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Aguiar TKB, Mesquita FP, Neto NAS, Gomes FÍR, Freitas CDT, Carneiro RF, Nagano CS, Alencar LMR, Santos-Oliveira R, Oliveira JTA, Souza PFN. No Chance to Survive: Mo-CBP 3-PepII Synthetic Peptide Acts on Cryptococcus neoformans by Multiple Mechanisms of Action. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12020378. [PMID: 36830289 PMCID: PMC9952340 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Multidrug-resistant Cryptococcus neoformans is an encapsulated yeast causing a high mortality rate in immunocompromised patients. Recently, the synthetic peptide Mo-CBP3-PepII emerged as a potent anticryptococcal molecule with an MIC50 at low concentration. Here, the mechanisms of action of Mo-CBP3-PepII were deeply analyzed to provide new information about how it led C. neoformans cells to death. Light and fluorescence microscopies, analysis of enzymatic activities, and proteomic analysis were employed to understand the effect of Mo-CBP3-PepII on C. neoformans cells. Light and fluorescence microscopies revealed Mo-CBP3-PepII induced the accumulation of anion superoxide and hydrogen peroxide in C. neoformans cells, in addition to a reduction in the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and catalase (CAT) in the cells treated with Mo-CBP3-PepII. In the presence of ascorbic acid (AsA), no reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected, and Mo-CBP3-PepII lost the inhibitory activity against C. neoformans. However, Mo-CBP3-PepII inhibited the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) ergosterol biosynthesis and induced the decoupling of cytochrome c (Cyt c) from the mitochondrial membrane. Proteomic analysis revealed a reduction in the abundance of proteins related to energetic metabolism, DNA and RNA metabolism, pathogenicity, protein metabolism, cytoskeleton, and cell wall organization and division. Our findings indicated that Mo-CBP3-PepII might have multiple mechanisms of action against C. neoformans cells, mitigating the development of resistance and thus being a potent molecule to be employed in the production of new drugs against C. neoformans infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tawanny K. B. Aguiar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Felipe P. Mesquita
- Drug Research and Development Center, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
| | - Nilton A. S. Neto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Francisco Í. R. Gomes
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Cleverson D. T. Freitas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Rômulo F. Carneiro
- Department of Fisheries Engineering, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Celso S. Nagano
- Department of Fisheries Engineering, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Luciana M. R. Alencar
- Laboratory of Biophysics and Nanosystems, Physics Department, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís 65080-805, MA, Brazil
| | - Ralph Santos-Oliveira
- Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission, Nuclear Engineering Institute, Rio de Janeiro 21941-906, RJ, Brazil
- Laboratory of Nanoradiopharmacy, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro 23070-200, RJ, Brazil
| | - Jose T. A. Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Pedro F. N. Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
- Drug Research and Development Center, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
- Correspondence: or
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da Silva Neto JX, Dias LP, Lopes de Souza LA, Silva da Costa HP, Vasconcelos IM, Pereira ML, de Oliveira JTA, Cardozo CJP, Gonçalves Moura LFW, de Sousa JS, Carneiro RF, Lopes TDP, Bezerra de Sousa DDO. Insights into the structure and mechanism of action of the anti-candidal lectin Mo-CBP2 and evaluation of its synergistic effect and antibiofilm activity. Process Biochem 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.procbio.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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3
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Silva AL, Bezerra LP, Freitas CDT, Silva AFB, Mesquita FP, Neto NAS, Oliveira JPB, Aguiar TKB, Nagano CS, Carneiro RF, Oliveira JTA, Albuquerque CC, Souza PFN. Luffa operculata seed proteins: Identification by LC-ESI-MS/MS and biotechnological potential against Candida albicans and C. krusei. Anal Biochem 2022; 655:114851. [PMID: 35977597 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2022.114851] [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: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
L: operculata is a plant commonly found in the North and Northeast of Brazil. Although the regional population knows its medicinal potential, there are few scientific studies about its antimicrobial potential. Thus, this study aimed to characterize the proteins from L. operculata seeds extracted using different solutions and evaluate their antimicrobial potentials. The protein extracts obtained with NaCl and sodium acetate buffer presented the best inhibitory activities against Candida albicans and C. krusei. The study of the mechanism of action revealed proteins from L. operculata seeds induced pore formation on the membrane and ROS overaccumulation. Scanning Electron Microscopy images also showed severe morphological changes in Candida albicans and C. krusei. Proteins from L.operculata seeds did not show antibacterial activity. The enzymatic assays revealed the presence of proteolytic enzymes, serine and cysteine protease inhibitors, and chitinases in both protein extracts. Proteomic analysis by LC-ESI-MS/MS identified 57 proteins related to many biological processes, such as defense to (a)biotic stress, energetic metabolism, protein folding, and nucleotide metabolism. In conclusion, the L. operculata seed proteins have biotechnological potential against the human pathogenic yeasts Candida albicans and C. krusei.
