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Call DH, Adjei JA, Pilgrim R, Jeong JW, Willis EV, Zegarra RA, Tapia NL, Osterhaus M, Vance JA, Voyton CM, Call JA, Pizarro SS, Morris JC, Christensen KA. A multiplexed high throughput screening assay using flow cytometry identifies glycolytic molecular probes in bloodstream form Trypanosoma brucei. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2024; 26:100557. [PMID: 39163740 PMCID: PMC11381906 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2024.100557] [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: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
Kinetoplastid organisms, including Trypanosoma brucei, are a significant health burden in many tropical and semitropical countries. Much of their metabolism is poorly understood. To better study kinetoplastid metabolism, chemical probes that inhibit kinetoplastid enzymes are needed. To discover chemical probes, we have developed a high-throughput flow cytometry screening assay that simultaneously measures multiple glycolysis-relevant metabolites in live T. brucei bloodstream form parasites. We transfected parasites with biosensors that measure glucose, ATP, or glycosomal pH. The glucose and ATP sensors were FRET biosensors, while the pH sensor was a GFP-based biosensor. The pH sensor exhibited a different fluorescent profile from the FRET sensors, allowing us to simultaneously measure pH and either glucose or ATP. Cell viability was measured in tandem with the biosensors using thiazole red. We pooled sensor cell lines, loaded them onto plates containing a compound library, and then analyzed them by flow cytometry. The library was analyzed twice, once with the pooled pH and glucose sensor cell lines and once with the pH and ATP sensor cell lines. Multiplexing sensors provided some internal validation of active compounds and gave potential clues for each compound's target(s). We demonstrated this using the glycolytic inhibitor 2-deoxyglucose and the alternative oxidase inhibitor salicylhydroxamic acid. Individual biosensor-based assays exhibited a Z'-factor value acceptable for high-throughput screening, including when multiplexed. We tested assay performance in a pilot screen of 14,976 compounds from the Life Chemicals Compound Library. We obtained hit rates from 0.2 to 0.4% depending on the biosensor, with many compounds impacting multiple sensors. We rescreened 44 hits, and 28 (64%) showed repeatable activity for one or more sensors. One compound exhibited EC50 values in the low micromolar range against two sensors. We expect this method will enable the discovery of glycolytic chemical probes to improve metabolic studies in kinetoplastid parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel H Call
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
| | - John Asafo Adjei
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
| | - Ryan Pilgrim
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
| | - James W Jeong
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
| | - E Vance Willis
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
| | - Ronald A Zegarra
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
| | - Nicholas L Tapia
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
| | - Madalyn Osterhaus
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
| | - Jacob A Vance
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
| | - Charles M Voyton
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA; Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA.
| | - James A Call
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
| | - Sabrina S Pizarro
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA; Eukaryotic Pathogens Innovation Center, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA.
| | - James C Morris
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA; Eukaryotic Pathogens Innovation Center, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA.
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Fytas G, Zoidis G, Drakopoulos A, Taylor MC, Kelly JM, Tsatsaroni A, Tsotinis A. New Lipophilic Hydroxamates as Promising Trypanocidal Agents: Design, Synthesis, SAR, and Conformational Behavior Studies. ACS Med Chem Lett 2024; 15:1041-1048. [PMID: 39015276 PMCID: PMC11247629 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.4c00111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
A series of novel hydroxamic acid derivatives was designed and synthesized, and their growth inhibitory activity against bloodstream form Trypanosoma brucei was evaluated. These compounds are based on conformationally constrained, lipophilic, spiro carbocyclic 2,6-diketopiperazine (2,6-DKP) scaffolds and bear a side pharmacophoric functionality that contains an acetohydroxamic acid moiety (CH2CONHOH) linked with the imidic nitrogen atom of the 2,6-DKP ring via an acetamido portion [CH2CON(R), R = H, CH3]. Most of these analogues were active in the midnanomolar to low micromolar range against T. brucei. (S)-Isobutyl- or (S)-benzyl-substitution on the methylene carbon located between the amine nitrogen atom and carbonyl of the 2,6-DKP ring was studied. The effect of the methyl-substitution on the nitrogen atom of the acetamido portion in the side pharmacophoric functionality was also examined. Compounds 22 and 23, bearing an isobutyl- or benzyl-substituent, respectively, and concurrently a methyl-substituent, were found to be the most potent hydroxamates of this series (IC50 = 34 and 53 nM, respectively). Both had promising selectivity over the parasite compared to mammalian cells (SI = 940 and 470, respectively). Moreover, an E/Z conformational behavior study on hydroxamic acid 18 and its methyl-substituted counterpart 21 was undertaken using NMR spectroscopy and theoretical calculations.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Fytas
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou, GR-15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Grigoris Zoidis
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou, GR-15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Antonios Drakopoulos
- Department
of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University
of Gothenburg, Göteborg SE-412 96, Sweden
| | - Martin C. Taylor
- Department
of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene
and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, U.K.
| | - John M. Kelly
- Department
of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene
and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, U.K.
| | - Alexandra Tsatsaroni
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou, GR-15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Andrew Tsotinis
- Faculty
of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis-Zografou, GR-15771 Athens, Greece
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3
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Hauser DA, Kaiser M, Mäser P, Albisetti A. Venturicidin A affects the mitochondrial membrane potential and induces kDNA loss in Trypanosoma brucei. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2024; 68:e0167123. [PMID: 38869301 PMCID: PMC11232411 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01671-23] [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: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases caused by trypanosomatid parasites have devastating health and economic consequences, especially in tropical areas. New drugs or new combination therapies to fight these parasites are urgently needed. Venturicidin A, a macrolide extracted from Streptomyces, inhibits the ATP synthase complex of fungi and bacteria. However, its effect on trypanosomatids is not fully understood. In this study, we tested venturicidin A on a panel of trypanosomatid parasites using Alamar Blue assays and found it to be highly active against Trypanosoma brucei and Leishmania donovani, but much less so against Trypanosoma evansi. Using fluorescence microscopy, we observed a rapid loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential in T. brucei bloodstream forms upon venturicidin A treatment. Additionally, we report the loss of mitochondrial DNA in approximately 40%-50% of the treated parasites. We conclude that venturicidin A targets the ATP synthase of T. brucei, and we suggest that this macrolide could be a candidate for anti-trypanosomatid drug repurposing, drug combinations, or medicinal chemistry programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis A Hauser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marcel Kaiser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Mäser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anna Albisetti
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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4
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Jumani RS, Thomas B, Rao SPS. Imaging Assays to Detect DNA Damage in Trypanosome Parasites Using γH2A. Bio Protoc 2024; 14:e5026. [PMID: 39007161 PMCID: PMC11237981 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.5026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Diseases caused by trypanosomatid parasites remain a significant unmet medical need for millions of people globally. Trypanosomatid parasites such as Trypanosoma cruzi and subspecies of Trypanosoma brucei cause Chagas disease and human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), respectively. Although efforts to find novel treatments have been successful for HAT, Chagas disease is still treated with decades-old therapies that suffer from long treatment durations and severe safety concerns. We recently described the identification and characterization of the cyanotriazole compound class that kills trypanosomes, in vitro and in vivo, by selective inhibition of the trypanosome nuclear topoisomerase II enzyme. To evaluate whether inhibition of the topoisomerase II enzyme led to parasite death due to lethal double-strand DNA breaks, we developed assays for detecting DNA damage in both intracellular amastigotes of T. cruzi and bloodstream-form T. brucei by using the canonical DNA damage marker γH2A. Herein, this article describes the protocols for detecting DNA damage using an immunofluorescence assessment of γH2A by microscopy in trypanosome parasites. Key features • Immunofluorescence-based assay to detect the γH2A response in T. brucei and T. cruzi parasites. • Robust DNA damage pathway-based cellular assays to evaluate topoisomerase II poisons' ability to cause DNA damage. • A 384-well plate-based T. cruzi protocol allows high-resolution and high-throughput evaluation of compounds that cause DNA damage by measuring γH2A in intracellular parasites. • This assay could be modifiable for evaluation of DNA damage responses in various intracellular and extracellular eukaryotic pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv S Jumani
- Global Health, Biomedical Research, Novartis, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Bryanna Thomas
- Global Health, Biomedical Research, Novartis, Emeryville, CA, USA
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Mustière R, Dassonville-Klimpt A, Sonnet P. Aminopyridines in the development of drug candidates against protozoan neglected tropical diseases. Future Med Chem 2024; 16:1357-1373. [PMID: 39109436 PMCID: PMC11318709 DOI: 10.1080/17568919.2024.2359361] [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: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) pose a major threat in tropical zones for impoverished populations. Difficulty of access, adverse effects or low efficacy limit the use of current therapeutic options. Therefore, development of new drugs against NTDs is a necessity. Compounds containing an aminopyridine (AP) moiety are of great interest for the design of new anti-NTD drugs due to their intrinsic properties compared with their closest chemical structures. Currently, over 40 compounds with an AP moiety are on the market, but none is used against NTDs despite active research on APs. The aim of this review is to present the medicinal chemistry work carried out with these scaffolds, against protozoan NTDs: Trypanosoma cruzi, Trypanosoma brucei or Leishmania spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Mustière
- Université de Picardie-Jules-Verne, AGIR – Agents infectieux, RéSistance et chimiothérapie, UR 4294, UFR de pharmacie, 1, Rue des Louvels, F-80037 Amiens cedex 1, France
| | - Alexandra Dassonville-Klimpt
- Université de Picardie-Jules-Verne, AGIR – Agents infectieux, RéSistance et chimiothérapie, UR 4294, UFR de pharmacie, 1, Rue des Louvels, F-80037 Amiens cedex 1, France
| | - Pascal Sonnet
- Université de Picardie-Jules-Verne, AGIR – Agents infectieux, RéSistance et chimiothérapie, UR 4294, UFR de pharmacie, 1, Rue des Louvels, F-80037 Amiens cedex 1, France
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6
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Kennedy PGE. The evolving spectrum of human African trypanosomiasis. QJM 2024; 117:391-395. [PMID: 38065835 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcad273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), or sleeping sickness, continues to be a major threat to human health in 36 countries throughout sub-Saharan Africa with up to 60 million people at risk. Over the last decade, there have been several advances in this area, some of which are discussed in this overview. Due to the concerted efforts of several bodies, including better identification and treatment of cases and improved tsetse fly vector control, the number of cases of HAT has declined dramatically. The clinical heterogeneity of HAT has also been increasingly recognized, and the disease, while usually fatal if untreated or inadequately treated, does not always have a uniformly fatal outcome. Improved methods of HAT diagnosis have now been developed including rapid diagnostic tests. Novel drug treatment of HAT has also been developed, notably nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy (NECT) for late-stage Trypanosoma brucei gambiense, oral fexinidazole for early and the early component of the late-stage of T.b. gambiense, and the new oral compounds of the oxaborole group, which have shown considerable promise in field trials. Advances in HAT neuropathogenesis have been steady, though largely incremental, with a particular focus on the role of the blood-brain barrier in parasite entry into the central nervous system and the relevant importance of both innate and adaptive immunity. While the World Health Organization goal of elimination of HAT as a public health problem by 2020 has probably been achieved, it remains to be seen whether the second more ambitious goal of interruption of transmission of HAT by 2030 will be attained.
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Affiliation(s)
- P G E Kennedy
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Wellcome Surgical Institute, Garscube Campus, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
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7
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Pinazo MJ, Forsyth C, Losada I, Esteban ET, García-Rodríguez M, Villegas ML, Molina I, Crespillo-Andújar C, Gállego M, Ballart C, Ramirez JC, Aden T, Hoerauf A, Pfarr K, Vaillant M, Marques T, Fernandes J, Blum B, Ribeiro I, Sosa-Estani S, Barreira F, Gascón J. Efficacy and safety of fexinidazole for treatment of chronic indeterminate Chagas disease (FEXI-12): a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, phase 2 trial. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 24:395-403. [PMID: 38218194 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(23)00651-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than six million people worldwide, particularly in vulnerable communities in Latin America, are infected with Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. Only a small portion have access to diagnosis and treatment. Both drugs used to treat this chronic, neglected infection, benznidazole and nifurtimox, were developed more than 50 years ago, and adverse drug reactions during treatment pose a major barrier, causing 20% of patients to discontinue therapy. Fexinidazole proved efficacious in an earlier, interrupted clinical trial, but the doses evaluated were not well tolerated. The present study evaluated fexinidazole at lower doses and for shorter treatment durations. METHODS In this randomised, double-blind, phase 2 trial, we included adult patients (18-60 years old) with confirmed T cruzi infection by serology and PCR and without signs of organ involvement. We evaluated three regimens of fexinidazole-600 mg once daily for 10 days (6·0 g total dose), 1200 mg daily for 3 days (3·6 g), and 600 mg daily for 3 days followed by 1200 mg daily for 4 days (6·6 g)-and compared them with a historical placebo control group (n=47). The primary endpoint was sustained negative results by PCR at end of treatment and on each visit up to four months of follow-up. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03587766, and EudraCT, 2016-004905-15. FINDINGS Between Oct 16, 2017, and Aug 7, 2018, we enrolled 45 patients (n=15 for each group), of whom 43 completed the study. Eight (19%) of 43 fexinidazole-treated patients reached the primary endpoint, compared with six (13%) of 46 in the historical control group. Mean parasite load decreased sharply following treatment but rebounded beginning 10 weeks after treatment. Five participants had seven grade 3 adverse events: carpal tunnel, sciatica, device infection, pneumonia, staphylococcal infection, and joint and device dislocation. Two participants discontinued treatment due to adverse events unrelated to fexinidazole. INTERPRETATION The fexinidazole regimens in this study had an acceptable safety profile but did not prove effective against T cruzi infection. Development of fexinidazole monotherapy for treating T cruzi infection has been stopped. FUNDING The Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Jesus Pinazo
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health, ISGlobal-Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC, ISCIII), Spain.
