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Fong-Coronado PA, Ramirez V, Quintero-Hernández V, Balleza D. A Critical Review of Short Antimicrobial Peptides from Scorpion Venoms, Their Physicochemical Attributes, and Potential for the Development of New Drugs. J Membr Biol 2024; 257:165-205. [PMID: 38990274 PMCID: PMC11289363 DOI: 10.1007/s00232-024-00315-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Scorpion venoms have proven to be excellent sources of antimicrobial agents. However, although many of them have been functionally characterized, they remain underutilized as pharmacological agents, despite their evident therapeutic potential. In this review, we discuss the physicochemical properties of short scorpion venom antimicrobial peptides (ssAMPs). Being generally short (13-25 aa) and amidated, their proven antimicrobial activity is generally explained by parameters such as their net charge, the hydrophobic moment, or the degree of helicity. However, for a complete understanding of their biological activities, also considering the properties of the target membranes is of great relevance. Here, with an extensive analysis of the physicochemical, structural, and thermodynamic parameters associated with these biomolecules, we propose a theoretical framework for the rational design of new antimicrobial drugs. Through a comparison of these physicochemical properties with the bioactivity of ssAMPs in pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Acinetobacter baumannii, it is evident that in addition to the net charge, the hydrophobic moment, electrostatic energy, or intrinsic flexibility are determining parameters to understand their performance. Although the correlation between these parameters is very complex, the consensus of our analysis suggests that there is a delicate balance between them and that modifying one affects the rest. Understanding the contribution of lipid composition to their bioactivities is also underestimated, which suggests that for each peptide, there is a physiological context to consider for the rational design of new drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Alejandro Fong-Coronado
- Ecology and Survival of Microorganisms Group (ESMG), Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular Microbiana (LEMM), Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Microbiológicas (CICM), Instituto de Ciencias (IC), Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, México
| | - Verónica Ramirez
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (FCQ-BUAP), Ciudad Universitaria, Puebla, México
| | | | - Daniel Balleza
- Laboratorio de Microbiología, Unidad de Investigación y Desarrollo en Alimentos, Instituto Tecnológico de Veracruz, Tecnológico Nacional de México, Veracruz, México.
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2
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Gutierrez CDO, Almeida LHDO, Sardi JDCO, Almeida CV, de Oliveira CFR, Marchetto R, Crusca E, Buccini DF, Franco OL, Cardoso MH, Macedo MLR. Boosting the antibacterial potential of a linear encrypted peptide in a Kunitz-type inhibitor (ApTI) through physicochemical-guided approaches. Biochimie 2024:S0300-9084(24)00168-8. [PMID: 39029576 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.07.009] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial resistance has become a serious public health problem in recent years, thus encouraging the search for new antimicrobial agents. Here, we report an antimicrobial peptide (AMP), called PEPAD, which was designed based on an encrypted peptide from a Kunitz-type plant peptidase inhibitor. PEPAD was capable of rapidly inhibiting and eliminating numerous bacterial species at micromolar concentrations (from 4 μM to 10 μM), with direct membrane activity. It was also observed that the peptide can act synergistically with ciprofloxacin and showed no toxicity in the G. mellonella in vivo assay. Circular dichroism assays revealed that the peptide's secondary structure adopts different scaffolds depending on the environment in which it is inserted. In lipids mimicking bacterial cell membranes, PEPAD adopts a more stable α-helical structure, which is consistent with its membrane-associated mechanism of action. When in contact with lipids mimicking mammalian cells, PEPAD adopts a disordered structure, losing its function and suggesting cellular selectivity. Therefore, these findings make PEPAD a promising candidate for future antimicrobial therapies with low toxicity to the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila de Oliveira Gutierrez
- Laboratório de Purificação de Proteínas e Suas Funções Biológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Luís Henrique de Oliveira Almeida
- Laboratório de Purificação de Proteínas e Suas Funções Biológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Janaina de Cássia Orlandi Sardi
- Laboratório de Purificação de Proteínas e Suas Funções Biológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Claudiane Vilharroel Almeida
- Laboratório de Purificação de Proteínas e Suas Funções Biológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Caio Fernando Ramalho de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Purificação de Proteínas e Suas Funções Biológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Reinaldo Marchetto
- Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Química, Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Edson Crusca
- Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Química, Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Octavio Luiz Franco
- S-Inova Biotech, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil; Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Marlon Henrique Cardoso
- Laboratório de Purificação de Proteínas e Suas Funções Biológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil; S-Inova Biotech, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil; Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Maria Lígia Rodrigues Macedo
- Laboratório de Purificação de Proteínas e Suas Funções Biológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil.
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3
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Registre C, Silva LM, Registre F, Soares RDDOA, Rubio KTS, Carneiro SP, Dos Santos ODH. Targeting Leishmania Promastigotes and Amastigotes Forms through Amino Acids and Peptides: A Promising Therapeutic Strategy. ACS Infect Dis 2024. [PMID: 38950147 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Millions of people worldwide are affected by leishmaniasis, caused by the Leishmania parasite. Effective treatment is challenging due to the biological complexity of the parasite, drug toxicity, and increasing resistance to conventional drugs. To combat this disease, the development of specific strategies to target and selectively eliminate the parasite is crucial. This Review highlights the importance of amino acids in the developmental stages of Leishmania as a factor determining whether the infection progresses or is suppressed. It also explores the use of peptides as alternatives in parasite control and the development of novel targeted treatments. While these strategies show promise for more effective and targeted treatment, further studies to address the remaining challenges are imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charmante Registre
- Phytotechnology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais 35400000, Brazil
| | - Luciana Miranda Silva
- Phytotechnology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais 35400000, Brazil
| | - Farah Registre
- School of Medicine, Goiás Federal University, Goiânia, Goiás 74605-050, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Dian de Oliveira Aguiar Soares
- Immunopathology Laboratory, Center for Research in Biological Sciences/NUPEB, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais 35400000, Brazil
| | - Karina Taciana Santos Rubio
- Toxicology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais 35400000, Brazil
| | - Simone Pinto Carneiro
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
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4
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Su J, Zhou P. Musical protein: Mapping the time sequence of music onto the spatial architecture of proteins. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2024; 252:108233. [PMID: 38781810 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2024.108233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Music, the ubiquitous language across human cultures, is traditionally considered as a form of art but has been linked to biomolecules in recent years. However, previous efforts have only been addressed on sonification of nucleic acids and proteins to produce so-called life music, the soundscape from the basic building blocks of life. In this study, we attempted to, for the first time, conduct a reverse operation of this process, i.e. conversion of music to protein (CoMtP). METHODS A novel notion termed musical protein (MP) -- the protein defined by music -- was proposed and, on this basis, we described a computational strategy to map the time sequence of music onto the spatial architecture of proteins, which considered that each note in the stave of a music (target) can be simply characterized by two acoustical quantities and that each residue in the primary sequence of a protein (hit) was represented by amino acid descriptors. RESULTS A simulated annealing (SA) algorithm was applied to iteratively generate the best matched MP hit for a music target and structural bioinformatics was then used to model spatial advanced structure for the resulting MP. We also demonstrated that some small MPs derived from music segments may have potential biological functions, which, for example, can serve as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) to inhibit clinical bacterial strains with moderate or high antibacterial potency. CONCLUSIONS This work may benefit many aspects; for example, it would open a door for the hearing-impaired persons to 'listen' music in a biological vision and could be a mean of exposing students to the concepts of biomolecules at an earlier age through the use of auditory characteristics. The CoMtP would also facilitate the rational design of proteins with biological and medicinal significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Su
- College of Music, Chengdu Normal University, No.99 Haike Road East Section, Wenjiang District, Chengdu 611130, China.
| | - Peng Zhou
- Center for Informational Biology, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), No.2006 Xiyuan Ave West Hi-Tech Zone, Chengdu 611731, China.
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5
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Groover KE, Randall JR, Davies BW. Development of a Selective and Stable Antimicrobial Peptide. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:2151-2160. [PMID: 38712889 PMCID: PMC11185160 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are presented as potential scaffolds for antibiotic development due to their desirable qualities including broad-spectrum activity, rapid action, and general lack of susceptibility to current resistance mechanisms. However, they often lose antibacterial activity under physiological conditions and/or display mammalian cell toxicity, which limits their potential use. Identification of AMPs that overcome these barriers will help develop rules for how this antibacterial class can be developed to treat infection. Here we describe the development of our novel synthetic AMP, from discovery through in vivo application. Our evolved AMP, DTr18-dab, has broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and is nonhemolytic. It is active against planktonic bacteria and biofilm, is unaffected by colistin resistance, and importantly is active in both human serum and a Galleria mellonella infection model. Several modifications, including the incorporation of noncanonical amino acids, were used to arrive at this robust sequence. We observed that the impact on antibacterial activity with noncanonical amino acids was dependent on assay conditions and therefore not entirely predictable. Overall, our results demonstrate how a relatively weak lead can be developed into a robust AMP with qualities important for potential therapeutic translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyra E. Groover
- Department
of Molecular Biosciences, The University
of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Justin R. Randall
- Department
of Molecular Biosciences, The University
of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Bryan W. Davies
- Department
of Molecular Biosciences, The University
of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
- John
Ring LaMontagne Center for Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
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6
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Enninful GN, Kuppusamy R, Tiburu EK, Kumar N, Willcox MDP. Non-canonical amino acid bioincorporation into antimicrobial peptides and its challenges. J Pept Sci 2024; 30:e3560. [PMID: 38262069 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
The rise of antimicrobial resistance and multi-drug resistant pathogens has necessitated explorations for novel antibiotic agents as the discovery of conventional antibiotics is becoming economically less viable and technically more challenging for biopharma. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have emerged as a promising alternative because of their particular mode of action, broad spectrum and difficulty that microbes have in becoming resistant to them. The AMPs bacitracin, gramicidin, polymyxins and daptomycin are currently used clinically. However, their susceptibility to proteolytic degradation, toxicity profile, and complexities in large-scale manufacture have hindered their development. To improve their proteolytic stability, methods such as integrating non-canonical amino acids (ncAAs) into their peptide sequence have been adopted, which also improves their potency and spectrum of action. The benefits of ncAA incorporation have been made possible by solid-phase peptide synthesis. However, this method is not always suitable for commercial production of AMPs because of poor yield, scale-up difficulties, and its non-'green' nature. Bioincorporation of ncAA as a method of integration is an emerging field geared towards tackling the challenges of solid-phase synthesis as a green, cheaper, and scalable alternative for commercialisation of AMPs. This review focusses on the bioincorporation of ncAAs; some challenges associated with the methods are outlined, and notes are given on how to overcome these challenges. The review focusses particularly on addressing two key challenges: AMP cytotoxicity towards microbial cell factories and the uptake of ncAAs that are unfavourable to them. Overcoming these challenges will draw us closer to a greater yield and an environmentally friendly and sustainable approach to make AMPs more druggable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rajesh Kuppusamy
- University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Naresh Kumar
- University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark D P Willcox
- University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
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7
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Pincus MR, Silberstein M, Zohar N, Sarafraz-Yazdi E, Bowne WB. Poptosis or Peptide-Induced Transmembrane Pore Formation: A Novel Way to Kill Cancer Cells without Affecting Normal Cells. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1144. [PMID: 38927351 PMCID: PMC11201261 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12061144] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in cancer treatment like personalized chemotherapy and immunotherapy are aimed at tumors that meet certain specifications. In this review, we describe a new approach to general cancer treatment, termed peptide-induced poptosis, in which specific peptides, e.g., PNC-27 and its shorter analogue, PNC-28, that contain the segment of the p53 transactivating 12-26 domain that bind to HDM-2 in its 1-109 domain, bind to HDM-2 in the membranes of cancer cells, resulting in transmembrane pore formation and the rapid extrusion of cancer cell contents, i.e., tumor cell necrosis. These peptides cause tumor cell necrosis of a wide variety of solid tissue and hematopoietic tumors but have no effect on the viability and growth of normal cells since they express at most low levels of membrane-bound HDM-2. They have been found to successfully treat a highly metastatic pancreatic tumor as well as stem-cell-enriched human acute myelogenous leukemias in nude mice, with no evidence of off-target effects. These peptides also are cytotoxic to chemotherapy-resistant cancers and to primary tumors. We performed high-resolution scanning immuno-electron microscopy and visualized the pores in cancer cells induced by PNC-27. This peptide forms 1:1 complexes with HDM-2 in a temperature-independent step, followed by dimerization of these complexes to form transmembrane channels in a highly temperature-dependent step parallel to the mode of action of other membranolytic but less specific agents like streptolysin. These peptides therefore may be effective as general anti-cancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R. Pincus
- Department of Pathology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
| | | | - Nitzan Zohar
- Department of Surgery, Jefferson Pancreas, Biliary and Related Cancer, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (N.Z.); (W.B.B.)
