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Tymecka D, Redkiewicz P, Lipiński PFJ, Misicka A. Peptidomimetic inhibitors of the VEGF-A 165/NRP-1 complex obtained by modification of the C-terminal arginine. Amino Acids 2024; 56:49. [PMID: 39181965 PMCID: PMC11344719 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-024-03411-8] [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: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Inhibitors of the interaction between Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A165 (VEGF-A165) hold significant promise as therapeutic and diagnostic agents directed against cancers overexpressing NRP-1. In our efforts in this field, a few series of strong and fairly stable peptide-like inhibitors of the general formula Lys(Har)1-Xaa2-Xaa3-Arg4 have been previously discovered. In the current work, we focused on Lys(Har)-Dap/Dab-Pro-Arg sequence. The aim was to examine whether replacing C-terminal Arg with its homologs and mimetics would yield more stable yet still potent inhibitors. Upon considering the results of modelling and other factors, ten novel analogues with Xaa4 = homoarginine (Har), 2-amino-4-guanidino-butyric acid (Agb), 2-amino-3-guanidino-propionic acid (Agp), citrulline (Cit), 4-aminomethyl-phenylalanine [Phe(4-CH2-NH2)] were designed, synthesized and evaluated. Two of the proposed modifications resulted in inhibitors with activity slightly lower [e.g. IC50 = 14.3 μM for Lys(Har)-Dab-Pro-Har and IC50 = 19.8 μM for Lys(Har)-Dab-Pro-Phe(4-CH2-NH2)] than the parent compounds [e.g. IC50 = 4.7 μM for Lys(Har)-Dab-Pro-Arg]. What was a surprise to us, the proteolytic stability depended more on position two of the sequence than on position four. The Dab2-analogues exhibited half-life times beyond 60 h. Our results build up the knowledge on the structural requirements that effective VEGF-A165/NRP-1 inhibitors should fulfil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagmara Tymecka
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Patrycja Redkiewicz
- Department of Neuropeptides, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr F J Lipiński
- Department of Neuropeptides, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Misicka
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland.
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2
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Song X, Chen R, Li J, Zhu Y, Jiao J, Liu H, Chen Z, Geng J. Fragile Treg cells: Traitors in immune homeostasis? Pharmacol Res 2024; 206:107297. [PMID: 38977207 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells play a key role in maintaining immune tolerance and tissue homeostasis. However, in some disease microenvironments, Treg cells exhibit fragility, which manifests as preserved FoxP3 expression accompanied by inflammation and loss of immunosuppression. Fragile Treg cells are formatively, phenotypically and functionally diverse in various diseases, further complicating the role of Treg cells in the immunotherapeutic response and offering novel targets for disease treatment by modulating specific Treg subsets. In this review, we summarize findings on fragile Treg cells to provide a framework for characterizing the formation and role of fragile Treg cells in different diseases, and we discuss how this information may guide the development of more specific Treg-targeted immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiyu Song
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine & Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China.
| | - Ruo Chen
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine & Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China.
| | - Jiaxin Li
- Student Brigade of Basic Medicine School, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China.
| | - Yumeng Zhu
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine & Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China.
| | - Jianhua Jiao
- Department of Urology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China.
| | - Hongjiao Liu
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine & Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China.
| | - Zhinan Chen
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine & Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China.
| | - Jiejie Geng
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine & Department of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China; State Key Laboratory of New Targets Discovery and Drug Development for Major Diseases, PR China.
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3
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Chen T, Li S, Wang L. Semaphorins in tumor microenvironment: Biological mechanisms and therapeutic progress. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 132:112035. [PMID: 38603857 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112035] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Hallmark features of the tumor microenvironment include immune cells, stromal cells, blood vessels, and extracellular matrix (ECM), providing a conducive environment for the growth and survival of tumors. Recent advances in the understanding of cancer biology have highlighted the functional role of semaphorins (SEMAs). SEMAs are a large and diverse family of widely expressed secreted and membrane-binding proteins, which were initially implicated in axon guidance and neural development. However, it is now clear that they are widely expressed beyond the nervous system and participate in regulating immune responses and cancer progression. In fact, accumulating evidence disclosed that different SEMAs can either stimulate or restrict tumor progression, some of which act as important regulators of tumor angiogenesis. Conversely, limited information is known about the functional relevance of SEMA signals in TME. In this setting, we systematically elaborate the role SEMAs and their major receptors played in characterized components of TME. Furthermore, we provide a convergent view of current SEMAs pharmacological progress in clinical treatment and also put forward their potential application value and clinical prospects in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, PR China
| | - Shazhou Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, PR China
| | - Lufang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, PR China.
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Chikh A, Raimondi C. Endothelial Neuropilin-1: a multifaced signal transducer with an emerging role in inflammation and atherosclerosis beyond angiogenesis. Biochem Soc Trans 2024; 52:137-150. [PMID: 38323651 PMCID: PMC10903451 DOI: 10.1042/bst20230329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP1) is a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed by several cell types including, neurons, endothelial cells (ECs), smooth muscle cells, cardiomyocytes and immune cells comprising macrophages, dendritic cells and T cell subsets. Since NRP1 discovery in 1987 as an adhesion molecule in the frog nervous system, more than 2300 publications on PubMed investigated the function of NRP1 in physiological and pathological contexts. NRP1 has been characterised as a coreceptor for class 3 semaphorins and several members of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family. Because the VEGF family is the main regulator of blood and lymphatic vessel growth in addition to promoting neurogenesis, neuronal patterning, neuroprotection and glial growth, the role of NRP1 in these biological processes has been extensively investigated. It is now established that NRP1 promotes the physiological growth of new vessels from pre-existing ones in the process of angiogenesis. Furthermore, several studies have shown that NRP1 mediates signalling pathways regulating pathological vascular growth in ocular neovascular diseases and tumour development. Less defined are the roles of NRP1 in maintaining the function of the quiescent established vasculature in an adult organism. This review will focus on the opposite roles of NRP1 in regulating transforming growth factor β signalling pathways in different cell types, and on the emerging role of endothelial NRP1 as an atheroprotective, anti-inflammatory factor involved in the response of ECs to shear stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anissa Chikh
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, London SW17 0RE, U.K
| | - Claudio Raimondi
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Centre of Cardiovascular Medicine and Devices, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, U.K
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5
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Shalabi S, Belayachi A, Larrivée B. Involvement of neuronal factors in tumor angiogenesis and the shaping of the cancer microenvironment. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1284629. [PMID: 38375479 PMCID: PMC10875004 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1284629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that nerves within the tumor microenvironment play a crucial role in regulating angiogenesis. Neurotransmitters and neuropeptides released by nerves can interact with nearby blood vessels and tumor cells, influencing their behavior and modulating the angiogenic response. Moreover, nerve-derived signals may activate signaling pathways that enhance the production of pro-angiogenic factors within the tumor microenvironment, further supporting blood vessel growth around tumors. The intricate network of communication between neural constituents and the vascular system accentuates the potential of therapeutically targeting neural-mediated pathways as an innovative strategy to modulate tumor angiogenesis and, consequently, neoplastic proliferation. Hereby, we review studies that evaluate the precise molecular interplay and the potential clinical ramifications of manipulating neural elements for the purpose of anti-angiogenic therapeutics within the scope of cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharif Shalabi
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Boulevard de l’Assomption, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Ali Belayachi
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Boulevard de l’Assomption, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Bruno Larrivée
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Boulevard de l’Assomption, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, boul. Édouard-Montpetit, Montréal, QC, Canada
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6
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Wu A, Shi K, Wang J, Zhang R, Wang Y. Targeting SARS-CoV-2 entry processes: The promising potential and future of host-targeted small-molecule inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 263:115923. [PMID: 37981443 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has had a huge impact on global health. To respond to rapidly mutating viruses and to prepare for the next pandemic, there is an urgent need to develop small molecule therapies that target critical stages of the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle. Inhibiting the entry process of the virus can effectively control viral infection and play a role in prevention and treatment. Host factors involved in this process, such as ACE2, TMPRSS2, ADAM17, furin, PIKfyve, TPC2, CTSL, AAK1, V-ATPase, HSPG, and NRP1, have been found to be potentially good targets with stability. Through further exploration of the cell entry process of SARS-CoV-2, small-molecule drugs targeting these host factors have been developed. This review focuses on the structural functions of potential host cell targets during the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into host cells. The research progress, chemical structure, structure-activity relationship, and clinical value of small-molecule inhibitors against COVID-19 are reviewed to provide a reference for the development of small-molecule drugs against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aijia Wu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Kunyu Shi
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, China
| | - Jiaxing Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163, Tennessee, United States
| | - Ruofei Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yuxi Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China; Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, China.
