1
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Wei D, Cai J, Qin F, Zhou Q, Xiong W, Xu C, Li C, Wu H. Structure-activity relationship of dual inhibitors containing maleimide and imidazole motifs against glutaminyl cyclase and glycogen synthase kinase-3β. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2024; 110:129851. [PMID: 38906336 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2024.129851] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major cause of dementia and one of the most common chronic diseases affecting the aging population. Because AD is considered a public health priority, there is a critical need to discover novel and effective agents for the treatment of this condition. In view of the known contribution of up-regulated glutaminyl cyclase (QC) and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) to the initiation of AD, we previously evaluated a series of dual inhibitors containing maleimide and imidazole motifs as potential anti-AD agents. Here, we assessed another series of hybrids containing maleimide and imidazole motifs to gain an in-depth understanding of the structure-activity relationship (SAR). Based on the primary screening, the introduction of 5-methyl imidazole at one side of the molecule did not enhance the QC-specific inhibitory activity of these hybrids (2, IC50 = 1.22 μM), although the potency was increased by 2' substitution on the maleimide motif at the other side of the molecule. Interestingly, compounds containing 5-methyl imidazole exhibited stronger GSK-3β-specific inhibitory activity (2, IC50 = 0.0021 μM), and the electron-withdrawing group and 2' and 3' substitution were favorable. Further investigation of substitutions on the maleimide motif in compounds 14-35 revealed that QC-specific inhibition in the presence of piperidine was improved by introduction of a methoxy group (R2). Increasing the linker length and introduction of a methoxy group (R2) also increased the GSK-3β-specific inhibitory potency. These findings were further confirmed by molecular docking analysis of 33 and 24 with QC and GSK-3β. Overall, these hybrids exhibited enhanced inhibitory potency against both QC and GSK-3β, highlighting an important strategy for improving the potency of hybrids as dual-targeting anti-AD agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingjun Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jiaxin Cai
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Feixia Qin
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Qingqing Zhou
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Chenshu Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Chenyang Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Haiqiang Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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2
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Ouyang N, Yang C, Li X, Zheng Z, Xu Y, Wang Y, Xiong W, Wu H. Development of lactoferrin-coated multifunctional copolymer micelles to cross the blood-brain barrier. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024; 14:773-787. [PMID: 37721695 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01432-6] [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] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) prevents pathogens and toxins in the bloodstream from reaching the brain, but also inhibits the delivery of agents intended to treat central nervous system disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this study, we prepared and evaluated a novel nano-delivery vehicle system composed of lactoferrin-conjugated (Lf-PIC@Se) micelles. We used a COOH-PEG-PAsp-PV@Se synthesis-based method to prepare the micelles, which involved self-assembly followed by EDC-NHS coupling. Using glutaminyl cyclase inhibitor 8 as a model encapsulated chemical, Lf-PIC@Se micelles achieved a good loading capacity. In vitro analysis demonstrated that Lf-PIC@Se/8 micelles were stable in both neutral and acidic pH solutions in the presence or absence of H2O2, and confirmed their biosafety and compatibility in PC12 and bEND.3 cells. Notably, the cell uptake of Lf-PIC@Se/C6 micelles was much higher than that of PIC@Se micelles, and occurred through LfR-mediated endocytosis. The presence of Se meant that Lf-PIC@Se micelles acted as ROS scavengers in PC12 cells under H2O2-induced oxidative stress, which inhibited oxidative damage and increased mitochondrial membrane potential. Hemolysis assays further demonstrated that Lf-PIC@Se represent a biocompatible carrier. Finally, in vivo experiments in mice suggested that Lf-PIC@Se micelles successfully crossed the BBB, confirming their potential as vehicles for drug delivery when treating AD and other central nervous system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Ouyang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chunhua Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xia Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhenting Zheng
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuanyuan Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yinan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Haiqiang Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, 518055, Shenzhen, China.
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3
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Zhou Q, Cai J, Qin F, Liu J, Li C, Xiong W, Wang Y, Xu C, Wu H. Discovery of potential scaffolds for glutaminyl cyclase inhibitors: Virtual screening, synthesis, and evaluation. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 97:117542. [PMID: 38104495 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117542] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Glutaminyl cyclase (QC) plays a crucial role in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD), thus inhibition of QC may be a promising strategy for the treatment of early AD. Therefore, QC inhibitors with novel chemical scaffolds may contribute to the development of additional anti-AD agents. We conducted a virtual screening of 3 million compounds from the Chemdiv and Enamine databases, to discover potential scaffolds for QC inhibitors. Three scaffolds, 120974, 147706, and 141449, were selected from this structure-based virtual screening through a combination of pharmacophore modeling, a receptor-ligand pharmacophore model, and the GALAHAD model, and furtherly filtered by chelation with zinc ion and docking properties. Consequently, three compounds, 1, 2, and 3, were designed and synthesized based on these three scaffolds, respectively. The IC50 of compounds 1 and 3 against QC were 14.19 ± 4.21 and 4.34 ± 0.35 μM, respectively. Our results indicate that the new scaffolds selected using a virtual screening process exhibit potential as novel QC inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Zhou
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jiaxin Cai
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Feixia Qin
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jiao Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Chenyang Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yinan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Chenshu Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Haiqiang Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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4
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Coimbra JRM, Moreira PI, Santos AE, Salvador JAR. Therapeutic potential of glutaminyl cyclases: Current status and emerging trends. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103644. [PMID: 37244566 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103644] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Glutaminyl cyclase (QC) activity has been identified as a key effector in distinct biological processes. Human glutaminyl-peptide cyclotransferase (QPCT) and glutaminyl-peptide cyclotransferase-like (QPCTL) are considered attractive therapeutic targets in many human disorders, such as neurodegenerative diseases, and a range of inflammatory conditions, as well as for cancer immunotherapy, because of their capacity to modulate cancer immune checkpoint proteins. In this review, we explore the biological functions and structures of QPCT/L enzymes and highlight their therapeutic relevance. We also summarize recent developments in the discovery of small-molecule inhibitors targeting these enzymes, including an overview of preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judite R M Coimbra
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paula I Moreira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Laboratory of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Armanda E Santos
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Jorge A R Salvador
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.
