1
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Quan J, Yan H, Periyasami G, Li H. A Visible-Light Regulated ATP Transport in Retinal-Modified Pillar[6]arene Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembled Sub-Nanochannel. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202401045. [PMID: 38693094 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202401045] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Natural light-responsive rhodopsins play a critical role in visual conversion, signal transduction, energy transmission, etc., which has aroused extensive interest in the past decade. Inspired by these gorgeous works of living beings, scientists have constructed various biomimetic light-responsive nanochannels to mimic the behaviors of rhodopsins. However, it is still challenging to build stimuli-responsive sub-nanochannels only regulated by visible light as the rhodopsins are always at the sub-nanometer level and regulated by visible light. Pillar[6]arenes have an open cavity of 6.7 Å, which can selectively recognize small organic molecules. They can be connected to ions of ammonium or carboxylate groups on the rims. Therefore, we designed and synthesized the amino and carboxyl-derived side chains of pillar[6]arenes with opposite charges. The sub-nanochannels were constructed through the electrostatic interaction of layer-by-layer self-assembled amino and carboxyl-derived pillar[6]arenes. Then, the natural chromophore of the retinal with visible light-responsive performance was modified on the upper edge of the sub-nanochannel to realize the visible light switched on and off. Finally, we successfully constructed a visible light-responsive sub-nanochannel, providing a novel method for regulating the selective transport of energy-donating molecules of ATP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Quan
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Hanjiang Normal University, Shiyan, 442000, China
| | - Hewei Yan
- Key Laboratory of Jiangxi Province for Persistent Pollutants Control and Resources Recycle, Nanchang Hangkong University, Nanchang, 330063, P.R. China
| | - Govindasami Periyasami
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O.Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haibing Li
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P.R. China
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2
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Azrad Leibovitch T, Farah N, Markus A, Mandel Y. A novel GCaMP6f-RCS rat model for studying electrical stimulation in the degenerated retina. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1386141. [PMID: 38711618 PMCID: PMC11070775 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1386141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Retinal prostheses aim to restore vision by electrically stimulating the remaining viable retinal cells in Retinal Degeneration (RD) cases. Research in this field necessitates a comprehensive analysis of retinal ganglion cells' (RGCs) responses to assess the obtained visual acuity and quality. Here we present a novel animal model which facilitates the optical recording of RGCs activity in an RD rat. This model can significantly enhance the functional evaluation of vision restoration treatments. Methods: The development of the novel rat model is based on crossbreeding a retinal degenerated Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rat with a transgenic line expressing the genetic calcium indicator GCaMP6f in the RGCs. Characterization of the model was achieved using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) imaging, histology, and electroretinography (ERG) at the ages of 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Additionally, optical recordings of RGCs function in response to ex-vivo subretinal electrical stimulations were performed. Results: Histological investigations confirmed the high expression of GCaMP6f in the RGCs and minimal expression in the inner nuclear layer (INL). OCT imaging and histological studies revealed the expected gradual retinal degeneration, as evident by the decrease in retinal thickness with age and the formation of subretinal debris. This degeneration was further confirmed by ERG recordings, which demonstrated a significant decrease in the b-wave amplitude throughout the degeneration process, culminating in its absence at 12 weeks in the GCaMP6f-RCS rat. Importantly, the feasibility of investigating subretinal stimulation was demonstrated, revealing a consistent increase in activation threshold throughout degeneration. Furthermore, an increase in the diameter of the activated area with increasing currents was observed. The spatial spread of the activation area in the GCaMP6f-RCS rat was found to be smaller and exhibited faster activation dynamics compared with the GCaMP6f-LE strain. Conclusion: This novel animal model offers an opportunity to deepen our understanding of prosthetically induced retinal responses, potentially leading to significant advancements in prosthetic interventions in visual impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Azrad Leibovitch
- Bar Ilan Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials (BINA), Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Optometry and Visual Science, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Nairouz Farah
- Bar Ilan Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials (BINA), Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Optometry and Visual Science, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Amos Markus
- Bar Ilan Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials (BINA), Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Optometry and Visual Science, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Yossi Mandel
- Bar Ilan Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials (BINA), Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Optometry and Visual Science, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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3
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Dehiwala Liyanage C, Ortiz-Garcia JJ, Struckmeier A, McCoy CL, Kienzler MA, Quardokus RC. A Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Study of the Photoisomerization of Diazocine. J Phys Chem Lett 2024; 15:4082-4087. [PMID: 38587451 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.4c00096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Azobenzenes are fascinating molecular machines that can reversibly transform between two isomeric forms by an external stimulus. Diazocine, a type of bridged azobenzene, has been shown to possess enhanced photoexcitation properties. Due to the distortion caused by the ethyl bridge in the E-isomer, the Z-form becomes the thermodynamically stable configuration. Despite a comprehensive understanding of its photophysical properties, there is still much to learn about the behavior of diazocine on a metal surface. Here we show the operando photoswitching of diazocine molecules deposited directly on a Au(111) surface using scanning tunneling microscopy. Molecules were shown to aggregate into disordered islands with edge sites being susceptible to photon-induced movement. A few molecules were shown to undergo directional movement under UV irradiation with the motion reversed under blue light exposure. These findings contribute new insight into the activity of single and ensemble molecular systems toward purposefully guided motion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José J Ortiz-Garcia
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Annalena Struckmeier
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Christian L McCoy
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Michael A Kienzler
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Rebecca C Quardokus
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
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4
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Ren H, Cheng Y, Wen G, Wang J, Zhou M. Emerging optogenetics technologies in biomedical applications. SMART MEDICINE 2023; 2:e20230026. [PMID: 39188295 PMCID: PMC11235740 DOI: 10.1002/smmd.20230026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Optogenetics is a cutting-edge technology that merges light control and genetics to achieve targeted control of tissue cells. Compared to traditional methods, optogenetics offers several advantages in terms of time and space precision, accuracy, and reduced damage to the research object. Currently, optogenetics is primarily used in pathway research, drug screening, gene expression regulation, and the stimulation of molecule release to treat various diseases. The selection of light-sensitive proteins is the most crucial aspect of optogenetic technology; structural changes occur or downstream channels are activated to achieve signal transmission or factor release, allowing efficient and controllable disease treatment. In this review, we examine the extensive research conducted in the field of biomedicine concerning optogenetics, including the selection of light-sensitive proteins, the study of carriers and delivery devices, and the application of disease treatment. Additionally, we offer critical insights and future implications of optogenetics in the realm of clinical medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haozhen Ren
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryHepatobiliary InstituteNanjing Drum Tower HospitalMedical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Yi Cheng
- Department of Vascular SurgeryThe Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolNanjingChina
| | - Gaolin Wen
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryHepatobiliary InstituteNanjing Drum Tower HospitalMedical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Jinglin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary SurgeryHepatobiliary InstituteNanjing Drum Tower HospitalMedical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Min Zhou
- Department of Vascular SurgeryThe Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolNanjingChina
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5
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Kerschensteiner D. Losing, preserving, and restoring vision from neurodegeneration in the eye. Curr Biol 2023; 33:R1019-R1036. [PMID: 37816323 PMCID: PMC10575673 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.08.044] [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] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
The retina is a part of the brain that sits at the back of the eye, looking out onto the world. The first neurons of the retina are the rod and cone photoreceptors, which convert changes in photon flux into electrical signals that are the basis of vision. Rods and cones are frequent targets of heritable neurodegenerative diseases that cause visual impairment, including blindness, in millions of people worldwide. This review summarizes the diverse genetic causes of inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) and their convergence onto common pathogenic mechanisms of vision loss. Currently, there are few effective treatments for IRDs, but recent advances in disparate areas of biology and technology (e.g., genome editing, viral engineering, 3D organoids, optogenetics, semiconductor arrays) discussed here enable promising efforts to preserve and restore vision in IRD patients with implications for neurodegeneration in less approachable brain areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Kerschensteiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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6
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Sharif NA. Electrical, Electromagnetic, Ultrasound Wave Therapies, and Electronic Implants for Neuronal Rejuvenation, Neuroprotection, Axonal Regeneration, and IOP Reduction. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2023; 39:477-498. [PMID: 36126293 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2022.0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The peripheral nervous system (PNS) of mammals and nervous systems of lower organisms possess significant regenerative potential. In contrast, although neural plasticity can provide some compensation, the central nervous system (CNS) neurons and nerves of adult mammals generally fail to regenerate after an injury or damage. However, use of diverse electrical, electromagnetic and sonographic energy waves are illuminating novel ways to stimulate neuronal differentiation, proliferation, neurite growth, and axonal elongation/regeneration leading to various levels of functional recovery in animals and humans afflicted with disorders of the CNS, PNS, retina, and optic nerve. Tools such as acupuncture, electroacupuncture, electroshock therapy, electrical stimulation, transcranial magnetic stimulation, red light therapy, and low-intensity pulsed ultrasound therapy are demonstrating efficacy in treating many different maladies. These include wound healing, partial recovery from motor dysfunctions, recovery from ischemic/reperfusion insults and CNS and ocular remyelination, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) rejuvenation, and RGC axonal regeneration. Neural rejuvenation and axonal growth/regeneration processes involve activation or intensifying of the intrinsic bioelectric waves (action potentials) that exist in every neuronal circuit of the body. In addition, reparative factors released at the nerve terminals and via neuronal dendrites (transmitter substances), extracellular vesicles containing microRNAs and neurotrophins, and intercellular communication occurring via nanotubes aid in reestablishing lost or damaged connections between the traumatized tissues and the PNS and CNS. Many other beneficial effects of the aforementioned treatment paradigms are mediated via gene expression alterations such as downregulation of inflammatory and death-signal genes and upregulation of neuroprotective and cytoprotective genes. These varied techniques and technologies will be described and discussed covering cell-based and animal model-based studies. Data from clinical applications and linkage to human ocular diseases will also be discussed where relevant translational research has been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najam A Sharif
- Global Alliances and External Research, Ophthalmology Innovation Center, Santen Inc., Emeryville, California, USA
- Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI), Singapore
- SingHealth Duke-NUS Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College of Science and Technology, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Sciences, Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Insitute of Ophthalmology, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom
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7
