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Polini B, Zallocco L, Gado F, Ferrisi R, Ricardi C, Zuccarini M, Carnicelli V, Manera C, Ronci M, Lucacchini A, Zucchi R, Giusti L, Chiellini G. A Proteomic Approach Identified TFEB as a Key Player in the Protective Action of Novel CB2R Bitopic Ligand FD22a against the Deleterious Effects Induced by β-Amyloid in Glial Cells. Cells 2024; 13:875. [PMID: 38786097 PMCID: PMC11119469 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100875] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are progressive multifactorial disorders of the nervous system sharing common pathogenic features, including intracellular misfolded protein aggregation, mitochondrial deficit, and inflammation. Taking into consideration the multifaceted nature of NDDs, development of multitarget-directed ligands (MTDLs) has evolved as an attractive therapeutic strategy. Compounds that target the cannabinoid receptor type II (CB2R) are rapidly emerging as novel effective MTDLs against common NDDs, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). We recently developed the first CB2R bitopic/dualsteric ligand, namely FD22a, which revealed the ability to induce neuroprotection with fewer side effects. To explore the potential of FD22a as a multitarget drug for the treatment of NDDs, we investigated here its ability to prevent the toxic effect of β-amyloid (Aβ25-35 peptide) on human cellular models of neurodegeneration, such as microglia (HMC3) and glioblastoma (U87-MG) cell lines. Our results displayed that FD22a efficiently prevented Aβ25-35 cytotoxic and proinflammatory effects in both cell lines and counteracted β-amyloid-induced depression of autophagy in U87-MG cells. Notably, a quantitative proteomic analysis of U87-MG cells revealed that FD22a was able to potently stimulate the autophagy-lysosomal pathway (ALP) by activating its master transcriptional regulator TFEB, ultimately increasing the potential of this novel CB2R bitopic/dualsteric ligand as a multitarget drug for the treatment of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Polini
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (B.P.); (C.R.); (V.C.); (R.Z.)
| | - Lorenzo Zallocco
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Francesca Gado
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milano, Italy; (F.G.); (R.F.)
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Rebecca Ferrisi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milano, Italy; (F.G.); (R.F.)
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Caterina Ricardi
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (B.P.); (C.R.); (V.C.); (R.Z.)
| | - Mariachiara Zuccarini
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University G. D’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (M.Z.); (M.R.)
| | - Vittoria Carnicelli
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (B.P.); (C.R.); (V.C.); (R.Z.)
| | | | - Maurizio Ronci
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University G. D’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (M.Z.); (M.R.)
- Interuniversitary Consortium for Engineering and Medicine (COIIM), 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Antonio Lucacchini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Riccardo Zucchi
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (B.P.); (C.R.); (V.C.); (R.Z.)
| | - Laura Giusti
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Grazia Chiellini
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (B.P.); (C.R.); (V.C.); (R.Z.)
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Zhao R, Zhu J, Jiang X, Bai R. Click chemistry-aided drug discovery: A retrospective and prospective outlook. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 264:116037. [PMID: 38101038 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Click chemistry has emerged as a valuable tool for rapid compound synthesis, presenting notable advantages and convenience in the exploration of potential drug candidates. In particular, in situ click chemistry capitalizes on enzymes as reaction templates, leveraging their favorable conformation to selectively link individual building blocks and generate novel hits. This review comprehensively outlines and introduces the extensive use of click chemistry in compound library construction, and hit and lead discovery, supported by specific research examples. Additionally, it discusses the limitations and precautions associated with the application of click chemistry in drug discovery. Our intention for this review is to contribute to the development of a modular synthetic approach for the rapid identification of drug candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, PR China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, PR China
| | - Junlong Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, PR China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, PR China
| | - Xiaoying Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, PR China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, PR China
| | - Renren Bai
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, PR China; Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-cancer Chinese Medicines, Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, PR China.