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5
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Chen D, Chen Q, Qin X, Tong P, Peng L, Zhang T, Xia C. Development and evolution of human glutaminyl cyclase inhibitors (QCIs): an alternative promising approach for disease-modifying treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1209863. [PMID: 37600512 PMCID: PMC10435661 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1209863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Human glutaminyl cyclase (hQC) is drawing considerable attention and emerging as a potential druggable target for Alzheimer's disease (AD) due to its close involvement in the pathology of AD via the post-translational pyroglutamate modification of amyloid-β. A recent phase 2a study has shown promising early evidence of efficacy for AD with a competitive benzimidazole-based QC inhibitor, PQ912, which also demonstrated favorable safety profiles. This finding has sparked new hope for the treatment of AD. In this review, we briefly summarize the discovery and evolution of hQC inhibitors, with a particular interest in classic Zinc binding group (ZBG)-containing chemicals reported in recent years. Additionally, we highlight several high-potency inhibitors and discuss new trends and challenges in the development of QC inhibitors as an alternative and promising disease-modifying therapy for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daoyuan Chen
- School of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Qingxiu Chen
- School of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Xiaofei Qin
- School of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Peipei Tong
- School of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Liping Peng
- School of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Translational Research in Cancer and Neurodegenerative Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institute of Basic Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Chunli Xia
- School of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, China
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6
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Guo R, Cui M, Li X, Wu M, Xu F, Zhang Y, Wang C, Feng P, Wang J, Huo S, Luo Z, Xing R, Gu J, Shi X, Liu Y, Wang L. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of pyrrolopyrimidine derivatives as novel and selective positive modulator of the small conductance Ca 2+-activated K + channels. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 254:115353. [PMID: 37068385 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
The type 2 small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (SK2) have been considered as one of the most promising therapeutic targets for spinocerebellar ataxias type 2 (SCA2) by playing a critical role in the control of normal purkinje cells (PCs) pacemaking. Herein, a novel series of pyrrolopyrimidine derivatives were designed and synthesized from the lead compound NS13001 as subtype-selective modulators of SK channels. Among them, the halogen-substituted compound 12b (EC50 = 0.34 ± 0.044 μM) was identified with a ∼5.4-fold higher potency on potentiating SK2-a channels at submicromolar concentrations as compared to NS13001 (EC50 = 1.83 ± 0.50 μM). Furthermore, compound 12b exhibited selectivity on SK2-a/SK3 subtype by displaying 93.33 ± 3.26% efficacies on SK2-a channels, and 84.54% ± 7.49% on SK3 channels. In addition, compound 12b demonstrated the potential to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) with suitable pharmacokinetic properties and low cytotoxicity. Molecular docking study also unveiled the binding interactions of compound 12b with SK2-CaM protein complex. Overall, the novel pyrrolopyrimidines provide an insightful guidance for future structural optimization of SK channel agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Guo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Miao Cui
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Mengqi Wu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Fei Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Yining Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Chun Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Penglei Feng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Jianchao Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Sijia Huo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Zijun Luo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Ruijuan Xing
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Jianmin Gu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Xiaowei Shi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China; Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Environment and Human Health, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China; Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Research and Evaluation, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.
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7
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Xie Y, Chen C, Lin S, Yu X, Ye S, Chen X, Ouyang N, Xiong W, Li C, Xu C, Song G, Wu H. Design, synthesis and anti-AD effects of dual inhibitor targeting glutaminyl cyclase/GSK-3β. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 248:115089. [PMID: 36638710 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), multifactorial disease, is recognized as one of the most common forms of dementia, and the efficacy of anti-AD drugs is limited clinically. Up-regulated glutaminyl cyclase (QC) and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) have been identified as two critical elements involved in AD recently. Here, a series of novel chemicals containing maleimide and imidazole motif were designed and synthesized as dual inhibitors targeting QC and GSK-3β. Based on primary screening, compound 2 (2.26 μM), 5 (2.37 μM), 8 (1.34 μM), 21 (2.44 μM), 25 (0.36 μM), 27 (1.76 μM), 28 (1.04 μM), 33 (2.08 μM) and 34 (2.33 μM) exhibited notable human QC (hQC) inhibitory potency, while compound 1 (0.014 μM), 7 (0.04 μM), 8 (0.057 μM), 19 (0.034 μM), 24 (0.014 μM), 32 (0.032 μM), 38 (0.051 μM), 39 (0.044 μM), 44 (0.048 μM), 47 (0.011 μM), 49 (0.021 μM) and so on showed remarkable GSK-3β inhibitory activities. And as expected, these chemicals possessed significant inhibitory potency on both hQC and GSK-3β, such as compound 1 (2.80 and 0.014 μM), 8 (1.34 and 0.057 μM), 25 (0.36 and 0.15 μM), 27 (1.76 and 0.069 μM), 28 (1.04 and 0.090 μM), 33 (2.08 and 0.19 μM), 34 (2.33 and 0.11 μM), 35 (2.55 and 0.14 μM), 36 (2.34 and 0.11 μM), etc. Subsequent in vivo studies demonstrated that compound 8 attenuated cognitive deficits and decreased the anxiety-like behavior in 3 × Tg-AD mice. The treatment decreased both pE-Aβ and Aβ accumulation by inhibiting the activity of QC, and decreased the hyperphosphorylation of Tau by reducing the levels of GSK-3β in the brains of AD mice. Results obtained in this research suggested that these novel compounds could be supposed as potential anti-AD agents targeting QC and GSK-3β.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazhou Xie
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518055, China; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Ecology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Shujing Lin
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Ecology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Xi Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Shuixian Ye
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Xiaojie Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Na Ouyang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Chenyang Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Chenshu Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Guoli Song
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Ecology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Haiqiang Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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8
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Tsai KC, Zhang YX, Kao HY, Fung KM, Tseng TS. Pharmacophore-driven identification of human glutaminyl cyclase inhibitors from foods, plants and herbs unveils the bioactive property and potential of Azaleatin in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Food Funct 2022; 13:12632-12647. [PMID: 36416361 DOI: 10.1039/d2fo02507h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of disabilities in old age and a rapidly growing condition in the elderly population. AD brings significant burden and has a devastating impact on public health, society and the global economy. Thus, developing new therapeutics to combat AD is imperative. Human glutaminyl cyclase (hQC), which catalyzes the formation of neurotoxic pyroglutamate (pE)-modified β-amyloid (Aβ) peptides, is linked to the amyloidogenic process that leads to the initiation of AD. Hence, hQC is an essential target for developing anti-AD therapeutics. Here, we systematically screened and identified hQC inhibitors from natural products by pharmacophore-driven inhibitor screening coupled with biochemical and biophysical examinations. We employed receptor-ligand pharmacophore generation to build pharmacophore models and Phar-MERGE and Phar-SEN for inhibitor screening through ligand-pharmacophore mapping. About 11 and 24 hits identified from the Natural Product and Traditional Chinese Medicine databases, respectively, showed diverse hQC inhibitory abilities. Importantly, the inhibitors TCM1 (Azaleatin; IC50 = 1.1 μM) and TCM2 (Quercetin; IC50 = 4.3 μM) found in foods and plants exhibited strong inhibitory potency against hQC. Furthermore, the binding affinity and molecular interactions were analyzed by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and molecular modeling/simulations to explore the possible modes of action of Azaleatin and Quercetin. Our study successfully screened and characterized the foundational biochemical and biophysical properties of Azaleatin and Quercetin toward targeting hQC, unveiling their bioactive potential in the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keng-Chang Tsai