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7
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Li T, Luo N, Fu J, Du J, Liu Z, Tan Q, Zheng M, He J, Cheng J, Li D, Fu J. Natural Product Cordycepin (CD) Inhibition for NRP1/CD304 Expression and Possibly SARS-CoV-2 Susceptibility Prevention on Cancers. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2953. [PMID: 38138098 PMCID: PMC10745444 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11122953] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
NRP1/CD304 is a typical membrane-bound co-receptor for the vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF), semaphorin family members, and viral SARS-CoV-2. Cordycepin (CD) is a natural product or active gradient from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) from Cordyceps militaris Link and Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Berk.). However, NRP1 expression regulation via CD in cancers and the potential roles and mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection are not clear. In this study, online databases were analyzed, Western blotting and quantitative RT-PCR were used for NRP1 expression change via CD, molecular docking was used for NRP/CD interaction, and a syncytial formation assay was used for CD inhibition using a pseudovirus SARS-CoV-2 entry. As a result, we revealed that CD inhibits NRP1 expressed in cancer cells and prevents viral syncytial formation in 293T-hACE2 cells, implying the therapeutic potential for both anti-cancer and anti-viruses, including anti-SARS-CoV-2. We further found significant associations between NRP1 expressions and the tumor-immune response in immune lymphocytes, chemokines, receptors, immunostimulators, immune inhibitors, and major histocompatibility complexes in most cancer types, implying NRP1's roles in both anti-cancer and anti-SARS-CoV-2 entry likely via immunotherapy. Importantly, CD also downregulated the expression of NRP1 from lymphocytes in mice and downregulated the expression of A2AR from the lung cancer cell line H1975 when treated with CD, implying the NRP1 mechanism probably through immuno-response pathways. Thus, CD may be a therapeutic component for anti-cancer and anti-viral diseases, including COVID-19, by targeting NRP1 at least.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Na Luo
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Jiewen Fu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Jiaman Du
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Zhiying Liu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Qi Tan
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Meiling Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Jiayue He
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Jingliang Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Dabing Li
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Junjiang Fu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
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Wu Q, Pan C, Zhou Y, Wang S, Xie L, Zhou W, Ding L, Chen T, Qian J, Su R, Gao X, Mei Z, Qiao Y, Yin S, Wu Y, Wang J, Zhou L, Zheng S. Targeting neuropilin-1 abolishes anti-PD-1-upregulated regulatory T cells and synergizes with 4-1BB agonist for liver cancer treatment. Hepatology 2023; 78:1402-1417. [PMID: 36811396 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are an obstacle to PD-1 blockade-mediated antitumor efficacy. However, the behaviors of Tregs response to anti-PD-1 in HCC and the characteristics of Tregs tissue adaptation from peripheral lymphoid tissues to the tumor are still unclear. APPROACH RESULTS Here, we determine that PD-1 monotherapy potentially augments the accumulation of tumor CD4 + Tregs. Mechanistically, anti-PD-1 mediates Tregs proliferation in lymphoid tissues rather than in the tumor. Increased peripheral Tregs burden replenishes intratumoral Tregs, raising the ratio of intratumoral CD4 + Tregs to CD8 + T cells. Subsequently, single-cell transcriptomics revealed that neuropilin-1 (Nrp-1) supports Tregs migration behavior, and the genes of Crem and Tnfrsf9 regulate the behaviors of the terminal suppressive Tregs. Nrp-1 + 4-1BB - Tregs stepwise develop to the Nrp-1 - 4-1BB + Tregs from lymphoid tissues into the tumor. Moreover, Treg-restricted Nrp1 depletion abolishes anti-PD-1-upregulated intratumoral Tregs burden and synergizes with the 4-1BB agonist to enhance the antitumor response. Finally, a combination of the Nrp-1 inhibitor and the 4-1BB agonist in humanized HCC models showed a favorable and safe outcome and evoked the antitumor effect of the PD-1 blockade. CONCLUSION Our findings elucidate the potential mechanism of anti-PD-1-mediated intratumoral Tregs accumulation in HCC and uncover the tissue adaptation characteristics of Tregs and identify the therapeutic potential of targeting Nrp-1 and 4-1BB for reprogramming the HCC microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinchuan Wu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Caixu Pan
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Liver Transplantation, Shulan Hospital, Zhejiang Shuren University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liting Xie
- Department of Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wuhua Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Limin Ding
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Tianchi Chen
- Department of vascular surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junjie Qian
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Rong Su
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Xingxing Gao
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhibin Mei
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiting Qiao
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Shengyong Yin
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Wu
- Lyvgen Biopharma, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Lin Zhou
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
| | - Shusen Zheng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHFPC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the diagnosis and treatment of organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Liver Transplantation, Shulan Hospital, Zhejiang Shuren University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Puszko AK, Sosnowski P, Hermine O, Hopfgartner G, Lepelletier Y, Misicka A. Structure-activity relationship studies and biological properties evaluation of peptidic NRP-1 ligands: Investigation of N-terminal cysteine importance. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 94:117482. [PMID: 37774449 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117482] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is a major co-receptor of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2). It may also stimulate tumour growth and metastasis independently of VEGF-A165. These functions make VEGF-A165/NRP-1 complex formation and its inhibition of great interest, where NRP-1 is the target for which effective ligands are sought. Design of peptide-like inhibitors represent a strategy with great potential in the treatment of NRP-1-related disorders. Here, we present the synthesis, molecular modelling, structure-activity relationship studies as well as biological evaluation of peptides with the branched sequences H2N-X-Lys(hArg)-Dab-Oic-Arg-OH and H2N-Lys(X-hArg)-Dab-Oic-Arg-OH. Two of the designed peptides, in which Cys was inserted in X position, expressed high affinity (∼40 nM value) for NRP-1 and were resistant to enzymatic digestion in human serum. Moreover, peptide/NRP-1 complex promoted fast intracytoplasmic protein trafficking towards the plasma membrane in breast cancer cells. Our results suggest that these compounds might be good candidates for further development of VEGF-A165/NRP-1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Puszko
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Piotr Sosnowski
- Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, University of Geneva, 24 Quai Ernest Ansermet, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland; Department of Bioanalytics, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Olivier Hermine
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, 24 boulevard Montparnasse, 75015 Paris, France; INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Basis of Normal Hematopoiesis and Hematological Disorders: Therapeutical Implications, 24 boulevard Montparnasse, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Gérard Hopfgartner
- Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, University of Geneva, 24 Quai Ernest Ansermet, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Yves Lepelletier
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, 24 boulevard Montparnasse, 75015 Paris, France; INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Basis of Normal Hematopoiesis and Hematological Disorders: Therapeutical Implications, 24 boulevard Montparnasse, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Aleksandra Misicka
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland.
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10
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Goudiaby I, Malliavin TE, Mocchetti E, Mathiot S, Acherar S, Frochot C, Barberi-Heyob M, Guillot B, Favier F, Didierjean C, Jelsch C. New Crystal Form of Human Neuropilin-1 b1 Fragment with Six Electrostatic Mutations Complexed with KDKPPR Peptide Ligand. Molecules 2023; 28:5603. [PMID: 37513474 PMCID: PMC10385628 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28145603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin 1 (NRP1), a cell-surface co-receptor of a number of growth factors and other signaling molecules, has long been the focus of attention due to its association with the development and the progression of several types of cancer. For example, the KDKPPR peptide has recently been combined with a photosensitizer and a contrast agent to bind NRP1 for the detection and treatment by photodynamic therapy of glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer. The main therapeutic target is a pocket of the fragment b1 of NRP1 (NRP1-b1), in which vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) bind. In the crystal packing of native human NRP1-b1, the VEGF-binding site is obstructed by a crystallographic symmetry neighbor protein, which prevents the binding of ligands. Six charged amino acids located at the protein surface were mutated to allow the protein to form a new crystal packing. The structure of the mutated fragment b1 complexed with the KDKPPR peptide was determined by X-ray crystallography. The variant crystallized in a new crystal form with the VEGF-binding cleft exposed to the solvent and, as expected, filled by the C-terminal moiety of the peptide. The atomic interactions were analyzed using new approaches based on a multipolar electron density model. Among other things, these methods indicated the role played by Asp320 and Glu348 in the electrostatic steering of the ligand in its binding site. Molecular dynamics simulations were carried out to further analyze the peptide binding and motion of the wild-type and mutant proteins. The simulations revealed that specific loops interacting with the peptide exhibited mobility in both the unbound and bound forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahima Goudiaby
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRM2, F-54000 Nancy, France; (I.G.); (E.M.); (B.G.)
- Université Assane Seck de Ziguinchor, Laboratoire de Chimie et de Physique des Matériaux (LCPM), 523 Ziguinchor, Senegal
| | | | - Eva Mocchetti
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRM2, F-54000 Nancy, France; (I.G.); (E.M.); (B.G.)
| | - Sandrine Mathiot
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRM2, F-54000 Nancy, France; (I.G.); (E.M.); (B.G.)
| | - Samir Acherar
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, LCPM, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Céline Frochot
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, LRGP, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | | | - Benoît Guillot
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRM2, F-54000 Nancy, France; (I.G.); (E.M.); (B.G.)
| | - Frédérique Favier
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRM2, F-54000 Nancy, France; (I.G.); (E.M.); (B.G.)
| | - Claude Didierjean
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRM2, F-54000 Nancy, France; (I.G.); (E.M.); (B.G.)
| | - Christian Jelsch
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRM2, F-54000 Nancy, France; (I.G.); (E.M.); (B.G.)
