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Cho H, Sung SE, Jang G, Esterhuizen M, Ryu CS, Kim Y, Kim YJ. Adverse effects of the 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor finasteride on Daphnia magna: Endocrine system and lipid metabolism disruption. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 281:116606. [PMID: 38896907 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Finasteride, a steroid 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, is commonly used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and hair loss. However, despite continued use, its environmental implications have not been thoroughly investigated. Thus, we investigated the acute and chronic adverse impacts of finasteride on Daphnia magna, a crucial planktonic crustacean in freshwater ecosystems selected as bioindicator organism for understanding the ecotoxicological effects. Chronic exposure (for 23 days) to finasteride negatively affected development and reproduction, leading to reduced fecundity, delayed first brood, reduced growth, and reduced neonate size. Additionally, acute exposure (< 24 h) caused decreased expression levels of genes crucial for reproduction and development, especially EcR-A/B (ecdysone receptors), Jhe (juvenile hormone esterase), and Vtg2 (vitellogenin), with oxidative stress-related genes. Untargeted lipidomics/metabolomic analyses revealed lipidomic alteration, including 19 upregulated and 4 downregulated enriched lipid ontology categories, and confirmed downregulation of metabolites. Pathway analysis implicated significant effects on metabolic pathways, including the pentose phosphate pathway, histidine metabolism, beta-alanine metabolism, as well as alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism. This comprehensive study unravels the intricate molecular and metabolic responses of D. magna to finasteride exposure, underscoring the multifaceted impacts of this anti-androgenic compound on a keystone species of freshwater ecosystems. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding the environmental repercussions of widely used pharmaceuticals to protect biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunki Cho
- Environmental Safety Group, KIST Europe Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany; Department of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Si-Eun Sung
- Biologische Experimentalphysik, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Giup Jang
- MetaDx Laboratory, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Maranda Esterhuizen
- University of Helsinki, Ecosystems and Environment Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Lahti, Finland
| | - Chang Seon Ryu
- Environmental Safety Group, KIST Europe Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany.
| | - Youngsam Kim
- Environmental Safety Group, KIST Europe Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany; Division of Energy & Environment Technology, University of Science & Technology, Daejeon 34113, South Korea.
| | - Young Jun Kim
- Environmental Safety Group, KIST Europe Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Saarbrücken 66123, Germany; Division of Energy & Environment Technology, University of Science & Technology, Daejeon 34113, South Korea
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Tang W, Shen T, Chen Z. In silico discovery of potential PPI inhibitors for anti-lung cancer activity by targeting the CCND1-CDK4 complex via the P21 inhibition mechanism. Front Chem 2024; 12:1404573. [PMID: 38957406 PMCID: PMC11217521 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1404573] [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: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) is a prevalent and deadly form of lung cancer worldwide with a low 5-year survival rate. Current treatments have limitations, particularly for advanced-stage patients. P21, a protein that inhibits the CCND1-CDK4 complex, plays a crucial role in cell proliferation. Computer-Aided Drug Design (CADD) based on pharmacophores can screen and design PPI inhibitors targeting the CCND1-CDK4 complex. By analyzing known inhibitors, key pharmacophores are identified, and computational methods are used to screen potential PPI inhibitors. Molecular docking, pharmacophore matching, and structure-activity relationship studies optimize the inhibitors. This approach accelerates the discovery of CCND1-CDK4 PPI inhibitors for NSCLC treatment. Molecular dynamics simulations of CCND1-CDK4-P21 and CCND1-CDK4 complexes showed stable behavior, comprehensive sampling, and P21's impact on complex stability and hydrogen bond formation. A pharmacophore model facilitated virtual screening, identifying compounds with favorable binding affinities. Further simulations confirmed the stability and interactions of selected compounds, including 513457. This study demonstrates the potential of CADD in optimizing PPI inhibitors targeting the CCND1-CDK4 complex for NSCLC treatment. Extended simulations and experimental validations are necessary to assess their efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zhoumiao Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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3
