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Cheng Y, Jones JP, Yu TT, Olzomer EM, Su J, Katen A, Black DS, Hart-Smith G, Childress ES, Wilkins MR, Mateos IA, Santos WL, Hoehn KL, Byrne FL, Kumar N. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of glucose metabolism inhibitors as anticancer agents. Bioorg Chem 2024; 151:107665. [PMID: 39094508 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Compared to normal cells, tumour cells exhibit an upregulation of glucose transporters and an increased rate of glycolytic activity. In previous research, we successfully identified a promising hit compound BH10 through a rigorous screening process, which demonstrates a potent capacity for inhibiting cancer cell proliferation by targeting glucose metabolism. In the current study, we identify Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) as a potential protein target of BH10via avidin pull-down assays with biotinylated-BH10. Subsequently, we present a comprehensive analysis of a series of BH10 analogues characterized by the incorporation of a naphthoimidazole scaffold and the introduction of a triazole ring with diverse terminal functional groups. Notably, compound 4d has emerged as the most potent candidate, exhibiting better anti-cancer activities against HEC1A cancer cells with an IC50 of 2.60 μM, an extended biological half-life, and an improved pharmacokinetic profile (compared to BH10) in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Cheng
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - John Patrick Jones
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Tsz Tin Yu
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Ellen M Olzomer
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Jacky Su
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Alice Katen
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - David StC Black
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Gene Hart-Smith
- Australian Proteome Analysis Facility, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Elizabeth S Childress
- Department of Chemistry and VT Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Marc R Wilkins
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Isabel A Mateos
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Webster L Santos
- Department of Chemistry and VT Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Kyle L Hoehn
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Frances L Byrne
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Naresh Kumar
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
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2
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Wang J, Cao Y, Lu Y, Zhu H, Zhang J, Che J, Zhuang R, Shao J. Recent progress and applications of small molecule inhibitors of Keap1-Nrf2 axis for neurodegenerative diseases. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 264:115998. [PMID: 38043492 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)-nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway serves as a crucial regulator against oxidative stress (OS) damage in various cells and organs. It has garnered significant attention as a potential therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases (NDD). Although progress has been achieved in strategies to regulate the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway, the availability of Nrf2 activators applicable to NDD is currently limited. Currently, the FDA has approved the Nrf2 activators dimethyl fumarate (DMF) and Omaveloxolone (Omav) as novel first-line oral drugs for the treatment of patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis and Friedreich's ataxia. A promising alternative approach involves the direct inhibition of Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interactions (PPI), which offers numerous advantages over the use of electrophilic Nrf2 activators, primarily in avoiding off-target effects. This review examines the compelling evidence supporting the beneficial role of Nrf2 in NDD and explores the potential of Keap1 inhibitors and Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitors as therapeutic agents, with the aim to provide further insights into the development of inhibitors targeting this pathway for the treatment of NDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang Province, China; Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, China; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yu Cao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Preparation, Hangzhou Xixi Hospital, Hangzhou, 310023, China
| | - Yang Lu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Huajian Zhu
- School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang Province, China; Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, China; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jiankang Zhang
- School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang Province, China; Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, China; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jinxin Che
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang Province, China.
| | - Rangxiao Zhuang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Preparation, Hangzhou Xixi Hospital, Hangzhou, 310023, China.
| | - Jiaan Shao
- School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang Province, China; Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, China; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang Province, China.
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3
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Preston D, Evans JD. A Lantern-Shaped Pd(II) Cage Constructed from Four Different Low-Symmetry Ligands with Positional and Orientational Control: An Ancillary Pairings Approach. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202314378. [PMID: 37816684 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202314378] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
One of the key challenges of metallo-supramolecular chemistry is to maintain the ease of self-assembly but, at the same time, create structures of increasingly high levels of complexity. In palladium(II) quadruply stranded lantern-shaped cages, this has been achieved through either 1) the formation of heteroleptic (multi-ligand) assemblies, or 2) homoleptic assemblies from low-symmetry ligands. Heteroleptic cages formed from low-symmetry ligands, a hybid of these two approaches, would add an additional rich level of complexity but no examples of these have been reported. Here we use a system of ancillary complementary ligand pairings at the termini of cage ligands to target heteroleptic assemblies: these complementary pairs can only interact (through coordination to a single Pd(II) metal ion) between ligands in a cis position on the cage. Complementarity between each pair (and orthogonality to other pairs) is controlled by denticity (tridentate to monodentate or bidentate to bidentate) and/or hydrogen-bonding capability (AA to DD or AD to DA). This allows positional and orientational control over ligands with different ancillary sites. By using this approach, we have successfully used low-symmetry ligands to synthesise complex heteroleptic cages, including an example with four different low-symmetry ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Preston
- Research School of Chemistry, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia
| | - Jack D Evans
- Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials and Department of Chemistry, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
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4
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Dayalan Naidu S, Angelova PR, Knatko EV, Leonardi C, Novak M, de la Vega L, Ganley IG, Abramov AY, Dinkova-Kostova AT. Nrf2 depletion in the context of loss-of-function Keap1 leads to mitolysosome accumulation. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 208:478-493. [PMID: 37714439 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is the principal determinant of the cellular redox homeostasis, contributing to mitochondrial function, integrity and bioenergetics. The main negative regulator of Nrf2 is Kelch-like ECH associated protein 1 (Keap1), a substrate adaptor for Cul3/Rbx1 ubiquitin ligase, which continuously targets Nrf2 for ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Loss-of-function mutations in Keap1 occur frequently in lung cancer, leading to constitutive Nrf2 activation. We used the human lung cancer cell line A549 and its CRISPR/Cas9-generated homozygous Nrf2-knockout (Nrf2-KO) counterpart to assess the role of Nrf2 on mitochondrial health. To confirm that the observed effects of Nrf2 deficiency are not due to clonal selection or long-term adaptation to the absence of Nrf2, we also depleted Nrf2 by siRNA (siNFE2L2), thus creating populations of Nrf2-knockdown (Nrf2-KD) A549 cells. Nrf2 deficiency decreased mitochondrial respiration, but increased the mitochondrial membrane potential, mass, DNA content, and the number of mitolysosomes. The proportion of ATG7 and ATG3 within their respective LC3B conjugates was increased in Nrf2-deficient cells with mutant Keap1, whereas the formation of new autophagosomes was not affected. Thus, in lung cancer cells with loss-of-function Keap1, Nrf2 facilitates mitolysosome degradation thereby ensuring timely clearance of damaged mitochondria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharadha Dayalan Naidu
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | | | - Elena V Knatko
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Chiara Leonardi
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Miroslav Novak
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Laureano de la Vega
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Ian G Ganley
- MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Andrey Y Abramov
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK.
| | - Albena T Dinkova-Kostova
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences and Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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5
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Xie H, Mao L, Fan G, Wu Z, Wang Y, Hou X, Wang J, Wang H, Liu L, Li S. Design and synthesis of cabotegravir derivatives bearing 1,2,3-triazole and evaluation of anti-liver cancer activity. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1265289. [PMID: 37869757 PMCID: PMC10590056 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1265289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Based on the structure of the anti-HIV drug cabotegravir, we introduced 1,2,3-triazole groups with different substituents to obtain 19 cabotegravir derivatives and tested their activity against HepG2 cells. The proliferation of HepG2 cells was examined following treatment with derivatives. Most of the compounds demonstrated significant inhibitory effects, particularly compounds KJ-5 and KJ-12 with IC50 values of 4.29 ± 0.10 and 4.07 ± 0.09 μM, respectively. Furthermore, both compounds 5 and 12 significantly caused cell apoptosis, G2/M arrest, and DNA damage, and suppressed invasion and migration in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, KJ-5 and KJ-12 could trigger apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway by increasing the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 and activating cleaved caspase-9, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved PARP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaxia Xie
- College of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Longfei Mao
- College of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Gaolu Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, Luoyang Third People’s Hospital, Luoyang, China
| | - Ziyuan Wu
- College of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Yimian Wang
- College of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Xixi Hou
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Jiangang Wang
- College of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Huili Wang
- University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Ling Liu
- College of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Sanqiang Li
- College of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
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6
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Pearson TJ, Shimazumi R, Driscoll JL, Dherange BD, Park DI, Levin MD. Aromatic nitrogen scanning by ipso-selective nitrene internalization. Science 2023; 381:1474-1479. [PMID: 37769067 PMCID: PMC10910605 DOI: 10.1126/science.adj5331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Nitrogen scanning in aryl fragments is a valuable aspect of the drug discovery process, but current strategies require time-intensive, parallel, bottom-up synthesis of each pyridyl isomer because of a lack of direct carbon-to-nitrogen (C-to-N) replacement reactions. We report a site-directable aryl C-to-N replacement reaction allowing unified access to various pyridine isomers through a nitrene-internalization process. In a two-step, one-pot procedure, aryl azides are first photochemically converted to 3H-azepines, which then undergo an oxidatively triggered C2-selective cheletropic carbon extrusion through a spirocyclic azanorcaradiene intermediate to afford the pyridine products. Because the ipso carbon of the aryl nitrene is excised from the molecule, the reaction proceeds regioselectively without perturbation of the remainder of the substrate. Applications are demonstrated in the abbreviated synthesis of a pyridyl derivative of estrone, as well as in a prototypical nitrogen scan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler J. Pearson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Ryoma Shimazumi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Julia L. Driscoll
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Balu D. Dherange
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Dong-Il Park
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Mark D. Levin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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7
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Alzain AA, Mukhtar RM, Abdelmoniem N, Shoaib TH, Osman W, Alsulaimany M, Aljohani AKB, Almadani SA, Alsaadi BH, Althubyani MM, Mohamed SGA, Mohamed GA, Ibrahim SRM. Modulation of NRF2/KEAP1-Mediated Oxidative Stress for Cancer Treatment by Natural Products Using Pharmacophore-Based Screening, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Studies. Molecules 2023; 28:6003. [PMID: 37630254 PMCID: PMC10459127 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28166003] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the development of cancer. Inhibiting the protein-protein interaction (PPI) between Keap1 and Nrf2 offers a promising strategy to activate the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway, which is normally suppressed by the binding of Keap1 to Nrf2. This study aimed to identify natural compounds capable of targeting the kelch domain of KEAP1 using structure-based drug design methods. A pharmacophore model was constructed based on the KEAP1-inhibitor complex, leading to the selection of 6178 compounds that matched the model. Subsequently, docking and MM/GBSA analyses were conducted, resulting in the identification of 10 compounds with superior binding energies compared to the reference compound. From these, three compounds (ZINC000002123788, ZINC000002111341, and ZINC000002125904) were chosen for further investigation. Ligand-residue interaction analysis revealed specific interactions between these compounds and key residues, indicating their stability within the binding site. ADMET analysis confirmed that the selected compounds possessed desirable drug-like properties. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations were performed, demonstrating the stability of the ligand-protein complexes over a 100 ns duration. These findings underscore the potential of the selected natural compounds as agents targeting KEAP1 and provide valuable insights for future experimental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulrahim A. Alzain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Wad Madani 21111, Sudan (N.A.); (T.H.S.)
