclusions. Thus, there is still an urgent need for defining new compounds or improved formulations of those already assayed, and also for a careful design of clinical protocols that could lead to the draw of a broad international consensus on the use of a defined drug, or a combination of drugs, for the effective treatment of CE and AE.
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Contreras Aguilar E, Echeverría GA, Piro OE, Ulic SE, Jios JL, Tuttolomondo ME, Pérez H. Weak and strong hydrogen bonds conducting the supramolecular framework of 1-butyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)thiourea: crystal structure, vibrational studies, DFT methods, Pixel energies and Hirshfeld surface analysis. Mol Phys 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/00268976.2017.1395917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Contreras Aguilar
- CEQUINOR (CONICET-UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional De La Plata, La Plata, República Argentina
| | - G. A. Echeverría
- Departamento De Física, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional De La Plata e IFLP (CONICET, CCT-La Plata), La Plata, República Argentina
| | - O. E. Piro
- Departamento De Física, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional De La Plata e IFLP (CONICET, CCT-La Plata), La Plata, República Argentina
| | - S. E. Ulic
- CEQUINOR (CONICET-UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional De La Plata, La Plata, República Argentina
- Departamento De Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Nacional De Luján, Luján, Buenos Aires, República Argentina
| | - J. L. Jios
- UNIDAD PLAPIMU-LASEISIC (UNLP-CIC), Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional De La Plata, La Plata, República Argentina
| | - M. E. Tuttolomondo
- INQUINOA, CONICET – Instituto de Química Física, Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional De Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - H. Pérez
- Departamento De Química General e Inorgánica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de La Habana, La Habana, Cuba
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Iron(II) promoted direct synthesis of dibenzo[b,e]oxepin-11(6H)-one derivatives with biological activity. A short synthesis of doxepin. Tetrahedron 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tet.2017.03.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Vibrational spectra and molecular structure of isomeric 1-(adamantan-1-ylcarbonyl)-3-(dichlorophenyl)thioureas. J Mol Struct 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2016.09.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Saeed A, Qamar R, Fattah TA, Flörke U, Erben MF. Recent developments in chemistry, coordination, structure and biological aspects of 1-(acyl/aroyl)-3-(substituted) thioureas. RESEARCH ON CHEMICAL INTERMEDIATES 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11164-016-2811-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Review of Experimental Compounds Demonstrating Anti-Toxoplasma Activity. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2016; 60:7017-7034. [PMID: 27600037 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01176-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous apicomplexan parasite capable of infecting humans and other animals. Current treatment options for T. gondii infection are limited and most have drawbacks, including high toxicity and low tolerability. Additionally, no FDA-approved treatments are available for pregnant women, a high-risk population due to transplacental infection. Therefore, the development of novel treatment options is needed. To aid this effort, this review highlights experimental compounds that, at a minimum, demonstrate inhibition of in vitro growth of T. gondii When available, host cell toxicity and in vivo data are also discussed. The purpose of this review is to facilitate additional development of anti-Toxoplasma compounds and potentially to extend our knowledge of the parasite.
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Human toxoplasmosis–Searching for novel chemotherapeutics. Biomed Pharmacother 2016; 82:677-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.05.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
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Yaseen S, Rauf MK, Zaib S, Badshah A, Tahir MN, Ali MI, Imtiaz-ud-Din, Shahid M, Iqbal J. Synthesis, characterization and urease inhibition, in vitro anticancer and antileishmanial studies of Co(III) complexes with N,N,N′-trisubstituted acylthioureas. Inorganica Chim Acta 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ica.2015.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Synthesis and Bacteriostatic Activities of Bis(thiourea) Derivatives with Variable Chain Length. J CHEM-NY 2016. [DOI: 10.1155/2016/2739832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A series of 1,4-bis(decoxyphenyl)carbamothioyl-terephthalamide derivatives was successfully synthesised by reaction of benzene-1,4-dicarbonyl isothiocyanate intermediates with long alkyl chain. The alkylation was performed via Williamson etherification of 4-acetamidophenol with bromoalkanes. The synthesised bis(thiourea) derivatives differed in the chain length, CnH2n+1, wheren=10, 12, and 14. The structures of all compounds were characterised by elemental CHN analysis, IR,1H, and13C NMR spectroscopies. Bacteriostatic activities of bis(thiourea derivatives which consisted of two folds of N-H, C=O, and C=S and long alkyl chain substituents were carried out against Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, ATCC 25922) via turbidimetric kinetic method. Bis(thiourea) derivatives withn=10andn=12displayed excellent activity againstE. coliwith MIC of 135 µg/mL and 145 µg/mL, respectively, while bis(thiourea) derivatives withn=14acted as cutoff point with no antibacterial properties. Similar trend was observed in binding affinity to the active site of enoyl ACP reductase (FabI), which demonstrated binding free energy of-5.3 Kcal/mol and-4.9and-4.8 Kcal/mol, respectively.