| | | | - Wilbur B. Bowne
- Department of Surgery, Jefferson Pancreas, Biliary and Related Cancer, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (N.Z.); (W.B.B.)
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8
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Zhong C, Zou J, Mao W, Yang P, Zhang J, Gou S, Zhang Y, Liu H, Ni J. Structure modification of anoplin for fighting resistant bacteria. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116276. [PMID: 38452726 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of bacterial resistance has posed a significant challenge to clinical antimicrobial treatment, rendering commonly used antibiotics ineffective. The development of novel antimicrobial agents and strategies is imperative for the treatment of resistant bacterial infections. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are considered a promising class of antimicrobial agents due to their low propensity for resistance and broad-spectrum activity. Anoplin is a small linear α-helical natural antimicrobial peptide that was isolated from the venom of the solitary wasp Anplius samariensis. It exhibits rich biological activity, particularly broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and low hemolytic activity. Over the past three decades, more than 40 research publications on anoplin have been made available online. This review focuses on the advancements of anoplin in antimicrobial research, encompassing its sources, characterization, antimicrobial activity, influencing factors and structural modifications. The aim is to provide assistances for the development of new antimicrobial agents that can combat bacterial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, PR China; Institute of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China.
| | - Jing Zou
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China
| | - Wenbo Mao
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China
| | - Ping Yang
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China
| | - Jingying Zhang
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China
| | - Sanhu Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, PR China; Institute of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China
| | - Yun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, PR China; Institute of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China
| | - Hui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, PR China; Institute of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China
| | - Jingman Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, PR China; Institute of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Research Unit of Peptide Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU066, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China.
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9
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Kubiak X, Polsinelli I, Chavas LMG, Fyfe CD, Guillot A, Fradale L, Brewee C, Grimaldi S, Gerbaud G, Thureau A, Legrand P, Berteau O, Benjdia A. Structural and mechanistic basis for RiPP epimerization by a radical SAM enzyme. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:382-391. [PMID: 38158457 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01493-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
D-Amino acid residues, found in countless peptides and natural products including ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs), are critical for the bioactivity of several antibiotics and toxins. Recently, radical S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) enzymes have emerged as the only biocatalysts capable of installing direct and irreversible epimerization in RiPPs. However, the mechanism underpinning this biochemical process is ill-understood and the structural basis for this post-translational modification remains unknown. Here we report an atomic-resolution crystal structure of a RiPP-modifying radical SAM enzyme in complex with its substrate properly positioned in the active site. Crystallographic snapshots, size-exclusion chromatography-small-angle x-ray scattering, electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and biochemical analyses reveal how epimerizations are installed in RiPPs and support an unprecedented enzyme mechanism for peptide epimerization. Collectively, our study brings unique perspectives on how radical SAM enzymes interact with RiPPs and catalyze post-translational modifications in natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Kubiak
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, ChemSyBio, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Ivan Polsinelli
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, ChemSyBio, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | | | - Cameron D Fyfe
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, ChemSyBio, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Alain Guillot
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, ChemSyBio, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Laura Fradale
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, ChemSyBio, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Clémence Brewee
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, ChemSyBio, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | | | | | - Aurélien Thureau
- Synchrotron SOLEIL, HelioBio Group, L'Orme des Merisiers, Saint-Aubin, France
| | - Pierre Legrand
- Synchrotron SOLEIL, HelioBio Group, L'Orme des Merisiers, Saint-Aubin, France
| | - Olivier Berteau
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, ChemSyBio, Jouy-en-Josas, France.
| | - Alhosna Benjdia
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, ChemSyBio, Jouy-en-Josas, France.
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10
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Cherniavskyi YK, Oliva R, Stellato M, Del Vecchio P, Galdiero S, Falanga A, Dames SA, Tieleman DP. Structural characterization of the antimicrobial peptides myxinidin and WMR in bacterial membrane mimetic micelles and bicelles. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOMEMBRANES 2024; 1866:184272. [PMID: 38211645 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2024.184272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides are a promising class of potential antibiotics that interact selectively with negatively charged lipid bilayers. This paper presents the structural characterization of the antimicrobial peptides myxinidin and WMR associated with bacterial membrane mimetic micelles and bicelles by NMR, CD spectroscopy, and molecular dynamics simulations. Both peptides adopt a different conformation in the lipidic environment than in aqueous solution. The location of the peptides in micelles and bicelles has been studied by paramagnetic relaxation enhancement experiments with paramagnetic tagged 5- and 16-doxyl stearic acid (5-/16-SASL). Molecular dynamics simulations of multiple copies of the peptides were used to obtain an atomic level of detail on membrane-peptide and peptide-peptide interactions. Our results highlight an essential role of the negatively charged membrane mimetic in the structural stability of both myxinidin and WMR. The peptides localize predominantly in the membrane's headgroup region and have a noticeable membrane thinning effect on the overall bilayer structure. Myxinidin and WMR show a different tendency to self-aggregate, which is also influenced by the membrane composition (DOPE/DOPG versus DOPE/DOPG/CL) and can be related to the previously observed difference in the ability of the peptides to disrupt different types of model membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yevhen K Cherniavskyi
- Department of Biological Sciences and Centre for Molecular Simulation, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Rosario Oliva
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", via Cintia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Stellato
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", via Cintia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Pompea Del Vecchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", via Cintia, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Galdiero
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Annarita Falanga
- Department of Agricultural Science, University of Naples 'Federico II', Via dell' Università 100, 80055 Portici, Naples, Italy
| | - Sonja A Dames
- Chair of Biomolecular NMR Spectroscopy, Department of Chemistry, Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85747 Garching, Germany; Hausdorff Center for Mathematics, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 62, 53115 Bonn, Germany; Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - D Peter Tieleman
- Department of Biological Sciences and Centre for Molecular Simulation, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada.
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11
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Rengifo-Lema MJ, Proaño-Bolaños C, Cuesta S, Meneses L. Computational modelling of the antimicrobial peptides Cruzioseptin-4 extracted from the frog Cruziohyla calcarifer and Pictuseptin-1 extracted from the frog Boana picturata. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4805. [PMID: 38413681 PMCID: PMC10899591 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55171-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
A computational study of the peptides Cruzioseptin-4 and Pictuseptin-1, identified in Cruziohyla calcarifer and Boana picturata respectively, has been carried out. The studies on Cruzioseptin-4 show that it is a cationic peptide with a chain of 23 amino acids that possess 52.17% of hydrophobic amino acids and a charge of + 1.2 at pH 7. Similarly, Pictuseptin-1 is a 22 amino acids peptide with a charge of + 3 at pH 7 and 45.45% of hydrophobic amino acids. Furthermore, the predominant secondary structure for both peptides is alpha-helical. The physicochemical properties were predicted using PepCalc and Bio-Synthesis; secondary structures using Jpred4 and PredictProtein; while molecular docking was performed using Autodock Vina. Geometry optimization of the peptides was done using the ONIOM hybrid method with the HF/6-31G basis set implemented in the Gaussian 09 program. Finally, the molecular docking study indicates that the viable mechanism of action for both peptides is through a targeted attack on the cell membrane of pathogens via electrostatic interactions with different membrane components, leading to cell lysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Rengifo-Lema
- Escuela de Ciencias Químicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Av. 12 de Octubre 1076 y Roca, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Sebastián Cuesta
- Escuela de Ciencias Químicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Av. 12 de Octubre 1076 y Roca, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Lorena Meneses
- Escuela de Ciencias Químicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Av. 12 de Octubre 1076 y Roca, Quito, Ecuador.
