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Li H, Huang Y, Yang Q, Zhang Z, Shen S, Guo H, Wei W. Pharmacological activation of TLR7 exerts inhibition on the replication of EV-D68 in respiratory cells. J Virol 2024; 98:e0043424. [PMID: 38690875 PMCID: PMC11237570 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00434-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The globally reemerging respiratory pathogen enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is implicated in outbreaks of severe respiratory illness and associated with acute flaccid myelitis. However, there remains a lack of effective treatments for EV-D68 infection. In this work, we found that the host Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) proteins, which function as powerful innate immune sensors, were selectively elevated in expression in response to EV-D68 infection. Subsequently, we investigated the impact of Vesatolimod (GS-9620), a Toll-like receptor 7 agonist, on EV-D68 replication. Our findings revealed that EV-D68 infection resulted in increased mRNA levels of TLR7. Treatment with Vesatolimod significantly inhibited EV-D68 replication [half maximal effective concentration (EC50) = 0.1427 µM] without inducing significant cytotoxicity at virucidal concentrations. Although Vesatolimod exhibited limited impact on EV-D68 attachment, it suppressed RNA replication and viral protein synthesis after virus entry. Vesatolimod broadly inhibited the replication of circulating isolated strains of EV-D68. Furthermore, our findings demonstrated that treatment with Vesatolimod conferred resistance to both respiratory and neural cells against EV-D68 infection. Overall, these results present a promising strategy for drug development by pharmacologically activating TLR7 to initiate an antiviral state in EV-D68-infected cells selectively.IMPORTANCEConventional strategies for antiviral drug development primarily focus on directly targeting viral proteases or key components, as well as host proteins involved in viral replication. In this study, based on our intriguing discovery that enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) infection specifically upregulates the expression of immune sensor Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) protein, which is either absent or expressed at low levels in respiratory cells, we propose a potential antiviral approach utilizing TLR7 agonists to activate EV-D68-infected cells into an anti-viral defense state. Notably, our findings demonstrate that pharmacological activation of TLR7 effectively suppresses EV-D68 replication in respiratory tract cells through a TLR7/MyD88-dependent mechanism. This study not only presents a promising drug candidate and target against EV-D68 dissemination but also highlights the potential to exploit unique alterations in cellular innate immune responses induced by viral infections, selectively inducing a defensive state in infected cells while safeguarding uninfected normal cells from potential adverse effects associated with therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huili Li
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yuehan Huang
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Qingran Yang
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Siyu Shen
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Haoran Guo
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Transplantation of Ministry of Education, Institute of Translational Medicine, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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2
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Huang PN, Hsia SH, Huang KYA, Chen CJ, Wang ET, Shih SR, Lin TY. Reflecting on the 1998 enterovirus outbreak: A 25-year retrospective and learned lessons. Biomed J 2024:100715. [PMID: 38492637 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2024.100715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) infections pose a significant public health concern in the Asia-Pacific region. EV-A71 is primarily responsible for causing hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in children. However, this virus can also lead to severe and potentially fatal neurological consequences in affected individuals. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the molecular virology, epidemiology, and recombination events associated with EV-A71. The literature extensively covers the clinical manifestations and neurological symptoms that accompany EV-A71 infections. One of the complications explored in this review is brainstem encephalitis, which can arise as a result of EV-A71 infections. Brainstem encephalitis refers to inflammation of the brainstem, a critical region responsible for various bodily functions. The review examines the underlying mechanisms, diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and prognosis for central nervous system infections involving EV-A71. Neurological complications associated with EV-A71 infections are diverse and can have severe consequences. These complications may include aseptic meningitis, acute flaccid paralysis, and acute transverse myelitis. The review delves into the pathophysiology of these complications, shedding light on the molecular mechanisms through which EV-A71 affects the central nervous system. Accurate diagnosis of EV-A71 infections is crucial for appropriate management and treatment. Treatment options for EV-A71 infections primarily focus on supportive care, as there are currently no specific antiviral drugs available for this virus. The review highlights the importance of managing symptoms, such as fever, dehydration, and pain relief, to alleviate the burden on affected individuals. Prognosis for individuals