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Rauf MK, Shaheen U, Asghar F, Badshah A, Nadhman A, Azam S, Ali MI, Shahnaz G, Yasinzai M. Antileishmanial, DNA Interaction, and Docking Studies of Some Ferrocene-Based Heteroleptic Pentavalent Antimonials. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2015; 349:50-62. [PMID: 26627058 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.201500312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Revised: 10/31/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A series of ferrocenyl pentavalent antimonials (1-8) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, and multinuclear ((1) H and (13) C) NMR spectroscopy. These antimonials were evaluated for their antileishmanial potential against Leishmania tropica KWH23, and by biocompatibility and membrane permeability assays. Moreover, mechanistic studies were carried out, mediated by DNA targeting followed by computational docking of ferrocenyl antimonials against the leishmanial trypanothione reductase enzyme. It was observed that the antimonials 1-8 were 390-fold more efficacious (IC50 ) as compared with the standard antimonial drug used. Cytotoxicity results showed that these antimonials are highly active even at low concentrations and are biocompatible with human macrophages. Antimonials 1-8 exhibited extensive intercalation with DNA and, furthermore, docking interactions highlighted the potential interactive binding of the anitimonials within the trypanothione reductase active site, with van der Waals interactions contributing significantly to the process. Hence, it is suggested that the reported antimonials demonstrate high efficacy, less toxicity, and target multiple sites of the Leishmania parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ummara Shaheen
- National Center for Bioinformatics, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Faiza Asghar
- Department of Chemistry, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Amin Badshah
- Department of Chemistry, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Akhtar Nadhman
- National Center for Bioinformatics, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Sikander Azam
- National Center for Bioinformatics, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Gul Shahnaz
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Masoom Yasinzai
- National Center for Bioinformatics, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
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Saeed A, Khurshid A, Bolte M, Fantoni AC, Erben MF. Intra- and intermolecular hydrogen bonding and conformation in 1-acyl thioureas: an experimental and theoretical approach on 1-(2-chlorobenzoyl)thiourea. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2015; 143:59-66. [PMID: 25710115 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2015.02.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2014] [Revised: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The vibrational analysis (FT-IR and FT-Raman) for the new 1-(2-chlorobenzoyl)thiourea species suggests that strong intramolecular interactions affect the conformational properties. The X-ray structure determination corroborates that an intramolecular N-H⋯OC hydrogen bond occurs between the carbonyl (-CO) and thioamide (-NH2) groups. Moreover, periodic system electron density and topological analysis have been applied to characterize the intermolecular interactions in the crystal. Extended N-H⋯SC hydrogen-bonding networks between both the thioamide (N-H) and carbamide (NH2) groups and the thiocarbonyl bond (CS) determine the crystal packing. The Natural Bond Orbital (NBO) population analysis demonstrates that strong hyperconjugative remote interactions are responsible for both, intra and intermolecular interactions. The Atom in Molecule (AIM) results also show that the N-H⋯Cl intramolecular hydrogen bond between the 2-Cl-phenyl ring and the amide group characterized in the free molecule changes to an N⋯Cl interaction as a consequence of crystal packing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aamer Saeed
- Department of Chemistry, Quaid-I-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan.
