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Cai Y, Wang X, Zhang T, Yan A, Luo L, Li C, Tian G, Wu Z, Wang X, Shen D, Han Y, Zhang Z. Rational Design of a Potent Antimicrobial Peptide Based on the Active Region of a Gecko Cathelicidin. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:951-960. [PMID: 38315114 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria presents a significant challenge to public health, increasing the risk of infections that are resistant to current antibiotic treatment. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) offer a promising alternative to conventional antibiotics in the prevention of MDR bacterial infections. In the present study, we identified a novel cathelicidin AMP from Gekko japonicus, which exhibited broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, with minimal inhibitory concentrations ranging from 2.34 to 4.69 μg/mL. To improve its potential therapeutic application, a series of peptides was synthesized based on the active region of the gecko-derived cathelicidin. The lead peptide (RH-16) showed an antimicrobial activity comparable to that of the parent peptide. Structural characterization revealed that RH-16 adopted an amphipathic α-helical conformation. Furthermore, RH-16 demonstrated neither hemolytic nor cytotoxic activity but effectively killed a wide range of clinically isolated, drug-resistant bacteria. The antimicrobial activity of RH-16 was attributed to the nonspecific targeting of bacterial membranes, leading to rapid bacterial membrane permeabilization and rupture. RH-16 also retained its antibacterial activity in plasma and exhibited mild toxicity in vivo. Notably, RH-16 offered robust protection against skin infection in a murine model. Therefore, this newly identified cathelicidin AMP may be a strong candidate for future pharmacological development targeting multidrug resistance. The use of a rational design approach for isolating the minimal antimicrobial unit may accelerate the transition of natural AMPs to clinically applicable antibacterial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cai
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan 650031, China
| | - Xingyu Wang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan 650031, China
| | - Tianyu Zhang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan 650031, China
| | - An Yan
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan 650031, China
| | - Lin Luo
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, Yunnan 650118, China
| | - Chenxi Li
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, Yunnan 650118, China
| | - Gengzhou Tian
- Department of Breast Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
| | - Zhongxiang Wu
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan 650031, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan 650031, China
| | - Dong Shen
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan 650031, China
| | - Yajun Han
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Zhiye Zhang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan 650031, China
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Hernández-Arvizu EE, Silis-Moreno TM, García-Arredondo JA, Rodríguez-Torres A, Cervantes-Chávez JA, Mosqueda J. Aquiluscidin, a Cathelicidin from Crotalus aquilus, and the Vcn-23 Derivative Peptide, Have Anti-Microbial Activity against Gram-Negative and Gram-Positive Bacteria. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2778. [PMID: 38004789 PMCID: PMC10673557 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11112778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-microbial peptides play a vital role in the defense mechanisms of various organisms performing functions that range from the elimination of microorganisms, through diverse mechanisms, to the modulation of the immune response, providing protection to the host. Among these peptides, cathelicidins, a well-studied family of anti-microbial peptides, are found in various animal species, including reptiles. Due to the rise in anti-microbial resistance, these compounds have been suggested as potential candidates for developing new drugs. In this study, we identified and characterized a cathelicidin-like peptide called Aquiluscidin (Aq-CATH) from transcripts obtained from the skin and oral mucosa of the Querétaro's dark rattlesnake, Crotalus aquilus. The cDNA was cloned, sequenced, and yielded a 566-base-pair sequence. Using bioinformatics, we predicted that the peptide precursor contains a signal peptide, a 101-amino-acid conserved cathelin domain, an anionic region, and a 34-amino-acid mature peptide in the C-terminal region. Aq-CATH and a derived 23-amino-acid peptide (Vcn-23) were synthesized, and their anti-microbial activity was evaluated against various species of bacteria in in vitro assays. The minimal inhibitory concentrations against bacteria ranged from 2 to 8 μg/mL for both peptides. Furthermore, at concentrations of up to 50 μM, they exhibited no significant hemolytic activity (<2.3% and <1.2% for Aquiluscidin and Vcn-23, respectively) against rat erythrocytes and displayed no significant cytotoxic activity at low concentrations (>65% cell viability at 25 µM). Finally, this study represents the first identification of an antimicrobial peptide in Crotalus aquilus, which belongs to the cathelicidin family and exhibits the characteristic features of these peptides. Both Aq-CATH and its derived molecule, Vcn-23, displayed remarkable inhibitory activity against all tested bacteria, highlighting their potential as promising candidates for further antimicrobial research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin Esaú Hernández-Arvizu
- Immunology and Vaccine Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences College, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico; (E.E.H.-A.)
- Ph.D. Program in Natural Sciences, Natural Sciences College, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico
| | - Teresa Monserrat Silis-Moreno
- Immunology and Vaccine Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences College, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico; (E.E.H.-A.)
| | - José Alejandro García-Arredondo
- Departamento de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario S/N, Queretaro 76010, Mexico;
| | - Angelina Rodríguez-Torres
- Natural Sciences College, Autonomous University of Querétaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico; (A.R.-T.); (J.A.C.-C.)
- Cuerpo Academico Salud Animal y Microbiología Ambiental, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico
| | | | - Juan Mosqueda
- Immunology and Vaccine Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences College, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico; (E.E.H.-A.)
- Cuerpo Academico Salud Animal y Microbiología Ambiental, Autonomous University of Queretaro, Queretaro 76230, Mexico
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Rangel K, Lechuga GC, Provance DW, Morel CM, De Simone SG. An Update on the Therapeutic Potential of Antimicrobial Peptides against Acinetobacter baumannii Infections. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1281. [PMID: 37765087 PMCID: PMC10537560 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The rise in antibiotic-resistant strains of clinically important pathogens is a major threat to global health. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the urgent need to develop alternative treatments to address the growing list of priority pathogens. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) rank among the suggested options with proven activity and high potential to be developed into effective drugs. Many AMPs are naturally produced by living organisms protecting the host against pathogens as a part of their innate immunity. Mechanisms associated with AMP actions include cell membrane disruption, cell wall weakening, protein synthesis inhibition, and interference in nucleic acid dynamics, inducing apoptosis and necrosis. Acinetobacter baumannii is a critical pathogen, as severe clinical implications have developed from isolates resistant to current antibiotic treatments and conventional control procedures, such as UV light, disinfectants, and drying. Here, we review the natural AMPs representing primary candidates for new anti-A. baumannii drugs in post-antibiotic-era and present computational tools to develop the next generation of AMPs with greater microbicidal activity and reduced toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karyne Rangel
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute of Science and Technology for Innovation in Neglected Population Diseases (INCT-IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (K.R.); (G.C.L.); (D.W.P.J.); (C.M.M.)
- Epidemiology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory (LEMS), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Curty Lechuga
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute of Science and Technology for Innovation in Neglected Population Diseases (INCT-IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (K.R.); (G.C.L.); (D.W.P.J.); (C.M.M.)
- Epidemiology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory (LEMS), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - David W. Provance
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute of Science and Technology for Innovation in Neglected Population Diseases (INCT-IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (K.R.); (G.C.L.); (D.W.P.J.); (C.M.M.)
- Epidemiology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory (LEMS), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Carlos M. Morel
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute of Science and Technology for Innovation in Neglected Population Diseases (INCT-IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (K.R.); (G.C.L.); (D.W.P.J.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Salvatore G. De Simone
- Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS), National Institute of Science and Technology for Innovation in Neglected Population Diseases (INCT-IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil; (K.R.); (G.C.L.); (D.W.P.J.); (C.M.M.)
- Epidemiology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory (LEMS), Oswaldo Cruz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
- Program of Post-Graduation on Science and Biotechnology, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Biology Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 22040-036, RJ, Brazil
- Program of Post-Graduation on Parasitic Biology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
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Chen X, Su S, Yan Y, Yin L, Liu L. Anti- Pseudomonas aeruginosa activity of natural antimicrobial peptides when used alone or in combination with antibiotics. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1239540. [PMID: 37731929 PMCID: PMC10508351 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1239540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization has recently published a list of 12 drug-resistant bacteria that posed a significant threat to human health, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) was among them. In China, P. aeruginosa is a common pathogen in hospital acquired pneumonia, accounting for 16.9-22.0%. It is a ubiquitous opportunistic pathogen that can infect individuals with weakened immune systems, leading to hospital-acquired acute and systemic infections. The excessive use of antibiotics has led to the development of various mechanisms in P. aeruginosa to resist conventional drugs. Thus, there is an emergence of multidrug-resistant strains, posing a major challenge to conventional antibiotics and therapeutic approaches. Antimicrobial peptides are an integral component of host defense and have been found in many living organisms. Most antimicrobial peptides are characterized by negligible host toxicity and low resistance rates, making them become promising for use as antimicrobial products. This review particularly focuses on summarizing the inhibitory activity of natural antimicrobial peptides against P. aeruginosa planktonic cells and biofilms, as well as the drug interactions when these peptides used in combination with conventional antibiotics. Moreover, the underlying mechanism of these antimicrobial peptides against P. aeruginosa strains was mainly related to destroy the membrane structure through interacting with LPS or increasing ROS levels, or targeting cellular components, leaded to cell lysis. Hopefully, this analysis will provide valuable experimental data on developing novel compounds to combat P. aeruginosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqi Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shan Su
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Taian, China
| | - Yan Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Limei Yin
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lihong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
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Jiao X, Dong X, Shan H, Qin Z. Assessing the Efficacy of PLGA-Loaded Antimicrobial Peptide OH-CATH30 Microspheres for the Treatment of Bacterial Keratitis: A Promising Approach. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1244. [PMID: 37627308 PMCID: PMC10452858 DOI: 10.3390/biom13081244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial keratitis in animals presents challenges due to ocular structural barriers, hindering effective drug delivery. In this study, we used biocompatible and biodegradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) to encapsulate the naturally occurring antimicrobial peptide OH-CATH30, an alternative to conventional antibiotics, for the treatment of bacterial keratitis in animals. Microspheres (MS) were prepared using a modified water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) double-emulsion method with optimized osmotic pressure. We conducted comprehensive evaluations, including in vitro characterization, encapsulation efficiency determination, in vitro release kinetics, and in vivo/vitro assessments of irritation and bacterial inhibition. The optimized method yielded microspheres with impressive encapsulation efficiency of 75.2 ± 3.62% and a loading capacity of 18.25 ± 5.73%, exhibiting a well-defined particle size distribution (200-1000 nm) and a ζ-potential of -17.3 ± 1.91 mV. The microspheres demonstrated initial burst release followed by sustained and controlled release in vitro. Both in vitro and in vivo tolerance tests confirmed the biocompatibility of the drug-loaded microspheres, as they did not elicit significant irritation in ocular tissues. Remarkable antibacterial effects were observed in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. Our developed PLGA microspheres show promise as an alternative therapeutic option for topical administration in managing keratitis, offering exceptional drug delivery capabilities, improved bioavailability, and potent antibacterial efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Zhihua Qin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China; (X.J.); (X.D.); (H.S.)