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12
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Hsu PH, Hazam PK, Huang YP, Yeh JC, Chen YR, Li CC, Chang CF, Liou JW, Chen JY. Optimization of sequence and chiral content enhances therapeutic potential of tilapia piscidin peptides. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116083. [PMID: 38150960 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Because antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) often exhibit broad-spectrum bactericidal potency, we sought to develop peptide-based antimicrobials for potential clinical use against drug-resistant pathogens. To accomplish this goal, we first optimized the amino acid sequence of a broad-spectrum AMP known as Tilapia Piscidin 4 (TP4). Then, we used the optimized sequence to create a pair of heterochiral variants (TP4-α and TP4-β) with different percentages of D-enantiomers, as poly-L peptides often exhibit poor pharmacokinetic profiles. The conformations of the peptide pair exhibited inverted chirality according to CD and NMR spectroscopic analyses. Both heterochiral peptides displayed enhanced stability and low hemolysis activities. Irrespective of their different d-enantiomer contents, both heterochiral peptides exhibited bactericidal activities in the presence of human serum or physiological enzymes. However, the peptide with higher d-amino acid content (TP4-β) caused better bacterial clearance when tested in mice infected with NDM-1 K. pneumoniae. In addition, we observed a relatively higher hydrogen bonding affinity in a simulation of the interaction between TP4-β and a model bacterial membrane. In sum, our results demonstrate that the current design strategy may be applicable for development of new molecules with enhanced stability and in vivo antimicrobial activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Hsien Hsu
- Institute of Fisheries Science, National Taiwan University, 1 Roosevelt Road, Sec. 4, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Prakash Kishore Hazam
- Marine Research Station, Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, 23-10 Dahuen Rd., Jiaushi, Ilan, 262, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ping Huang
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jih-Chao Yeh
- Marine Research Station, Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, 23-10 Dahuen Rd., Jiaushi, Ilan, 262, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Ru Chen
- Academia Sinica Protein Clinic, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang District, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Chin Li
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Nankang, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Fon Chang
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Je-Wen Liou
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, 701, Sec.3, Chung-Yang Rd, Hualien, 970, Taiwan.
| | - Jyh-Yih Chen
- Marine Research Station, Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, 23-10 Dahuen Rd., Jiaushi, Ilan, 262, Taiwan; The IEGG and Animal Biotechnology Center and the Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 402, Taiwan.
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13
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Jeyarajan S, Peter AS, Sathyan A, Ranjith S, Kandasamy I, Duraisamy S, Chidambaram P, Kumarasamy A. Expression and purification of epinecidin-1 variant (Ac-Var-1) by acid cleavage. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:176. [PMID: 38277014 PMCID: PMC10817847 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-024-13017-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
The demand for massive quantities of therapeutic active antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) is high due to their potential as alternatives to antibiotics. However, each antimicrobial peptide has unique properties, necessitating distinct synthesis and purification strategies for their large-scale production. In this study, we bio-synthesized and purified a functional enhanced variant of the AMP epinecidin-1, known as Ac-Var-1 (acid-cleavable variant-1). To generate the active peptide, we cloned the gene for Ac-Var-1 with acid-cleavable site (aspartic acid-proline) into the pET-32a expression vector, purified the fusion protein by His tag enrichment chromatography, and performed acid cleavage to release the active Ac-Var-1 peptide. After acid cleavage, the active Ac-Var-1 was purified and characterized by SDS-PAGE and mass spectrometry. The results from both techniques provided confirmation of the intactness of the purified Ac-Var-1. The Ac-Var-1 inhibited the growth of pathogenic Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. KEY POINTS : • Epinecidin-1 is a well-known antimicrobial peptide having multipotential bioactivities. • Epinecidin-1 variant is developed via the site-directed mutagenesis method to improve its structural stability and bioactivity. • AC-Var-1 development is an economical and easy method to remove peptide from tag protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivakumar Jeyarajan
- Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Marine Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ansu Susan Peter
- Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Marine Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Aswathy Sathyan
- Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Marine Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sukumar Ranjith
- Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Marine Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Indira Kandasamy
- Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Marine Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Senbagam Duraisamy
- Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Marine Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
- Department of Biotechnology, SRM University, Chennai, India
| | | | - Anbarasu Kumarasamy
- Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Marine Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India.
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14
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Hsu PH, Hazam PK, Huang YP, Yeh JC, Chen YR, Li CC, Chang CF, Liou JW, Chen JY. Sequential rearrangement and stereochemical reorganization to design an antimicrobial peptide with enhanced stability. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:116088. [PMID: 38159380 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are natural molecules that function within the innate immune system to counteract pathogenic invasion and minimize the detrimental consequences of infection. However, utilizing these molecules for medical applications has been challenging. In this study, we selected a model AMP with poor stability, Tilapia Piscidin 4 (TP4), and modified its sequence and chirality (TP4-γ) to improve its potential for clinical application. The strategy of chirality inversion was inspired by the cereulide peptide, which has a DDLL enantiomer pattern and exhibits exceptional stability. Sequential substitution of key residues and selective chirality inversion yielded a less toxic peptide with enhanced stability and notable antimicrobial activity. In addition to its superior stability profile and antimicrobial activity, TP4-γ treatment reduced the level of LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) release in a macrophage cell line. This reduction in NO release may reflect anti-inflammatory properties, as NO is widely known to promote inflammatory processes. Hence, our heterochiral peptide construct shows a more suitable pharmacokinetic profile than its parental compound, and further studies are warranted to develop the molecule for potential clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Hsien Hsu
- Institute of Fisheries Science, National Taiwan University, 1 Roosevelt Road, Section 4, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Prakash Kishore Hazam
- Marine Research Station, Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, 23-10 Dahuen Rd., Jiaushi, Ilan 262, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ping Huang
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jih-Chao Yeh
- Marine Research Station, Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, 23-10 Dahuen Rd., Jiaushi, Ilan 262, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Ru Chen
- Academia Sinica Protein Clinic, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang District, Taipei 115, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Chin Li
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Nankang, Taipei 115, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Fon Chang
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Je-Wen Liou
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, 701, Section 3, Chung-Yang Rd, Hualien 970, Taiwan.
| | - Jyh-Yih Chen
- Marine Research Station, Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, 23-10 Dahuen Rd., Jiaushi, Ilan 262, Taiwan; The iEGG and Animal Biotechnology Center and the Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan.
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15
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Yao A, Liu T, Cai Y, Zhou S, Chen X, Zhou M, Ma C, Chen T, Shaw C, Wang L. Progressive Design of a Ranatuerin-2 Peptide from Amolops wuyiensis: Enhancement of Bioactivity and In Vivo Efficacy. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 13:5. [PMID: 38275314 PMCID: PMC10812557 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13010005] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) that exert multiple functions are considered promising candidates to combat the bacterial drug resistance crisis. Nowadays, targeted peptide modification has been widely recognised to improve biological activity and make up for deficiencies in clinical applications such as toxicity. In this study, a helix-loop peptide was isolated and identified from the skin secretion of the Wuyi torrent frog Amolops wuyiensis, namely, ranatuerin-2-AW (R2AW) (GFMDTAKNVAKNVAATLLDKLKCKITGGC). Target modifications were made to R2AW to study the structure-activity relationships and to optimise its bioactivities. Five analogues were progressively designed via residue substitution and truncation and the antibacterial and anticancer activities were evaluated. We found that the serine-substitution and cyclic-domain-deletion products showed similar antibacterial activity to the natural peptide R2AW, implying that the disulphide bridge and Rana box were dispensable for the antibacterial activity of ranatuerin-2 peptides. Notably, the cationicity- and hydrophobicity-enhanced variant, [Lys4,19, Leu20]R2AW(1-22)-NH2, exhibited significantly optimised antibacterial and anticancer activities. Additionally, it killed bacteria by membrane disruption at a highly efficient rate. Moreover, [Lys4,19, Leu20]R2AW(1-22)-NH2 exerted potential in vivo efficacy in a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-infected waxworm model. Overall, this study demonstrated some rational design ideas for optimising the dual antibacterial and anticancer activities of ranatuerin-2 peptides and it proposes [Lys4,19, Leu20]R2AW(1-22)-NH2 as an appealing candidate for therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aifang Yao
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Tianxing Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (T.L.); (Y.C.); (S.Z.); (M.Z.); (C.M.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (L.W.)
| | - Yuhai Cai
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (T.L.); (Y.C.); (S.Z.); (M.Z.); (C.M.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (L.W.)
| | - Siqi Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (T.L.); (Y.C.); (S.Z.); (M.Z.); (C.M.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (L.W.)
| | - Xiaoling Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (T.L.); (Y.C.); (S.Z.); (M.Z.); (C.M.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (L.W.)
| | - Mei Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (T.L.); (Y.C.); (S.Z.); (M.Z.); (C.M.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (L.W.)
| | - Chengbang Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (T.L.); (Y.C.); (S.Z.); (M.Z.); (C.M.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (L.W.)
| | - Tianbao Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (T.L.); (Y.C.); (S.Z.); (M.Z.); (C.M.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (L.W.)
| | - Chris Shaw
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (T.L.); (Y.C.); (S.Z.); (M.Z.); (C.M.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (L.W.)
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (T.L.); (Y.C.); (S.Z.); (M.Z.); (C.M.); (T.C.); (C.S.); (L.W.)
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16
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R PA, Anbarasu A. Antimicrobial Peptides as Immunomodulators and Antimycobacterial Agents to Combat Mycobacterium tuberculosis: a Critical Review. Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins 2023; 15:1539-1566. [PMID: 36576687 DOI: 10.1007/s12602-022-10018-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is a devastating disease foisting a significantly high morbidity, prepotent in low- and middle-income developing countries. Evolution of drug resistance among Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the causative agent of tuberculosis, has made the TB treatment more complicated. The protracted nature of present TB treatment, persistent and tolerant Mtb populations, interaction with antiretroviral therapy and existing toxicity concerned with conventional anti-TB drugs are the four major challenges inflicted with emergence of drug-resistant mycobacterial strains, and the standard medications are unable to combat these strains. These factors emphasize an exigency to develop new drugs to overcome these barriers in current TB therapy. With this regard, antimycobacterial peptides derived from various sources such as human cells, bacterial sources, mycobacteriophages, fungal, plant and animal sources could be considered as antituberculosis leads as most of these peptides are associated with dual advantages of having both bactericidal activity towards Mtb as well as immuno-regulatory property. Some of the peptides possess the additional advantage of interacting synergistically with antituberculosis medications too, thereby increasing their efficiency, underscoring the vigour of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as best possible alternative therapeutic candidates or adjuvants in TB treatment. Albeit the beneficiary features of these peptides, few obstacles allied with them like cytotoxicity and proteolytic degradation are matter of concerns too. In this review, we have focused on structural hallmarks, targeting mechanisms and specific structural aspects contributing to antimycobacterial activity and discovered natural and synthetic antimycobacterial peptides along with their sources, anti-TB, immuno-regulatory properties, merits and demerits and possible delivery methods of AMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preethi A R
- Medical & Biological Computing Laboratory, School of Bio-Sciences & Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore-632014, India
- Department of Biotechnology, SBST, VIT, Vellore-632014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Anand Anbarasu
- Medical & Biological Computing Laboratory, School of Bio-Sciences & Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore-632014, India.