| | - Rua M. Mukhtar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Wad Madani 21111, Sudan (N.A.); (T.H.S.)
| | - Nihal Abdelmoniem
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Wad Madani 21111, Sudan (N.A.); (T.H.S.)
| | - Tagyedeen H. Shoaib
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Wad Madani 21111, Sudan (N.A.); (T.H.S.)
| | - Wadah Osman
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj 11942, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11115, Sudan
| | - Marwa Alsulaimany
- Department of Pharmacognosy & Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, Medina 42353, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (A.K.B.A.)
| | - Ahmed K. B. Aljohani
- Department of Pharmacognosy & Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, Medina 42353, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (A.K.B.A.)
| | - Sara A. Almadani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, Medina 42353, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Baiaan H. Alsaadi
- Department of Clinical Services, Pharmaceutical Care Services, King Salman Medical City, MOH, Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah 11176, Saudi Arabia; (B.H.A.); (M.M.A.)
| | - Maryam M. Althubyani
- Department of Clinical Services, Pharmaceutical Care Services, King Salman Medical City, MOH, Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah 11176, Saudi Arabia; (B.H.A.); (M.M.A.)
| | - Shaimaa G. A. Mohamed
- Faculty of Dentistry, British University, El Sherouk City, Suez Desert Road, Cairo 11837, Egypt;
| | - Gamal A. Mohamed
- Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sabrin R. M. Ibrahim
- Department of Chemistry, Preparatory Year Program, Batterjee Medical College, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut 71526, Egypt
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8
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Lutolli A, Che M, Parks FC, Raghavachari K, Flood AH. Cooperativity in Photofoldamer Chloride Double Helices Turned On with Sequences and Solvents, Around with Guests, and Off with Light. J Org Chem 2023. [PMID: 37130263 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.3c00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Photofoldamers are sequence-defined receptors capable of switching guest binding on and off. When two foldamer strands wrap around the guest into 2:1 double helical complexes, cooperativity emerges, and with it comes the possibility to switch cooperativity with light and other stimuli. We use lessons from nonswitchable sequence isomers of aryl-triazole foldamers to guide how to vary the sequence location of azobenzenes from the end (FEND) to the interior (FIN) and report their impact on the cooperative formation of 2:1 complexes with Cl-. This sequence change produces a 125-fold increase from anti-cooperative (α = 0.008) for FEND to non-cooperative with FIN (α = 1.0). Density functional theory (DFT) studies show greater H-bonding and a more relaxed double helix for FIN. The solvent and guest complement the synthetic designs. Use of acetonitrile to enhance solvophobicity further enhances cooperativity in FIN (α = 126) but lowers the difference in cooperativity between sequences. Surprisingly, the impact of the sequence on cooperativity is inverted when the guest size is increased from Cl- (3.4 Å) to BF4- (4.1 Å). While photoconversion of interior azobenzenes was poor, the cis-cis isomer forms 1:1 complexes around chloride consistent with switching cooperativity. The effect of the guest, solvent, and light on the double-helix cooperativity depends on the sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alketa Lutolli
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Minwei Che
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Fred C Parks
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Krishnan Raghavachari
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Amar H Flood
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
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9
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Egbujor MC, Tucci P, Onyeije UC, Emeruwa CN, Saso L. NRF2 Activation by Nitrogen Heterocycles: A Review. Molecules 2023; 28:2751. [PMID: 36985723 PMCID: PMC10058096 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28062751] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Several nitrogen heterocyclic analogues have been applied to clinical practice, and about 75% of drugs approved by the FDA contain at least a heterocyclic moiety. Thus, nitrogen heterocycles are beneficial scaffolds that occupy a central position in the development of new drugs. The fact that certain nitrogen heterocyclic compounds significantly activate the NRF2/ARE signaling pathway and upregulate the expression of NRF2-dependent genes, especially HO-1 and NQO1, underscores the need to study the roles and pharmacological effects of N-based heterocyclic moieties in NRF2 activation. Furthermore, nitrogen heterocycles exhibit significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. NRF2-activating molecules have been of tremendous research interest in recent times due to their therapeutic roles in neuroinflammation and oxidative stress-mediated diseases. A comprehensive review of the NRF2-inducing activities of N-based heterocycles and their derivatives will broaden their therapeutic prospects in a wide range of diseases. Thus, the present review, as the first of its kind, provides an overview of the roles and effects of nitrogen heterocyclic moieties in the activation of the NRF2 signaling pathway underpinning their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions in several diseases, their pharmacological properties and structural-activity relationship are also discussed with the aim of making new discoveries that will stimulate innovative research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melford C. Egbujor
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Rhema University Nigeria, Aba 453115, Nigeria
| | - Paolo Tucci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Ugomma C. Onyeije
- Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka 420007, Nigeria
| | | | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Vittorio Erspamer, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
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10
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Poornashree M, Kumar H, Ajmeer R, Jain R, Jain V. Dual role of Nrf2 in cancer: molecular mechanisms, cellular functions and therapeutic interventions. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:1871-1883. [PMID: 36513865 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-08126-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nrf2 regulates oxidative stress, which is essential for cellular function. Fundamental initiation of Nrf2 in many malignancies increases prosurvival genes & endorses tumour cell propagation via metabolic reprogramming, suppression of tumour programmed cell death, & increased cancer stem cell self-renewal potential. More specifically, Nrf2 has been associated with cancer cell chemoresistance, radioresistance & inflammation-induced carcinogenesis. METHODS AND RESULTS: Many Nrf2 inhibitors have been revealed for tumour treatment and targeting Nrf2 could be an effective cancer therapeutic method. Before spreading, cancer cells adapt to their surroundings. Cancer cells usually have mutations in tumor suppressor genes. In a variety of malignancies, somatic mutations & other anomalies in the Nrf2 genes, as well as renowned cancer suppressor genes including TP53, CDKN2A, PTEN & PIK3CA, have been found. In tumour cells, somatic mutations in the Nrf2 genes, as well as additional mechanisms that affect Nrf2 binding, and produce aberrant Nrf2 activation. Uncontrolled Nrf2 causes tumour cells to become resistant to antineoplastic drugs & reactive oxygen species (ROS), as well as guiding them toward metabolic reprogramming. CONCLUSIONS: As a result, Nrf2 has been studied as potential malignancy treatment target. We covered the pathways, mechanisms, and dual characteristics of Nrf2 in malignancy in this article. We also discussed how Nrf2 inhibitors are targeted against cancer in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Poornashree
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, 570015, Mysuru, India
| | - Hitesh Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, 570015, Mysuru, India
| | - Ramkishan Ajmeer
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization, East Zone, 700020, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Rupshee Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, 570015, Mysuru, India
| | - Vikas Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, 570015, Mysuru, India.