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Giatti S, Cioffi L, Diviccaro S, Piazza R, Melcangi RC. Analysis of the finasteride treatment and its withdrawal in the rat hypothalamus and hippocampus at whole-transcriptome level. J Endocrinol Invest 2024:10.1007/s40618-024-02345-y. [PMID: 38493246 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-024-02345-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE As reported in patients treated for androgenetic alopecia with finasteride (i.e., a blocker of the enzyme 5 alpha-reductase) and in an animal model, side effects affecting sexual, psychiatric, neurological, and physical domains, may occur during the treatment and persist with drug suspension. The etiopathogenesis of these side effects has been poorly explored. Therefore, we performed a genome-wide analysis of finasteride effects in the brain of adult male rat. METHODS Animals were treated (i.e., for 20 days) with finasteride (1mg/rat/day). 24 h after the last treatment and 1 month after drug suspension, RNA sequencing analysis was performed in hypothalamus and hippocampus. Data were analyzed by differential expression analysis and Gene-Set Enrichment Analyses (GSEA). RESULTS Data obtained after finasteride treatment showed that 186 genes (i.e., 171 up- and 15 downregulated) and 19 (i.e., 17 up- and 2 downregulated) were differentially expressed in the hypothalamus and hippocampus, respectively. Differential expression analysis at the drug withdrawal failed to identify dysregulated genes. Several gene-sets were enriched in these brain areas at both time points. CONCLUSION Some of the genes reported to be differentially expressed (i.e., TTR, DIO2, CLDN1, CLDN2, SLC4A5, KCNE2, CROT, HCRT, MARCKSL1, VGF, IRF2BPL) and GSEA, suggest a potential link with specific side effects previously observed in patients and in the animal model, such as depression, anxiety, disturbance in memory and attention, and sleep disturbance. These data may provide an important background for future experiments aimed at confirming the pathological role of these genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - L Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - S Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - R Piazza
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - R C Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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Diviccaro S, Herian M, Cioffi L, Audano M, Mitro N, Caruso D, Giatti S, Melcangi RC. Exploring rat corpus cavernosum alterations induced by finasteride treatment and withdrawal. Andrology 2024; 12:674-681. [PMID: 37621185 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Despite its efficacy for treating androgenetic alopecia, finasteride, an inhibitor of 5α-reductase (i.e., the enzyme converting testosterone, T, into dihydrotestosterone, DHT), is associated with several side effects including sexual dysfunction (e.g., erectile dysfunction). These side effects may persist after drug suspension, inducing the so-called post-finasteride syndrome (PFS). The effects of subchronic treatment with finasteride (i.e., 20 days) and its withdrawal (i.e., 1 month) in rat corpus cavernosum have been explored here. Data obtained show that the treatment was able to decrease the levels of the enzyme 5α-reductase type II in the rat corpus cavernosum with increased T and decreased DHT levels. This local change in T metabolism was linked to mechanisms associated with erectile dysfunction. Indeed, by targeted metabolomics, we reported a decrease in the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity, measured by the citrulline/arginine ratio and confirmed by the decrease in NO2 levels, and a decrease in ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) activity, measured by citrulline/ornithine ratio. Interestingly, the T levels are negatively correlated with NOS activity, while those of DHT are positively correlated with OTC activity. Finasteride treatment also induced alterations in the levels of other molecules involved in the control of penile erection, such as norepinephrine and its metabolite, epinephrine. Indeed, plasma levels of norepinephrine and epinephrine were significantly increased and decreased, respectively, suggesting an impairment of these mediators. Interestingly, these modifications were restored by suspension of the drug. Altogether, the results reported here indicate that finasteride treatment, but not its withdrawal, affects T metabolism in the rat corpus cavernosum, and this alteration was linked to mechanisms associated with erectile dysfunction. Data here reported could also suggest that the PFS sexual side effects are more related to dysfunction in a sexual central control rather than peripheral compromised condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Diviccaro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Monika Herian
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Matteo Audano
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Nico Mitro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