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Bakhtiiari A, Costa GJ, Liang R. On the Simulation of Thermal Isomerization of Molecular Photoswitches in Biological Systems. J Chem Theory Comput 2023; 19:6484-6499. [PMID: 37607344 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.3c00451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Molecular photoswitches offer precise, reversible photocontrol over biomolecular functions and are promising light-regulated drug candidates with minimal side effects. Quantifying thermal isomerization rates of photoswitches in their target biomolecules is essential for fine-tuning their light-controlled drug activity. However, the effects of protein binding on isomerization kinetics remain poorly understood, and simulations are crucial for filling this gap. Challenges in the simulation include describing multireference electronic structures near transition states, disentangling competing reaction pathways, and sampling protein-ligand interactions. To overcome these challenges, we used multiscale simulations to characterize the thermal isomerization of photostatins (PSTs), which are light-regulated microtubule inhibitors for potential cancer phototherapy. We employed a new ab initio multireference electronic structure method in a quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics setting and combined it with enhanced sampling techniques to characterize the cis to trans free-energy profiles of three PSTs in a vacuum, aqueous solution, and tubulin dimer. The significant advantage of our novel approach is the efficient treatment of the multireference character in PSTs' electronic wavefunction throughout the conformational sampling of protein-ligand interactions along their isomerization pathways. We also benchmarked our calculations using high-level ab initio multireference electronic structure methods and explored the competing isomerization pathways. Notably, calculations in a vacuum and implicit solvent models cannot predict the order of the PSTs' thermal half-lives in the aqueous solution observed in the experiment. Only by explicitly treating the solvent molecules can the correct order of isomerization kinetics be reproduced. Protein binding perturbs free-energy barriers due to hydrogen bonding between PSTs and nearby polar residues. Our work generates comprehensive, high-quality benchmark data and offers guidance for selecting computational methods to study the thermal isomerization of photoswitches. Ab initio multireference free-energy calculations in explicit molecular environments are crucial for predicting the effects of substituents on the thermal half-lives of photoswitches in biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Bakhtiiari
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79409, United States
| | - Gustavo J Costa
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79409, United States
| | - Ruibin Liang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79409, United States
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8
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Schilardi G, Kralik J, Kleinlogel S. Selective Block of Upregulated Kv1.3 Potassium Channels in ON-Bipolar Cells of the Blind Retina Enhances Optogenetically Restored Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14207. [PMID: 37762510 PMCID: PMC10531754 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814207] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Loss of photoreceptors in retinal degenerative diseases also impacts the inner retina: bipolar cell dendrites retract, neurons rewire, and protein expression changes. ON-bipolar cells (OBCs) represent an attractive target for optogenetic vision restoration. However, the above-described maladaptations may negatively impact the quality of restored vision. To investigate this question, we employed human post-mortem retinas and transgenic rd1_Opto-mGluR6 mice expressing the optogenetic construct Opto-mGluR6 in OBCs and carrying the retinal degeneration rd1 mutation. We found significant changes in delayed rectifier potassium channel expression in OBCs of degenerative retinas. In particular, we found an increase in Kv1.3 expression already in early stages of degeneration. Immunohistochemistry localized Kv1.3 channels specifically to OBC axons. In whole-cell patch-clamp experiments, OBCs in the degenerated murine retina were less responsive, which could be reversed by application of the specific Kv1.3 antagonist Psora-4. Notably, Kv1.3 block significantly increased the amplitude and kinetics of Opto-mGluR6-mediated light responses in OBCs of the blind retina and increased the signal-to-noise ratio of light-triggered responses in retinal ganglion cells. We propose that reduction in Kv1.3 activity in the degenerated retina, either by pharmacological block or by KCNA3 gene silencing, could improve the quality of restored vision.
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9
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Kramer RH. Suppressing Retinal Remodeling to Mitigate Vision Loss in Photoreceptor Degenerative Disorders. Annu Rev Vis Sci 2023; 9:131-153. [PMID: 37713276 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-vision-112122-020957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Rod and cone photoreceptors degenerate in retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration, robbing the visual system of light-triggered signals necessary for sight. However, changes in the retina do not stop with the photoreceptors. A stereotypical set of morphological and physiological changes, known as remodeling, occur in downstream retinal neurons. Some aspects of remodeling are homeostatic, with structural or functional changes compensating for partial loss of visual inputs. However, other aspects are nonhomeostatic, corrupting retinal information processing to obscure vision mediated naturally by surviving photoreceptors or artificially by vision-restoration technologies. In this review, I consider the mechanism of remodeling and its consequences for residual and restored visual function; discuss the role of retinoic acid, a critical molecular trigger of detrimental remodeling; and discuss strategies for suppressing retinoic acid biosynthesis or signaling as therapeutic possibilities for mitigating vision loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard H Kramer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, USA;
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10
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Pavošević F, Tavernelli I, Rubio A. Spin-Flip Unitary Coupled Cluster Method: Toward Accurate Description of Strong Electron Correlation on Quantum Computers. J Phys Chem Lett 2023; 14:7876-7882. [PMID: 37639229 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.3c01935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Quantum computers have emerged as a promising platform to simulate strong electron correlation that is crucial to catalysis and photochemistry. However, owing to the choice of a trial wave function employed in the variational quantum eigensolver (VQE) algorithm, accurate simulation is restricted to certain classes of correlated phenomena. Herein, we combine the spin-flip (SF) formalism with the unitary coupled cluster with singles and doubles (UCCSD) method via the quantum equation-of-motion (qEOM) approach to allow for an efficient simulation of a large family of strongly correlated problems. We show that the developed qEOM-SF-UCCSD/VQE method outperforms its UCCSD/VQE counterpart for simulation of the cis-trans isomerization of ethylene, and the automerization of cyclobutadiene and the predicted qEOM-SF-UCCSD/VQE barrier heights are in a good agreement with the experimentally determined values. The developments presented herein will further stimulate the investigation of this approach for simulations of other types of correlated/entangled phenomena on quantum computers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabijan Pavošević
- Algorithmiq Ltd., Kanavakatu 3C, FI-00160 Helsinki, Finland
- Center for Computational Quantum Physics, Flatiron Institute, 162 Fifth Ave., New York, New York 10010, United States
| | | | - Angel Rubio
- Center for Computational Quantum Physics, Flatiron Institute, 162 Fifth Ave., New York, New York 10010, United States
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science and Department of Physics, Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
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11
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Liyanage CD, Ortiz-Garcia JJ, Struckmeier A, Kienzler M, Quardokus RC. Light-induced Photoswitching of 4-(Phenylazo)benzoic Acid on Au(111). Chemphyschem 2023; 24:e202300160. [PMID: 37369072 DOI: 10.1002/cphc.202300160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Photochromic molecules can undergo a reversible conversion between two isomeric forms upon exposure to external stimuli such as electromagnetic radiation. A significant physical transformation accompanying the photoisomerization process defines them as photoswitches, with potential applications in various molecular electronic devices. As such, a detailed understanding of the photoisomerization process on surfaces and the influence of the local chemical environment on switching efficiency is essential. Herein, we use scanning tunneling microscopy to observe the photoisomerization of 4-(phenylazo)benzoic acid (PABA) assembled on Au(111) in kinetically constrained metastable states guided by pulse deposition. Photoswitching is observed at low molecular density and is absent in tight-packed islands. Furthermore, switching events were noted in PABA molecules coadsorbed in a host octanethiol monolayer, suggesting an influence of the surrounding chemical environment on photoswitching efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José J Ortiz-Garcia
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, 55 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Annalena Struckmeier
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, 55 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Michael Kienzler
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, 55 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Rebecca C Quardokus
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, 55 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT, USA
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12
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Sezgin B, Liu J, N. Gonçalves DP, Zhu C, Tilki T, Prévôt ME, Hegmann T. Controlling the Structure and Morphology of Organic Nanofilaments Using External Stimuli. ACS NANOSCIENCE AU 2023; 3:295-309. [PMID: 37601923 PMCID: PMC10436377 DOI: 10.1021/acsnanoscienceau.3c00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
In our continuing pursuit to generate, understand, and control the morphology of organic nanofilaments formed by molecules with a bent molecular shape, we here report on two bent-core molecules specifically designed to permit a phase or morphology change upon exposure to an applied electric field or irradiation with UV light. To trigger a response to an applied electric field, conformationally rigid chiral (S,S)-2,3-difluorooctyloxy side chains were introduced, and to cause a response to UV light, an azobenzene core was incorporated into one of the arms of the rigid bent core. The phase behavior as well as structure and morphology of the formed phases and nanofilaments were analyzed using differential scanning calorimetry, cross-polarized optical microscopy, circular dichroism spectropolarimetry, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, UV-vis spectrophotometry, as well as X-ray diffraction experiments. Both bent-core molecules were characterized by the coexistence of two nanoscale morphologies, specifically helical nanofilaments (HNFs) and layered nanocylinders, prior to exposure to an external stimulus and independent of the cooling rate from the isotropic liquid. The application of an electric field triggers the disappearance of crystalline nanofilaments and instead leads to the formation of a tilted smectic liquid crystal phase for the material featuring chiral difluorinated side chains, whereas irradiation with UV light results in the disappearance of the nanocylinders and the sole formation of HNFs for the azobenzene-containing material. Combined results of this experimental study reveal that in addition to controlling the rate of cooling, applied electric fields and UV irradiation can be used to expand the toolkit for structural and morphological control of suitably designed bent-core molecule-based structures at the nanoscale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barış Sezgin
- Department
of Chemistry, Süleyman Demirel University, 32260 Isparta, Çünür, Turkey
- Advanced
Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242 United States
| | - Jiao Liu
- Advanced
Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242 United States
- Materials
Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242 United States
| | - Diana P. N. Gonçalves
- Advanced
Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242 United States
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kent State
University, Kent, Ohio 44242 United States
| | - Chenhui Zhu
- Advanced
Light Source, Lawrence Berkeley National
Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720 United States
| | - Tahir Tilki
- Department
of Chemistry, Süleyman Demirel University, 32260 Isparta, Çünür, Turkey
| | - Marianne E. Prévôt
- Advanced
Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242 United States
| | - Torsten Hegmann
- Advanced
Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242 United States
- Materials
Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242 United States
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kent State
University, Kent, Ohio 44242 United States
- Brain Health
Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242 United States
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13
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Dolai A, Box SM, Bhunia S, Bera S, Das A, Samanta S. Photoisomerization of 2-Arylazoimidazoles under Visible Light: Identifying a Predictive Tool to Anticipate and Tune Likely Photoswitching Performance and Cis Half-Life. J Org Chem 2023. [PMID: 37368413 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.3c00211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Azopyrazoles are an emerging class of photoswitches, whereas analogous azoimidazole-based switches are unable to draw much attention because of their short cis half-lives, poor cis-trans photoreversion yields, and toxic ultraviolet (UV) light-assisted isomerization. A series of 24 various aryl-substituted N-methyl-2-arylazoimidazoles were synthesized, and their photoswitching performances and cis-trans isomerization kinetics were thoroughly investigated experimentally and theoretically. Para-π-donor-substituted azoimidazoles with highly twisted T-shaped cis conformations showed nearly complete bidirectional photoswitching, whereas di-o-substituted switches exhibited very long cis half-lives (days-years) with nearly ideal T-shaped conformations. This study demonstrates how the electron density in the aryl ring affects cis half-life and cis-trans photoreversion via twisting of the NNAr dihedral angle that can be used as a predictive metric for envisaging and tuning the likely switching performance and half-life of any given 2-arylazoimidazole. By applying this tool, two better-performing azoimidazole photoswitches were engineered. All switches permitted irradiation by violet (400-405 nm) and orange (>585 nm) light for forward and reverse isomerization, respectively, and displayed comparatively high quantum yields and impressive resistance to photobleaching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Dolai