- Department of Biotechnology, SBST, VIT, Vellore-632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
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17
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Kundlacz T, Schmidt C. Deciphering Solution and Gas-Phase Interactions between Peptides and Lipids by Native Mass Spectrometry. Anal Chem 2023; 95:17292-17299. [PMID: 37956985 PMCID: PMC10688224 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c03428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Many biological processes depend on the interactions between proteins and lipids. Accordingly, the analysis of protein-lipid complexes has become increasingly important. Native mass spectrometry is often used to identify and characterize specific protein-lipid interactions. However, it requires the transfer of the analytes into the gas phase, where electrostatic interactions are enhanced and hydrophobic interactions do not exist. Accordingly, the question remains whether interactions that are observed in the gas phase accurately reflect interactions that are formed in solution. Here, we systematically explore noncovalent interactions between the antimicrobial peptide LL-37 and glycerophospholipids containing different headgroups or varying in fatty acyl chain length. We observe differences in peak intensities for different peptide-lipid complexes, as well as their relative binding strength in the gas phase. Accordingly, we found that ion intensities and gas-phase stability correlate well for complexes formed by electrostatic interactions. Probing hydrophobic interactions by varying the length of fatty acyl chains, we detected differences in ion intensities based on hydrophobic interactions formed in solution. The relative binding strength of these peptide-lipid complexes revealed only minor differences originating from van der Waals interactions and different binding modes of lipid headgroups in solution. In summary, our results demonstrate that hydrophobic interactions are reflected by ion intensities, while electrostatic interactions, including van der Waals interactions, determine the gas-phase stability of complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Til Kundlacz
- Interdisciplinary
Research Centre HALOmem, Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology,
Charles Tanford Protein Centre, Martin Luther
University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Str. 3a, 06120 Halle, Germany
- Institute
of Chemistry, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, von-Danckelmann-Platz 4, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Carla Schmidt
- Interdisciplinary
Research Centre HALOmem, Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology,
Charles Tanford Protein Centre, Martin Luther
University Halle-Wittenberg, Kurt-Mothes-Str. 3a, 06120 Halle, Germany
- Department
of Chemistry—Biochemistry, Johannes
Gutenberg University Mainz, Biocenter II, Hanns-Dieter-Hüsch-Weg 17, 55128 Mainz, Germany
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18
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Liu Q, Wang L, He D, Wu Y, Liu X, Yang Y, Chen Z, Dong Z, Luo Y, Song Y. Application Value of Antimicrobial Peptides in Gastrointestinal Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16718. [PMID: 38069041 PMCID: PMC10706433 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal cancer is a common clinical malignant tumor disease that seriously endangers human health and lacks effective treatment methods. As part of the innate immune defense of many organisms, antimicrobial peptides not only have broad-spectrum antibacterial activity but also can specifically kill tumor cells. The positive charge of antimicrobial peptides under neutral conditions determines their high selectivity to tumor cells. In addition, antimicrobial peptides also have unique anticancer mechanisms, such as inducing apoptosis, autophagy, cell cycle arrest, membrane destruction, and inhibition of metastasis, which highlights the low drug resistance and high specificity of antimicrobial peptides. In this review, we summarize the related studies on antimicrobial peptides in the treatment of digestive tract tumors, mainly oral cancer, esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, and colorectal cancer. This paper describes the therapeutic advantages of antimicrobial peptides due to their unique anticancer mechanisms. The length, net charge, and secondary structure of antimicrobial peptides can be modified by design or modification to further enhance their anticancer effects. In summary, as an emerging cancer treatment drug, antimicrobial peptides need to be further studied to realize their application in gastrointestinal cancer diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Lei Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Dongxia He
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yuewei Wu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Xian Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yahan Yang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Zhizhi Chen
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Zhan Dong
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Ying Luo
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yuzhu Song
- College of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Medical College, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
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19
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Lenin KLD, Antony SP. In silico molecular and functional characterization of a dual function antimicrobial peptide, hepcidin (GIFT-Hep), isolated from genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT, Oreochromis niloticus). J Genet Eng Biotechnol 2023; 21:130. [PMID: 37987875 PMCID: PMC10663414 DOI: 10.1186/s43141-023-00579-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), innate immune response molecules in organisms, are also known for their dual functionality, exemplified by hepcidin-an immunomodulator and iron regulator. Identifying and studying various AMPs from fish species can provide valuable insights into the immune profiles of aquaculturally significant fish, which can be made use of in its culture. RESULTS Hepcidin, a dual-function antimicrobial peptide, was isolated from the gill tissue of Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT-Hep). GIFT-Hep consists of a 90 amino acid pre-propeptide with a 24-mer signal, a 40-mer propeptide, and a 26-mer mature peptide region. The mature peptide had a molecular weight of 3015.61 Da, a theoretical pI of 8.78, a net charge of +4.25, and a protein-binding potential of 2.06 kcal/mol. Four disulfide bonds were formed by eight cysteine residues in the mature region. The presence of positively charged arginine residues renders the peptide 50% hydrophobic. Molecular analysis of GIFT-Hep revealed the presence of a furin propeptide convertase motif, RX(K/R)R, which facilitates trimming of the peptide to yield the mature GIFT-Hep. The hypothetical iron regulatory sequence, QSHLSL, was also identified in the mature peptide. In silico predictions about the characteristics of GIFT-Hep, such as charge, hydrophobicity, high surface accessibility, transmembrane helical regions, hydrophobic faces, hot spots, and cell-penetrating properties, suggest that the peptide functions as an iron regulatory antimicrobial agent. CONCLUSIONS This study reports a hepcidin antimicrobial peptide with both HAMP1 and HAMP2 properties isolated from genetically improved farmed tilapia, and further evaluation of the properties will prove the feasibility of GIFT-Hep being used as a therapeutant in aquaculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- K L Dhanya Lenin
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology and Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi, Kerala, 682016, India
| | - Swapna P Antony
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology and Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi, Kerala, 682016, India.
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20
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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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21
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Shen H, Zhang N, Kong X, Wang N, Hu HG, Cong W, Liu C. Benzyl stapled modification and anticancer activity of antimicrobial peptide A4K14-Citropin 1.1. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2023; 96:129499. [PMID: 37804993 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2023.129499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
A4K14-Citropin 1.1 (GLFAVIKKVASVIKGL-NH2) is a derived antimicrobial peptide (AMP) with a more stable α-helical structure at the C-terminal compared to prototype Citropin 1.1 which was obtained from glandular skin secretions of Australian freetail lizards. In a previous report, A4K14-Citropin 1.1 has been considered as an anti-cancer lead compound. However, linear peptides are difficult to maintain stable secondary structure, resulted in poor pharmacokinetic properties. In this study, we designed and synthesized a series of benzyl-stapled derivatives of A4K14-Citropin 1.1. And their physical and chemical properties, as well as biological activity, were both explored. The result showed that AC-CCSP-2-o and AC-CCSP-3-o exhibited a higher degree of helicity and greater anti-cancer activity compared with the prototype peptide. Besides, there was no significant difference in the hemolytic effect between the stapled peptides and the prototype peptide. AC-CCSP-2-o and AC-CCSP-3-o could serve as promising anti-cancer lead compounds for the novel anti-cancer drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaxing Shen
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Xianglong Kong
- School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, PR. China
| | - Nan Wang
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Hong-Gang Hu
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Wei Cong
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China.
| | - Chao Liu
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China.
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22
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Kannoth S, Ali N, Prasanth GK, Arvind K, Mohany M, Hembrom PS, Sadanandan S, Vasu DA, Grace T. Transcriptome analysis of Corvus splendens reveals a repertoire of antimicrobial peptides. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18728. [PMID: 37907616 PMCID: PMC10618271 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45875-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Multidrug resistance has become a global health problem associated with high morbidity and mortality. Antimicrobial peptides have been acknowledged as potential leads for prospective anti-infectives. Owing to their scavenging lifestyle, Corvus splendens is thought to have developed robust immunity to pathogens found in their diet, implying that they have evolved mechanisms to resist infection. In the current study, the transcriptome of C. splendens was sequenced, and de novo assembled to identify the presence of antimicrobial peptide genes. 72.09 million high-quality clean reads were obtained which were then de novo assembled into 3,43,503 transcripts and 74,958 unigenes. About 37,559 unigenes were successfully annotated using SwissProt, Pfam, GO, and KEGG databases. A search against APD3, CAMPR3 and LAMP databases identified 63 AMP candidates belonging to more than 20 diverse families and functional classes. mRNA of AvBD-2, AvBD-13 and CATH-2 were found to be differentially expressed between the three tested crows as well as among the tissues. We also characterized Corvus Cathelicidin 2 (CATH-2) to gain knowledge of its antimicrobial mechanisms. The CD spectroscopy of synthesized mature Corvus CATH-2 peptide displayed an amphipathic α-helical structure. Though the synthetic CATH-2 caused hemolysis of human RBC, it also exhibited antimicrobial activity against E. coli, S. aureus, and B. cereus. Docking simulation results revealed that this peptide could bind to the LPS binding site of MD-2, which may prevent LPS from entering the MD-2 binding pocket, and trigger TLR4 signaling pathway. The Corvus CATH-2 characterized in this study could aid in the development of novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Kannoth
- Department of Genomic Science, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, Kerala, India
| | - Nemat Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ganesh K Prasanth
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, Kerala, India
| | - Kumar Arvind
- Neurogenetics Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorder and Stroke, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Mohamed Mohany
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Preety Sweta Hembrom
- Department of Genomic Science, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, Kerala, India
| | - Shemmy Sadanandan
- Department of Genomic Science, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, Kerala, India
| | - Deepa Azhchath Vasu
- Department of Genomic Science, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, Kerala, India
| | - Tony Grace
- Department of Genomic Science, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, Kerala, India.