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11
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Stratton HJ, Boinon L, Gomez K, Martin L, Duran P, Ran D, Zhou Y, Luo S, Perez-Miller S, Patek M, Ibrahim MM, Patwardhan A, Moutal A, Khanna R. Targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor A/neuropilin 1 axis for relief of neuropathic pain. Pain 2023; 164:1473-1488. [PMID: 36729125 PMCID: PMC10277229 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) is a pronociceptive factor that causes neuronal sensitization and pain. We reported that blocking the interaction between the membrane receptor neuropilin 1 (NRP1) and VEGF-A-blocked VEGF-A-mediated sensory neuron hyperexcitability and reduced mechanical hypersensitivity in a rodent chronic neuropathic pain model. These findings identified the NRP1-VEGF-A signaling axis for therapeutic targeting of chronic pain. In an in-silico screening of approximately 480 K small molecules binding to the extracellular b1b2 pocket of NRP1, we identified 9 chemical series, with 6 compounds disrupting VEGF-A binding to NRP1. The small molecule with greatest efficacy, 4'-methyl-2'-morpholino-2-(phenylamino)-[4,5'-bipyrimidin]-6(1H)-one, designated NRP1-4, was selected for further evaluation. In cultured primary sensory neurons, VEGF-A enhanced excitability and decreased firing threshold, which was blocked by NRP1-4. In addition, NaV1.7 and CaV2.2 currents and membrane expression were potentiated by treatment with VEGF-A, and this potentiation was blocked by NRP1-4 cotreatment. Neuropilin 1-4 reduced VEGF-A-mediated increases in the frequency and amplitude of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents in dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Neuropilin 1-4 did not bind to more than 300 G-protein-coupled receptors and receptors including human opioids receptors, indicating a favorable safety profile. In rats with spared nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain, intrathecal administration of NRP1-4 significantly attenuated mechanical allodynia. Intravenous treatment with NRP1-4 reversed both mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in rats with L5/L6 spinal nerve ligation-induced neuropathic pain. Collectively, our findings show that NRP1-4 is a first-in-class compound targeting the NRP1-VEGF-A signaling axis to control voltage-gated ion channel function, neuronal excitability, and synaptic activity that curb chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison J. Stratton
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona; Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Lisa Boinon
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona; Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Kimberly Gomez
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
- NYU Pain Research Center, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY 10010, United States of America
| | - Laurent Martin
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona; Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Paz Duran
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
- NYU Pain Research Center, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY 10010, United States of America
| | - Dongzhi Ran
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona; Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona; Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Shizhen Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona; Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Samantha Perez-Miller
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
- NYU Pain Research Center, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY 10010, United States of America
| | - Marcel Patek
- BrightRock Path, LLC, Tucson, Arizona 85704, United States
| | - Mohab M. Ibrahim
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona; Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Amol Patwardhan
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona; Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Aubin Moutal
- Saint Louis University - School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, 1402 S. Grand Blvd., Schwitalla Hall, Room 432, Saint Louis, MO 63104
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
- NYU Pain Research Center, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY 10010, United States of America
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12
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Kendle W, Hoang K, Korleski E, Panfil AR, Polakowski N, Lemasson I. Upregulation of Neuropilin-1 Inhibits HTLV-1 Infection. Pathogens 2023; 12:831. [PMID: 37375521 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12060831] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection with human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) can produce a spectrum of pathological effects ranging from inflammatory disorders to leukemia. In vivo, HTLV-1 predominantly infects CD4+ T-cells. Infectious spread within this population involves the transfer of HTLV-1 virus particles from infected cells to target cells only upon cell-to-cell contact. The viral protein, HBZ, was found to enhance HTLV-1 infection through transcriptional activation of ICAM1 and MYOF, two genes that facilitate viral infection. In this study, we found that HBZ upregulates the transcription of COL4A1, GEM, and NRP1. COL4A1 and GEM are genes involved in viral infection, while NRP1, which encodes neuropilin 1 (Nrp1), serves as an HTLV-1 receptor on target cells but has no reported function on HTLV-1-infected cells. With a focus on Nrp1, cumulative results from chromatin immunoprecipitation assays and analyses of HBZ mutants support a model in which HBZ upregulates NRP1 transcription by augmenting recruitment of Jun proteins to an enhancer downstream of the gene. Results from in vitro infection assays demonstrate that Nrp1 expressed on HTLV-1-infected cells inhibits viral infection. Nrp1 was found to be incorporated into HTLV-1 virions, and deletion of its ectodomain removed the inhibitory effect. These results suggest that inhibition of HTLV-1 infection by Nrp1 is caused by the ectodomain of Nrp1 extended from virus particles, which may inhibit the binding of virus particles to target cells. While HBZ has been found to enhance HTLV-1 infection using cell-based models, there may be certain circumstances in which activation of Nrp1 expression negatively impacts viral infection, which is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley Kendle
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Kimson Hoang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Erica Korleski
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Amanda R Panfil
- Center for Retrovirus Research, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Nicholas Polakowski
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Isabelle Lemasson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
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13
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Folic Acid and Leucovorin Have Potential to Prevent SARS-CoV-2-Virus Internalization by Interacting with S-Glycoprotein/Neuropilin-1 Receptor Complex. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28052294. [PMID: 36903540 PMCID: PMC10005443 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28052294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The interaction of the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) glycoprotein receptor-binding domain with the host-cell ACE2 receptor is a well-known step in virus infection. Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is another host factor involved in virus internalization. The interaction between S-glycoprotein and NRP-1 has been identified as a potential COVID-19 treatment target. Herein, the effectiveness of folic acid and leucovorin in preventing contact between S-glycoprotein and NRP-1 receptors was investigated using in silico studies and then confirmed in vitro. The results of a molecular docking study showed that leucovorin and folic acid had lower binding energies than EG01377, a well-known NRP-1 inhibitor, and lopinavir. Two hydrogen bonds with Asp 320 and Asn 300 residues stabilized the leucovorin, while interactions with Gly 318, Thr 349, and Tyr 353 residues stabilized the folic acid. The molecular dynamic simulation revealed that the folic acid and leucovorin created very stable complexes with the NRP-1. The in vitro studies showed that the leucovorin was the most active inhibitor of the S1-glycoprotein/NRP-1 complex formation, with an IC75 value of 185.95 µg/mL. The results of this study suggest that folic acid and leucovorin could be considered as potential inhibitors of the S-glycoprotein/NRP-1 complex and, thus, could prevent the SARS-CoV-2 virus' entry into host cells.
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14
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Larue L, Kenzhebayeva B, Al-Thiabat MG, Jouan-Hureaux V, Mohd-Gazzali A, Wahab HA, Boura C, Yeligbayeva G, Nakan U, Frochot C, Acherar S. tLyp-1: A peptide suitable to target NRP-1 receptor. Bioorg Chem 2023; 130:106200. [PMID: 36332316 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.106200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEFGR) and its co-receptor neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is an interesting vascular strategy. tLyp-1 is a tumor-homing and penetrating peptide of 7 amino acids (CGNKRTR). It is a truncated form of Lyp-1 (CGNKRTRGC), which is known to target NRP-1 receptor, with high affinity and specificity. It is mediated by endocytosis via C-end rule (CendR) internalization pathway. The aim of this study is to evaluate the importance of each amino acid in the tLyp-1 sequence through alanine-scanning (Ala-scan) technique, during which each of the amino acid in the sequence was systematically replaced by alanine to produce 7 different analogues. In silico approach through molecular docking and molecular dynamics are employed to understand the interaction between the peptide and its analogues with the NRP-1 receptor, followed by in vitro ligand binding assay study. The C-terminal Arg is crucial in the interaction of tLyp-1 with NRP-1 receptor. Substituting this residue dramatically reduces the affinity of this peptide which is clearly seen in this study. Lys-4 is also important in the interaction, which is confirmed via the in vitro study and the MM-PBSA analysis. The finding in this study supports the CendR, in which the presence of R/K-XX-R/K motif is essential in the binding of a ligand with NRP-1 receptor. This presented work will serve as a guide in the future work pertaining the development of active targeting agent towards NRP-1 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludivine Larue
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, LCPM, F-54000 Nancy, France; Université de Lorraine, CNRS, LRGP, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Bibigul Kenzhebayeva
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, LCPM, F-54000 Nancy, France; Institute of Geology and Oil-gas Business, Satbayev University, Almaty 050013, Kazakhstan
| | - Mohammad G Al-Thiabat
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Malaysia
| | | | - Amirah Mohd-Gazzali
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Habibah A Wahab
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Cédric Boura
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRAN, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Gulzhakhan Yeligbayeva
- Institute of Geology and Oil-gas Business, Satbayev University, Almaty 050013, Kazakhstan
| | - Ulantay Nakan
- Institute of Geology and Oil-gas Business, Satbayev University, Almaty 050013, Kazakhstan
| | - Céline Frochot
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, LRGP, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Samir Acherar
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, LCPM, F-54000 Nancy, France.
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15
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Neuropilin-1 Mediates SARS-CoV-2 Infection of Astrocytes in Brain Organoids, Inducing Inflammation Leading to Dysfunction and Death of Neurons. mBio 2022; 13:e0230822. [PMID: 36314791 PMCID: PMC9765283 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02308-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is frequently associated with neurological deficits, but how severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) induces these effects remains unclear. Here, we show that astrocytes are readily infected by SARS-CoV-2, but surprisingly, neuropilin-1, not angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), serves as the principal receptor mediating cell entry. Infection is further positively modulated by the two-pore segment channel 2 (TPC2) protein that regulates membrane trafficking and endocytosis. Astrocyte infection produces a pathological response closely resembling reactive astrogliosis characterized by elevated type I interferon (IFN) production, increased inflammation, and the decreased expression of transporters of water, ions, choline, and neurotransmitters. These combined events initiated within astrocytes produce a hostile microenvironment that promotes the dysfunction and death of uninfected bystander neurons. IMPORTANCE SARS-CoV-2 infection primarily targets the lung but may also damage other organs, including the brain, heart, kidney, and intestine. Central nervous system (CNS) pathologies include loss of smell and taste, headache, delirium, acute psychosis, seizures, and stroke. Pathological loss of gray matter occurs in SARS-CoV-2 infection, but it is unclear whether this is due to direct viral infection, indirect effects associated with systemic inflammation, or both. Here, we used induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived brain organoids and primary human astrocytes from the cerebral cortex to study direct SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our findings support a model where SARS-CoV-2 infection of astrocytes produces a panoply of changes in the expression of genes regulating innate immune signaling and inflammatory responses. The deregulation of these genes in astrocytes produces a microenvironment within the CNS that ultimately disrupts normal neuron function, promoting neuronal cell death and CNS deficits.
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16
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Benwell CJ, Johnson RT, Taylor JA, Price CA, Robinson SD. Endothelial VEGFR Coreceptors Neuropilin-1 and Neuropilin-2 Are Essential for Tumor Angiogenesis. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 2:1626-1640. [PMID: 36970722 PMCID: PMC10036134 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-22-0250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neuropilin (NRP) expression is highly correlated with poor outcome in multiple cancer subtypes. As known coreceptors for VEGFRs, core drivers of angiogenesis, past investigations have alluded to their functional roles in facilitating tumorigenesis by promoting invasive vessel growth. Despite this, it remains unclear as to whether NRP1 and NRP2 act in a synergistic manner to enhance pathologic angiogenesis. Here we demonstrate, using NRP1 ECKO , NRP2 ECKO , and NRP1/NRP2 ECKO mouse models, that maximum inhibition of primary tumor development and angiogenesis is achieved when both endothelial NRP1 and NRP2 are targeted simultaneously. Metastasis and secondary site angiogenesis were also significantly inhibited in NRP1/NRP2 ECKO animals. Mechanistic studies revealed that codepleting NRP1 and NRP2 in mouse-microvascular endothelial cells stimulates rapid shuttling of VEGFR-2 to Rab7+ endosomes for proteosomal degradation. Our results highlight the importance of targeting both NRP1 and NRP2 to modulate tumor angiogenesis. Significance The findings presented in this study demonstrate that tumor angiogenesis and growth can be arrested completely by cotargeting endothelial NRP1 and NRP2. We provide new insight into the mechanisms of action regulating NRP-dependent tumor angiogenesis and signpost a novel approach to halt tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Benwell
- Gut Microbes and Health Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Robert T. Johnson
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - James A.G.E. Taylor
- Gut Microbes and Health Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher A. Price
- Gut Microbes and Health Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen D. Robinson
- Gut Microbes and Health Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich, United Kingdom
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
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17
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Shan F, Somasundaram A, Bruno TC, Workman CJ, Vignali DAA. Therapeutic targeting of regulatory T cells in cancer. Trends Cancer 2022; 8:944-961. [PMID: 35853825 PMCID: PMC9588644 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The success of immunotherapy in oncology underscores the vital role of the immune system in cancer development. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) maintain a fine balance between autoimmunity and immune suppression. They have multiple roles in the tumor microenvironment (TME) but act particularly in suppressing T cell activation. This review focuses on the detrimental and sometimes beneficial roles of Tregs in tumors, our current understanding of recruitment and stabilization of Tregs within the TME, and current Treg-targeted therapeutics. Research identifying subpopulations of Tregs and their respective functions and interactions within the complex networks of the TME will be crucial to develop the next generation of immunotherapies. Through these advances, Treg-targeted immunotherapy could have important implications for the future of oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Shan
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Ashwin Somasundaram
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Tullia C Bruno
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA; Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Creg J Workman
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Dario A A Vignali
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA; Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA.