| | - Colin Forsyth
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Irene Losada
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health, ISGlobal-Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Trigo Esteban
- Unidad de Patología Importada y Salud Internacional. Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Magdalena García-Rodríguez
- Infectious Diseases Service, International Health Unit, Consorcio Hospital General Universitario de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Maria Luz Villegas
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital General de L'Hospitalet, Complex Hospitalari Universitari Moisès Broggi, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Israel Molina
- CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC, ISCIII), Spain; Infectious Diseases Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara Crespillo-Andújar
- CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC, ISCIII), Spain; Unidad de Patología Importada y Salud Internacional. Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain; National Referral Unit for Tropical Diseases, Infectious Diseases Department, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Montserrat Gállego
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health, ISGlobal-Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC, ISCIII), Spain; Parasitology Section, Department of Biology, Health, and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Ballart
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health, ISGlobal-Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Parasitology Section, Department of Biology, Health, and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Ramirez
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones en Patologías Pediátricas, CONICET-GCBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tilman Aden
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
| | - Achim Hoerauf
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
| | - Kenneth Pfarr
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michel Vaillant
- Competence Centre for Methodology and Statistics, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Tayná Marques
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jayme Fernandes
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bethania Blum
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Isabela Ribeiro
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sergio Sosa-Estani
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Centro de Investigaciones en Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIESP-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Joaquim Gascón
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health, ISGlobal-Hospital Clinic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC, ISCIII), Spain
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8
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Giroud M, Kuhn B, Haap W. Drug Discovery Efforts to Identify Novel Treatments for Neglected Tropical Diseases - Cysteine Protease Inhibitors. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:2170-2194. [PMID: 37916489 DOI: 10.2174/0109298673249097231017051733] [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: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neglected tropical diseases are a severe burden for mankind, affecting an increasing number of people around the globe. Many of those diseases are caused by protozoan parasites in which cysteine proteases play a key role in the parasite's pathogenesis. OBJECTIVE In this review article, we summarize the drug discovery efforts of the research community from 2017 - 2022 with a special focus on the optimization of small molecule cysteine protease inhibitors in terms of selectivity profiles or drug-like properties as well as in vivo studies. The cysteine proteases evaluated by this methodology include Cathepsin B1 from Schistosoma mansoni, papain, cruzain, falcipain, and rhodesain. METHODS Exhaustive literature searches were performed using the keywords "Cysteine Proteases" and "Neglected Tropical Diseases" including the years 2017 - 2022. Overall, approximately 3'000 scientific papers were retrieved, which were filtered using specific keywords enabling the focus on drug discovery efforts. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Potent and selective cysteine protease inhibitors to treat neglected tropical diseases were identified, which progressed to pharmacokinetic and in vivo efficacy studies. As far as the authors are aware of, none of those inhibitors reached the stage of active clinical development. Either the inhibitor's potency or pharmacokinetic properties or safety profile or a combination thereof prevented further development of the compounds. More efforts with particular emphasis on optimizing pharmacokinetic and safety properties are needed, potentially by collaborations of academic and industrial research groups with complementary expertise. Furthermore, new warheads reacting with the catalytic cysteine should be exploited to advance the research field in order to make a meaningful impact on society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maude Giroud
- Pharma Research and Early Development pRED, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Medicinal Chemistry, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, Basel, CH-4070, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Kuhn
- Pharma Research and Early Development pRED, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Medicinal Chemistry, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, Basel, CH-4070, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Haap
- Pharma Research and Early Development pRED, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Medicinal Chemistry, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Grenzacherstrasse 124, Basel, CH-4070, Switzerland
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9
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Ortiz-Martínez Y, Kouamé MG, Bongomin F, Lakoh S, Henao-Martínez AF. Human African Trypanosomiasis (Sleeping Sickness)-Epidemiology, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2023; 10:222-234. [PMID: 38939748 PMCID: PMC11210952 DOI: 10.1007/s40475-023-00304-w] [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] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), also known as sleeping sickness, is a vector-borne parasitic neglected tropical disease (NTD) endemic in sub-Saharan Africa. This review aims to enhance our understanding of HAT and provide valuable insights to combat this significant public health issue by synthesizing the latest research and evidence. Recent Findings HAT has reached a historical < 1000 cases in 2018. In patients without neurologic symptoms and signs, the likelihood of a severe meningoencephalitic stage is deemed low, obviating the need for a lumbar puncture to guide treatment decisions using fexinidazole. Summary Both forms of the disease, gambiense HAT (gHAT) and rhodesiense HAT (rHAT), have specific epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment. Disease management still requires a high index of suspicion, infectious disease expertise, and specialized medical care. Essential stakeholders in health policy are critical to accomplishing the elimination goals of the NTD roadmap for 2021-2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeimer Ortiz-Martínez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | | | - Felix Bongomin
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Sulaiman Lakoh
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Andrés F. Henao-Martínez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Mail Stop B168, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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10
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Carvalho DB, Costa PAN, Portapilla GB, das Neves AR, Shiguemoto CYK, Pelizaro BI, Silva F, Piranda EM, Arruda CCP, Gaspari PDM, Cardoso IA, Luccas PH, Nonato MC, Lopes NP, de Albuquerque S, Baroni ACM. Design, synthesis and antitrypanosomatid activity of 2-nitroimidazole-3,5-disubstituted isoxazole compounds based on benznidazole. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 260:115451. [PMID: 37573209 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Chagas disease and leishmaniasis are neglected diseases of high priority as a public health problem. Pharmacotherapy is based on the administration of a few drugs, which exhibit hazardous adverse effects and toxicity to the patients. Thus, the search for new antitrypanosomatid drugs is imperative to overcome the limitations of the treatments. In this work, 46 2-nitroimidazole 3,5-disubstituted isoxazole compounds were synthesized in good yields by [3 + 2] cycloaddition reaction between terminal acetylene (propargyl-2-nitroimidazole) and chloro-oximes. The compounds were non-toxic to LLC-MK2 cells. Compounds 30, 35, and 44 showed in vitro antichagasic activity, 15-fold, 12-fold, and 10-fold, respectively, more active than benznidazole (BZN). Compounds 30, 35, 44, 45, 53, and 61 acted as substrates for the TcNTR enzyme, indicating that this might be one of the mechanisms of action involved in their antiparasitic activity. Piperazine series and 4-monosubstituted compounds were potent against T. cruzi parasites. Besides the in vitro activity observed in compound 45, the in vivo assay showed that the compound only reduced the parasitemia levels by the seventh-day post-infection (77%, p > 0.001) compared to the control group. However, 45 significantly reduced the parasite load in cardiac tissue (p < 0.01) 11 days post-infection. Compounds 49, 52, and 54 showed antileishmanial activity against intracellular amastigotes of Leishmania (L.) amazonensis at the same range as amphotericin B. These findings highlight the antitrypanosomatid properties of 2-nitroimidazole 3,5-disubstituted isoxazole compounds and the possibility in using them as antitrypanosomatid agents in further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego B Carvalho
- Laboratório de Síntese e Química Medicinal (LASQUIM), Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grossso do Sul- UFMS, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, CEP 79051-470, Brazil
| | - Pedro A N Costa
- Laboratório de Síntese e Química Medicinal (LASQUIM), Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grossso do Sul- UFMS, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, CEP 79051-470, Brazil; Laboratório de Parasitologia Humana, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Mato Grossso do Sul- UFMS, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, CEP 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Gisele B Portapilla
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto - Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, CEP 14040-900, Brazil
| | - Amarith R das Neves
- Laboratório de Síntese e Química Medicinal (LASQUIM), Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grossso do Sul- UFMS, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, CEP 79051-470, Brazil; Laboratório de Parasitologia Humana, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Mato Grossso do Sul- UFMS, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, CEP 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Y K Shiguemoto
- Laboratório de Síntese e Química Medicinal (LASQUIM), Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grossso do Sul- UFMS, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, CEP 79051-470, Brazil
| | - Bruno I Pelizaro
- Laboratório de Síntese e Química Medicinal (LASQUIM), Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grossso do Sul- UFMS, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, CEP 79051-470, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Silva
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Humana, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Mato Grossso do Sul- UFMS, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, CEP 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Eliane M Piranda
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Humana, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Mato Grossso do Sul- UFMS, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, CEP 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Carla C P Arruda
- Laboratório de Parasitologia Humana, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Mato Grossso do Sul- UFMS, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, CEP 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Priscyla D M Gaspari
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n Monte Alegre, CEP 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Iara A Cardoso
- Laboratório de Cristalografia de Proteínas, Departamento de Ciências BioMoleculares, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n Monte Alegre, CEP 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Pedro H Luccas
- Laboratório de Cristalografia de Proteínas, Departamento de Ciências BioMoleculares, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n Monte Alegre, CEP 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - M Cristina Nonato
- Laboratório de Cristalografia de Proteínas, Departamento de Ciências BioMoleculares, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n Monte Alegre, CEP 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Norberto P Lopes
- Núcleo de Pesquisas em Produtos Naturais e Sintéticos, Departamento de Ciências Biomoleculares, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, SP, CEP 14040-903, Brazil
| | - Sergio de Albuquerque
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto - Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, CEP 14040-900, Brazil
| | - Adriano C M Baroni
- Laboratório de Síntese e Química Medicinal (LASQUIM), Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Alimentos e Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Mato Grossso do Sul- UFMS, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, CEP 79051-470, Brazil.
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11
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Mitalo NS, Waiganjo NN, Mokua Mose J, Bosire DO, Oula JO, Orina Isaac A, Nyabuga Nyariki J. Coinfection with Schistosoma mansoni Enhances Disease Severity in Human African Trypanosomiasis. J Trop Med 2023; 2023:1063169. [PMID: 37954132 PMCID: PMC10637842 DOI: 10.1155/2023/1063169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) and schistosomiasis are neglected parasitic diseases found in the African continent. This study was conducted to determine how primary infection with Schistosoma mansoni affects HAT disease progression with a secondary infection with Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense (T.b.r) in a mouse model. Methods Female BALB-c mice (6-8 weeks old) were randomly divided into four groups of 12 mice each. The different groups were infected with Schistosoma mansoni (100 cercariae) and Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense (5.0 × 104) separately or together. Twenty-one days after infection with T.b.r, mice were sacrificed and samples were collected for analysis. Results The primary infection with S. mansoni significantly enhanced successive infection by the T.b.r; consequently, promoting HAT disease severity and curtailing host survival time. T.b.r-induced impairment of the neurological integrity and breach of the blood-brain barrier were markedly pronounced on coinfection with S. mansoni. Coinfection with S. mansoni and T.b.r resulted in microcytic hypochromic anemia characterized by the suppression of RBCs, hematocrit, hemoglobin, and red cell indices. Moreover, coinfection of the mice with the two parasites resulted in leukocytosis which was accompanied by the elevation of basophils, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils. More importantly, coinfection resulted in a significant elevation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, creatinine, urea, and uric acid, which are the markers of liver and kidney damage. Meanwhile, S. mansoni-driven dyslipidemia was significantly enhanced by the coinfection of mice with T.b.r. Moreover, coinfection with S. mansoni and T.b.r led to a strong immune response characterized by a significant increase in serum TNF-α and IFN-γ. T.b.r infection enhanced S. mansoni-induced depletion of cellular-reduced glutathione (GSH) in the brain and liver tissues, indicative of lethal oxidative damage. Similarly, coinfection resulted in a significant rise in nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Conclusion Primary infection with S. mansoni exacerbates disease severity of secondary infection with T.b.r in a mouse model that is associated with harmful inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and organ injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy S. Mitalo
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Technical University of Kenya, P.O. Box 52428, Nairobi 00200, Kenya
| | - Naomi N. Waiganjo
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Technical University of Kenya, P.O. Box 52428, Nairobi 00200, Kenya
| | - John Mokua Mose
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Technical University of Kenya, P.O. Box 52428, Nairobi 00200, Kenya
| | - David O. Bosire
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Technical University of Kenya, P.O. Box 52428, Nairobi 00200, Kenya
| | - James O. Oula
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Technical University of Kenya, P.O. Box 52428, Nairobi 00200, Kenya
| | - Alfred Orina Isaac
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Technical University of Kenya, P.O. Box 52428, Nairobi 00200, Kenya
| | - James Nyabuga Nyariki
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Technical University of Kenya, P.O. Box 52428, Nairobi 00200, Kenya
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12
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El Yamlahi Y, Bel Mokhtar N, Maurady A, Britel MR, Batargias C, Mutembei DE, Nyingilili HS, Malulu DJ, Malele II, Asimakis E, Stathopoulou P, Tsiamis G. Characterization of the Bacterial Profile from Natural and Laboratory Glossina Populations. INSECTS 2023; 14:840. [PMID: 37999039 PMCID: PMC10671886 DOI: 10.3390/insects14110840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Tsetse flies (Glossina spp.; Diptera: Glossinidae) are viviparous flies that feed on blood and are found exclusively in sub-Saharan Africa. They are the only cyclic vectors of African trypanosomes, responsible for human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) and animal African trypanosomiasis (AAT). In this study, we employed high throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene to unravel the diversity of symbiotic bacteria in five wild and three laboratory populations of tsetse species (Glossina pallidipes, G. morsitans, G. swynnertoni, and G. austeni). The aim was to assess the dynamics of bacterial diversity both within each laboratory and wild population in relation to the developmental stage, insect age, gender, and location. Our results indicated that the bacterial communities associated with the four studied Glossina species were significantly influenced by their region of origin, with wild samples being more diverse compared to the laboratory samples. We also observed that the larval microbiota was significantly different than the adults. Furthermore, the sex and the species did not significantly influence the formation of the bacterial profile of the laboratory colonies once these populations were kept under the same rearing conditions. In addition, Wigglesworthia, Acinetobacter, and Sodalis were the most abundant bacterial genera in all the samples, while Wolbachia was significantly abundant in G. morsitans compared to the other studied species. The operational taxonomic unit (OTU) co-occurrence network for each location (VVBD insectary, Doma, Makao, and Msubugwe) indicated a high variability between G. pallidipes and the other species in terms of the number of mutual exclusion and copresence interactions. In particular, some bacterial genera, like Wigglesworthia and Sodalis, with high relative abundance, were also characterized by a high degree of interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youssef El Yamlahi
- Laboratory of Innovative Technologies, National School of Applied Sciences of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Tétouan 93000, Morocco; (Y.E.Y.); (N.B.M.); (A.M.); (M.R.B.)
- Faculty of Sciences and Technics of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Tétouan 93000, Morocco
- Laboratory of Systems Microbiology and Applied Genomics, Department of Sustainable Agriculture, University of Patras, 2 Seferi St, 30131 Agrinio, Greece; (E.A.); (P.S.)
| | - Naima Bel Mokhtar
- Laboratory of Innovative Technologies, National School of Applied Sciences of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Tétouan 93000, Morocco; (Y.E.Y.); (N.B.M.); (A.M.); (M.R.B.)