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Affiliation(s)
- André L Silva
- Plant Biochemistry and Physiology Laboratory, State University of Rio Grande of North, Mossoró, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Leandro P Bezerra
- Plant Biochemistry and Physiology Laboratory, State University of Rio Grande of North, Mossoró, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Plant Defense Proteins, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Cleverson D T Freitas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Plant Defense Proteins, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Ayrles F B Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Plant Defense Proteins, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Felipe P Mesquita
- Drug Research and Development Center, Department of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Brazil
| | - Nilton A S Neto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Plant Defense Proteins, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - João P B Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Plant Defense Proteins, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Tawanny K B Aguiar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Plant Defense Proteins, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Celso S Nagano
- Drug Research and Development Center, Department of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Brazil
| | - Rômulo F Carneiro
- Drug Research and Development Center, Department of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Brazil
| | - Jose T A Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Plant Defense Proteins, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Cynthia C Albuquerque
- Plant Biochemistry and Physiology Laboratory, State University of Rio Grande of North, Mossoró, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Pedro F N Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Plant Defense Proteins, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil; Department of Fishing Engineering, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil.
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4
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Lima PG, Freitas CDT, Oliveira JTA, Neto NAS, Amaral JL, Silva AFB, Sousa JS, Franco OL, Souza PFN. Synthetic antimicrobial peptides control Penicillium digitatum infection in orange fruits. Food Res Int 2021; 147:110582. [PMID: 34399551 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2021.110582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Fungal contamination is among the main reasons for food spoilage, affecting food safety and the economy. Among fungi, Penicillium digitatum is a major agent of this problem. Here, the in vitro activity of eight synthetic antimicrobial peptides was assessed against P. digitatum, and their action mechanisms were evaluated. All peptides were able to inhibit fungal growth. Furthermore, atomic force and fluorescence microscopies revealed that all peptides targeted the fungal membrane leading to pore formation, loss of internal content, and death. The induction of high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was also a mechanism employed by some peptides. Interestingly, only three peptides (PepGAT, PepKAA, and Mo-CBP3-PepI) effectively control P. digitatum colonization in orange fruits, at a concentration (50 µg mL-1) 20-fold lower than the commercial food preservative (sodium propionate). Altogether, PepGAT, PepKAA, and Mo-CBP3-PepI showed high biotechnological potential as new food preservatives to control food infection by P. digitatum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia G Lima
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará CEP 60.440-554, Brazil
| | - Cleverson D T Freitas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará CEP 60.440-554, Brazil
| | - Jose T A Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará CEP 60.440-554, Brazil
| | - Nilton A S Neto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará CEP 60.440-554, Brazil
| | - Jackson L Amaral
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará CEP 60.440-554, Brazil; Department of Physics, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Ayrles F B Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará CEP 60.440-554, Brazil; Department of Physics, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Jeanlex S Sousa
- Department of Physics, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Octávio L Franco
- S-Inova Biotech, Programa de Pós Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande 79117900, Brazil; Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília 70790160, Brazil
| | - Pedro F N Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará CEP 60.440-554, Brazil.
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New Insights into Anthelmintic Mechanisms of Action of a Synthetic Peptide: An Ultrastructural and Nanomechanical Approach. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13142370. [PMID: 34301127 PMCID: PMC8309597 DOI: 10.3390/polym13142370] [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: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistant nematodes are not affected by the most common drugs commercially available. In the search for new anthelmintics, peptides have been investigated. Here, a linear synthetic peptide named RcAlb-PepIII bioinspired from the antimicrobial protein Rc-2S-Alb was designed, synthesized, and tested against barber pole worm Haemonchus contortus. The physicochemical properties of the peptide, the 3D structure model, the egg hatch inhibition, and larval development inhibition of H. contortus were carried out. Additionally, the ultrastructure of the nematode after treatment with the peptide was evaluated by atomic force microscopy. The RcAlb-PepIII inhibited the larval development of H. contortus with an EC50 of 90 µM and did not affect egg hatch. Atomic force microscopy reveals the high affinity of RcAlb-PepIII with the cuticle of H. contortus in the L2 stage. It also shows the deposition of RcAlb-PepIII onto the surface of the cuticle, forming a structure similar to a film that reduces the roughness and mean square roughness (Rq) of it. In conclusion, the bioinspired RcAlb-PepIII has the potential to be used as a new anthelmintic compound to control gastrointestinal nematode parasites.