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23
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Sweany RR, Cary JW, Jaynes JM, Rajasekaran K. Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Activity of Synthetic Peptides GV185 and GV187. PLANT DISEASE 2023; 107:3211-3221. [PMID: 36947838 DOI: 10.1094/pdis-11-22-2572-re] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Optimizing synthetic antimicrobial peptides for safe and enhanced activity against fungal and bacterial pathogens is useful for genetic engineering of plants for resistance to plant pathogens and their associated mycotoxins. Nine synthetic peptides modeled after lytic peptides tachyplesin 1, D4E1 from cecropin A, and protegrin 1 were added to germinated spores of fungal species Aspergillus flavus, Rhizopus stolonifer, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum, F. verticillioides, F. graminearum, Claviceps purpurea, Verticillium dahliae, and Thielaviopsis basicola and bacterial cultures of Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci and Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris at different doses and inhibitory dose response curves, and were modeled to assess antimicrobial activity. Peptides GV185 and GV187, modified from tachyplesin 1, had superior abilities to inhibit fungal and bacterial growth (50% inhibitory concentrations [IC50] ranging from 0.1 to 8.7 µM). R. stolonifer (IC50 = 8.1 µM), A. flavus (IC50 = 3.1 µM), and F. graminearum (IC50 = 2.2 µM) were less inhibited by GV185 and GV187 than all the remaining fungi (IC50 = 1.4 µM) and bacteria (IC50 = 0.1 µM). Of the remaining peptides, GV193, GV195, and GV196 (IC50 range of 0.9 to 6.6 µM) inhibited fungal growth of A. flavus, F. verticillioides, and F. graminearum less than GV185 and GV187 (IC50 range of 0.8 to 3.9 µM), followed by GV197 (IC50 range of 0.8 to 9.1 µM), whereas GV190 and GV192 inhibited poorly (IC50 range of 28.2 to 36.6 µM and 15.5 to 19.4 µM, respectively) and GV198 stimulated growth. GV185 and GV187 had slightly weaker hydrophobic and cationic residues than other tachyplesin 1 modified peptides but still had unexpectedly high lytic activity. Germinated fungal spores of R. stolonifer and F. graminearum exposed to these two peptides and D4E1 and AGM182 appeared wrinkled, with perforations near potential cytoplasmic leakage, which provided evidence of plasma membrane and cell wall lysis. We conclude that peptides GV185 and GV187 are promising candidates for genetic engineering of crops for resistance to plant-pathogenic bacteria and fungi, including A. flavus and aflatoxin contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca R Sweany
- Food and Feed Safety Research Unit, Southern Regional Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, New Orleans, LA 70124
| | - Jeffrey W Cary
- Food and Feed Safety Research Unit, Southern Regional Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, New Orleans, LA 70124
| | - Jesse M Jaynes
- Genvor, LLC, Dallas, TX 75240
- College of Agriculture, Environment and Nutrition Sciences, and College of Arts and Sciences, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL 36088
| | - Kanniah Rajasekaran
- Food and Feed Safety Research Unit, Southern Regional Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, New Orleans, LA 70124
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24
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Li H, Niu J, Wang X, Niu M, Liao C. The Contribution of Antimicrobial Peptides to Immune Cell Function: A Review of Recent Advances. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2278. [PMID: 37765247 PMCID: PMC10535326 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092278] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of novel antimicrobial agents to replace antibiotics has become urgent due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant microorganisms. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), widely distributed in all kingdoms of life, present strong antimicrobial activity against a variety of bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses. The potential of AMPs as new alternatives to antibiotics has gradually attracted considerable interest. In addition, AMPs exhibit strong anticancer potential as well as anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity. Many studies have provided evidence that AMPs can recruit and activate immune cells, controlling inflammation. This review highlights the scientific literature focusing on evidence for the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of different AMPs in immune cells, including macrophages, monocytes, lymphocytes, mast cells, dendritic cells, neutrophils, and eosinophils. A variety of immunomodulatory characteristics, including the abilities to activate and differentiate immune cells, change the content and expression of inflammatory mediators, and regulate specific cellular functions and inflammation-related signaling pathways, are summarized and discussed in detail. This comprehensive review contributes to a better understanding of the role of AMPs in the regulation of the immune system and provides a reference for the use of AMPs as novel anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of various inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanxiao Li
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Anmal Disease Prevention and Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China; (H.L.); (J.N.)
| | - Junhui Niu
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Anmal Disease Prevention and Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China; (H.L.); (J.N.)
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- College of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China;
| | - Mingfu Niu
- College of Food and Bioengineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China;
| | - Chengshui Liao
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Anmal Disease Prevention and Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China; (H.L.); (J.N.)
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25
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Shao H, Zhou J, Lin X, Zhou Y, Xue Y, Hong W, Lin X, Jia X, Fan Y. Bio-inspired peptide-conjugated liposomes for enhanced planktonic bacteria killing and biofilm eradication. Biomaterials 2023; 300:122183. [PMID: 37302278 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Developing new antimicrobial agents has become an urgent task to address the increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant pathogens and the emergence of biofilms. Cationic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been regarded as promising candidates due to their unique non-specific membrane rupture mechanism. However, a series of problems with the peptides hindered their practical application due to their high toxicity and low bioactivity and stability. Here, inspired by broadening the application of cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), we selected five different sequences of cationic peptides which are considered as both CPPs and AMPs, and developed a biomimetic strategy to construct cationic peptide-conjugated liposomes with the virus-like structure for both enhancements of antibacterial efficacy and biosafety. The correlation between available peptide density/peptide variety and antimicrobial capabilities was evaluated from quantitative perspectives. Computational simulation and experimental investigations assisted to identify the optimal peptide-conjugated liposomes and revealed that the designed system provides high charge density for enhanced anionic bacterial membrane binding capability without compromised cytotoxicity, being capable of enhanced antibacterial efficacy of bacteria/biofilm of clinically important pathogens. The bio-inspired design has shown enhanced therapeutic efficiency of peptides and may promote the development of next-generation antimicrobials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Shao
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, And with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Jin Zhou
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, And with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China.
| | - Xiaoqian Lin
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, And with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, And with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yumeng Xue
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, And with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Weili Hong
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, And with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Xubo Lin
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, And with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Xiaoling Jia
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, And with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China.
| | - Yubo Fan
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, And with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China.
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26
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Ioannou P, Baliou S, Kofteridis DP. Antimicrobial Peptides in Infectious Diseases and Beyond-A Narrative Review. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1651. [PMID: 37629508 PMCID: PMC10455936 DOI: 10.3390/life13081651] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite recent medical research and clinical practice developments, the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) significantly limits therapeutics for infectious diseases. Thus, novel treatments for infectious diseases, especially in this era of increasing AMR, are urgently needed. There is ongoing research on non-classical therapies for infectious diseases utilizing alternative antimicrobial mechanisms to fight pathogens, such as bacteriophages or antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). AMPs are evolutionarily conserved molecules naturally produced by several organisms, such as plants, insects, marine organisms, and mammals, aiming to protect the host by fighting pathogenic microorganisms. There is ongoing research regarding developing AMPs for clinical use in infectious diseases. Moreover, AMPs have several other non-medical applications in the food industry, such as preservatives, animal husbandry, plant protection, and aquaculture. This review focuses on AMPs, their origins, biology, structure, mechanisms of action, non-medical applications, and clinical applications in infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Ioannou
- School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Stella Baliou
- Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Diamantis P. Kofteridis
- School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece
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27
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Patyra E, Kwiatek K. Insect Meals and Insect Antimicrobial Peptides as an Alternative for Antibiotics and Growth Promoters in Livestock Production. Pathogens 2023; 12:854. [PMID: 37375544 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12060854] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The extensive use of antibiotics in animal production has led to the development of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms and the search for alternative antimicrobial agents in animal production. One such compound may be antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which are characterized by, among others, a wide range of biocidal activity. According to scientific data, insects produce the largest number of antimicrobial peptides, and the changing EU legislation has allowed processed animal protein derived from insects to be used in feed for farm animals, which, in addition to a protein supplement, may prove to be an alternative to antibiotics and antibiotic growth promoters due to their documented beneficial impact on livestock health. In animals that were fed feeds with the addition of insect meals, changes in their intestinal microbiota, strengthened immunity, and increased antibacterial activity were confirmed to be positive effects obtained thanks to the insect diet. This paper reviews the literature on sources of antibacterial peptides and the mechanism of action of these compounds, with particular emphasis on insect antibacterial peptides and their potential impact on animal health, and legal regulations related to the use of insect meals in animal nutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewelina Patyra
- Department of Hygiene of Animal Feedingstuffs, National Veterinary Research Institute, Partyzantów 57 Avenue, 24-100 Puławy, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Kwiatek
- Department of Hygiene of Animal Feedingstuffs, National Veterinary Research Institute, Partyzantów 57 Avenue, 24-100 Puławy, Poland
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28
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Shahmiri M, Bleackley MR, Dawson CS, van der Weerden NL, Anderson MA, Mechler A. Membrane binding properties of plant defensins. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2023; 209:113618. [PMID: 36828099 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2023.113618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The membrane interaction characteristics of five antifungal plant defensin peptides: NaD1, and the related HXP4 and L5, as well as NaD2 and the related ZmD32 were studied. These peptides were chosen to cover a broad range of cationic charges with little structural variations, allowing for assessment of the role of charge in their membrane interactions. Membrane permeabilizing activity against C. albicans was confirmed and quantified for benchmarking purposes. Viscoelastic characteristics of the membrane interactions were studied in typical neutral and charged model membranes using quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D. Frequency-dissipation fingerprinting analysis of the QCM-D results revealed that all of the peptides were able to bind to all studied model membranes albeit with slightly different viscoelastic character for each membrane type. However, characteristic disruption patterns were not observed suggesting that the membrane disrupting activity of these defensins is mostly specific to fungal membranes, and that increasing the peptide charge does not enhance their action. The results also show that the presence of specific sterols has a profound effect on the ability of the peptides to disrupt the membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Shahmiri
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic, 3086, Australia; Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine (SATiM), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mark R Bleackley
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic, 3086, Australia
| | - Charlotte S Dawson
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic, 3086, Australia
| | - Nicole L van der Weerden
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic, 3086, Australia
| | - Marilyn A Anderson
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic, 3086, Australia
| | - Adam Mechler
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic, 3086, Australia.
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29
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van Dijk A, Guabiraba R, Bailleul G, Schouler C, Haagsman HP, Lalmanach AC. Evolutionary diversification of defensins and cathelicidins in birds and primates. Mol Immunol 2023; 157:53-69. [PMID: 36996595 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2023.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Divergent evolution for more than 310 million years has resulted in an avian immune system that is complex and more compact than that of primates, sharing much of its structure and functions. Not surprisingly, well conserved ancient host defense molecules, such as defensins and cathelicidins, have diversified over time. In this review, we describe how evolution influenced the host defense peptides repertoire, its distribution, and the relationship between structure and biological functions. Marked features of primate and avian HDPs are linked to species-specific characteristics, biological requirements, and environmental challenge.
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30
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You Y, Liu H, Zhu Y, Zheng H. Rational design of stapled antimicrobial peptides. Amino Acids 2023; 55:421-442. [PMID: 36781451 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-023-03245-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
The global increase in antimicrobial drug resistance has dramatically reduced the effectiveness of traditional antibiotics. Structurally diverse antibiotics are urgently needed to combat multiple-resistant bacterial infections. As part of innate immunity, antimicrobial peptides have been recognized as the most promising candidates because they comprise diverse sequences and mechanisms of action and have a relatively low induction rate of resistance. However, because of their low chemical stability, susceptibility to proteases, and high hemolytic effect, their usage is subject to many restrictions. Chemical modifications such as D-amino acid substitution, cyclization, and unnatural amino acid modification have been used to improve the stability of antimicrobial peptides for decades. Among them, a side-chain covalent bridge modification, the so-called stapled peptide, has attracted much attention. The stapled side-chain bridge stabilizes the secondary structure, induces protease resistance, and increases cell penetration and biological activity. Recent progress in computer-aided drug design and artificial intelligence methods has also been used in the design of stapled antimicrobial peptides and has led to the successful discovery of many prospective peptides. This article reviews the possible structure-activity relationships of stapled antimicrobial peptides, the physicochemical properties that influence their activity (such as net charge, hydrophobicity, helicity, and dipole moment), and computer-aided methods of stapled peptide design. Antimicrobial peptides under clinical trial: Pexiganan (NCT01594762, 2012-05-07). Omiganan (NCT02576847, 2015-10-13).