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Past, Present, and Future of Naturally Occurring Antimicrobials Related to Snake Venoms. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040744. [PMID: 36830531 PMCID: PMC9952678 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on proteins and peptides with antimicrobial activity because these biopolymers can be useful in the fight against infectious diseases and to overcome the critical problem of microbial resistance to antibiotics. In fact, snakes show the highest diversification among reptiles, surviving in various environments; their innate immunity is similar to mammals and the response of their plasma to bacteria and fungi has been explored mainly in ecological studies. Snake venoms are a rich source of components that have a variety of biological functions. Among them are proteins like lectins, metalloproteinases, serine proteinases, L-amino acid oxidases, phospholipases type A2, cysteine-rich secretory proteins, as well as many oligopeptides, such as waprins, cardiotoxins, cathelicidins, and β-defensins. In vitro, these biomolecules were shown to be active against bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses that are pathogenic to humans. Not only cathelicidins, but all other proteins and oligopeptides from snake venom have been proteolyzed to provide short antimicrobial peptides, or for use as templates for developing a variety of short unnatural sequences based on their structures. In addition to organizing and discussing an expressive amount of information, this review also describes new β-defensin sequences of Sistrurus miliarius that can lead to novel peptide-based antimicrobial agents, using a multidisciplinary approach that includes sequence phylogeny.
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Wang X, Wang Y, Tang M, Wang X, Xue W, Zhang X, Wang Y, Lee WH, Wang Y, Sun TY, Gao Y, Li LL. Controlled Cascade-Release and High Selective Sterilization by Core-Shell Nanogels for Microenvironment Regulation of Aerobic Vaginitis. Adv Healthc Mater 2023:e2202432. [PMID: 36745880 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202202432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Aerobic vaginitis (AV) is a gynecological disease associated with vaginal flora imbalance. The nonselective bactericidal nature of antibiotics and low customization rate of probiotic supplementation in existing treatments lead to AV recurrence. Here, a drug delivery strategy is proposed that works with the changing dynamics of the bacterial flora. In particular, a core-shell nanogel (CSNG) is designed to encapsulate prebiotic inulin and antimicrobial peptide Cath 30. The proposed strategy allows for the sequential release of both drugs using gelatinase produced by AV pathogenic bacteria, initially selectively killing pathogenic bacteria and subsequently promoting the proliferation of beneficial bacteria in the vagina. In a simulated infection environment in vitro, the outer layer of CSNGs, Cath 30 is rapidly degraded and potently killed the pathogenic bacterium Staphylococcus aureus at 2-6 h. CSNGs enhances proliferation of the beneficial bacterium Lactobacillus crispatus by more than 50% at 24 h. In a rat AV model, the drug delivery strategy precisely regulated the bacterial microenvironment while controlling the inflammatory response of the vaginal microenvironment. This new treatment approach, configured on demand and precisely controlled, offers a new strategy for the treatment of vaginal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Wang
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Proteins and Peptides Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shandong Universities, Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, P. R. China
| | - Yiting Wang
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Proteins and Peptides Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shandong Universities, Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, P. R. China
| | - Mengteng Tang
- School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyi Wang
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Proteins and Peptides Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shandong Universities, Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, P. R. China
| | - Wei Xue
- Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, P. R. China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, P. R. China.,CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), No. 11 Beiyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
| | - Yuxia Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, P. R. China
| | - Wen-Hui Lee
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, P. R. China
| | - Yingshuai Wang
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Proteins and Peptides Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shandong Universities, Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, P. R. China
| | - Tong-Yi Sun
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Proteins and Peptides Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shandong Universities, Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, P. R. China
| | - Yuanyuan Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, P. R. China
| | - Li-Li Li
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Proteins and Peptides Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shandong Universities, Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceuticals, School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, P. R. China.,CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), No. 11 Beiyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
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Novel Alligator Cathelicidin As-CATH8 Demonstrates Anti-Infective Activity against Clinically Relevant and Crocodylian Bacterial Pathogens. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11111603. [DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11111603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Host defense peptides (HDPs) represent an alternative way to address the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Crocodylians are interesting species for the study of these molecules because of their potent immune system, which confers high resistance to infection. Profile hidden Markov models were used to screen the genomes of four crocodylian species for encoded cathelicidins and eighteen novel sequences were identified. Synthetic cathelicidins showed broad spectrum antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity against several clinically important antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In particular, the As-CATH8 cathelicidin showed potent in vitro activity profiles similar to the last-resort antibiotics vancomycin and polymyxin B. In addition, As-CATH8 demonstrated rapid killing of planktonic and biofilm cells, which correlated with its ability to cause cytoplasmic membrane depolarization and permeabilization as well as binding to DNA. As-CATH8 displayed greater antibiofilm activity than the human cathelicidin LL-37 against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in a human organoid model of biofilm skin infection. Furthermore, As-CATH8 demonstrated strong antibacterial effects in a murine abscess model of high-density bacterial infections against clinical isolates of S. aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii, two of the most common bacterial species causing skin infections globally. Overall, this work expands the repertoire of cathelicidin peptides known in crocodylians, including one with considerable therapeutic promise for treating common skin infections.
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Carrera-Aubesart A, Defaus S, Pérez-Peinado C, Sandín D, Torrent M, Jiménez MÁ, Andreu D. Examining Topoisomers of a Snake-Venom-Derived Peptide for Improved Antimicrobial and Antitumoral Properties. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092110. [PMID: 36140211 PMCID: PMC9495681 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Ctn[15-34], the C-terminal section of crotalicidin (Ctn), a cathelicidin from a South American pit viper, is an antimicrobial and antitumoral peptide with remarkably longer stability in human serum than the parent Ctn. In this work, a set of topoisomers of both Ctn and Ctn[15-34], including the retro, enantio, and retroenantio versions, were synthesized and tested to investigate the structural requirements for activity. All topoisomers were as active as the cognate sequences against Gram-negative bacteria and tumor cells while slightly more toxic towards normal cells. More importantly, the enhanced serum stability of the D-amino-acid-containing versions suggests that such topoisomers must be preferentially considered as future antimicrobial and anticancer peptide leads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Carrera-Aubesart
- Proteomics and Protein Chemistry Unit, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sira Defaus
- Proteomics and Protein Chemistry Unit, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (S.D.); (D.A.)
| | - Clara Pérez-Peinado
- Proteomics and Protein Chemistry Unit, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Sandín
- Systems Biology of Infection Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Facultat de Biociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Marc Torrent
- Systems Biology of Infection Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Facultat de Biociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Maria Ángeles Jiménez
- Institute of Physical Chemistry “Rocasolano” (IQFR), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - David Andreu
- Proteomics and Protein Chemistry Unit, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (S.D.); (D.A.)
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He T, Xu L, Hu Y, Tang X, Qu R, Zhao X, Bai H, Li L, Chen W, Luo G, Fu G, Wang W, Xia X, Zhang J. Lysine-Tethered Stable Bicyclic Cationic Antimicrobial Peptide Combats Bacterial Infection in Vivo. J Med Chem 2022; 65:10523-10533. [PMID: 35920072 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have attracted great attention as next generation antibiotics for the treatment of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections. Poor proteolytic stability has however undermined clinical applications of AMPs. A novel peptide cyclization approach is described to enhance the in vivo antibacterial activity of AMPs. Bicyclic antimicrobial peptides were synthesized by cross-linking the ε-amino groups of three lysine residues with a 1,3,5-trimethylene benzene spacer. In a proof of principal study, four bicyclic peptides were synthesized from the cationic AMP OH-CM6. One bicyclic peptide retained strong antimicrobial activity and low toxicity but exhibited a prolonged half-life in serum. Antibacterial activity was consequently improved in vivo without renal or hepato-toxicity. The novel peptide cyclization approach represents an important tool for enhancing AMP proteolytic stability for improved treatment of bacterial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuchen Hu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomin Tang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Qu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuejun Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Bai
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Lixian Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanyi Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangli Luo
- Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Fu
- Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuefeng Xia
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinqiang Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China.,Chongqing University Industrial Technology Research Institute, Chongqing 401329, People's Republic of China
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11
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In pursuit of next-generation therapeutics: Antimicrobial peptides against superbugs, their sources, mechanism of action, nanotechnology-based delivery, and clinical applications. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 218:135-156. [PMID: 35868409 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.07.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) attracted attention as potential source of novel antimicrobials. Multi-drug resistant (MDR) infections have emerged as a global threat to public health in recent years. Furthermore, due to rapid emergence of new diseases, there is pressing need for development of efficient antimicrobials. AMPs are essential part of the innate immunity in most living organisms, acting as the primary line of defense against foreign invasions. AMPs kill a wide range of microorganisms by primarily targeting cell membranes or intracellular components through a variety of ways. AMPs can be broadly categorized based on their physico-chemical properties, structure, function, target and source of origin. The synthetic analogues produced either with suitable chemical modifications or with the use of suitable delivery systems are projected to eliminate the constraints of toxicity and poor stability commonly linked with natural AMPs. The concept of peptidomimetics is gaining ground around the world nowadays. Among the delivery systems, nanoparticles are emerging as potential delivery tools for AMPs, amplifying their utility against a variety of pathogens. In the present review, the broad classification of various AMPs, their mechanism of action (MOA), challenges associated with AMPs, current applications, and novel strategies to overcome the limitations have been discussed.