| | - Asma Khurshid
- Department of Chemistry, Quaid-I-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
| | - Michael Bolte
- Institut für Anorganische Chemie, J.W.-Goethe-Universität, Max-von-Laue-Str. 7, D-60438 Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Adolfo C Fantoni
- Instituto de Física La Plata, Departamento de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, 49 y 115, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mauricio F Erben
- CEQUINOR (UNLP, CONICET-CCT La Plata), Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, C.C. 962 (1900), La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Rauf MK, Yaseen S, Badshah A, Zaib S, Arshad R, Tahir MN, Iqbal J. Synthesis, characterization and urease inhibition, in vitro anticancer and antileishmanial studies of Ni(II) complexes with N,N,N'-trisubstituted thioureas. J Biol Inorg Chem 2015; 20:541-54. [PMID: 25604966 DOI: 10.1007/s00775-015-1239-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
A series of N,N,N'-trisubstituted thioureas (1-12) and their Ni(II) complexes (1a-12a) were synthesized and characterized by multinuclear ((1)H and (13)C) NMR, FT-IR spectroscopy and LC-MS techniques in combination with elemental analysis. The crystal structures of both ligands and Ni(II) chelates of type Ni(L-O, S)2 were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. All the complexes were adopted to have square planar geometry, where the N,N,N'-trisubstituted thioureas showed bidentate mode of coordination at nickel centre through oxygen and sulfur atoms. The synthesized complexes were screened for potential inhibitors of Jack bean urease. Compounds 1a and 3a were observed as most potent inhibitors of urease exhibiting IC50 values of 1.17 ± 0.12 and 1.19 ± 0.41 µM, respectively. Cytotoxicity assay on lung carcinoma (H-157) and kidney fibroblast (BHK-21) cell showed that compounds were significant anticancer agents. Additionally, the complexes were tested against Leishmania major and found to be potent antileishmanial agents.
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Saeed A, Bolte M, Erben MF, Pérez H. Intermolecular interactions in crystalline 1-(adamantane-1-carbonyl)-3-substituted thioureas with Hirshfeld surface analysis. CrystEngComm 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c5ce01373a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The 1-acyl thiourea synthon is characterized through a complete Hirshfeld surface analysis for a series of six closely related 1-(adamantane-1-carbonyl) thioureas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aamer Saeed
- Department of Chemistry
- Quaid-I-Azam University
- Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
| | - Michael Bolte
- Institut für Anorganische Chemie
- J. W. Goethe Universität
- D-60438 Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Mauricio F. Erben
- CEQUINOR (UNLP, CONICET-CCT La Plata)
- Departamento de Química
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas
- Universidad Nacional de La Plata
- La Plata 1900, República Argentina
| | - Hiram Pérez
- Departamento de Química Inorgánica
- Facultad de Química
- Universidad de la Habana
- Habana 10400, Cuba
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Schnitzler EG, Jäger W. The benzoic acid-water complex: a potential atmospheric nucleation precursor studied using microwave spectroscopy and ab initio calculations. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2014; 16:2305-14. [PMID: 24366483 DOI: 10.1039/c3cp54486a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The pure rotational, high-resolution spectrum of the benzoic acid-water complex was measured in the range of 4-14 GHz, using a cavity-based molecular beam Fourier-transform microwave spectrometer. In all, 40 a-type transitions and 2 b-type transitions were measured for benzoic acid-water, and 12 a-type transitions were measured for benzoic acid-D2O. The equilibrium geometry of benzoic acid-water was determined with ab initio calculations, at the B3LYP, M06-2X, and MP2 levels of theory, with the 6-311++G(2df,2pd) basis set. The experimental rotational spectrum is most consistent with the B3LYP-predicted geometry. Narrow splittings were observed in the b-type transitions, and possible tunnelling motions were investigated using the B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory. Rotation of the water moiety about the lone electron pair hydrogen-bonded to benzoic acid, across a barrier of 7.0 kJ mol(-1), is the most likely cause for the splitting. Wagging of the unbound hydrogen atom of water is barrier-less, and this large amplitude motion results in the absence of c-type transitions. The interaction and spectroscopic dissociation energies calculated using B3LYP and MP2 are in good agreement, but those calculated using M06-2X indicate excess stabilization, possibly due to dispersive interactions being over-estimated. The equilibrium constant of hydration was calculated by statistical thermodynamics, using ab initio results and the experimental rotational constants. This allowed us to estimate the changes in percentage of hydrated benzoic acid with variations in the altitude, region, and season. Using monitoring data from Calgary, Alberta, and the MP2-predicted dissociation energy, a yearly average of 1% of benzoic acid is expected to be present in the form of benzoic acid-water. However, this percentage depends sensitively on the dissociation energy. For example, when using the M06-2X-predicted dissociation energy, we find it increases to 18%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elijah G Schnitzler
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, 11227 Saskatchewan Drive, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2G2, Canada.