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Affiliation(s)
- YuHao You
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - HongYu Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - YouZhuo Zhu
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Heng Zheng
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China.
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Jung B, Yun H, Min HJ, Yang S, Shin SY, Lee CW. Discovery of structural and functional transition sites for membrane-penetrating activity of sheep myeloid antimicrobial peptide-18. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1238. [PMID: 36690720 PMCID: PMC9871035 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28386-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cathelicidin antimicrobial peptides have an extended and/or unstructured conformation in aqueous solutions but fold into ordered conformations, such as the α-helical structure, when interacting with cellular membranes. These structural transitions can be directly correlated to their antimicrobial activity and its underlying mechanisms. SMAP-18, the N-terminal segment (residues 1-18) of sheep cathelicidin (SMAP-29), is known to kill microorganisms by translocating across membranes and interacting with their nucleic acids. The amino acid sequence of SMAP-18 contains three Gly residues (at positions 2, 7, and 13) that significantly affect the flexibility of its peptide structure. This study investigated the role of Gly residues in the structure, membrane interaction, membrane translocation, and antimicrobial mechanisms of SMAP-18. Five analogs were designed and synthesized through Gly → Ala substitution (i.e., G2A, G7A, G13A, G7,13A, and G2,7,13A); these substitutions altered the helical content of SMAP-18 peptides. We found that G7,13A and G2,7,13A changed their mode of action, with circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance studies revealing that these analogs changed the structure of SMAP-18 from a random coil to an α-helical structure. The results of this experiment suggest that the Gly residues at positions 7 and 13 in SMAP-18 are the structural and functional determinants that control its three-dimensional structure, strain-specific activity, and antimicrobial mechanism of action. These results provide valuable information for the design of novel peptide-based antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bomi Jung
- Department of Chemistry, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyosuk Yun
- Department of Chemistry, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jung Min
- Department of Cosmetic Science, Gwangju Women's University, Gwangju, 62396, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungtae Yang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452, Republic of Korea
| | - Song Yub Shin
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452, Republic of Korea.
| | - Chul Won Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea.
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32
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López-Giraldo E, Carrillo E, Titaux-Delgado G, Cano-Sánchez P, Colorado A, Possani LD, Río-Portilla FD. Structural and functional studies of scorpine: A channel blocker and cytolytic peptide. Toxicon 2023; 222:106985. [PMID: 36436588 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.106985] [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: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Scorpine is an antimicrobial and antimalarial peptide isolated from Pandinus imperator scorpion venom. As there are few functional and structural studies reported on scorpine-like peptides, we investigated the recombinant truncated N- and C-terminal domains as well as complete scorpine using biological assays and determined the N- and C-terminal structures using solution nuclear magnetic resonance. The study was conducted using recombinant N- and C-terminal peptides and complete scorpine expressed in Escherichia coli. The results showed that N-scorpine presented a random coil structure in water and adopted α-helical folding in the presence of 50% trifluoroethanol (TFE). C-scorpine contains three disulfide bonds with two structural domains: an unstructured N-terminal domain in water that can form a typical secondary alpha-helix structure in 50% TFE and a C-terminal domain with the CS-αβ motif. Our findings demonstrate cytolytic activity associated with C-scorpine, N-scorpine, and scorpine, as well as channel blocking activity associated with the C-scorpine domain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elisa Carrillo
- Center for Membrane Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Alland Colorado
- Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CdMx, Mexico
| | - Lourival D Possani
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
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33
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Slingerland C, Wesseling CMJ, Innocenti P, Westphal KGC, Masereeuw R, Martin NI. Synthesis and Evaluation of Polymyxins Bearing Reductively Labile Disulfide-Linked Lipids. J Med Chem 2022; 65:15878-15892. [PMID: 36399613 PMCID: PMC9743094 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Polymyxins are a class of lipopeptide anti-infective agents with potent and specific activity against Gram-negative bacteria. While toxicity concerns associated with polymyxin B and E (colistin) have historically limited their clinical application, today they are increasingly used as last-resort antibiotics given the rise of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens. The adverse side effects of polymyxins are well known, particularly as related to their nephrotoxicity. Here, we describe the synthesis and evaluation of a novel series of polymyxin analogues, aimed at reducing their nephrotoxic effects. Using a semisynthetic approach, we explored modifications of the exocyclic part of the polymyxin scaffold, namely, the terminal amino acid and lipophilic tail. By incorporating a reductively labile disulfide linkage in the lipid tail, we obtained novel polymyxins that exhibit potent antibacterial activity on par with polymyxin B but with reduced toxicity toward human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelis
J. Slingerland
- Biological
Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Charlotte M. J. Wesseling
- Biological
Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Paolo Innocenti
- Biological
Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Koen G. C. Westphal
- Division
of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rosalinde Masereeuw
- Division
of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nathaniel I. Martin
- Biological
Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Sylviusweg 72, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands,
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34
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Iram D, Kindarle UA, Sansi MS, Meena S, Puniya AK, Vij S. Peptidomics-based identification of an antimicrobial peptide derived from goat milk fermented by Lactobacillus rhamnosus (C25). J Food Biochem 2022; 46:e14450. [PMID: 36226982 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.14450] [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: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are emerging as promising novel drug applicants. In the present study, goat milk was fermented using Lactobacillus rhamnosus C25 to generate bioactive peptides (BAPs). The peptide fractions generated were separated using ultrafiltration membranes with molecular weight cut-offs of 3, 5, and 10 kDa, and their antimicrobial activity toward Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria was investigated. Isolated AMPs were characterized using RP-HPLC and identified by LC-MS/MS. A total of 569 sequences of peptides were identified by mass spectrometry. Out of the 569, 36 were predicted as AMPs, 21 were predicted as cationic, and out of 21, 6 AMPs were helical peptides. In silico analysis indicated that the majority of peptides were antimicrobial and cationic in nature, an important factor for peptide interaction with the negative charge membrane of bacteria. The results showed that the peptides of <5 kDa exhibited maximum antibacterial activity against E. faecalis, E. coli, and S. typhi. Further, molecular docking was used to evaluate the potent MurD ligase inhibitors. On the basis of ligand binding energy, six predicted AMPs were selected and then analyzed by AutoDock tools. Among the six AMPs, peptides IGHFKLIFSLLRV (-7.5 kcal/mol) and KSFCPAPVAPPPPT (-7.6 kcal/mol), were predicted as a high-potent antimicrobial. Based on these findings, in silico investigations reveal that proteins of goat milk are a potential source of AMPs. This is for the first time that the antimicrobial peptides produced by Lactobacillus rhamnosus (C25) fermentation of goat milk have been identified via LC-MS/MS and predicted as AMPs, cationic charges, helical structure in nature, and potent MurD ligase inhibitors. These peptides can be synthesized and improved for use as antimicrobial agents. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Goat milk is considered a high-quality source of milk protein. According to this study, goat milk protein is a potential source of AMPs, Fermentation can yield goat milk-derived peptides with a broad antibacterial activity spectrum at a low cost. The approach described here could be beneficial in that the significant AMPs can be synthesized and used in the pharmaceutical and food industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daraksha Iram
- Antimicrobial Peptides, Biofunctional Probiotics & Peptidomics Laboratory, Dairy Microbiology Division, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Uday Arun Kindarle
- Antimicrobial Peptides, Biofunctional Probiotics & Peptidomics Laboratory, Dairy Microbiology Division, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Manish Singh Sansi
- Biofunctional Peptidomics & Metabolic Syndrome Laboratory, Animal Biochemistry Division, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Sunita Meena
- Biofunctional Peptidomics & Metabolic Syndrome Laboratory, Animal Biochemistry Division, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Anil Kumar Puniya
- Anaerobic Microbial Fermentation Laboratory, Dairy Microbiology Division, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Shilpa Vij
- Antimicrobial Peptides, Biofunctional Probiotics & Peptidomics Laboratory, Dairy Microbiology Division, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
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35
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Sun L, Wang S, Tian F, Zhu H, Dai L. Organizations of melittin peptides after spontaneous penetration into cell membranes. Biophys J 2022; 121:4368-4381. [PMID: 36199252 PMCID: PMC9703044 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2022.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The antimicrobial peptide, melittin, is a potential next-generation antibiotic because melittin can spontaneously form pores in bacterial cell membranes and cause cytoplasm leakage. However, the organizations of melittin peptides in cell membranes remain elusive, which impedes the understanding of the poration mechanism. In this work, we use coarse-grained and all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to investigate the organizations of melittin peptides during and after spontaneous penetration into DPPC/POPG lipid bilayers. We find that the peptides in lipid bilayers adopt either a transmembrane conformation or a U-shaped conformation, which are referred to as T- and U-peptides, respectively. Several U-peptides and/or T-peptides aggregate to form stable pores. We analyze a T-pore consisting of four T-peptides and a U-pore consisting of three U-peptides and one T-peptide. In both pores, peptides are organized in a manner such that polar residues face inward and hydrophobic residues face outward, which stabilizes the pores and produces water channels. Compared with the U-pore, the T-pore has lower energy, larger pore diameter, and higher permeability. However, the T-pore occurs less frequently than the U-pore in our simulations, probably because the formation of the T-pore is kinetically slower than the U-pore. The stability and permeability of both pores are confirmed by 300 ns all-atom MD simulations. The peptide organizations obtained in this work should deepen the understanding of the stability, poration mechanism, and permeability of melittin, and facilitate the optimization of melittin to enhance the antibacterial ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Sun
- Department of Physics, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Simin Wang
- Department of Physics, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Fujia Tian
- Department of Physics, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Haoqi Zhu
- Department of Physics, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Liang Dai
- Department of Physics, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
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36
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Fa K, Liu H, Li Z, Gong H, Petkov J, Ren Lu J. Acyl Chain Length Tuning Improves Antimicrobial Potency and Biocompatibility of Short Designed Lipopeptides. J Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 630:911-923. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.10.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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37
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Naiel MAE, Abd El-Hack ME, Patra AK. The Role of Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs) in Aquaculture Farming. ANTIBIOTIC ALTERNATIVES IN POULTRY AND FISH FEED 2022:215-234. [DOI: 10.2174/9789815049015122010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are the vital constituents that stimulate the
innate immune defense system against pathogens and perform several biological
activities, which provide the first defensive line against infectious diseases. Owing to
their unique structure, they can be utilized as a therapeutic strategy for infectious
diseases in fishes. Several kinds of AMPs are reported in fishes with broad-spectrum
antimicrobial properties. Besides, the bacterial cells cannot develop resistance strains
against these cationic compounds with low molecular weight. Thus, AMPs may be
considered an alternative to antibiotics to prevent or control infectious diseases in
aquaculture. It is essential to provide sufficient knowledge about the mode of action of
AMPs against fish pathogenic agents and their future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Amlan Kumar Patra
- West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences,Department of Animal Nutrition,Kolkata,India
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38
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The Antimicrobial Peptide 1018-K6 Interacts Distinctly with Eukaryotic and Bacterial Membranes, the Basis of Its Specificity and Bactericidal Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012392. [PMID: 36293249 PMCID: PMC9603936 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Since penicillin was discovered, antibiotics have been critical in the fight against infections. However, antibiotic misuse has led to drug resistance, which now constitutes a serious health problem. In this context, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) constitute a natural group of short proteins, varying in structure and length, that act against certain types of bacterial pathogens. The antimicrobial peptide 1018-K6 (VRLIVKVRIWRR- NH2) has significant bactericidal and antibiofilm activity against Listeria monocytogenes isolates, and against different strains and serotypes of Salmonella. Here, the mechanism of action of 1018-K6 was explored further to understand the peptide-membrane interactions relevant to its activity, and to define their determinants. We combined studies with model synthetic membranes (liposomes) and model biological membranes, assessing the absorption maximum and the quenching of 1018-K6 fluorescence in aqueous and lipid environments, the self-quenching of carboxyfluorescein, as well as performing lipid sedimentation assays. The data obtained reflect the differential interactions of the 1018-K6 peptide with eukaryotic and prokaryotic membranes, and the specific interactions and mechanisms of action in the three prokaryotic species studied: Salmonella Typhimurium2GN, Escherichia coli3GN, and Staphylococcus aureus3GP. The AMP 1018-K6 is a candidate to prevent (food preservation) or treat (antibiotic use) infections caused by certain pathogenic bacteria, especially some that are resistant to current antibiotics.