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12
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He C, Li J, Wu Z, Lu C, Huang Z, Luo N, Fan S, Shen J, Liu X, Zhao H. The semenogelin I-derived peptide SgI-52 in seminal plasma participates in sperm selection and clearance by macrophages. Peptides 2022; 153:170799. [PMID: 35427699 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2022.170799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Macrophages can phagocytose sperm, especially damaged spermatozoa, in the female genital tract. The semenogelin I-derived peptide SgI-52 in seminal plasma exhibits seminal plasma motility inhibitor (SPMI) activity and can inhibit sperm motility. This raises the question of the role played by SPMIs in macrophage-mediated phagocytosis of sperm. We speculated that SgI-52 promotes sperm clearance by macrophages. Therefore, we investigated the phagocytosis of sperm in different states using this peptide. METHODS SgI-52 was fluorescently labeled, and its binding site for sperm was observed. The ability of macrophages to phagocytose sperm was observed using fluorescence confocal microscopy. Spermatozoa from different sources were co-cultured with SgI-52 in BWW medium for 4 and 22 h to compare the differences in their phagocytosis by macrophages. Sperm motility, induced acrosome reaction, mitochondrial membrane potential, and ATP content were examined after incubation with SgI-52. RESULTS SgI-52 could bind to spermatozoa in different states, mainly to the tail, and then spread to the acrosome. This effect was more pronounced in demembranated spermatozoa. SgI-52 promoted phagocytosis of spermatozoa by macrophages, decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential, and increased the average ATP content of spermatozoa (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS We found for the first time that SgI-52 can bind to spermatozoa in different states and promote their phagocytosis by macrophages. Therefore, we speculate that SgI-52 is involved in the screening of sperm in the female reproductive tract and has potential value in improving assisted reproductive technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoyong He
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Jiankai Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Zhao Wu
- Department of Reproductive Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Chuncheng Lu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Zhuo Huang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Ning Luo
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Shipeng Fan
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Jihong Shen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China; Yunnan Province Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China.
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13
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Siddiqui R, Maciver SK, Khan NA. Gut microbiome-immune system interaction in reptiles. J Appl Microbiol 2022; 132:2558-2571. [PMID: 34984778 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Reptiles are ectothermic amniotes in a world dominated by endotherms. Reptiles originated more than 300 million years ago and they often dwell in polluted environments which may expose them to pathogenic micro-organisms, radiation and/or heavy metals. Reptiles also possess greater longevity and may live much longer than similar-sized land mammals, for example, turtles, tortoises, crocodiles and tuatara are long-lived reptiles living up to 100 years or more. Many recent studies have emphasized the pivotal role of the gut microbiome on its host; thus, we postulated that reptilian gut microbiome and/or its metabolites and the interplay with their robust immune system may contribute to their longevity and overall hardiness. Herein, we discuss the composition of the reptilian gut microbiome, immune system-gut microbiome cross-talk, antimicrobial peptides, reptilian resistance to infectious diseases and cancer, ageing, as well the current knowledge of the genome and epigenome of these remarkable species. Preliminary studies have demonstrated that microbial gut flora of reptiles such as crocodiles, tortoises, water monitor lizard and python exhibit remarkable anticancer and antibacterial properties, as well as comprise novel gut bacterial metabolites and antimicrobial peptides. The underlying mechanisms between the gut microbiome and the immune system may hold clues to developing new therapies overall for health, and possible extrapolation to exploit the ancient defence systems of reptiles for Homo sapiens benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sutherland K Maciver
- Centre for Discovery Brain Science, Edinburgh Medical School, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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14
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Hu Y, Li H, Qu R, He T, Tang X, Chen W, Li L, Bai H, Li C, Wang W, Fu G, Luo G, Xia X, Zhang J. Lysine Stapling Screening Provides Stable and Low Toxic Cationic Antimicrobial Peptides Combating Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria In Vitro and In Vivo. J Med Chem 2021; 65:579-591. [PMID: 34968054 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) are promising for treatment of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria-caused infections. However, clinical application of CAMPs has been hampered mostly due to their poor proteolytic stability and hemolytic toxicity. Recently, lysine-stapled CAMPs developed by us had been proved to increase peptide stability in vitro without induction of hemolysis. Herein, the applicability of the lysine stapling strategy was further explored by using five natural or artificial CAMPs as model peptides. Lysine stapling screening was implemented to provide 13 cyclic analogues in total. Biological screening of these cyclic analogues showed that CAMPs with a better amphiphilic structure were inclined to exhibit improved antimicrobial activity, protease stability, and biocompatibility after lysine-stapling. One of the stapled analogues of BF15-a1 was found to have extended half-life in plasma, enhanced antimicrobial activity against clinically isolated MDR ESKAPE pathogens, and remained highly effective in combating MRSA infection in a mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Hu
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Li
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Qu
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Tong He
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomin Tang
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanyi Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Lixian Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Bai
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Fu
- Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangli Luo
- Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuefeng Xia
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinqiang Zhang
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, People's Republic of China
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15
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Bin Hafeez A, Jiang X, Bergen PJ, Zhu Y. Antimicrobial Peptides: An Update on Classifications and Databases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11691. [PMID: 34769122 PMCID: PMC8583803 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are distributed across all kingdoms of life and are an indispensable component of host defenses. They consist of predominantly short cationic peptides with a wide variety of structures and targets. Given the ever-emerging resistance of various pathogens to existing antimicrobial therapies, AMPs have recently attracted extensive interest as potential therapeutic agents. As the discovery of new AMPs has increased, many databases specializing in AMPs have been developed to collect both fundamental and pharmacological information. In this review, we summarize the sources, structures, modes of action, and classifications of AMPs. Additionally, we examine current AMP databases, compare valuable computational tools used to predict antimicrobial activity and mechanisms of action, and highlight new machine learning approaches that can be employed to improve AMP activity to combat global antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmer Bin Hafeez
- Centre of Biotechnology and Microbiology, University of Peshawar, Peshawar 25120, Pakistan;
| | - Xukai Jiang
- Infection and Immunity Program, Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; (X.J.); (P.J.B.)
- National Glycoengineering Research Center, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Phillip J. Bergen
- Infection and Immunity Program, Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; (X.J.); (P.J.B.)
| | - Yan Zhu
- Infection and Immunity Program, Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; (X.J.); (P.J.B.)
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16
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Creane SE, Carlile SR, Downey D, Weldon S, Dalton JP, Taggart CC. The Impact of Lung Proteases on Snake-Derived Antimicrobial Peptides. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11081106. [PMID: 34439773 PMCID: PMC8394243 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Respiratory infections are a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality and are of significant concern for individuals with chronic inflammatory lung diseases. There is an urgent need for novel antimicrobials. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are naturally occurring innate immune response peptides with therapeutic potential. However, therapeutic development has been hindered by issues with stability and cytotoxicity. Availing of direct drug delivery to the affected site, for example the lung, can reduce unwanted systemic side effects and lower the required dose. As cystic fibrosis (CF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) lungs typically exhibit elevated protease levels, the aim of this study was to assess their impact on snake-derived AMPs. Peptide cleavage was determined using SDS-PAGE and antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities of neutrophil elastase (NE)-incubated peptides were assessed using a radial diffusion assay (RDA) and an in vitro LPS-induced inflammation model, respectively. Although the snake-derived AMPs were found to be susceptible to cleavage by lung proteases including NE, several retained their function following NE-incubation. This facilitated the design of novel truncated derivatives that retained functionality following NE incubation. Snake-derived AMPs are tractable candidate treatments for use in environments that feature elevated NE levels, such as the CF airways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannice E. Creane
- Airway Innate Immunity Research (AiiR) Group, Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (S.E.C.); (S.R.C.); (S.W.)
| | - Simon R. Carlile
- Airway Innate Immunity Research (AiiR) Group, Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (S.E.C.); (S.R.C.); (S.W.)
| | - Damian Downey
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK;
| | - Sinéad Weldon
- Airway Innate Immunity Research (AiiR) Group, Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (S.E.C.); (S.R.C.); (S.W.)
| | - John P. Dalton
- Zoology Department, School of Natural Sciences, Centre for One Health, Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Clifford C. Taggart
- Airway Innate Immunity Research (AiiR) Group, Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (S.E.C.); (S.R.C.); (S.W.)