with central nervous system (CNS) infections involving EV-A71 can vary depending on the severity of the complications. The review provides insights into the long-term outcomes and potential neurological sequelae associated with EV-A71 infections. In conclusion, EV-A71 infections have emerged as a major public health concern in the Asia-Pacific region. This review aims to enhance our understanding of the molecular virology, epidemiology, and neurological complications associated with EV-A71. By examining the underlying mechanisms, diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and prognosis, this review contributes to the development of effective strategies for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of EV-A71 infections. The paper presents a comprehensive analysis of worldwide data pertaining to outbreaks of EV-A71 and HFMD. The subsequent discourse delves into the advancement and strategic formulation pertaining to the creation of vaccines targeting EV-A71. In summary, this study provides a comprehensive examination of the potential obstacles and considerations involved in the management and treatment of EV-A71 infections. Additionally, it proposes suggestions for future research and development endeavors with the objective of formulating efficacious treatment approaches for this viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Nien Huang
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shao-Hsuan Hsia
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatric Respiratory Therapy, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Ying Arthur Huang
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Jung Chen
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - En-Tzu Wang
- Division of Acute Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Ru Shih
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Research Center for Food and Cosmetic Safety, and Graduate Institute of Health Industry Technology, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Tzou-Yien Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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3
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Wang S, Pang Z, Fan H, Tong Y. Advances in anti-EV-A71 drug development research. J Adv Res 2024; 56:137-156. [PMID: 37001813 PMCID: PMC10834817 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) is capable of causing hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), which may lead to neurological sequelae and even death. As EV-A71 is resistant to environmental changes and mutates easily, there is still a lack of effective treatments or globally available vaccines. AIM OF REVIEW For more than 50 years since the HFMD epidemic, related drug research has been conducted. Progress in this area can promote the further application of existing potential drugs and develop more efficient and safe antiviral drugs, and provide useful reference for protecting the younger generation and maintaining public health security. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW At present, researchers have identified hundreds of EV-A71 inhibitors based on screening repurposed drugs, targeted structural design, and rational modification of previously effective drugs as the main development strategies. This review systematically introduces the current potential drugs to inhibit EV-A71 infection, including viral inhibitors targeting key sites such as the viral capsid, RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), 2C protein, internal ribosome entry site (IRES), 3C proteinase (3Cpro), and 2A proteinase (2Apro), starting from each stage of the viral life cycle. Meanwhile, the progress of host-targeting antiviral drugs and their development are summarized in terms of regulating host immunity, inhibiting autophagy or apoptosis, and regulating the cellular redox environment. In addition, the current clinical methods for the prevention and treatment of HFMD are summarized and discussed with the aim of providing support and recommendations for the treatment of enterovirus infections including EV-A71.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqi Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Zehan Pang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Huahao Fan
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China.
| | - Yigang Tong
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China; Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China.
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Kejriwal R, Evans T, Calabrese J, Swistak L, Alexandrescu L, Cohen M, Rahman N, Henriksen N, Charan Dash R, Hadden MK, Stonehouse NJ, Rowlands DJ, Kingston NJ, Hartnoll M, Dobson SJ, White SJ. Development of Enterovirus Antiviral Agents That Target the Viral 2C Protein. ChemMedChem 2023; 18:e202200541. [PMID: 36792530 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202200541] [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: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
The Enterovirus (EV) genus includes several important human and animal pathogens. EV-A71, EV-D68, poliovirus (PV), and coxsackievirus (CV) outbreaks have affected millions worldwide, causing a range of upper respiratory, skin, and neuromuscular diseases, including acute flaccid myelitis, and hand-foot-and-mouth disease. There are no FDA-approved antiviral therapeutics for these enteroviruses. This study describes novel antiviral compounds targeting the conserved non-structural viral protein 2C with low micromolar to nanomolar IC50 values. The selection of resistant mutants resulted in amino acid substitutions in the viral capsid protein, implying these compounds may play a role in inhibiting the interaction of 2C and the capsid protein. The assembly and encapsidation stages of the viral life cycle still need to be fully understood, and the inhibitors reported here could be useful probes in understanding these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishabh Kejriwal