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11
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Sehgal SA, Wu H, Sajid M, Sohail S, Ahsan M, Parveen G, Riaz M, Khan MS, Iqbal MN, Malik A. Pharmacological Progress of Mitophagy Regulation. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:1026-1041. [PMID: 36918785 PMCID: PMC10286582 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230314140528] [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: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
With the advancement in novel drug discovery, biologically active compounds are considered pharmacological tools to understand complex biological mechanisms and the identification of potent therapeutic agents. Mitochondria boast a central role in different integral biological processes and mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with multiple pathologies. It is, therefore, prudent to target mitochondrial quality control mechanisms by using pharmacological approaches. However, there is a scarcity of biologically active molecules, which can interact with mitochondria directly. Currently, the chemical compounds used to induce mitophagy include oligomycin and antimycin A for impaired respiration and acute dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential by using CCCP/FCCP, the mitochondrial uncouplers. These chemical probes alter the homeostasis of the mitochondria and limit our understanding of the energy regulatory mechanisms. Efforts are underway to find molecules that can bring about selective removal of defective mitochondria without compromising normal mitochondrial respiration. In this report, we have tried to summarize and status of the recently reported modulators of mitophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheikh Arslan Sehgal
- Department of Bioinformatics, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan
- Department of Bioinformatics, University of Okara, Okara, Pakistan
| | - Hao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, China
| | - Muhammad Sajid
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Okara, Okara, Pakistan
| | - Summar Sohail
- Department of Forestry, Kohsar University Murree, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ahsan
- Institute of Environmental and Agricultural Sciences, University of Okara, Okara, Punjab, Pakistan
| | | | - Mehreen Riaz
- Department of Zoology, Women University, Swabi, Pakistan
| | | | - Muhammad Nasir Iqbal
- Department of Bioinformatics, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Abbeha Malik
- Department of Bioinformatics, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan
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12
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Crisman E, Duarte P, Dauden E, Cuadrado A, Rodríguez-Franco MI, López MG, León R. KEAP1-NRF2 protein-protein interaction inhibitors: Design, pharmacological properties and therapeutic potential. Med Res Rev 2023; 43:237-287. [PMID: 36086898 PMCID: PMC10087726 DOI: 10.1002/med.21925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is considered the master regulator of the phase II antioxidant response. It controls a plethora of cytoprotective genes related to oxidative stress, inflammation, and protein homeostasis, among other processes. Activation of these pathways has been described in numerous pathologies including cancer, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, digestive, metabolic, autoimmune, and neurodegenerative diseases. Considering the increasing interest of discovering novel NRF2 activators due to its clinical application, initial efforts were devoted to the development of electrophilic drugs able to induce NRF2 nuclear accumulation by targeting its natural repressor protein Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1) through covalent modifications on cysteine residues. However, off-target effects of these drugs prompted the development of an innovative strategy, the search of KEAP1-NRF2 protein-protein interaction (PPI) inhibitors. These innovative activators are proposed to target NRF2 in a more selective way, leading to potentially improved drugs with the application for a variety of diseases that are currently under investigation. In this review, we summarize known KEAP1-NRF2 PPI inhibitors to date and the bases of their design highlighting the most important features of their respective interactions. We also discuss the preclinical pharmacological properties described for the most promising compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Crisman
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IQM-CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Princesa, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Teófilo Hernando y Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Duarte
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IQM-CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Teófilo Hernando y Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Esteban Dauden
- Instituto Teófilo Hernando y Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Cuadrado
- Departmento de Bioquímica, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas 'Alberto Sols' UAM-CSIC, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Manuela G López
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Princesa, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Teófilo Hernando y Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael León
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IQM-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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13
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Sun Y, Zheng L, Yang B, Ge S, Li Q, Zhang M, Shen S, Ying Y. Design, synthesis and evaluation of novel small molecules acting as Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction inhibitors. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2022; 37:2575-2588. [PMID: 36128875 PMCID: PMC9518255 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2022.2124408] [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] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct interference with Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction (PPI) has recently been introduced as an attractive approach to control life-threatening diseases like myocarditis. The present study aimed to investigate the potential application in myocarditis of a series of novel non-naphthalene derivatives as potential Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitors. Our results indicated that the optimal compound K22 displayed the highest metabolic stability and showed notable Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitory activities in vitro. K22 effectively triggered Nrf2 activation and increased the protein and mRNA expression of Nrf2-regulated genes in H9c2 cells. Moreover, pre-treatment with K22 was shown to mitigate LPS-induced damage to H9c2 cells, causing a marked decrease in the levels of inflammatory factors as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, K22 was also shown to be non-mutagenic in the Ames test. Overall, our findings suggest that K22 may be a promising drug lead as a Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitor for myocarditis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunfeng Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lulu Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuyu Ge
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mingwan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shenghui Shen
- Department of Cardiology, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yin Ying
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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14
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Bathish B, Robertson H, Dillon JF, Dinkova-Kostova AT, Hayes JD. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and mechanisms by which it is ameliorated by activation of the CNC-bZIP transcription factor Nrf2. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 188:221-261. [PMID: 35728768 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.06.226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) represents a global health concern. It is characterised by fatty liver, hepatocyte cell death and inflammation, which are associated with lipotoxicity, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, iron overload and oxidative stress. NF-E2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor that combats oxidative stress. Remarkably, Nrf2 is downregulated during the development of NASH, which probably accelerates disease, whereas in pre-clinical studies the upregulation of Nrf2 inhibits NASH. We now review the scientific literature that proposes Nrf2 downregulation during NASH involves its increased ubiquitylation and proteasomal degradation, mediated by Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) and/or β-transducin repeat-containing protein (β-TrCP) and/or HMG-CoA reductase degradation protein 1 (Hrd1, also called synoviolin (SYVN1)). Additionally, downregulation of Nrf2-mediated transcription during NASH may involve diminished recruitment of coactivators by Nrf2, due to increased levels of activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) and nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) p65, or competition for promoter binding due to upregulation of BTB and CNC homology 1 (Bach1). Many processes that downregulate Nrf2 are triggered by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), with oxidative stress amplifying its signalling. Oxidative stress may also increase suppression of Nrf2 by β-TrCP through facilitating formation of the DSGIS-containing phosphodegron in Nrf2 by glycogen synthase kinase-3. In animal models, knockout of Nrf2 increases susceptibility to NASH, while pharmacological activation of Nrf2 by inducing agents that target Keap1 inhibits development of NASH. These inducing agents probably counter Nrf2 downregulation affected by β-TrCP, Hrd1/SYVN1, ATF3, NF-κB p65 and Bach1, by suppressing oxidative stress. Activation of Nrf2 is also likely to inhibit NASH by ameliorating lipotoxicity, inflammation, ER stress and iron overload. Crucially, pharmacological activation of Nrf2 in mice in which NASH has already been established supresses liver steatosis and inflammation. There is therefore compelling evidence that pharmacological activation of Nrf2 provides a comprehensive multipronged strategy to treat NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boushra Bathish
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 9SY, Scotland, UK
| | - Holly Robertson
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 9SY, Scotland, UK; Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - John F Dillon
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Albena T Dinkova-Kostova
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 9SY, Scotland, UK
| | - John D Hayes
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 9SY, Scotland, UK.
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15
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Liu G, Hou R, Xu L, Zhang X, Yan J, Xing C, Xu K, Zhuang C. Crystallography-Guided Optimizations of the Keap1-Nrf2 Inhibitors on the Solvent Exposed Region: From Symmetric to Asymmetric Naphthalenesulfonamides. J Med Chem 2022; 65:8289-8302. [PMID: 35687391 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Directly inhibiting the Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction has been investigated as a promising strategy to activate Nrf2 for anti-inflammation. We previously reported a naphthalensulfonamide Keap1-Nrf2 inhibitor NXPZ-2, but have not determined the exact binding mode with Keap1. This symmetric naphthalenesulfonamide compound has relatively low solubility. Herein, we first determined a crystal complex (resolution: 2.3 Å) of human Keap1 Kelch domain with NXPZ-2. Further optimizations on the solvent exposed region obtained asymmetric naphthalenesulfonamides and three crystal structures of Keap1 in complex with designed compounds. Among them, the asymmetric piperazinyl-naphthalenesulfonamide 6k with better aqueous solubility showed the best KD2 value of 0.21 μM to block the interaction. The productions of ROS and NO and the expression of TNF-α were inhibited by 6k in the in vitro model. This compound could relieve inflammations by significantly increasing the Nrf2 nuclear translocation in the LPS-induced ALI model with promising pharmacokinetic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guodong Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Ruilin Hou
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Lijuan Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xinqi Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Jianyu Yan
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Chengguo Xing
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida, 1345 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Ke Xu
- Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Shanghai 200434, China
| | - Chunlin Zhuang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China.,School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
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16
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Lao Y, Wang Y, Chen J, Huang P, Su R, Shi J, Jiang C, Zhang J. Synthesis and biological evaluation of 1,2,4-triazole derivatives as potential Nrf2 activators for the treatment of cerebral ischemic injury. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 236:114315. [PMID: 35390713 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Acute ischemic stroke is a leading cause of disability and death. The development of neuroprotectants is an emerging strategy for the treatment of ischemic stroke. In this work, we designed and synthesized a series of 1,3,5-triaryl substituent triazole derivatives by introducing a phenolic group and phenyl ring to 3,5-diaryl substituents oxadiazole. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis showed that compounds with alkyl groups or with substituents at the 3-position possessed better protective effects. Among the derivatives, 3,5-dimethyl substituted compound 24 exhibited the best neuroprotective effect with weak cytotoxicity. Compound 24 possessed a high plasma protein binding rate, moderate hERG inhibition, low acute toxicity, and suitable pharmacokinetic properties. In vivo experiments demonstrated that compound 24 exerted a protective effect by reducing cerebral infarction size, improving neurological behavior, and restoring redox balance in middle cerebral artery occlusion rats. Further investigation indicated that compound 24 exerted a protective effect against sodium nitroprusside (SNP) induced cell damage by scavenging intracellular reactive oxygen species and restoring mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, compound 24 induced the nuclear translocation of Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) and promoted the generation of antioxidative proteins, including Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase (NQO1), and glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic (GCLC). Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) experiments indicated that compound 24 might activate the Nrf2 signaling pathway by interacting with the Keap1 Kelch domain. Taken together, these facts indicate that compound 24 might have potential in the treatment of ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoqiang Lao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Jianwen Chen
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Ping Huang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Ruiqi Su
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Jinguo Shi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Caibao Jiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Jingxia Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
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17
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Georgakopoulos N, Talapatra S, Dikovskaya D, Dayalan Naidu S, Higgins M, Gatliff J, Ayhan A, Nikoloudaki R, Schaap M, Valko K, Javid F, Dinkova-Kostova AT, Kozielski F, Wells G. Phenyl Bis-Sulfonamide Keap1-Nrf2 Protein-Protein Interaction Inhibitors with an Alternative Binding Mode. J Med Chem 2022; 65:7380-7398. [PMID: 35549469 PMCID: PMC9150106 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Inhibitors of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) increase the activity of the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) by stalling its ubiquitination and degradation. This enhances the expression of genes encoding proteins involved in drug detoxification, redox homeostasis, and mitochondrial function. Nrf2 activation offers a potential therapeutic approach for conditions including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, vascular inflammation, and chronic obstructive airway disease. Non-electrophilic Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction (PPI) inhibitors may have improved toxicity profiles and different pharmacological properties to cysteine-reactive electrophilic inhibitors. Here, we describe and characterize a series of phenyl bis-sulfonamide PPI inhibitors that bind to Keap1 at submicromolar concentrations. Structural studies reveal that the compounds bind to Keap1 in a distinct "peptidomimetic" conformation that resembles the Keap1-Nrf2 ETGE peptide complex. This is different to other small molecule Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitors, including bicyclic aryl bis-sulfonamides, offering a starting point for new design approaches to Keap1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Georgakopoulos
- UCL
School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29/39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, U.K.
