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Geng Y, Liu C, Xu N, Suen MC, Miao H, Xie Y, Zhang B, Chen X, Song Y, Wang Z, Cai Q, Zhu G. Crystal structure of a tetrameric RNA G-quadruplex formed by hexanucleotide repeat expansions of C9orf72 in ALS/FTD. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:7961-7970. [PMID: 38860430 PMCID: PMC11260476 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The abnormal GGGGCC hexanucleotide repeat expansions (HREs) in C9orf72 cause the fatal neurodegenerative diseases including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia. The transcribed RNA HREs, short for r(G4C2)n, can form toxic RNA foci which sequestrate RNA binding proteins and impair RNA processing, ultimately leading to neurodegeneration. Here, we determined the crystal structure of r(G4C2)2, which folds into a parallel tetrameric G-quadruplex composed of two four-layer dimeric G-quadruplex via 5'-to-5' stacking in coordination with a K+ ion. Notably, the two C bases locate at 3'- end stack on the outer G-tetrad with the assistance of two additional K+ ions. The high-resolution structure reported here lays a foundation in understanding the mechanism of neurological toxicity of RNA HREs. Furthermore, the atomic details provide a structural basis for the development of potential therapeutic agents against the fatal neurodegenerative diseases ALS/FTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Geng
- Clinical Research Institute of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Fujian Key Laboratory of Brain Tumors Diagnosis and Precision Treatment, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Brain Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Neurosurgery and Department of Neuroscience, Fujian Key Laboratory of Brain Tumors Diagnosis and Precision Treatment, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Brain Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Changdong Liu
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Hi-Tech Park, Nanshan, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Naining Xu
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Hi-Tech Park, Nanshan, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Monica Ching Suen
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Hi-Tech Park, Nanshan, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Haitao Miao
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yuanyuan Xie
- Department of Neurosurgery and Department of Neuroscience, Fujian Key Laboratory of Brain Tumors Diagnosis and Precision Treatment, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Brain Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Bingchang Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Department of Neuroscience, Fujian Key Laboratory of Brain Tumors Diagnosis and Precision Treatment, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Brain Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Xueqin Chen
- Clinical Research Institute of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Fujian Key Laboratory of Brain Tumors Diagnosis and Precision Treatment, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Brain Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yuanjian Song
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease Bioinformation, Department of Genetics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhanxiang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Department of Neuroscience, Fujian Key Laboratory of Brain Tumors Diagnosis and Precision Treatment, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Brain Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Qixu Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Guang Zhu
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Hi-Tech Park, Nanshan, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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Nie QW, Zhang X, Hu MH. Discovery of a mitochondrial G-quadruplex targeted fluorescent ligand via a slight variation on the near-infrared heptamethine cyanine scaffold. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 269:132230. [PMID: 38729485 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132230] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
The heptamethine cyanine dyes are one kind of promising near-infrared (NIR) compounds, holding great potential in both diagnostic and therapeutic regions. Remolding such structures to realize detection of unclarified biotargets or interfering with them seems to be important in the field of chemical biology. In this study, we developed a fluorescent ligand (IR1) targeting mitochondrial G-quadruplexes (mitoG4s) by a slight variation on the typical NIR scaffold (IR780). This ligand could be applied for sensing mitoG4s by fluorescence, making it different from the unmodified dye whose fluorescence was quenched by mitoG4s. Then, IR1 was demonstrated to accumulate in the mitochondria through a mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) dependent manner. Some of IR1 then bound to mitoG4s, causing mtDNA loss and mitochondrial dysfunction, which thereby triggered PANoptosis, including apoptosis, autophagy and pyroptosis. To the best of our knowledge, IR1 was the first NIR fluorescent ligand with emission centered at above 800 nm for mitoG4s, and the first example causing PANoptosis among the reported mitoG4-targeted ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian-Wen Nie
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Ming-Hao Hu
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518060, China.