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Ben Toumia I, Bachetti T, Chekir-Ghedira L, Profumo A, Ponassi M, Di Domizio A, Izzotti A, Sciacca S, Puglisi C, Forte S, Giuffrida R, Colarossi C, Milardi D, Grasso G, Lanza V, Fiordoro S, Drago G, Tkachenko K, Cardinali B, Romano P, Iervasi E, Vargas GC, Barboro P, Kohnke FH, Rosano C. Fraisinib: a calixpyrrole derivative reducing A549 cell-derived NSCLC tumor in vivo acts as a ligand of the glycine-tRNA synthase, a new molecular target in oncology. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1258108. [PMID: 38235113 PMCID: PMC10791888 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1258108] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose: Lung cancer is the leading cause of death in both men and women, constituting a major public health problem worldwide. Non-small-cell lung cancer accounts for 85%-90% of all lung cancers. We propose a compound that successfully fights tumor growth in vivo by targeting the enzyme GARS1. Experimental approach: We present an in-depth investigation of the mechanism through which Fraisinib [meso-(p-acetamidophenyl)-calix(4)pyrrole] affects the human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cell line. In a xenografted model of non-small-cell lung cancer, Fraisinib was found to reduce tumor mass volume without affecting the vital parameters or body weight of mice. Through a computational approach, we uncovered that glycyl-tRNA synthetase is its molecular target. Differential proteomics analysis further confirmed that pathways regulated by Fraisinib are consistent with glycyl-tRNA synthetase inhibition. Key results: Fraisinib displays a strong anti-tumoral potential coupled with limited toxicity in mice. Glycyl-tRNA synthetase has been identified and validated as a protein target of this compound. By inhibiting GARS1, Fraisinib modulates different key biological processes involved in tumoral growth, aggressiveness, and invasiveness. Conclusion and implications: The overall results indicate that Fraisinib is a powerful inhibitor of non-small-cell lung cancer growth by exerting its action on the enzyme GARS1 while displaying marginal toxicity in animal models. Together with the proven ability of this compound to cross the blood-brain barrier, we can assess that Fraisinib can kill two birds with one stone: targeting the primary tumor and its metastases "in one shot." Taken together, we suggest that inhibiting GARS1 expression and/or GARS1 enzymatic activity may be innovative molecular targets for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Leila Chekir-Ghedira
- Unit of Bioactive Natural Substances and Biotechnology, Faculty of Dental Medicine of Monastir, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Aldo Profumo
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Marco Ponassi
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Alberto Izzotti
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | | | | | - Stefano Forte
- Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo, Viagrande, Italy
| | | | | | - Danilo Milardi
- Istituto di Cristallografia, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Grasso
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Valeria Lanza
- Istituto di Cristallografia, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Catania, Italy
| | - Stefano Fiordoro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Giacomo Drago
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | | | | | - Paolo Romano
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Erika Iervasi
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Paola Barboro
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Franz Heinrich Kohnke
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Farmaceutiche ed Ambientali (CHIBIOFARAM), University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Cioffi L, Cosimo Melcangi R. Post-Finasteride Syndrome And Post-Ssri Sexual Dysfunction: Two Clinical Conditions Apparently Distant, But Very Close. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 72:101114. [PMID: 37993021 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Post-finasteride syndrome and post-SSRI sexual dysfunction, are two poorly explored clinical conditions in which men treated for androgenetic alopecia with finasteride or for depression with SSRI antidepressants show persistent side effects despite drug suspension (e.g., sexual dysfunction, psychological complaints, sleep disorders). Because of some similarities in the symptoms, common pathological mechanisms are proposed here. Indeed, as discussed, clinical studies and preclinical data obtained so far suggest an important role for brain modulators (i.e., neuroactive steroids), neurotransmitters (i.e., serotonin, and cathecolamines), and gut microbiota in the context of the gut-brain axis. In particular, the observed interconnections of these signals in these two clinical conditions may suggest similar etiopathogenetic mechanisms, such as the involvement of the enzyme converting norepinephrine into epinephrine (i.e., phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase). However, despite the current efforts, more work is still needed to advance the understanding of these clinical conditions in terms of diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