- Biology/Physics Building Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, 91 North Eagleville Road, Unit-3125, Storrs, CT 06269-3125, USA
| | - Tristan Evans
- Biology/Physics Building Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, 91 North Eagleville Road, Unit-3125, Storrs, CT 06269-3125, USA
| | - Joshua Calabrese
- Biology/Physics Building Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, 91 North Eagleville Road, Unit-3125, Storrs, CT 06269-3125, USA
| | - Lea Swistak
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité Dynamics of Host-Pathogen Interactions Unit, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Lauren Alexandrescu
- Biology/Physics Building Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, 91 North Eagleville Road, Unit-3125, Storrs, CT 06269-3125, USA
| | - Michelle Cohen
- Biology/Physics Building Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, 91 North Eagleville Road, Unit-3125, Storrs, CT 06269-3125, USA
| | - Nahian Rahman
- Biology/Physics Building Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, 91 North Eagleville Road, Unit-3125, Storrs, CT 06269-3125, USA
| | - Niel Henriksen
- Atomwise Inc., 717 Market St #800, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA
| | - Radha Charan Dash
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, 69 North Eagleville Road, Unit 3092, Storrs, CT 06029-3092, USA
| | - M Kyle Hadden
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, 69 North Eagleville Road, Unit 3092, Storrs, CT 06029-3092, USA
| | - Nicola J Stonehouse
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - David J Rowlands
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Natalie J Kingston
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Madeline Hartnoll
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Samuel J Dobson
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Simon J White
- Biology/Physics Building Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, 91 North Eagleville Road, Unit-3125, Storrs, CT 06269-3125, USA
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SARS-CoV-2 proteases Mpro and PLpro: Design of inhibitors with predicted high potency and low mammalian toxicity using artificial neural networks, ligand-protein docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and ADMET calculations. Comput Biol Med 2023; 153:106449. [PMID: 36586228 PMCID: PMC9788855 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2022.106449] [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: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The main (Mpro) and papain-like (PLpro) proteases are highly conserved viral proteins essential for replication of the COVID-19 virus, SARS-COV-2. Therefore, a logical plan for producing new drugs against this pathogen is to discover inhibitors of these enzymes. Accordingly, the goal of the present work was to devise a computational approach to design, characterize, and select compounds predicted to be potent dual inhibitors - effective against both Mpro and PLpro. The first step employed LigDream, an artificial neural network, to create a virtual ligand library. Ligands with computed ADMET profiles indicating drug-like properties and low mammalian toxicity were selected for further study. Initial docking of these ligands into the active sites of Mpro and PLpro was done with GOLD, and the highest-scoring ligands were redocked with AutoDock Vina to determine binding free energies (ΔG). Compounds 89-00, 89-07, 89-32, and 89-38 exhibited favorable ΔG values for Mpro (-7.6 to -8.7 kcal/mol) and PLpro (-9.1 to -9.7 kcal/mol). Global docking of selected compounds with the Mpro dimer identified prospective allosteric inhibitors 89-00, 89-27, and 89-40 (ΔG -8.2 to -8.9 kcal/mol). Molecular dynamics simulations performed on Mpro and PLpro active site complexes with the four top-scoring ligands from Vina demonstrated that the most stable complexes were formed with compounds 89-32 and 89-38. Overall, the present computational strategy generated new compounds with predicted drug-like characteristics, low mammalian toxicity, and high inhibitory potencies against both target proteases to form stable complexes. Further preclinical studies will be required to validate the in silico findings before the lead compounds could be considered for clinical trials.
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6
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Direct-Acting Antivirals and Host-Targeting Approaches against Enterovirus B Infections: Recent Advances. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/ph16020203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Enterovirus B (EV-B)-related diseases, which can be life threatening in high-risk populations, have been recognized as a serious health problem, but their clinical treatment is largely supportive, and no selective antivirals are available on the market. As their clinical relevance has become more serious, efforts in the field of anti-EV-B inhibitors have greatly increased and many potential antivirals with very high selectivity indexes and promising in vitro activities have been discovered. The scope of this review encompasses recent advances in the discovery of new compounds with anti-viral activity against EV-B, as well as further progress in repurposing drugs to treat these infections. Current progress and future perspectives in drug discovery against EV-Bs are briefly discussed and existing gaps are spotlighted.