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18
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Zheng C, Wang H, Zhao S, Ma C, Gao H, Yang F, Zhou X, Lu J, Zhang C, Zhu H. Inhibition of neuropilin-1 enhances the therapeutic effects of lenvatinib in suppressing cholangiocarcinoma cells via the c-Met pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 935:175290. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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19
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Immunoregulatory signal networks and tumor immune evasion mechanisms: insights into therapeutic targets and agents in clinical development. Biochem J 2022; 479:2219-2260. [DOI: 10.1042/bcj20210233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Through activation of immune cells, the immune system is responsible for identifying and destroying infected or otherwise damaged cells including tumorigenic cells that can be recognized as foreign, thus maintaining homeostasis. However, tumor cells have evolved several mechanisms to avoid immune cell detection and killing, resulting in tumor growth and progression. In the tumor microenvironment, tumor infiltrating immune cells are inactivated by soluble factors or tumor promoting conditions and lose their effects on tumor cells. Analysis of signaling and crosstalk between immune cells and tumor cells have helped us to understand in more detail the mechanisms of tumor immune evasion and this forms basis for drug development strategies in the area of cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we will summarize the dominant signaling networks involved in immune escape and describe the status of development of therapeutic strategies to target tumor immune evasion mechanisms with focus on how the tumor microenvironment interacts with T cells.
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20
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Zemla AT, Allen JE, Kirshner D, Lightstone FC. PDBspheres: a method for finding 3D similarities in local regions in proteins. NAR Genom Bioinform 2022; 4:lqac078. [PMID: 36225529 PMCID: PMC9549786 DOI: 10.1093/nargab/lqac078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a structure-based method for finding and evaluating structural similarities in protein regions relevant to ligand binding. PDBspheres comprises an exhaustive library of protein structure regions ('spheres') adjacent to complexed ligands derived from the Protein Data Bank (PDB), along with methods to find and evaluate structural matches between a protein of interest and spheres in the library. PDBspheres uses the LGA (Local-Global Alignment) structure alignment algorithm as the main engine for detecting structural similarities between the protein of interest and template spheres from the library, which currently contains >2 million spheres. To assess confidence in structural matches, an all-atom-based similarity metric takes side chain placement into account. Here, we describe the PDBspheres method, demonstrate its ability to detect and characterize binding sites in protein structures, show how PDBspheres-a strictly structure-based method-performs on a curated dataset of 2528 ligand-bound and ligand-free crystal structures, and use PDBspheres to cluster pockets and assess structural similarities among protein binding sites of 4876 structures in the 'refined set' of the PDBbind 2019 dataset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam T Zemla
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +1 925 423 5571; Fax: +1 925 423 6437;
| | - Jonathan E Allen
- Global Security Computing Applications, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Dan Kirshner
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Felice C Lightstone
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
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21
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Faraj JA, Al-Athari AJH, Mohie SED, Kadhim IK, Jawad NM, Abbas WJ, Jalil AT. Reprogramming the tumor microenvironment to improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies. MEDICAL ONCOLOGY (NORTHWOOD, LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 39:239. [PMID: 36175691 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-022-01842-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The immunotherapeutic approaches based on checkpoint inhibitors, tumor vaccination, immune cell-based therapy, and cytokines were developed to engage the patient's immune system against cancer and better survival of them. While potent, however, preclinical and clinical data have identified that abnormalities in the tumor microenvironment (TME) can affect the efficacy of immunotherapies in some cancers. It is therefore imperative to develop new therapeutic interventions that will enable to overcome tumor-supportive TME and restrain anti-tumor immunity in patients that acquire resistance to current immunotherapies. Therefore, recognition of the essential nature of the tolerogenic TME may lead to a shift from the immune-suppressive TME to an immune-stimulating phenotype. Here, we review the composition of the TME and its effect on tumor immunoediting and then present how targeted monotherapy or combination therapies can be employed for reprogramming educated TME to improve current immunotherapies outcomes or elucidate potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jabar A Faraj
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Hilla, Babylon, 51001, Iraq
| | | | - Sharaf El Din Mohie
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Hilla, Babylon, 51001, Iraq
| | - Iman Kareem Kadhim
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Hilla, Babylon, 51001, Iraq
| | - Noor Muhsen Jawad
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Hilla, Babylon, 51001, Iraq
| | - Weaam J Abbas
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Hilla, Babylon, 51001, Iraq
| | - Abduladheem Turki Jalil
- Medical Laboratories Techniques Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Hilla, Babylon, 51001, Iraq.
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22
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Neuropilin (NRPs) Related Pathological Conditions and Their Modulators. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158402. [PMID: 35955539 PMCID: PMC9368954 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin 1 (NRP1) represents one of the two homologous neuropilins (NRP, splice variants of neuropilin 2 are the other) found in all vertebrates. It forms a transmembrane glycoprotein distributed in many human body tissues as a (co)receptor for a variety of different ligands. In addition to its physiological role, it is also associated with various pathological conditions. Recently, NRP1 has been discovered as a coreceptor for the SARS-CoV-2 viral entry, along with ACE2, and has thus become one of the COVID-19 research foci. However, in addition to COVID-19, the current review also summarises its other pathological roles and its involvement in clinical diseases like cancer and neuropathic pain. We also discuss the diversity of native NRP ligands and perform a joint analysis. Last but not least, we review the therapeutic roles of NRP1 and introduce a series of NRP1 modulators, which are typical peptidomimetics or other small molecule antagonists, to provide the medicinal chemistry community with a state-of-the-art overview of neuropilin modulator design and NRP1 druggability assessment.
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23
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Novel Small-Molecule Inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Binding to Neuropilin 1. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15020165. [PMID: 35215277 PMCID: PMC8879887 DOI: 10.3390/ph15020165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Furin cleavage of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein results in a polybasic terminal sequence termed the C-end rule (CendR), which is responsible for the binding to neuropilin 1 (NRP1), enhancing viral infectivity and entry into the cell. Here we report the identification of 20 small-molecule inhibitors that emerged from a virtual screening of nearly 950,000 drug-like compounds that bind with high probability to the CendR-binding pocket of NRP1. In a spike NRP1 binding assay, two of these compounds displayed a stronger inhibition of spike protein binding to NRP1 than the known NRP1 antagonist EG00229, for which the inhibition of the CendR peptide binding to NRP1 was also experimentally confirmed. These compounds present a good starting point for the design of small-molecule antagonists against the SARS-CoV-2 viral entry.
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24
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Mota F, Yelland T, Hutton JA, Parker J, Patsiarika A, Chan AWE, O'Leary A, Fotinou C, Martin JF, Zachary IC, Djordjevic S, Frankel P, Selwood DL. Peptides Derived from Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor B Show Potent Binding to Neuropilin-1. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202100463. [PMID: 34647407 PMCID: PMC8776337 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202100463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) regulate significant pathways in angiogenesis, myocardial and neuronal protection, metabolism, and cancer progression. The VEGF-B growth factor is involved in cell survival, anti-apoptotic and antioxidant mechanisms, through binding to VEGF receptor 1 and neuropilin-1 (NRP1). We employed surface plasmon resonance technology and X-ray crystallography to analyse the molecular basis of the interaction between VEGF-B and the b1 domain of NRP1, and developed VEGF-B C-terminus derived peptides to be used as chemical tools for studying VEGF-B - NRP1 related pathways. Peptide lipidation was used as a means to stabilise the peptides. VEGF-B-derived peptides containing a C-terminal arginine show potent binding to NRP1-b1. Peptide lipidation increased binding residence time and improved plasma stability. A crystal structure of a peptide with NRP1 demonstrated that VEGF-B peptides bind at the canonical C-terminal arginine binding site. VEGF-B C-terminus imparts higher affinity for NRP1 than the corresponding VEGF-A165 region. This tight binding may impact on the activity and selectivity of the full-length protein. The VEGF-B167 derived peptides were more effective than VEGF-A165 peptides in blocking functional phosphorylation events. Blockers of VEGF-B function have potential applications in diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Mota
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical ResearchUniversity College LondonGower StreetLondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Tamas Yelland
- The Institute of Structural and Molecular BiologyUniversity College LondonUK
| | - Jennie A. Hutton
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical ResearchUniversity College LondonGower StreetLondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Jennifer Parker
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology & MedicineBHF Laboratories at University College LondonUK
| | - Anastasia Patsiarika
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical ResearchUniversity College LondonGower StreetLondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - A. W. Edith Chan
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical ResearchUniversity College LondonGower StreetLondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Andrew O'Leary
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology & MedicineBHF Laboratories at University College LondonUK
| | - Constantina Fotinou
- The Institute of Structural and Molecular BiologyUniversity College LondonUK
| | - John F. Martin
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology & MedicineBHF Laboratories at University College LondonUK
| | - Ian C. Zachary
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology & MedicineBHF Laboratories at University College LondonUK
| | - Snezana Djordjevic
- The Institute of Structural and Molecular BiologyUniversity College LondonUK
| | - Paul Frankel
- Institute of Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity College LondonUK
| | - David L. Selwood
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical ResearchUniversity College LondonGower StreetLondonWC1E 6BTUK
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25
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Gül Ş. In silico drug repositioning against human NRP1 to block SARS-CoV-2 host entry. Turk J Biol 2021; 45:442-458. [PMID: 34803446 PMCID: PMC8573850 DOI: 10.3906/biy-2012-52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite COVID-19 turned into a pandemic, no approved drug for the treatment or globally available vaccine is out yet. In such a global emergency, drug repurposing approach that bypasses a costly and long-time demanding drug discovery process is an effective way in search of finding drugs for the COVID-19 treatment. Recent studies showed that SARS-CoV-2 uses neuropilin-1 (NRP1) for host entry. Here we took advantage of structural information of the NRP1 in complex with C-terminal of spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 to identify drugs that may inhibit NRP1 and S protein interaction. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved drugs were screened using docking simulations. Among top drugs, well-tolerated drugs were selected for further analysis. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of drugs-NRP1 complexes were run for 100 ns to assess the persistency of binding. MM/GBSA calculations from MD simulations showed that eltrombopag, glimepiride, sitagliptin, dutasteride, and ergotamine stably and strongly bind to NRP1. In silico Alanine scanning analysis revealed that Tyr297, Trp301, and Tyr353 amino acids of NRP1 are critical for drug binding. Validating the effect of drugs analyzed in this paper by experimental studies and clinical trials will expedite the drug discovery process for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şeref Gül
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Koç University, İstanbul Turkey.,Biotechnology Division, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, İstanbul University, İstanbul Turkey
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26