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Zha J, He J, Wu C, Zhang M, Liu X, Zhang J. Designing drugs and chemical probes with the dualsteric approach. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:8651-8677. [PMID: 37990599 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00650f] [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: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Traditionally, drugs are monovalent, targeting only one site on the protein surface. This includes orthosteric and allosteric drugs, which bind the protein at orthosteric and allosteric sites, respectively. Orthosteric drugs are good in potency, whereas allosteric drugs have better selectivity and are solutions to classically undruggable targets. However, it would be difficult to simultaneously reach high potency and selectivity when targeting only one site. Also, both kinds of monovalent drugs suffer from mutation-caused drug resistance. To overcome these obstacles, dualsteric modulators have been proposed in the past twenty years. Compared to orthosteric or allosteric drugs, dualsteric modulators are bivalent (or bitopic) with two pharmacophores. Each of the two pharmacophores bind the protein at the orthosteric and an allosteric site, which could bring the modulator with special properties beyond monovalent drugs. In this study, we comprehensively review the current development of dualsteric modulators. Our main effort reason and illustrate the aims to apply the dualsteric approach, including a "double win" of potency and selectivity, overcoming mutation-caused drug resistance, developments of function-biased modulators, and design of partial agonists. Moreover, the strengths of the dualsteric technique also led to its application outside pharmacy, including the design of highly sensitive fluorescent tracers and usage as molecular rulers. Besides, we also introduced drug targets, designing strategies, and validation methods of dualsteric modulators. Finally, we detail the conclusions and perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyin Zha
- College of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jixiao He
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengwei Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingyang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyi Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Medicinal Chemistry and Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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4
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Steinmüller SAM, Tutov A, Hislop JN, Decker M. Bridging the Binding Sites 2.0: Photoswitchable Dualsteric Ligands for the Cannabinoid 2 Receptor. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:3737-3744. [PMID: 37792463 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00509] [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: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) has high, unexploited therapeutic potential in several central nervous system disorders due to its involvement in neuroinflammatory processes and pathologies like neurodegeneration. Dualsteric/bitopic ligands are currently developed to achieve receptor subtype selectivity and biased signaling. To obtain a molecular tool compound with photoswitchable potential dualsteric properties, we applied two different approaches to link a positive allosteric modulator with an orthosteric agonist via a photochromic unit. We characterized the photophysical properties of all compounds and determined efficacy in internalization, calcium mobilization, and BRET studies. We report the first potentially dualsteric photoswitchable ligand for studying molecular mechanisms of CB2R-associated pathologies. Compound 17-para is a submicromolar "cis-on" agonist with >10-fold higher potency compared to its trans photoisomer and allows high spatiotemporal control of CB2R activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie A M Steinmüller
- Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Institut für Pharmazie und Lebensmittelchemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Am Hubland, D-97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Anna Tutov
- Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Institut für Pharmazie und Lebensmittelchemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Am Hubland, D-97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - James N Hislop
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Decker
- Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Institut für Pharmazie und Lebensmittelchemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Am Hubland, D-97074 Würzburg, Germany
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5