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Ntshingila S, Oputu O, Arowolo AT, Khumalo NP. Androgenetic alopecia: An update. JAAD Int 2023; 13:150-158. [PMID: 37823040 PMCID: PMC10562178 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdin.2023.07.005] [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] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common nonscarring alopecia and is characterised by distinct gradual patterned hair loss. AGA is mediated by genetic predisposition and excessive follicular sensitivity to androgens, mainly in males, leading to the progressive conversion of scalp terminal hair into vellus hair. Although highly prevalent, it is not fatal but may have a severe psychosocial impact, especially on females and younger males. Significant advances have been made in understanding AGA's epidemiology and pathophysiology, but only 2 drugs remain approved by the FDA - finasteride and minoxidil. Prolonged use of these drugs, is a prerequisite for enhanced treatment response. However, this leads to poor medication adherence and adverse effects from extended use eg, the "postfinasteride syndrome" which persists beyond stopping the drug. Hence, there is a need for research on more effective alternative treatments for AGA, with fewer side effects. This paper reviewed recent advances in AGA pathophysiology and its treatment options. The recently characterized structure of type 2, 5-alpha reductase holds significance in comprehending present and prospective treatments of AGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sincengile Ntshingila
- Hair and Skin Research Laboratory, Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ogheneochuko Oputu
- Hair and Skin Research Laboratory, Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Afolake T. Arowolo
- Hair and Skin Research Laboratory, Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nonhlanhla P. Khumalo
- Hair and Skin Research Laboratory, Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Bugatti K, Sartori A, Battistini L, Coppa C, Vanhulle E, Noppen S, Provinciael B, Naesens L, Stevaert A, Contini A, Vermeire K, Zanardi F. Novel Polymyxin-Inspired Peptidomimetics Targeting the SARS-CoV-2 Spike:hACE2 Interface. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108765. [PMID: 37240111 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Though the bulk of the COVID-19 pandemic is behind, the search for effective and safe anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs continues to be relevant. A highly pursued approach for antiviral drug development involves targeting the viral spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 to prevent its attachment to the cellular receptor ACE2. Here, we exploited the core structure of polymyxin B, a naturally occurring antibiotic, to design and synthesize unprecedented peptidomimetics (PMs), intended to target contemporarily two defined, non-overlapping regions of the S receptor-binding domain (RBD). Monomers 1, 2, and 8, and heterodimers 7 and 10 bound to the S-RBD with micromolar affinity in cell-free surface plasmon resonance assays (KD ranging from 2.31 μM to 2.78 μM for dimers and 8.56 μM to 10.12 μM for monomers). Although the PMs were not able to fully protect cell cultures from infection with authentic live SARS-CoV-2, dimer 10 exerted a minimal but detectable inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 entry in U87.ACE2+ and A549.ACE2.TMPRSS2+ cells. These results validated a previous modeling study and provided the first proof-of-feasibility of using medium-sized heterodimeric PMs for targeting the S-RBD. Thus, heterodimers 7 and 10 may serve as a lead for the development of optimized compounds, which are structurally related to polymyxin, with improved S-RBD affinity and anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Bugatti
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Sartori
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Lucia Battistini
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Crescenzo Coppa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Venezian 21, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Emiel Vanhulle
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sam Noppen
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Becky Provinciael
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lieve Naesens
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Annelies Stevaert
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alessandro Contini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Venezian 21, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Kurt Vermeire
- KU Leuven, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Franca Zanardi
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
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Natarajan P, Metin O. Facile preparation of N-tert-butyl amides under heat-, metal- and acid-free conditions by using tert-butyl nitrite (TBN) as a practical carbon source. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:6548-6551. [PMID: 37161946 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc01168b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
tert-Butyl nitrite (TBN) is a nontoxic substance that has frequently been used as a source of nitrogen, oxygen, or nitric oxide (NO), but not as a carbon source in chemical transformations. Here, for the first time to the best of our knowledge, we introduced TBN as a source of carbon (tert-butyl group) for the synthesis of highly valuable N-tert-butyl amides from nitriles and water under very mild conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Palani Natarajan
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Koç University, Sariyer, Istanbul 34450, Turkey.
- Department of Chemistry & CAS, Panjab University, Chandigarh-160014, India
| | - Onder Metin
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Koç University, Sariyer, Istanbul 34450, Turkey.