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3
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Shelkovnikova TA, Hautbergue GM. RNP granules in ALS and neurodegeneration: From multifunctional membraneless organelles to therapeutic opportunities. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:455-479. [PMID: 38802180 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and related neurodegenerative diseases are characterised by dysfunction of a host of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and a severely disrupted RNA metabolism. Recently, RBP-harbouring phase-separated complexes, ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules, have come into the limelight as "crucibles" of neuronal pathology in ALS. RNP granules are indispensable for the multitude of regulatory processes underlying cellular RNA metabolism and serve as critical organisers of cellular biochemistry. Neurons, highly specialised cells, heavily rely on RNP granules for efficient trafficking, signalling and stress responses. Multiple RNP granule components, primarily RBPs such as TDP-43 and FUS, are affected by ALS mutations. However, even in the absence of mutations, RBP proteinopathies represent pathophysiological hallmarks of ALS. Given the high local concentrations of RBPs and RNAs, their weakened or enhanced interactions within RNP granules disrupt their homeostasis. Thus, the physiological process of phase separation and RNP granule formation, vital for maintaining the high-functioning state of neuronal cells, becomes their Achilles heel. Here, we will review the recent literature on the causes and consequences of abnormal RNP granule functioning in ALS and related disorders. In particular, we will summarise the evidence for the network-level dysfunction of RNP granules in these conditions and discuss considerations for therapeutic interventions to target RBPs, RNP granules and their network as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatyana A Shelkovnikova
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
| | - Guillaume M Hautbergue
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Healthy Lifespan Institute (HELSI), University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
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4
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Zhang X, Hu MH. Development of a fluorescent ligand that can illuminate nuclear G-quadruplexes and modulate oncogene expression. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 104:117713. [PMID: 38574409 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117713] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we developed a promising dual-function fluorescent ligand termed KS-1 by a slight structural modification on a reported carbazole-based scaffold. KS-1 was then found to mainly bind and illuminate the nuclear DNA G-quadruplexes (G4s) in a sandwich-like interacting mode, and also effectively modulate the oncogene expression through a G4-mediated manner. Furthermore, KS-1 was proved to inhibit cancer cell growth either in 2D monolayer cells or 3D multicellular tumor spheroids. To be noted, this ligand could overcome the shortcomings of other reported dual-function ligands that appeared to accumulate in the lysosomes or mitochondria, and may be used as a theranostic agent in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zhang
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Ming-Hao Hu
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518060, China.
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5
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Wang XD, Liu YS, Chen MD, Hu MH. Discovery of a triphenylamine-based ligand that targets mitochondrial DNA G-quadruplexes and activates the cGAS-STING immunomodulatory pathway. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 269:116361. [PMID: 38547736 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Stabilization of G-quadruplex (G4) structures in mitochondria leads to the damage of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), making mtDNA G4s a promising target in the field of cancer therapy in recent years. Damaged mtDNA released into the cytosol can stimulate cytosolic DNA-sensing pathways, and cGAS-STING pathway is a typical one with potent immunostimulatory effects. A few small molecule ligands of mtDNA G4s are identified with antitumor efficacy, but little is known about their results and mechanisms on immunomodulation. In this study, we engineered a series of triphenylamine-based analogues targeting mtDNA G4s, and A6 was determined as the most promising compound. Cellular studies indicated that A6 caused severe mtDNA damage. Then, damaged mtDNA stimulated cGAS-STING pathway, resulting in the following cytokine production of tumor cells and the maturation of DCs. In vivo experiments certified that A6 exerted suppressive influences on tumor growth and metastasis in 4T1 cell-bearing mice by the regulation of TME, including the remodeling of macrophages and the activation of T cells. To our knowledge, it is the first time to report a ligand targeting mtDNA G4s to activate the cGAS-STING immunomodulatory pathway, providing a novel strategy for the future development of mtDNA G4-based antitumor agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dong Wang
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Yong-Si Liu
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Meng-Die Chen
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Ming-Hao Hu
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
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6
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Wang Z, Zhou J, Lin L, Hu MH. Discovery of a far-red carbazole-benzoindolium fluorescent ligand that selectively targets mitochondrial DNA and suppresses breast cancer growth. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 264:116046. [PMID: 38103539 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116046] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
G-quadruplex (G4) formation was considered to be more prevalent in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) of cancer cells compared with normal cells. Stabilization of these G4s may induce mtDNA instability and cause mitochondrial dysfunction and subsequent cell death, which may be treated as a new strategy for cancer treatment. However, few ligands were developed to target mtG4s, leaving a huge room to improve. In this study, we designed and synthesized a series of carbazole-based ligands, among which, BKN-1 was identified as the most promising mitochondrial targeting fluorescent ligand with far-red emission. Then, we demonstrated that BKN-1 may robustly interact with mtG4s via a variety of biophysical, biological experiments. Subsequently, we proved that BKN-1 may cause mtDNA loss, disrupt mitochondrial integrity, decrease ATP level and trigger unbalanced ROS, thereby leading to apoptosis and autophagy. Finally, we verified that BKN-1 had good anti-tumor activity in both cellular and in vivo models. Altogether, this study provided a dual-function ligand that may not only track the formation of mtG4s but also induce mitochondrial dysfunction, which may be developed into an applicable chemical tool for investigating the structure and function of mtG4s, and moreover, an effective therapeutic agent for cancer interference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhigang Wang