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Filipiuc SI, Neagu AN, Uritu CM, Tamba BI, Filipiuc LE, Tudorancea IM, Boca AN, Hâncu MF, Porumb V, Bild W. The Skin and Natural Cannabinoids-Topical and Transdermal Applications. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1049. [PMID: 37513960 PMCID: PMC10386449 DOI: 10.3390/ph16071049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The chemical constituents of the Cannabis plant known as cannabinoids have been extensively researched for their potential therapeutic benefits. The use of cannabinoids applied to the skin as a potential method for both skin-related benefits and systemic administration has attracted increasing interest in recent years. This review aims to present an overview of the most recent scientific research on cannabinoids used topically, including their potential advantages for treating a number of skin conditions like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and acne. Additionally, with a focus on the pharmacokinetics and security of this route of administration, we investigate the potential of the transdermal delivery of cannabinoids as a method of systemic administration. The review also discusses the restrictions and difficulties related to the application of cannabinoids on the skin, emphasizing the potential of topical cannabinoids as a promising route for both localized and systemic administration. More studies are required to fully comprehend the efficacy and safety of cannabinoids in various settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silviu-Iulian Filipiuc
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Universitatii Street, 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Department of Physiology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Anca-Narcisa Neagu
- Laboratory of Animal Histology, Faculty of Biology, "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University of Iasi, Carol I bvd, No. 20A, 700505 Iasi, Romania
| | - Cristina Mariana Uritu
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Universitatii Street, 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Bogdan-Ionel Tamba
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Universitatii Street, 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Universitatii Street, 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Leontina-Elena Filipiuc
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Universitatii Street, 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Universitatii Street, 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ivona Maria Tudorancea
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Universitatii Street, 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Universitatii Street, 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Andreea Nicoleta Boca
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | | | - Vlad Porumb
- Department Surgery, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Universitatii Street, 16, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Walther Bild
- Department of Physiology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Center of Biomedical Research of the Romanian Academy, 700506 Iasi, Romania
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Polini B, Ricardi C, Bertolini A, Carnicelli V, Rutigliano G, Saponaro F, Zucchi R, Chiellini G. T1AM/TAAR1 System Reduces Inflammatory Response and β-Amyloid Toxicity in Human Microglial HMC3 Cell Line. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11569. [PMID: 37511328 PMCID: PMC10380917 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411569] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglial dysfunction is one of the hallmarks and leading causes of common neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs), including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). All these pathologies are characterized by aberrant aggregation of disease-causing proteins in the brain, which can directly activate microglia, trigger microglia-mediated neuroinflammation, and increase oxidative stress. Inhibition of glial activation may represent a therapeutic target to alleviate neurodegeneration. Recently, 3-iodothyronamine (T1AM), an endogenous derivative of thyroid hormone (TH) able to interact directly with a specific GPCR known as trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1), gained interest for its ability to promote neuroprotection in several models. Nevertheless, T1AM's effects on microglial disfunction remain still elusive. In the present work we investigated whether T1AM could inhibit the inflammatory response of human HMC3 microglial cells to LPS/TNFα or β-amyloid peptide 25-35 (Aβ25-35) stimuli. The results of ELISA and qPCR assays revealed that T1AM was able to reduce microglia-mediated inflammatory response by inhibiting the release of proinflammatory factors, including IL-6, TNFα, NF-kB, MCP1, and MIP1, while promoting the release of anti-inflammatory mediators, such as IL-10. Notably, T1AM anti-inflammatory action in HMC3 cells turned out to be a TAAR1-mediated response, further increasing the relevance of the T1AM/TAAR1 system in the management of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Polini
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (C.R.); (A.B.); (V.C.); (F.S.); (R.Z.)
| | - Caterina Ricardi
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (C.R.); (A.B.); (V.C.); (F.S.); (R.Z.)
| | - Andrea Bertolini
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (C.R.); (A.B.); (V.C.); (F.S.); (R.Z.)
| | - Vittoria Carnicelli
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (C.R.); (A.B.); (V.C.); (F.S.); (R.Z.)
| | - Grazia Rutigliano
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK;
| | - Federica Saponaro
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (C.R.); (A.B.); (V.C.); (F.S.); (R.Z.)
| | - Riccardo Zucchi
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (C.R.); (A.B.); (V.C.); (F.S.); (R.Z.)
| | - Grazia Chiellini
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy; (C.R.); (A.B.); (V.C.); (F.S.); (R.Z.)