- National Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Ph.D. Program in Medical Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Xuan Zhang
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Hsiang-Yun Kao
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Kit-Man Fung
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan. .,Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Sheng Tseng
- Institute of Molecular Biology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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9
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Discovery of potent indazole-based human glutaminyl cyclase (QC) inhibitors as Anti-Alzheimer's disease agents. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 244:114837. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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10
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Upregulation of Glutaminyl Cyclase Contributes to ERS-Induced Apoptosis in PC12 Cells. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:4154697. [PMID: 36479306 PMCID: PMC9722295 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4154697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Glutaminyl cyclase (QC) is responsible for converting the N-terminal glutaminyl and glutamyl of the proteins into pyroglutamate (pE) through cyclization. It has been confirmed that QC catalyzes the formation of neurotoxic pE-modified Aβ in the brain of AD patients. But the effects of upregulated QC in diverse diseases have not been much clear until recently. Here, RNA sequencing was applied to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in PC12 cells with QC overexpressing or knockdown. A total of 697 DEGs were identified in QC overexpressing cells while only 77 in QC knockdown cells. Multiple bioinformatic approaches revealed that the DEGs in QC overexpressing group were enriched in endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) related signaling pathways. The gene expression patterns of 23 DEGs were confirmed by RT-qPCR, in which the genes related to ERS showed the highest consistency. We also revealed the protein levels of GRP78, PERK, CHOP, and PARP-1, and caspase family was significantly upregulated by overexpressing QC. Moreover, overexpressing QC significantly increased apoptosis of PC12 cells in a time dependent manner. However, no significant alteration was observed in QC knockdown cells. Therefore, our study indicated that upregulated QC could induce ERS and apoptosis, which consequently trigger diseases by catalyzing the generation of pE-modified mediators.
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11
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Kumari S, Maddeboina K, Bachu RD, Boddu SHS, Trippier PC, Tiwari AK. Pivotal role of nitrogen heterocycles in Alzheimer's disease drug discovery. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:103322. [PMID: 35868626 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a detrimental neurodegenerative disease that progressively worsens with time. Clinical options are limited and only provide symptomatic relief to AD patients. The search for effective anti-AD compounds is ongoing with a few already in Phase III clinical trials, yet to be approved. Heterocycles containing nitrogen are important to biological processes owing to their abundance in nature, their function as subunits of biological molecules and/or macromolecular structures, and their biological activities. The present review discusses previously used strategies, SAR, relevant in vitro and in vivo studies, and success stories of nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds in AD drug discovery. Also, we propose strategies for designing and developing novel potent anti-AD small molecules that can be used as treatments for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikha Kumari
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA.
| | - Krishnaiah Maddeboina
- Molecular Targeted Therapeutics Laboratory, Levine Cancer Institute/Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC 28204, USA
| | - Rinda Devi Bachu
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Sai H S Boddu
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, UAE; Center of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, P.O. Box 346, Ajman, UAE
| | - Paul C Trippier
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, UNMC Center for Drug Discovery, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Amit K Tiwari
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; Center of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, P.O. Box 346, Ajman, UAE; Department of Cancer Biology, College of Medicine and Life Sciences, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA.
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12
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Chaudhry F, Munir R, Ashraf M, Mehr-un-Nisa, Huma R, Malik N, Hussain S, Ali Munawar M, Ain Khan M. Exploring Facile Synthesis and Cholinesterase Inhibiting Potential of Heteroaryl Substituted Imidazole Derivatives for the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease. ARAB J CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arabjc.2022.104384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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13
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Park E, Song KH, Kim D, Lee M, Van Manh N, Kim H, Hong KB, Lee J, Song JY, Kang S. 2-Amino-1,3,4-thiadiazoles as Glutaminyl Cyclases Inhibitors Increase Phagocytosis through Modification of CD47-SIRPα Checkpoint. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:1459-1467. [PMID: 36105338 PMCID: PMC9465712 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.2c00256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutaminyl cyclases (QC, isoQC) convert N-terminal glutamine or glutamate into pyroglutamate (pGlu) on substrates. IsoQC has recently been demonstrated to promote pGlu formation on the N-terminus of CD47, the SIRPα binding site, contributing to the "don't eat me" cancer immune signaling of CD47-SIRPα. We developed new QC inhibitors by applying a structure-based optimization approach starting from fragments identified through library screening. Screening of metal binding fragments identified 5-(1H-benzimidazol-5-yl)-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-amine (9) as a potent fragment, and further modification provided 5-(1-(3-methoxy-4-(3-(piperidin-1-yl)propoxy)benzyl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-5-yl)-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-amine (22b) as a potent QC inhibitor. Treatment with 22b in A549 and H1975 lung cancer cells decreased the CD47/αhCD47-CC2C6 interaction, indicative of the CD47/SIRPα interaction, and enhanced the increased phagocytic activity of both THP-1 and U937 macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunsun Park
- College
of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Hee Song
- Division
of Radiation Biomedical Research, Korea
Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences, Seoul 01812, Republic of Korea
| | - Darong Kim
- New
Drug Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk
Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu 41061, Republic
of Korea
| | - Minyoung Lee
- Medifron
DBT, 517ho, JEI-Platz,
186, Gasan digital 1-ro, Geumcheon-gu, Seoul 08502, Republic of Korea
| | - Nguyen Van Manh
- College
of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Kim
- Medifron
DBT, 517ho, JEI-Platz,
186, Gasan digital 1-ro, Geumcheon-gu, Seoul 08502, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Bum Hong
- New
Drug Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk
Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu 41061, Republic
of Korea
| | - Jeewoo Lee
- College
of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jie-Young Song
- Division
of Radiation Biomedical Research, Korea
Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences, Seoul 01812, Republic of Korea
| | - Soosung Kang
- College
of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
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14
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Zhang Y, Wang Y, Zhao Z, Peng W, Wang P, Xu X, Zhao C. Glutaminyl cyclases, the potential targets of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 931:175178. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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15
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Li N, Xu M, Zhang L, Lei Z, Chen C, Zhang T, Chen L, Sun J. Discovery of Novel Celastrol-Imidazole Derivatives with Anticancer Activity In Vitro and In Vivo. J Med Chem 2022; 65:4578-4589. [PMID: 35238566 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