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calcutta, 92, A. P. C. Road, Kolkata 700009, West Bengal, India
| | - Sk Majid Box
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calcutta, 92, A. P. C. Road, Kolkata 700009, West Bengal, India
| | - Supriya Bhunia
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calcutta, 92, A. P. C. Road, Kolkata 700009, West Bengal, India
| | - Satyajit Bera
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calcutta, 92, A. P. C. Road, Kolkata 700009, West Bengal, India
| | - Arpan Das
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calcutta, 92, A. P. C. Road, Kolkata 700009, West Bengal, India
| | - Subhas Samanta
- Department of Chemistry, University of Calcutta, 92, A. P. C. Road, Kolkata 700009, West Bengal, India
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14
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Zufiaurre-Seijo M, García-Arumí J, Duarri A. Clinical and Molecular Aspects of C2orf71/PCARE in Retinal Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10670. [PMID: 37445847 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310670] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the photoreceptor-specific C2orf71 gene (also known as photoreceptor cilium actin regulator protein PCARE) cause autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa type 54 and cone-rod dystrophy. No treatments are available for patients with C2orf71 retinal ciliopathies exhibiting a severe clinical phenotype. Our understanding of the disease process and the role of PCARE in the healthy retina significantly limits our capacity to transfer recent technical developments into viable therapy choices. This study summarizes the current understanding of C2orf71-related retinal diseases, including their clinical manifestations and an unclear genotype-phenotype correlation. It discusses molecular and functional studies on the photoreceptor-specific ciliary PCARE, focusing on the photoreceptor cell and its ciliary axoneme. It is proposed that PCARE is an actin-associated protein that interacts with WASF3 to regulate the actin-driven expansion of the ciliary membrane during the development of a new outer segment disk in photoreceptor cells. This review also introduces various cellular and animal models used to model these diseases and provides an overview of potential treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalen Zufiaurre-Seijo
- Ophthalmology Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - José García-Arumí
- Ophthalmology Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Duarri
- Ophthalmology Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
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15
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Toms M, Ward N, Moosajee M. Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 2 Group E Member 3 (NR2E3): Role in Retinal Development and Disease. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1325. [PMID: 37510230 PMCID: PMC10379133 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
NR2E3 is a nuclear hormone receptor gene required for the correct development of the retinal rod photoreceptors. Expression of NR2E3 protein in rod cell precursors suppresses cone-specific gene expression and, in concert with other transcription factors including NRL, activates the expression of rod-specific genes. Pathogenic variants involving NR2E3 cause a spectrum of retinopathies, including enhanced S-cone syndrome, Goldmann-Favre syndrome, retinitis pigmentosa, and clumped pigmentary retinal degeneration, with limited evidence of genotype-phenotype correlations. A common feature of NR2E3-related disease is an abnormally high number of cone photoreceptors that are sensitive to short wavelength light, the S-cones. This characteristic has been supported by mouse studies, which have also revealed that loss of Nr2e3 function causes photoreceptors to develop as cells that are intermediate between rods and cones. While there is currently no available cure for NR2E3-related retinopathies, there are a number of emerging therapeutic strategies under investigation, including the use of viral gene therapy and gene editing, that have shown promise for the future treatment of patients with NR2E3 variants and other inherited retinal diseases. This review provides a detailed overview of the current understanding of the role of NR2E3 in normal development and disease, and the associated clinical phenotypes, animal models, and therapeutic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Toms
- Development, Ageing and Disease, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Ocular Genomics and Therapeutics, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Natasha Ward
- Development, Ageing and Disease, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- Development, Ageing and Disease, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Ocular Genomics and Therapeutics, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Genetics, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London EC1V 2PD, UK
- Department of Ophthalmology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
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16
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Yan B, Viswanathan S, Brodie SE, Deng WT, Coleman KE, Hauswirth WW, Nirenberg S. A clinically viable approach to restoring visual function using optogenetic gene therapy. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 29:406-417. [PMID: 37251979 PMCID: PMC10213293 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.05.005] [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: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetic gene therapies offer a promising strategy for restoring vision to patients with retinal degenerative diseases, such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Several clinical trials have begun in this area using different vectors and optogenetic proteins (Clinical Identifiers: NCT02556736, NCT03326336, NCT04945772, and NCT04278131). Here we present preclinical efficacy and safety data for the NCT04278131 trial, which uses an AAV2 vector and Chronos as the optogenetic protein. Efficacy was assessed in mice in a dose-dependent manner using electroretinograms (ERGs). Safety was assessed in rats, nonhuman primates, and mice, using several tests, including immunohistochemical analyses and cell counts (rats), electroretinograms (nonhuman primates), and ocular toxicology assays (mice). The results showed that Chronos-expressing vectors were efficacious over a broad range of vector doses and stimulating light intensities, and were well tolerated: no test article-related findings were observed in the anatomical and electrophysiological assays performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyuan Yan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Bionic Sight, Inc., New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Suresh Viswanathan
- Department of Biological and Vision Sciences, College of Optometry, State University of New York, New York, NY 10036, USA
| | - Scott E. Brodie
- Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | - Wen-Tao Deng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Kirsten E. Coleman
- Powel Gene Therapy Center Toxicology Core, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - William W. Hauswirth
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA
- Bionic Sight, Inc., New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Sheila Nirenberg
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Bionic Sight, Inc., New York, NY 10065, USA
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17
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Yan B, Nirenberg S. An Engineering Platform for Clinical Application of Optogenetic Therapy in Retinal Degenerative Diseases. IEEE JOURNAL OF TRANSLATIONAL ENGINEERING IN HEALTH AND MEDICINE 2023; 11:296-305. [PMID: 37250684 PMCID: PMC10217532 DOI: 10.1109/jtehm.2023.3275103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetics is a new approach for controlling neural circuits with numerous applications in both basic and clinical science. In retinal degenerative diseases, the photoreceptors die, but inner retinal cells remain largely intact. By expressing light sensitive proteins in the remaining cells, optogenetics has the potential to offer a novel approach to restoring vision. In the past several years, optogenetics has advanced into an early clinical stage, and promising results have been reported. At the current stage, there is an urgent need to develop hardware and software for clinical training, testing, and rehabilitation in optogenetic therapy, which is beyond the capability of existing ophthalmic equipment. In this paper, we present an engineering platform consisting of hardware and software utilities, which allow clinicians to interactively work with patients to explore and assess their vision in optogenetic treatment, providing the basis for prosthetic design, customization, and prescription. This approach is also applicable to other therapies that utilize light activation of neurons, such as photoswitches.Clinical and Translational Impact Statement-The engineering platform allows clinicians to conduct training, testing, and rehabilitation in optogenetic gene therapy for retinal degenerative diseases, providing the basis for prosthetic design, customization, and prescription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyuan Yan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell MedicineCornell UniversityNew YorkNY10065USA
- Bionic Sight Inc.New YorkNY10065USA
| | - Sheila Nirenberg
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell MedicineCornell UniversityNew YorkNY10065USA
- Bionic Sight Inc.New YorkNY10065USA
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18
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Ma X, Johnson DA, He XJ, Layden AE, McClain SP, Yung JC, Rizzo A, Bonaventura J, Banghart MR. In vivo photopharmacology with a caged mu opioid receptor agonist drives rapid changes in behavior. Nat Methods 2023; 20:682-685. [PMID: 36973548 PMCID: PMC10569260 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-023-01819-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Photoactivatable drugs and peptides can drive quantitative studies into receptor signaling with high spatiotemporal precision, yet few are compatible with behavioral studies in mammals. We developed CNV-Y-DAMGO-a caged derivative of the mu opioid receptor-selective peptide agonist DAMGO. Photoactivation in the mouse ventral tegmental area produced an opioid-dependent increase in locomotion within seconds of illumination. These results demonstrate the power of in vivo photopharmacology for dynamic studies into animal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Ma
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Desiree A Johnson
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Xinyi Jenny He
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Aryanna E Layden
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Shannan P McClain
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jean C Yung
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Arianna Rizzo
- Departament de Patologia i Terapèutica Experimental, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
- Neuropharmacology and Pain Group, Neuroscience Program, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jordi Bonaventura
- Departament de Patologia i Terapèutica Experimental, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
- Neuropharmacology and Pain Group, Neuroscience Program, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Matthew R Banghart
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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19
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Ellis EM, Paniagua AE, Scalabrino ML, Thapa M, Rathinavelu J, Jiao Y, Williams DS, Field GD, Fain GL, Sampath AP. Cones and cone pathways remain functional in advanced retinal degeneration. Curr Biol 2023; 33:1513-1522.e4. [PMID: 36977418 PMCID: PMC10133175 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Most defects causing retinal degeneration in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) are rod-specific mutations, but the subsequent degeneration of cones, which produces loss of daylight vision and high-acuity perception, is the most debilitating feature of the disease. To understand better why cones degenerate and how cone vision might be restored, we have made the first single-cell recordings of light responses from degenerating cones and retinal interneurons after most rods have died and cones have lost their outer-segment disk membranes and synaptic pedicles. We show that degenerating cones have functional cyclic-nucleotide-gated channels and can continue to give light responses, apparently produced by opsin localized either to small areas of organized membrane near the ciliary axoneme or distributed throughout the inner segment. Light responses of second-order horizontal and bipolar cells are less sensitive but otherwise resemble those of normal retina. Furthermore, retinal output as reflected in responses of ganglion cells is less sensitive but maintains spatiotemporal receptive fields at cone-mediated light levels. Together, these findings show that cones and their retinal pathways can remain functional even as degeneration is progressing, an encouraging result for future research aimed at enhancing the light sensitivity of residual cones to restore vision in patients with genetically inherited retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika M Ellis
- Department of Ophthalmology and Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7000, USA
| | - Antonio E Paniagua
- Department of Ophthalmology and Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7000, USA
| | - Miranda L Scalabrino
- Department of Ophthalmology and Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7000, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Mishek Thapa
- Department of Ophthalmology and Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7000, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Jay Rathinavelu
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Yuekan Jiao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7000, USA
| | - David S Williams
- Department of Ophthalmology and Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7000, USA.