- Stevenage
Bioscience Catalyst, Keregen Therapeutics
Ltd., Gunnels Wood Rd, Stevenage SG1 2FX, U.K.
| | - Sandeep Talapatra
- UCL
School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29/39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, U.K.
| | - Dina Dikovskaya
- Jacqui
Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, Scotland, U.K.
| | - Sharadha Dayalan Naidu
- Jacqui
Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, Scotland, U.K.
| | - Maureen Higgins
- Jacqui
Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, Scotland, U.K.
| | - Jemma Gatliff
- UCL
School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29/39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, U.K.
- Stevenage
Bioscience Catalyst, Keregen Therapeutics
Ltd., Gunnels Wood Rd, Stevenage SG1 2FX, U.K.
| | - Aysel Ayhan
- UCL
School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29/39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, U.K.
| | - Roxani Nikoloudaki
- UCL
School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29/39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, U.K.
- Stevenage
Bioscience Catalyst, Keregen Therapeutics
Ltd., Gunnels Wood Rd, Stevenage SG1 2FX, U.K.
| | - Marjolein Schaap
- UCL
School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29/39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, U.K.
| | - Klara Valko
- UCL
School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29/39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, U.K.
- Bio-Mimetic
Chromatography Consultancy, 17 Cabot Close, Stevenage SG2 0ES, U.K.
| | - Farideh Javid
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Huddersfield, Queensgate, Huddersfield HD1 3DH, U.K.
| | - Albena T. Dinkova-Kostova
- Jacqui
Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, Scotland, U.K.
- Department
of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences and Department of Medicine,
School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Frank Kozielski
- UCL
School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29/39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, U.K.
| | - Geoffrey Wells
- UCL
School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29/39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, U.K.
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18
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Oekchuae S, Sirirak J, Charoensuksai P, Wongprayoon P, Chuaypen N, Boonsombat J, Ruchirawat S, Tangkijvanich P, Suksamrarn A, Limpachayaporn P. The Design and Synthesis of a New Series of 1,2,3-Triazole-Cored Structures Tethering Aryl Urea and Their Highly Selective Cytotoxicity toward HepG2. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15050504. [PMID: 35631331 PMCID: PMC9147274 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Target cancer drug therapy is an alternative treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, the treatment using approved targeted drugs has encountered a number of limitations, including the poor pharmacological properties of drugs, therapy efficiency, adverse effects, and drug resistance. As a consequence, the discovery and development of anti-HCC drug structures are therefore still in high demand. Herein, we designed and synthesized a new series of 1,2,3-triazole-cored structures incorporating aryl urea as anti-HepG2 agents. Forty-nine analogs were prepared via nucleophilic addition and copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) with excellent yields. Significantly, almost all triazole-cored analogs exhibited less cytotoxicity toward normal cells, human embryonal lung fibroblast cell MRC-5, compared to Sorafenib and Doxorubicin. Among them, 2m’ and 2e exhibited the highest selectivity indexes (SI = 14.7 and 12.2), which were ca. 4.4- and 3.7-fold superior to that of Sorafenib (SI = 3.30) and ca. 3.8- and 3.2-fold superior to that of Doxorubicin (SI = 3.83), respectively. Additionally, excellent inhibitory activity against hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2, comparable to Sorafenib, was still maintained. A cell-cycle analysis and apoptosis induction study suggested that 2m’ and 2e likely share a similar mechanism of action to Sorafenib. Furthermore, compounds 2m’ and 2e exhibit appropriate drug-likeness, analyzed by SwissADME. With their excellent anti-HepG2 activity, improved selectivity indexes, and appropriate druggability, the triazole-cored analogs 2m’ and 2e are suggested to be promising candidates for development as targeted cancer agents and drugs used in combination therapy for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sittisak Oekchuae
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom 73000, Thailand; (S.O.); (J.S.)
- Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand; (J.B.); (S.R.)
| | - Jitnapa Sirirak
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom 73000, Thailand; (S.O.); (J.S.)
| | - Purin Charoensuksai
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom 73000, Thailand; (P.C.); (P.W.)
| | - Pawaris Wongprayoon
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom 73000, Thailand; (P.C.); (P.W.)
| | - Natthaya Chuaypen
- Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (N.C.); (P.T.)
| | - Jutatip Boonsombat
- Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand; (J.B.); (S.R.)
- Center of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology (EHT), OPS, MHESI, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Somsak Ruchirawat
- Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand; (J.B.); (S.R.)
- Center of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology (EHT), OPS, MHESI, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Program in Chemical Sciences, Chulabhorn Graduate Institute, Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Bangkok 10210, Thailand
| | - Pisit Tangkijvanich
- Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (N.C.); (P.T.)
| | - Apichart Suksamrarn
- Department of Chemistry and Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ramkhamhaeng University, Bangkok 10240, Thailand;
| | - Panupun Limpachayaporn
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom 73000, Thailand; (S.O.); (J.S.)
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +66-34-255797; Fax: +66-34-271356
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19
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Role of Mitophagy in the Pathogenesis of Stroke: From Mechanism to Therapy. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:6232902. [PMID: 35265262 PMCID: PMC8898771 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6232902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria can supply adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to the tissue, which can regulate metabolism during the pathologic process and is also involved in the pathophysiology of neuronal injury after stroke. Recent studies have suggested that selective autophagy could play important roles in the pathophysiological process of stroke, especially mitophagy. It is usually mediated by the PINK1/Parkin-independent pathway or PINK1/Parkin-dependent pathway. Moreover, mitophagy may be a potential target in the therapy of stroke because the control of mitophagy is neuroprotective in stroke in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we briefly summarize recent researches in mitophagy, introduce the role of mitophagy in the pathogenesis of stroke, then highlight the strategies targeting mitophagy in the treatment of stroke, and finally propose several issues in the treatment of stroke by targeting mitophagy.
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20
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Maltol Promotes Mitophagy and Inhibits Oxidative Stress via the Nrf2/PINK1/Parkin Pathway after Spinal Cord Injury. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:1337630. [PMID: 35154562 PMCID: PMC8826207 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1337630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI), a fatal disease in the central nervous system, is characteristic of weak neuronal regeneration ability and complex pathological progress. Activation of oxidative stress (OS) and apoptosis-mediated cell death significantly contributes to the progression of SCI. Current evidence suggests that maltol exerts natural antioxidative properties via obstructing OS and apoptosis. However, the significant effect of maltol on SCI treatment has never been evaluated yet. In our current study, we explored maltol administration that could trigger the expression of Nrf2 and promote the retranslocation of Nrf2 from the cytosol to the nucleus, which can subsequently obstruct OS signal and apoptosis-mediated neuronal cell death after SCI. Furthermore, we found that maltol treatment enhances PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy in PC12 cells, facilitating the recovery of mitochondrial functions. Our findings propose that maltol could be a promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment and management of SCI.
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21
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Dayalan Naidu S, Suzuki T, Dikovskaya D, Knatko EV, Higgins M, Sato M, Novak M, Villegas JA, Moore TW, Yamamoto M, Dinkova-Kostova AT. The isoquinoline PRL-295 increases the thermostability of Keap1 and disrupts its interaction with Nrf2. iScience 2022; 25:103703. [PMID: 35036882 PMCID: PMC8749459 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcription factor Nrf2 and its negative regulator Keap1 orchestrate a cytoprotective response against oxidative, metabolic, and inflammatory stress. Keap1 is a drug target, with several small molecules in drug development. Here, we show that the isoquinoline PRL-295 increased Keap1 thermostability in lysates from cells expressing fluorescently tagged Keap1. The thermostability of endogenous Keap1 also increased in intact cells and murine liver following PRL-295 treatment. Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging-Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FLIM-FRET) experiments in cells co-expressing sfGFP-Nrf2 and Keap1-mCherry further showed that PRL-295 prolonged the donor fluorescence lifetime, indicating disruption of the Keap1-Nrf2 protein complex. Orally administered PRL-295 to mice activated the Nrf2transcriptional target NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) in liver and decreased the levels of plasma alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase upon acetaminophen-induced hepatic injury. Thus, PRL-295 engages the Keap1 protein target in cells and in vivo, disrupting its interaction with Nrf2, leading to activation of Nrf2-dependent transcription and hepatocellular protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharadha Dayalan Naidu
- Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, James Arnott Drive, Dundee, Scotland DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Takafumi Suzuki
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Dina Dikovskaya
- Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, James Arnott Drive, Dundee, Scotland DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Elena V. Knatko
- Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, James Arnott Drive, Dundee, Scotland DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Maureen Higgins
- Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, James Arnott Drive, Dundee, Scotland DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Miu Sato
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Miroslav Novak
- Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, James Arnott Drive, Dundee, Scotland DD1 9SY, UK
| | - José A. Villegas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Terry W. Moore
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Cancer Center, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Masayuki Yamamoto
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Albena T. Dinkova-Kostova
- Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, James Arnott Drive, Dundee, Scotland DD1 9SY, UK
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences and Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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22
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Tao Z, Haiyuan W, Wen M, Zhangyuan L, Panpan H, Nanqian Z, Jianchao H, Ting L, Mingming S, Suping B. Synthesis and Antiproliferative Activity Evaluation of Novel Glaucocalyxin A-1,2,3-Triazole Derivatives. CHINESE J ORG CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.6023/cjoc202205049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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23
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He L, Sun Y. The potential role of Keap1-Nrf2 pathway in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, type 2 diabetes, and type 2 diabetes-related Alzheimer's disease. Metab Brain Dis 2021; 36:1469-1479. [PMID: 34129198 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-021-00762-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Kelch-like ECH associated-protein 1 (Keap1)-nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway is thought to be the key regulatory process defensing oxidative stress in multiple organs. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are both serious global health problems with high prevalence. A growing number of literatures have suggested a possible link between Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway and the pathological changes of T2DM, AD as well as T2DM-related AD. The current review mainly discusses how the damaged Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway leads to dysregulated redox molecular signaling, which may contribute to the pathogenesis of AD and T2DM-related cognitive dysfunction, as well as some compounds targeting this pathway. The further exploration of the mechanisms of this pathway could provide novel therapeutic strategies to improve cognitive function, through restoration of expression or translocation of Nrf2 and scavenging excessive free radicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling He
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211198, China.