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Competing intramolecular NHOC hydrogen bonds and extended intermolecular network in 1-(4-chlorobenzoyl)-3-(2-methyl-4-oxopentan-2-yl) thiourea analyzed by experimental and theoretical methods. Chem Phys 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphys.2014.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Plutín AM, Mocelo R, Alvarez A, Ramos R, Castellano EE, Cominetti MR, Graminha AE, Ferreira AG, Batista AA. On the cytotoxic activity of Pd(II) complexes of N,N-disubstituted-N'-acyl thioureas. J Inorg Biochem 2014; 134:76-82. [PMID: 24561278 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2014.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2013] [Revised: 01/29/2014] [Accepted: 01/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The rational design of anticancer drugs is one of the most promising strategies for increasing their cytotoxicity and for minimizing their toxicity. Manipulation of the structure of ligands or of complexes represents a strategy for which is possible to modify the potential mechanism of their action against the cancer cells. Here we present the cytotoxicity of some new palladium complexes and our intention is to show the importance of non-coordinated atoms of the ligands in the cytotoxicity of the complexes. New complexes of palladium (II), with general formulae [Pd(PPh3)2(L)]PF6 or [PdCl(PPh3)(L)], where L=N,N-disubstituted-N'-acyl thioureas, were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, molar conductivity, melting points, IR, NMR((1)H, (13)C and (31)P{(1)H}) spectroscopy. The spectroscopic data are consistent with the complexes containing an O, S chelated ligand. The structures of complexes with N,N-dimethyl-N'-benzoylthiourea, N,N-diphenyl-N'-benzoylthiourea, N,N-diethyl-N'-furoylthiourea, and N,N-diphenyl-N'-furoylthiourea were determined by X-ray crystallography, confirming the coordination of the ligands with the metal through sulfur and oxygen atoms, forming distorted square-planar structures. The N,N-disubstituted-N'-acyl thioureas and their complexes were screened with respect to their antitumor cytotoxicity against DU-145 (human prostate cancer cells), MDA-MB-231 (human breast cancer cells) and their toxicity against the L929 cell line (health cell line from mouse).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Plutín
- Laboratorio de Síntesis Orgánica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de La Habana, La Habana, Cuba.
| | - Raúl Mocelo
- Laboratorio de Síntesis Orgánica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de La Habana, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Anislay Alvarez
- Laboratorio de Síntesis Orgánica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de La Habana, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Raúl Ramos
- Laboratorio de Síntesis Orgánica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de La Habana, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Eduardo E Castellano
- Instituto de Química de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcia R Cominetti
- Departamento de Gerontologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Angelica E Graminha
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Antonio G Ferreira
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Alzir A Batista
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.
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Koca İ, Özgür A, Coşkun KA, Tutar Y. Synthesis and anticancer activity of acyl thioureas bearing pyrazole moiety. Bioorg Med Chem 2013; 21:3859-65. [PMID: 23664495 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2013.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2013] [Revised: 04/02/2013] [Accepted: 04/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In this work novel organic based compounds, acyl thiourea derivatives were synthesized and their anticancer activities were investigated. A new series of acyl thiourea derivatives containing pyrazole ring were prepared in good yield through one pot reaction of 4-benzoyl-1, 5-diphenyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carbonyl chloride with ammonium thiocyanate and various amines. The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by IR, (1)H NMR, (13)C NMR and elemental analysis. Anticancer activities of synthesized compounds were evaluated on human colon, liver and leukemia cancer cell lines. Cell culture studies have demonstrated significant toxicity of the compounds on the cell lines, and the levels of toxicity have altered in the presence of various side groups. These results confirm that novel pyrazolyl acyl thioureas derived compounds may be utilized for cancer treatment. Furthermore, these compounds have a great potential and significance for further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- İrfan Koca
- Bozok University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Yozgat, Turkey.