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7
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Synthesis of Diversified Pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine Frameworks from 5-Aminopyrazoles and Alkynyl Aldehydes via Switchable C≡C Bond Activation Approaches. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27196381. [PMID: 36234926 PMCID: PMC9571537 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27196381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A cascade 6-endo-dig cyclization reaction was developed for the switchable synthesis of halogen and non-halogen-functionalized pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines from 5-aminopyrazoles and alkynyl aldehydes via C≡C bond activation with silver, iodine, or NBS. In addition to its wide substrate scope, the reaction showed good functional group tolerance as well as excellent regional selectivity. This new protocol manipulated three natural products, and the arylation, alkynylation, alkenylation, and selenization of iodine-functionalized products. These reactions demonstrated the potential applications of this new method.
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8
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Wu Z, Ma G, Zhu H, Chen M, Huang M, Xie X, Li X. Plant Viral Coat Proteins as Biochemical Targets for Antiviral Compounds. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:8892-8900. [PMID: 35830295 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c02888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Coat proteins (CPs) of RNA plant viruses play a pivotal role in virus particle assembly, vector transmission, host identification, RNA replication, and intracellular and intercellular movement. Numerous compounds targeting CPs have been designed, synthesized, and screened for their antiviral activities. This review is intended to fill a knowledge gap where a comprehensive summary is needed for antiviral agent discovery based on plant viral CPs. In this review, major achievements are summarized with emphasis on plant viral CPs as biochemical targets and action mechanisms of antiviral agents. This review hopefully provides new insights and references for the further development of new safe and effective antiviral pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilin Wu
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Huaxi District, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Guangming Ma
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Huaxi District, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Hengmin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Huaxi District, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Meiqing Chen
- College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Min Huang
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Huaxi District, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xin Xie
- College of Agriculture, Guizhou University, Huaxi District, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xiangyang Li
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Huaxi District, Guiyang 550025, China
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Smolobochkin AV, Gazizov AS, Garifzyanov AR, Burilov AR, Pudovik MA. Methods for the synthesis of 1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine derivatives. Russ Chem Bull 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11172-022-3487-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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10
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Wang J, Hu Y, Zheng M. Enterovirus A71 antivirals: Past, present, and future. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:1542-1566. [PMID: 35847514 PMCID: PMC9279511 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) is a significant human pathogen, especially in children. EV-A71 infection is one of the leading causes of hand, foot, and mouth diseases (HFMD), and can lead to neurological complications such as acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) in severe cases. Although three EV-A71 vaccines are available in China, they are not broadly protective and have reduced efficacy against emerging strains. There is currently no approved antiviral for EV-A71. Significant progress has been made in developing antivirals against EV-A71 by targeting both viral proteins and host factors. However, viral capsid inhibitors and protease inhibitors failed in clinical trials of human rhinovirus infection due to limited efficacy or side effects. This review discusses major discoveries in EV-A71 antiviral development, analyzes the advantages and limitations of each drug target, and highlights the knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to advance the field forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, the University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Yanmei Hu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, the University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Madeleine Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, the University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
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11
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Hu Y, Ma C, Wang J. Cytopathic Effect Assay and Plaque Assay to Evaluate in vitro Activity of Antiviral Compounds Against Human Coronaviruses 229E, OC43, and NL63. Bio Protoc 2022; 12:e4314. [PMID: 35284599 PMCID: PMC8855088 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses are important human pathogens, among which the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent for the COVID-19 pandemic. To combat the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, there is a pressing need for antivirals, especially broad-spectrum antivirals that are active against all seven human coronaviruses (HCoVs). For this reason, we are interested in developing antiviral assays to expedite the drug discovery process. Here, we provide the detailed protocol for the cytopathic effect (CPE) assay and the plaque assay for human coronaviruses 229E (HCoV-229E), HCoV-OC43, and HCoV-NL63, to identify novel antivirals against