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Jianghong Zhou
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Long Lin
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Ming-Hao Hu
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
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7
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Ye W, Lui ST, Zhao Q, Wong YM, Cheng A, Sung HHY, Williams ID, Qian PY, Huang P. Novel marine natural products as effective TRPV1 channel blockers. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127136. [PMID: 37776932 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127136] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pain management poses a formidable challenge to healthcare, exacerbated by current analgesic options' limitations and adverse effects. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), a non-selective cation channel, has emerged as a promising target for novel analgesics. However, safety and tolerability concerns have constrained the development of TRPV1 modulators. In this study, we explored marine-derived natural products as a source of potential TRPV1 modulators using high-throughput dye-uptake assays. We identified chrexanthomycins, a family of hexacyclic xanthones, exhibited potent TRPV1 inhibitory effects, with compounds cC and cF demonstrating the most significant activity. High-resolution patch-clamp assays confirmed the direct action of these compounds on the TRPV1 channel. Furthermore, in vivo assays revealed that cC and cF effectively suppressed capsaicin-induced pain sensation in mice, comparable to the known TRPV1 inhibitor, capsazepine. Structural-activity relationship analysis highlighted the importance of specific functional groups in modulating TRPV1 activity. Our findings underscore the therapeutic potential of chrexanthomycins and pave the way for further investigations into marine-derived TRPV1 modulators for pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenkang Ye
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; Department of Ocean Science and Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China; SZU-HKUST Joint Ph.D. Program in Marine Environmental Science, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Sin Tung Lui
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qirui Zhao
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuk Ming Wong
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Aifang Cheng
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; Department of Ocean Science and Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Herman H-Y Sung
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ian D Williams
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Pei-Yuan Qian
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; Department of Ocean Science and Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Pingbo Huang
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China; Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
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8
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Raguseo F, Wang Y, Li J, Petrić Howe M, Balendra R, Huyghebaert A, Vadukul DM, Tanase DA, Maher TE, Malouf L, Rubio-Sánchez R, Aprile FA, Elani Y, Patani R, Di Michele L, Di Antonio M. The ALS/FTD-related C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat expansion forms RNA condensates through multimolecular G-quadruplexes. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8272. [PMID: 38092738 PMCID: PMC10719400 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43872-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are neurodegenerative diseases that exist on a clinico-pathogenetic spectrum, designated ALS/FTD. The most common genetic cause of ALS/FTD is expansion of the intronic hexanucleotide repeat (GGGGCC)n in C9orf72. Here, we investigate the formation of nucleic acid secondary structures in these expansion repeats, and their role in generating condensates characteristic of ALS/FTD. We observe significant aggregation of the hexanucleotide sequence (GGGGCC)n, which we associate to the formation of multimolecular G-quadruplexes (mG4s) by using a range of biophysical techniques. Exposing the condensates to G4-unfolding conditions leads to prompt disassembly, highlighting the key role of mG4-formation in the condensation process. We further validate the biological relevance of our findings by detecting an increased prevalence of G4-structures in C9orf72 mutant human motor neurons when compared to healthy motor neurons by staining with a G4-selective fluorescent probe, revealing signal in putative condensates. Our findings strongly suggest that RNA G-rich repetitive sequences can form protein-free condensates sustained by multimolecular G-quadruplexes, highlighting their potential relevance as therapeutic targets for C9orf72 mutation-related ALS/FTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Raguseo
- Imperial College London, Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
- University of Cambridge, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Philippa Fawcett Drive, Cambridge, CB3 0AS, UK
- Imperial College London, Institute of Chemical Biology, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Yiran Wang
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Jessica Li
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Marija Petrić Howe
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Rubika Balendra
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Anouk Huyghebaert
- Imperial College London, Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
- Imperial College London, Institute of Chemical Biology, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Devkee M Vadukul
- Imperial College London, Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Diana A Tanase
- Imperial College London, Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
- University of Cambridge, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Philippa Fawcett Drive, Cambridge, CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Thomas E Maher
- Imperial College London, Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
- Imperial College London, Institute of Chemical Biology, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Layla Malouf
- Imperial College London, Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
- University of Cambridge, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Philippa Fawcett Drive, Cambridge, CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Roger Rubio-Sánchez
- University of Cambridge, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Philippa Fawcett Drive, Cambridge, CB3 0AS, UK
| | - Francesco A Aprile
- Imperial College London, Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
- Imperial College London, Institute of Chemical Biology, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Yuval Elani
- Imperial College London, Department of Chemical Engineering, South Kensington, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Rickie Patani
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK.