- Correspondence:
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17
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Dematei A, Nunes JB, Moreira DC, Jesus JA, Laurenti MD, Mengarda ACA, Vieira MS, do Amaral CP, Domingues MM, de Moraes J, Passero LFD, Brand G, Bessa LJ, Wimmer R, Kuckelhaus SAS, Tomás AM, Santos NC, Plácido A, Eaton P, Leite JRSA. Mechanistic Insights into the Leishmanicidal and Bactericidal Activities of Batroxicidin, a Cathelicidin-Related Peptide from a South American Viper ( Bothrops atrox). JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2021; 84:1787-1798. [PMID: 34077221 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.1c00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Snake venoms are important sources of bioactive molecules, including those with antiparasitic activity. Cathelicidins form a class of such molecules, which are produced by a variety of organisms. Batroxicidin (BatxC) is a cathelicidin found in the venom of the common lancehead (Bothrops atrox). In the present work, BatxC and two synthetic analogues, BatxC(C-2.15Phe) and BatxC(C-2.14Phe)des-Phe1, were assessed for their microbicidal activity. All three peptides showed a broad-spectrum activity on Gram-positive and -negative bacteria, as well as promastigote and amastigote forms of Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis. Circular dichroism (CD) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data indicated that the three peptides changed their structure upon interaction with membranes. Biomimetic membrane model studies demonstrated that the peptides exert a permeabilization effect in prokaryotic membranes, leading to cell morphology distortion, which was confirmed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The molecules considered in this work exhibited bactericidal and leishmanicidal activity at low concentrations, with the AFM data suggesting membrane pore formation as their mechanism of action. These peptides stand as valuable prototype drugs to be further investigated and eventually used to treat bacterial and protozoal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anderson Dematei
- Center for Tropical Medicine, NMT, Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
- Research Center in Morphology and Applied Immunology, NuPMIA, Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - João B Nunes
- Research Center in Morphology and Applied Immunology, NuPMIA, Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
- Laboratory for the Synthesis and Analysis of Biomolecules, LSAB, Institute of Chemistry, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Daniel C Moreira
- Research Center in Morphology and Applied Immunology, NuPMIA, Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Jéssica A Jesus
- Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Márcia D Laurenti
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Pathology of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-060, Brazil
| | - Ana C A Mengarda
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, NPDN, University of Guarulhos, Guarulhos 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Maria Silva Vieira
- I3S, Institute of Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Porto 4099-002, Portugal
- IBMC, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Porto, Porto 4099-002, Portugal
| | - Constança Pais do Amaral
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Marco M Domingues
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases, NPDN, University of Guarulhos, Guarulhos 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Luiz F D Passero
- Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Pathology of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-060, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Brand
- Laboratory for the Synthesis and Analysis of Biomolecules, LSAB, Institute of Chemistry, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Lucinda J Bessa
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto, Porto 4099-002, Portugal
| | - Reinhard Wimmer
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Aalborg 9220, Denmark
| | - Selma A S Kuckelhaus
- Research Center in Morphology and Applied Immunology, NuPMIA, Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Ana M Tomás
- I3S, Institute of Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Porto 4099-002, Portugal
- IBMC, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Porto, Porto 4099-002, Portugal
- ICBAS, Abel Salazar Institute for Biomedical Research, University of Porto, Porto 4099-002, Portugal
| | - Nuno C Santos
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Alexandra Plácido
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto, Porto 4099-002, Portugal
| | - Peter Eaton
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto, Porto 4099-002, Portugal
- The Bridge, Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Chemistry, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7TS, U.K
| | - José Roberto S A Leite
- Center for Tropical Medicine, NMT, Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
- Research Center in Morphology and Applied Immunology, NuPMIA, Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
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18
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Wang T, Zou C, Wen N, Liu X, Meng Z, Feng S, Zheng Z, Meng Q, Wang C. The effect of structural modification of antimicrobial peptides on their antimicrobial activity, hemolytic activity, and plasma stability. J Pept Sci 2021; 27:e3306. [PMID: 33554385 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In this article, a series of modifications were made on an antimicrobial peptide F2,5,12 W, including altering the amino acid sequence, introducing cysteine and other typical amino acids, developing peptide dimers via disulfide bonds, and conjugating with mPEG, in order to enhance the antimicrobial activity, plasma stability, and reduce the hemolytic activity of peptides. The results showed that mPEG conjugation could significantly improve the plasma stability and reduce the hemolytic activity of peptides, while the antimicrobial activity decreased meanwhile. However, altering the sequence of the peptide without changing its amino acid composition had little impact on its antimicrobial activity and plasma stability. The introduction of cysteine enhanced the plasma stability of peptides conspicuously, but at the same time, the increased hydrophobicity of peptides increased their hemolysis. The antimicrobial mechanism and cytotoxicity of the peptides with relatively high antimicrobial activity were also studied. In general, this study provided some ideas for the rational design and structure optimization of antimicrobial peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taoran Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Cunbin Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Na Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Xingdong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Siliang Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Zhibing Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Qingbin Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Natural Resources and Functional Molecules of the Changbai Mountain, Affiliated Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China
| | - Chenhong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
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19
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Zhong L, Liu J, Teng S, Xie Z. Identification of a Novel Cathelicidin from the Deinagkistrodon acutus Genome with Antibacterial Activity by Multiple Mechanisms. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12120771. [PMID: 33291852 PMCID: PMC7762006 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12120771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The abuse of antibiotics and the consequent increase of drug-resistant bacteria constitute a serious threat to human health, and new antibiotics are urgently needed. Research shows that antimicrobial peptides produced by natural organisms are potential substitutes for antibiotics. Based on Deinagkistrodonacutus (known as five-pacer viper) genome bioinformatics analysis, we discovered a new cathelicidin antibacterial peptide which was called FP-CATH. Circular dichromatic analysis showed a typical helical structure. FP-CATH showed broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. It has antibacterial activity to Gram-negative bacteria and Gram-positive bacteria including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The results of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that FP-CATH could cause the change of bacterial cell integrity, having a destructive effect on Gram-negative bacteria and inducing Gram-positive bacterial surface formation of vesicular structure. FP-CATH could bind to LPS and showed strong binding ability to bacterial DNA. In vivo, FP-CATH can improve the survival rate of nematodes in bacterial invasion experiments, and has a certain protective effect on nematodes. To sum up, FP-CATH is likely to play a role in multiple mechanisms of antibacterial action by impacting bacterial cell integrity and binding to bacterial biomolecules. It is hoped that the study of FP-CATH antibacterial mechanisms will prove useful for development of novel antibiotics.
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20
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Wang Y, Wang M, Shan A, Feng X. Avian host defense cathelicidins: structure, expression, biological functions, and potential therapeutic applications. Poult Sci 2020; 99:6434-6445. [PMID: 33248558 PMCID: PMC7704953 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Host defense peptides (HDP) are multifunctional effectors of the innate immune system, which has antimicrobial and pleiotropic immunomodulatory functions. Although there is a very sophisticated superposition of adaptive immune systems in vertebrates, this system is still essential. As an important family of HDP, cathelicidins are also known for their broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses. It has been found in humans and other species, including cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, rabbits, and some kind of fish. Among them, cathelicidins in birds were described for the first time in 2005. This review focuses on the structure, biological activities, expression, and regulation of avian cathelicidin, especially main effects of host defense cathelicidin on potential therapeutic applications. According to the results obtained both in vitro and in vivo, good perspectives have been opened for cathelicidin. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to better characterize the mechanisms of action underlying the beneficial effects of cathelicidin as novel therapeutic alternatives to antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjie Wang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Wang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Anshan Shan
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingjun Feng
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, People's Republic of China.
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Proteomic Investigations of Two Pakistani Naja Snake Venoms Species Unravel the Venom Complexity, Posttranslational Modifications, and Presence of Extracellular Vesicles. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12110669. [PMID: 33105837 PMCID: PMC7690644 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12110669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Latest advancement of omics technologies allows in-depth characterization of venom compositions. In the present work we present a proteomic study of two snake venoms of the genus Naja i.e., Naja naja (black cobra) and Naja oxiana (brown cobra) of Pakistani origin. The present study has shown that these snake venoms consist of a highly diversified proteome. Furthermore, the data also revealed variation among closely related species. High throughput mass spectrometric analysis of the venom proteome allowed to identify for the N. naja venom 34 protein families and for the N. oxiana 24 protein families. The comparative evaluation of the two venoms showed that N. naja consists of a more complex venom proteome than N. oxiana venom. Analysis also showed N-terminal acetylation (N-ace) of a few proteins in both venoms. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study revealing this posttranslational modification in snake venom. N-ace can shed light on the mechanism of regulation of venom proteins inside the venom gland. Furthermore, our data showed the presence of other body proteins, e.g., ankyrin repeats, leucine repeats, zinc finger, cobra serum albumin, transferrin, insulin, deoxyribonuclease-2-alpha, and other regulatory proteins in these venoms. Interestingly, our data identified Ras-GTpase type of proteins, which indicate the presence of extracellular vesicles in the venom. The data can support the production of distinct and specific anti-venoms and also allow a better understanding of the envenomation and mechanism of distribution of toxins. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD018726.
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Neshani A, Sedighian H, Mirhosseini SA, Ghazvini K, Zare H, Jahangiri A. Antimicrobial peptides as a promising treatment option against Acinetobacter baumannii infections. Microb Pathog 2020; 146:104238. [PMID: 32387392 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2020.104238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the increasing rate of antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter, the World Health Organization introduced the carbapenem-resistant isolates in the priority pathogens list for which innovative new treatments are urgently needed. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are one of the antimicrobial agents with high potential to produce new anti-Acinetobacter drugs. This review aims to summarize recent advances and compare AMPs with anti-Acinetobacter baumannii activity. METHODS Active AMPs against Acinetobacter were considered, and essential features, including structure, mechanism of action, anti-A. baumannii potent, and other prominent characteristics, were investigated and compared to each other. In this regard, the Google Scholar search engine and databases of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used. RESULTS Forty-six anti-Acinetobacter peptides were identified and classified into ten groups: Cathelicidins, Defensins, Frog AMPs, Melittin, Cecropins, Mastoparan, Histatins, Dermcidins, Tachyplesins, and computationally designed AMPs. According to the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) reports, six peptides of Melittin, Histatin-8, Omega76, AM-CATH36, Hymenochirin, and Mastoparan have the highest anti-A. baumannii power against sensitive and antibiotic-resistant isolates. All anti-Acinetobacter peptides except Dermcidin have a net positive charge. Most of these peptides have alpha-helical structure; however, β-sheet and other structures have been observed among them. The mechanism of action of these antimicrobial agents is divided into two categories of membrane-based and intracellular target-based attack. CONCLUSION Evidence from this review indicates that AMPs would be likely among the main anti-A. baumannii drugs in the post-antibiotic era. Also, the application of computer science to increase anti-A. baumannii activity and reduce toxicity could be helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Neshani
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamid Sedighian
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Mirhosseini
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kiarash Ghazvini
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hosna Zare
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Jahangiri
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Hitchhiking with Nature: Snake Venom Peptides to Fight Cancer and Superbugs. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12040255. [PMID: 32326531 PMCID: PMC7232197 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12040255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract For decades, natural products in general and snake venoms (SV) in particular have been a rich source of bioactive compounds for drug discovery, and they remain a promising substrate for therapeutic development. Currently, a handful of SV-based drugs for diagnosis and treatment of various cardiovascular disorders and blood abnormalities are on the market. Likewise, far more SV compounds and their mimetics are under investigation today for diverse therapeutic applications, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria and cancer. In this review, we analyze the state of the art regarding SV-derived compounds with therapeutic potential, focusing on the development of antimicrobial and anticancer drugs. Specifically, information about SV peptides experimentally validated or predicted to act as antimicrobial and anticancer peptides (AMPs and ACPs, respectively) has been collected and analyzed. Their principal activities both in vitro and in vivo, structures, mechanisms of action, and attempts at sequence optimization are discussed in order to highlight their potential as drug leads. Key Contribution This review describes the state of the art in snake venom-derived peptides and their therapeutic applications. This work reinforces the potential of snake venom components as therapeutic agents, particularly in the quest for new antimicrobial and anticancer drugs.