- Laboratory of Systems Microbiology and Applied Genomics, Department of Sustainable Agriculture, University of Patras, 2 Seferi St, 30131 Agrinio, Greece; (E.A.); (P.S.)
| | - Amal Maurady
- Laboratory of Innovative Technologies, National School of Applied Sciences of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Tétouan 93000, Morocco; (Y.E.Y.); (N.B.M.); (A.M.); (M.R.B.)
- Faculty of Sciences and Technics of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Tétouan 93000, Morocco
| | - Mohammed R. Britel
- Laboratory of Innovative Technologies, National School of Applied Sciences of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Tétouan 93000, Morocco; (Y.E.Y.); (N.B.M.); (A.M.); (M.R.B.)
| | - Costas Batargias
- Department of Biology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece;
| | - Delphina E. Mutembei
- Vector & Vector Borne Diseases, Tanzania Veterinary Laboratory Agency (TVLA), Tanga P.O. Box 1026, Tanzania; (D.E.M.); (H.S.N.); (D.J.M.)
| | - Hamisi S. Nyingilili
- Vector & Vector Borne Diseases, Tanzania Veterinary Laboratory Agency (TVLA), Tanga P.O. Box 1026, Tanzania; (D.E.M.); (H.S.N.); (D.J.M.)
| | - Deusdedit J. Malulu
- Vector & Vector Borne Diseases, Tanzania Veterinary Laboratory Agency (TVLA), Tanga P.O. Box 1026, Tanzania; (D.E.M.); (H.S.N.); (D.J.M.)
| | - Imna I. Malele
- Directorate of Research and Technology Development, TVLA, Dar Es Salaam P.O. Box 9254, Tanzania;
| | - Elias Asimakis
- Laboratory of Systems Microbiology and Applied Genomics, Department of Sustainable Agriculture, University of Patras, 2 Seferi St, 30131 Agrinio, Greece; (E.A.); (P.S.)
| | - Panagiota Stathopoulou
- Laboratory of Systems Microbiology and Applied Genomics, Department of Sustainable Agriculture, University of Patras, 2 Seferi St, 30131 Agrinio, Greece; (E.A.); (P.S.)
| | - George Tsiamis
- Laboratory of Systems Microbiology and Applied Genomics, Department of Sustainable Agriculture, University of Patras, 2 Seferi St, 30131 Agrinio, Greece; (E.A.); (P.S.)
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13
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Racané L, Ptiček L, Kostrun S, Raić-Malić S, Taylor MC, Delves M, Alsford S, Olmo F, Francisco AF, Kelly JM. Bis-6-amidino-benzothiazole Derivative that Cures Experimental Stage 1 African Trypanosomiasis with a Single Dose. J Med Chem 2023; 66:13043-13057. [PMID: 37722077 PMCID: PMC10544003 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01051] [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: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
We designed and synthesized a series of symmetric bis-6-amidino-benzothiazole derivatives with aliphatic central units and evaluated their efficacy against bloodstream forms of the African trypanosome Trypanosoma brucei. Of these, a dicationic benzothiazole compound (9a) exhibited sub-nanomolar in vitro potency with remarkable selectivity over mammalian cells (>26,000-fold). Unsubstituted 5-amidine groups and a cyclohexyl spacer were the crucial determinants of trypanocidal activity. In all cases, mice treated with a single dose of 20 mg kg-1 were cured of stage 1 trypanosomiasis. The compound displayed a favorable in vitro ADME profile, with the exception of low membrane permeability. However, we found evidence that uptake by T. brucei is mediated by endocytosis, a process that results in lysosomal sequestration. The compound was also active in low nanomolar concentrations against cultured asexual forms of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Therefore, 9a has exquisite cross-species efficacy and represents a lead compound with considerable therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Racané
- Department
of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Textile Technology, University of Zagreb, Prilaz baruna Filipovića 28a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lucija Ptiček
- Department
of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Textile Technology, University of Zagreb, Prilaz baruna Filipovića 28a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sanja Kostrun
- Chemistry
Department, Selvita Ltd., Prilaz baruna Filipovića 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Silvana Raić-Malić
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb, Marulićev trg 20, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Martin Craig Taylor
- Department
of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene
and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, WC1E 7HT London, U.K.
| | - Michael Delves
- Department
of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene
and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, WC1E 7HT London, U.K.
| | - Sam Alsford
- Department
of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene
and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, WC1E 7HT London, U.K.
| | - Francisco Olmo
- Department
of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene
and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, WC1E 7HT London, U.K.
| | - Amanda Fortes Francisco
- Department
of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene
and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, WC1E 7HT London, U.K.
| | - John M. Kelly
- Department
of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene
and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, WC1E 7HT London, U.K.
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14
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Antillon M, Huang CI, Sutherland SA, Crump RE, Bessell PR, Shaw APM, Tirados I, Picado A, Biéler S, Brown PE, Solano P, Mbainda S, Darnas J, Wang-Steverding X, Crowley EH, Peka M, Tediosi F, Rock KS. Health economic evaluation of strategies to eliminate gambiense human African trypanosomiasis in the Mandoul disease focus of Chad. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011396. [PMID: 37498938 PMCID: PMC10409297 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011396] [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: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human African trypanosomiasis, caused by the gambiense subspecies of Trypanosoma brucei (gHAT), is a deadly parasitic disease transmitted by tsetse. Partners worldwide have stepped up efforts to eliminate the disease, and the Chadian government has focused on the previously high-prevalence setting of Mandoul. In this study, we evaluate the economic efficiency of the intensified strategy that was put in place in 2014 aimed at interrupting the transmission of gHAT, and we make recommendations on the best way forward based on both epidemiological projections and cost-effectiveness. In our analysis, we use a dynamic transmission model fit to epidemiological data from Mandoul to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of combinations of active screening, improved passive screening (defined as an expansion of the number of health posts capable of screening for gHAT), and vector control activities (the deployment of Tiny Targets to control the tsetse vector). For cost-effectiveness analyses, our primary outcome is disease burden, denominated in disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), and costs, denominated in 2020 US$. Although active and passive screening have enabled more rapid diagnosis and accessible treatment in Mandoul, the addition of vector control provided good value-for-money (at less than $750/DALY averted) which substantially increased the probability of reaching the 2030 elimination target for gHAT as set by the World Health Organization. Our transmission modelling and economic evaluation suggest that the gains that have been made could be maintained by passive screening. Our analysis speaks to comparative efficiency, and it does not take into account all possible considerations; for instance, any cessation of ongoing active screening should first consider that substantial surveillance activities will be critical to verify the elimination of transmission and to protect against the possible importation of infection from neighbouring endemic foci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Antillon
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ching-I Huang
- Zeeman Institute for Systems Biology and Infectious Disease Epidemiology Research, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Mathematics Institute, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel A. Sutherland
- Zeeman Institute for Systems Biology and Infectious Disease Epidemiology Research, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Ronald E. Crump
- Zeeman Institute for Systems Biology and Infectious Disease Epidemiology Research, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Mathematics Institute, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | | | - Alexandra P. M. Shaw
- Infection Medicine, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- AP Consultants, Walworth Enterprise Centre, Andover, United Kingdom
| | - Iñaki Tirados
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Albert Picado
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sylvain Biéler
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Paul E. Brown
- Zeeman Institute for Systems Biology and Infectious Disease Epidemiology Research, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Mathematics Institute, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Philippe Solano
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, UMR INTERTRYP IRD-CIRAD, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Severin Mbainda
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Moundou, Chad
| | - Justin Darnas
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Moundou, Chad
| | - Xia Wang-Steverding
- Zeeman Institute for Systems Biology and Infectious Disease Epidemiology Research, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Emily H. Crowley
- Zeeman Institute for Systems Biology and Infectious Disease Epidemiology Research, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Mathematics Institute, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Mallaye Peka
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Moundou, Chad
| | - Fabrizio Tediosi
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kat S. Rock
- Zeeman Institute for Systems Biology and Infectious Disease Epidemiology Research, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Mathematics Institute, The University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
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15
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Rao SPS, Gould MK, Noeske J, Saldivia M, Jumani RS, Ng PS, René O, Chen YL, Kaiser M, Ritchie R, Francisco AF, Johnson N, Patra D, Cheung H, Deniston C, Schenk AD, Cortopassi WA, Schmidt RS, Wiedemar N, Thomas B, Palkar R, Ghafar NA, Manoharan V, Luu C, Gable JE, Wan KF, Myburgh E, Mottram JC, Barnes W, Walker J, Wartchow C, Aziz N, Osborne C, Wagner J, Sarko C, Kelly JM, Manjunatha UH, Mäser P, Jiricek J, Lakshminarayana SB, Barrett MP, Diagana TT. Cyanotriazoles are selective topoisomerase II poisons that rapidly cure trypanosome infections. Science 2023; 380:1349-1356. [PMID: 37384702 DOI: 10.1126/science.adh0614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Millions who live in Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa are at risk of trypanosomatid infections, which cause Chagas disease and human African trypanosomiasis (HAT). Improved HAT treatments are available, but Chagas disease therapies rely on two nitroheterocycles, which suffer from lengthy drug regimens and safety concerns that cause frequent treatment discontinuation. We performed phenotypic screening against trypanosomes and identified a class of cyanotriazoles (CTs) with potent trypanocidal activity both in vitro and in mouse models of Chagas disease and HAT. Cryo-electron microscopy approaches confirmed that CT compounds acted through selective, irreversible inhibition of trypanosomal topoisomerase II by stabilizing double-stranded DNA:enzyme cleavage complexes. These findings suggest a potential approach toward successful therapeutics for the treatment of Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivasa P S Rao
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore
| | - Matthew K Gould
- College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Jonas Noeske
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Manuel Saldivia
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Rajiv S Jumani
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Pearly S Ng
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore
| | - Olivier René
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Yen-Liang Chen
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore
| | - Marcel Kaiser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ryan Ritchie
- College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Nila Johnson
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Debjani Patra
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Harry Cheung
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Colin Deniston
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Remo S Schmidt
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Natalie Wiedemar
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bryanna Thomas
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Rima Palkar
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Catherine Luu
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan E Gable
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Kah Fei Wan
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore
| | - Elmarie Myburgh
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - Jeremy C Mottram
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Department of Biology, University of York, York, UK
| | - Whitney Barnes
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - John Walker
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Charles Wartchow
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Natasha Aziz
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Colin Osborne
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Juergen Wagner
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christopher Sarko
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - John M Kelly
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ujjini H Manjunatha
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore
| | - Pascal Mäser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- Faculty of Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jan Jiricek
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore
| | - Suresh B Lakshminarayana
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore
| | - Michael P Barrett
- College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Thierry T Diagana
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Emeryville, CA, USA
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore
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16
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Rivara-Espasandín M, Palumbo MC, Sosa EJ, Radío S, Turjanski AG, Sotelo-Silveira J, Fernandez Do Porto D, Smircich P. Omics data integration facilitates target selection for new antiparasitic drugs against TriTryp infections. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1136321. [PMID: 37089958 PMCID: PMC10115950 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1136321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction:Trypanosoma cruzi, Trypanosoma brucei, and Leishmania spp., commonly referred to as TriTryps, are a group of protozoan parasites that cause important human diseases affecting millions of people belonging to the most vulnerable populations worldwide. Current treatments have limited efficiencies and can cause serious side effects, so there is an urgent need to develop new control strategies. Presently, the identification and prioritization of appropriate targets can be aided by integrative genomic and computational approaches.Methods: In this work, we conducted a genome-wide multidimensional data integration strategy to prioritize drug targets. We included genomic, transcriptomic, metabolic, and protein structural data sources, to delineate candidate proteins with relevant features for target selection in drug development.Results and Discussion: Our final ranked list includes proteins shared by TriTryps and covers a range of biological functions including essential proteins for parasite survival or growth, oxidative stress-related enzymes, virulence factors, and proteins that are exclusive to these parasites. Our strategy found previously described candidates, which validates our approach as well as new proteins that can be attractive targets to consider during the initial steps of drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Rivara-Espasandín
- Departamento de Genómica, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Miranda Clara Palumbo
- Instituto de Cálculo, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ezequiel J. Sosa
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN) CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Santiago Radío
- Departamento de Genómica, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Adrián G. Turjanski
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN) CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - José Sotelo-Silveira
- Departamento de Genómica, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Dario Fernandez Do Porto
- Instituto de Cálculo, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Dario Fernandez Do Porto, ; Pablo Smircich,
| | - Pablo Smircich
- Departamento de Genómica, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
- *Correspondence: Dario Fernandez Do Porto, ; Pablo Smircich,
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17
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García-Estrada C, Pérez-Pertejo Y, Domínguez-Asenjo B, Holanda VN, Murugesan S, Martínez-Valladares M, Balaña-Fouce R, Reguera RM. Further Investigations of Nitroheterocyclic Compounds as Potential Antikinetoplastid Drug Candidates. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13040637. [PMID: 37189384 DOI: 10.3390/biom13040637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the lack of specific vaccines, management of the trypanosomatid-caused neglected tropical diseases (sleeping sickness, Chagas disease and leishmaniasis) relies exclusively on pharmacological treatments. Current drugs against them are scarce, old and exhibit disadvantages, such as adverse effects, parenteral administration, chemical instability and high costs which are often unaffordable for endemic low-income countries. Discoveries of new pharmacological entities for the treatment of these diseases are scarce, since most of the big pharmaceutical companies find this market unattractive. In order to fill the pipeline of compounds and replace existing ones, highly translatable drug screening platforms have been developed in the last two decades. Thousands of molecules have been tested, including nitroheterocyclic compounds, such as benznidazole and nifurtimox, which had already provided potent and effective effects against Chagas disease. More recently, fexinidazole has been added as a new drug against African trypanosomiasis. Despite the success of nitroheterocycles, they had been discarded from drug discovery campaigns due to their mutagenic potential, but now they represent a promising source of inspiration for oral drugs that can replace those currently on the market. The examples provided by the trypanocidal activity of fexinidazole and the promising efficacy of the derivative DNDi-0690 against leishmaniasis seem to open a new window of opportunity for these compounds that were discovered in the 1960s. In this review, we show the current uses of nitroheterocycles and the novel derived molecules that are being synthesized against these neglected diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos García-Estrada
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Yolanda Pérez-Pertejo
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Bárbara Domínguez-Asenjo
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Vanderlan Nogueira Holanda
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Sankaranarayanan Murugesan
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, Pilani Campus, Pilani 333031, India
| | - María Martínez-Valladares
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (IGM), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad de León, Carretera León-Vega de Infanzones, Vega de Infanzones, 24346 León, Spain