To discover celastrol (CEL) derivatives with enhanced Hsp90-Cdc37 inhibition, C-20-COOH was introduced with various substituted imidazoles, which might affect the Michael addition of CEL by nucleophilic attack. The most potent compound 9, which showed higher antiproliferation, covalent-binding ability, and Hsp90-Cdc37 inhibition than CEL, was selected from 28 new target compounds. Then, the binding sites and the docking mode of 9 to Hsp90 and Cdc37 were studied. Furthermore, the activity of 9 sharply decreased or even disappeared in the Hsp90- and/or Cdc37-overexpressing A549 cells, indicating that the activity was related to its combination with Hsp90 and Cdc37. Moreover, 9 could more effectively induce apoptosis and inhibit tumor growth than CEL in vivo. This study first found that imidazoles linked to C-20 of CEL might affect its Michael addition, which will provide support of CEL or even the other Michael acceptors for the development as antitumor agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Manyi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Lulu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhichao Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianyuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianbo Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
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16
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Dadkhah S, Malekzadeh M, Hassanzadeh F, Khodarahmi G, Asadi P, Rostami M. The art of design in azlactone–benzoxazinone chemistry, docking studies and in vitro cytotoxicity evaluation. Aust J Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1071/ch21275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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17
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Verma A, Kumar Waiker D, Bhardwaj B, Saraf P, Shrivastava SK. The molecular mechanism, targets, and novel molecules in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Bioorg Chem 2021; 119:105562. [PMID: 34952243 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.105562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurological illness that causes dementia mainly in the elderly. The challenging obstacles related to AD has freaked global healthcare system to encourage scientists in developing novel therapeutic startegies to overcome with the fatal disease. The current treatment therapy of AD provides only symptomatic relief and to some extent disease-modifying effects. The current approach for AD treatment involves designing of cholinergic inhibitors, Aβ disaggregation inducing agents, tau inhibitors and several antioxidants. Hence, extensive research on AD therapy urgently requires a deep understanding of its pathophysiology and exploration of various chemical scaffolds to design and develop a potential drug candidate for the treatment. Various issues linked between disease and therapy need to be considered such as BBB penetration capability, clinical failure and multifaceted pathophisiology requires a proper attention to develop a lead candidate. This review article covers all probable mechanisms including one of the recent areas for investigation i.e., lipid dyshomeostasis, pathogenic involvement of P. gingivalis and neurovascular dysfunction, recently reported molecules and drugs under clinical investigations and approved by FDA for AD treatment. Our summarized information on AD will attract the researchers to understand and explore current status and structural modifications of the recently reported heterocyclic derivatives in drug development for AD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash Verma
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, India
| | - Digambar Kumar Waiker
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, India
| | - Bhagwati Bhardwaj
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, India
| | - Poorvi Saraf
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, India
| | - Sushant K Shrivastava
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, India.
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18
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Tetrahydroimidazo[4,5- c]pyridine-Based Inhibitors of Porphyromonas gingivalis Glutaminyl Cyclase. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14121206. [PMID: 34959608 PMCID: PMC8709289 DOI: 10.3390/ph14121206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Periodontitis is a severe yet underestimated oral disease. Since it is linked to several systemic diseases, such as diabetes, artheriosclerosis, and even Alzheimer’s disease, growing interest in treating periodontitis has emerged recently. The major cause of periodontitis is a shift in the oral microbiome. A keystone pathogen that is associated with this shift is Porphyromonas gingivalis. Hence, targeting P. gingivalis came into focus of drug discovery for the development of novel antiinfective compounds. Among others, glutaminyl cyclases (QCs) of oral pathogens might be promising drug targets. Here, we report the discovery and structure–activity relationship of a novel class of P. gingivalis QC inhibitors according to a tetrahydroimidazo[4,5-c]pyridine scaffold. Some compounds exhibited activity in the lower nanomolar range and thus were further characterized with regard to their selectivity and toxicity.
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19
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Van Manh N, Hoang VH, Ngo VTH, Ann J, Jang TH, Ha JH, Song JY, Ha HJ, Kim H, Kim YH, Lee J, Lee J. Discovery of highly potent human glutaminyl cyclase (QC) inhibitors as anti-Alzheimer's agents by the combination of pharmacophore-based and structure-based design. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 226:113819. [PMID: 34536669 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The inhibition of glutaminyl cyclase (QC) may provide a promising strategy for the treatment of early Alzheimer's disease (AD) by reducing the amount of the toxic pyroform of β-amyloid (AβΝ3pE) in the brains of AD patients. In this work, we identified potent QC inhibitors with subnanomolar IC50 values that were up to 290-fold higher than that of PQ912, which is currently being tested in Phase II clinical trials. Among the tested compounds, the cyclopentylmethyl derivative (214) exhibited the most potent in vitro activity (IC50 = 0.1 nM), while benzimidazole (227) showed the most promising in vivo efficacy, selectivity and druggable profile. 227 significantly reduced the concentration of pyroform Aβ and total Aβ in the brain of an AD animal model and improved the alternation behavior of mice during Y-maze tests. The crystal structure of human QC (hQC) in complex with 214 indicated tight binding at the active site, supporting that the specific inhibition of QC results in potent in vitro and in vivo activity. Considering the recent clinical success of donanemab, which targets AβΝ3pE, small molecule-based QC inhibitors may also provide potential therapeutic options for early-stage AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Van Manh
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Van-Hai Hoang
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Van T H Ngo
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea; Graduate Department of Healthcare Science, Dainam University, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Jihyae Ann
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Ho Jang
- New Drug Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu, 41061, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hye Ha
- New Drug Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu, 41061, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Young Song
- New Drug Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu, 41061, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Jin Ha
- Medifron DBT, Seoul, 08502, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Kim
- Medifron DBT, Seoul, 08502, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Jiyoun Lee
- Department of Global Medical Science, Sungshin University, Seoul, 01133, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeewoo Lee
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
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20
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Xu C, Zou H, Yu X, Xie Y, Cai J, Shang Q, Ouyang N, Wang Y, Xu P, He Z, Wu H. Repurposing FDA-Approved Compounds for the Discovery of Glutaminyl Cyclase Inhibitors as Drugs Against Alzheimer's Disease. ChemistryOpen 2021; 10:877-881. [PMID: 33377311 PMCID: PMC8409088 DOI: 10.1002/open.202000235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative causes of dementia, the pathology of which is still not much clear. It's challenging to discover the disease modifying agents for the prevention and treatment of AD over the years. Emerging evidence has been accumulated to reveal the crucial role of up-regulated glutaminyl cyclase (QC) in the initiation of AD. In the current study, the QC inhibitory potency of a library consisting of 1621 FDA-approved compounds was assessed. A total of 54 hits, 3.33 % of the pool, exhibited QC inhibitory activities. The Ki of the top 5 compounds with the highest QC inhibitory activities were measured. Among these selected hits, compounds affecting neuronal signaling pathways and other mechanisms were recognized. Moreover, several polyphenol derivatives with QC inhibitory activities were also identified. Frameworks and subsets contained in these hits were analyzed. Taken together, our results may contribute to the discovery and development of novel QC inhibitors as potential anti-AD agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenshu Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Health Science CenterShenzhen University3688 Nanhai RoadShenzhen518055China