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Li H, Hu Y, Pu Q, He T, Zhang Q, Wu W, Xia X, Zhang J. Novel Stapling by Lysine Tethering Provides Stable and Low Hemolytic Cationic Antimicrobial Peptides. J Med Chem 2020; 63:4081-4089. [PMID: 32216308 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b02025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) are potent therapeutics for drug-resistant bacterial infections. However, the clinical application of CAMPs is hampered by its poor proteolytic stability and hemolytic activity toward eukaryotic cells. Great efforts have been made to design and generate derivatives of CAMPs with improved pharmacological properties. Here, we report a novel stapling protocol, which tethers two ε-amino groups of the lysine residue by the N-alkylation reaction on the hydrophilic face of amphiphilic antimicrobial peptides. A series of lysine-tethered stapled CAMPs were synthesized, employing the antimicrobial peptide OH-CM6 as a model. Biological screening of the stapled CAMPs provided an analogue with strong antimicrobial activity, high proteolytic stability, and low hemolytic activity. This novel stapling approach offers an important chemical tool for developing CAMP-based antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Li
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, P. R. China
| | - Yuchen Hu
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, P. R. China
| | - Qi Pu
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, P. R. China
| | - Tong He
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, P. R. China
| | - Qianyu Zhang
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, P. R. China
| | - Wen Wu
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, P. R. China
| | - Xuefeng Xia
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, P. R. China
| | - Jinqiang Zhang
- Innovative Drug Research Centre (IDRC), Chongqing Key Laboratory of Natural Product Synthesis and Drug Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, P. R. China
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Falcao CB, Radis-Baptista G. Crotamine and crotalicidin, membrane active peptides from Crotalus durissus terrificus rattlesnake venom, and their structurally-minimized fragments for applications in medicine and biotechnology. Peptides 2020; 126:170234. [PMID: 31857106 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2019.170234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A global public health crisis has emerged with the extensive dissemination of multidrug-resistant microorganisms. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) from plants and animals have represented promising tools to counteract those resistant pathogens due to their multiple pharmacological properties such as antimicrobial, anticancer, immunomodulatory and cell-penetrating activities. In this review, we will focus on crotamine and crotalicidin, which are two interesting examples of membrane active peptides derived from the South America rattlesnake Crotalus durrisus terrificus venom. Their full-sequences and structurally-minimized fragments have potential applications, as anti-infective and anti-proliferative agents and diagnostics in medicine and in pharmaceutical biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Borges Falcao
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Brazil; Peter Pan Association to Fight Childhood Cancer, Fortaleza, CE, 60410-770, Brazil.
| | - Gandhi Radis-Baptista
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate program in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Av da Abolição 3207, Fortaleza, CE, 60165-081, Brazil.
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26
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de Barros E, Gonçalves RM, Cardoso MH, Santos NC, Franco OL, Cândido ES. Snake Venom Cathelicidins as Natural Antimicrobial Peptides. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:1415. [PMID: 31849667 PMCID: PMC6895205 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioactive small molecules isolated from animals, plants, fungi and bacteria, including natural antimicrobial peptides, have shown great therapeutic potential worldwide. Among these peptides, snake venom cathelicidins are being widely exploited, because the variation in the composition of the venom reflects a range of biological activities that may be of biotechnological interest. Cathelicidins are short, cationic, and amphipathic molecules. They play an important role in host defense against microbial infections. We are currently facing a strong limitation on pharmacological interventions for infection control, which has become increasingly complex due to the lack of effective therapeutic options. In this review, we will focus on natural snake venom cathelicidins as promising candidates for the development of new antibacterial agents to fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria. We will highlight their antibacterial and antibiofilm activities, mechanism of action, and modulation of the innate immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizângela de Barros
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
- S-Inova Biotech, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
| | - Regina M. Gonçalves
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
- S-Inova Biotech, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
| | - Marlon H. Cardoso
- S-Inova Biotech, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Nuno C. Santos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
- S-Inova Biotech, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Octávio L. Franco
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
- S-Inova Biotech, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Elizabete S. Cândido
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
- S-Inova Biotech, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
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Reichart TM, Uzarski JR, Mello CM. Differential presentation of a single antimicrobial peptide is sufficient to identify LPS from distinct bacterial samples. Analyst 2019; 144:7242-7249. [PMID: 31687669 DOI: 10.1039/c9an01781j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Rapid detection and identification of bacteria is important for human health, biodefense, and food safety. Small arrays of different antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) enable the identification of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) samples from a variety of bacterial species and strains. A model system for examining how peptide presentation affects LPS detection is the sheep myeloid antimicrobial peptide (SMAP-29), which contains a helix-turn-helix motif. Varying the cysteine attachment site on SMAP-29 controls the three-dimensional presentation of the peptide on the surface, altering the ability of the peptide to discriminate between LPS samples. A small array of only SMAP-29 variants-and no other peptides-is capable of discriminating among LPS samples from multiple bacterial species, as well as between different strains within the same species, with high accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M Reichart
- Office of the Chief Scientist, Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA.
| | - Joshua R Uzarski
- CB Innovative Material and Ensemble Development Team, Combat Capabilities Development Command, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Charlene M Mello
- Office of the Chief Scientist, Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA.
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Abstract
Abstract
An increasing problem in the field of health protection is the emergence of drug-resistant and multi-drug-resistant bacterial strains. They cause a number of infections, including hospital infections, which currently available antibiotics are unable to fight. Therefore, many studies are devoted to the search for new therapeutic agents with bactericidal and bacteriostatic properties. One of the latest concepts is to search for this type of substances among toxins produced by venomous animals. In this approach, however, special attention is paid to snake venom because it contains molecules with antibacterial properties. Thorough investigations have shown that the phospholipases A2 (PLA2) and l-amino acids oxidases (LAAO), as well as fragments of these enzymes, are mainly responsible for the bactericidal properties of snake venoms. Some preliminary research studies also suggest that fragments of three-finger toxins (3FTx) are bactericidal. It has also been proven that some snakes produce antibacterial peptides (AMP) homologous to human defensins and cathelicidins. The presence of these proteins and peptides means that snake venoms continue to be an interesting material for researchers and can be perceived as a promising source of antibacterial agents.
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Qiao X, Yang H, Gao J, Zhang F, Chu P, Yang Y, Zhang M, Wang Y, Yu H. Diversity, immunoregulatory action and structure-activity relationship of green sea turtle cathelicidins. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 98:189-204. [PMID: 31121185 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 05/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Cathelicidins are a family of gene-encoded immune effectors in vertebrate innate immunity. Here, we reported the diversity and biological activity of cathelicidins in green sea turtle, a marine reptile species known for long lifespan and disease resistance. Four novel cathelicidins (Cm-CATH1-4) were identified from green sea turtle. All of them, especially Cm-CATH2, exhibited potent, broad-spectrum and rapid bactericidal and anti-biofilm activities by inducing the disruption of cell membrane integrity. Additionally, Cm-CATH2 effectively induced the macrophages/monocytes and neutrophils trafficking to the infection site, and inhibited the LPS-induced production of inflammatory cytokines, by blocking TLR4/MD2 complex and the downstream signaling pathway activation. In mouse peritonitis and pneumonia models, Cm-CATH2 exhibited evident protection against drug-resistant bacterial infections. Taken together, the diverse structures and functions of Cm-CATHs indicated their pleiotropic role in innate immunity of green sea turtle, and the potent antimicrobial, anti-biofilm and immunomodulatory properties make them ideal candidates for the development of novel anti-infective drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Qiao
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116024, China
| | - Huaixin Yang
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116024, China
| | - Jiuxiang Gao
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116024, China
| | - Fen Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Peng Chu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116024, China
| | - Yongliang Yang
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116024, China
| | - Minghui Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Yipeng Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China.
| | - Haining Yu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116024, China.
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Genomic Identification and Expression Analysis of the Cathelicidin Gene Family of the Forest Musk Deer. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9080481. [PMID: 31344924 PMCID: PMC6719980 DOI: 10.3390/ani9080481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cathelicidins are a group of host defense peptides in vertebrates with both antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities. In the present study, we identified the entire repertoire of the cathelicidin gene family from the forest musk deer genome. Sequence comparison, phylogenetic topology, and gene and genomic organizations collectively suggest that all cathelicidin genes have already been fixed in the genome of forest musk deer before the split of moschidae and bovidae, while independent pseudogenization events have occurred after species divergence. In addition, real-time PCR analysis suggested that all functional cathelicidins play important roles in the immune system. The results of this study will be helpful for further evolutionary and functional studies. Abstract The forest musk deer (Moschus berezovskii) is a small-sized artiodactyl species famous for the musk secreted by adult males. In the captive population, this species is under the threat of infection diseases, which greatly limits the increase of individual numbers. In the present study, we computationally analyzed the repertoire of the cathelicidin (CATHL) family from the genome of forest musk deer and investigated their expression pattern by real-time PCR. Our results showed that the entire genome of forest musk deer encodes eight cathelicidins, including six functional genes and two pseudogenes. Phylogenetic analyses further revealed that all forest musk deer cathelicidin members have emerged before the split of the forest musk deer and cattle and that forest musk deer CATHL3L2 and CATHL9 are orthologous with two cattle pseudogenes. In addition, the gene expression results showed that the six functional genes are not only abundantly expressed in the spleen and lung, but are also differently expressed in response to abscesses, which suggests that forest musk deer cathelicidins may be involved in infections. Taken together, identification and characterization of the forest musk deer cathelicidins provide fundamental data for further investigating their evolutionary process and biological functions.