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Rafael Balaña-Fouce
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Rosa M. Reguera
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain
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Betu Kumeso VK, Kalonji WM, Rembry S, Valverde Mordt O, Ngolo Tete D, Prêtre A, Delhomme S, Ilunga Wa Kyhi M, Camara M, Catusse J, Schneitter S, Nusbaumer M, Mwamba Miaka E, Mahenzi Mbembo H, Makaya Mayawula J, Layba Camara M, Akwaso Massa F, Kaninda Badibabi L, Kasongo Bonama A, Kavunga Lukula P, Mutanda Kalonji S, Mariero Philemon P, Mokilifi Nganyonyi R, Embana Mankiara H, Asuka Akongo Nguba A, Kobo Muanza V, Mulenge Nasandhel E, Fifi Nzeza Bambuwu A, Scherrer B, Strub-Wourgaft N, Tarral A. Efficacy and safety of acoziborole in patients with human African trypanosomiasis caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense: a multicentre, open-label, single-arm, phase 2/3 trial. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2023; 23:463-470. [PMID: 36460027 PMCID: PMC10033454 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(22)00660-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human African trypanosomiasis caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense (gambiense HAT) in patients with late-stage disease requires hospital admission to receive nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy (NECT). Fexinidazole, the latest treatment that has been recommended by WHO, also requires systematic admission to hospital, which is problematic in areas with few health-care resources. We aim to assess the safety and efficacy of acoziborole in adult and adolescent patients with gambiense HAT. METHODS This multicentre, prospective, open-label, single-arm, phase 2/3 study recruited patients aged 15 years or older with confirmed gambiense HAT infection from ten hospitals in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Guinea. Inclusion criteria included a Karnofsky score greater than 50, ability to swallow tablets, a permanent address or traceability, ability to comply with follow-up visits and study requirements, and agreement to hospital admission during treatment. Oral acoziborole was administered as a single 960 mg dose (3 × 320 mg tablets) to fasted patients. Patients were observed in hospital until day 15 after treatment administration then for 18 months as outpatients with visits at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months. The primary efficacy endpoint was the success rate of acoziborole treatment at 18 months in patients with late-stage gambiense HAT (modified intention-to-treat [mITT] population), based on modified WHO criteria. A complementary post-hoc analysis comparing the 18-month success rates for acoziborole and NECT (using historical data) was performed. This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03087955. FINDINGS Between Oct 11, 2016, and March 25, 2019, 260 patients were screened, of whom 52 were ineligible and 208 were enrolled (167 with late-stage and 41 with early-stage or intermediate-stage gambiense HAT; primary efficacy analysis set). All 41 (100%) patients with early-stage or intermediate-stage and 160 (96%) of 167 with late-stage disease completed the last 18-month follow-up visit. The mean age of participants was 34·0 years (SD 12·4), including 117 (56%) men and 91 (44%) women. Treatment success rate at 18 months was 95·2% (95% CI 91·2-97·7) reached in 159 of 167 patients with late-stage gambiense HAT (mITT population) and 98·1% (95·1-99·5) reached in 159 of 162 patients (evaluable population). Overall, 155 (75%) of 208 patients had 600 treatment-emergent adverse events. A total of 38 drug-related treatment-emergent adverse events occurred in 29 (14%) patients; all were mild or moderate and most common were pyrexia and asthenia. Four deaths occurred during the study; none were considered treatment related. The post-hoc analysis showed similar results to the estimated historical success rate for NECT of 94%. INTERPRETATION Given the high efficacy and favourable safety profile, acoziborole holds promise in the efforts to reach the WHO goal of interrupting HAT transmission by 2030. FUNDING Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, UK Aid, Federal Ministry of Education and Research, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, Médecins Sans Frontières, Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation, and the Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria Foundation. TRANSLATION For the French translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sandra Rembry
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Digas Ngolo Tete
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Adeline Prêtre
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sophie Delhomme
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Mamadou Camara
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine, Conakry, Guinea
| | - Julie Catusse
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Schneitter
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Morgane Nusbaumer
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Erick Mwamba Miaka
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sylvain Mutanda Kalonji
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo; Ngandajika Hospital, Kasaï Oriental, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | | | - Ricardo Mokilifi Nganyonyi
- Kwamouth Hospital, Kwamouth, Democratic Republic of the Congo; Bolobo Hospital, Bolobo, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Bruno Scherrer
- Bruno Scherrer Conseil, Saint Arnoult en Yvelines, France
| | | | - Antoine Tarral
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Pépin J. Sleeping sickness: time for dreaming. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2023; 23:387-388. [PMID: 36460028 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(22)00686-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Pépin
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada.
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20
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Melfi F, Carradori S, Campestre C, Haloci E, Ammazzalorso A, Grande R, D'Agostino I. Emerging compounds and therapeutic strategies to treat infections from Trypanosoma brucei: an overhaul of the last 5-years patents. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2023; 33:247-263. [PMID: 36933190 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2023.2193328] [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: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Human African Trypanosomiasis is a neglected disease caused by infection from parasites belonging to the Trypanosoma brucei species. Only six drugs are currently available and employed depending on the stage of the infection: pentamidine, suramin, melarsoprol, eflornithine, nifurtimox, and fexinidazole. Joint research projects were launched in an attempt to find new therapeutic options for this severe and often lethal disease. AREAS COVERED After a brief description of the recent literature on the parasite and the disease, we searched for patents dealing with the proposal of new anti-trypanosomiasis agents and, following the PRISMA guidelines, we filtered the results to those published from 2018onwards returning suitable entries, which represent the contemporary landscape of compounds/strategies against Trypanosoma brucei. In addition, some relevant publications from the overall scientific literature were also discussed. EXPERT OPINION This review comprehensively covers and analyzes the most recent advances not only in the discovery of new inhibitors and their structure-activity relationships but also in the assessment of innovative biological targets opening new scenarios in the MedChem field. Lastly, also new vaccines and formulations recently patented were described. However, natural and synthetic compounds were analyzed in terms of inhibitory activity and selective toxicity against human cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Melfi
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Simone Carradori
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Cristina Campestre
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Entela Haloci
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Medicine, Tirana, Albania
| | | | - Rossella Grande
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Ilaria D'Agostino
- Department of Pharmacy, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
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21
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Determination of the Optimal Single Dose Treatment for Acoziborole, a Novel Drug for the Treatment of Human African Trypanosomiasis: First-in-Human Study. Clin Pharmacokinet 2023; 62:481-491. [PMID: 36763327 PMCID: PMC10042906 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-023-01216-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Acoziborole is a novel boron-containing candidate developed as an oral drug for the treatment of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT). Results from preclinical studies allowed progression to Phase 1 trials. We aimed to determine the best dose regimen for all stages of HAT. METHODS Acoziborole was assessed in 128 healthy adult males of sub-Saharan African origin living in France. The study included a single oral administration of a 20- to 1200-mg dose in a randomised double-blind study in cohorts of 8 (6 active, 2 placebo) to assess safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics. In three additional open cohorts of 6 participants, the effect of activated charcoal was evaluated, bioequivalence of capsules versus tablets was assessed, and safety in the 960-mg tablet cohorts was monitored. RESULTS Acoziborole was well tolerated at all doses tested; no dose-related adverse events were observed. The drug appeared rapidly in plasma (at 1 h), reached tmax between 24 and 72 h, and remained stable for up to 96 h, after which a slow decrease was quantifiable until 14 weeks after dosing. Charcoal had little impact on the enterohepatic recirculation effect, except for the 20-mg dose. Bioequivalence between capsule and tablet formulations was demonstrated. The therapeutic single dose for administration under fasted conditions was fixed to 960 mg. The maximum administered dose was 1200 mg. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that acoziborole could be safely assessed in patients as a potential single-dose oral cure for both stages of gambiense HAT. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01533961.
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22
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Ngay Lukusa I, Van Reet N, Mumba Ngoyi D, Mwamba Miaka E, Masumu J, Patient Pyana P, Mutombo W, Ngolo D, Kobo V, Akwaso F, Ilunga M, Kaninda L, Mutanda S, Mpoyi Muamba D, Valverde Mordt O, Tarral A, Rembry S, Büscher P, Lejon V. Trypanosome spliced leader RNA for diagnosis of acoziborole treatment outcome in gambiense human African trypanosomiasis: A longitudinal follow-up study. EBioMedicine 2022; 86:104376. [PMID: 36436279 PMCID: PMC9700268 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Detection of spliced leader (SL)-RNA allows sensitive diagnosis of gambiense human African trypanosomiasis (HAT). We investigated its diagnostic performance for treatment outcome assessment. METHODS Blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a consecutive series of 97 HAT patients, originating from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, were prospectively collected before treatment with acoziborole, and during 18 months of longitudinal follow-up after treatment. For treatment outcome assessment, SL-RNA detection was compared with microscopic trypanosome detection and CSF white blood cell count. The trial was registered under NCT03112655 in clinicaltrials.gov. FINDINGS Before treatment, respectively 94.9% (92/97; CI 88.5-97.8%) and 67.7% (65/96; CI 57.8-76.2%) HAT patients were SL-RNA positive in blood or CSF. During follow-up, one patient relapsed with trypanosomes observed at 18 months, and was SL-RNA positive in blood and CSF at 12 months, and CSF positive at 18 months. Among cured patients, one individual tested SL-RNA positive in blood at month 12 (Specificity 98.9%; 90/91; CI 94.0-99.8%) and 18 (Specificity 98.9%; 88/89; CI 93.9-99.8%). INTERPRETATION SL-RNA detection for HAT treatment outcome assessment shows ≥98.9% specificity in blood and 100% in CSF, and may detect relapses without lumbar puncture. FUNDING The DiTECT-HAT project is part of the EDCTP2 programme, supported by Horizon 2020, the European Union Funding for Research and Innovation (grant number DRIA-2014-306-DiTECT-HAT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ipos Ngay Lukusa
- Department of Parasitology, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Nick Van Reet
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Dieudonné Mumba Ngoyi
- Department of Parasitology, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Erick Mwamba Miaka
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Ministry of Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Justin Masumu
- Department of Parasitology, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Pati Patient Pyana
- Department of Parasitology, Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Wilfried Mutombo
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Ministry of Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Digas Ngolo
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Ministry of Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Vincent Kobo
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Ministry of Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Felix Akwaso
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Ministry of Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Médard Ilunga
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Ministry of Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Lewis Kaninda
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Ministry of Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Sylvain Mutanda
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Ministry of Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Dieudonné Mpoyi Muamba
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Ministry of Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | | | - Antoine Tarral
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sandra Rembry
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Philippe Büscher
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Veerle Lejon
- Mixed Research Unit 177 Intertryp, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Centre de Coopération Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
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23
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Bernhard S, Kaiser M, Burri C, Mäser P. Fexinidazole for Human African Trypanosomiasis, the Fruit of a Successful Public-Private Partnership. Diseases 2022; 10:90. [PMID: 36278589 PMCID: PMC9589988 DOI: 10.3390/diseases10040090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
After 100 years of chemotherapy with impractical and toxic drugs, an oral cure for human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) is available: Fexinidazole. In this case, we review the history of drug discovery for HAT with special emphasis on the discovery, pre-clinical development, and operational challenges of the clinical trials of fexinidazole. The screening of the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) HAT-library by the Swiss TPH had singled out fexinidazole, originally developed by Hoechst (now Sanofi), as the most promising of a series of over 800 nitroimidazoles and related molecules. In cell culture, fexinidazole has an IC50 of around 1 µM against Trypanosoma brucei and is more than 100-fold less toxic to mammalian cells. In the mouse model, fexinidazole cures both the first, haemolymphatic, and the second, meningoencephalitic stage of the infection, the latter at 100 mg/kg twice daily for 5 days. In patients, the clinical trials managed by DNDi and supported by Swiss TPH mainly conducted in the Democratic Republic of the Congo demonstrated that oral fexinidazole is safe and effective for use against first- and early second-stage sleeping sickness. Based on the positive opinion issued by the European Medicines Agency in 2018, the WHO has released new interim guidelines for the treatment of HAT including fexinidazole as the new therapy for first-stage and non-severe second-stage sleeping sickness caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense (gHAT). This greatly facilitates the diagnosis and treatment algorithm for gHAT, increasing the attainable coverage and paving the way towards the envisaged goal of zero transmission by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Bernhard
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marcel Kaiser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Burri
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Mäser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
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Sharma A, Cipriano M, Ferrins L, Hajduk SL, Mensa-Wilmot K. Hypothesis-generating proteome perturbation to identify NEU-4438 and acoziborole modes of action in the African Trypanosome. iScience 2022; 25:105302. [PMID: 36304107 PMCID: PMC9593816 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
NEU-4438 is a lead for the development of drugs against Trypanosoma brucei, which causes human African trypanosomiasis. Optimized with phenotypic screening, targets of NEU-4438 are unknown. Herein, we present a cell perturbome workflow that compares NEU-4438's molecular modes of action to those of SCYX-7158 (acoziborole). Following a 6 h perturbation of trypanosomes, NEU-4438 and acoziborole reduced steady-state amounts of 68 and 92 unique proteins, respectively. After analysis of proteomes, hypotheses formulated for modes of action were tested: Acoziborole and NEU-4438 have different modes of action. Whereas NEU-4438 prevented DNA biosynthesis and basal body maturation, acoziborole destabilized CPSF3 and other proteins, inhibited polypeptide translation, and reduced endocytosis of haptoglobin-hemoglobin. These data point to CPSF3-independent modes of action for acoziborole. In case of polypharmacology, the cell-perturbome workflow elucidates modes of action because it is target-agnostic. Finally, the workflow can be used in any cell that is amenable to proteomic and molecular biology experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrita Sharma
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA 30144, USA
| | - Michael Cipriano
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Lori Ferrins
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Stephen L. Hajduk
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Kojo Mensa-Wilmot
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA 30144, USA,Corresponding author
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From rational design to serendipity: Discovery of novel thiosemicarbazones as potent trypanocidal compounds. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 244:114876. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Gambiense human African trypanosomiasis (gHAT), a disease that has killed hundreds of thousands as recently as the 1990s, could be on the verge of elimination or even eradication. This review describes recent developments that give us reasons for optimism as well as some caveats. RECENT FINDINGS New developments in diagnostic and vector control tools, and especially in treatment, make it possible to strive for elimination of transmission of gHAT by 2030, perhaps even eradication. SUMMARY Gambiense human African trypanosomiasis is a deadly infectious disease affecting West and Central Africa, South Sudan and Uganda, and transmitted between humans by tsetse flies. The disease has caused several major epidemics, the latest one in the 1990s. Thanks to recent innovations such as rapid diagnostic tests for population screening, a single-dose oral treatment and a highly efficient vector control strategy, interruption of transmission of the causative parasite is now within reach. If indeed gHAT has an exclusively human reservoir, this could even result in eradication of the disease. Even if there were an animal reservoir, on the basis of epidemiological data, it plays a limited role. Maintaining adequate postelimination surveillance in known historic foci, using the newly developed tools, should be sufficient to prevent any future resurgence.