| | - Greg D Field
- Department of Ophthalmology and Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7000, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
| | - Gordon L Fain
- Department of Ophthalmology and Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7000, USA.
| | - Alapakkam P Sampath
- Department of Ophthalmology and Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7000, USA.
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20
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Sun Y, Ding H, Tang M, Wen J, Yue S, Peng Y, Zheng L, Shi Y, Cao Q. Multicolor Adjustable B-N Molecular Switches: Simple, Efficient, Portable, and Visual Identification of Butanol Isomers. Anal Chem 2023; 95:5594-5600. [PMID: 36942711 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c05045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
As intelligent probes, dynamic and controllable molecular switches are useful tools for probing and intervening in life processes. However, the types and properties of molecular switches are still relatively single and often can only make two actions: "off" and "on". Therefore, the development of novel molecular switches with multiple colors and multiple instructions is very challenging. Herein, we propose a novel strategy based on the instability of the Lewis acid-base pair (boron (B) and nitrogen (N)), such as introducing the Schiff base (C═N) group into the aminoborane skeleton and preparing the novel molecular switches BN-HDZ and BN-HDZ-N. These two molecules were found to have good multicolor fluorescence switching capability for methanol. Surprisingly, the compound BN-HDZ-N shows unprecedented visual identification for the butanol isomers and could be made into a portable strip for simple and rapid visual identification of the four isomers of butanol, promising an alternative to conventional Lucas reagents. This provides a novel strategy for the design and fabrication of novel multicolor-tunable molecular switches with visual identification of isomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yitong Sun
- School of Chemical Science and Technology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, P. R. China
| | - Huangting Ding
- School of Chemical Science and Technology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, P. R. China
| | - Meng Tang
- School of Chemical Science and Technology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, P. R. China
| | - Jingyi Wen
- School of Chemical Science and Technology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, P. R. China
| | - Shiwen Yue
- School of Chemical Science and Technology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, P. R. China
| | - Ye Peng
- School of Chemical Science and Technology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, P. R. China
| | - Liyan Zheng
- School of Chemical Science and Technology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, P. R. China
| | - Yonggang Shi
- School of Chemical Science and Technology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, P. R. China
| | - Qiue Cao
- School of Chemical Science and Technology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, P. R. China
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21
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Nikonov S, Dolgova N, Sudharsan R, Tochitsky I, Iwabe S, Guzman JM, Van Gelder RN, Kramer RH, Aguirre GD, Beltran WA. Photochemical Restoration of Light Sensitivity in the Degenerated Canine Retina. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122711. [PMID: 36559205 PMCID: PMC9783220 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122711] [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: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Photopharmacological compounds such as azobenzene-based photoswitches have been shown to control the conductivity of ionic channels in a light-dependent manner and are considered a potential strategy to restore vision in patients with end-stage photoreceptor degeneration. Here, we report the effects of DENAQ, a second-generation azobenzene-based photoswitch on retinal ganglion cells (RGC) in canine retinas using multi-electrode array (MEA) recordings (from nine degenerated and six WT retinas). DENAQ treatment conferred increased light sensitivity to RGCs in degenerated canine retinas. RGC light responses were observed in degenerated retinas following ex vivo application of 1 mM DENAQ (n = 6) or after in vivo DENAQ injection (n = 3, 150 μL, 3-10 mM) using 455 nm light at intensities as low as 0.2 mW/cm2. The number of light-sensitive cells and the per cell response amplitude increased with light intensity up to the maximum tested intensity of 85 mW/cm2. Application of DENAQ to degenerated retinas with partially preserved cone function caused appearance of DENAQ-driven responses both in cone-driven and previously non-responsive RGCs, and disappearance of cone-driven responses. Repeated stimulation slowed activation and accelerated recovery of the DENAQ-driven responses. The latter is likely responsible for the delayed appearance of a response to 4 Hz flicker stimulation. Limited aqueous solubility of DENAQ results in focal drug aggregates associated with ocular toxicity. While this limits the therapeutic potential of DENAQ, more potent third-generation photoswitches may be more promising, especially when delivered in a slow-release formulation that prevents drug aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergei Nikonov
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Natalia Dolgova
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Raghavi Sudharsan
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ivan Tochitsky
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 90095, USA
| | - Simone Iwabe
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jose-Manuel Guzman
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Russell N. Van Gelder
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pathology, and Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Richard H. Kramer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 90095, USA
| | - Gustavo D. Aguirre
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - William A. Beltran
- Division of Experimental Retinal Therapies, Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Correspondence:
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22
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Huang Y, Cui Y, Deng H, Wang J, Hong R, Hu S, Hou H, Dong Y, Wang H, Chen J, Li L, Xie Y, Sun P, Fu X, Yin L, Xiong W, Shi SH, Luo M, Wang S, Li X, Sheng X. Bioresorbable thin-film silicon diodes for the optoelectronic excitation and inhibition of neural activities. Nat Biomed Eng 2022; 7:486-498. [PMID: 36065014 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-022-00931-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Neural activities can be modulated by leveraging light-responsive nanomaterials as interfaces for exerting photothermal, photoelectrochemical or photocapacitive effects on neurons or neural tissues. Here we show that bioresorbable thin-film monocrystalline silicon pn diodes can be used to optoelectronically excite or inhibit neural activities by establishing polarity-dependent positive or negative photovoltages at the semiconductor/solution interface. Under laser illumination, the silicon-diode optoelectronic interfaces allowed for the deterministic depolarization or hyperpolarization of cultured neurons as well as the upregulated or downregulated intracellular calcium dynamics. The optoelectronic interfaces can also be mounted on nerve tissue to activate or silence neural activities in peripheral and central nervous tissues, as we show in mice with exposed sciatic nerves and somatosensory cortices. Bioresorbable silicon-based optoelectronic thin films that selectively excite or inhibit neural tissue may find advantageous biomedical applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxiang Huang
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Beijing National Research Center for Information Science and Technology, Institute for Precision Medicine, Center for Flexible Electronics Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,School of Materials Science and Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of New Ceramics and Fine Processing, Center for Flexible Electronics Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuting Cui
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China.,National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hanjie Deng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
| | - Rongqi Hong
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuhan Hu
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Hanqing Hou
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanrui Dong
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Huachun Wang
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Beijing National Research Center for Information Science and Technology, Institute for Precision Medicine, Center for Flexible Electronics Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Junyu Chen
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Beijing National Research Center for Information Science and Technology, Institute for Precision Medicine, Center for Flexible Electronics Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Lizhu Li
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Beijing National Research Center for Information Science and Technology, Institute for Precision Medicine, Center for Flexible Electronics Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Xie
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Beijing National Research Center for Information Science and Technology, Institute for Precision Medicine, Center for Flexible Electronics Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Pengcheng Sun
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of New Ceramics and Fine Processing, Center for Flexible Electronics Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Fu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of New Ceramics and Fine Processing, Center for Flexible Electronics Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Lan Yin
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of New Ceramics and Fine Processing, Center for Flexible Electronics Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Song-Hai Shi
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Minmin Luo
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China.,National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Shirong Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiaojian Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Xing Sheng
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Beijing National Research Center for Information Science and Technology, Institute for Precision Medicine, Center for Flexible Electronics Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China. .,IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
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23