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Yuan J, Yang B, Hou G, Xie XQ, Feng Z. Targeting the endocannabinoid system: Structural determinants and molecular mechanism of allosteric modulation. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103615. [PMID: 37172889 PMCID: PMC10330941 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103615] [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: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Although drugs targeting the orthosteric binding site of cannabinoid receptors (CBRs) have several therapeutic effects on human physiological and pathological conditions, they can also cause serious adverse effects. Only a few orthosteric ligands have successfully passed clinical trials. Recently, allosteric modulation has become a novel option for drug discovery, with fewer adverse effects and the potential to avoid drug overdose. In this review, we highlight novel findings related to the drug discovery of allosteric modulators (AMs) targeting CBRs. We summarize newly synthesized AMs and the reported/predicted allosteric binding sites. We also discuss the structural determinants of the AMs binding as well as the molecular mechanism of CBR allostery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Yuan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Guanyu Hou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Xiang-Qun Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Zhiwei Feng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, and Pharmacometrics & System Pharmacology PharmacoAnalytics, School of Pharmacy; National Center of Excellence for Computational Drug Abuse Research; Drug Discovery Institute; Departments of Computational Biology and Structural Biology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States.
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8
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Sharma R, Singh S, Whiting ZM, Molitor M, Vernall AJ, Grimsey NL. Novel Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) Low Lipophilicity Agonists Produce Distinct cAMP and Arrestin Signalling Kinetics without Bias. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076406. [PMID: 37047385 PMCID: PMC10094510 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) is a promising target for treating inflammatory diseases. We designed derivatives of 3-carbamoyl-2-pyridone and 1,8-naphthyridin-2(1H)-one-3-carboxamide CB2-selective agonists with reduced lipophilicity. The new compounds were measured for their affinity (radioligand binding) and ability to elicit cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signalling and β-arrestin-2 translocation with temporal resolution (BRET-based biosensors). For the 3-carbamoyl-2-pyridone derivatives, we found that modifying the previously reported compound UOSS77 (also known as S-777469) by appending a PEG2-alcohol via a 3-carbomylcyclohexyl carboxamide (UOSS75) lowered lipophilicity, and preserved binding affinity and signalling profile. The 1,8-naphthyridin-2(1H)-one-3-carboxamide UOMM18, containing a cis configuration at the 3-carboxamide cyclohexyl and with an alcohol on the 4-position of the cyclohexyl, had lower lipophilicity but similar CB2 affinity and biological activity to previously reported compounds of this class. Relative to CP55,940, the new compounds acted as partial agonists and did not exhibit signalling bias. Interestingly, while all compounds shared similar temporal trajectories for maximal efficacy, differing temporal trajectories for potency were observed. Consequently, when applied at sub-maximal concentrations, CP55,940 tended to elicit sustained (cAMP) or increasing (arrestin) responses, whereas responses to the new compounds tended to be transient (cAMP) or sustained (arrestin). In future studies, the compounds characterised here may be useful in elucidating the consequences of differential temporal signalling profiles on CB2-mediated physiological responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raahul Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand; (R.S.)
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Sameek Singh
- Department of Chemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand (M.M.); (A.J.V.)
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Science, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Zak M. Whiting
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand; (R.S.)
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Maximilian Molitor
- Department of Chemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand (M.M.); (A.J.V.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andrea J. Vernall
- Department of Chemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand (M.M.); (A.J.V.)
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Natasha L. Grimsey
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand; (R.S.)