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39
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Anticancer peptides mechanisms, simple and complex. Chem Biol Interact 2022; 368:110194. [PMID: 36195187 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Peptide therapy has started since 1920s with the advent of insulin application, and now it has emerged as a new approach in treatment of diseases including cancer. Using anti-cancer peptides (ACPs) is a promising way of cancer therapy as ACPs are continuing to be approved and arrived at major pharmaceutical markets. Traditional cancer treatments face different problems like intensive adverse effects to patient's body, cell resistance to conventional chemical drugs and in some worse cases the occurrence of cell multidrug resistance (MDR) of cancerous tissues against chemotherapy. On the other hand, there are some benefits conceived for peptides usage in treatment of diseases specifically cancer, as these compounds present favorable characteristics such as smaller size, high activity, low immunogenicity, good biocompatibility in vivo, convenient and rapid way of synthesis, amenable to sequence modification and revision and there is no limitation for the type of cargo they carry. It is possible to achieve an optimum molecular and functional structure of peptides based on previous experience and bank of peptide motif data which may result in novel peptide design. Bioactive peptides are able to form pores in cell membrane and induce necrosis or apoptosis of abnormal cells. Moreover, recent researches have focused on the tumor recognizing peptide motifs with the ability to permeate to cancerous cells with the aim of cancer treatment at earlier stages. In this strategy the most important factors for addressing cancer are choosing peptides with easy accessibility to tumor cell without cytotoxicity effect towards normal cells. The peptides must also meet acceptable pharmacokinetic requirements. In this review, the characteristics of peptides and cancer cells are discussed. The various mechanisms of peptides' action proposed against cancer cells make the next part of discussion. It will be followed by giving information on peptides application, various methods of peptide designing along with introducing various databases. Future aspects of peptides for employing in area of cancer treatment come as conclusion at the end.
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40
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Antibacterial and Anticancer Activities of Pleurocidin-Amide, a Potent Marine Antimicrobial Peptide Derived from Winter Flounder, Pleuronectes americanus. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20080519. [PMID: 36005521 PMCID: PMC9409841 DOI: 10.3390/md20080519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The extensive use of conventional antibiotics has led to the growing emergence of many resistant strains of pathogenic bacteria. Evidence suggests that cationic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have the greatest potential to serve as traditional antibiotic substitutes. Recent studies have also reported that certain AMPs have selective toxicity toward various types of cancer cells. The electrostatic attraction between the negatively charged membrane components and AMPs is believed to play a crucial role in the disruption of bacterial and cancer cell membranes. In the current study, we used a potent AMP called Pleurocidin (Ple) derived from winter flounder Pleuronectes americanus and its C-terminal-amidated derivative Pleurocidin-amide (Ple-a), and evaluated their antibacterial and anticancer activities. Our results indicated that both Ple and Ple-a exhibited significant antibacterial activity against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, especially marine pathogens, with MIC values ranging from 0.25 to 32 μg/mL. These peptides are also potent against several multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial strains, with MIC values ranging from 2 to 256 μg/mL. When used in combination with certain antibiotics, they exhibited a synergistic effect against MDR E. coli. Ple and Ple-a also showed notable cytotoxicity toward various cancer cell lines, with IC50 values ranging from 11 to 340 μM, while normal mouse fibroblast 3T3 cells were less susceptible to these peptides. Ple-a was then selected to study its anticancer mechanism toward A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells. Western blot analysis and confocal microscopy showed that Ple-a could inhibit autophagy of A549 cells, and induce apoptosis 48 h after treatment. Our findings provided support for the future application of Ple-a as potential therapeutic agent for bacterial infections and cancer treatment.
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41
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Targeted Modification and Structure-Activity Study of GL-29, an Analogue of the Antimicrobial Peptide Palustrin-2ISb. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11081048. [PMID: 36009917 PMCID: PMC9405102 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11081048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are considered as promising antimicrobial agents due to their potent bioactivity. Palustrin-2 peptides were previously found to exhibit broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity with low haemolytic activity. Therefore, GL-29 was used as a template for further modification and study. Firstly, the truncated analogue, GL-22, was designed to examine the function of the ‘Rana box’, which was confirmed to have no impact on antimicrobial activity. The results of antimicrobial activity assessment against seven microorganisms demonstrated GL-22 to have a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, but weak potency against Candida albicans (C. albicans). These data were similar to those of GL-29, but GL-22 showed much lower haemolysis and lower cytotoxicity against HaCaT cells. Moreover, GL-22 exhibited potent in vivo activity at 4 × MIC against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus)-infected larvae. Several short analogues, from the C-terminus and N-terminus of GL-22, were modified to identify the shortest functional motif. However, the results demonstrated that the shorter peptides did not exhibit potent antimicrobial activity, and the factors that affect the bioactive potency of these short analogues need to be further studied.
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42
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Lv S, Wang J, You R, Liu S, Ding Y, Hadianamrei R, Tomeh MA, Pan F, Cai Z, Zhao X. Highly selective performance of rationally designed antimicrobial peptides based on ponericin-W1. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:4848-4865. [PMID: 35861280 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm00744d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) or host-defence peptides act by penetrating and disrupting the bacterial membranes and are therefore less prone to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) compared to conventional antibiotics. However, there are still many challenges in the clinical application of the naturally occurring AMPs which necessitates further studies to establish the relationship between the chemical structure of AMPs and their antimicrobial activity and selectivity. Herein, we report a study on the relationship between the chemical structure and the biological activity of a series of rationally designed AMPs derived from Ponericin-W1, a naturally occurring AMP from ants. The peptides were designed by modification of the hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions of the lead peptide sequence in a systematic way. Their antibacterial and hemolytic activities were determined in vitro. The antibacterial activity of a representative peptide, At5 was also tested in a mouse model of skin wound infection. Furthermore, the relationship between the physicochemical properties of the peptides and their antibacterial activity was investigated. Replacing the cationic amino acids in the hydrophobic region of the peptides with hydrophobic amino acids enhanced their antibacterial activity and increasing the number of cationic amino acids in the hydrophilic region reduced their toxicity to human red blood cells and thus improved their selectivity for bacteria. Four of the designed peptides, coded as At3, At5, At8, and At10, displayed considerable antibacterial activity and high selectivity for bacteria. At5 also accelerated the wound healing in mice indicating high in vivo efficiency of this peptide. The peptides were more effective against Gram-negative bacteria and no AMR was developed against them in the bacteria even after 25 generations. The results from this study can provide a better understanding of the structural features required for strong antibacterial activity and selectivity, and serve as a guide for the future rational design of AMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songwei Lv
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China.
| | - Jingfang Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China.
| | - Rongrong You
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China.
| | - Suyu Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China. .,Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 3JD, UK
| | - Yujie Ding
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China.
| | - Roja Hadianamrei
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 3JD, UK
| | - Mhd Anas Tomeh
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 3JD, UK
| | - Fang Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China.
| | - Zhiqiang Cai
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China.
| | - Xiubo Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China. .,Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 3JD, UK
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43
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Jiang J, Pan Y, Li J, Xia L. Cecropin-Loaded Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework Nanoparticles with High Biocompatibility and Cervical Cancer Cell Toxicity. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27144364. [PMID: 35889239 PMCID: PMC9315993 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27144364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cecropins (CECs) are insect venom-derived amphiphilic peptides with numerous pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-tumor activities. Cecropins induce tumor cell death by disrupting phospholipid membrane integrity. However, non-specific cytotoxicity and in vivo rapid degradation limit clinical application. Nanotechnologies provide novel strategies for tumor eradication, including nanocarriers that can precisely target drugs to tumor tissue. We report the fabrication of CEC-encapsulated zeolitic imidazolate framework 8 (ZIF-8) nanoparticles (CEC@ZIF-8 NPs) via the preparation of CEC@ZIF-8 NPs in pure water by one-pot stirring. This method yielded morphologically uniform NPs with 20 wt% drug loading capacity and 9% loading efficiency. The NP formulation protected CECs from proteasome degradation, enhanced peptide bioavailability, promoted HeLa tumor cell uptake, and increased antitumor efficacy compared to free CECs. In conclusion, this ZIF-8 encapsulation strategy may enhance the clinical applicability of CECs and other antitumor peptides.