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24
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Šonský I, Vodička P, Vodičková Kepková K, Hansíková H. Mitophagy in Huntington's disease. Neurochem Int 2021; 149:105147. [PMID: 34329735 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD), as well as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, belong to a group of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by common features, such as the progressive loss of neurons and the presence of pathogenic forms of misfolded protein aggregates. A quality control system such as autophagy is crucial for the clearance of protein aggregates and dysfunctional organelles and thus essential for the maintenance of neuronal homeostasis. The constant high energy demand of neuronal tissue links neurodegeneration to mitochondria. Inefficient removal of damaged mitochondria is thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as HD. In addition, direct involvement of the huntingtin protein in the autophagic machinery has been described. In this review, we focus on mitophagy, a selective form of autophagy responsible for mitochondrial turnover. We also discuss the relevance of pharmacological regulation of mitophagy in the future therapeutic approach to neurodegenerations, including HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Šonský
- Laboratory for Study of Mitochondrial Disorders, Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Czech Republic
| | - P Vodička
- Laboratory of Applied Proteome Analyses, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - K Vodičková Kepková
- Laboratory of Applied Proteome Analyses, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - H Hansíková
- Laboratory for Study of Mitochondrial Disorders, Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Czech Republic.
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25
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Pallesen JS, Narayanan D, Tran KT, Solbak SMØ, Marseglia G, Sørensen LME, Høj LJ, Munafò F, Carmona RMC, Garcia AD, Desu HL, Brambilla R, Johansen TN, Popowicz GM, Sattler M, Gajhede M, Bach A. Deconstructing Noncovalent Kelch-like ECH-Associated Protein 1 (Keap1) Inhibitors into Fragments to Reconstruct New Potent Compounds. J Med Chem 2021; 64:4623-4661. [PMID: 33818106 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c02094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Targeting the protein-protein interaction (PPI) between nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) is a potential therapeutic strategy to control diseases involving oxidative stress. Here, six classes of known small-molecule Keap1-Nrf2 PPI inhibitors were dissected into 77 fragments in a fragment-based deconstruction reconstruction (FBDR) study and tested in four orthogonal assays. This gave 17 fragment hits of which six were shown by X-ray crystallography to bind in the Keap1 Kelch binding pocket. Two hits were merged into compound 8 with a 220-380-fold stronger affinity (Ki = 16 μM) relative to the parent fragments. Systematic optimization resulted in several novel analogues with Ki values of 0.04-0.5 μM, binding modes determined by X-ray crystallography, and enhanced microsomal stability. This demonstrates how FBDR can be used to find new fragment hits, elucidate important ligand-protein interactions, and identify new potent inhibitors of the Keap1-Nrf2 PPI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob S Pallesen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dilip Narayanan
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kim T Tran
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sara M Ø Solbak
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Giuseppe Marseglia
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Food and Drug Department, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/a, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Louis M E Sørensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars J Høj
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Federico Munafò
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rosa M C Carmona
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anthony D Garcia
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.,École Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Rennes, 11 Allée de Beaulieu, CS 50837, Rennes Cedex 7 35708, France
| | - Haritha L Desu
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Dept. Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, United States
| | - Roberta Brambilla
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Dept. Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, United States.,Department of Neurobiology Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, and BRIDGE-Brain Research Inter Disciplinary Guided Excellence, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, DK-5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Tommy N Johansen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Grzegorz M Popowicz
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.,Biomolecular NMR and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, 85747 Garching, Germany
| | - Michael Sattler
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.,Biomolecular NMR and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich at Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, 85747 Garching, Germany
| | - Michael Gajhede
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Bach
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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26
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Identification of novel inhibitors of Keap1/Nrf2 by a promising method combining protein-protein interaction-oriented library and machine learning. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7420. [PMID: 33795749 PMCID: PMC8016952 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86616-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein–protein interactions (PPIs) are prospective but challenging targets for drug discovery, because screening using traditional small-molecule libraries often fails to identify hits. Recently, we developed a PPI-oriented library comprising 12,593 small-to-medium-sized newly synthesized molecules. This study validates a promising combined method using PPI-oriented library and ligand-based virtual screening (LBVS) to discover novel PPI inhibitory compounds for Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). We performed LBVS with two random forest models against our PPI library and the following time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) assays of 620 compounds identified 15 specific hit compounds. The high hit rates for the entire PPI library (estimated 0.56–1.3%) and the LBVS (maximum 5.4%) compared to a conventional screening library showed the utility of the library and the efficiency of LBVS. All the hit compounds possessed novel structures with Tanimoto similarity ≤ 0.26 to known Keap1/Nrf2 inhibitors and aqueous solubility (AlogP < 5). Reasonable binding modes were predicted using 3D alignment of five hit compounds and a Keap1/Nrf2 peptide crystal structure. Our results represent a new, efficient method combining the PPI library and LBVS to identify novel PPI inhibitory ligands with expanded chemical space.
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27
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Direct Keap1-kelch inhibitors as potential drug candidates for oxidative stress-orchestrated diseases: A review on In silico perspective. Pharmacol Res 2021; 167:105577. [PMID: 33774182 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The recent outcry in the search for direct keap1 inhibitors requires a quicker and more effective drug discovery process which is an inherent property of the Computer Aided Drug Discovery (CADD) to bring drug candidates into the clinic for patient's use. This Keap1 (negative regulator of ARE master activator) is emerging as a therapeutic strategy to combat oxidative stress-orchestrated diseases. The advances in computer algorithm and compound databases require that we highlight the functionalities that this technology possesses that can be exploited to target Keap1-Nrf2 PPI. Therefore, in this review, we uncover the in silico approaches that had been exploited towards the identification of keap1 inhibition in the light of appropriate fitting with relevant amino acid residues, we found 3 and 16 other compounds that perfectly fit keap1 kelch pocket/domain. Our goal is to harness the parameters that could orchestrate keap1 surface druggability by utilizing hotspot regions for virtual fragment screening and identification of hotspot residues.
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28
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Abstract
The transcription factor NRF2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) triggers homeostatic responses against a plethora of environmental or endogenous deviations in redox metabolism, inflammation, proteostasis, etc. Therefore, pharmacological activation of NRF2 is a promising therapeutic strategy for several chronic diseases that are underlined by low-grade oxidative inflammation and dysregulation of redox metabolism, such as neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases. While NRF2 activation is useful in inhibiting carcinogenesis, its inhibition is needed in constituted tumors where NRF2 provides a survival advantage in the challenging tumor niche. This review describes the electrophilic and non-electrophilic NRF2 activators with clinical projection in various chronic diseases. We also analyze the status of NRF2 inhibitors, which are for the moment in a proof-of-concept stage. Advanced in silico screening and medicinal chemistry are expected to provide new or repurposing small molecules with increased potential for fostering the development of targeted NRF2 modulators. The nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NFE2)-related factor 2 (NRF2) is rapidly degraded by proteasomes under a basal condition in a Keap1-dependent manner. ROS oxidatively modifies Keap1 to release NRF2 and allow its nuclear translocation. Here it binds to the antioxidant response element to regulate gene transcription. An alternative mechanism controlling NRF2 stability is glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3)-induced phosphorylation. Indicated in blue are NRF2-activating and NRF2-inhibiting drugs.
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29
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Mahadari MK, Tague AJ, Keller PA, Pyne SG. Synthesis of sterically congested 1,5-disubstituted-1,2,3-Triazoles using chloromagnesium acetylides and hindered 1-naphthyl azides. Tetrahedron 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tet.2020.131916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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30
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Chartoumpekis DV, Fu CY, Ziros PG, Sykiotis GP. Patent Review (2017-2020) of the Keap1/Nrf2 Pathway Using PatSeer Pro: Focus on Autoimmune Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9111138. [PMID: 33212784 PMCID: PMC7697445 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9111138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Research on the antioxidant pathway comprising the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its cytoplasmic inhibitor Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) is ever increasing. As modulators of this pathway have started to be used in clinical trials and clinical practice, Nrf2 has become the subject of several patents. To assess the patent landscape of the last three years on Nrf2 and evaluate the main fields they refer to, we used the web-based tool PatSeer Pro to identify patents mentioning the Nrf2 pathway between January 2017 and May 2020. This search resulted in 509 unique patents that focus on topics such as autoimmune, neurodegenerative, liver, kidney, and lung diseases and refer to modulators (mainly activators) of the Nrf2 pathway as potential treatments. Autoimmunity emerged as the main theme among the topics of Nrf2 patents, including a broad range of diseases, such as systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel diseases, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, etc.; however, there was a dearth of experimental support for the respective patents' claims. Given that chronic inflammation is the main element of the pathophysiology of most autoimmune diseases, the majority of patents referring to activation of Nrf2 as a method to treat autoimmune diseases base their claims on the well-established anti-inflammatory role of Nrf2. In conclusion, there is strong interest in securing intellectual property rights relating to the potential use of Nrf2 pathway activators in a variety of diseases, and this trend parallels the rise in related research publications. However, in the case of autoimmunity, more research is warranted to support the potential beneficial effects of Nrf2 modulation in each disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dionysios V. Chartoumpekis
- Service of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Lausanne University Hospital, and Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (D.V.C.); (P.G.Z.)