HCoVs. Neutral red was used in the CPE assay, as it is relatively inexpensive and more sensitive than other reagents. Multiple parameters including multiplicity of infection, incubation time and temperature, and staining conditions have been optimized for CPE and plaque assays for HCoV-229E in MRC-5, Huh-7, and RD cell lines; HCoV-OC43 in RD, MRC-5, and BSC-1 cell lines, and HCoV-NL63 in Vero E6, Huh-7, MRC-5, and RD cell lines. Both CPE and plaque assays have been calibrated with the positive control compounds remdesivir and GC-376. Both CPE and plaque assays have high sensitivity, excellent reproducibility, and are cost-effective. The protocols described herein can be used as surrogate assays in the biosafety level 2 facility to identify entry inhibitors and protease inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2, as HCoV-NL63 also uses ACE2 as the receptor for cell entry, and the main proteases of HCoV-OC43 and SARS-CoV-2 are highly conserved. In addition, these assays can also be used as secondary assays to profile the broad-spectrum antiviral activity of existing SARS-CoV-2 drug candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmei Hu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Chunlong Ma
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
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12
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Hu Y, Jo H, DeGrado WF, Wang J. Brilacidin, a COVID‐19 Drug Candidate, demonstrates broad‐spectrum antiviral activity against human coronaviruses OC43, 229E and NL63 through targeting both the virus and the host cell. J Med Virol 2022; 94:2188-2200. [PMID: 35080027 PMCID: PMC8930451 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Brilacidin, a mimetic of host defense peptides (HDPs), is currently in Phase 2 clinical trial as an antibiotic drug candidate. A recent study reported that brilacidin has antiviral activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) by inactivating the virus. In this study, we discovered an additional mechanism of action of brilacidin by targeting heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) on the host cell surface. Brilacidin, but not acetyl brilacidin, inhibits the entry of SARS‐CoV‐2 pseudovirus into multiple cell lines, and heparin, an HSPG mimetic, abolishes the inhibitory activity of brilacidin on SARS‐CoV‐2 pseudovirus cell entry. In addition, we found that brilacidin has broad‐spectrum antiviral activity against multiple human coronaviruses (HCoVs) including HCoV‐229E, HCoV‐OC43, and HCoV‐NL63. Mechanistic studies revealed that brilacidin has a dual antiviral mechanism of action including virucidal activity and binding to coronavirus attachment factor HSPGs on the host cell surface. Brilacidin partially loses its antiviral activity when heparin was included in the cell cultures, supporting the host‐targeting mechanism. Drug combination therapy showed that brilacidin has a strong synergistic effect with remdesivir against HCoV‐OC43 in cell culture. Taken together, this study provides appealing findings for the translational potential of brilacidin as a broad‐spectrum antiviral for coronaviruses including SARS‐CoV‐2. Brilacidin has broad‐spectrum antiviral activity against multiple human coronaviruses (HCoVs) including HCoV‐229E, HCoV‐OC43, and HCoV‐NL63 Brilacidin, but not acetyl brilacidin, inhibits the entry of SARS‐CoV‐2 pseudovirus into multiple cell lines Heparin, an heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) mimetic, abolishes the inhibitory activity of brilacidin on SARS‐CoV‐2 pseudovirus cell entry Brilacidin has a dual antiviral mechanism of action including virucidal activity and binding to coronavirus attachment factor HSPGs on the host cell surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmei Hu
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyCollege of Pharmacy, The University of ArizonaTucsonArizona85721United States
| | - Hyunil Jo
- Department of Pharmaceutical ChemistrySchool of PharmacyUniversity of California, San FranciscoCalifornia94158United States
| | - William F. DeGrado
- Department of Pharmaceutical ChemistrySchool of PharmacyUniversity of California, San FranciscoCalifornia94158United States
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyCollege of Pharmacy, The University of ArizonaTucsonArizona85721United States
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Groaz E, De Clercq E, Herdewijn P. Anno 2021: Which antivirals for the coming decade? ANNUAL REPORTS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2021; 57:49-107. [PMID: 34744210 PMCID: PMC8563371 DOI: 10.1016/bs.armc.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Despite considerable progress in the development of antiviral drugs, among which anti-immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) medications can be considered real success stories, many viral infections remain without an effective treatment. This not only applies to infectious outbreaks caused by zoonotic viruses that have recently spilled over into humans such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2), but also ancient viral diseases that have been brought under control by vaccination such as variola (smallpox), poliomyelitis, measles, and rabies. A largely unsolved problem are endemic respiratory infections due to influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and rhinoviruses, whose associated morbidity will likely worsen with increasing air pollution. Furthermore, climate changes will expose industrialized countries to a dangerous resurgence of viral hemorrhagic fevers, which might also become global infections. Herein, we summarize the recent progress that has been made in the search for new antivirals against these different threats that the world population will need to confront with increasing frequency in the next decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Groaz
- Medicinal Chemistry, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy,Corresponding author:
| | - Erik De Clercq
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Piet Herdewijn
- Medicinal Chemistry, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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