| | - Haoman Zou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Health Science CenterShenzhen University3688 Nanhai RoadShenzhen518055China
| | - Xi Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Health Science CenterShenzhen University3688 Nanhai RoadShenzhen518055China
| | - Yazhou Xie
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Health Science CenterShenzhen University3688 Nanhai RoadShenzhen518055China
| | - Jiaxin Cai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Health Science CenterShenzhen University3688 Nanhai RoadShenzhen518055China
| | - Qi Shang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Health Science CenterShenzhen University3688 Nanhai RoadShenzhen518055China
| | - Na Ouyang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Health Science CenterShenzhen University3688 Nanhai RoadShenzhen518055China
| | - Yinan Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Health Science CenterShenzhen University3688 Nanhai RoadShenzhen518055China
| | - Pan Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Health Science CenterShenzhen University3688 Nanhai RoadShenzhen518055China
| | - Zhendan He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Health Science CenterShenzhen University3688 Nanhai RoadShenzhen518055China
| | - Haiqiang Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Health Science CenterShenzhen University3688 Nanhai RoadShenzhen518055China
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21
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Coimbra JRM, Salvador JAR. A patent review of glutaminyl cyclase inhibitors (2004-present). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2021; 31:809-836. [PMID: 33896339 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2021.1917549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Glutaminyl cyclase (QC) enzymes catalyze the post-translational processing of several substrates with N-terminal glutamine or glutamate to form pyroglutamate (pE) residue. In addition to physiological functions, emerging evidence demonstrates that human QCs play a part in pathological processes in diverse diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), inflammatory and cancer diseases.Areas covered: In recent years, efforts to effectively develop QC small-molecule inhibitors have been made and different chemical classes have been disclosed. This review summarizes the patents/applications regarding QC inhibitors released from 2004 (first patent) to now. The patents are mostly described in terms of chemical structures, biochemical/pharmacological activities, and potential clinical applications.Expert opinion: For more than 15 years of research, the knowledge on the QC activity domain has considerably increased and therapeutic potential of QC inhibitors has been explored. An important number of studies and patents have been published to expand the use of QC inhibitors. QC enzymes are pharmacologically interesting targets to be used as an AD-modifying therapy, or for other QC-associated disorder. Distinct classes of chemical scaffolds and potential clinical uses have been claimed by various organizations. For the coming years, there is much to experience in the QC field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judite R M Coimbra
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jorge A R Salvador
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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22
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Xu C, Wang YN, Wu H. Glutaminyl Cyclase, Diseases, and Development of Glutaminyl Cyclase Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2021; 64:6549-6565. [PMID: 34000808 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Pyroglutamate (pE) modification, catalyzed mainly by glutaminyl cyclase (QC), is prevalent throughout nature and is particularly important in mammals including humans for the maturation of hormones, peptides, and proteins. In humans, the upregulation of QC is involved in multiple diseases and conditions including Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, melanomas, thyroid carcinomas, accelerated atherosclerosis, septic arthritics, etc. This upregulation catalyzes the generation of modified mediators such as pE-amyloid beta (Aß) and pE-chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) peptides. Not surprisingly, QC has emerged as a reasonable target for the development of therapeutics to combat these diseases and conditions. In this manuscript the deleterious effects of upregulated QC resulting in disease manifestation are reviewed, along with progress on the development of QC inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenshu Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Yi-Nan Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Haiqiang Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
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23
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24
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A Unique Carboxylic-Acid Hydrogen-Bond Network (CAHBN) Confers Glutaminyl Cyclase Activity on M28 Family Enzymes. J Mol Biol 2021; 433:166960. [PMID: 33774034 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.166960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Proteins with sequence or structure similar to those of di-Zn exopeptidases are usually classified as the M28-family enzymes, including the mammalian-type glutaminyl cyclases (QCs). QC catalyzes protein N-terminal pyroglutamate formation, a posttranslational modification important under many physiological and pathological conditions, and is a drug target for treating neurodegenerative diseases, cancers and inflammatory disorders. Without functional characterization, mammalian QCs and their orthologs remain indistinguishable at the sequence and structure levels from other M28-family proteins, leading to few reported QCs. Here, we show that a low-barrier carboxylic-acid hydrogen-bond network (CAHBN) is required for QC activity and discriminates QCs from M28-family peptidases. We demonstrate that the CAHBN-containing M28 peptidases deposited in the PDB are indeed QCs. Our analyses identify several thousands of QCs from the three domains of life, and we enzymatically and structurally characterize several. For the first time, the interplay between a CAHBN and the binuclear metal-binding center of mammalian QCs is made clear. We found that the presence or absence of CAHBN is a key discriminator for the formation of either the mono-Zn QCs or the di-Zn exopeptidases. Our study helps explain the possible roles of QCs in life.
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25
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Kapadia A, Sharma KK, Maurya IK, Singh V, Khullar M, Jain R. Structural and mechanistic insights into the inhibition of amyloid-β aggregation by Aβ 39-42 fragment derived synthetic peptides. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 212:113126. [PMID: 33395622 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.113126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The inhibition of amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation is a promising approach towards therapeutic intervention for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Thirty eight tetrapeptides based upon Aβ39-42C-terminus fragment of the parent Aβ peptide were synthesized. The sequential replacement/modification employing unnatural amino acids imparted scaffold diversity, augmented activity, enhanced blood brain barrier permeability and offered proteolytic stability to the synthetic peptides. Several peptides exhibited promising protection against Aβ aggregation-mediated-neurotoxicity in PC-12 cells at doses ranged between 10 μM and 0.1 μM, further confirmed by the thioflavin-T fluorescence assay. CD study illustrate that these peptides restrict the β-sheet formation, and the non-appearance of Aβ42 fibrillar structures in the electron microscopy confirm the inhibition of Aβ42 aggregation. HRMS and ANS fluorescence spectroscopic analysis provided additional mechanistic insights. Two selected lead peptides 5 and 16 depicted enhanced blood-brain penetration and stability against serum and proteolytic enzyme. Structural insights into ligand-Aβ interactions on the monomeric and proto-fibrillar units of Aβ were computationally studied. Promising inhibitory potential and short sequence of the lead peptides offers new avenues for the advancement of peptide-derived therapeutics for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Kapadia
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sector 67, S.A.S Nagar, Punjab, 160 062, India
| | - Krishna K Sharma
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sector 67, S.A.S Nagar, Punjab, 160 062, India
| | - Indresh Kumar Maurya
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Punjab University, Sector 25, Chandigarh, 160 014, India
| | - Varinder Singh
- Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Sector 11, Chandigarh, 160 014, India
| | - Madhu Khullar
- Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Sector 11, Chandigarh, 160 014, India
| | - Rahul Jain
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sector 67, S.A.S Nagar, Punjab, 160 062, India.