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Chun-Yan Fu
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China;
| | - Panos G. Ziros
- Service of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Lausanne University Hospital, and Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (D.V.C.); (P.G.Z.)
| | - Gerasimos P. Sykiotis
- Service of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Lausanne University Hospital, and Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (D.V.C.); (P.G.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-21-314-0606
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Direct inhibition of Keap1-Nrf2 Protein-Protein interaction as a potential therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease. Bioorg Chem 2020; 103:104172. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2020.104172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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32
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Torrente L, Maan G, Oumkaltoum Rezig A, Quinn J, Jackson A, Grilli A, Casares L, Zhang Y, Kulesskiy E, Saarela J, Bicciato S, Edwards J, Dinkova-Kostova AT, de la Vega L. High NRF2 Levels Correlate with Poor Prognosis in Colorectal Cancer Patients and with Sensitivity to the Kinase Inhibitor AT9283 In Vitro. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E1365. [PMID: 32992842 PMCID: PMC7600603 DOI: 10.3390/biom10101365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant hyperactivation of nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NF-E2) p45-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a common event in many tumour types and associates with resistance to therapy and poor patient prognosis; however, its relevance in colorectal tumours is not well-established. Measuring the expression of surrogate genes for NRF2 activity in silico, in combination with validation in patients' samples, we show that the NRF2 pathway is upregulated in colorectal tumours and that high levels of nuclear NRF2 correlate with a poor patient prognosis. These results highlight the need to overcome the protection provided by NRF2 and present an opportunity to selectively kill cancer cells with hyperactive NRF2. Exploiting the CRISPR/Cas9 technology, we generated colorectal cancer cell lines with hyperactive NRF2 and used them to perform a drug screen. We identified AT9283, an Aurora kinase inhibitor, for its selectivity towards killing cancer cells with hyperactive NRF2 as a consequence to either genetic or pharmacological activation. Our results show that hyperactivation of NRF2 in colorectal cancer cells might present a vulnerability that could potentially be therapeutically exploited by using the Aurora kinase inhibitor AT9283.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Torrente
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (L.T.); (G.M.); (A.J.); (L.C.); (Y.Z.); (A.T.D.-K.)
- Department of Cancer Physiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Gunjit Maan
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (L.T.); (G.M.); (A.J.); (L.C.); (Y.Z.); (A.T.D.-K.)
| | - Asma Oumkaltoum Rezig
- Unit of Gastrointestinal Oncology and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (A.O.R.); (J.Q.); (J.E.)
| | - Jean Quinn
- Unit of Gastrointestinal Oncology and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (A.O.R.); (J.Q.); (J.E.)
| | - Angus Jackson
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (L.T.); (G.M.); (A.J.); (L.C.); (Y.Z.); (A.T.D.-K.)
| | - Andrea Grilli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia; via G, Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy; (A.G.); (S.B.)
| | - Laura Casares
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (L.T.); (G.M.); (A.J.); (L.C.); (Y.Z.); (A.T.D.-K.)
| | - Ying Zhang
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (L.T.); (G.M.); (A.J.); (L.C.); (Y.Z.); (A.T.D.-K.)
| | - Evgeny Kulesskiy
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), University of Helsinki, Tukholmankatu 8, FI-00290 Helsinki, Finland; (E.K.); (J.S.)
| | - Jani Saarela
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), University of Helsinki, Tukholmankatu 8, FI-00290 Helsinki, Finland; (E.K.); (J.S.)
| | - Silvio Bicciato
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia; via G, Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy; (A.G.); (S.B.)
| | - Joanne Edwards
- Unit of Gastrointestinal Oncology and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Cancer Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (A.O.R.); (J.Q.); (J.E.)
| | - Albena T. Dinkova-Kostova
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (L.T.); (G.M.); (A.J.); (L.C.); (Y.Z.); (A.T.D.-K.)
- Departments of Medicine and Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Laureano de la Vega
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK; (L.T.); (G.M.); (A.J.); (L.C.); (Y.Z.); (A.T.D.-K.)
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Lu H, Zhou Q, He J, Jiang Z, Peng C, Tong R, Shi J. Recent advances in the development of protein-protein interactions modulators: mechanisms and clinical trials. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:213. [PMID: 32968059 PMCID: PMC7511340 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00315-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 375] [Impact Index Per Article: 93.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) have pivotal roles in life processes. The studies showed that aberrant PPIs are associated with various diseases, including cancer, infectious diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, targeting PPIs is a direction in treating diseases and an essential strategy for the development of new drugs. In the past few decades, the modulation of PPIs has been recognized as one of the most challenging drug discovery tasks. In recent years, some PPIs modulators have entered clinical studies, some of which been approved for marketing, indicating that the modulators targeting PPIs have broad prospects. Here, we summarize the recent advances in PPIs modulators, including small molecules, peptides, and antibodies, hoping to provide some guidance to the design of novel drugs targeting PPIs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiying Lu
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 610072, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiaodan Zhou
- Department of Ultrasonic, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, 610072, Chengdu, China
| | - Jun He
- Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhongliang Jiang
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Cheng Peng
- The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Standardization of Chinese Herbal Medicines of Ministry, State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Systematic Research, Development and Utilization of Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy College, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 611137, Chengdu, China.
| | - Rongsheng Tong
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 610072, Chengdu, China.
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Department of Pharmacy, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 610072, Chengdu, China.
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Dikovskaya D, Dinkova-Kostova AT. Measuring Changes in Keap1-Nrf2 Protein Complex Conformation in Individual Cells by FLIM-FRET. CURRENT PROTOCOLS IN TOXICOLOGY 2020; 85:e96. [PMID: 32786061 DOI: 10.1002/cptx.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The nuclear factor-erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-mediated stress response is a major cellular defense mechanism against endogenous and exogenous oxidants, electrophiles, and pro-inflammatory agents. A number of Nrf2 inducers are being developed to therapeutically stimulate this pathway. Inducers are typically sensed by Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), a negative regulator and a binding partner of Nrf2. Modifications of Keap1 by oxidants or electrophiles, or its targeting by compounds that disrupt its interaction with Nrf2, alter the conformation of the Keap1-Nrf2 protein complex, which initiates the accumulation of Nrf2 required for mounting a stress response. To detect conformational changes in the Keap1-Nrf2 complex in live cells, we have developed a procedure based on Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging-Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FLIM-FRET). The procedure includes a FLIM time course in cells expressing fluorescently-tagged Nrf2 and Keap1, followed by an extended analysis pipeline that quantifies changes in fluorescence lifetime of labeled Nrf2. The analysis visualizes and removes intensity-dependent bias in fluorescence lifetime measured with the Time-Correlated Single Photon Counting (TCSPC) approach, thereby improving the accuracy of quantification. The throughput is increased by the whole-experiment analysis within the newly developed FLIM dataset tool (FLIMDAST) and by the time-lapse FLIM described here. This pipeline is also suitable for applications beyond the Nrf2 field that assess small changes in fluorescence lifetime of objects with variable fluorescence intensities measured using TCSPC-based FLIM. © 2020 The Authors. Basic Protocol 1: Lipofectamine 2000 transfection Alternate Protocol 1: Calcium phosphate transfection Basic Protocol 2: Time course with individual FLIM Alternate Protocol 2: Time course with time-lapse FLIM Support Protocol: Measuring Instrument Response Function (IRF) Basic Protocol 3: Data analysis in SPCImage Basic Protocol 4: Data processing in ImageJ/FIJI Basic Protocol 5: Experiment analysis in FLIMDAST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Dikovskaya
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Albena T Dinkova-Kostova
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences and Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Discovery of 2-oxy-2-phenylacetic acid substituted naphthalene sulfonamide derivatives as potent KEAP1-NRF2 protein-protein interaction inhibitors for inflammatory conditions. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 207:112734. [PMID: 32866756 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a pleiotropic transcription factor which regulates the constitutive and inducible transcription of a wide array of genes and confers protection against a variety of pathologies. Directly disrupting Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1)-NRF2 protein-protein interaction (PPI) has been explored as a promising strategy to activate NRF2. We reported here the first identification of a series of 2-oxy-2-phenylacetic acid substituted naphthalene sulfonamide derivatives as potent KEAP1-NRF2 inhibitors. Our efforts led to the potent small molecule KEAP1-NRF2 inhibitor, 20c, which exhibited a Kd of 24 nM to KEAP1 and an IC50 of 75 nM in disrupting KEAP1-NRF2 interaction. Subsequent biological studies provided consistent evidence across mouse macrophage cell-based and in vivo models that 20c induced NRF2 target gene expression and enhanced downstream antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Our study not only demonstrated that small molecule KEAP1-NRF2 PPI inhibitors can be potential preventive and therapeutic agents for diseases and conditions involving oxidative stress and inflammation but also enriched the chemical diversity of the KEAP1-NRF2 inhibitors.
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Bento-Pereira C, Dinkova-Kostova AT. Activation of transcription factor Nrf2 to counteract mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson's disease. Med Res Rev 2020; 41:785-802. [PMID: 32681666 DOI: 10.1002/med.21714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, for which no disease-modifying therapies are available to date. Although understanding of the precise aetiology of PD is incomplete, it is clear that age, genetic predisposition and environmental stressors increase the risk. At the cellular level, oxidative stress, chronic neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and aberrant protein aggregation have been implicated as contributing factors. These detrimental processes are counteracted by elaborate networks of cellular defence mechanisms, one of which is orchestrated by transcription factor nuclear factor-erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2; gene name NFE2L2). A wealth of preclinical evidence suggests that Nrf2 activation is beneficial in cellular and animal models of PD. In this review, we summarise the current understanding of mitochondrial dysfunction in PD, the role of Nrf2 in mitochondrial function and explore the potential of Nrf2 as a therapeutic target for mitochondrial dysfunction in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Bento-Pereira
- Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Albena T Dinkova-Kostova
- Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK.,Departments of Medicine and Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Abstract
The KEAP1-NRF2 pathway is the principal protective response to oxidative and electrophilic stresses. Under homeostatic conditions, KEAP1 forms part of an E3 ubiquitin ligase, which tightly regulates the activity of the transcription factor NRF2 by targeting it for ubiquitination and proteasome-dependent degradation. In response to stress, an intricate molecular mechanism facilitated by sensor cysteines within KEAP1 allows NRF2 to escape ubiquitination, accumulate within the cell, and translocate to the nucleus, where it can promote its antioxidant transcription program. Recent advances have revealed that KEAP1 contains multiple stress sensors and inactivation modalities, which together allow diverse cellular inputs, from oxidative stress and cellular metabolites to dysregulated autophagy, to regulate NRF2 activity. This integration of the KEAP1-NRF2 system into multiple cellular signaling and metabolic pathways places NRF2 activation as a critical regulatory node in many disease phenotypes and suggests that the pharmaceutical modulation of NRF2's cytoprotective activity will be beneficial for human health in a broad range of noncommunicable diseases.