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Kande Betu Kumesu V, Mutombo Kalonji W, Bardonneau C, Valverde Mordt O, Ngolo Tete D, Blesson S, Simon F, Delhomme S, Bernhard S, Nganzobo Ngima P, Mahenzi Mbembo H, Fina Lubaki JP, Lumeya Vuvu S, Kuziena Mindele W, Ilunga Wa Kyhi M, Mandula Mokenge G, Kaninda Badibabi L, Kasongo Bonama A, Kavunga Lukula P, Lumbala C, Scherrer B, Strub-Wourgaft N, Tarral A. Safety and efficacy of oral fexinidazole in children with gambiense human African trypanosomiasis: a multicentre, single-arm, open-label, phase 2–3 trial. THE LANCET GLOBAL HEALTH 2022; 10:e1665-e1674. [PMID: 36179736 PMCID: PMC9554014 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(22)00338-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fexinidazole has been reported as an effective oral monotherapy against non-severe gambiense human African trypanosomiasis in a recent trial in adults. We aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of fexinidazole in children across all disease stages of gambiense human African trypanosomiasis. Methods We did a multicentre, single-arm, open-label, phase 2–3 trial at eight district hospitals in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We recruited children with a Karnofsky score of more than 50, those aged 6 years to younger than 15 years, weighing 20 kg or more, and with confirmed gambiense human African trypanosomiasis (any stage). Children weighing 20 kg or more and less than 35 kg received oral fexinidazole of 1200 mg (two × 600 mg tablets) once per day for 4 days (days 1–4) followed by 600 mg (one × 600 mg tablet) once per day for 6 days (days 5–10). Children weighing 35 kg or more received oral fexinidazole of 1800 mg (three × 600 mg tablets) once per day for 4 days (days 1–4), followed by 1200 mg (two × 600 mg tablets) once per day for 6 days (days 5–10). The primary endpoint was fexinidazole treatment success rate 12 months after end of treatment. A rate greater than 80% was deemed acceptable and a target value of 92% was aimed for. Safety was assessed through routine monitoring. This study is completed and registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02184689. Findings Between May 3, 2014, and Nov 22, 2016, we screened a total of 130 paediatric patients, of whom 125 (96%) received at least one dose of fexinidazole. All 125 patients (69 [55%] patients with stage 1, 19 [15%] with early stage 2, and 37 [30%] with late stage 2 gambiense human African trypanosomiasis) completed the 10-day treatment. Treatment success rate at 12 months was 97·6% (95% CI 93·1–99·5; 122 of 125 patients). The primary endpoint was met and the targeted value of 92% was exceeded. Treatment success at 12 months was elevated across all disease stages: 98·6% (95% CI 92·2–99·9; 68 of 69 patients) in stage 1, 94·7% (74·0–99·9; 18 of 19 patients) in early stage 2, and 97·3% (85·8–99·9; 36 of 37 patients) in late stage 2 gambiense human African trypanosomiasis. No new safety issues were observed beyond those found in adult trials. Overall, 116 (93%) of 125 patients reported 586 treatment-emergent adverse events, mainly mild or moderate. The most frequently reported treatment-emergent adverse events of interest during hospital admission were vomiting (86 [69%] of 125) and headache (41 [33%]). Seven (6%) of 125 patients had severe malaria, which was often accompanied by anaemia that was unrelated to fexinidazole. One patient died following dyspnoea and injury due to traumatic aggression 172 days after end of treatment, which was considered unrelated to fexinidazole or gambiense human African trypanosomiasis. Interpretation Oral fexinidazole is a safe and effective first-line treatment option across all gambiense human African trypanosomiasis disease stages in paediatric patients. Funding Through the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative: the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (USA), the Republic and Canton of Geneva (Switzerland), the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Netherlands), the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norway), the Federal Ministry of Education and Research through KfW (Germany), the Brian Mercer Charitable Trust (UK), and other private foundations and individuals from the human African trypanosomiasis campaign. Translation For the French translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Arbon D, Ženíšková K, Šubrtová K, Mach J, Štursa J, Machado M, Zahedifard F, Leštinová T, Hierro-Yap C, Neuzil J, Volf P, Ganter M, Zoltner M, Zíková A, Werner L, Sutak R. Repurposing of MitoTam: Novel Anti-Cancer Drug Candidate Exhibits Potent Activity against Major Protozoan and Fungal Pathogens. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2022; 66:e0072722. [PMID: 35856666 PMCID: PMC9380531 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00727-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Many of the currently available anti-parasitic and anti-fungal frontline drugs have severe limitations, including adverse side effects, complex administration, and increasing occurrence of resistance. The discovery and development of new therapeutic agents is a costly and lengthy process. Therefore, repurposing drugs with already established clinical application offers an attractive, fast-track approach for novel treatment options. In this study, we show that the anti-cancer drug candidate MitoTam, a mitochondria-targeted analog of tamoxifen, efficiently eliminates a wide range of evolutionarily distinct pathogens in vitro, including pathogenic fungi, Plasmodium falciparum, and several species of trypanosomatid parasites, causative agents of debilitating neglected tropical diseases. MitoTam treatment was also effective in vivo and significantly reduced parasitemia of two medically important parasites, Leishmania mexicana and Trypanosoma brucei, in their respective animal infection models. Functional analysis in the bloodstream form of T. brucei showed that MitoTam rapidly altered mitochondrial functions, particularly affecting cellular respiration, lowering ATP levels, and dissipating mitochondrial membrane potential. Our data suggest that the mode of action of MitoTam involves disruption of the inner mitochondrial membrane, leading to rapid organelle depolarization and cell death. Altogether, MitoTam is an excellent candidate drug against several important pathogens, for which there are no efficient therapies and for which drug development is not a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Arbon
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Kateřina Ženíšková
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Karolína Šubrtová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Mach
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Štursa
- Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Marta Machado
- Graduate Program in Areas of Basic and Applied Biology, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Portugal
| | - Farnaz Zahedifard
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Leštinová
- Faculty of Sciences, Charles University, Department of Parasitology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Carolina Hierro-Yap
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Neuzil
- Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czech Republic
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Science, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Volf
- Faculty of Sciences, Charles University, Department of Parasitology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Markus Ganter
- Centre for Infectious Diseases, Parasitology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martin Zoltner
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Zíková
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Lukáš Werner
- Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Robert Sutak
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czech Republic
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Barreiro-Costa O, Quiroga Lozano C, Muñoz E, Rojas-Silva P, Medeiros A, Comini MA, Heredia-Moya J. Evaluation of the Anti- Leishmania mexicana and - Trypanosoma brucei Activity and Mode of Action of 4,4'-(Arylmethylene)bis(3-methyl-1-phenyl-1 H-pyrazol-5-ol). Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10081913. [PMID: 36009460 PMCID: PMC9405596 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Trypanosomiasis and leishmaniasis are neglected infections caused by trypanosomatid parasites. The first-line treatments have many adverse effects, high costs, and are prone to resistance development, hence the necessity for new chemotherapeutic options. In line with this, twenty five 4,4′-(arylmethylene)bis(1H-pyrazol-5-ols) derivatives were synthesized and evaluated in vitro for their anti-trypanosomatid activity. Ten and five compounds from this series showed IC50 ≤ 10 µM against the promastigote and the bloodstream stage of Leishmania mexicana and Trypanosoma brucei brucei, respectively. Overall, derivatives with pyrazole rings substituted with electron-withdrawing groups proved more active than those with electron-donating groups. The hits proved moderately selective towards L. mexicana and T. brucei (selectivity index, SI, compared to murine macrophages = 5−26). The exception was one derivative displaying an SI (>111−189) against T. brucei that surpassed, by >6-fold, the selectivity of the clinical drug nifurtimox (SI = 13−28.5). Despite sharing a common scaffold, the hits differed in their mechanism of action, with halogenated derivatives inducing a rapid and marked intracellular oxidative milieu in infective T. brucei. Notably, most of the hits presented better absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties than the reference drugs. Several of the bioactive molecules herein identified represent a promising starting point for further improvement of their trypanosomatid potency and selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olalla Barreiro-Costa
- Center for Biomedical Research (CENBIO), Eugenio Espejo College of Health Sciences, Universidad UTE, Quito 170527, Ecuador
| | - Cristina Quiroga Lozano
- Laboratory Redox Biology of Trypanosomes, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay
| | - Erika Muñoz
- Instituto de Microbiología y Programa de Maestría en Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito 170901, Ecuador
| | - Patricio Rojas-Silva
- Center for Biomedical Research (CENBIO), Eugenio Espejo College of Health Sciences, Universidad UTE, Quito 170527, Ecuador
- Instituto de Microbiología y Programa de Maestría en Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Quito 170901, Ecuador
| | - Andrea Medeiros
- Laboratory Redox Biology of Trypanosomes, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11800, Uruguay
| | - Marcelo A. Comini
- Laboratory Redox Biology of Trypanosomes, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay
- Correspondence: (M.A.C.); (J.H.-M.)
| | - Jorge Heredia-Moya
- Center for Biomedical Research (CENBIO), Eugenio Espejo College of Health Sciences, Universidad UTE, Quito 170527, Ecuador
- Correspondence: (M.A.C.); (J.H.-M.)
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Torrico F, Gascón J, Ortiz L, Pinto J, Rojas G, Palacios A, Barreira F, Blum B, Schijman AG, Vaillant M, Strub-Wourgaft N, Pinazo MJ, Bilbe G, Ribeiro I. A Phase 2, Randomized, Multicenter, Placebo-Controlled, Proof-of-Concept Trial of Oral Fexinidazole in Adults With Chronic Indeterminate Chagas Disease. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 76:e1186-e1194. [PMID: 35925555 PMCID: PMC9907522 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chagas disease (CD) has significant global health impact, but safe, effective treatments remain elusive. The nitroimidazole fexinidazole is a potential treatment. METHODS This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-finding, proof-of-concept study was conducted in Bolivia. Adults with serologically confirmed chronic indeterminate CD and positive PCR were randomly assigned to 1 of 6 fexinidazole regimens (1200 or 1800 mg/day for 2, 4, or 8 weeks) or placebo. Target recruitment was 20 patients/arm. The primary endpoint was sustained parasitological clearance by serial negative qPCR from end of treatment (EOT) until 6 months follow-up in the intention-to-treat (ITT) population. Follow-up was extended to 12 months. RESULTS Enrollment was interrupted after 4/47 patients presented with transient asymptomatic grade 3 and 4 neutropenia. Treatment of ongoing patients was stopped in all patients administered >2 weeks. A total of 40 patients received treatment with fexinidazole from 3 days to 8 weeks. Delayed-onset neutropenia (n = 8) and increased liver enzymes (n = 8) were found in fexinidazole patients vs none in the placebo arm. In the ITT analysis, sustained parasitological clearance from EOT to 12 months follow-up varied between 66.7% (1200 mg-2 week) and 100.0% (1800 mg-2 week). Rapid, sustained clearance of parasitemia was observed in all treated patients with available data, but not in any patients in the placebo group, at 12 months (P = .0056). Further exploratory exposure-response analysis suggested low dosages of fexinidazole may be safe and effective. CONCLUSIONS Further evaluation is needed to establish fexinidazole's minimum effective dosage and risk-benefit relationship. Results suggest potential for effective treatment regimens <10 days. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NCT02498782.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faustino Torrico
- Universidad Mayor de San Simón and Fundación CEADES, Cochabamba, Bolivia
| | - Joaquim Gascón
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic-University of Barcelona; CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC, ISCIII), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lourdes Ortiz
- Universidad Autónoma Juan Misael Saracho de Tarija, Bolivia and Fundación CEADES, Tarija, Bolivia
| | - Jimy Pinto
- Universidad Mayor de San Simón and Fundación CEADES, Cochabamba, Bolivia
| | - Gimena Rojas
- Universidad Mayor de San Simón and Fundación CEADES, Cochabamba, Bolivia
| | - Alejandro Palacios
- Universidad Autónoma Juan Misael Saracho de Tarija, Bolivia and Fundación CEADES, Tarija, Bolivia
| | | | - Bethania Blum
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alejandro Gabriel Schijman
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular de la Enfermedad de Chagas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ingeniería Genética y Biología Molecular “Dr. Héctor N. Torres”—INGEBI-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Michel Vaillant
- Centre de Recherche Public de la Santé CRP-Santé, Strassen, Luxembourg
| | | | - Maria-Jesus Pinazo
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clinic-University of Barcelona; CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERINFEC, ISCIII), Barcelona, Spain,Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Graeme Bilbe
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Isabela Ribeiro
- Correspondence: I. Ribeiro, Dynamic Portfolio Unit, Isabela Ribeiro, Viral Diseases Cluster, Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, 15 Chemin Camille Vidart 1202 Geneva, Switzerland ()
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Mabille D, Ilbeigi K, Hendrickx S, Ungogo MA, Hulpia F, Lin C, Maes L, de Koning HP, Van Calenbergh S, Caljon G. Nucleoside analogues for the treatment of animal trypanosomiasis. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2022; 19:21-30. [PMID: 35567803 PMCID: PMC9111543 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Animal trypanosomiasis (AT) is a parasitic disease with high socio-economic impact. Given the limited therapeutic options and problems of toxicity and drug resistance, this study assessed redirecting our previously identified antitrypanosomal nucleosides for the treatment of AT. Promising hits were identified with excellent in vitro activity across all important animal trypanosome species. Compound 7, an inosine analogue, and our previously described lead compound, 3'-deoxytubercidin (8), showed broad spectrum anti-AT activity, metabolic stability in the target host species and absence of toxicity, but with variable efficacy ranging from limited activity to full cure in mouse models of Trypanosoma congolense and T. vivax infection. Several compounds show promise against T. evansi (surra) and T. equiperdum (dourine). Given the preferred target product profile for a broad-spectrum compound against AT, this study emphasizes the need to include T. vivax in the screening cascade given its divergent susceptibility profile and provides a basis for lead optimization towards such broad spectrum anti-AT compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorien Mabille
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Parasitology and Hygiene (LMPH), Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Kayhan Ilbeigi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Parasitology and Hygiene (LMPH), Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Sarah Hendrickx
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Parasitology and Hygiene (LMPH), Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Marzuq A Ungogo
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom.
| | - Fabian Hulpia
- Laboratory for Medicinal Chemistry, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Cai Lin
- Laboratory for Medicinal Chemistry, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Louis Maes
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Parasitology and Hygiene (LMPH), Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Harry P de Koning
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Guy Caljon
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Parasitology and Hygiene (LMPH), Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.