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Shi N, Cai S, Gao J, Qiao X, Yang H, Wang Y, Yu H. Roles of polymorphic cathelicidins in innate immunity of soft-shell turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 92:179-192. [PMID: 30452933 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2018.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Cathelicidins are a class of gene-encoded immune effectors in vertebrate innate immune system. Though being extensively studied in mammals, little is known about the roles of cathelicidins in turtles, the water-dwelling vertebrates in the order Testudines. In the present study, six novel cathelicidins (Ps-CATH1-6) with different tissue and inducible expression patterns were characterized from the turtle of economic importance, Chinese soft-shell turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis). Although the structures of Ps-CATH1-6 precursors were identical with most of the other known cathelicidins, the mature peptides of Ps-CATH1-6 showed low sequence similarity with the other cathelicidins. Functional studies indicated that some of them either directly kill pathogens via inducing the permeabilization in bacterial membrane (Ps-CATH4, 6), or boost infection-resolving immunity by selectively inhibiting pro-inflammatory responses (Ps-CATH2, 4, 6) through MAPKs and NF-κB pathways. Ps-CATH2, 4, and 6, which assume the hallmark amphipathic α-helical conformations as most of the other host defense peptides, exhibit evident in vivo protection by significantly reducing the bacterial loads in bacterial infected turtles. Collectively, the discovery of novel Ps-CATHs with pleiotropic structures and functions helps elucidating the roles of cathelicidins in the Chinese softshell turtle innate immunity, and better understanding the survival strategy of Chinese softshell turtle in harsh habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nannan Shi
- School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116024, China
| | - Shasha Cai
- School of Medical Engineering, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, 272000, China
| | - Jiuxiang Gao
- School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116024, China
| | - Xue Qiao
- School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116024, China
| | - Huaixin Yang
- School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116024, China
| | - Yipeng Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China.
| | - Haining Yu
- School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, 116024, China.
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Wang A, Zhang F, Guo Z, Chen Y, Zhang M, Yu H, Wang Y. Characterization of a Cathelicidin from the Colubrinae Snake, Sinonatrix annularis. Zoolog Sci 2019; 36:68-76. [DOI: 10.2108/zs180064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aili Wang
- Weifang University of Science and Technology, Shandong Peninsula Engineering Research Center of Comp
| | - Fen Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzho
| | - Zhilai Guo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzho
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzho
| | - Minghui Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzho
| | - Haining Yu
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning 116023
| | - Yipeng Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzho
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Sun T, Zhan B, Zhang W, Qin D, Xia G, Zhang H, Peng M, Li SA, Zhang Y, Gao Y, Lee WH. Carboxymethyl chitosan nanoparticles loaded with bioactive peptide OH-CATH30 benefit nonscar wound healing. Int J Nanomedicine 2018; 13:5771-5786. [PMID: 30310280 PMCID: PMC6165789 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s156206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nonscar wound healing is a desirable treatment for cutaneous wounds worldwide. Peptide OH-CATH30 (OH30) from king cobra can selectively regulate the innate immunity and create an anti-inflammatory micro-environment which might benefit nonscar wound healing. Purpose To overcome the enzymatic digestion and control release of OH30, OH30 encapsulated in carboxymethyl chitosan nanoparticles (CMCS-OH30 NP) were prepared and their effects on wound healing were evaluated. Methods CMCS-OH30 NP were prepared by mild ionic gelation method and properties of the prepared CMCS-OH30 NP were determined by dynamic light scattering. Encapsulation efficiency, stability and release profile of OH30 from prepared CMCS-OH30 NP were determined by HPLC. Cytotoxicity, cell migration and cellular uptake of CMCS-OH30 NP were determined by conventional methods. The effects of prepared CMCS-OH30 NP on the wound healing was investigated by full-thickness excision animal models. Results The release of encapsulated OH30 from prepared CMCS-OH30 NP was maintained for at least 24 h in a controlled manner. CMCSOH30 NP enhanced the cell migration but had no effects on the metabolism and proliferation of keratinocytes. In the full-thickness excision animal models, the CMCS-OH30 NP treatment significantly accelerated the wound healing compared with CMCS or OH30 administration alone. Histopathological examination suggested that CMCS-OH30 NP promoted wound healing by enhancing the granulation tissue formation through the re-epithelialized and neovascularized composition. CMCS-OH30 NP induced a steady anti-inflammatory cytokine IL10 expression but downregulated the expressions of several pro-inflammatory cytokines. Conclusion The prepared biodegradable drug delivery system accelerates the healing and shows better prognosis because of the combined effects of OH30 released from the nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongyi Sun
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Bioscience and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China,
| | - Bo Zhan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China, .,Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptide of Yunnan Province/Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, Yunnan, China,
| | - Weifen Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China,
| | - Di Qin
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Bioscience and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China,
| | - Guixue Xia
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China,
| | - Huijie Zhang
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Bioscience and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China, .,Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptide of Yunnan Province/Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, Yunnan, China,
| | - Meiyu Peng
- Department of Immunology, School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China
| | - Sheng-An Li
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptide of Yunnan Province/Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, Yunnan, China,
| | - Yun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptide of Yunnan Province/Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, Yunnan, China,
| | - Yuanyuan Gao
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China,
| | - Wen-Hui Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Bioscience and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong, China, .,Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptide of Yunnan Province/Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, Yunnan, China,
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A frog cathelicidin peptide effectively promotes cutaneous wound healing in mice. Biochem J 2018; 475:2785-2799. [PMID: 30045878 PMCID: PMC6134359 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20180286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Although cathelicidins in mammals have been well characterized, little is known about the function of cathelicidin in amphibians. In the present study, a novel 24-residue peptide (cathelicidin-NV, ARGKKECKDDRCRLLMKRGSFSYV) belonging to the cathelicidin family was identified from the skin of the plateau frog Nanorana ventripunctata. Cathelicidin-NV showed strong wound healing-promoting activity in a murine model with a full-thickness dermal wound. It directly enhanced the proliferation of keratinocyte cells, resulting in accelerated re-epithelialization of the wound site. Cathelicidin-NV also promoted the proliferation of fibroblasts, the differentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts and collagen production in fibroblasts, which are implicated in wound contraction and repair processes. Furthermore, cathelicidin-NV promoted the release of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, tumor necrosis factor-α, vascular endothelial growth factor and transforming growth factor-β1 in vivo and in vitro, which are essential in the wound-healing processes such as migration, proliferation and differentiation. The MAPK (ERK, JNK and p38) signaling pathways were involved in the wound healing-promoting effect. Additionally, unlike other cathelicidins, cathelicidin-NV did not have any direct effect on microbes and showed no cytotoxicity and hemolytic activity toward mammalian cells at concentrations up to 200 µg/ml. This current study may facilitate the understanding of the cellular and molecular events that underlie quick wound healing in N. ventripunctata. In addition, the combination of these properties makes cathelicidin-NV an excellent candidate for skin wound therapeutics.
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Qi RH, Chen Y, Guo ZL, Zhang F, Fang Z, Huang K, Yu HN, Wang YP. Identification and characterization of two novel cathelicidins from the frog Odorrana livida. Zool Res 2018; 40:94-101. [PMID: 30127328 PMCID: PMC6378563 DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2018.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a group of gene-encoded small peptides that play pivotal roles in the host immune system of multicellular organisms. Cathelicidins are an important family of AMPs that exclusively exist in vertebrates. Many cathelicidins have been identified from mammals, birds, reptiles and fish. To date, however, cathelicidins from amphibians are poorly understood. In the present study, two novel cathelicidins (OL-CATH1 and 2) were identified and studied from the odorous frog Odorrana livida. Firstly, the cDNAs encoding the OL-CATHs (780 and 735 bp in length, respectively) were successfully cloned from a lung cDNA library constructed for the frog. Multi-sequence alignment was carried out to analyze differences between the precursors of the OL-CATHs and other representative cathelicidins. Mature peptide sequences of OL-CATH1 and 2 were predicted (33 amino acid residues) and their secondary structures were determined (OL-CATH1 showed a random-coil conformation and OL-CATH2 demonstrated a-helical conformation). Furthermore, OL-CATH1 and 2 were chemically synthesized and their in vitro functions were determined. Antimicrobial and bacterial killing kinetic analyses indicated that OL-CATH2 demonstrated relatively moderate and rapid antimicrobial potency and exhibited strong anti-inflammatory activity. At very low concentrations (10 μg/mL), OL-CATH2 significantly inhibited the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced transcription and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-a, IL-1b and IL-6 in mouse peritoneal macrophages. In contrast, OL-CATH1 did not exhibit any detectable antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory activities. Overall, identification of these OL-CATHs from O. livida enriches our understanding of the functions of cathelicidins in the amphibian immune system. The potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities of OL-CATH2 highlight its potential as a novel candidate in anti-infective drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruo-Han Qi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Yan Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Zhi-Lai Guo
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Fen Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Zheng Fang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Kai Huang
- School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Hai-Ning Yu
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian Liaoning 116023, China; E-mail:
| | - Yi-Peng Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou Jiangsu 215123, China; E-mail:
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Zhao F, Lan XQ, Du Y, Chen PY, Zhao J, Zhao F, Lee WH, Zhang Y. King cobra peptide OH-CATH30 as a potential candidate drug through clinic drug-resistant isolates. Zool Res 2018. [PMID: 29515090 PMCID: PMC5885386 DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2018.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cationic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are considered as important candidate therapeutic agents, which exert potent microbicidal properties against bacteria, fungi and some viruses. Based on our previous findings king cobra cathelicidin (OH-CATH) is a 34-amino acid peptide that exerts strong antibacterial and weak hemolytic activity. The aim of this research is to evaluate the efficacy of both OH-CATH30 and its analog D-OH-CATH30 against clinical isolates comparing with routinely utilized antibiotics in vitro. In this study, 584 clinical isolates were tested (spanning 2013–2016) and the efficacy of the candidate peptides and antibiotics were determined by a broth microdilution method according to the CLSI guidelines. Among the 584 clinical isolates, 85% were susceptible to OH-CATH30 and its analogs. Both L- and D-OH-CATH30 showed higher efficacy against (toward) Gram-positive bacteria and stronger antibacterial activity against nearly all Gram-negative bacteria tested compare with antibiotics. The highest bactericidal activity was detected against Acinetobacter spp., including multi-drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MRAB) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The overall efficacy of OH-CATH30 and its analogs was higher than that of the 9 routinely used antibiotics. OH-CATH30 is a promising candidate drug for the treatment of a wide variety of bacterial infections which are resistant to many routinely used antimicrobial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Subtropical Medicinal Edible Resources Development and Utilization in Yunnan Province, Department of Biology and Chemistry, Puer University, Puer Yunnan 665000, China. .,Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province/Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China. .,Institute of Comparative Study of Traditional Materia Medica, Institute of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xin-Qiang Lan
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province/Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China.
| | - Yan Du
- Department of Clinical Laboratories, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Pei-Yi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Subtropical Medicinal Edible Resources Development and Utilization in Yunnan Province, Department of Biology and Chemistry, Puer University, Puer Yunnan 665000, China.
| | - Jiao Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Subtropical Medicinal Edible Resources Development and Utilization in Yunnan Province, Department of Biology and Chemistry, Puer University, Puer Yunnan 665000, China.
| | - Fang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Subtropical Medicinal Edible Resources Development and Utilization in Yunnan Province, Department of Biology and Chemistry, Puer University, Puer Yunnan 665000, China. .,Institute of Comparative Study of Traditional Materia Medica, Institute of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Wen-Hui Lee
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province/Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China.
| | - Yun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province/Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming Yunnan 650223, China.