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44
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Leussa ANN, Rautenbach M. Antiplasmodial Cyclodecapeptides from Tyrothricin Share a Target with Chloroquine. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11060801. [PMID: 35740207 PMCID: PMC9219824 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11060801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research found that the six major cyclodecapeptides from the tyrothricin complex, produced by Brevibacillus parabrevis, showed potent activity against chloroquine sensitive (CQS) Plasmodium falciparum. The identity of the aromatic residues in the aromatic dipeptide unit in cyclo-(D-Phe1-Pro2-(Phe3/Trp3)-D-Phe4/D-Trp4)-Asn5-Gln6-(Tyr7/Phe7/Trp7)-Val8-(Orn9/Lys9)-Leu10 was proposed to have an important role in activity. CQS and resistant (CQR) P. falciparum strains were challenged with three representative cyclodecapeptides. Our results confirmed that cyclodecapeptides from tyrothricin had significantly higher antiplasmodial activity than the analogous gramicidin S, rivaling that of CQ. However, the previously hypothesized size and hydrophobicity dependent activity for these peptides did not hold true for P. falciparum strains, other than for the CQS 3D7 strain. The Tyr7 in tyrocidine A (TrcA) with Phe3-D-Phe4 seem to be related with loss in activity correlating with CQ antagonism and resistance, indicating a shared target and/or resistance mechanism in which the phenolic groups play a role. Phe7 in phenycidine A, the second peptide containing Phe3-D-Phe4, also showed CQ antagonism. Conversely, Trp7 in tryptocidine C (TpcC) with Trp3-D-Trp4 showed improved peptide selectivity and activity towards the more resistant strains, without overt antagonism towards CQ. However, TpcC lead to similar parasite stage inhibition and parasite morphology changes than previously observed for TrcA. The disorganization of chromatin packing and neutral lipid structures, combined with amorphous hemozoin crystals, could account for halted growth in late trophozoite/early schizont stage and the nanomolar non-lytic activity of these peptides. These targets related to CQ antagonism, changes in neural lipid distribution, leading to hemozoin malformation, indicate that the tyrothricin cyclodecapeptides and CQ share a target in the malaria parasite. The differing activities of these cyclic peptides towards CQS and CQR P. falciparum strains could be due to variable target interaction in multiple modes of activity. This indicated that the cyclodecapeptide activity and parasite resistance response depended on the aromatic residues in positions 3, 4 and 7. This new insight on these natural cyclic decapeptides could also benefit the design of unique small peptidomimetics in which activity and resistance can be modulated.
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Zheng X, Yuan C, Zhang Y, Zha S, Mao F, Bao Y. Prediction and characterization of a novel hemoglobin-derived mutant peptide (mTgHbP7) from Tegillarca granosa. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 125:84-89. [PMID: 35537672 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The hemoglobin (Hb) is identified in Tegillarca granosa and its derived peptides have been proved to possess antibacterial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. In this study, we identified a series of novel antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and artificially mutated AMPs derived from subunits of T. granosa Hbs, among which, a mutant T. granosa hemoglobin peptide (mTgHbP) mTgHbP7, was proved to possess predominant antibacterial activity against three bacteria strains (Vibrio alginolyticus, V. parahaemolyticus and Escherichia coli). Besides, mTgHbP7 was predicted to form α-helical structure, which was known to be an important feature of bactericidal AMPs. Furthermore, upon contact with HEK293 cell line, we confirmed that mTgHbP7 had no cytotoxicity to mammalian cell even at a high concentration of 160 μM. Therefore, the findings reported here provide a rationalization for antimicrobial peptide prediction and optimization from mollusk hemoglobin, which will be useful for future development of antimicrobial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Zheng
- School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Aquatic Germplasm Resources, College of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ningbo, 315100, China
| | - Chun Yuan
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Aquatic Germplasm Resources, College of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ningbo, 315100, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Innovation Academy of South China Sea Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, China
| | - Shanjie Zha
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Aquatic Germplasm Resources, College of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ningbo, 315100, China; Ninghai Institute of Mariculture Breeding and Seed Industry, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ninghai, 315604, China
| | - Fan Mao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Innovation Academy of South China Sea Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yongbo Bao
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Aquatic Germplasm Resources, College of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ningbo, 315100, China; Ninghai Institute of Mariculture Breeding and Seed Industry, Zhejiang Wanli University, Ninghai, 315604, China.
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Evolving and assembling to pierce through: Evolutionary and structural aspects of antimicrobial peptides. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:2247-2258. [PMID: 35615024 PMCID: PMC9117813 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The burgeoning menace of antimicrobial resistance across the globe has necessitated investigations into other chemotherapeutic strategies to combat infections. Antimicrobial peptides, or host defense peptides, are a set of promising therapeutic candidates in this regard. Most of them cause membrane permeabilization and are a key component of the innate immune response to pathogenic invasion. It has also been reported that peptide self-assembly is a driving factor governing the microbicidal activity of these peptide candidates. While efforts have been made to develop novel synthetic peptides against various microbes, many clinical trials of such peptides have failed due to toxicity and hemolytic activity to the host. A function-guided rational peptide engineering, based on evolutionary principles, physicochemical properties and activity determinants of AMP activity, is expected to help in targeting specific microbes. Furthermore, it is important to develop a unified understanding of the evolution of AMPs in order to fully appreciate their importance in host defense. This review seeks to explore the evolution of AMPs and the physicochemical determinants of AMP activity. The specific interactions driving AMP self-assembly have also been reviewed, emphasizing implications of this self-assembly on microbicidal and immunomodulatory activity.
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Amorim-Carmo B, Parente AMS, Souza ES, Silva-Junior AA, Araújo RM, Fernandes-Pedrosa MF. Antimicrobial Peptide Analogs From Scorpions: Modifications and Structure-Activity. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:887763. [PMID: 35712354 PMCID: PMC9197468 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.887763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid development of multidrug-resistant pathogens against conventional antibiotics is a global public health problem. The irrational use of antibiotics has promoted therapeutic limitations against different infections, making research of new molecules that can be applied to treat infections necessary. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a class of promising antibiotic molecules as they present broad action spectrum, potent activity, and do not easily induce resistance. Several AMPs from scorpion venoms have been described as a potential source for the development of new drugs; however, some limitations to their application are also observed. Here, we describe strategies used in several approaches to optimize scorpion AMPs, addressing their primary sequence, biotechnological potential, and characteristics that should be considered when developing an AMP derived from scorpion venoms. In addition, this review may contribute towards improving the understanding of rationally designing new molecules, targeting functional AMPs that may have a therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Amorim-Carmo
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Pharmacy Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do North, Natal, Brazil
| | - Adriana M. S. Parente
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Pharmacy Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do North, Natal, Brazil
| | - Eden S. Souza
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Sciences, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Arnóbio A. Silva-Junior
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Pharmacy Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do North, Natal, Brazil
| | - Renata M. Araújo
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Pharmacy Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do North, Natal, Brazil
| | - Matheus F. Fernandes-Pedrosa
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Pharmacy Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do North, Natal, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Matheus F. Fernandes-Pedrosa,
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PNC-27, a Chimeric p53-Penetratin Peptide Binds to HDM-2 in a p53 Peptide-like Structure, Induces Selective Membrane-Pore Formation and Leads to Cancer Cell Lysis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10050945. [PMID: 35625682 PMCID: PMC9138867 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10050945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
PNC-27, a 32-residue peptide that contains an HDM-2 binding domain and a cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) leader sequence kills cancer, but not normal, cells by binding to HDM-2 associated with the plasma membrane and induces the formation of pores causing tumor cell lysis and necrosis. Conformational energy calculations on the structure of PNC-27 bound to HDM-2 suggest that 1:1 complexes form between PNC-27 and HDM-2 with the leader sequence pointing away from the complex. Immuno-scanning electron microscopy was carried out with cancer cells treated with PNC-27 and decorated with an anti-PNC-27 antibody coupled to 6 nm gold particles and an anti-HDM-2 antibody linked to 15 nm gold particles. We found multiple 6 nm- and 15 nm-labeled gold particles in approximately 1:1 ratios in layered ring-shaped structures in the pores near the cell surface suggesting that these complexes are important to the pore structure. No pores formed in the control, PNC-27-treated untransformed fibroblasts. Based on the theoretical and immuno-EM studies, we propose that the pores are lined by PNC-27 bound to HDM-2 at the membrane surface with the PNC-27 leader sequence lining the pores or by PNC-27 bound to HDM-2.
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Nuti N, Rottmann P, Stucki A, Koch P, Panke S, Dittrich PS. A Multiplexed Cell‐Free Assay to Screen for Antimicrobial Peptides in Double Emulsion Droplets. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202114632. [PMID: 34989471 PMCID: PMC9303939 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202114632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The global surge in bacterial resistance against traditional antibiotics triggered intensive research for novel compounds, with antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) identified as a promising candidate. Automated methods to systematically generate and screen AMPs according to their membrane preference, however, are still lacking. We introduce a novel microfluidic system for the simultaneous cell‐free production and screening of AMPs for their membrane specificity. On our device, AMPs are cell‐free produced within water‐in‐oil‐in‐water double emulsion droplets, generated at high frequency. Within each droplet, the peptides can interact with different classes of co‐encapsulated liposomes, generating a membrane‐specific fluorescent signal. The double emulsions can be incubated and observed in a hydrodynamic trapping array or analyzed via flow cytometry. Our approach provides a valuable tool for the discovery and development of membrane‐active antimicrobials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Nuti
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering Bioanalytics Group ETH Zürich Mattenstrasse 26 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Philipp Rottmann
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering Bioprocess Laboratory ETH Zürich Mattenstrasse 26 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Ariane Stucki
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering Bioanalytics Group ETH Zürich Mattenstrasse 26 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Philipp Koch
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering Bioprocess Laboratory ETH Zürich Mattenstrasse 26 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Sven Panke
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering Bioprocess Laboratory ETH Zürich Mattenstrasse 26 4058 Basel Switzerland
| | - Petra S. Dittrich
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering Bioanalytics Group ETH Zürich Mattenstrasse 26 4058 Basel Switzerland
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Leucine-Rich, Potent Anti-Bacterial Protein against Vibrio cholerae, Staphylococcus aureus from Solanum trilobatum Leaves. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27041167. [PMID: 35208951 PMCID: PMC8876335 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27041167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A 24 kDa leucine-rich protein from ion exchange fractions of Solanum trilobatum, which has anti-bacterial activity against both the Gram-negative Vibrio cholerae and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus bacteria has been purified. In this study, mass spectrometry analysis identified the leucine richness and found a luminal binding protein (LBP). Circular dichroism suggests that the protein was predominantly composed of α- helical contents of its secondary structure. Scanning electron microscopy visualized the characteristics and morphological and structural changes in LBP-treated bacterium. Further in vitro studies confirmed that mannose-, trehalose- and raffinose-treated LBP completely inhibited the hemagglutination ability towards rat red blood cells. Altogether, these studies suggest that LBP could bind to sugar moieties which are abundantly distributed on bacterial surface which are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of bacteria. Considering that Solanum triolbatum is a well-known medicinal and edible plant, in order to shed light on its ancient usage in this work, an efficient anti-microbial protein was isolated, characterized and its in vitro functional study against human pathogenic bacteria was evaluated.
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