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Liang R, Bakhtiiari A. Multiscale simulation unravels the light-regulated reversible inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase by phototrexate. J Chem Phys 2022; 156:245102. [DOI: 10.1063/5.0096349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular photoswitches are widely used in photopharmacology, where the biomolecular functions are photo-controlled reversibly with high spatiotemporal precision. Despite the success of this field, it remains elusive how the protein environment modulates the photochemical properties of photoswitches. Understanding this fundamental question is critical for designing more effective light-regulated drugs with mitigated side effects. In our recent work, we employed first-principles non-adiabatic dynamics simulations to probe the effects of protein on the trans to cis photoisomerization of phototrexate (PTX), a photochromic analog of the anticancer therapeutic methotrexate that inhibits the target enzyme dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). Building upon this study, in this work, we employ multiscale simulations to unravel the full photocycle underlying the light-regulated reversible inhibition of DHFR by PTX, which remains elusive until now. First-principles non-adiabatic dynamics simulations reveal that the cis to trans photoisomerization quantum yield is hindered in the protein due to backward isomerization on the ground-state following non-adiabatic transition, which arises from the favorable binding of the cis isomer with the protein. However, free energy simulations indicate that cis to trans photoisomerization significantly decreases the binding affinity of the PTX. Thus, the cis to trans photoisomerization most likely precedes the ligand unbinding from the protein. We propose the most probable photocycle of the PTX-DHFR system. Our comprehensive simulations highlight the trade-offs among the binding affinity, photoisomerization quantum yield, and the thermal stability of the ligand's different isomeric forms. As such, our work reveals new design principles of light-regulated drugs in photopharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruibin Liang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79409, USA
| | - Amirhossein Bakhtiiari
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79409, USA
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24
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Berry MH, Holt A, Broichhagen J, Donthamsetti P, Flannery JG, Isacoff EY. Photopharmacology for vision restoration. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2022; 65:102259. [PMID: 35749908 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2022.102259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Blinding diseases that are caused by degeneration of rod and cone photoreceptor cells often spare the rest of the retinal circuit, from bipolar cells, which are directly innervated by photoreceptor cells, to the output ganglion cells that project axons to the brain. A strategy for restoring vision is to introduce light sensitivity to the surviving cells of the retina. One approach is optogenetics, in which surviving cells are virally transfected with a gene encoding a signaling protein that becomes sensitive to light by binding to the biologically available chromophore retinal, the same chromophore that is used by the opsin photo-detectors of rods and cones. A second approach uses photopharmacology, in which a synthetic photoswitch associates with a native or engineered ion channel or receptor. We review these approaches and look ahead to the next generation of advances that could reconstitute core aspects of natural vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H Berry
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Amy Holt
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | | | - Prashant Donthamsetti
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - John G Flannery
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA; Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA; Vision Science, Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Ehud Y Isacoff
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA; Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA; MBIB Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
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25
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Garrido-Charles A, Huet A, Matera C, Thirumalai A, Hernando J, Llebaria A, Moser T, Gorostiza P. Fast Photoswitchable Molecular Prosthetics Control Neuronal Activity in the Cochlea. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:9229-9239. [PMID: 35584208 PMCID: PMC9164239 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c12314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Artificial control of neuronal activity enables the study of neural circuits and restoration of neural functions. Direct, rapid, and sustained photocontrol of intact neurons could overcome the limitations of established electrical stimulation such as poor selectivity. We have developed fast photoswitchable ligands of glutamate receptors (GluRs) to enable neuronal control in the auditory system. The new photoswitchable ligands induced photocurrents in untransfected neurons upon covalently tethering to endogenous GluRs and activating them reversibly with visible light pulses of a few milliseconds. As a proof of concept of these molecular prostheses, we applied them to the ultrafast synapses of auditory neurons of the cochlea that encode sound and provide auditory input to the brain. This drug-based method afforded the optical stimulation of auditory neurons of adult gerbils at hundreds of hertz without genetic manipulation that would be required for their optogenetic control. This indicates that the new photoswitchable ligands are also applicable to the spatiotemporal control of fast spiking interneurons in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Garrido-Charles
- Institute
for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute for Science
and Technology, Carrer
de Baldiri Reixac 15-21, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Network
Biomedical Research Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine
(CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Institute
for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory
Neuroscience and Optogenetics Group, German
Primate Center, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- Cluster
of Excellence “Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines
to Networks of Excitable Cells” (MBExC), University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Antoine Huet
- Institute
for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory
Neuroscience and Optogenetics Group, German
Primate Center, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- Cluster
of Excellence “Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines
to Networks of Excitable Cells” (MBExC), University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory
Circuit Lab, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Carlo Matera
- Institute
for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute for Science
and Technology, Carrer
de Baldiri Reixac 15-21, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Network
Biomedical Research Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine
(CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Milan, Via Luigi Mangiagalli
25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Anupriya Thirumalai
- Institute
for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory
Neuroscience and Optogenetics Group, German
Primate Center, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory
Circuit Lab, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jordi Hernando
- Departament
de Química, Universitat Autònoma
de Barcelona (UAB), Cerdanyola
del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - Amadeu Llebaria
- Consejo
Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IQAC-CSIC), Institute of Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tobias Moser
- Institute
for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory
Neuroscience and Optogenetics Group, German
Primate Center, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- Cluster
of Excellence “Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines
to Networks of Excitable Cells” (MBExC), University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Pau Gorostiza
- Institute
for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute for Science
and Technology, Carrer
de Baldiri Reixac 15-21, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Network
Biomedical Research Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine
(CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced
Studies (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain
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26
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Gene-independent therapeutic interventions to maintain and restore light sensitivity in degenerating photoreceptors. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022; 90:101065. [PMID: 35562270 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative retinal diseases are a prime cause of blindness in industrialized countries. In many cases, there are no therapeutic treatments, although they are essential to improve patients' quality of life. A set of disease-causing genes, which primarily affect photoreceptors, has already been identified and is of major interest for developing gene therapies. Nevertheless, depending on the nature and the state of the disease, gene-independent strategies are needed. Various strategies to halt disease progression or maintain function of the retina are under research. These therapeutic interventions include neuroprotection, direct reprogramming of affected photoreceptors, the application of non-coding RNAs, the generation of artificial photoreceptors by optogenetics and cell replacement strategies. During recent years, major breakthroughs have been made such as the first optogenetic application to a blind patient whose visual function partially recovered by targeting retinal ganglion cells. Also, RPE cell transplantation therapies are under clinical investigation and show great promise to improve visual function in blind patients. These cells are generated from human stem cells. Similar therapies for replacing photoreceptors are extensively tested in pre-clinical models. This marks just the start of promising new cures taking advantage of developments in the areas of genetic engineering, optogenetics, and stem-cell research. In this review, we present the recent therapeutic advances of gene-independent approaches that are currently under clinical evaluation. Our main focus is on photoreceptors as these sensory cells are highly vulnerable to degenerative diseases, and are crucial for light detection.
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Liu W, Liu S, Li P, Yao K. Retinitis Pigmentosa: Progress in Molecular Pathology and Biotherapeutical Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094883. [PMID: 35563274 PMCID: PMC9101511 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is genetically heterogeneous retinopathy caused by photoreceptor cell death and retinal pigment epithelial atrophy that eventually results in blindness in bilateral eyes. Various photoreceptor cell death types and pathological phenotypic changes that have been disclosed in RP demand in-depth research of its pathogenic mechanism that may account for inter-patient heterogeneous responses to mainstream drug treatment. As the primary method for studying the genetic characteristics of RP, molecular biology has been widely used in disease diagnosis and clinical trials. Current technology iterations, such as gene therapy, stem cell therapy, and optogenetics, are advancing towards precise diagnosis and clinical applications. Specifically, technologies, such as effective delivery vectors, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, and iPSC-based cell transplantation, hasten the pace of personalized precision medicine in RP. The combination of conventional therapy and state-of-the-art medication is promising in revolutionizing RP treatment strategies. This article provides an overview of the latest research on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of retinitis pigmentosa, aiming for a convenient reference of what has been achieved so far.