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Cores Á, Piquero M, Villacampa M, León R, Menéndez JC. NRF2 Regulation Processes as a Source of Potential Drug Targets against Neurodegenerative Diseases. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E904. [PMID: 32545924 PMCID: PMC7356958 DOI: 10.3390/biom10060904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
NRF2 acts by controlling gene expression, being the master regulator of the Phase II antioxidant response, and also being key to the control of neuroinflammation. NRF2 activity is regulated at several levels, including protein degradation by the proteasome, transcription, and post-transcription. The purpose of this review is to offer a concise and critical overview of the main mechanisms of NRF2 regulation and their actual or potential use as targets for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel Cores
- Unidad de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.C.); (M.P.); (M.V.)
| | - Marta Piquero
- Unidad de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.C.); (M.P.); (M.V.)
| | - Mercedes Villacampa
- Unidad de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.C.); (M.P.); (M.V.)
| | - Rafael León
- Instituto Teófilo Hernando y Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Servicio de Farmacología Clínica, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - J. Carlos Menéndez
- Unidad de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.C.); (M.P.); (M.V.)
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Dayalan Naidu S, Dinkova-Kostova AT. KEAP1, a cysteine-based sensor and a drug target for the prevention and treatment of chronic disease. Open Biol 2020; 10:200105. [PMID: 32574549 PMCID: PMC7333886 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Redox imbalance and persistent inflammation are the underlying causes of most chronic diseases. Mammalian cells have evolved elaborate mechanisms for restoring redox homeostasis and resolving acute inflammatory responses. One prominent mechanism is that of inducing the expression of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and other cytoprotective proteins, while also suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, through the activation of transcription factor nuclear factor-erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (NRF2). At homeostatic conditions, NRF2 is a short-lived protein, which avidly binds to Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1). KEAP1 functions as (i) a substrate adaptor for a Cullin 3 (CUL3)-based E3 ubiquitin ligase that targets NRF2 for ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation, and (ii) a cysteine-based sensor for a myriad of physiological and pharmacological NRF2 activators. Here, we review the intricate molecular mechanisms by which KEAP1 senses electrophiles and oxidants. Chemical modification of specific cysteine sensors of KEAP1 results in loss of NRF2-repressor function and alterations in the expression of NRF2-target genes that encode large networks of diverse proteins, which collectively restore redox balance and resolve inflammation, thus ensuring a comprehensive cytoprotection. We focus on the cyclic cyanoenones, the most potent NRF2 activators, some of which are currently in clinical trials for various pathologies characterized by redox imbalance and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharadha Dayalan Naidu
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Albena T. Dinkova-Kostova
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences and Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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40
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Wang L, Cai X, Shi M, Xue L, Kuang S, Xu R, Qi W, Li Y, Ma X, Zhang R, Hong F, Ye H, Chen L. Identification and optimization of piperine analogues as neuroprotective agents for the treatment of Parkinson's disease via the activation of Nrf2/keap1 pathway. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 199:112385. [PMID: 32402936 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a slowly progressive and complex neurodegenerative disorder. Up to date, there are no approved drugs that could slow or reverse the neurodegenerative process of PD. Here, we reported the synthesis of series of piperine analogues and the evaluation of their neuroprotective effects against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) induced damage in the neuron-like PC12 cells. Among these analogues, 3b exhibited the most potent protection effect and its underlying mechanism was further investigated. Further results indicated that the ROS scavenging and cytoprotection effect of 3b might be related to the Nrf2 activation and upregulation of related phase II antioxidant enzymes, such as HO-1 and NQO1. In in vivo study, oral administration (100 mg/kg) of 3b significantly attenuated PD-associated behavioral deficits in a 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced mouse model of PD and protected tyrosine hydroxylase-immunopositive dopaminergic neurons. Our results provided evidence that 3b might be a promising candidate for Parkinson's disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaoying Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Mingsong Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Linlin Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Shuang Kuang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ruiling Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Wenyan Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ruijia Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Feng Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Haoyu Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Lijuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy/Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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41
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Bakula D, Scheibye-Knudsen M. MitophAging: Mitophagy in Aging and Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:239. [PMID: 32373609 PMCID: PMC7179682 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Maintaining mitochondrial health is emerging as a keystone in aging and associated diseases. The selective degradation of mitochondria by mitophagy is of particular importance in keeping a pristine mitochondrial pool. Indeed, inherited monogenic diseases with defects in mitophagy display complex multisystem pathologies but particularly progressive neurodegeneration. Fortunately, therapies are being developed that target mitophagy allowing new hope for treatments for previously incurable diseases. Herein, we describe mitophagy and associated diseases, coin the term mitophaging and describe new small molecule interventions that target different steps in the mitophagic pathway. Consequently, several age-associated diseases may be treated by targeting mitophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Bakula
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Scheibye-Knudsen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Abstract
Activation of the transcription factor Nrf2 via the Keap1-Nrf2-ARE signaling system regulates the transcription and subsequent expression of cellular cytoprotective proteins and plays a crucial role in preventing pathological conditions exacerbated by the overproduction of oxidative stress. In addition to electrophilic modulators, direct non-covalent inhibitors that interrupt the Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction (PPI) leading to Nrf2 activation have attracted a great deal of attention as potential preventive and therapeutic agents for oxidative stress-related diseases. Structural studies of Keap1-binding ligands, development of biochemical and cellular assays, and new structure-based design approaches have facilitated the discovery of small molecule PPI inhibitors. This perspective reviews the Keap1-Nrf2-ARE system, its physiological functions, and the recent progress in the discovery and the potential applications of direct inhibitors of Keap1-Nrf2 PPI.
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ZHAN FL, GAO SY, XIE YD, ZHANG JM, LI Y, LIU N. Applications of Click Chemistry Reaction for Proteomics Analysis. CHINESE JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/s1872-2040(20)60007-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Transcriptional activation of antioxidant gene expression by Nrf2 protects against mitochondrial dysfunction and neuronal death associated with acute and chronic neurodegeneration. Exp Neurol 2020; 328:113247. [PMID: 32061629 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2020.113247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria are both a primary source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and a sensitive target of oxidative stress; damage to mitochondria can result in bioenergetic dysfunction and both necrotic and apoptotic cell death. These relationships between mitochondria and cell death are particularly strong in both acute and chronic neurodegenerative disorders. ROS levels are affected by both the production of superoxide and its toxic metabolites and by antioxidant defense mechanisms. Mitochondrial antioxidant activities include superoxide dismutase 2, glutathione peroxidase and reductase, and intramitochondrial glutathione. When intracellular conditions disrupt the homeostatic balance between ROS production and detoxification, a net increase in ROS and an oxidized shift in cellular redox state ensues. Cells respond to this imbalance by increasing the expression of genes that code for proteins that protect against oxidative stress and inhibit cytotoxic oxidation of proteins, DNA, and lipids. If, however, the genomic response to mitochondrial oxidative stress is insufficient to maintain homeostasis, mitochondrial bioenergetic dysfunction and release of pro-apoptotic mitochondrial proteins into the cytosol initiate a variety of cell death pathways, ultimately resulting in potentially lethal damage to vital organs, including the brain. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a translational activating protein that enters the nucleus in response to oxidative stress, resulting in increased expression of numerous cytoprotective genes, including genes coding for mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial antioxidant proteins. Many experimental and some FDA-approved drugs promote this process. Since mitochondria are targets of ROS, it follows that protection against mitochondrial oxidative stress by the Nrf2 pathway of gene expression contributes to neuroprotection by these drugs. This document reviews the evidence that Nrf2 activation increases mitochondrial antioxidants, thereby protecting mitochondria from dysfunction and protecting neural cells from damage and death. New experimental results are provided demonstrating that post-ischemic administration of the Nrf2 activator sulforaphane protects against hippocampal neuronal death and neurologic injury in a clinically-relevant animal model of cardiac arrest and resuscitation.