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Li D, Zhang Z, Xia C, Niu C, Zhou W. Non-Coding RNAs in Glioma Microenvironment and Angiogenesis. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:763610. [PMID: 34803608 PMCID: PMC8595242 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.763610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioma, especially glioblastoma, is the most common and lethal brain tumor. In line with the complicated vascularization processes and the strong intratumoral heterogeneity, tumor-associated blood vessels in glioma are regulated by multiple types of cells through a variety of molecular mechanisms. Components of the tumor microenvironment, including tumor cells and tumor-associated stromata, produce various types of molecular mediators to regulate glioma angiogenesis. As critical regulatory molecules, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) inside cells or secreted to the tumor microenvironment play essential roles in glioma angiogenesis. In this review, we briefly summarize recent studies about the production, delivery, and functions of ncRNAs in the tumor microenvironment, as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of angiogenesis by ncRNAs. We also discuss the ncRNA-based therapeutic strategies in the anti-angiogenic therapy for glioma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongxue Li
- Intelligent Pathology Institute, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Basic Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chengyu Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Chaoshi Niu
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Wenchao Zhou
- Intelligent Pathology Institute, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Department of Pathology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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27
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Gao Y, Zhang X, Wang Z, Qiu Y, Liu Y, Shou S, Chai Y. The contribution of neuropilin-1 in the stability of CD4 + CD25 + regulatory T cells through the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway in the presence of lipopolysaccharides. IMMUNITY INFLAMMATION AND DISEASE 2021; 10:143-154. [PMID: 34758202 PMCID: PMC8767517 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Introduction This study investigates the synergistic effect of TGF‐β1 and Nrp‐1 on CD4+CD25+ Tregs' stabilization, and the associated pathways of signal transduction, in vitro models in the presence of LPS. Materials and Methods Spleen CD4+CD25+ Tregs cells of mice models in the presence of LPS, were transfected with an shRNA targeting Nrp‐1, Smad2, or Smad3, may or may not be treated with recombinant TGF‐β1. Followed by subsequent determination of cellular proliferation, rate of apoptosis, observation of the Foxp3, CTLA‐4, and TGF‐β1m+ expression levels, foxp3‐TSDR methylation, secretion levels of the inhibitory cytokines IL‐10 and TGF‐β1, and Smad2/3 of CD4+CD25+ Tregs expression. Results A remarkable stimulation in CD4+CD25+ Tregs' stability is noted after administering recombinant TGF‐β1 in the presence of LPS, and promoted cellular viability, increased Foxp3, CTLA‐4, and TGF‐β1m+ expression, and elevated secretion of IL‐10 and TGF‐β1. This also inhibited the apoptosis and methylation of foxp3‐ TSDR of CD4+CD25+ Tregs. The shRNA transfection silenced Nrp‐1 and Smad3, but not Smad2, resulting in the suppression of the recombinant TGF‐β1‐mediated effects in the presence of LPS. Conclusions According to the results, Nrp‐1 mediates TGF‐β1 to improve the stability of regulatory CD4+CD25+ T cells and maybe a possible therapeutic target with the ability to improve the CD4+CD25+ Tregs associated negative immunoregulation that is related to the TGF‐β1/Smads cell signaling during sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulei Gao
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rizhao People's Hospital of Shandong Province, Rizhao, PR China
| | - Ziyi Wang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Yuting Qiu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Yancun Liu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Songtao Shou
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Yanfen Chai
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China
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28
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Chuckran CA, Liu C, Bruno TC, Workman CJ, Vignali DA. Neuropilin-1: a checkpoint target with unique implications for cancer immunology and immunotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 8:jitc-2020-000967. [PMID: 32675311 PMCID: PMC7368550 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-000967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Checkpoint blockade immunotherapy established a new paradigm in cancer treatment: for certain patients curative treatment requires immune reinvigoration. Despite this monumental advance, only 20%–30% of patients achieve an objective response to standard of care immunotherapy, necessitating the consideration of alternative targets. Optimal strategies will not only stimulate CD8+ T cells, but concomitantly modulate immunosuppressive cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), most notably regulatory T cells (Treg cells). In this context, the immunoregulatory receptor Neuropilin-1 (NRP1) is garnering renewed attention as it reinforces intratumoral Treg cell function amidst inflammation in the TME. Loss of NRP1 on Treg cells in mouse models restores antitumor immunity without sacrificing peripheral tolerance. Enrichment of NRP1+ Treg cells is observed in patients across multiple malignancies with cancer, both intratumorally and in peripheral sites. Thus, targeting NRP1 may safely undermine intratumoral Treg cell fitness, permitting enhanced inflammatory responses with existing immunotherapies. Furthermore, NRP1 has been recently found to modulate tumor-specific CD8+ T cell responses. Emerging data suggest that NRP1 restricts CD8+ T cell reinvigoration in response to checkpoint inhibitors, and more importantly, acts as a barrier to the long-term durability of CD8+ T cell-mediated tumor immunosurveillance. These novel and distinct regulatory mechanisms present an exciting therapeutic opportunity. This review will discuss the growing literature on NRP1-mediated immune modulation which provides a strong rationale for categorizing NRP1 as both a key checkpoint in the TME as well as an immunotherapeutic target with promise either alone or in combination with current standard of care therapeutic regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Chuckran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Tumor Microenvironment Center and the Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Graduate Program of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Tumor Microenvironment Center and the Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tullia C Bruno
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Tumor Microenvironment Center and the Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Creg J Workman
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Tumor Microenvironment Center and the Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Dario Aa Vignali
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA .,Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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29
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Abrogation of SARS-CoV-2 interaction with host (NRP1) neuropilin-1 receptor through high-affinity marine natural compounds to curtail the infectivity: A structural-dynamics data. Comput Biol Med 2021; 141:104714. [PMID: 34772509 PMCID: PMC8324387 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.104714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The evolution of new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants around the globe has made the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic more worrisome, pressuring the health care system and resulting in an increased mortality rate. Recent studies recognized neuropilin-1 (NRP1) as a key facilitator in the invasion of the new SARS-CoV-2 into the host cell. Therefore, it is considered an imperative drug target for the treatment of COVID-19. Hence, a thorough analysis was needed to understand the impact and to guide new therapeutics development. In this study, we used structural and biomolecular simulation techniques to identify novel marine natural products which could block this receptor and stop the virus entry. We discovered that the binding affinity of CMNPD10175, CMNPD10017, CMNPD10114, CMNPD10115, CMNPD10020. CMNPD10018, CMNPD10153, CMNPD10149 CMNPD10464 and CMNPD10019 were substantial during the virtual screening (VS). We further explored these compounds by analyzing their absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion and toxicity (ADMET) properties and structural-dynamics features. Free energy calculations further established that all the compounds exhibit stronger binding energy for NRP1. Consequently, we hypothesized that these compounds might be the best lead candidates for therapeutic interventions hindering virus binding to the host cell. This study provides a strong impetus to develop novel drugs against the SARS-CoV-2 by targeting NRP1.
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30
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Saleki K, Banazadeh M, Miri NS, Azadmehr A. Triangle of cytokine storm, central nervous system involvement, and viral infection in COVID-19: the role of sFasL and neuropilin-1. Rev Neurosci 2021; 33:147-160. [PMID: 34225390 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2021-0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) is identified as the cause of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and is often linked to extreme inflammatory responses by over activation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), cytokine storm, and sepsis. These are robust causes for multi-organ damage. In particular, potential routes of SARS-CoV2 entry, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), have been linked to central nervous system (CNS) involvement. CNS has been recognized as one of the most susceptible compartments to cytokine storm, which can be affected by neuropilin-1 (NRP-1). ACE2 is widely-recognized as a SARS-CoV2 entry pathway; However, NRP-1 has been recently introduced as a novel path of viral entry. Apoptosis of cells invaded by this virus involves Fas receptor-Fas ligand (FasL) signaling; moreover, Fas receptor may function as a controller of inflammation. Furthermore, NRP-1 may influence FasL and modulate cytokine profile. The neuroimmunological insult by SARS-CoV2 infection may be inhibited by therapeutic approaches targeting soluble Fas ligand (sFasL), cytokine storm elements, or related viral entry pathways. In the current review, we explain pivotal players behind the activation of cytokine storm that are associated with vast CNS injury. We also hypothesize that sFasL may affect neuroinflammatory processes and trigger the cytokine storm in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiarash Saleki
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, 47176-47745, Iran
- USERN Office, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, 47176-47745, Iran
- National Elite Foundation, Mazandaran Province Branch, Tehran, 48157-66435, Iran
| | - Mohammad Banazadeh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences and Cosmetic Products Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 76169-13555, Iran
| | - Niloufar Sadat Miri
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, 47176-47745, Iran
| | - Abbas Azadmehr
- National Elite Foundation, Mazandaran Province Branch, Tehran, 48157-66435, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, 47176-47745, Iran
- Medical Immunology Department, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, 47176-47745, Iran
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31
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Douyère M, Chastagner P, Boura C. Neuropilin-1: A Key Protein to Consider in the Progression of Pediatric Brain Tumors. Front Oncol 2021; 11:665634. [PMID: 34277411 PMCID: PMC8281001 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.665634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropilins are transmembrane glycoproteins that play important roles in cardiovascular and neuronal development, as well as in immunological system regulations. NRP1 functions as a co-receptor, binding numerous ligands, such as SEMA 3 or VEGF and, by doing so, reinforcing their signaling pathways and can also interface with the cytoplasmic protein synectin. NRP1 is expressed in many cancers, such as brain cancers, and is associated with poor prognosis. The challenge today for patients with pediatric brain tumors is to improve their survival rate while minimizing the toxicity of current treatments. The aim of this review is to highlight the involvement of NRP1 in pediatric brain cancers, focusing essentially on the roles of NRP1 in cancer stem cells and in the regulation of the immune system. For this purpose, recent literature and tumor databases were analyzed to show correlations between NRP1 and CD15 (a stem cancer cells marker), and between NRP1 and PDL1, for various pediatric brain tumors, such as high- and low-grade gliomas, medulloblastomas, and ependymomas. Finally, this review suggests a relevant role for NRP1 in pediatric brain tumors progression and identifies it as a potential diagnostic or therapeutic target to improve survival and life quality of these young patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pascal Chastagner
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRAN, Nancy, France.,Service d'Onco-Hématologie Pédiatrique, CHRU-Nancy, Nancy, France
| | - Cédric Boura
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, CRAN, Nancy, France
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32
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Jin H, Zheng W, Hou J, Peng H, Zhuo H. An Essential NRP1-Mediated Role for Tagln2 in Gastric Cancer Angiogenesis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:653246. [PMID: 34150622 PMCID: PMC8213069 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.653246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge about the precise biological role and underlying mechanism of Tagln2 in tumor progression is relatively limited, especially in angiogenesis focused on tumor derived endothelial cells (ECs) has rarely been reported. Here, the function, molecular mechanism and potential clinical value of Tagln2 in gastric cancer (GC) angiogenesis were investigated. GC tissue microarrays were used to assess the expression of Tagln2 in ECs. The relationships between expression and clinicopathological features were analyzed to evaluate the clinical value of Tagln2. Gain- and loss-of-function approaches were performed in ECs to investigate the functions of Tagln2 in angiogenesis. A combination of angiogenesis antibody array, RNA-Seq analyses and a series of in vitro experiments were performed to reveal the proangiogenic mechanism mediated by NRP1. Immunohistochemistry performed on an independent tissue chip (n=75) revealed significant upregulation of Tagln2 in tumor-derived ECs which were specifically immunolabeled with CD34. Additionally, high Tagln2 levels correlated significantly with the presence of lymph node as well as distant metastases. Gain- and loss-of-function approaches highlighted the function of Tagln2 in promoting EC proliferation, motility, and capillary-like tube formation and in reducing apoptosis. Tagln2 upregulation led to significantly increased mRNA and protein levels of NRP1 and subsequently activated the NRP1/VEGFR2 and downstream MAPK signaling pathways. These data indicate the importance of Tagln2 in angiogenesis, as a potential therapeutic target, and as a candidate prognostic marker in GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Jin