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
- Correspondence:
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9
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Nan J, Liu J, Lin G, Zhang S, Xia A, Zhou P, Zhou Y, Zhang J, Zhao J, Zhang S, Huang C, Wang Y, Hu Q, Chen J, Xiang M, Yang X, Yang S. Discovery of 4-(1,2,4-Oxadiazol-5-yl)azepan-2-one Derivatives as a New Class of Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptor Agonists for the Treatment of Inflammatory Pain. J Med Chem 2023; 66:3460-3483. [PMID: 36821347 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Selectively targeting the cannabinoid receptor CB2 is an attractive therapeutic strategy for the treatment of inflammatory pain without psychiatric side effects mediated by the cannabinoid receptor CB1. Herein, we report the discovery of 4-(1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-yl)azepan-2-one derivatives as a new class of CB2 agonists. Systematic structure-activity relationship investigations resulted in the identification of the most potent compound 25r. This compound displayed high selectivity for CB2 against CB1 (CB2 EC50 = 21.0 nM, Emax = 87%, CB1 EC50 > 30 μM, ratio CB1/CB2 > 1428) with favorable pharmacokinetic properties. Especially, 25r demonstrated significant efficacy in the analgesic model of rodent inflammatory pain. All the results suggest that compound 25r could serve as a lead compound for treating inflammatory pain and deserves further in-depth studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinshan Nan
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Jingming Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Guifeng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Shanshan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Anjie Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Pei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery System of Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yangli Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Jiahao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Jinlong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Shiyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery System of Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Chong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yifei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Qian Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Junxian Chen
- Key Laboratory of General Chemistry of the National Ethnic Affairs Commission, School of Chemistry and Environment, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Mingli Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Xin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Shengyong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
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New Insights into Bitopic Orthosteric/Allosteric Ligands of Cannabinoid Receptor Type 2. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032135. [PMID: 36768458 PMCID: PMC9917213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032135] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Very recently, we have developed a new generation of ligands targeting the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R), namely JR compounds, which combine the pharmacophoric portion of the CB2R positive allosteric modulator (PAM), EC21a, with that of the CB2R selective orthosteric agonist LV62, both synthesized in our laboratories. The functional examination enabled us to identify JR14a, JR22a, and JR64a as the most promising compounds of the series. In the current study, we focused on the assessment of the bitopic (dualsteric) nature of these three compounds. Experiments in cAMP assays highlighted that only JR22a behaves as a CB2R bitopic (dualsteric) ligand. In parallel, computational studies helped us to clarify the binding mode of these three compounds at CB2R, confirming the bitopic (dualsteric) nature of JR22a. Finally, the potential of JR22a to prevent neuroinflammation was investigated on a human microglial cell inflammatory model.
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Mechanisms Underlining Inflammatory Pain Sensitivity in Mice Selected for High and Low Stress-Induced Analgesia-The Role of Endocannabinoids and Microglia. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911686. [PMID: 36232988 PMCID: PMC9570076 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work we strived to determine whether endocannabinoid system activity could account for the differences in acute inflammatory pain sensitivity in mouse lines selected for high (HA) and low (LA) swim-stress-induced analgesia (SSIA). Mice received intraplantar injections of 5% formalin and the intensity of nocifensive behaviours was scored. To assess the contribution of the endocannabinoid system, mice were intraperitoneally (i.p.) injected with rimonabant (0.3–3 mg/kg) prior to formalin. Minocycline (45 and 100 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered to investigate microglial activation. The possible involvement of the endogenous opioid system was investigated with naloxone (1 mg/kg, i.p.). Cannabinoid receptor types 1 and 2 (Cnr1, Cnr2) and opioid receptor subtype (Oprm1, Oprd1, Oprk1) mRNA levels were quantified by qPCR in the structures of the central nociceptive circuit. Levels of anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) were measured by liquid chromatography coupled with the mass spectrometry method (LC-MS/MS). In the interphase, higher pain thresholds in the HA mice correlated with increased spinal anandamide and 2-AG release and higher Cnr1 transcription. Downregulation of Oprd1 and Oprm1 mRNA was noted in HA and LA mice, respectively, however no differences in naloxone sensitivity were observed in either line. As opposed to the LA mice, inflammatory pain sensitivity in the HA mice in the tonic phase was attributed to enhanced microglial activation, as evidenced by enhanced Aif1 and Il-1β mRNA levels. To conclude, Cnr1 inhibitory signaling is one mechanism responsible for decreased pain sensitivity in HA mice in the interphase, while increased microglial activation corresponds to decreased pain thresholds in the tonic inflammatory phase.