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Venturelli A, Tagliazucchi L, Lima C, Venuti F, Malpezzi G, Magoulas GE, Santarem N, Calogeropoulou T, Cordeiro-da-Silva A, Costi MP. Current Treatments to Control African Trypanosomiasis and One Health Perspective. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10071298. [PMID: 35889018 PMCID: PMC9321528 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10071298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT, sleeping sickness) and Animal African Trypanosomiasis (AAT) are neglected tropical diseases generally caused by the same etiological agent, Trypanosoma brucei. Despite important advances in the reduction or disappearance of HAT cases, AAT represents a risky reservoir of the infections. There is a strong need to control AAT, as is claimed by the European Commission in a recent document on the reservation of antimicrobials for human use. Control of AAT is considered part of the One Health approach established by the FAO program against African Trypanosomiasis. Under the umbrella of the One Health concepts, in this work, by analyzing the pharmacological properties of the therapeutic options against Trypanosoma brucei spp., we underline the need for clearer and more defined guidelines in the employment of drugs designed for HAT and AAT. Essential requirements are addressed to meet the challenge of drug use and drug resistance development. This approach shall avoid inter-species cross-resistance phenomena and retain drugs therapeutic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Venturelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (A.V.); (L.T.); (F.V.); (G.M.)
| | - Lorenzo Tagliazucchi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (A.V.); (L.T.); (F.V.); (G.M.)
- Doctorate School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Clara Lima
- Host-Parasite Interactions Group, Institute of Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal; (C.L.); (N.S.); (A.C.-d.-S.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
| | - Federica Venuti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (A.V.); (L.T.); (F.V.); (G.M.)
| | - Giulia Malpezzi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (A.V.); (L.T.); (F.V.); (G.M.)
| | - George E. Magoulas
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece; (G.E.M.); (T.C.)
| | - Nuno Santarem
- Host-Parasite Interactions Group, Institute of Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal; (C.L.); (N.S.); (A.C.-d.-S.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
| | - Theodora Calogeropoulou
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece; (G.E.M.); (T.C.)
| | - Anabela Cordeiro-da-Silva
- Host-Parasite Interactions Group, Institute of Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal; (C.L.); (N.S.); (A.C.-d.-S.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Paola Costi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (A.V.); (L.T.); (F.V.); (G.M.)
- Correspondence:
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Elrufaie HA, Mohamed LM, Hamd AY, Bala NA, Elbadawi FA, Ghaboosh H, Alzain AA. Discovery of novel natural products as rhodesain inhibitors for human African trypanosomiasis using in silico techniques. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2022:1-13. [PMID: 35751127 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2092550] [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: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) or sleeping sickness is caused by the Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, a subspecies of the Trypanosomatide family. The parasite is associated with high morbidity and mortality rate in both animals and humans, claimed to be more fatal than other vector-transmitted diseases such as malaria. The majority of existing medications are highly toxic, not effective in the late chronic phase of the disease, and require maximum dosages to fully eradicate the parasite. In this study, we used computational methods to find out natural products that inhibit the Rhodesain, a parasitic enzyme that plays an important role in the parasite's pathogenicity, multiplication, and ability to pass through the host's blood-brain barrier. A library of 270540 natural products from ZINC databases was processed by using e-pharmacophore hypnosis and screening procedures, molecular docking, ADMET processes, and MM-GBSA calculations. This led to the identification of 3 compounds (ZINC000096269390, ZINC000035485292, and ZINC000035485242) which were then subjected to molecular dynamics. The findings of this study showed excellent binding affinity and stability toward the Rhodesain and suggest they may be a hopeful treatment for HAT in the future if further clinical trials were performed.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisham A Elrufaie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Gezira, Sudan
| | - Linda M Mohamed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Gezira, Sudan
| | - Aya Y Hamd
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Gezira, Sudan
| | - Noor A Bala
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Gezira, Sudan
| | | | - Hiba Ghaboosh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Gezira, Wad Madani, Sudan
| | - Abdulrahim A Alzain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Gezira, Sudan
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Curvicollide D Isolated from the Fungus Amesia sp. Kills African Trypanosomes by Inhibiting Transcription. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116107. [PMID: 35682786 PMCID: PMC9181715 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleeping sickness or African trypanosomiasis is a serious health concern with an added socio-economic impact in sub-Saharan Africa due to direct infection in both humans and their domestic livestock. There is no vaccine available against African trypanosomes and its treatment relies only on chemotherapy. Although the current drugs are effective, most of them are far from the modern concept of a drug in terms of toxicity, specificity and therapeutic regime. In a search for new molecules with trypanocidal activity, a high throughput screening of 2000 microbial extracts was performed. Fractionation of one of these extracts, belonging to a culture of the fungus Amesia sp., yielded a new member of the curvicollide family that has been designated as curvicollide D. The new compound showed an inhibitory concentration 50 (IC50) 16-fold lower in Trypanosoma brucei than in human cells. Moreover, it induced cell cycle arrest and disruption of the nucleolar structure. Finally, we showed that curvicollide D binds to DNA and inhibits transcription in African trypanosomes, resulting in cell death. These results constitute the first report on the activity and mode of action of a member of the curvicollide family in T. brucei.
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Amilon C, Boberg M, Tarning J, Äbelö A, Ashton M, Jansson-Löfmark R. Population Pharmacodynamic Modeling of Eflornithine-Based Treatments Against Late-Stage Gambiense Human African Trypanosomiasis and Efficacy Predictions of L-eflornithine-Based Therapy. AAPS J 2022; 24:48. [PMID: 35338410 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-022-00693-2] [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: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Eflornithine is a recommended treatment against late-stage gambiense human African trypanosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease. Standard dosing of eflornithine consists of repeated intravenous infusions of a racemic mixture of L- and D-eflornithine. Data from three clinical studies, (i) eflornithine intravenous monotherapy, (ii) nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy, and (iii) eflornithine oral monotherapy, were pooled and analyzed using a time-to-event pharmacodynamic modeling approach, supported by in vitro activity data of the individual enantiomers. Our aim was to assess (i) the efficacy of the eflornithine regimens in a time-to-event analysis and (ii) the feasibility of an L-eflornithine-based therapy integrating clinical and preclinical data. A pharmacodynamic time-to-event model was used to estimate the total dose of eflornithine, associated with 50% reduction in baseline hazard, when administered as monotherapy or in the nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy. The estimated total doses were 159, 60 and 291 g for intravenous eflornithine monotherapy, nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy and oral eflornithine monotherapy, respectively. Simulations suggested that L-eflornithine achieves a higher predicted median survival, compared to when racemate is administered, as treatment against late-stage gambiense human African trypanosomiasis. Our findings showed that oral L-eflornithine-based monotherapy would not result in adequate efficacy, even at high dose, and warrants further investigations to assess the potential of oral L-eflornithine-based treatment in combination with other treatments such as nifurtimox. An all-oral eflornithine-based regimen would provide easier access to treatment and reduce burden on patients and healthcare systems in gambiense human African trypanosomiasis endemic areas. Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl Amilon
- Unit for Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 431, S-405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden.,DMPK, Research and Early Development Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mikael Boberg
- Unit for Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 431, S-405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Joel Tarning
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Angela Äbelö
- Unit for Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 431, S-405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Michael Ashton
- Unit for Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 431, S-405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Rasmus Jansson-Löfmark
- Unit for Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 431, S-405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden. .,DMPK, Research and Early Development Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Therapeutic Efficacy of Orally Administered Nitrofurantoin against Animal African Trypanosomosis Caused by Trypanosoma congolense Infection. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11030331. [PMID: 35335655 PMCID: PMC8956101 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11030331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal African trypanosomosis (AAT) leads to emaciation and low productivity in infected animals. Only six drugs are commercially available against AAT; they have severe side effects and face parasite resistance. Thus, the development of novel trypanocidal drugs is urgently needed. Nitrofurantoin, an antimicrobial, is used for treating bacterial urinary tract infections. Recently, we reported the trypanocidal effects of nitrofurantoin and its analogs in vitro. Furthermore, a nitrofurantoin analog, nifurtimox, is currently used to treat Chagas disease and chronic human African trypanosomiasis. Thus, this study was aimed at evaluating the in vivo efficacy of nitrofurantoin in treating AAT caused by Trypanosoma congolense. Nitrofurantoin was orally administered for 7 consecutive days from 4 days post-infection in T. congolense-infected mice, and the animals were observed for 28 days. Compared to the control group, the treatment group showed significantly suppressed parasitemia at 6 days post-infection. Furthermore, survival was significantly prolonged in the group treated with at least 10 mg/kg nitrofurantoin. Moreover, 100% survival and cure was achieved with a dose of nitrofurantoin higher than 30 mg/kg. Thus, oral nitrofurantoin administration has potential trypanocidal efficacy against T. congolense-induced AAT. This preliminary data will serve as a benchmark when comparing future nitrofurantoin-related compounds, which can overcome the significant shortcomings of nitrofurantoin that preclude its viable use in livestock.