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Biomarker Translational Medicine, Medical Laboratory of Xiamen Humanity Hospital Fujian Medical University, Xiamen, China
| | - Wei Zheng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Municipal Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Xiamen, China
| | - Jingjing Hou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Municipal Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Xiamen, China
| | - Huifang Peng
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Huiqin Zhuo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Municipal Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Xiamen, China
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Khalaf K, Hana D, Chou JTT, Singh C, Mackiewicz A, Kaczmarek M. Aspects of the Tumor Microenvironment Involved in Immune Resistance and Drug Resistance. Front Immunol 2021; 12:656364. [PMID: 34122412 PMCID: PMC8190405 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.656364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and ever-changing "rogue organ" composed of its own blood supply, lymphatic and nervous systems, stroma, immune cells and extracellular matrix (ECM). These complex components, utilizing both benign and malignant cells, nurture the harsh, immunosuppressive and nutrient-deficient environment necessary for tumor cell growth, proliferation and phenotypic flexibility and variation. An important aspect of the TME is cellular crosstalk and cell-to-ECM communication. This interaction induces the release of soluble factors responsible for immune evasion and ECM remodeling, which further contribute to therapy resistance. Other aspects are the presence of exosomes contributed by both malignant and benign cells, circulating deregulated microRNAs and TME-specific metabolic patterns which further potentiate the progression and/or resistance to therapy. In addition to biochemical signaling, specific TME characteristics such as the hypoxic environment, metabolic derangements, and abnormal mechanical forces have been implicated in the development of treatment resistance. In this review, we will provide an overview of tumor microenvironmental composition, structure, and features that influence immune suppression and contribute to treatment resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalil Khalaf
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Doris Hana
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Jadzia Tin-Tsen Chou
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Chandpreet Singh
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Andrzej Mackiewicz
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Mariusz Kaczmarek
- Department of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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Molecular basis of the new COVID-19 target neuropilin-1 in complex with SARS-CoV-2 S1 C-end rule peptide and small-molecule antagonists. J Mol Liq 2021; 335:116537. [PMID: 34031621 PMCID: PMC8133821 DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2021.116537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), responsible for causing the current coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, uses its spike (S1) protein for host cell attachment and entry. Apart from angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, neuropilin-1 (NRP1) has been recently found to serve as another host factor for SARS-CoV-2 infection; thus, blocking S1-NRP1 interaction can be a potential treatment for COVID-19. Herein, molecular recognition between SARS-CoV-2 S1 C-end rule (CendR) heptapeptide including small-molecule antagonists (EG00229 and EG01377) and the NRP1 was investigated using molecular dynamics simulations and binding free energy calculations based on MM-PBSA method. The binding affinity and the number of hot-spot residues of EG01377/NRP1 complex were higher than those of CendR/NRP1 and EG00229/NRP1 systems, in line with the reported experimental data as well as with the lower water accessibility at the ligand-binding site. The (i) T316, P317, and D320 and (ii) S346, T349, and Y353 residues of NRP1 were confirmed to respectively form H-bonds with the positively charged guanidinium group and the negatively charged carboxyl moiety of all studied ligands. Moreover, Rosetta protein design was employed to improve the binding affinity between CendR peptide and NRP1. The newly designed peptides, especially R683G and A684M, exhibited higher binding efficiency than the native CendR heptapeptide as well as the small-molecule EG00229 by forming more H-bonds and hydrophobic interactions with NPR1, suggesting that these designed peptides could be promising NRP1 inhibitors to combat SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Perez-Miller S, Patek M, Moutal A, de Haro PD, Cabel CR, Thorne CA, Campos SK, Khanna R. Novel Compounds Targeting Neuropilin Receptor 1 with Potential To Interfere with SARS-CoV-2 Virus Entry. ACS Chem Neurosci 2021; 12:1299-1312. [PMID: 33787218 PMCID: PMC8029449 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.0c00619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is a multifunctional transmembrane receptor for ligands that affect developmental axonal growth and angiogenesis. In addition to a role in cancer, NRP-1 is a reported entry point for several viruses, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causal agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The furin cleavage product of SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein takes advantage of the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) binding site on NRP-1 which accommodates a polybasic stretch ending in a C-terminal arginine. This site has long been a focus of drug discovery efforts for cancer therapeutics. We recently showed that interruption of the VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling pathway ameliorates neuropathic pain and hypothesize that interference of this pathway by SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein interferes with pain signaling. Here, we report confirmed hits from a small molecule and natural product screen of nearly 0.5 million compounds targeting the VEGF-A binding site on NRP-1. We identified nine chemical series with lead- or drug-like physicochemical properties. Using ELISA, we demonstrate that six compounds disrupt VEGF-A-NRP-1 binding more effectively than EG00229, a known NRP-1 inhibitor. Secondary validation in cells revealed that all tested compounds inhibited VEGF-A triggered VEGFR2 phosphorylation. Further, two compounds displayed robust inhibition of a recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus protein that utilizes the SARS-CoV-2 Spike for entry and fusion. These compounds represent a first step in a renewed effort to develop small molecule inhibitors of the VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling for the treatment of neuropathic pain and cancer with the added potential of inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 virus entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Perez-Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, The University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Marcel Patek
- Bright Rock Path Consulting, LLC, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Paz Duran de Haro
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Carly R. Cabel
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona
- Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, University of Arizona
| | - Curtis A. Thorne
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona
- Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, University of Arizona
- Bio5 Institute, University of Arizona
| | - Samuel K. Campos
- Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, University of Arizona
- Bio5 Institute, University of Arizona
- Department of Immunobiology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, The University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, Arizona, USA
- Regulonix LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA
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Vique-Sánchez JL. Potential inhibitors interacting in Neuropilin-1 to develop an adjuvant drug against COVID-19, by molecular docking. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 33:116040. [PMID: 33515918 PMCID: PMC7826060 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic continues without specific treatment. In this study it is proposed compounds that can be developed as adjuvant / complementary drugs against COVID-19. Through a search for molecular docking, for the development of a new drug using pharmacological compounds targeting the b1 region in neuropilin-1 (NRP1), which is important for the interaction with the S1 region of the S-Protein of SARS-CoV-2, to slow down the infection process of this virus. A molecular docking was performed using almost 500,000 compounds targeted to interact in the region between amino acids (Thr316, Asp320, Ser346, Thr349, and Tyr353) in NRP1 to determine compounds able to hinder the interaction with the S1 region in the S-Protein. In this study, ten compounds are proposed as potential inhibitors between S1 region in the S-Protein of SARS-CoV-2 with the b1 region in NRP1, to develop a new adjuvant / complementary drug against COVID-19, and to hinder the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and human cells, with a high probability to be safe in humans, validated by web servers for prediction of ADME and toxicity (PreADMET).
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Affiliation(s)
- José Luis Vique-Sánchez
- Facultad de Medicina Mexicali, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Mexicali, BC, México.
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37
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Moutal A, Martin LF, Boinon L, Gomez K, Ran D, Zhou Y, Stratton HJ, Cai S, Luo S, Gonzalez KB, Perez-Miller S, Patwardhan A, Ibrahim MM, Khanna R. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein co-opts VEGF-A/neuropilin-1 receptor signaling to induce analgesia. Pain 2021; 162:243-252. [PMID: 33009246 PMCID: PMC7737878 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 continues unabated. Binding of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2's spike protein to host angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 triggers viral entry, but other proteins may participate, including the neuropilin-1 receptor (NRP-1). Because both spike protein and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A)-a pronociceptive and angiogenic factor, bind NRP-1, we tested whether spike could block VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling. VEGF-A-triggered sensory neuron firing was blocked by spike protein and NRP-1 inhibitor EG00229. Pronociceptive behaviors of VEGF-A were similarly blocked through suppression of spontaneous spinal synaptic activity and reduction of electrogenic currents in sensory neurons. Remarkably, preventing VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling was antiallodynic in a neuropathic pain model. A "silencing" of pain through subversion of VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling may underlie increased disease transmission in asymptomatic individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laurent F. Martin
- Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Song Cai
- Departments of Pharmacology, and
| | | | | | - Samantha Perez-Miller
- Departments of Pharmacology, and
- Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Amol Patwardhan
- Departments of Pharmacology, and
- Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Mohab M. Ibrahim
- Departments of Pharmacology, and
- Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Departments of Pharmacology, and
- Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
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38
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Puszko AK, Sosnowski P, Rignault-Bricard R, Hermine O, Hopfgartner G, Pułka-Ziach K, Lepelletier Y, Misicka A. Urea-Peptide Hybrids as VEGF-A 165/NRP-1 Complex Inhibitors with Improved Receptor Affinity and Biological Properties. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010072. [PMID: 33374715 PMCID: PMC7793531 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1), the major co-receptor of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2), may also independently act with VEGF-A165 to stimulate tumour growth and metastasis. Therefore, there is great interest in compounds that can block VEGF-A165/NRP-1 interaction. Peptidomimetic type inhibitors represent a promising strategy in the treatment of NRP-1-related disorders. Here, we present the synthesis, affinity, enzymatic stability, molecular modeling and in vitro binding evaluation of the branched urea–peptide hybrids, based on our previously reported Lys(hArg)-Dab-Oic-Arg active sequence, where the Lys(hArg) branching has been modified by introducing urea units to replace the peptide bond at various positions. One of the resulting hybrids increased the affinity of the compound for NRP-1 more than 10-fold, while simultaneously improving resistance for proteolytic stability in serum. In addition, ligand binding to NRP-1 induced rapid protein stock exocytotic trafficking to the plasma membrane in breast cancer cells. Examined properties characterize this compound as a good candidate for further development of VEGF165/NRP-1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K. Puszko
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland;
- Correspondence: (A.K.P.); (A.M.)
| | - Piotr Sosnowski
- Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, University of Geneva, 24 Quai Ernest Ansermet, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (P.S.); (G.H.)
| | - Rachel Rignault-Bricard
- Imagine Institute, Université de Paris, 24 boulevard Montparnasse, 75015 Paris, France; (R.R.-B.); (O.H.); (Y.L.)
- INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Basis of Normal Hematopoiesis and Hematological Disorders: Therapeutical Implications, 24 Boulevard Montparnasse, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Olivier Hermine
- Imagine Institute, Université de Paris, 24 boulevard Montparnasse, 75015 Paris, France; (R.R.-B.); (O.H.); (Y.L.)
- INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Basis of Normal Hematopoiesis and Hematological Disorders: Therapeutical Implications, 24 Boulevard Montparnasse, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Gérard Hopfgartner
- Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, University of Geneva, 24 Quai Ernest Ansermet, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (P.S.); (G.H.)
| | | | - Yves Lepelletier
- Imagine Institute, Université de Paris, 24 boulevard Montparnasse, 75015 Paris, France; (R.R.-B.); (O.H.); (Y.L.)
- INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Basis of Normal Hematopoiesis and Hematological Disorders: Therapeutical Implications, 24 Boulevard Montparnasse, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Aleksandra Misicka
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland;
- Department of Neuropeptides, Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawinskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence: (A.K.P.); (A.M.)
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Daly JL, Simonetti B, Klein K, Chen KE, Williamson MK, Antón-Plágaro C, Shoemark DK, Simón-Gracia L, Bauer M, Hollandi R, Greber UF, Horvath P, Sessions RB, Helenius A, Hiscox JA, Teesalu T, Matthews DA, Davidson AD, Collins BM, Cullen PJ, Yamauchi Y. Neuropilin-1 is a host factor for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Science 2020; 370:861-865. [PMID: 33082294 DOI: 10.1101/2020.06.05.134114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), uses the viral spike (S) protein for host cell attachment and entry. The host protease furin cleaves the full-length precursor S glycoprotein into two associated polypeptides: S1 and S2. Cleavage of S generates a polybasic Arg-Arg-Ala-Arg carboxyl-terminal sequence on S1, which conforms to a C-end rule (CendR) motif that binds to cell surface neuropilin-1 (NRP1) and NRP2 receptors. We used x-ray crystallography and biochemical approaches to show that the S1 CendR motif directly bound NRP1. Blocking this interaction by RNA interference or selective inhibitors reduced SARS-CoV-2 entry and infectivity in cell culture. NRP1 thus serves as a host factor for SARS-CoV-2 infection and may potentially provide a therapeutic target for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- James L Daly
- School of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Boris Simonetti
- School of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK.
| | - Katja Klein
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Kai-En Chen
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Maia Kavanagh Williamson
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Carlos Antón-Plágaro
- School of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Deborah K Shoemark
- School of Biochemistry and BrisSynBio Centre, Faculty of Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Lorena Simón-Gracia
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Michael Bauer
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Reka Hollandi
- Synthetic and Systems Biology Unit, Biological Research Centre (BRC), Szeged, Hungary
| | - Urs F Greber
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Peter Horvath
- Synthetic and Systems Biology Unit, Biological Research Centre (BRC), Szeged, Hungary
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Richard B Sessions
- School of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Ari Helenius
- Institute of Biochemistry, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Julian A Hiscox
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Singapore Immunology Network, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, 138648, Singapore
| | - Tambet Teesalu
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - David A Matthews
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Andrew D Davidson
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Brett M Collins
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Peter J Cullen
- School of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK.
| | - Yohei Yamauchi
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK.
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan
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40
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Abstract
ABSTRACT Neuropilins (NRP1 and NRP2) are multifunctional receptor proteins that are involved in nerve, blood vessel, and tumor development. NRP1 was first found to be expressed in neurons, but subsequent studies have demonstrated its surface expression in cells from the endothelium and lymph nodes. NRP1 has been demonstrated to be involved in the occurrence and development of a variety of cancers. NRP1 interacts with various cytokines, such as vascular endothelial growth factor family and its receptor and transforming growth factor β1 and its receptor, to affect tumor angiogenesis, tumor proliferation, and migration. In addition, NRP1+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) play an inhibitory role in tumor immunity. High numbers of NRP1+ Tregs were associated with cancer prognosis. Targeting NRP1 has shown promise, and antagonists against NRP1 have had therapeutic efficacy in preliminary clinical studies. NRP1 treatment modalities using nanomaterials, targeted drugs, oncolytic viruses, and radio-chemotherapy have gradually been developed. Hence, we reviewed the use of NRP1 in the context of tumorigenesis, progression, and treatment.
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Berlinck RGS, Bernardi DI, Fill T, Fernandes AAG, Jurberg ID. The chemistry and biology of guanidine secondary metabolites. Nat Prod Rep 2020; 38:586-667. [PMID: 33021301 DOI: 10.1039/d0np00051e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Covering: 2017-2019Guanidine natural products isolated from microorganisms, marine invertebrates and terrestrial plants, amphibians and spiders, represented by non-ribosomal peptides, guanidine-bearing polyketides, alkaloids, terpenoids and shikimic acid derived, are the subject of this review. The topics include the discovery of new metabolites, total synthesis of natural guanidine compounds, biological activity and mechanism-of-action, biosynthesis and ecological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto G S Berlinck
- Instituto de Química de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, CP 780, CEP 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.
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42
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Perez-Miller S, Patek M, Moutal A, Cabel CR, Thorne CA, Campos SK, Khanna R. In silico identification and validation of inhibitors of the interaction between neuropilin receptor 1 and SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2020:2020.09.22.308783. [PMID: 32995772 PMCID: PMC7523098 DOI: 10.1101/2020.09.22.308783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is a multifunctional transmembrane receptor for ligands that affect developmental axonal growth and angiogenesis. In addition to a role in cancer, NRP-1 is a reported entry point for several viruses, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causal agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The furin cleavage product of SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein takes advantage of the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) binding site on NRP-1 which accommodates a polybasic stretch ending in a C-terminal arginine. This site has long been a focus of drug discovery efforts for cancer therapeutics. We recently showed that interruption of the VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling pathway ameliorates neuropathic pain and hypothesize that interference of this pathway by SARS-CoV-2 spike protein interferes with pain signaling. Here, we report hits from a small molecule and natural product screen of nearly 0.5 million compounds targeting the VEGF-A binding site on NRP-1. We identified nine chemical series with lead- or drug-like physico-chemical properties. Using an ELISA, we demonstrate that six compounds disrupt VEGF-A-NRP-1 binding more effectively than EG00229, a known NRP-1 inhibitor. Secondary validation in cells revealed that almost all tested compounds inhibited VEGF-A triggered VEGFR2 phosphorylation. Two compounds displayed robust inhibition of a recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus protein that utilizes the SARS-CoV-2 Spike for entry and fusion. These compounds represent a first step in a renewed effort to develop small molecule inhibitors of the VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling for the treatment of neuropathic pain and cancer with the added potential of inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 virus entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Perez-Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, The University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, Arizona 85724, USA
| | - Marcel Patek
- Bright Rock Path Consulting, LLC, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Carly R. Cabel
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona
- Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, University of Arizona
| | - Curtis A. Thorne
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona
- Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, University of Arizona
- Bio5 Institute, University of Arizona
| | - Samuel K. Campos
- Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, University of Arizona
- Bio5 Institute, University of Arizona
- Department of Immunobiology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, The University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, Arizona 85724, USA
- Regulonix LLC, 1555 E. Entrada Segunda, Tucson, AZ 85718, USA
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Moutal A, Martin LF, Boinon L, Gomez K, Ran D, Zhou Y, Stratton HJ, Cai S, Luo S, Gonzalez KB, Perez-Miller S, Patwardhan A, Ibrahim MM, Khanna R. SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein co-opts VEGF-A/Neuropilin-1 receptor signaling to induce analgesia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2020:2020.07.17.209288. [PMID: 32869019 PMCID: PMC7457601 DOI: 10.1101/2020.07.17.209288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues unabated. Binding of SARS-CoV-2's Spike protein to host angiotensin converting enzyme 2 triggers viral entry, but other proteins may participate, including neuropilin-1 receptor (NRP-1). As both Spike protein and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) - a pro-nociceptive and angiogenic factor, bind NRP-1, we tested if Spike could block VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling. VEGF-A-triggered sensory neuronal firing was blocked by Spike protein and NRP-1 inhibitor EG00229. Pro-nociceptive behaviors of VEGF-A were similarly blocked via suppression of spontaneous spinal synaptic activity and reduction of electrogenic currents in sensory neurons. Remarkably, preventing VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling was antiallodynic in a neuropathic pain model. A 'silencing' of pain via subversion of VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling may underlie increased disease transmission in asymptomatic individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Laurent F. Martin
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Lisa Boinon
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Kimberly Gomez
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Dongzhi Ran
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Harrison J. Stratton
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Song Cai
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Shizhen Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Kerry Beth Gonzalez
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Samantha Perez-Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Amol Patwardhan
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Mohab M. Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States of America
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
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Zhao L, Chen H, Lu L, Wang L, Zhang X, Guo X. New insights into the role of co-receptor neuropilins in tumour angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis and targeted therapy strategies. J Drug Target 2020; 29:155-167. [PMID: 32838575 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2020.1815210] [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] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Local tumour sites lead to pathological angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis due to malignant conditions such as hypoxia. Although VEGF and VEGFR are considered to be the main anti-tumour treatment targets, the problems of limited efficacy and observable side effects of some drugs relevant to this target still remain to be solved. Therefore, it is necessary to identify new therapeutic targets for angiogenesis or lymphangiogenesis. The neuropilin family is a class of single transmembrane glycoprotein receptors, including neuropilin1 (NRP1) and neuropilin2 (NRP2), which could act as co-receptors of VEGFA-165 and VEGFC and play a key role in promoting tumour proliferation, invasion and metastasis. In this review, we introduced the schematic diagram to visually reveal the function of NRP1 and NRP2 in enhancing the binding affinity of VEGFR2 to VEGFA-165 and VEGFR3 to VEGFC, respectively. We also discussed the signalling pathways that depend on the co-receptors NRP1 and NRP2 and some existing targeted therapeutic strategies, such as monoclonal antibodies, targeted peptides, microRNAs and small molecule inhibitors. It will contribute a vital foundation for the future research and development of new drugs targeting NRPs. HIGHLIGHTS NRP1 acts as a co-receptor with VEGFR2 and the pro-angiogenic factor VEGFA-165 to up-regulate tumour angiogenesis by promoting endothelial cells proliferation, survival, migration, invasion and by preventing of apoptosis. NRP2 acts as a co-receptor with VEGFR3 and the pro-lymphogenic factor VEGFC to facilitate tumour metastasis by promoting lymphangiogenesis. Although NRP1 and NRP2 do not have enzymatic signalling activity, the affinity of VEGFR2 for VEGFA-165 and VEGFR3 for VEGFC can increase in a co-receptor manner, as detailed in the schematic. The exclusive roles of NRP1 and NRP2 in signalling pathways are specifically described to emphasise the molecular regulatory mechanisms involved in co-receptors. Various studies have shown that the co-receptors NRP1 and NRP2 can be directly or indirectly targeted by different methods to prevent tumour angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. Therapeutic strategies targeting NRPs look promising soon as evidenced by preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Hongyuan Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Shandong University Affiliated Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Lu Lu