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The antimicrobial potential of a new derivative of cathelicidin from Bungarus fasciatus against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. J Microbiol 2018; 56:128-137. [DOI: 10.1007/s12275-018-7444-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Pérez-Peinado C, Dias SA, Domingues MM, Benfield AH, Freire JM, Rádis-Baptista G, Gaspar D, Castanho MARB, Craik DJ, Henriques ST, Veiga AS, Andreu D. Mechanisms of bacterial membrane permeabilization by crotalicidin (Ctn) and its fragment Ctn(15-34), antimicrobial peptides from rattlesnake venom. J Biol Chem 2017; 293:1536-1549. [PMID: 29255091 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra117.000125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Crotalicidin (Ctn), a cathelicidin-related peptide from the venom of a South American rattlesnake, possesses potent antimicrobial, antitumor, and antifungal properties. Previously, we have shown that its C-terminal fragment, Ctn(15-34), retains the antimicrobial and antitumor activities but is less toxic to healthy cells and has improved serum stability. Here, we investigated the mechanisms of action of Ctn and Ctn(15-34) against Gram-negative bacteria. Both peptides were bactericidal, killing ∼90% of Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa cells within 90-120 and 5-30 min, respectively. Studies of ζ potential at the bacterial cell membrane suggested that both peptides accumulate at and neutralize negative charges on the bacterial surface. Flow cytometry experiments confirmed that both peptides permeabilize the bacterial cell membrane but suggested slightly different mechanisms of action. Ctn(15-34) permeabilized the membrane immediately upon addition to the cells, whereas Ctn had a lag phase before inducing membrane damage and exhibited more complex cell-killing activity, probably because of two different modes of membrane permeabilization. Using surface plasmon resonance and leakage assays with model vesicles, we confirmed that Ctn(15-34) binds to and disrupts lipid membranes and also observed that Ctn(15-34) has a preference for vesicles that mimic bacterial or tumor cell membranes. Atomic force microscopy visualized the effect of these peptides on bacterial cells, and confocal microscopy confirmed their localization on the bacterial surface. Our studies shed light onto the antimicrobial mechanisms of Ctn and Ctn(15-34), suggesting Ctn(15-34) as a promising lead for development as an antibacterial/antitumor agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Pérez-Peinado
- From the Department of Experimental and Health Science, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susana Almeida Dias
- the Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marco M Domingues
- the Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Aurélie H Benfield
- the Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - João Miguel Freire
- the Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.,the Department of Virology, Institut Pasteur, 75724 Paris, France, and
| | - Gandhi Rádis-Baptista
- From the Department of Experimental and Health Science, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, 08003 Barcelona, Spain.,the Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute for Marine Science, Federal University of Ceará, 60165-081 Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Diana Gaspar
- the Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Miguel A R B Castanho
- the Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - David J Craik
- the Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Sónia Troeira Henriques
- the Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia,
| | - Ana Salomé Veiga
- the Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal,
| | - David Andreu
- From the Department of Experimental and Health Science, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, 08003 Barcelona, Spain,
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Genomewide Analysis of the Antimicrobial Peptides in Python bivittatus and Characterization of Cathelicidins with Potent Antimicrobial Activity and Low Cytotoxicity. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2017. [PMID: 28630199 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00530-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we sought to identify novel antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in Python bivittatus through bioinformatic analyses of publicly available genome information and experimental validation. In our analysis of the python genome, we identified 29 AMP-related candidate sequences. Of these, we selected five cathelicidin-like sequences and subjected them to further in silico analyses. The results showed that these sequences likely have antimicrobial activity. The sequences were named Pb-CATH1 to Pb-CATH5 according to their sequence similarity to previously reported snake cathelicidins. We predicted their molecular structure and then chemically synthesized the mature peptide for three putative cathelicidins and subjected them to biological activity tests. Interestingly, all three peptides showed potent antimicrobial effects against Gram-negative bacteria but very weak activity against Gram-positive bacteria. Remarkably, ΔPb-CATH4 showed potent activity against antibiotic-resistant clinical isolates and also was observed to possess very low hemolytic activity and cytotoxicity. ΔPb-CATH4 also showed considerable serum stability. Electron microscopic analysis indicated that ΔPb-CATH4 exerts its effects via toroidal pore preformation. Structural comparison of the cathelicidins identified in this study to previously reported ones revealed that these Pb-CATHs are representatives of a new group of reptilian cathelicidins lacking the acidic connecting domain. Furthermore, Pb-CATH4 possesses a completely different mature peptide sequence from those of previously described reptilian cathelicidins. These new AMPs may be candidates for the development of alternatives to or complements of antibiotics to control multidrug-resistant pathogens.
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Ageitos J, Sánchez-Pérez A, Calo-Mata P, Villa T. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs): Ancient compounds that represent novel weapons in the fight against bacteria. Biochem Pharmacol 2017; 133:117-138. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2016.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 328] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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41
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Perumal Samy R, Stiles BG, Franco OL, Sethi G, Lim LH. Animal venoms as antimicrobial agents. Biochem Pharmacol 2017; 134:127-138. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2017.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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42
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Barksdale SM, Hrifko EJ, van Hoek ML. Cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide from Alligator mississippiensis has antibacterial activity against multi-drug resistant Acinetobacter baumanii and Klebsiella pneumoniae. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 70:135-144. [PMID: 28089718 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2017.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Alligator mississippiensis (American alligator), a member of order Crocodilia, lives in bacteria-laden environments but is not often known to succumb to bacterial infections. Their serum has been shown to have antibacterial activity beyond that of human serum, and it is believed that this activity is partially due to cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs). CAMPs are produced by many organisms as part of the innate immune system. CAMPs are attractive possible therapies against multi-drug resistant bacteria, such as those found in biofilm-infected war wounds, because they seldom cause genetic resistance in bacteria and are effective against antibiotic resistant bacteria. In this work, we identified, synthesized, and characterized a cathelicidin and two shorter fragments from the American alligator. We discovered the cathelicidin using Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) alignment and by comparing A. mississippiensis expressed sequence tags (ESTs) with propeptide cathelicidins of other reptiles. We analyzed the structure using bioinformatics tools and circular dichroism and predicted that the full-length cathelicidin peptide has a mixed structure, with an N-terminal α-helix and a center Pro hinge. In minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays, it was determined that the cathelicidin and the two shorter fragments have strong activity against multiple Gram-negative bacteria, including clinical isolates of multi-drug resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii and carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae. Using the ethidium bromide uptake assay, it was found that these peptides permeabilize the bacterial membrane and are less sensitive to salt inhibition than many other known CAMPs. The alligator cathelicidin peptides were not hemolytic against sheep red blood cells at 300 μg/ml and were not significantly cytotoxic against A549 human lung epithelial cells after 24 h exposure in 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. These alligator cathelicidin peptides have activity similar to other CAMPs from reptiles such as NA-CATH. It is possible that the alligator cathelicidins play an important role in the innate immune response of A. mississippiensis, similar to LL-37 in humans. In addition, due to their activities against MDR bacteria and lack of cytotoxicity, the AM-CATH peptides could be an attractive platform for further development as a potential therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Evelyn J Hrifko
- College of Science, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA
| | - Monique L van Hoek
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA; College of Science, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA; National Center for Biodefense and Infectious Diseases, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA.