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Kasozi KI, MacLeod ET, Ntulume I, Welburn SC. An Update on African Trypanocide Pharmaceutics and Resistance. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:828111. [PMID: 35356785 PMCID: PMC8959112 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.828111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
African trypanosomiasis is associated with Trypanosoma evansi, T. vivax, T. congolense, and T. brucei pathogens in African animal trypanosomiasis (AAT) while T. b gambiense and T. b rhodesiense are responsible for chronic and acute human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), respectively. Suramin sodium suppresses ATP generation during the glycolytic pathway and is ineffective against T. vivax and T. congolense infections. Resistance to suramin is associated with pathogen altered transport proteins. Melarsoprol binds irreversibly with pyruvate kinase protein sulfhydryl groups and neutralizes enzymes which interrupts the trypanosome ATP generation. Melarsoprol resistance is associated with the adenine-adenosine transporter, P2, due to point mutations within this transporter. Eflornithine is used in combination with nifurtimox. Resistance to eflornithine is caused by the deletion or mutation of TbAAT6 gene which encodes the transmembrane amino acid transporter that delivers eflornithine into the cell, thus loss of transporter protein results in eflornithine resistance. Nifurtimox alone is regarded as a poor trypanocide, however, it is effective in melarsoprol-resistant gHAT patients. Resistance is associated with loss of a single copy of the genes encoding for nitroreductase enzymes. Fexinidazole is recommended for first-stage and non-severe second-stage illnesses in gHAT and resistance is associated with trypanosome bacterial nitroreductases which reduce fexinidazole. In AAT, quinapyramine sulfate interferes with DNA synthesis and suppression of cytoplasmic ribosomal activity in the mitochondria. Quinapyramine sulfate resistance is due to variations in the potential of the parasite's mitochondrial membrane. Pentamidines create cross-links between two adenines at 4–5 pairs apart in adenine-thymine-rich portions of Trypanosoma DNA. It also suppresses type II topoisomerase in the mitochondria of Trypanosoma parasites. Pentamidine resistance is due to loss of mitochondria transport proteins P2 and HAPT1. Diamidines are most effective against Trypanosome brucei group and act via the P2/TbAT1 transporters. Diminazene aceturate resistance is due to mutations that alter the activity of P2, TeDR40 (T. b. evansi). Isometamidium chloride is primarily employed in the early stages of trypanosomiasis and resistance is associated with diminazene resistance. Phenanthridine (homidium bromide, also known as ethidium bromide) acts by a breakdown of the kinetoplast network and homidium resistance is comparable to isometamidium. In humans, the development of resistance and adverse side effects against monotherapies has led to the adoption of nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy. Current efforts to develop new prodrug combinations of nifurtimox and eflornithine and nitroimidazole fexinidazole as well as benzoxaborole SCYX-7158 (AN5568) for HAT are in progress while little comparable progress has been done for the development of novel therapies to address trypanocide resistance in AAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keneth Iceland Kasozi
- Infection Medicine, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- School of Medicine, Kabale University, Kabale, Uganda
- *Correspondence: Keneth Iceland Kasozi ;
| | - Ewan Thomas MacLeod
- Infection Medicine, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Ibrahim Ntulume
- School of Biosecurity Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Susan Christina Welburn
- Infection Medicine, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Joint Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Susan Christina Welburn
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Lascano F, García Bournissen F, Altcheh J. Review of pharmacological options for the treatment of Chagas disease. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2022; 88:383-402. [PMID: 33314266 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease (CD) is a worldwide problem, with over 8 million people infected in both rural and urban areas. CD was first described over a century ago, but only two drugs are currently available for CD treatment: benznidazole (BZN) and nifurtimox (NF). Treating CD-infected patients, especially children and women of reproductive age, is vital in order to prevent long-term sequelae, such as heart and gastrointestinal dysfunction, but this aim is still far from being accomplished. Currently, the strongest data to support benefit-risk considerations come from trials in children. Treatment response biomarkers need further development as serology is being questioned as the best method to assess treatment response. This article is a narrative review on the pharmacology of drugs for CD, particularly BZN and NF. Data on drug biopharmaceutical characteristics, safety and efficacy of both drugs are summarized from a clinical perspective. Current data on alternative compounds under evaluation for CD treatment, and new possible treatment response biomarkers are also discussed. Early diagnosis and treatment of CD, especially in paediatric patients, is vital for an effective and safe use of the available drugs (i.e. BZN and NF). New biomarkers for CD are urgently needed for the diagnosis and evaluation of treatment efficacy, and to guide efforts from academia and pharmaceutical companies to accelerate the process of new drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Lascano
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones en Patologías Pediátricas (IMIPP), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Gobierno de la Ciudad de la Nación Argentina, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Servicio de Parasitología y Chagas, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Facundo García Bournissen
- Division of Pediatric Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, Canada
| | - Jaime Altcheh
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones en Patologías Pediátricas (IMIPP), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Gobierno de la Ciudad de la Nación Argentina, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Servicio de Parasitología y Chagas, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Huberty J, Bhuiyan N, Neher T, Joeman L, Mesa R, Larkey L. Leveraging a Consumer-Based Product to Develop a Cancer-Specific Mobile Meditation App: Prototype Development Study. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e32458. [PMID: 35029528 PMCID: PMC8800087 DOI: 10.2196/32458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile meditation apps may offer a long-term, accessible, and effective solution for ongoing symptom management in cancer patients/survivors. However, there are currently no commercial cancer-specific meditation apps that reflect cancer specialist expertise, input from cancer patients/survivors, and features and content specific to cancer patients’/survivors’ needs. Objective The aim of this study was to gain insight (via surveys, daily journals, and focus groups) from cancer patients/survivors, health care providers, and current subscribers of Calm (a consumer-based mobile meditation app) who were patients/survivors to develop a prototype of a mobile meditation app specifically designed for cancer patients/survivors. Methods Participants were recruited via prior partnerships, word-of-mouth referrals, and recruitment posts on Facebook and Instagram. Cancer patients/survivors and health care providers were instructed to download and use the Calm app for at least 10 minutes a day for 7 days, complete an online daily journal for 7 days, and participate in a virtual focus group (one for cancer patients/survivors and one for providers). Current Calm subscribers who were cancer patients/survivors completed an online survey about different aspects of the Calm app and participated in a third virtual focus group. Data were qualitatively analyzed using a combination of deductive and inductive coding. Results A total of 27 participants (11 cancer patients/survivors, 10 health care providers, 6 current Calm subscribers) completed the study. Similar themes and subthemes were found across surveys, daily journals, and focus groups, and fell into two major categories, content and functionality, with cancer-specific and noncancer-specific themes identified within each category. The majority of content preferences and suggestions that arose were cancer-specific, such as content related to negative emotions or feelings (eg, anxiety, grief, trauma/posttraumatic stress disorder, fear of recurrence, isolation), positive feelings and finding meaning (eg, gratitude, storytelling, acceptance), scenarios and experiences (eg, waiting, treatment-specific mediations), type and stage of cancer journey, and movement modifications. Some of the noncancer-specific themes under app content included sleep, music, and visualizations. In terms of app functionality, the majority of participants expressed interest in having a section/tab/area of the app that was specifically geared toward cancer patients/survivors. Preferences and suggestions for cancer-specific functionality features included options based on symptoms or journey, being able to communicate with other patients or survivors to share suggestions for specific meditations, and having an emergency toolkit for patients/survivors. Conclusions Findings from cancer patients/survivors, health care providers, and current Calm subscribers who were patients/survivors to be incorporated into the development of the prototype fell into two major categories: (1) content of the app and (2) functionality of the app. The prototype’s form and function will be pilot-tested among 30 cancer patients/survivors in a 4-week study, and the resulting feasibility data will be used to inform the final app design and an efficacy study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nishat Bhuiyan
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Taylor Neher
- Research Consultancy, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Lynda Joeman
- Lynda Joeman Research Consultancy, Tonbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Ruben Mesa
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Linda Larkey
- College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
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Abstract
The parasitic trypanosomatids cause lethal and debilitating diseases, the leishmaniases, Chagas disease, and the African trypanosomiases, with major impacts on human and animal health. Sustained research has borne fruit by assisting efforts to reduce the burden of disease and by improving our understanding of fundamental molecular and cell biology. But where has the research primarily been conducted, and which research areas have received the most attention? These questions are addressed below using publication and citation data from the past few decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Horn
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Anti-Infectives Research, Division of Biological Chemistry & Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
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Tempone AG, Pieper P, Borborema SET, Thevenard F, Lago JHG, Croft SL, Anderson EA. Marine alkaloids as bioactive agents against protozoal neglected tropical diseases and malaria. Nat Prod Rep 2021; 38:2214-2235. [PMID: 34913053 PMCID: PMC8672869 DOI: 10.1039/d0np00078g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Covering: 2000 up to 2021Natural products are an important resource in drug discovery, directly or indirectly delivering numerous small molecules for potential development as human medicines. Among the many classes of natural products, alkaloids have a rich history of therapeutic applications. The extensive chemodiversity of alkaloids found in the marine environment has attracted considerable attention for such uses, while the scarcity of these natural materials has stimulated efforts towards their total synthesis. This review focuses on the biological activity of marine alkaloids (covering 2000 to up to 2021) towards Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) caused by protozoan parasites, and malaria. Chemotherapy represents the only form of treatment for Chagas disease, human African trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis and malaria, but there is currently a restricted arsenal of drugs, which often elicit severe adverse effects, show variable efficacy or resistance, or are costly. Natural product scaffolds have re-emerged as a focus of academic drug discovery programmes, offering a different resource to discover new chemical entities with new modes of action. In this review, the potential of a range of marine alkaloids is analyzed, accompanied by coverage of synthetic efforts that enable further studies of key antiprotozoal natural product scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre G Tempone
- Centre for Parasitology and Mycology, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo, 01246-000, Brazil.
| | - Pauline Pieper
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TA, UK.
| | - Samanta E T Borborema
- Centre for Parasitology and Mycology, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo, 01246-000, Brazil.
| | - Fernanda Thevenard
- Centre of Natural Sciences and Humanities, Federal University of ABC, Sao Paulo, 09210-580, Brazil
| | - Joao Henrique G Lago
- Centre of Natural Sciences and Humanities, Federal University of ABC, Sao Paulo, 09210-580, Brazil
| | - Simon L Croft
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK.
| | - Edward A Anderson
- Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3TA, UK.
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Lutje V, Probyn K, Seixas J, Bergman H, Villanueva G. Chemotherapy for second-stage human African trypanosomiasis: drugs in use. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 12:CD015374. [PMID: 34882307 PMCID: PMC8656462 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd015374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human African trypanosomiasis, or sleeping sickness, is a severe disease affecting people in the poorest parts of Africa. It is usually fatal without treatment. Conventional treatments require days of intravenous infusion, but a recently developed drug, fexinidazole, can be given orally. Another oral drug candidate, acoziborole, is undergoing clinical development and will be considered in subsequent editions. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of currently used drugs for treating second-stage Trypanosoma brucei gambiense trypanosomiasis (gambiense human African trypanosomiasis, g-HAT). SEARCH METHODS On 14 May 2021, we searched the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialized Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, Latin American and Caribbean Health Science Information database, BIOSIS, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. We also searched reference lists of included studies, contacted researchers working in the field, and contacted relevant organizations. SELECTION CRITERIA Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials that included adults and children with second-stage g-HAT, treated with anti-trypanosomal drugs currently in use. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors extracted data and assessed risk of bias; a third review author acted as an arbitrator if needed. The included trial only reported dichotomous outcomes, which we presented as risk ratio (RR) or risk difference (RD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). MAIN RESULTS: We included one trial comparing fexinidazole to nifurtimox combined with eflornithine (NECT). This trial was conducted between October 2012 and November 2016 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Central African Republic, and included 394 participants. The study reported on efficacy and safety, with up to 24 months' follow-up. We judged the study to be at low risk of bias in all domains except blinding; as the route of administration and dosing regimens differed between treatment groups, participants and personnel were not blinded, resulting in a high risk of performance bias. Mortality with fexinidazole may be higher at 24 months compared to NECT. There were 9/264 deaths in the fexinidazole group and 2/130 deaths in the NECT group (RR 2.22, 95% CI 0.49 to 10.11; 394 participants; low-certainty evidence). None of the deaths were related to treatment. Fexinidazole likely results in an increase in the number of people relapsing during follow-up, with 14 participants in the fexinidazole group (14/264) and none in the NECT group (0/130) relapsing at 24 months (RD 0.05, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.08; 394 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). We are uncertain whether there is any difference between the drugs regarding the incidence of serious adverse events at 24 months. (31/264 with fexinidazole and 13/130 with NECT group at 24 months). Adverse events were common with both drugs (247/264 with fexinidazole versus 121/130 with NECT), with no difference between groups (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.06; 394 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Oral treatment with fexinidazole is much easier to administer than conventional treatment, but deaths and relapse appear to be more common. However, the advantages or an oral option are considerable, in terms of convenience, avoiding hospitalisation and multiple intravenous infusions, thus increasing adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Lutje
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Jorge Seixas
- Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Global Health and Tropical Medicine R&D Center, NOVA University, Lisbon, Portugal
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Das AM, Chitnis N, Burri C, Paris DH, Patel S, Spencer SEF, Miaka EM, Castaño MS. Modelling the impact of fexinidazole use on human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) transmission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009992. [PMID: 34843475 PMCID: PMC8659363 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gambiense human African trypanosomiasis is a deadly disease that has been declining in incidence since the start of the Century, primarily due to increased screening, diagnosis and treatment of infected people. The main treatment regimen currently in use requires a lumbar puncture as part of the diagnostic process to determine disease stage and hospital admission for drug administration. Fexinidazole is a new oral treatment for stage 1 and non-severe stage 2 human African trypanosomiasis. The World Health Organization has recently incorporated fexinidazole into its treatment guidelines for human African trypanosomiasis. The treatment does not require hospital admission or a lumbar puncture for all patients, which is likely to ease access for patients; however, it does require concomitant food intake, which is likely to reduce adherence. Here, we use a mathematical model calibrated to case and screening data from Mushie territory, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to explore the potential negative impact of poor compliance to an oral treatment, and potential gains to be made from increases in the rate at which patients seek treatment. We find that reductions in compliance in treatment of stage 1 cases are projected to result in the largest increase in further transmission of the disease, with failing to cure stage 2 cases also posing a smaller concern. Reductions in compliance may be offset by increases in the rate at which cases are passively detected. Efforts should therefore be made to ensure good adherence for stage 1 patients to treatment with fexinidazole and to improve access to care. Sleeping sickness is a parasitic disease present in parts of Central and West Africa that is fatal if left untreated. Current case management requires unpleasant procedures such as a lumbar puncture and intravenous drug administration, but has high compliance rates as the treatment is given by hospital staff to patients. In this study, we explore the impact of a new oral treatment on compliance rates for treatment using a mathematical model fitted to data on sleeping sickness cases and screening activities. We also look at the possibility of patients being more likely to seek and access treatment since the new treatment can be used without a lumbar puncture if the patient does not display clinically severe symptoms. We find that reduced compliance, especially from patients suffering from the first less severe stage of the disease, will lead to more sleeping sickness cases and delay elimination, but increases in the number of patients seeking treatment will likely counter effects of reduced compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aatreyee M. Das
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| | - Nakul Chitnis
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Burri
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel H. Paris
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Swati Patel
- Department of Statistics, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Department of Mathematics, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | | | - Erick M. Miaka
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine, Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - M. Soledad Castaño
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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da Rosa R, Dambrós BP, Höehr de Moraes M, Grand L, Jacolot M, Popowycz F, Steindel M, Schenkel EP, Campos Bernardes LS. Natural-product-inspired design and synthesis of two series of compounds active against Trypanosoma cruzi: Insights into structure-activity relationship, toxicity, and mechanism of action. Bioorg Chem 2021; 119:105492. [PMID: 34838333 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.105492] [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: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Chemical scaffolds of natural products have historically been sources of inspiration for the development of novel molecules of biological relevance, including hit and lead compounds. To identify new compounds active against Trypanosoma cruzi, we designed and synthesized 46 synthetic derivatives based on the structure of two classes of natural products: tetrahydrofuran lignans (Series 1) and oxazole alkaloids (Series 2). Compounds were screened in vitro using a cellular model of T. cruzi infection. In the first series of compounds, 11 derivatives of hit compound 5 (EC50 = 1.1 µM) were found to be active; the most potent (7, 8, and 13) had EC50 values of 5.1-34.2 µM. In the second series, 17 analogs were found active at 50 µM; the most potent compounds (47, 49, 59, and 63) showed EC50 values of 24.2-49.1 µM. Active compounds were assessed for selectivity, hemocompatibility, synergistic potential, effects on mitochondrial membrane potential, and inhibitory effect on trypanothione reductase. All active compounds showed low toxicity against uninfected THP-1 cells and human erythrocytes. The potency of compounds 5 and 8 increased steadily in combination with benznidazole, indicating a synergistic effect. Furthermore, compounds 8, 47, 49, 59, and 63 inhibited parasitic mitochondria in a dose-dependent manner. Although increased reactive oxygen species levels might lead to mitochondrial effects, the results indicate that the mechanism of action of the compounds is not dependent on trypanothione reductase inhibition. In silico calculation of chemical descriptors and principal component analysis showed that the active compounds share common chemical features with other trypanocidal molecules and are predicted to have a good ADMET profile. Overall, the results suggest that the compounds are important candidates to be further studied for their potential against T. cruzi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael da Rosa
- Laboratório de Química Farmacêutica Medicinal, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmácia, CCS, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina. Campus Universitário, 88040900, Florianópolis, Brasil; Université de Lyon, INSA Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, CPE Lyon, UMR 5246, ICBMS. 1 rue Victor Grignard, 69621, Villeurbanne Cedex, France.
| | - Bibiana Paula Dambrós
- Laboratório de Protozoologia, CCB, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina. Campus Universitário, 88040900, Florianópolis, Brasil
| | - Milene Höehr de Moraes
- Laboratório de Protozoologia, CCB, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina. Campus Universitário, 88040900, Florianópolis, Brasil
| | - Lucie Grand
- Université de Lyon, INSA Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, CPE Lyon, UMR 5246, ICBMS. 1 rue Victor Grignard, 69621, Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Maïwenn Jacolot
- Université de Lyon, INSA Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, CPE Lyon, UMR 5246, ICBMS. 1 rue Victor Grignard, 69621, Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Florence Popowycz
- Université de Lyon, INSA Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, CPE Lyon, UMR 5246, ICBMS. 1 rue Victor Grignard, 69621, Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Mario Steindel
- Laboratório de Protozoologia, CCB, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina. Campus Universitário, 88040900, Florianópolis, Brasil
| | - Eloir Paulo Schenkel
- Laboratório de Química Farmacêutica Medicinal, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmácia, CCS, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina. Campus Universitário, 88040900, Florianópolis, Brasil
| | - Lílian Sibelle Campos Bernardes
- Laboratório de Química Farmacêutica Medicinal, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmácia, CCS, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina. Campus Universitário, 88040900, Florianópolis, Brasil.