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Ferrisi R, Gado F, Polini B, Ricardi C, Mohamed KA, Stevenson LA, Ortore G, Rapposelli S, Saccomanni G, Pertwee RG, Laprairie RB, Manera C, Chiellini G. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel orthosteric-allosteric ligands of the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB 2R). Front Chem 2022; 10:984069. [PMID: 36238097 PMCID: PMC9551276 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.984069] [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: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) assume multiple active states. Orthosteric ligands and/or allosteric modulators can preferentially stabilize specific conformations, giving rise to pathway-biased signaling. One of the most promising strategies to expand the repertoire of signaling-selective GPCR activators consists of dualsteric agents, which are hybrid compounds consisting of orthosteric and allosteric pharmacophoric units. This approach proved to be very promising showing several advantages over monovalent targeting strategies, including an increased affinity or selectivity, a bias in signaling pathway activation, reduced off-target activity and therapeutic resistance. Our study focused on the cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R), considered a clinically promising target for the control of brain damage in neurodegenerative disorders. Indeed, CB2R was found highly expressed in microglial cells, astrocytes, and even in some neuron subpopulations. Here, we describe the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of two new classes of potential dualsteric (bitopic) CB2R ligands. The new compounds were obtained by connecting, through different linkers, the pharmacophoric portion of the CB2R positive allosteric modulator (PAM), EC21a, with that of the CB2R selective orthosteric agonist LV62, both developed in our laboratories. A preliminary screening enabled us to identify compound JR64a as the most promising of the series. Indeed, functional examination highlighted a signaling ‘bias’ in favor of G protein activation over βarrestin2 recruitment, combined with high affinity for CB2R and the ability to efficiently prevent inflammation in human microglial cells (HMC3) exposed to LPS/TNFα stimulation, thus demonstrating great promise for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Gado
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milano Statale, Milan, Italy,*Correspondence: Francesca Gado, ; Clementina Manera, ; Grazia Chiellini,
| | | | | | - Kawthar A. Mohamed
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Lesley A. Stevenson
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Roger G. Pertwee
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Robert B. Laprairie
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada,Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Clementina Manera
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy,CISUP, Centre for Instrumentation Sharing Pisa University, Pisa, Italy,*Correspondence: Francesca Gado, ; Clementina Manera, ; Grazia Chiellini,
| | - Grazia Chiellini
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy,CISUP, Centre for Instrumentation Sharing Pisa University, Pisa, Italy,*Correspondence: Francesca Gado, ; Clementina Manera, ; Grazia Chiellini,
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Ferranti AS, Foster DJ. Cannabinoid type-2 receptors: An emerging target for regulating schizophrenia-relevant brain circuits. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:925792. [PMID: 36033626 PMCID: PMC9403189 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.925792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the cannabinoid type-2 receptor (CB2) is highly expressed in the immune system, emerging evidence points to CB2 playing a key role in regulating neuronal function in the central nervous system. Recent anatomical studies, combined with electrophysiological studies, indicate that CB2 receptors are expressed in specific dopaminergic and glutamatergic brain circuits that are hyperactive in schizophrenia patients. The ability of CB2 receptors to inhibit dopaminergic and hippocampal circuits, combined with the anti-inflammatory effects of CB2 receptor activation, make this receptor an intriguing target for treating schizophrenia, a disease where novel interventions that move beyond dopamine receptor antagonists are desperately needed. The development of new CB2-related pharmacological and genetic tools, including the first small molecule positive allosteric modulator of CB2 receptors, has greatly advanced our understanding of this receptor. While more work is needed to further elucidate the translational value of selectively targeting CB2 receptors with respect to schizophrenia, the studies discussed below could suggest that CB2 receptors are anatomically located in schizophrenia-relevant circuits, where the physiological consequence of CB2 receptor activation could correct circuit-based deficits commonly associated with positive and cognitive deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony S. Ferranti
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
- Warren Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Daniel J. Foster
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, United States
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