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26
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Dileep KV, Sakai N, Ihara K, Kato-Murayama M, Nakata A, Ito A, Sivaraman DM, Shin JW, Yoshida M, Shirouzu M, Zhang KYJ. Piperidine-4-carboxamide as a new scaffold for designing secretory glutaminyl cyclase inhibitors. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 170:415-423. [PMID: 33373636 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.12.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a common chronic neurodegenerative disease, has become a major public health concern. Despite years of research, therapeutics for AD are limited. Overexpression of secretory glutaminyl cyclase (sQC) in AD brain leads to the formation of a highly neurotoxic pyroglutamate variant of amyloid beta, pGlu-Aβ, which acts as a potential seed for the aggregation of full length Aβ. Preventing the formation of pGlu-Aβ through inhibition of sQC has become an attractive disease-modifying therapy in AD. In this current study, through a pharmacophore assisted high throughput virtual screening, we report a novel sQC inhibitor (Cpd-41) with a piperidine-4-carboxamide moiety (IC50 = 34 μM). Systematic molecular docking, MD simulations and X-ray crystallographic analysis provided atomistic details of the binding of Cpd-41 in the active site of sQC. The unique mode of binding and moderate toxicity of Cpd-41 make this molecule an attractive candidate for designing high affinity sQC inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- K V Dileep
- Laboratory for Structural Bioinformatics, Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan
| | - Naoki Sakai
- Laboratory for Protein Functional and Structural Biology, Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan
| | - Kentaro Ihara
- Laboratory for Protein Functional and Structural Biology, Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan
| | - Miyuki Kato-Murayama
- Laboratory for Protein Functional and Structural Biology, Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan
| | - Akiko Nakata
- Seed Compounds Exploratory Unit for Drug Discovery Platform, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Akihiro Ito
- Chemical Genomics Research Group, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan; Laboratory of Cell Signaling, School of Life Sciences, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, 1432-1 Horinouchi, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan
| | - D M Sivaraman
- Laboratory for Advanced Genomics Circuit, Centre for Integrative Medical Sciences, RIKEN, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan; Department of Pathology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram 695 011, Kerala, India
| | - Jay W Shin
- Laboratory for Advanced Genomics Circuit, Centre for Integrative Medical Sciences, RIKEN, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan
| | - Minoru Yoshida
- Seed Compounds Exploratory Unit for Drug Discovery Platform, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan; Chemical Genomics Research Group, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan; Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Mikako Shirouzu
- Laboratory for Protein Functional and Structural Biology, Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan
| | - Kam Y J Zhang
- Laboratory for Structural Bioinformatics, Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan.
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27
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Gunn AP, Wong BX, McLean C, Fowler C, Barnard PJ, Duce JA, Roberts BR. Increased glutaminyl cyclase activity in brains of Alzheimer's disease individuals. J Neurochem 2020; 156:979-987. [PMID: 32614980 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Glutaminyl cyclases (QC) catalyze the formation of neurotoxic pGlu-modified amyloid-β peptides found in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Reports of several-fold increases in soluble QC (sQC) expression in the brain and peripheral circulation of AD individuals has prompted the development of QC inhibitors as potential AD therapeutics. There is, however, a lack of standardized quantitative data on QC expression in human tissues, precluding inter-laboratory comparison and validation. We tested the hypothesis that QC is elevated in AD tissues by quantifying levels of sQC protein and activity in post-mortem brain tissues from AD and age-matched control individuals. We found a modest but statistically significant increase in sQC protein, which paralleled a similar increase in enzyme activity. In plasma samples sourced from the Australian Imaging, Biomarker and Lifestyle study we determined that QC activity was not different between the AD and control group, though a modest increase was observed in female AD individuals compared to controls. Plasma QC activity was further correlated with levels of circulating monocytes in AD individuals. These data provide quantitative evidence that alterations in QC expression are associated with AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam P Gunn
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia.,Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Bruce X Wong
- The ALBORADA Drug Discovery Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Catriona McLean
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Alfred Hospital, Prahran, Vic, Australia
| | - Chris Fowler
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia
| | - Peter J Barnard
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Vic, Australia
| | - James A Duce
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia.,The ALBORADA Drug Discovery Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Blaine R Roberts
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Neurology, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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28
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Kapadia A, Patel A, Sharma KK, Maurya IK, Singh V, Khullar M, Jain R. Effect of C-terminus amidation of Aβ39–42fragment derived peptides as potential inhibitors of Aβ aggregation. RSC Adv 2020; 10:27137-27151. [PMID: 35515767 PMCID: PMC9055537 DOI: 10.1039/d0ra04788k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The C-terminus fragment (Val-Val-Ile-Ala) of amyloid-β is reported to inhibit the aggregation of the parent peptide. In an attempt to investigate the effect of sequential amino-acid scan and C-terminus amidation on the biological profile of the lead sequence, a series of tetrapeptides were synthesized using MW-SPPS. Peptide D-Phe-Val-Ile-Ala-NH2 (12c) exhibited high protection against β-amyloid-mediated-neurotoxicity by inhibiting Aβ aggregation in the MTT cell viability and ThT-fluorescence assay. Circular dichroism studies illustrate the inability of Aβ42 to form β-sheet in the presence of 12c, further confirmed by the absence of Aβ42 fibrils in electron microscopy experiments. The peptide exhibits enhanced BBB permeation, no cytotoxicity along with prolonged proteolytic stability. In silico studies show that the peptide interacts with the key amino acids in Aβ, which potentiate its fibrillation, thereby arresting aggregation propensity. This structural class of designed scaffolds provides impetus towards the rational development of peptide-based-therapeutics for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Amidated C-terminal fragment, Aβ39–42 derived non-cytotoxic β-sheet breaker peptides exhibit excellent potency, enhanced bioavailability and improved proteolytic stability.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Kapadia
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research
- India
| | - Aesan Patel
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research
- India
| | - Krishna K. Sharma
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research
- India
| | | | - Varinder Singh
- Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research
- Chandigarh
- India
| | - Madhu Khullar
- Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research
- Chandigarh
- India
| | - Rahul Jain
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research
- India