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Li LH, Peng WN, Deng Y, Li JJ, Tian XR. Action of trichostatin A on Alzheimer's disease-like pathological changes in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Neural Regen Res 2020; 15:293-301. [PMID: 31552902 PMCID: PMC6905323 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.265564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The histone deacetylase inhibitor, trichostatin A, is used to treat Alzheimer's disease and can improve learning and memory but its underlying mechanism of action is unknown. To determine whether the therapeutic effect of trichostatin A on Alzheimer's disease is associated with the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and Kelch-like epichlorohydrin-related protein-1 (Keap1) signaling pathway, amyloid β-peptide 25-35 (Aβ25-35) was used to induce Alzheimer's disease-like pathological changes in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Cells were then treated with trichostatin A. The effects of trichostatin A on the expression of Keap1 and Nrf2 were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blot assays and immunofluorescence. Total antioxidant capacity and autophagy activity were evaluated by total antioxidant capacity assay kit and light chain 3-I/II levels, respectively. We found that trichostatin A increased cell viability and Nrf2 expression, and decreased Keap1 expression in SH-SY5Y cells. Furthermore, trichostatin A increased the expression of Nrf2-related target genes, such as superoxide dismutase, NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 and glutathione S-transferase, thereby increasing the total antioxidant capacity of SH-SY5Y cells and inhibiting amyloid β-peptide-induced autophagy. Knockdown of Keap1 in SH-SY5Y cells further increased trichostatin A-induced Nrf2 expression. These results indicate that the therapeutic effect of trichostatin A on Alzheimer's disease is associated with the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway. The mechanism for this action may be that trichostatin A increases cell viability and the antioxidant capacity of SH-SY5Y cells by alleviating Keap1-mediated inhibition Nrf2 signaling, thereby alleviating amyloid β-peptide-induced cell damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Hua Li
- College of Medicine, Jishou University, Jishou, Hunan Province, China
| | - Wen-Na Peng
- Department of Rehabilitation, Second Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yu Deng
- College of Medicine, Jishou University, Jishou, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jing-Jing Li
- College of Medicine, Jishou University, Jishou, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xiang-Rong Tian
- College of Biology and Environmental Science, Jishou University, Jishou, Hunan Province, China
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Necardo C, Alfano AI, Del Grosso E, Pelliccia S, Galli U, Novellino E, Meneghetti F, Giustiniano M, Tron GC. Aryl Azides as Forgotten Electrophiles in the Van Leusen Reaction: A Multicomponent Transformation Affording 4-Tosyl-1-arylimidazoles. J Org Chem 2019; 84:16299-16307. [PMID: 31779310 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.9b02546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Considering aryl azides as electrophilic partners for the TosMIC mediated Van Leusen reaction, a novel multicomponent synthesis of 4-tosyl-1-arylimidazoles is reported. In this transformation, two molecules of TosMIC participate in the reaction mechanism in two different ways, with the second molecule undergoing a novel type of fragmentation resulting in the incorporation of a C-H into the final product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Necardo
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco , Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro" , Largo Donegani 2 , 28100 Novara , Italy
| | - Antonella Ilenia Alfano
- Dipartimento di Farmacia , Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , 80131 Napoli , Italy
| | - Erika Del Grosso
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco , Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro" , Largo Donegani 2 , 28100 Novara , Italy
| | - Sveva Pelliccia
- Dipartimento di Farmacia , Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , 80131 Napoli , Italy
| | - Ubaldina Galli
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco , Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro" , Largo Donegani 2 , 28100 Novara , Italy
| | - Ettore Novellino
- Dipartimento di Farmacia , Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , 80131 Napoli , Italy
| | - Fiorella Meneghetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche , Università degli Studi di Milano , via L. Mangiagalli 25 , 20133 Milano , Italy
| | - Mariateresa Giustiniano
- Dipartimento di Farmacia , Università degli Studi di Napoli "Federico II" , via D. Montesano 49 , 80131 Napoli , Italy
| | - Gian Cesare Tron
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco , Università del Piemonte Orientale "A. Avogadro" , Largo Donegani 2 , 28100 Novara , Italy
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Jabbarzadeh Kaboli P, Afzalipour Khoshkbejari M, Mohammadi M, Abiri A, Mokhtarian R, Vazifemand R, Amanollahi S, Yazdi Sani S, Li M, Zhao Y, Wu X, Shen J, Cho CH, Xiao Z. Targets and mechanisms of sulforaphane derivatives obtained from cruciferous plants with special focus on breast cancer - contradictory effects and future perspectives. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 121:109635. [PMID: 31739165 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women. Therefore, discovery of new and effective drugs with fewer side effects is necessary to treat it. Sulforaphane (SFN) is an organosulfur compound obtained from cruciferous plants, such as broccoli and mustard, and it has the potential to treat breast cancer. Hence, it is vital to find out how SFN targets certain genes and cellular pathways in treating breast cancer. In this review, molecular targets and cellular pathways of SFN are described. Studies have shown SFN inhibits cell proliferation, causes apoptosis, stops cell cycle and has anti-oxidant activities. Increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) produces oxidative stress, activates inflammatory transcription factors, and these result in inflammation leading to cancer. Increasing anti-oxidant potential of cells and discovering new targets to reduce ROS creation reduces oxidative stress and it eventually reduces cancer risks. In short, SFN effectively affects histone deacetylases involved in chromatin remodeling, gene expression, and Nrf2 anti-oxidant signaling. This review points to the potential of SFN to treat breast cancer as well as the importance of other new cruciferous compounds, derived from and isolated from mustard, to target Keap1 and Akt, two key regulators of cellular homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parham Jabbarzadeh Kaboli
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China; Drug Discovery Research Group, Parham Academy of Biomedical Sciences, The Heritage B-16-10, Selangor, 43300, Malaysia.
| | | | - Mahsa Mohammadi
- Department of Chemistry, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ardavan Abiri
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Roya Mokhtarian
- Drug Discovery Research Group, Parham Academy of Biomedical Sciences, The Heritage B-16-10, Selangor, 43300, Malaysia
| | - Reza Vazifemand
- Laboratory of Virology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang, Selangor, 43400, Malaysia
| | - Shima Amanollahi
- Drug Discovery Research Group, Parham Academy of Biomedical Sciences, The Heritage B-16-10, Selangor, 43300, Malaysia; School of Mathematical, Physical, and Natural Sciences, University of Florence, Firenze, 50134, Italy
| | - Shaghayegh Yazdi Sani
- Drug Discovery Research Group, Parham Academy of Biomedical Sciences, The Heritage B-16-10, Selangor, 43300, Malaysia
| | - Mingxing Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yueshui Zhao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xu Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Jing Shen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Chi Hin Cho
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Zhangang Xiao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China; South Sichuan Institution for Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, PR China.
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48
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Investigation of Molecular Details of Keap1-Nrf2 Inhibitors Using Molecular Dynamics and Umbrella Sampling Techniques. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24224085. [PMID: 31726716 PMCID: PMC6891428 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24224085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigate the atomistic details of Keap1-Nrf2 inhibitors by in-depth modeling techniques, including molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and the path-based free energy method of umbrella sampling (US). The protein–protein interaction (PPI) of Keap1-Nrf2 is implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases like cancer, diabetes, and cardiomyopathy. A better understanding of the five sub-pocket binding sites for Nrf2 (ETGE and DLG motifs) inside the Kelch domain would expedite the inhibitor design process. We selected four protein–ligand complexes with distinct co-crystal ligands and binding occupancies inside the Nrf2 binding site. We performed 100 ns of MD simulation for each complex and analyzed the trajectories. From the results, it is evident that one ligand (1VV) has flipped inside the binding pocket, whereas the remaining three were stable. We found that Coulombic (Arg483, Arg415, Ser363, Ser508, and Ser602) and Lennard–Jones (Tyr525, Tyr334, and Tyr572) interactions played a significant role in complex stability. The obtained binding free energy values from US simulations were consistent with the potencies of simulated ligands. US simulation highlight the importance of basic and aromatic residues in the binding pocket. A detailed description of the dissociation process brings valuable insight into the interaction of the four selected protein–ligand complexes, which could help in the future to design more potent PPI inhibitors.
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Li Q, Xing S, Chen Y, Liao Q, Li Q, Liu Y, He S, Feng F, Chen Y, Zhang J, Liu W, Guo Q, Sun Y, Sun H. Reasonably activating Nrf2: A long-term, effective and controllable strategy for neurodegenerative diseases. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 185:111862. [PMID: 31735576 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.111862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are a variety of debilitating and fatal disorder in central nervous system (CNS). Besides targeting neuronal activity by influencing neurotransmitters or their corresponding receptors, modulating the underlying processes that lead to cell death, such as oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, should also be emphasized as an assistant strategy for neurodegeneration therapy. Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) has been closely verified to be related to anti-inflammation and oxidative stress, rationally regulating its belonging pathway and activating Nrf2 is emphasized to be a potential treatment approach. There have existed multiple Nrf2 activators with different mechanisms and diverse structures, but those applied for neuro-disorders are still limited. On the basis of research arrangement and compound summary, we put forward the limitations of existing Nrf2 activators for neurodegenerative diseases and their future developing directions in enhancing the blood-brain barrier permeability to make Nrf2 activators function in CNS and designing Nrf2-based multi-target-directed ligands to affect multiple nodes in pathology of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Shuaishuai Xing
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Qinghong Liao
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Qihang Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Siyu He
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Feng Feng
- Jiangsu Food and Pharmaceutical Science College, No.4 Meicheng Road, Huai'an, 223003, PR China
| | - Yao Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, PR China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China
| | - Wenyuan Liu
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Drug Quality Control and Pharmacovigilance, Ministry of Education, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Qinglong Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, PR China
| | - Yuan Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, 95817, USA
| | - Haopeng Sun
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, PR China; Jiangsu Food and Pharmaceutical Science College, No.4 Meicheng Road, Huai'an, 223003, PR China.
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50
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Liu P, Tian W, Tao S, Tillotson J, Wijeratne EMK, Gunatilaka AAL, Zhang DD, Chapman E. Non-covalent NRF2 Activation Confers Greater Cellular Protection than Covalent Activation. Cell Chem Biol 2019; 26:1427-1435.e5. [PMID: 31402317 PMCID: PMC6800637 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2019.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor NRF2 confers cellular protection by maintaining cellular redox homeostasis and proteostasis. Basal NRF2 levels are normally low due to KEAP1-mediated ubiquitylation and subsequent proteasomal degradation. KEAP1, a substrate adaptor protein of a KEAP1-CUL3-RBX1 E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, contains a critical cysteine (C151) that is modified by electrophiles or oxidants, resulting in inactivation of the E3 ligase and inhibition of NRF2 degradation. Currently, nearly all NRF2 inducers are electrophilic molecules that possess unwanted off-target effects due to their reactive nature. Here, we report a group of NRF2 inducers, ent-kaurane diterpenoid geopyxins, with and without C151 reactive electrophilic moieties. Among 16 geopyxins, geopyxin F, a non-electrophilic NRF2 activator, showed enhanced cellular protection relative to an electrophilic NRF2 activator, geopyxin C. To our knowledge, this is the first detailed structure-activity relationship study of covalent versus non-covalent NRF2 activators, showing the promise of non-covalent NRF2 activators as potential therapeutic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721-0207, USA
| | - Wang Tian
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721-0207, USA
| | - Shasha Tao
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721-0207, USA
| | - Joseph Tillotson
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721-0207, USA
| | - E M Kithsiri Wijeratne
- Natural Products Center, School of Natural Resources and the Environment, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85706-6800, USA
| | - A A Leslie Gunatilaka
- Natural Products Center, School of Natural Resources and the Environment, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85706-6800, USA
| | - Donna D Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721-0207, USA.
| | - Eli Chapman
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721-0207, USA.
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