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xinke Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiuli Guo
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Conole D, Chou Y, Patsiarika A, Nwabo V, Dimitriou E, Soudy C, Mota F, Djordjevic S, Selwood DL. Discovery of a novel fluorescent chemical probe suitable for evaluation of neuropilin-1 binding of small molecules. Drug Dev Res 2020; 81:491-500. [PMID: 31958155 PMCID: PMC7317715 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP1) is emerging as an important molecule in immune signaling where it has been shown to modulate the actions of TGF-β1 in macrophages and regulatory T cells. The development of cost-effective and reliable assays for NRP1 binding is therefore important. We synthesized three new NRP1 small molecule fluorophores and examined their performance as fluorescent polarization probes. One molecule DS108 exhibited favorable binding and fluorescent characteristics and allowed us to establish a simple assay suitable for medium to high throughput screening of small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Conole
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical ResearchUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Yi‐Tai Chou
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical ResearchUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | | | - Valery Nwabo
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical ResearchUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Eleni Dimitriou
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical ResearchUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Christelle Soudy
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical ResearchUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Filipa Mota
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical ResearchUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Snezana Djordjevic
- Institute of Structural and Molecular BiologyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - David L. Selwood
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical ResearchUniversity College LondonLondonUK
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Dumond A, Demange L, Pagès G. [Neuropilins: relevant therapeutic targets to improve the treatment of cancers]. Med Sci (Paris) 2020; 36:487-496. [PMID: 32452371 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2020080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Exacerbated angiogenesis is one of the hallmarks of cancer defined by Hanahan and Weinberg. However, targeting the signaling pathway of the "Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)" or its receptors has shown its therapeutic limits. Despite short term benefits for patients, tumors always relapse and generally become metastatic and incurable. Neuropilins 1 and 2 (NRP1, 2) whose activity was originally described in the nervous system, stimulate many parameters involved in tumor aggressiveness including cell proliferation, angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, and immune tolerance. Thus, an overexpression of NRP1 or 2 in many tumors, is correlated with a short survival of the patients. The purpose of this review is to describe the mechanisms of action involved in stimulating NRP1, 2 and to take stock of therapeutic strategies in preclinical studies or in early phase trials in patients with different cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurore Dumond
- Centre scientifique de Monaco, Département de biologie médicale, 8 quai Antoine Ier, MC-98000 Monaco, Principauté de Monaco
| | - Luc Demange
- Université de Paris, CiTCoM, UMR 8038 CNRS, Faculté de Pharmacie, 4 avenue de l'Observatoire, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Gilles Pagès
- Centre scientifique de Monaco, Département de biologie médicale, 8 quai Antoine Ier, MC-98000 Monaco, Principauté de Monaco - Université Côte d'Azur, Institut de recherche sur le cancer et le vieillissement de Nice, CNRS UMR 7284 ; Inserm U1081, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 33 avenue de Valombrose, 06189 Nice, France
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Said AM, Parker MW, Vander Kooi CW. Design, synthesis, and evaluation of a novel benzamidine-based inhibitor of VEGF-C binding to Neuropilin-2. Bioorg Chem 2020; 100:103856. [PMID: 32344185 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2020.103856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The Neuropilin (Nrp) family of cell surface receptors have key physiological and pathological functions. Nrp2 is of particular interest due to its involvement in tumor metastasis. Currently, peptide and small molecule inhibitors that target Nrp utilize arginine-based molecules which have limitations due to high inherent flexibility and issues related to stability. Further, there are no known small molecule inhibitors specific for Nrp2. Recent molecular insights identify a key ligand binding region in the b1 domain of Nrp2 responsible for binding the C-terminus of its cognate ligand VEGF-C. Based on this, we report the discovery of a novel benzamidine-based inhibitor that functions through competitive inhibition of VEGF-C binding to Nrp2. Further, we have explored inhibitor functionality and selectivity by defining its structure-activity relationship (SAR) providing valuable insights on this benzamidine-based family of Nrp2 inhibitors. This study provides the basis for further development of a potent and specific small molecule inhibitor that competitively targets pathological Nrp2 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Said
- Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14260, United States; Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Ein-Helwan, Helwan, Cairo 11795, Egypt.
| | - Matthew W Parker
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Center for Structural Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States
| | - Craig W Vander Kooi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Center for Structural Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, United States.
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48
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Huang R, Jing X, Huang X, Pan Y, Fang Y, Liang G, Liao Z, Wang H, Chen Z, Zhang Y. Bifunctional Naphthoquinone Aromatic Amide-Oxime Derivatives Exert Combined Immunotherapeutic and Antitumor Effects through Simultaneous Targeting of Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3. J Med Chem 2020; 63:1544-1563. [PMID: 31999451 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b01386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) are important targets in the tumor microenvironment for cancer therapy. In the present study, a set of naphthoquinone aromatic amide-oxime derivatives were designed, which stimulated the immune response via IDO1 inhibition and simultaneously displayed powerful antitumor activity against three selected cancer cell lines through suppressing STAT3 signaling. The representative compound 8u bound effectively to IDO1, with greater inhibitory activity relative to the commercial IDO1 inhibitor 4-amino-N-(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)-N'-hydroxy-1,2,5-oxadiazole-3-carboximidamide (IDO5L) in addition to the efficient suppression of nuclear translocation of STAT3. Consistently, in vivo assays demonstrated a higher antiproliferative activity of compound 8u in both wild-type B16-F10 isograft tumors and an athymic HepG2 xenograft model relative to 1-methyl-l-tryptophan (1-MT) and doxorubicin (DOX). This bifunctional compound with dual immunotherapeutic and anticancer efficacy may represent a new generation of highly efficacious drug candidates for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rizhen Huang
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources (Ministry of Education of China) , School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences of Guangxi Normal University , Guilin 541004 , China.,School of Pharmacy , Guilin Medical University , Guilin 541004 , China.,Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Biomedical Research and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , Southeast University , Nanjing 211189 , China
| | - Xiaoteng Jing
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources (Ministry of Education of China) , School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences of Guangxi Normal University , Guilin 541004 , China
| | - Xiaochao Huang
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Biomedical Research and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , Southeast University , Nanjing 211189 , China
| | - Yingming Pan
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources (Ministry of Education of China) , School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences of Guangxi Normal University , Guilin 541004 , China
| | - Yilin Fang
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources (Ministry of Education of China) , School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences of Guangxi Normal University , Guilin 541004 , China
| | - Guibin Liang
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources (Ministry of Education of China) , School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences of Guangxi Normal University , Guilin 541004 , China
| | - Zhixin Liao
- Jiangsu Province Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Biomedical Research and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering , Southeast University , Nanjing 211189 , China
| | - Hengshan Wang
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources (Ministry of Education of China) , School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences of Guangxi Normal University , Guilin 541004 , China
| | - Zhenfeng Chen
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources (Ministry of Education of China) , School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences of Guangxi Normal University , Guilin 541004 , China
| | - Ye Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources (Ministry of Education of China) , School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences of Guangxi Normal University , Guilin 541004 , China.,School of Pharmacy , Guilin Medical University , Guilin 541004 , China
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Neuropilin: Handyman and Power Broker in the Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1223:31-67. [PMID: 32030684 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-35582-1_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 and neuropilin-2 form a small family of transmembrane receptors, which, due to the lack of a cytosolic protein kinase domain, act primarily as co-receptors for various ligands. Performing at the molecular level both the executive and organizing functions of a handyman as well as of a power broker, they are instrumental in controlling the signaling of various receptor tyrosine kinases, integrins, and other molecules involved in the regulation of physiological and pathological angiogenic processes. In this setting, the various neuropilin ligands and interaction partners on various cells of the tumor microenvironment, such as cancer cells, endothelial cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and immune cells, are surveyed. The suitability of various neuropilin-targeting substances and the intervention in neuropilin-mediated interactions is considered as a possible building block of tumor therapy.
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50
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Henke E, Nandigama R, Ergün S. Extracellular Matrix in the Tumor Microenvironment and Its Impact on Cancer Therapy. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 6:160. [PMID: 32118030 PMCID: PMC7025524 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2019.00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 549] [Impact Index Per Article: 137.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Solid tumors are complex organ-like structures that consist not only of tumor cells but also of vasculature, extracellular matrix (ECM), stromal, and immune cells. Often, this tumor microenvironment (TME) comprises the larger part of the overall tumor mass. Like the other components of the TME, the ECM in solid tumors differs significantly from that in normal organs. Intratumoral signaling, transport mechanisms, metabolisms, oxygenation, and immunogenicity are strongly affected if not controlled by the ECM. Exerting this regulatory control, the ECM does not only influence malignancy and growth of the tumor but also its response toward therapy. Understanding the particularities of the ECM in solid tumor is necessary to develop approaches to interfere with its negative effect. In this review, we will also highlight the current understanding of the physical, cellular, and molecular mechanisms by which the pathological tumor ECM affects the efficiency of radio-, chemo-, and immunotherapy. Finally, we will discuss the various strategies to target and modify the tumor ECM and how they could be utilized to improve response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Henke
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Rajender Nandigama
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Süleyman Ergün
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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