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, WC1N 3BG, UK.
| | - Lorenzo Di Michele
- Imperial College London, Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK.
- University of Cambridge, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Philippa Fawcett Drive, Cambridge, CB3 0AS, UK.
| | - Marco Di Antonio
- Imperial College London, Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK.
- Imperial College London, Institute of Chemical Biology, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, 82 Wood Lane, London, W12 0BZ, UK.
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK.
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Abdi MH, Zamiri B, Pazuki G, Sardari S, Pearson CE. Pathogenic CANVAS-causing but not nonpathogenic RFC1 DNA/RNA repeat motifs form quadruplex or triplex structures. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105202. [PMID: 37660923 PMCID: PMC10563062 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Biallelic expansions of various tandem repeat sequence motifs are possible in RFC1 (replication factor C subunit 1), encoding the DNA replication/repair protein RFC1, yet only certain repeat motifs cause cerebellar ataxia, neuropathy, and vestibular areflexia syndrome (CANVAS). CANVAS presents enigmatic puzzles: The pathogenic path for CANVAS neither is known nor is it understood why some, but not all expanded, motifs are pathogenic. The most common pathogenic repeat is (AAGGG)n•(CCCTT)n, whereas (AAAAG)n•(CTTTT)n is the most common nonpathogenic motif. While both intronic motifs can be expanded and transcribed, only r(AAGGG)n is retained in the mutant RFC1 transcript. We show that only the pathogenic forms unusual nucleic acid structures. Specifically, DNA and RNA of the pathogenic d(AAGGG)4 and r(AAGGG)4 form G-quadruplexes in potassium solution. Nonpathogenic repeats did not form G-quadruplexes. Triple-stranded structures are formed by the pathogenic motifs but not by the nonpathogenic motifs. G- and C-richness of the pathogenic strands favor formation of G•G•G•G-tetrads and protonated C+-G Hoogsteen base pairings, involved in quadruplex and triplex structures, respectively, stabilized by increased hydrogen bonds and pi-stacking interactions relative to A-T Hoogsteen pairs that could form by the nonpathogenic motif. The ligand, TMPyP4, binds the pathogenic quadruplexes. Formation of quadruplexes and triplexes by pathogenic repeats supports toxic-DNA and toxic-RNA modes of pathogenesis at the RFC1 gene and the RFC1 transcript. Our findings with short repeats provide insights into the disease specificity of pathogenic repeat motif sequences and reveal nucleic acid structural features that may be pathogenically involved and targeted therapeutically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Abdi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Tehran, Iran
| | - Bita Zamiri
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Gholamreza Pazuki
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Tehran, Iran
| | - Soroush Sardari
- Drug Design and Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Medical Biotechnology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Christopher E Pearson
- Program of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Program of Genetics & Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, The Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Wang XD, Wang JX, Hu MH. Novel phenanthrene imidazoles as telomeric G-quadruplex ligands trigger potent immunogenic cell death in triple-negative breast cancer. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 249:126068. [PMID: 37524278 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a typical type of regulated cell demise, and ICD inducers stimulate the immune responses against dead-cell antigens and exert specific antitumor effects. G-quadruplex (G4) binders targeting the telomeres lead to DNA damage response (DDR) and the potential of harnessing the immune system for cancer therapy. However, the immunostimulatory effects of G4 ligands in cancer cells are still seldomly determined. In this study, we rationally designed and synthesized a series of novel phenanthrene imidazoles targeting telomeric G4. Among them, PI-2 was identified as the most promising ligand with high cytotoxicity, cellular uptake efficiency and G4-interacting ability. Cellular studies indicated that PI-2 inhibited the proliferation and migration of both human and mouse triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. PI-2 triggered the occurrence of DDR and ICD, where the related pathways were further decided. In vivo experiments displayed that PI-2-treated dying cells could be an effective vaccination to reduce tumor burden and promote the infiltration of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells to the tumor microenvironment (TME). To our knowledge, it is the first time to report a DDR-targeted G4 ligand with ICD-inducing ability in immunocompetent animals, which may provide new insights for the development of promising G4-based immunochemotherapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dong Wang
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Jia-Xin Wang
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Ming-Hao Hu
- Nation-Regional Engineering Lab for Synthetic Biology of Medicine, International Cancer Center, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518060, China.