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28
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Zhu J, Guo T, Wang Z, Zhao Y. Triggered azobenzene-based prodrugs and drug delivery systems. J Control Release 2022; 345:475-493. [PMID: 35339578 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Azobenzene-based molecules show unique trans-cis isomerization upon ultraviolet light irradiation, which induce the change of polarity, crystallinity, stability, and binding affinity with pharmacological target. Moreover, azobenzene is the substrate of azoreductase that is often overexpressed in many pathological sites, e.g. hypoxic solid tumor. Therefore, azobenzene can be a multifunctional molecule in material science, pharmaceutical science and biomedicine because of its sensitivity to light, hypoxia and certain enzymes, hence showing potential application in site-specific smart therapy. Herein we focus on the employment of azobenzene and its derivatives for engineering triggered prodrug and drug delivery systems, and provide an overview of photoswitchable azo-based prodrugs, the associated problems regarding ultraviolet light and reversible isomerization, as well as the potential solutions. We also present the advance of azo-bearing delivery vehicles wherein azobenzene act as the linker, capping agent, and building block, and discuss the corresponding mechanisms for controlled cargo release, endocytosis enhancement and sensitization of free radical cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jundong Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science & Technology, Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High Efficiency, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Tao Guo
- Tianjin Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Tianjin 300120, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science & Technology, Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High Efficiency, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
| | - Yanjun Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science & Technology, Tianjin Key Laboratory for Modern Drug Delivery & High Efficiency, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
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29
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Telias M, Sit KK, Frozenfar D, Smith B, Misra A, Goard MJ, Kramer RH. Retinoic acid inhibitors mitigate vision loss in a mouse model of retinal degeneration. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm4643. [PMID: 35302843 PMCID: PMC8932665 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm4643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Rod and cone photoreceptors degenerate in retinitis pigmentosa (RP). While downstream neurons survive, they undergo physiological changes, including accelerated spontaneous firing in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Retinoic acid (RA) is the molecular trigger of RGC hyperactivity, but whether this interferes with visual perception is unknown. Here, we show that inhibiting RA synthesis with disulfiram, a deterrent of human alcohol abuse, improves behavioral image detection in vision-impaired mice. In vivo Ca2+ imaging shows that disulfiram sharpens orientation tuning of visual cortical neurons and strengthens fidelity of responses to natural scenes. An RA receptor inhibitor also reduces RGC hyperactivity, sharpens cortical representations, and improves image detection. These findings suggest that photoreceptor degeneration is not the only cause of vision loss in RP. RA-induced corruption of retinal information processing also degrades vision, pointing to RA synthesis and signaling inhibitors as potential therapeutic tools for improving sight in RP and other retinal degenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Telias
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Kevin K. Sit
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Daniel Frozenfar
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin Smith
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Arjit Misra
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Michael J. Goard
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Richard H. Kramer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
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30
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Liang R, Bakhtiiari A. Effects of Enzyme-Ligand Interactions on the Photoisomerization of a Light-Regulated Chemotherapeutic Drug. J Phys Chem B 2022; 126:2382-2393. [PMID: 35297246 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.1c10819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Molecular photoswitches permit using light to control protein activity with high spatiotemporal resolutions, thereby alleviating the side effects of conventional chemotherapy. However, due to the challenges in probing ultrafast photoisomerization reactions in biological environments, it remains elusive how the protein influences the photochemistry of the photoswitches, which hampers the rational design of light-regulated therapeutics. To overcome this challenge, we employed first-principles nonadiabatic dynamics simulations to characterize the photodynamics of the phototrexate (PTX), a recently developed photoswitchable anticancer chemotherapeutic that reversibly inhibits its target enzyme dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). Our simulations show that the protein environment impedes the trans to cis photoisomerization of the PTX. The confinement in the ligand-binding cavity slows down the isomerization kinetics and quantum yield of the photoswitch by reshaping its conical intersection, increasing its excited-state free-energy barrier and quenching its local density fluctuations. Also, the protein environment results in a suboptimal binding mode of the photoproduct that needs to undergo large structural rearrangement to effectively inhibit the enzyme. Therefore, we predict that the PTX's trans → cis photoisomerization in solution precedes its binding with the protein, despite the favorable binding energy of the trans isomer. Our findings highlight the importance of the protein environment on the photochemical reactions of the molecular photoswitches. As such, our work represents an important step toward the rational design of light-regulated drugs in photopharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruibin Liang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79409, United States
| | - Amirhossein Bakhtiiari
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79409, United States
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31
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Leistner AL, Pianowski Z. Smart photochromic materials triggered with visible light. European J Org Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ejoc.202101271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Lena Leistner
- KIT: Karlsruher Institut fur Technologie Institute of Organic Chemistry Fritz-Haber-Weg 6 76131 Karlsruhe GERMANY
| | - Zbigniew Pianowski
- Karlsruher Institut fur Technologie Fakultat fur Chemie und Biowissenschaften Institute of Organic Chemistry Fritz-Haber-Weg 6 76131 Karlsruhe GERMANY
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32
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Shen ZN, Xu YX, Wang CY, Qiao B. Fine‐tuning the Thermal Relaxation Dynamics of Indigo‐based Photoswitches Using Selective Non‐covalent Interactions without Chemical Modification. CHEMPHOTOCHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/cptc.202200004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Nan Shen
- ShanghaiTech University School of Physical Science and Technology shanghai,pudongShanghai 231567 Shanghai CHINA
| | - Yu-Xuan Xu
- ShanghaiTech University School of Physical Science and Technology CHINA
| | - Chen-Yu Wang
- ShanghaiTech University School of Physical Science and Technology CHINA
| | - Bo Qiao
- ShanghaiTech University School of Physical Science and Technology 393 Middle Huaxia Road 201210 Shanghai CHINA
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33
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Montnach J, Blömer LA, Lopez L, Filipis L, Meudal H, Lafoux A, Nicolas S, Chu D, Caumes C, Béroud R, Jopling C, Bosmans F, Huchet C, Landon C, Canepari M, De Waard M. In vivo spatiotemporal control of voltage-gated ion channels by using photoactivatable peptidic toxins. Nat Commun 2022; 13:417. [PMID: 35058427 PMCID: PMC8776733 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-27974-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoactivatable drugs targeting ligand-gated ion channels open up new opportunities for light-guided therapeutic interventions. Photoactivable toxins targeting ion channels have the potential to control excitable cell activities with low invasiveness and high spatiotemporal precision. As proof-of-concept, we develop HwTxIV-Nvoc, a UV light-cleavable and photoactivatable peptide that targets voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels and validate its activity in vitro in HEK293 cells, ex vivo in brain slices and in vivo on mice neuromuscular junctions. We find that HwTxIV-Nvoc enables precise spatiotemporal control of neuronal NaV channel function under all conditions tested. By creating multiple photoactivatable toxins, we demonstrate the broad applicability of this toxin-photoactivation technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Montnach
- l'institut du thorax, INSERM, CNRS, UNIV NANTES, F-44007, Nantes, France
- Laboratory of Excellence Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics, F-06560, Valbonne, France
| | - Laila Ananda Blömer
- Laboratory of Excellence Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics, F-06560, Valbonne, France
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Physique, Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS UMR 5588, 38402, St Martin d'Hères, cedex, France
| | - Ludivine Lopez
- l'institut du thorax, INSERM, CNRS, UNIV NANTES, F-44007, Nantes, France
- Laboratory of Excellence Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics, F-06560, Valbonne, France
- Smartox Biotechnology, 6 rue des Platanes, F-38120, Saint-Egrève, France
| | - Luiza Filipis
- Laboratory of Excellence Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics, F-06560, Valbonne, France
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Physique, Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS UMR 5588, 38402, St Martin d'Hères, cedex, France
| | - Hervé Meudal
- Center for Molecular Biophysics, CNRS, rue Charles Sadron, CS 80054, Orléans, 45071, France
| | - Aude Lafoux
- Therassay Platform, IRS2-Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Sébastien Nicolas
- l'institut du thorax, INSERM, CNRS, UNIV NANTES, F-44007, Nantes, France
- Laboratory of Excellence Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics, F-06560, Valbonne, France
| | - Duong Chu
- Queen's University Faculty of Medicine, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Cécile Caumes
- Smartox Biotechnology, 6 rue des Platanes, F-38120, Saint-Egrève, France
| | - Rémy Béroud
- Smartox Biotechnology, 6 rue des Platanes, F-38120, Saint-Egrève, France
| | - Chris Jopling
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, 141 rue de la Cardonille, 34094, Montpellier, France
| | - Frank Bosmans
- Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Corinne Huchet
- Therassay Platform, IRS2-Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Céline Landon
- Center for Molecular Biophysics, CNRS, rue Charles Sadron, CS 80054, Orléans, 45071, France
| | - Marco Canepari
- Laboratory of Excellence Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics, F-06560, Valbonne, France
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Physique, Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS UMR 5588, 38402, St Martin d'Hères, cedex, France
| | - Michel De Waard
- l'institut du thorax, INSERM, CNRS, UNIV NANTES, F-44007, Nantes, France.
- Laboratory of Excellence Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics, F-06560, Valbonne, France.
- Smartox Biotechnology, 6 rue des Platanes, F-38120, Saint-Egrève, France.
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34
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Adrion DM, Lopez SA. Cross-conjugation controls the stabilities and photophysical properties of heteroazoarene photoswitches. Org Biomol Chem 2022; 20:5989-5998. [PMID: 35014651 DOI: 10.1039/d1ob02026a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Azoarene photoswitches are versatile molecules that interconvert from their E-isomer to their Z-isomer with light. Azobenzene is a prototypical photoswitch but its derivatives can be poorly suited for in vivo applications such as photopharmacology due to undesired photochemical reactions promoted by ultraviolet light and the relatively short half-life (t1/2) of the Z-isomer (2 days). Experimental and computational studies suggest that these properties (λmax of the E isomer and t1/2 of the Z-isomer) are inversely related. We identified isomeric azobisthiophenes and azobisfurans from a high-throughput screening study of 1540 azoarenes as photoswitch candidates with improved λmax and t1/2 values relative to azobenzene. We used density functional theory to predict the activation free energies and vertical excitation energies of the E- and Z-isomers of 2,2- and 3,3-substituted azobisthiophenes and azobisfurans. The half-lives depend on whether the heterocycles are π-conjugated or cross-conjugated with the diazo π-bond. The 2,2-substituted azoarenes both have t1/2 values on the scale of 1 hour, while the 3,3-analogues have computed half-lives of 40 and 230 years (thiophene and furan, respectively). The 2,2-substituted heteroazoarenes have significantly higher λmax absorptions than their 3,3-substituted analogues: 76 nm for azofuran and 77 nm for azothiophene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Adrion
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA.
| | - Steven A Lopez
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA.