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29
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Malig TC, Tan Y, Wisniewski SR, Higman CS, Carrasquillo-Flores R, Ortiz A, Purdum GE, Kolotuchin S, Hein JE. Development of a telescoped synthesis of 4-(1 H)-cyanoimidazole core accelerated by orthogonal reaction monitoring. REACT CHEM ENG 2020. [DOI: 10.1039/d0re00234h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Telescoped synthesis enabled by reaction monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C. Malig
- Department of Chemistry
- University of British Columbia
- Vancouver
- Canada
| | - Yichen Tan
- Chemical Process Development
- Bristol Myers Squibb Company
- New Brunswick
- USA
| | | | - Carolyn S. Higman
- Chemical Process Development
- Bristol Myers Squibb Company
- New Brunswick
- USA
| | | | - Adrian Ortiz
- Chemical Process Development
- Bristol Myers Squibb Company
- New Brunswick
- USA
| | - Geoffrey E. Purdum
- Chemical Process Development
- Bristol Myers Squibb Company
- New Brunswick
- USA
| | - Sergei Kolotuchin
- Chemical Process Development
- Bristol Myers Squibb Company
- New Brunswick
- USA
| | - Jason E. Hein
- Department of Chemistry
- University of British Columbia
- Vancouver
- Canada
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30
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Abstract
A diverse range of N-terminally truncated and modified forms of amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers have been discovered in Alzheimer’s disease brains, including the pyroglutamate-Aβ (AβpE3). AβpE3 species are shown to be more neurotoxic when compared with the full-length Aβ peptide. Findings visibly suggest that glutaminyl cyclase (QC) catalyzed the generation of cerebral AβpE3, and therapeutic effects are achieved by reducing its activity. In recent years, efforts to effectively develop QC inhibitors have been pursued worldwide. The inhibitory activity of current QC inhibitors is mainly triggered by zinc-binding groups that coordinate Zn2+ ion in the active site and other common features. Herein, we summarized the current state of discovery and evolution of QC inhibitors as a potential Alzheimer’s disease-modifying strategy.
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31
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Wang X, Wang L, Yu X, Li Y, Liu Z, Zou Y, Zheng Y, He Z, Wu H. Glutaminyl cyclase inhibitor exhibits anti-inflammatory effects in both AD and LPS-induced inflammatory model mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 75:105770. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.105770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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32
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Xu A, He F, Yu C, Qu Y, Zhang Q, Lv J, Zhang X, Ran Y, Wei C, Wu J. The Development of Small Molecule Inhibitors of Glutaminyl Cyclase and Isoglutaminyl Cyclase for Alzheimer's Disease. ChemistrySelect 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.201902852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Xu
- College of PharmacyShanDong University, 4 4 West WenHua Road JiNan 250012 China
| | - Feng He
- College of PharmacyShanDong University, 4 4 West WenHua Road JiNan 250012 China
| | - Chenggong Yu
- College of PharmacyShanDong University, 4 4 West WenHua Road JiNan 250012 China
| | - Ying Qu
- College of PharmacyShanDong University, 4 4 West WenHua Road JiNan 250012 China
| | - Qiuqiong Zhang
- College of PharmacyShanDong University, 4 4 West WenHua Road JiNan 250012 China
| | - Jiahui Lv
- College of PharmacyShanDong University, 4 4 West WenHua Road JiNan 250012 China
| | - Xiangna Zhang
- College of PharmacyShanDong University, 4 4 West WenHua Road JiNan 250012 China
| | - Yingying Ran
- College of PharmacyShanDong University, 4 4 West WenHua Road JiNan 250012 China
| | - Chao Wei
- College of PharmacyShanDong University, 4 4 West WenHua Road JiNan 250012 China
| | - Jingde Wu
- College of PharmacyShanDong University, 4 4 West WenHua Road JiNan 250012 China
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33
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Vijayan DK, Zhang KY. Human glutaminyl cyclase: Structure, function, inhibitors and involvement in Alzheimer’s disease. Pharmacol Res 2019; 147:104342. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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34
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Hoang VH, Ngo VTH, Cui M, Manh NV, Tran PT, Ann J, Ha HJ, Kim H, Choi K, Kim YH, Chang H, Macalino SJY, Lee J, Choi S, Lee J. Discovery of Conformationally Restricted Human Glutaminyl Cyclase Inhibitors as Potent Anti-Alzheimer's Agents by Structure-Based Design. J Med Chem 2019; 62:8011-8027. [PMID: 31411468 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an incurable, progressive neurodegenerative disease whose pathogenesis cannot be defined by one single element but consists of various factors; thus, there is a call for alternative approaches to tackle the multifaceted aspects of AD. Among the potential alternative targets, we aim to focus on glutaminyl cyclase (QC), which reduces the toxic pyroform of β-amyloid in the brains of AD patients. On the basis of a putative active conformation of the prototype inhibitor 1, a series of N-substituted thiourea, urea, and α-substituted amide derivatives were developed. The structure-activity relationship analyses indicated that conformationally restrained inhibitors demonstrated much improved QC inhibition in vitro compared to nonrestricted analogues, and several selected compounds demonstrated desirable therapeutic activity in an AD mouse model. The conformational analysis of a representative inhibitor indicated that the inhibitor appeared to maintain the Z-E conformation at the active site, as it is critical for its potent activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van-Hai Hoang
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , Seoul National University , Seoul 08826 , Republic of Korea
| | - Van T H Ngo
- Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Biophysics & Faculty of Pharmacy , Ton Duc Thang University , Ho Chi Minh City 75307 , Vietnam
| | - Minghua Cui
- National Leading Research Laboratory of Molecular Modeling & Drug Design, College of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Ewha Womans University , Seoul 03760 , Republic of Korea
| | - Nguyen Van Manh
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , Seoul National University , Seoul 08826 , Republic of Korea
| | - Phuong-Thao Tran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry , Hanoi University of Pharmacy , Hanoi 10000 , Vietnam
| | - Jihyae Ann
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , Seoul National University , Seoul 08826 , Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Jin Ha
- Medifron DBT , Sandanro 349 , Danwon-Gu, Ansan-City , Gyeonggi-Do 15426 , Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Kim
- Medifron DBT , Sandanro 349 , Danwon-Gu, Ansan-City , Gyeonggi-Do 15426 , Republic of Korea
| | - Kwanghyun Choi
- Medifron DBT , Sandanro 349 , Danwon-Gu, Ansan-City , Gyeonggi-Do 15426 , Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Ho Kim
- Medifron DBT , Sandanro 349 , Danwon-Gu, Ansan-City , Gyeonggi-Do 15426 , Republic of Korea
| | - Hyerim Chang
- National Leading Research Laboratory of Molecular Modeling & Drug Design, College of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Ewha Womans University , Seoul 03760 , Republic of Korea
| | - Stephani Joy Y Macalino
- National Leading Research Laboratory of Molecular Modeling & Drug Design, College of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Ewha Womans University , Seoul 03760 , Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyoun Lee
- Department of Global Medical Science , Sungshin University , Seoul 01133 , Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Choi
- National Leading Research Laboratory of Molecular Modeling & Drug Design, College of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Ewha Womans University , Seoul 03760 , Republic of Korea
| | - Jeewoo Lee
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy , Seoul National University , Seoul 08826 , Republic of Korea