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Benasutti H, Maricelli JW, Seto J, Hall J, Halbert C, Wicki J, Heusgen L, Purvis N, Regnier M, Lin DC, Rodgers BD, Chamberlain JS. Efficacy and muscle safety assessment of fukutin-related protein gene therapy. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 30:65-80. [PMID: 37361354 PMCID: PMC10285450 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type R9 (LGMDR9) is a muscle-wasting disease that begins in the hip and shoulder regions of the body. This disease is caused by mutations in fukutin-related protein (FKRP), a glycosyltransferase critical for maintaining muscle cell integrity. Here we investigated potential gene therapies for LGMDR9 containing an FKRP expression construct with untranslated region (UTR) modifications. Initial studies treated an aged dystrophic mouse model (FKRPP448L) with adeno-associated virus vector serotype 6 (AAV6). Grip strength improved in a dose- and time-dependent manner, injected mice exhibited fewer central nuclei and serum creatine kinase levels were 3- and 5-fold lower compared to those in non-injected FKRPP448L mice. Treatment also partially stabilized the respiratory pattern during exercise and improved treadmill running, partially protecting muscle from exercise-induced damage. Western blotting of C2C12 myotubes using a novel rabbit antibody confirmed heightened translation with the UTR modifications. We further explored the question of FKRP toxicity in wild-type mice using high doses of two additional muscle-tropic capsids: AAV9 and AAVMYO1. No toxic effects were detected with either therapeutic agent. These data further support the feasibility of gene therapy to treat LGMDR9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halli Benasutti
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Joseph W. Maricelli
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
- Washington Center for Muscle Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Jane Seto
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- Sen. Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Specialized Research Center, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - John Hall
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Christine Halbert
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- Sen. Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Specialized Research Center, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jacqueline Wicki
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lydia Heusgen
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Nicholas Purvis
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michael Regnier
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - David C. Lin
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience and the Voiland School of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Buel D. Rodgers
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
- Washington Center for Muscle Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Jeffrey S. Chamberlain
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- Sen. Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Specialized Research Center, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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Zhang Y, Huang J, Yu K, Cui X. G-Quadruplexes Formation by the C9orf72 Nucleotide Repeat Expansion d(GGGGCC) n and Conformation Regulation by Fangchinoline. Molecules 2023; 28:4671. [PMID: 37375224 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28124671] [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: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The G-quadruplex (GQ)-forming hexanucleotide repeat expansion (HRE) in the C9orf72 (C9) gene has been found to be the most common cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) (collectively, C9ALS/FTD), implying the great significance of modulating C9-HRE GQ structures in C9ALS/FTD therapeutic treatment strategies. In this study, we investigated the GQ structures formed by varied lengths of C9-HRE DNA sequences d(GGGGCC)4 (C9-24mer) and d(GGGGCC)8 (C9-48mer), and found that the C9-24mer forms anti-parallel GQ (AP-GQ) in the presence of potassium ions, while the long C9-48mer bearing eight guanine tracts forms unstacked tandem GQ consisting of two C9-24mer unimolecular AP-GQs. Moreover, the natural small molecule Fangchinoline was screened out in order to be able to stabilize and alter the C9-HRE DNA to parallel GQ topology. Further study of the interaction of Fangchinoline with the C9-HRE RNA GQ unit r(GGGGCC)4 (C9-RNA) revealed that it can also recognize and improve the thermal stability of C9-HRE RNA GQ. Finally, use of AutoDock simulation results indicated that Fangchinoline binds to the groove regions of the parallel C9-HRE GQs. These findings pave the way for further studies of GQ structures formed by pathologically related long C9-HRE sequences, and also provide a natural small-molecule ligand that modulates the structure and stability of C9-HRE GQ, both in DNA and RNA levels. Altogether, this work may contribute to therapeutic approaches of C9ALS/FTD which take the upstream C9-HRE DNA region, as well as the toxic C9-HRE RNA, as targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Junliu Huang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Kainan Yu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaojie Cui
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing 100081, China