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In vitro efficacy of triclabendazole and clorsulon against the larval stage of Echinococcus multilocularis. Parasitol Res 2013; 112:1655-60. [PMID: 23455934 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-013-3321-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2012] [Accepted: 01/24/2013] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) caused by the cestode Echinococcus multilocularis (E. multilocularis) is endemic in wide areas of the Northern hemisphere. Untreated AE progresses and leads to death in more than 90% of cases. Until the advent of benzimidazoles, no antihelminthic drugs were available to cure AE. Benzimidazoles have greatly improved the prognosis of patients with AE. However, benzimidazoles have only a parasitostatic effect on E. multilocularis. Albendazole (ABZ) must sometimes be withdrawn because of adverse events. Alternative drugs are urgently needed. The antihelminthic triclabendazole (TCZ) and clorsulon (CLS) are more effective than ABZ to cure infections by the liver flukes Fasciola spp. The efficacy of TCZ and CLS was investigated on an in vitro culture of E. multilocularis larval tissue. E. multilocularis vesicles were evaluated for their morphology before and after adding TCZ, TCZ sulfoxide (TCZSX) and CLS to the larval tissue culture. TCZ at the concentrations of 20 μg/ml culture solution led to maximum vesicle damage within 12 days and of 25 μg/ml within 13 days, and TCZSX at the concentrations of 20 μg/ml within 20 days and of 25 μg/ml within 14 days. Contrary, CLS added at 5, 10 and 15 μg/ml to culture solution did not lead to any vesicle damage. TCZ is a promising further candidate drug for the treatment of AE.
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Müller J, Hemphill A. New approaches for the identification of drug targets in protozoan parasites. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2013; 301:359-401. [PMID: 23317822 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-407704-1.00007-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Antiparasitic chemotherapy is an important issue for drug development. Traditionally, novel compounds with antiprotozoan activities have been identified by screening of compound libraries in high-throughput systems. More recently developed approaches employ target-based drug design supported by genomics and proteomics of protozoan parasites. In this chapter, the drug targets in protozoan parasites are reviewed. The gene-expression machinery has been among the first targets for antiparasitic drugs and is still under investigation as a target for novel compounds. Other targets include cytoskeletal proteins, proteins involved in intracellular signaling, membranes, and enzymes participating in intermediary metabolism. In apicomplexan parasites, the apicoplast is a suitable target for established and novel drugs. Some drugs act on multiple subcellular targets. Drugs with nitro groups generate free radicals under anaerobic growth conditions, and drugs with peroxide groups generate radicals under aerobic growth conditions, both affecting multiple cellular pathways. Mefloquine and thiazolides are presented as examples for antiprotozoan compounds with multiple (side) effects. The classic approach of drug discovery employing high-throughput physiological screenings followed by identification of drug targets has yielded the mainstream of current antiprotozoal drugs. Target-based drug design supported by genomics and proteomics of protozoan parasites has not produced any antiparasitic drug so far. The reason for this is discussed and a synthesis of both methods is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Berne, Berne, Switzerland.
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Müller J, Hemphill A. In vitro culture systems for the study of apicomplexan parasites in farm animals. Int J Parasitol 2012; 43:115-24. [PMID: 23000674 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2012.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2012] [Revised: 08/08/2012] [Accepted: 08/14/2012] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
In vitro culture systems represent powerful tools for the study of apicomplexan parasites such as Cryptosporidium, Eimeria, Sarcocystis, Neospora, Toxoplasma, Besnoitia, Babesia and Theileria, all with high relevance for farm animals. Proliferative stages of these parasites have been cultured in vitro employing a large variety of cell culture and explant approaches. For some, such as Cryptosporidium and Eimeria, the sexual development has been reproduced in cell cultures, while for others, animal experimentation is required to fulfill the life cycle. In vitro cultures have paved the way to exploit the basic biology of these organisms, and had a major impact on the development of tools for diagnostic purposes. With the aid of in vitro cultivation, studies on host-parasite interactions, on factors involved in innate resistance, stage conversion and differentiation, genetics and transfection technology, vaccine candidates and drug effectiveness could be carried out. The use of transgenic parasites has facilitated high-throughput screening of anti-microbial compounds that are active against the proliferative stages. Here, we review the basic features of cell culture-based in vitro systems for apicomplexan parasites that are relevant for farm animals, and discuss their applications with a focus on drug identification and studies of stage differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Berne, Länggass-Strasse 122, CH-3012 Berne, Switzerland.