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45
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Kuemmerle A, Schmid C, Bernhard S, Kande V, Mutombo W, Ilunga M, Lumpungu I, Mutanda S, Nganzobo P, Tete DN, Kisala M, Burri C, Blesson S, Valverde Mordt O. Effectiveness of Nifurtimox Eflornithine Combination Therapy (NECT) in T. b. gambiense second stage sleeping sickness patients in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Report from a field study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009903. [PMID: 34748572 PMCID: PMC8601604 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy (NECT) for the treatment of second stage gambiense human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) was added to the World Health Organization’s Essential Medicines List in 2009 after demonstration of its non-inferior efficacy compared to eflornithine therapy. A study of NECT use in the field showed acceptable safety and high efficacy until hospital discharge in a wide population, including children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and patients with a HAT treatment history. We present here the effectiveness results after the 24-month follow-up visit. Methodology/Principal findings In a multicenter, open label, single arm phase IIIb study, second stage gambiense HAT patients were treated with NECT in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Clinical cure was defined 24 months after treatment as survival without clinical and/or parasitological signs of HAT. Of the 629 included patients, 619 (98.4%) were discharged alive after treatment and were examined for the presence of trypanosomes, white blood cell count in cerebro-spinal fluid, and disease symptoms. The clinical cure rate of 94.1% was comparable for all subpopulations analyzed at the 24-month follow-up visit. Self-reported adverse events during follow-up were few and concerned mainly nervous system disorders, infections, and gastro-intestinal disorders. Overall, 28 patients (4.3%) died during the course of the trial. The death of 16 of the 18 patients who died during the follow-up period was assessed as unlikely or not related to NECT. Within 24 months, eight patients (1.3%) relapsed and received rescue treatment. Sixteen patients were completely lost to follow-up. Conclusions/Significance NECT treatment administered under field conditions was effective and sufficiently well tolerated, no major concern arose for children or pregnant or breastfeeding women. Patients with a previous HAT treatment history had the same response as those who were naïve. In conclusion, NECT was confirmed as effective and appropriate for use in a broad population, including vulnerable subpopulations. Trial registration The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00906880. The advanced stage of the neglected tropical disease human African trypanosomiasis was, until relatively recently, treated with an old toxic arsenical drug and there was little investment in an improved treatment option. Eflornithine alone was efficacious, but difficult to administer as it required four two-hour infusions a day for 14 days. Nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy (NECT) was developed as a simplified and easier to use treatment and was shown to be effective and sufficiently well tolerated in a randomized clinical trial. The present study was conducted to assess the overall effectiveness, including the feasibility of implementation of NECT under field conditions in a wider population than in the randomized clinical trial. We found that NECT can be implemented under field conditions and in remote areas, with the necessary logistical support and staff training for treatment administration. Adverse events, although very frequent, were considered acceptable given the severity of the disease. Less than 10% of patients showed severe adverse events. Over 24 months, the case fatality rate was 4.5% and relapses were rare (1.3%). The effectiveness of NECT was confirmed in a broad spectrum of second stage gambiense HAT patients, including children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and patients who had been previously treated for HAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Kuemmerle
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Caecilia Schmid
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sonja Bernhard
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Victor Kande
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Wilfried Mutombo
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Medard Ilunga
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Ismael Lumpungu
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Sylvain Mutanda
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Pathou Nganzobo
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Digas Ngolo Tete
- Programme National de Lutte contre la Trypanosomiase Humaine Africaine (PNLTHA), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mays Kisala
- Bureau Diocesain d’Oeuvres Médicales (BDOM), Kikwit, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Christian Burri
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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46
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Pérez-Molina JA, Crespillo-Andújar C, Bosch-Nicolau P, Molina I. Trypanocidal treatment of Chagas disease. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 39:458-470. [PMID: 34736749 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimce.2020.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Chagas disease is a neglected parasitosis caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. This infection is present in most Latin American countries, although, due to migratory movements, it is a growing cause for concern in non-endemic countries. The only two drugs currently available for its treatment-benznidazole and nifurtimox-were marketed 50 years ago. While they are very effective for acute and recent infection, and for the prevention of maternofoetal transmission, their efficacy declines in people who have chronic infection, especially those older than 18 years of age. In the presence of visceral involvement, parasiticidal treatment is of little or no value. The safety profile of both drugs is far from ideal, with frequent adverse events and high rates of drug discontinuation, mainly in adults. So far, new drugs and new strategies have not been shown to improve the results of the current nitroimidazoles, although the results are promising. In this review, we focus on the aspects that allow clinicians to make the best use of currently available drugs. In addition, we discuss new therapeutic options and ongoing research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose A Pérez-Molina
- National Referral Centre for Tropical Diseases, Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Clara Crespillo-Andújar
- National Referral Centre for Tropical Diseases, Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pau Bosch-Nicolau
- Tropical Medicine Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Israel Molina
- Tropical Medicine Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Instituto René Rachou-FIOCRUZ Minas, Chagas Disease Research Group, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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47
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Meier L, Casagrande G, Dietler D. The Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute: Past, present and future. Acta Trop 2021; 223:106077. [PMID: 34358511 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Compared internationally, the history of the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) is unusual. Founded in 1944, at a time of utmost isolation, it was a response to specific needs of the government of Switzerland during the Second World War. In 1943, the Swiss Federal Council approached universities in Switzerland and asked them to submit project proposal that had the potential to mitigate possible post-war unemployment and threatening economic isolation. Members of the University of Basel proposed to establish a Swiss Tropical Institute (today: Swiss TPH). With its harbour at the River Rhine, Basel was an important international transport hub. The city was and still is the headquarters of important pharmaceutical companies, such as Novartis Pharma AG and F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, which were looking for new markets overseas. Last but not least, scientific expeditions to Africa were rather common in the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century for members of Basel's bourgeoisie. Initially, Swiss TPH focused primarily on basic research into diseases of poverty, but over the years it has developed into an important player in public, international and global health. This article sees the development of the institute as a reflection of the visions of its directors from the founder Professor Rudolf Geigy to Professor Jürg Utzinger, who is the current Swiss TPH director. It includes interviews with the four latest of them, discussing their experiences and attempts to adapt the institute to an ever changing global environment. From these lessons learnt we hope to gain insights that could be relevant for today's leaders of scientific institutes; foster public-private partnerships and contribute to solve some of the most pressing global health challenges.
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48
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Steketee PC, Giordani F, Vincent IM, Crouch K, Achcar F, Dickens NJ, Morrison LJ, MacLeod A, Barrett MP. Transcriptional differentiation of Trypanosoma brucei during in vitro acquisition of resistance to acoziborole. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009939. [PMID: 34752454 PMCID: PMC8648117 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Subspecies of the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei are the causative agents of Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), a debilitating neglected tropical disease prevalent across sub-Saharan Africa. HAT case numbers have steadily decreased since the start of the century, and sustainable elimination of one form of the disease is in sight. However, key to this is the development of novel drugs to combat the disease. Acoziborole is a recently developed benzoxaborole, currently in advanced clinical trials, for treatment of stage 1 and stage 2 HAT. Importantly, acoziborole is orally bioavailable, and curative with one dose. Recent studies have made significant progress in determining the molecular mode of action of acoziborole. However, less is known about the potential mechanisms leading to acoziborole resistance in trypanosomes. In this study, an in vitro-derived acoziborole-resistant cell line was generated and characterised. The AcoR line exhibited significant cross-resistance with the methyltransferase inhibitor sinefungin as well as hypersensitisation to known trypanocides. Interestingly, transcriptomics analysis of AcoR cells indicated the parasites had obtained a procyclic- or stumpy-like transcriptome profile, with upregulation of procyclin surface proteins as well as differential regulation of key metabolic genes known to be expressed in a life cycle-specific manner, even in the absence of major morphological changes. However, no changes were observed in transcripts encoding CPSF3, the recently identified protein target of acoziborole. The results suggest that generation of resistance to this novel compound in vitro can be accompanied by transcriptomic switches resembling a procyclic- or stumpy-type phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pieter C. Steketee
- The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, United Kingdom
| | - Federica Giordani
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Isabel M. Vincent
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn Crouch
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona Achcar
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas J. Dickens
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Liam J. Morrison
- The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, United Kingdom
| | - Annette MacLeod
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Michael P. Barrett
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Glasgow Polyomics, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
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49
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Abstract
Trypanosoma brucei belongs to a genus of protists that cause life-threatening and economically important diseases of human and animal populations in Sub-Saharan Africa. T. brucei cells are covered in surface glycoproteins, some of which are used to escape the host immune system. Exo-/endocytotic trafficking of these and other molecules occurs via a single copy organelle called the flagellar pocket (FP). The FP is maintained and enclosed around the flagellum by the flagellar pocket collar (FPC). To date, the most important cytoskeletal component of the FPC is an essential calcium-binding, polymer-forming protein called TbBILBO1. In searching for novel tools to study this protein, we raised nanobodies (Nb) against purified, full-length TbBILBO1. Nanobodies were selected according to their binding properties to TbBILBO1, tested as immunofluorescence tools, and expressed as intrabodies (INb). One of them, Nb48, proved to be the most robust nanobody and intrabody. We further demonstrate that inducible, cytoplasmic expression of INb48 was lethal to these parasites, producing abnormal phenotypes resembling those of TbBILBO1 RNA interference (RNAi) knockdown. Our results validate the feasibility of generating functional single-domain antibody-derived intrabodies to target trypanosome cytoskeleton proteins. IMPORTANCETrypanosoma brucei belongs to a group of important zoonotic parasites. We investigated how these organisms develop their cytoskeleton (the internal skeleton that controls cell shape) and focused on an essential protein (BILBO1) first described in T. brucei. To develop our analysis, we used purified BILBO1 protein to immunize an alpaca to make nanobodies (Nb). Nanobodies are derived from the antigen-binding portion of a novel antibody type found only in the camel and shark families of animals. Anti-BILBO1 nanobodies were obtained, and their encoding genes were inducibly expressed within the cytoplasm of T. brucei as intrabodies (INb). Importantly, INb48 expression rapidly killed parasites producing phenotypes normally observed after RNA knockdown, providing clear proof of principle. The importance of this study is derived from this novel approach, which can be used to study neglected and emerging pathogens as well as new model organisms, especially those that do not have the RNAi system.
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50
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Fino R, Lenhart D, Kalel VC, Softley CA, Napolitano V, Byrne R, Schliebs W, Dawidowski M, Erdmann R, Sattler M, Schneider G, Plettenburg O, Popowicz GM. Computer-Aided Design and Synthesis of a New Class of PEX14 Inhibitors: Substituted 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydrobenzo[F][1,4]oxazepines as Potential New Trypanocidal Agents. J Chem Inf Model 2021; 61:5256-5268. [PMID: 34597510 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.1c00472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
African and American trypanosomiases are estimated to affect several million people across the world, with effective treatments distinctly lacking. New, ideally oral, treatments with higher efficacy against these diseases are desperately needed. Peroxisomal import matrix (PEX) proteins represent a very interesting target for structure- and ligand-based drug design. The PEX5-PEX14 protein-protein interface in particular has been highlighted as a target, with inhibitors shown to disrupt essential cell processes in trypanosomes, leading to cell death. In this work, we present a drug development campaign that utilizes the synergy between structural biology, computer-aided drug design, and medicinal chemistry in the quest to discover and develop new potential compounds to treat trypanosomiasis by targeting the PEX14-PEX5 interaction. Using the structure of the known lead compounds discovered by Dawidowski et al. as the template for a chemically advanced template search (CATS) algorithm, we performed scaffold-hopping to obtain a new class of compounds with trypanocidal activity, based on 2,3,4,5-tetrahydrobenzo[f][1,4]oxazepines chemistry. The initial compounds obtained were taken forward to a first round of hit-to-lead optimization by synthesis of derivatives, which show activities in the range of low- to high-digit micromolar IC50 in the in vitro tests. The NMR measurements confirm binding to PEX14 in solution, while immunofluorescent microscopy indicates disruption of protein import into the glycosomes, indicating that the PEX14-PEX5 protein-protein interface was successfully disrupted. These studies result in development of a novel scaffold for future lead optimization, while ADME testing gives an indication of further areas of improvement in the path from lead molecules toward a new drug active against trypanosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Fino
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.,Biomolecular NMR, Bayerisches NMR Zentrum and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Chemistry Department, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85747 Garching, Germany
| | - Dominik Lenhart
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.,Biomolecular NMR, Bayerisches NMR Zentrum and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Chemistry Department, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85747 Garching, Germany.,Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.,Institute of Organic Chemistry, Center of Biomolecular Drug Research (BMWZ), Leibniz Universität Hannover, Schneiderberg 1b, 30167 Hannover, Germany
| | - Vishal C Kalel
- Institute of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Department of Systems Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Charlotte A Softley
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.,Biomolecular NMR, Bayerisches NMR Zentrum and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Chemistry Department, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85747 Garching, Germany
| | - Valeria Napolitano
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.,Biomolecular NMR, Bayerisches NMR Zentrum and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Chemistry Department, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85747 Garching, Germany
| | - Ryan Byrne
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang Schliebs
- Institute of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Department of Systems Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Maciej Dawidowski
- Department of Drug Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ralf Erdmann
- Institute of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Department of Systems Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Michael Sattler
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.,Biomolecular NMR, Bayerisches NMR Zentrum and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Chemistry Department, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85747 Garching, Germany
| | - Gisbert Schneider
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Plettenburg
- Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.,Institute of Organic Chemistry, Center of Biomolecular Drug Research (BMWZ), Leibniz Universität Hannover, Schneiderberg 1b, 30167 Hannover, Germany
| | - Grzegorz M Popowicz
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.,Biomolecular NMR, Bayerisches NMR Zentrum and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Chemistry Department, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85747 Garching, Germany
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