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Cheng A, Zhang Y, Sun J, Huang D, Sulaiman JE, Huang X, Wu L, Ye W, Wu C, Lam H, Shi Y, Qian PY. Pterosin sesquiterpenoids from Pteris laeta Wall. ex Ettingsh. protect cells from glutamate excitotoxicity by modulating mitochondrial signals. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 308:116308. [PMID: 36822346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The genus Pteris (Pteridaceae) has been used as a traditional herb for a long time. In particular, Pteris laeta Wall. ex Ettingsh. has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat nervous system diseases and some pterosin sesquiterpenes from Pteris show neuroprotective activity, but their underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Therefore, to investigate the neuroprotective activity and working mechanism of pterosin sesquiterpenes from P. laeta Wall. ex Ettingsh. will provide a better understanding and guidance in using P. laeta Wall. ex Ettingsh. as a traditional Chinese medicine. AIM OF THE STUDY We aim to develop effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases from pterosin sesquiterpenes by evaluating their neuroprotective activity and investigating their working mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Primary screening on the glutamate-induced excitotoxicity cell model was assessed by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay. Fluorescent-activated cell sorting (FACS) was used to analyze the activation level of glutamate receptors and mitochondria membrane potential after treatment. Transcriptomics and proteomics analysis was performed to identify possible targets of pterosin B. The key pathways were enriched by the Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis through the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID). The core targets were visualized by a protein-protein interaction network using STRING. The mRNA and protein expressions were evaluated using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR) and western blot, respectively. Immunocytochemistry was performed to monitor mitochondrial and apoptotic proteins. Cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured by ROS assay, and Ca2+ was stained with Fluo-4 AM to quantify intracellular Ca2+ levels. RESULTS We found pterosin B from Pteris laeta Wall. ex Ettingsh. showed significant neuroprotective activity against glutamate excitotoxicity, enhancing cell viability from 43.8% to 105% (p-value: <0.0001). We demonstrated that pterosin B worked on the downstream signaling pathways of glutamate excitotoxicity rather than directly blocking the activation of glutamate receptors. Pterosin B restored mitochondria membrane potentials, alleviated intracellular calcium overload from 107.4% to 95.47% (p-value: 0.0006), eliminated cellular ROS by 36.55% (p-value: 0.0143), and partially secured cells from LPS-induced inflammation by increasing cell survival from 46.75% to 58.5% (p-value: 0.0114). Notably, pterosin B enhanced the expression of nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) by 2.86-fold (p-value: 0.0006) and 4.24-fold (p-value: 0.0012), and down-regulated Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1) expression by 2.5-fold (p-value: 0.0107), indicating that it possibly promotes mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy to maintain mitochondria quality control and homeostasis, and ultimately inhibits apoptotic cell death. CONCLUSIONS Our work revealed that pterosin B protected cells from glutamate excitotoxicity by targeting the downstream mitochondrial signals, making it a valuable candidate for developing potential therapeutic agents in treating neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aifang Cheng
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, 511458, China; Department of Ocean Science and Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China; Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases (TMBJ), School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Jin Sun
- Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Duli Huang
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, 511458, China; Department of Ocean Science and Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Jordy Evan Sulaiman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, 511458, China; Department of Ocean Science and Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Long Wu
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Wenkang Ye
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, 511458, China; Department of Ocean Science and Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, 999077, China; SZU-HKUST Joint Ph.D. Program in Marine Environmental Science, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Chuanhai Wu
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, 511458, China; Department of Ocean Science and Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Henry Lam
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yusheng Shi
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Drug-Research and Development (R&D) of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China; Academy of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China.
| | - Pei-Yuan Qian
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, 511458, China; Department of Ocean Science and Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, 999077, China.
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