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The adaptive potential of a survival artist: characterization of the in vitro interactions of Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites with di-cationic compounds in human fibroblast cell cultures. Parasitology 2011; 139:208-20. [PMID: 22011664 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182011001776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The impact of di-cationic pentamidine-analogues against Toxoplama gondii (Rh- and Me49-background) was investigated. The 72 h-growth assays showed that the arylimidamide DB750 inhibited the proliferation of tachyzoites of T. gondii Rh and T. gondii Me49 with an IC(50) of 0·11 and 0·13 μM, respectively. Pre-incubation of fibroblast monolayers with 1 μM DB750 for 12 h and subsequent culture in the absence of the drug also resulted in a pronounced inhibiton of parasite proliferation. However, upon 5-6 days of drug exposure, T. gondii tachyzoites adapted to the compound and resumed proliferation up to a concentration of 1·2 μM. Out of a set of 32 di-cationic compounds screened for in vitro activity against T. gondii, the arylimidamide DB745, exhibiting an IC(50) of 0·03 μM and favourable selective toxicity was chosen for further studies. DB745 also inhibited the proliferation of DB750-adapted T. gondii (IC(50)=0·07 μM). In contrast to DB750, DB745 also had a profound negative impact on extracellular non-adapted T. gondii tachyzoites, but not on DB750-adapted T. gondii. Adaptation of T. gondii to DB745 (up to a concentration of 0·46 μM) was much more difficult to achieve and feasible only over a period of 110 days. In cultures infected with DB750-adapted T. gondii seemingly intact parasites could occasionally be detected by TEM. This illustrates the astonishing capacity of T. gondii tachyzoites to adapt to environmental changes, at least under in vitro conditions, and suggests that DB745 could be an interesting drug candidate for further assessments in appropriate in vivo models.
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In vitro efficacy of dicationic compounds and mefloquine enantiomers against Echinococcus multilocularis metacestodes. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2011; 55:4866-72. [PMID: 21768518 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00478-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The current chemotherapy of alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is based on benzimidazoles such as albendazole and has been shown to be parasitostatic rather than parasiticidal, requiring lifelong duration. Thus, new and more efficient treatment options are urgently needed. By employing a recently validated assay based on the release of functional phosphoglucose isomerase (PGI) from dying parasites, the activities of 26 dicationic compounds and of the (+)- and (-)-erythro-enantiomers of mefloquine were investigated. Initial screening of compounds was performed at 40 μM, and those compounds exhibiting considerable antiparasitic activities were also assessed at lower concentrations. Of the dicationic drugs, DB1127 (a diguanidino compound) with activities comparable to nitazoxanide was further studied. The activity of DB1127 was dose dependent and led to severe structural alterations, as visualized by electron microscopy. The (+)- and (-)-erythro-enantiomers of mefloquine showed similar dose-dependent effects, although higher concentrations of these compounds than of DB1127 were required for metacestode damage. In conclusion, of the drugs investigated here, the diguanidino compound DB1127 represents the most promising compound for further study in appropriate in vivo models for Echinococcus multilocularis infection.