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35
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Tang K, Beyer HM, Zurbriggen MD, Gärtner W. The Red Edge: Bilin-Binding Photoreceptors as Optogenetic Tools and Fluorescence Reporters. Chem Rev 2021; 121:14906-14956. [PMID: 34669383 PMCID: PMC8707292 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
This review adds the bilin-binding phytochromes to the Chemical Reviews thematic issue "Optogenetics and Photopharmacology". The work is structured into two parts. We first outline the photochemistry of the covalently bound tetrapyrrole chromophore and summarize relevant spectroscopic, kinetic, biochemical, and physiological properties of the different families of phytochromes. Based on this knowledge, we then describe the engineering of phytochromes to further improve these chromoproteins as photoswitches and review their employment in an ever-growing number of different optogenetic applications. Most applications rely on the light-controlled complex formation between the plant photoreceptor PhyB and phytochrome-interacting factors (PIFs) or C-terminal light-regulated domains with enzymatic functions present in many bacterial and algal phytochromes. Phytochrome-based optogenetic tools are currently implemented in bacteria, yeast, plants, and animals to achieve light control of a wide range of biological activities. These cover the regulation of gene expression, protein transport into cell organelles, and the recruitment of phytochrome- or PIF-tagged proteins to membranes and other cellular compartments. This compilation illustrates the intrinsic advantages of phytochromes compared to other photoreceptor classes, e.g., their bidirectional dual-wavelength control enabling instant ON and OFF regulation. In particular, the long wavelength range of absorption and fluorescence within the "transparent window" makes phytochromes attractive for complex applications requiring deep tissue penetration or dual-wavelength control in combination with blue and UV light-sensing photoreceptors. In addition to the wide variability of applications employing natural and engineered phytochromes, we also discuss recent progress in the development of bilin-based fluorescent proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Tang
- Institute
of Synthetic Biology, Heinrich-Heine-University
Düsseldorf, Universitätsstrasse 1, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Hannes M. Beyer
- Institute
of Synthetic Biology, Heinrich-Heine-University
Düsseldorf, Universitätsstrasse 1, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Matias D. Zurbriggen
- Institute
of Synthetic Biology and CEPLAS, Heinrich-Heine-University
Düsseldorf, Universitätsstrasse
1, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Gärtner
- Retired: Max Planck Institute
for Chemical Energy Conversion. At present: Institute for Analytical Chemistry, University
Leipzig, Linnéstrasse
3, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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Azobenzene/Tetraethyl Ammonium Photochromic Potassium Channel Blockers: Scope and Limitations for Design of Para-Substituted Derivatives with Specific Absorption Band Maxima and Thermal Isomerization Rate. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222313171. [PMID: 34884976 PMCID: PMC8658355 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313171] [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: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Azobenzene/tetraethyl ammonium photochromic ligands (ATPLs) are photoactive compounds with a large variety of photopharmacological applications such as nociception control or vision restoration. Absorption band maximum and lifetime of the less stable isomer are important characteristics that determine the applicability of ATPLs. Substituents allow to adjust these characteristics in a range limited by the azobenzene/tetraethyl ammonium scaffold. The aim of the current study is to find the scope and limitations for the design of ATPLs with specific spectral and kinetic properties by introducing para substituents with different electronic effects. To perform this task we synthesized ATPLs with various electron acceptor and electron donor functional groups and studied their spectral and kinetic properties using flash photolysis and conventional spectroscopy techniques as well as quantum chemical modeling. As a result, we obtained diagrams that describe correlations between spectral and kinetic properties of ATPLs (absorption maxima of E and Z isomers of ATPLs, the thermal lifetime of their Z form) and both the electronic effect of substituents described by Hammett constants and structural parameters obtained from quantum chemical calculations. The provided results can be used for the design of ATPLs with properties that are optimal for photopharmacological applications.
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Zheng Y, Zhou Y, Zhang Y, Deng P, Zhao X, Jiang S, Du G, Shen X, Xie X, Su Z, Yu Z. Water-Involved Ring-Opening of 4-Phenyl-1,2,4-triazoline-3,5-dione for "Photo-Clicked" Access to Carbamoyl Formazan Photoswitches In Situ. Chem Asian J 2021; 17:e202101239. [PMID: 34851039 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202101239] [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: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic azodicarbonyl derivatives, particularly 4-phenyl-1,2,4-triazoline-3,5-dione (PTAD), commonly serve as arenophile, dienophile, enophile and electrophile. Perplexed by its instability in aqueous environment, there are few studies focused on the transient intermediate produced by hydrolysis of PTAD to achieve synthetic significance. Herein, we describe a "photo-click" method that involves nitrile imine (NI) from diarylsydnone to capture the diazenecarbonyl-phenyl-carbamic acid (DACPA) generated by water-promoted ring-opening of PTAD. DFT calculation reveal that H-bonding interactions between PTAD and water are vital to form DACPA which exhibited an umpolung effect during ligation by nature bond orbit (NBO) analysis. The ultra-fast ligation resulted in carbamoyl formazans, as a unique Z↔E photo-switchable linker on target molecules, including peptide and drugs, with excellent anti-fatigue performance. This strategy is showcased to construct highly functionalized carbamoyl formazans in situ for photo-pharmacology and material studies, which also expands the chemistry of PTAD in aqueous media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanqin Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Road, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Yuqiao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Road, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Road, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Pengchi Deng
- Analytical & Testing Center, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Road, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Xiaohu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Road, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Shichao Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Road, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Guangxi Du
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Road, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Xin Shen
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Road, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Xinyu Xie
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Road, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Zhishan Su
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Road, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Zhipeng Yu
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Road, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
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38
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Developments and challenges in human performance enhancement technology. MEDICINE IN NOVEL TECHNOLOGY AND DEVICES 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medntd.2021.100095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Maltan L, Najjar H, Tiffner A, Derler I. Deciphering Molecular Mechanisms and Intervening in Physiological and Pathophysiological Processes of Ca 2+ Signaling Mechanisms Using Optogenetic Tools. Cells 2021; 10:3340. [PMID: 34943850 PMCID: PMC8699489 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium ion channels are involved in numerous biological functions such as lymphocyte activation, muscle contraction, neurotransmission, excitation, hormone secretion, gene expression, cell migration, memory, and aging. Therefore, their dysfunction can lead to a wide range of cellular abnormalities and, subsequently, to diseases. To date various conventional techniques have provided valuable insights into the roles of Ca2+ signaling. However, their limited spatiotemporal resolution and lack of reversibility pose significant obstacles in the detailed understanding of the structure-function relationship of ion channels. These drawbacks could be partially overcome by the use of optogenetics, which allows for the remote and well-defined manipulation of Ca2+-signaling. Here, we review the various optogenetic tools that have been used to achieve precise control over different Ca2+-permeable ion channels and receptors and associated downstream signaling cascades. We highlight the achievements of optogenetics as well as the still-open questions regarding the resolution of ion channel working mechanisms. In addition, we summarize the successes of optogenetics in manipulating many Ca2+-dependent biological processes both in vitro and in vivo. In summary, optogenetics has significantly advanced our understanding of Ca2+ signaling proteins and the used tools provide an essential basis for potential future therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Isabella Derler
- Institute of Biophysics, JKU Life Science Center, Johannes Kepler University Linz, A-4020 Linz, Austria; (L.M.); (H.N.); (A.T.)
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Kralik J, Kleinlogel S. Functional Availability of ON-Bipolar Cells in the Degenerated Retina: Timing and Longevity of an Optogenetic Gene Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111515. [PMID: 34768944 PMCID: PMC8584043 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Degenerative diseases of the retina are responsible for the death of photoreceptors and subsequent loss of vision in patients. Nevertheless, the inner retinal layers remain intact over an extended period of time, enabling the restoration of light sensitivity in blind retinas via the expression of optogenetic tools in the remaining retinal cells. The chimeric Opto-mGluR6 protein represents such a tool. With exclusive ON-bipolar cell expression, it combines the light-sensitive domains of melanopsin and the intracellular domains of the metabotropic glutamate receptor 6 (mGluR6), which naturally mediates light responses in these cells. Albeit vision restoration in blind mice by Opto-mGluR6 delivery was previously shown, much is left to be explored in regard to the effects of the timing of the treatment in the degenerated retina. We performed a functional evaluation of Opto-mGluR6-treated murine blind retinas using multi-electrode arrays (MEAs) and observed long-term functional preservation in the treated retinas, as well as successful therapeutical intervention in later stages of degeneration. Moreover, the treatment decreased the inherent retinal hyperactivity of the degenerated retinas to levels undistinguishable from healthy controls. Finally, we observed for the first time micro electroretinograms (mERGs) in optogenetically treated animals, corroborating the origin of Opto-mGluR6 signalling at the level of mGluR6 of ON-bipolar cells.
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Pfaff P, Anderl F, Fink M, Balkenhohl M, Carreira EM. Azoacetylenes for the Synthesis of Arylazotriazole Photoswitches. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:14495-14501. [PMID: 34478268 PMCID: PMC8447256 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c06014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
We report a modular approach toward novel arylazotriazole photoswitches and their photophysical characterization. Addition of lithiated TIPS-acetylene to aryldiazonium tetrafluoroborate salts gives a wide range of azoacetylenes, constituting an underexplored class of stable intermediates. In situ desilylation transiently leads to terminal arylazoacetylenes that undergo copper-catalyzed cycloadditions (CuAAC) with a diverse collection of organoazides. These include complex molecules derived from natural products or drugs, such as colchicine, taxol, tamiflu, and arachidonic acid. The arylazotriazoles display near-quantitative photoisomerization and long thermal Z-half-lives. Using the method, we introduce for the first time the design and synthesis of a diacetylene platform. It permits implementation of consecutive and diversity-oriented approaches linking two different conjugants to independently addressable acetylenes within a common photoswitchable azotriazole. This is showcased in the synthesis of several photoswitchable conjugates, with potential applications as photoPROTACs and biotin conjugates.