- Koç University Surface Science and Technology Center (KUYTAM), Sariyer, Istanbul 34450, Turkey.
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10
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Identification of a novel off-target of paroxetine: Possible role in sexual dysfunction induced by this SSRI antidepressant drug. J Mol Struct 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2022.133690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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11
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Sze Y, Brunton PJ. Neurosteroids and early-life programming: An updated perspective. CURRENT OPINION IN ENDOCRINE AND METABOLIC RESEARCH 2022; 25:100367. [PMID: 36561280 PMCID: PMC7613978 DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2022.100367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Early-life stress can lead to detrimental offspring outcomes, including an increased risk for mood disorders and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation. Neurosteroids bind to ligand-gated neurotransmitter receptors, rapidly modulating neuronal excitability and promoting termination of stress responses. Reduced neurosteroidogenesis underlies some of the aberrant neuroendocrine and behavioural phenotypes observed in adult prenatally stressed rodents. During development, disruptions in neurosteroid generation and action also lead to long-term programming effects on the off-spring's brain and behaviour. Here, we review recent advances in the field, focusing on the interaction between neurosteroids and early-life stress outcomes in adulthood and in the perinatal period. We also discuss the direction of future research, with emphasis on quantification methods, sex differences, and neurosteroids as targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Sze
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, Scotland, UK
| | - Paula J Brunton
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, Scotland, UK
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Malacrida A, Di Domizio A, Bentivegna A, Cislaghi G, Messuti E, Tabano SM, Giussani C, Zuliani V, Rivara M, Nicolini G. MV1035 Overcomes Temozolomide Resistance in Patient-Derived Glioblastoma Stem Cell Lines. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:70. [PMID: 35053068 PMCID: PMC8772739 DOI: 10.3390/biology11010070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM, grade IV glioma) represents the most aggressive brain tumor and patients with GBM have a poor prognosis. Until now surgical resection followed by radiotherapy and temozolomide (TMZ) treatment represents the standard strategy for GBM. We showed that the imidazobenzoxazin-5-thione MV1035 is able to significantly reduce GBM U87-MG cells migration and invasiveness through inhibition of the RNA demethylase ALKBH5. In this work, we focus on the DNA repair protein ALKBH2, a further MV1035 target resulting from SPILLO-PBSS proteome-wide scale in silico analysis. Our data demonstrate that MV1035 inhibits the activity of ALKBH2, known to be involved in GBM TMZ resistance. MV1035 was used on both U87-MG and two patient-derived (PD) glioma stem cells (GSCs): in combination with TMZ, it has a significant synergistic effect in reducing cell viability and sphere formation. Moreover, MV1035 induces a reduction in MGMT expression in PD-GSCs cell lines most likely through a mechanism that acts on MGMT promoter methylation. Taken together our data show that MV1035 could act as an inhibitor potentially helpful to overcome TMZ resistance and able to reduce GBM migration and invasiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Malacrida
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy; (A.M.); (A.B.); (E.M.); (C.G.); (G.N.)
- Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza dell’Ateneo Nuovo 1, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Angela Bentivegna
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy; (A.M.); (A.B.); (E.M.); (C.G.); (G.N.)
- Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza dell’Ateneo Nuovo 1, 20126 Milan, Italy
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giacomo Cislaghi
- SPILLOproject, Via Stradivari 17, 20037 Paderno Dugnano, Italy; (A.D.D.); (G.C.)
| | - Eleonora Messuti
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy; (A.M.); (A.B.); (E.M.); (C.G.); (G.N.)
| | - Silvia Maria Tabano
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy;
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Giussani
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy; (A.M.); (A.B.); (E.M.); (C.G.); (G.N.)
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Neuroscience, S. Gerardo Hospital, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Valentina Zuliani
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy;
| | - Mirko Rivara
- Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy;
| | - Gabriella Nicolini
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy; (A.M.); (A.B.); (E.M.); (C.G.); (G.N.)
- Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza dell’Ateneo Nuovo 1, 20126 Milan, Italy
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy
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