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Identification of a host cell target for the thiazolide class of broad-spectrum anti-parasitic drugs. Exp Parasitol 2011; 128:145-50. [PMID: 21335006 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2011.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2010] [Revised: 02/01/2011] [Accepted: 02/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The thiazolide nitazoxanide (NTZ) and some derivatives exhibit considerable in vitro activities against a broad range of parasites, including the apicomplexans Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites. In order to identify potential molecular targets for this compound in both parasites, RM4847 was coupled to epoxy-agarose and affinity chromatography was performed. A protein of approximately 35 kDa was eluted upon RM4847-affinity-chromatography from extracts of N. caninum-infected human foreskin fibroblasts (HFF) and non-infected HFF, but no protein was eluted when affinity chromatography was performed with T. gondii or N. caninum tachyzoite extracts. Mass spectrometry analysis identified the 35 kDa protein as human quinone reductase NQO1 (P15559; QR). Within 8h after infection of HFF with N. caninum tachyzoites, QR transcript expression levels were notably increased, but no such increase was observed upon infection with T. gondii tachyzoites. Treatment of non-infected HFF with RM4847 did also lead to an increase of QR transcript levels. The enzymatic activity of 6-histidine-tagged recombinant QR (recQR) was assayed using menadione as a substrate. The thiazolides NTZ, tizoxanide and RM4847 inhibited recQR activity on menadione in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, a small residual reducing activity was observed when these thiazolides were offered as substrates.
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Küster T, Stadelmann B, Hermann C, Scholl S, Keiser J, Hemphill A. In vitro and in vivo efficacies of mefloquine-based treatment against alveolar echinococcosis. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2011; 55:713-21. [PMID: 21135182 PMCID: PMC3028781 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01392-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2010] [Accepted: 11/24/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is caused by the metacestode stage of the fox tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis and causes severe disease in the human liver, and occasionally in other organs, that is fatal when treatment is unsuccessful. The present chemotherapy against AE is based on mebendazole and albendazole. Albendazole treatment has been found to be ineffective in some instances, is parasitostatic rather than parasiticidal, and usually involves the lifelong uptake of large doses of drugs. Thus, new treatment options are urgently needed. In this study we investigated the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of mefloquine against E. multilocularis metacestodes. Treatment using mefloquine (20 μM) against in vitro cultures of metacestodes resulted in rapid and complete detachment of large parts of the germinal layer from the inner surface of the laminated layer within a few hours. The in vitro activity of mefloquine was dependent on the dosage. In vitro culture of metacestodes in the presence of 24 μM mefloquine for a period of 10 days was parasiticidal, as determined by murine bioassays, while treatment with 12 μM was not. Oral application of mefloquine (25 mg/kg of body weight administered twice a week for a period of 8 weeks) in E. multilocularis-infected mice was ineffective in achieving any reduction of parasite weight, whereas treatment with albendazole (200 mg/kg/day) was highly effective. However, when the same mefloquine dosage was applied intraperitoneally, the reduction in parasite weight was similar to the reduction seen with oral albendazole application. Combined application of both drugs did not increase the treatment efficacy. In conclusion, mefloquine represents an interesting drug candidate for the treatment of AE, and these results should be followed up in appropriate in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Küster
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Berne, Berne, Switzerland
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Synthesis and antimicrobial screening of N-(1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carbonyl)-thiourea derivatives. Med Chem Res 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s00044-010-9541-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Müller J, Nillius D, Hehl A, Hemphill A, Müller N. Stable expression of Escherichia coli beta-glucuronidase A (GusA) in Giardia lamblia: application to high-throughput drug susceptibility testing. J Antimicrob Chemother 2009; 64:1187-91. [PMID: 19820251 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkp363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In order to create a suitable model for high-throughput drug screening, a Giardia lamblia WB C6 strain expressing Escherichia coli glucuronidase A (GusA) was created and tested with respect to susceptibility to the anti-giardial drugs nitazoxanide and metronidazole. METHODS GusA, a well-established reporter gene in other systems, was cloned into the vector pPacVInteg allowing stable expression in G. lamblia under control of the promoter from the glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) gene. The resulting transgenic strain was compared with the wild-type strain in a vitality assay, characterized with respect to susceptibility to nitazoxanide, metronidazole and -- as assessed in a 96-well plate format -- to a panel of 15 other compounds to be tested for anti-giardial activity. RESULTS GusA was stably expressed in G. lamblia. Using a simple glucuronidase assay protocol, drug efficacy tests yielded results similar to those from cell counting. CONCLUSIONS G. lamblia WB C6 GusA is a suitable tool for high-throughput anti-giardial drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Berne, Berne, Switzerland.
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