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42
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Nikolaev MV, Strashkov DM, Ryazantsev MN, Tikhonov DB. Optical Control of N-Methyl-d-aspartate Receptors by Azobenzene Quaternary Ammonium Compounds. ACS Chem Neurosci 2021; 12:3347-3357. [PMID: 34469111 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.1c00310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Azobenzene-based quaternary ammonium compounds provide optical control of ion channels and are considered promising agents for regulation of neuronal excitability and for restoration of the photosensitivity of retinal cells. However, the selectivity of the action of these compounds remains insufficiently known. We studied the action of DENAQ (diethylamine-azobenzene-quaternary ammonium) and DMNAQ (dimethylamine-azobenzene-quaternary ammonium) on ionotropic glutamate receptors in rat brain neurons. In the dark, both compounds applied extracellularly caused fast and reversible inhibition of NMDA (N-methyl-d-aspartate) receptor-mediated currents with IC50 values of 10 and 5 μM, respectively. Light-induced transformation of DENAQ and DMNAQ to their cis forms caused the IC50 values to increase to 30 and 27 μM, respectively. Detailed analysis of this action revealed a complex nature consisting of fast inhibitory and slower potentiating effects. The AMPA (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid) receptors were only weakly affected independently on illumination. We conclude that, in addition to their long-lasting intracellular action, which persists after washout, azobenzene-based quaternary ammonium compounds should affect glutamatergic transmission and synaptic plasticity during treatment. Our findings also extend the list of soluble photoswitchable inhibitors of NMDA receptors. While the site(s) and mechanisms of action are unclear, the effect of DENAQ demonstrates strong pH dependence. At acidic pH values, DENAQ potentiates both NMDA and AMPA receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxim V. Nikolaev
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of RAS, Thorez pr. 44, 194223 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Daniil M. Strashkov
- Saint Petersburg National Research Academic University of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 8/3 Khlopina Street, 194021 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Mikhail N. Ryazantsev
- Institute of Chemistry, Saint Petersburg State University, Universitetskii pr. 26, 198504 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Denis B. Tikhonov
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of RAS, Thorez pr. 44, 194223 Saint Petersburg, Russia
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43
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Antipin IS, Alfimov MV, Arslanov VV, Burilov VA, Vatsadze SZ, Voloshin YZ, Volcho KP, Gorbatchuk VV, Gorbunova YG, Gromov SP, Dudkin SV, Zaitsev SY, Zakharova LY, Ziganshin MA, Zolotukhina AV, Kalinina MA, Karakhanov EA, Kashapov RR, Koifman OI, Konovalov AI, Korenev VS, Maksimov AL, Mamardashvili NZ, Mamardashvili GM, Martynov AG, Mustafina AR, Nugmanov RI, Ovsyannikov AS, Padnya PL, Potapov AS, Selektor SL, Sokolov MN, Solovieva SE, Stoikov II, Stuzhin PA, Suslov EV, Ushakov EN, Fedin VP, Fedorenko SV, Fedorova OA, Fedorov YV, Chvalun SN, Tsivadze AY, Shtykov SN, Shurpik DN, Shcherbina MA, Yakimova LS. Functional supramolecular systems: design and applications. RUSSIAN CHEMICAL REVIEWS 2021. [DOI: 10.1070/rcr5011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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44
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Zhao DX, Jiang Q, Wang J, Qiu Y, Liao YG, Xie XL. Visible Light and Temperature Regulated Reflection Colors in Self-supporting Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Physical Gels. CHINESE JOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10118-021-2618-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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45
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Adrion DM, Kaliakin DS, Neal P, Lopez SA. Benchmarking of Density Functionals for Z-Azoarene Half-Lives via Automated Transition State Search. J Phys Chem A 2021; 125:6474-6485. [PMID: 34260236 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpca.1c01695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Molecular photoswitches use light to interconvert from a thermodynamically stable isomer into a metastable isomer. Photoswitches have been used in photopharmacology, catalysis, and molecular solar thermal (MOST) materials because of their spatiotemporal activation. Visible-light-absorbing photoswitches are especially attractive because low-energy light minimizes undesired photochemical reactions and enables biological applications. Ideal photoswitches require well-separated absorption spectra for both isomers and long-lived metastable states. However, predicting thermal half-lives with density functional theory is difficult because it requires locating transition structures and chosing an accurate model chemistry. We now report EZ-TS; by automatically calculating activation energies for the thermal Z → E isomerization. We used 28 density functionals [local spin density approximation, generalized gradient approximation, meta-GGA, hybrid GGA, and hybrid meta-GGA] and five basis sets [6-31G(d), 6-31+G(d,p), 6-311+G(d,p), cc-pVDZ, and aug-cc-pVDZ]. The hybrid GGA functionals performed the best among all tested functionals. We demonstrate that the mean absolute errors of 14 model chemistries approach chemical accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Adrion
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Danil S Kaliakin
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Patrick Neal
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Steven A Lopez
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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46
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Cao KJ, Lyons EF, Smith BE, Denlinger BL, Ma H, Shirian JD, Kramer RH. Cyclodextrin‐Assisted Delivery of Azobenzene Photoswitches for Uniform and Long‐Term Restoration of Light Responses in Degenerated Retinas of Blind Mice. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202100127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J. Cao
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3200 USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3370 USA
| | - Elijah F. Lyons
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3200 USA
| | - Benjamin E. Smith
- Vision Sciences Graduate Program University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐2020 USA
| | - Bristol L. Denlinger
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3200 USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3370 USA
| | - Hong Ma
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3200 USA
| | - Jonathan D. Shirian
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3200 USA
| | - Richard H. Kramer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3200 USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐3370 USA
- Vision Sciences Graduate Program University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720‐2020 USA
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47
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Abstract
Abstract
This article describes the defining characteristics of photochromic dyes and highlights the subset of properties that are of greatest commercial importance. It outlines the history of the industrial exploitation of photochromic colorants before moving on to discuss current and potential applications. In doing so, a brief tour of key types of photochromic dye is provided.
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Zhou X, Belavek KJ, Miller EW. Origins of Ca 2+ Imaging with Fluorescent Indicators. Biochemistry 2021; 60:3547-3554. [PMID: 34251789 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.1c00350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In 1980, Roger Tsien published a paper, in this journal [Tsien, R. Y. (1980) Biochemistry, 19 (11), 2396], titled "New calcium indicators and buffers with high selectivity against magnesium and protons: design, synthesis, and properties of prototype structures". These new buffers included 1,2-bis(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid, or BAPTA, which is still widely used today. And so, the world was set alight with new ways in which to visualize Ca2+. The ability to watch fluctuations in intracellular Ca2+ revolutionized the life sciences, although the fluorescent indicators used today, particularly in neurobiology, no longer rely exclusively on BAPTA but on genetically encoded fluorescent Ca2+ indicators. In this Perspective, we reflect on the origins of Ca2+ imaging with a special focus on the contributions made by Roger Tsien, from the early concept of selective Ca2+ binding described in Biochemistry to optical Ca2+ indicators based on chemically synthesized fluorophores to genetically encoded fluorescent Ca2+ indicators.
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49
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Zheng C, Yu Y, Kuang S, Zhu B, Zhou H, Zhang SQ, Yang J, Shi L, Ran C. β-Amyloid Peptides Manipulate Switching Behaviors of Donor-Acceptor Stenhouse Adducts. Anal Chem 2021; 93:9887-9896. [PMID: 34235921 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c01957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Molecular switching plays a critical role in biological and displaying systems. Donor-acceptor Stenhouse adducts (DASAs) is a newly re-discovered series of switchable photochromes, and light is the most used approach to control its switching behavior. In this report, we speculated that hydrophobic binding pockets of biologically relevant peptides/proteins could be harnessed to alter its switching behavior without the assistance of light. We designed and synthesized a DASA compound SHA-2, and we demonstrated that the Aβ40 species could stabilize SHA-2 in the linear conformation and decrease the rate of molecular switching via fluorescence spectral studies. Moreover, molecular dynamics simulation revealed that SHA-2 could bind to the hydrophobic fragment of the peptide and resulted in substantial changes in the tertiary structure of Aβ40 monomer. This structural change is likely to impede the aggregation of Aβ40, as evidenced by the results from thioflavin T fluorescence and ProteoStat aggregation detection experiments. We believe that our study opens a new window to alter the switching behavior of DASA via DASA-peptide/protein interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zheng
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Room 2301, Building 149, Charlestown, Boston, Massachusetts 02129, United States.,PET Center, Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, United States
| | - Yue Yu
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, University of California, Merced, Merced, California 95343, United States
| | - Shi Kuang
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Room 2301, Building 149, Charlestown, Boston, Massachusetts 02129, United States
| | - Biyue Zhu
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Room 2301, Building 149, Charlestown, Boston, Massachusetts 02129, United States
| | - Heng Zhou
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Room 2301, Building 149, Charlestown, Boston, Massachusetts 02129, United States
| | - Shao-Qing Zhang
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Room 2301, Building 149, Charlestown, Boston, Massachusetts 02129, United States
| | - Jing Yang
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Room 2301, Building 149, Charlestown, Boston, Massachusetts 02129, United States
| | - Liang Shi
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, University of California, Merced, Merced, California 95343, United States
| | - Chongzhao Ran
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Room 2301, Building 149, Charlestown, Boston, Massachusetts 02129, United States
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Cheng HB, Zhang S, Qi J, Liang XJ, Yoon J. Advances in Application of Azobenzene as a Trigger in Biomedicine: Molecular Design and Spontaneous Assembly. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2007290. [PMID: 34028901 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202007290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Azobenzene is a well-known derivative of stimulus-responsive molecular switches and has shown superior performance as a functional material in biomedical applications. The results of multiple studies have led to the development of light/hypoxia-responsive azobenzene for biomedical use. In recent years, long-wavelength-responsive azobenzene has been developed. Matching the longer wavelength absorption and hypoxia-response characteristics of the azobenzene switch unit to the bio-optical window results in a large and effective stimulus response. In addition, azobenzene has been used as a hypoxia-sensitive connector via biological cleavage under appropriate stimulus conditions. This has resulted in on/off state switching of properties such as pharmacology and fluorescence activity. Herein, recent advances in the design and fabrication of azobenzene as a trigger in biomedicine are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Bo Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, 15 North Third Ring Road, Beijing, 100029, P. R. China
| | - Shuchun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, 15 North Third Ring Road, Beijing, 100029, P. R. China
| | - Ji Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Organic-Inorganic Composites, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, 15 North Third Ring Road, Beijing, 100029, P. R. China
| | - Xing-Jie Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, No. 11, First North Road, Zhongguancun, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Juyoung Yoon
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Korea
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