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35
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Arafa WAA, Ibrahim HM. Sustainable and scalable synthesis of polysubstituted bis-1,2,4-triazoles, bis-2-iminothiazolines and bis-thiobarbiturates using bis- N, N-disubstituted thioureas as versatile substrate. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2019; 6:181963. [PMID: 31312476 PMCID: PMC6599792 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.181963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
An expedient and tandem regioselective one-pot protocol for the sono-synthesis of bis-[1,2,4]-triazol-3-yl amines and bis-2-iminothiazolines from corresponding bis-1,3-disubstituted thioureas has been developed. The products' regioselectivity correlate well with the pK as of the parent amines, in which the amine possessing higher pK a goes to the ring nitrogen, whereas the other nitrogen remains flanked as an exocyclic nitrogen of the bis-triazole or bis-thiazole moieties. Further, the sonochemical preparation of both bis-5-(2-nitrobenzylidene) thiobarbiturates and bis-2-thioxoimidazolidine-4,5-diones from bis-1,3-disubstituted thioureas has also been achieved. The obtained bis-5-(2-nitrobenzylidene)thiobarbiturates easily underwent reductive cyclization to afford the corresponding bis-5-benzo[c]isoxazol-3-ylidenethiobarbiturates. The scope and limitations of these strategies have been studied. Moreover, the suggested methodologies have advantages such as broad functional group tolerance, mild conditions, operational simplicity and applicability on a gram scale. Furthermore, the protocols scored well in a number of green metrics, subsequently showing these approaches to be environmentally benign and sustainable processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wael Abdelgayed Ahmed Arafa
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Jouf University, PO Box 2014, Sakaka, Aljouf, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Fayoum University, PO Box 63514 Fayoum City, Egypt
| | - Hamada Mohamed Ibrahim
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Fayoum University, PO Box 63514 Fayoum City, Egypt
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36
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Yu X, Li Y, Zou Y, Zheng Y, He Z, Liu Z, Xie W, Wu H. Glutaminyl cyclase inhibitor contributes to the regulation of HSP70, HSP90, actin, and ribosome on gene and protein levels in vitro. J Cell Biochem 2018; 120:9460-9471. [PMID: 30582198 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.28222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Because of the crucial roles of upregulated glutaminyl cyclase (QC) in the initiation and development of Alzheimer's disease (AD), QC inhibitors are supposed as disease-modifying agents for the treatment of AD. And reported compounds encourage this hypothesis greatly based on the remarkable anti-AD effects in vivo. To illustrate the mechanism in detail, the actions of a selected QC inhibitor (23) were assessed firstly in a cell system here. It was demonstrated that QC activities and the generation of pyroglutamate-modified β-amyloids in PC12 cells were both inhibited obviously after the treatment of 23. A total of 13 and 15 genes were up- and downregulated significantly in treated cells by RNA-sequencing analysis. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, WB, and immunofluorescence analysis supported the effects of 23 on the transcriptome of PC12 cells consequently. The expressions of chaperones, heat shock proteins (HSP) 70, and 90, were upreglutated, while gene expression of actin and the level of encoded protein were reduced significantly in PC12 cells with the treatment. Furthermore, the regulations of ribosome were observed after the treatment. These results indicate the potency of 23 to improve the translation, expression and folding regulation of proteins and affect the multivalent cross-linking of cytoskeletal protein and other proteins subsequently in the cell system and might contribute to the understanding of the mechanism of QC inhibitor as potential anti-AD agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yue Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yongdong Zou
- College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yizhi Zheng
- College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhendan He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhigang Liu
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenlin Xie
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, China
| | - Haiqiang Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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37
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Wu Q, Zheng K, Huang X, Li L, Mei W. Tanshinone-IIA-Based Analogues of Imidazole Alkaloid Act as Potent Inhibitors To Block Breast Cancer Invasion and Metastasis in Vivo. J Med Chem 2018; 61:10488-10501. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Gaungzhou, 510006, China
| | - Kangdi Zheng
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Gaungzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xiaoting Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Gaungzhou, 510006, China
| | - Li Li
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Gaungzhou, 510006, China
| | - Wenjie Mei
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Gaungzhou, 510006, China
- Guangdong Province Engineering Technology Centre for molecular Probe & Bio-medicine Imaging, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Guangzhou key laboratory of construction and application of new drug screening model systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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38
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The structure of the human glutaminyl cyclase–SEN177 complex indicates routes for developing new potent inhibitors as possible agents for the treatment of neurological disorders. J Biol Inorg Chem 2018; 23:1219-1226. [DOI: 10.1007/s00775-018-1605-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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39
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Structure-activity relationship investigation of Phe-Arg mimetic region of human glutaminyl cyclase inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem 2018; 26:3133-3144. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2018.04.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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40
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Wang Q, Ma C, Li X, Wang X, Rong R, Wei C, Zhang P, Li X. Synthesis of novel sugar or azasugar modified anthra[1,2- d ] imidazole-6,11-dione derivatives and biological evaluation. Carbohydr Res 2018; 460:29-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carres.2018.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Revised: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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41
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Can small molecule inhibitors of glutaminyl cyclase be used as a therapeutic for Alzheimer's disease? Future Med Chem 2017; 9:1979-1981. [DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2017-0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial and socioeconomically burdensome disease. In view of the failures of anti-AD candidates, we should try to rethink what we did before and what we should do next, in part at least. Research shows that the more neurotoxic factor, pyroglutamate-Aβs, and the more important inflammatory mediators, pyroglutamate-CCL2, both contribute to the initiation of AD specifically and the generation of N-terminal intramolecular cyclization catalyzed by glutaminyl cyclase quality control, the over-expression of which correlates positively with the severity of AD. Subsequently, lowering pyroglutamate-Aβs and pyroglutamate-CCL2 levels by quality control inhibition using small molecule inhibitors could be expected as an amazing strategy for the prevention and treatment of AD.
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