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Boldrini-França J, Cologna CT, Pucca MB, Bordon KDCF, Amorim FG, Anjolette FAP, Cordeiro FA, Wiezel GA, Cerni FA, Pinheiro-Junior EL, Shibao PYT, Ferreira IG, de Oliveira IS, Cardoso IA, Arantes EC. Minor snake venom proteins: Structure, function and potential applications. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2017; 1861:824-838. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2016.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Yacoub HA, Elazzazy AM, Mahmoud MM, Baeshen MN, Al-Maghrabi OA, Alkarim S, Ahmed ES, Almehdar HA, Uversky VN. Chicken cathelicidins as potent intrinsically disordered biocides with antimicrobial activity against infectious pathogens. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2016; 65:8-24. [PMID: 27328070 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2016.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This study was performed to identify the expression patterns of the cathelicidin genes in a local chicken breed and to evaluate the antimicrobial activities of the cathelicidin peptides against pathogenic bacteria. This analysis revealed that the coding regions of CATH-1, -2, and -3 genes contain 447 bp, 465 bp, and 456 bp, respectively, and encode proteins of 148, 154, 151 amino acids, respectively. The complete amino acid sequences of the cathelicidin peptides are similar to those found in Meleagris gallopavo, Phasianus colchicus, and Coturnix coturnix, and show high sequence identity to their Columba livia and Anas platyrhynchos counterparts. In contrast, these avian peptides shared a very low sequence identity with the mammalian cathelicidins. The analysis further revealed that the cathelicidin genes are expressed in various organ and tissues. We also show that the CATH peptides 1, 2, 3 and their amide-modified structures possess potent antimicrobial activities against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens, with these bacteria being affected to different extents. The antimicrobial activities of the peptides are slightly lower than those of their amide analogs. Computational analysis revealed that pre-pro-cathelicidins are hybrid proteins that contain ordered domains and functional intrinsically disordered regions. Furthermore, high structural and sequence variability of mature cathelicidins is a strong indication of their rather disordered nature. It is likely that intrinsic disorder is needed for the multifarious functionality of these antimicrobial peptides. Our analyses indicated that cathelicidin peptides require further study to better understand their full potentials in the treatment of diseases in both humans and animals. The data obtained for synthetic avian peptides will help elucidating of their potential applications in the pharmaceutical industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitham A Yacoub
- Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Cell Biology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Division, National Research Centre, Dokki, P.O. Box 12622, Gizza, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed M Elazzazy
- Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Chemistry of Natural and Microbial Products, Division of Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries, National Research Centre, Dokki, P.O. Box 12622, Gizza, Egypt.
| | - Maged M Mahmoud
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80216, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Department of Molecular Genetics and Enzymology, Davison of Human Genetics and Genome Research, National Research Centre, Dokki, P.O. Box 12622, Gizza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Nabih Baeshen
- Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar A Al-Maghrabi
- Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh Alkarim
- Embryonic Stem Cell Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80216, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ekram S Ahmed
- Cell Biology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Division, National Research Centre, Dokki, P.O. Box 12622, Gizza, Egypt
| | - Hussein A Almehdar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Vladimir N Uversky
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Laboratory of Structural Dynamics, Stability and Folding of Proteins, Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia; Department of Molecular Medicine and USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.
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Samuel R, Gillmor S. Membrane phase characteristics control NA-CATH activity. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2016; 1858:1974-1982. [PMID: 27216315 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2016.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Our studies presented in this report focus on the behavior of NA-CATH, an α-helical cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, originally discovered in the Naja atra snake. It has demonstrated high potency against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria with minimal hemolysis. Here we examine the kinetics, behaviors and potential mechanisms of the peptide in the presence of membrane liposome, modeling Escherichia coli, whose membrane exhibits distinct lipid phases. To understand NA-CATH interactions, the role of lipid phases is critical. We test three different lipid compositions to detangle the effect of phase on NA-CATH's activity using a series of leakage experiments. From these studies, we observe that NA-CATH changes from membrane disruption to pore-based lysing, depending on phases and lipid composition. This behavior also plays a major role in its kinetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Samuel
- Department of Chemistry, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, United States
| | - Susan Gillmor
- Department of Chemistry, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, United States.
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Juba M, Porter D, Dean S, Gillmor S, Bishop B. Characterization and performance of short cationic antimicrobial peptide isomers. Biopolymers 2016; 100:387-401. [PMID: 23532931 DOI: 10.1002/bip.22244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Revised: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) represent an ancient defense mechanism against invading bacteria, with peptides such as the cathelicidins being essential elements of vertebrate innate immunity. CAMPs are typically associated with broad-spectrum antimicrobial potency and limited bacterial resistance. The cathelicidin identified from the elapid snake Naja atra (NA-CATH) contains a semi-conserved repeated 11-residue motif (ATRA motif) with a sequence pattern consistent with formation of an amphipathic helical conformation. Short peptide amides (ATRA-1, -1A, -1P, and -2) generated based on the pair of ATRA motifs in NA-CATH exhibited varied antimicrobial potencies. The small size of the ATRA peptides, coupled with their varied antimicrobial performances, make them interesting models to study the impact various physico-chemical properties have on antimicrobial performance in helical CAMPs. Accordingly, the D- and L-enantiomers of the peptide ATRA-1A, which in earlier studies had shown both good antimicrobial performance and strong helical character, were investigated in order to assess the impact peptide stereochemistry has on antimicrobial performance and interaction with chiral membranes. The ATRA-1A isomers exhibit varied potencies against four bacterial strains, and their conformational properties in the presence of mixed zwitterionic/anionic liposomes are influenced by anionic lipid content. These studies reveal subtle differences in the properties of the peptide isomers. Differences are also seen in the abilities of the ATRA-1A isomers to induce liposome fusion/aggregation, bilayer rearrangement and lysing through turbidity studies and fluorescence microscopy. The similarities and differences in the properties of the ATRA-1A isomers could aid in efforts to develop D-peptide-based therapeutics using high-performing L-peptides as templates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Juba
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA
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A brief update on potential molecular mechanisms underlying antimicrobial and wound-healing potency of snake venom molecules. Biochem Pharmacol 2016; 115:1-9. [PMID: 26975619 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2016.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Infectious diseases remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. A wide range of diverse, novel classes of natural antibiotics have been isolated from different snake species in the recent past. Snake venoms contain diverse groups of proteins with potent antibacterial activity against a wide range of human pathogens. Some snake venom molecules are pharmacologically attractive, as they possess promising broad-spectrum antibacterial activities. Furthermore, snake venom proteins (SVPs)/peptides also bind to integrins with high affinity, thereby inhibiting cell adhesion and accelerating wound healing in animal models. Thus, SVPs are a potential alternative to chemical antibiotics. The mode of action for many antibacterial peptides involves pore formation and disruption of the plasma membrane. This activity often includes modulation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation during skin wound healing. The NF-κB pathway negatively regulates the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/Smad pathway by inducing the expression of Smad7 and eventually reducing in vivo collagen production at the wound sites. In this context, SVPs that regulate the NF-κB signaling pathway may serve as potential targets for drug development.
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48
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The human cathelicidin LL-37 — A pore-forming antibacterial peptide and host-cell modulator. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2016; 1858:546-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Revised: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Azim S, McDowell D, Cartagena A, Rodriguez R, Laughlin TF, Ahmad Z. Venom peptides cathelicidin and lycotoxin cause strong inhibition of Escherichia coli ATP synthase. Int J Biol Macromol 2016; 87:246-51. [PMID: 26930579 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2016.02.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Venom peptides are known to have strong antimicrobial activity and anticancer properties. King cobra cathelicidin or OH-CATH (KF-34), banded krait cathelicidin (BF-30), wolf spider lycotoxin I (IL-25), and wolf spider lycotoxin II (KE-27) venom peptides were found to strongly inhibit Escherichia coli membrane bound F1Fo ATP synthase. The potent inhibition of wild-type E. coli in comparison to the partial inhibition of null E. coli by KF-34, BF-30, Il-25, or KE-27 clearly links the bactericidal properties of these venom peptides to the binding and inhibition of ATP synthase along with the possibility of other inhibitory targets. The four venom peptides KF-34, BF-30, IL-25, and KE-27, caused ≥85% inhibition of wild-type membrane bound E.coli ATP synthase. Venom peptide induced inhibition of ATP synthase and the strong abrogation of wild-type E. coli cell growth in the presence of venom peptides demonstrates that ATP synthase is a potent membrane bound molecular target for venom peptides. Furthermore, the process of inhibition was found to be fully reversible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofiya Azim
- Department of Biochemistry, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, A.T. Still University, Kirksville, MO, United States; Department of Biological Sciences, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States
| | - Derek McDowell
- Department of Biochemistry, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, A.T. Still University, Kirksville, MO, United States
| | - Alec Cartagena
- Department of Biochemistry, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, A.T. Still University, Kirksville, MO, United States
| | - Ricky Rodriguez
- Department of Biochemistry, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, A.T. Still University, Kirksville, MO, United States
| | - Thomas F Laughlin
- Department of Biological Sciences, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States
| | - Zulfiqar Ahmad
- Department of Biochemistry, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, A.T. Still University, Kirksville, MO, United States.
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50
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Dubovskii PV, Vassilevski AA, Kozlov SA, Feofanov AV, Grishin EV, Efremov RG. Latarcins: versatile spider venom peptides. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:4501-22. [PMID: 26286896 PMCID: PMC11113828 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-2016-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Revised: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Arthropod venoms feature the presence of cytolytic peptides believed to act synergetically with neurotoxins to paralyze prey or deter aggressors. Many of them are linear, i.e., lack disulfide bonds. When isolated from the venom, or obtained by other means, these peptides exhibit common properties. They are cationic; being mostly disordered in aqueous solution, assume amphiphilic α-helical structure in contact with lipid membranes; and exhibit general cytotoxicity, including antifungal, antimicrobial, hemolytic, and anticancer activities. To suit the pharmacological needs, the activity spectrum of these peptides should be modified by rational engineering. As an example, we provide a detailed review on latarcins (Ltc), linear cytolytic peptides from Lachesana tarabaevi spider venom. Diverse experimental and computational techniques were used to investigate the spatial structure of Ltc in membrane-mimicking environments and their effects on model lipid bilayers. The antibacterial activity of Ltc was studied against a panel of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. In addition, the action of Ltc on erythrocytes and cancer cells was investigated in detail with confocal laser scanning microscopy. In the present review, we give a critical account of the progress in the research of Ltc. We explore the relationship between Ltc structure and their biological activity and derive molecular characteristics, which can be used for optimization of other linear peptides. Current applications of Ltc and prospective use of similar membrane-active peptides are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter V Dubovskii
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 16/10 Miklukho-Maklaya, Moscow, 117997, Russia.
| | - Alexander A Vassilevski
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 16/10 Miklukho-Maklaya, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Sergey A Kozlov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 16/10 Miklukho-Maklaya, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Alexey V Feofanov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 16/10 Miklukho-Maklaya, Moscow, 117997, Russia
- Biological Faculty, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 1 Leninskie Gory, Moscow, 119234, Russia
| | - Eugene V Grishin
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 16/10 Miklukho-Maklaya, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Roman G Efremov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 16/10 Miklukho-Maklaya, Moscow, 117997, Russia
- Higher School of Economics, 20 Myasnitskaya, Moscow, 101000, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (State University), 9 Institutskiy per., Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141700, Russia
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