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Lima PG, Oliveira JTA, Amaral JL, Freitas CDT, Souza PFN. Synthetic antimicrobial peptides: Characteristics, design, and potential as alternative molecules to overcome microbial resistance. Life Sci 2021; 278:119647. [PMID: 34043990 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Recently, the dramatic emergence of antimicrobial resistance has received attention from World Health Organization. Synthetic antimicrobial peptides (SAMPs) are considered new weapons to fight against infections caused by multi-drug resistant pathogens. Here, the authors provide an overview of the current research on SAMPs. The focus is SAMPs, how to design them, which features must be considered during design, and comparison with natural peptides. This review also includes a discussion about the natural AMPs, mechanisms of action and applications as new drugs or even as adjuvants molecules to enhance commercial drugs activity. The advances in chemical synthesis have reduced the cost to produce synthetic peptides open ways to achieve new antimicrobial agents. Therefore, synthetic peptides are new promising molecules to safeguard human and animal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia G Lima
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, CEP 60.440-554 Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Jose T A Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, CEP 60.440-554 Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Jackson L Amaral
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, CEP 60.440-554 Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Cleverson D T Freitas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, CEP 60.440-554 Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Pedro F N Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, CEP 60.440-554 Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil.
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Souza PFN. The forgotten 2S albumin proteins: Importance, structure, and biotechnological application in agriculture and human health. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 164:4638-4649. [PMID: 32937155 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.09.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
2S albumin proteins are a group of important seed storage proteins (SSPs) essential to seeds at early and late developmental stages, by providing amino acids and other nutrients during germination and for seed defense. 2S albumins possess a well-conserved cysteine supporting the stability of temperature, pH, and proteolysis. The 3D structure rich in alpha-helices and positively charged is particularly suited for antibacterial and antifungal activity, which is presented by many 2S albumins. However, the hypervariable region present in 2S albumins induces allergenic reactions. Because of that, 2S albumins have never been recognized for their biotechnological potential. However, the development of servers used for the rational design of antimicrobial molecules has now brought a new application to 2S albumins, acting as a model to design antimicrobial molecules without the toxic or allergenic effects of 2S albumins. Therefore, this review is focused on discussing the importance of 2S albumins to seed development and defense and the biochemical, structural and functional properties of these proteins thought to play a role in their antimicrobial activity. Additionally, the application of 2S albumins to design synthetic antimicrobial peptides is discussed, potentially bringing new functions to these forgotten proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro F N Souza
- Laboratory of Plant Defense Proteins, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará CEP 60.440-554, Brazil.
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8
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Synthetic peptides against Trichophyton mentagrophytes and T. rubrum: Mechanisms of action and efficiency compared to griseofulvin and itraconazole. Life Sci 2020; 265:118803. [PMID: 33238167 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS According to the WHO, 20-25% of people worldwide are affected by skin infections caused by dermatophytes, such as those of the Trichophyton genus. Additionally, several dermatophytes have developed resistance to drugs such as griseofulvin and itraconazole. This study tested 2S albumins-derived antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as alternative antidermatophytic molecules. MAIN METHODS Membrane pore formation assays, tests to detect overproduction of ROS, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fluorescence microscopy (FM) were carried out to provide insight into the mechanisms of antidermatophytic action. KEY FINDINGS All AMPs (at 50 μg mL-1) tested reduced the mycelial growth of T. mentagrophytes and T. rubrum by up to 95%. In contrast, using a concentration 20-fold higher, griseofulvin only inhibited T. mentagrophytes by 35%, while itraconazole was not active against both dermatophytes. Scanning electron and fluorescence microscopies revealed that the six AMPs caused severe damage to hyphal morphology by inducing cell wall rupture, hyphal content leakage, and death. Peptides also induced membrane pore formation and oxidative stress by overproduction of ROS. Based on the stronger activity of peptides than the commercial drugs and the mechanism of action, all six peptides have the potential to be either employed as models to develop new antidermatophytic drugs or as adjuvants to existing ones. SIGNIFICANCE The synthetic peptides are more efficient than conventional drug to treat infection caused by dermatophytes being potential molecules to develop new drugs.
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Souza PFN, Lima PG, Freitas CDT, Sousa DOB, Neto NAS, Dias LP, Vasconcelos IM, Freitas LBN, Silva RGG, Sousa JS, Silva AFB, Oliveira JTA. Antidermatophytic activity of synthetic peptides: Action mechanisms and clinical application as adjuvants to enhance the activity and decrease the toxicity of Griseofulvin. Mycoses 2020; 63:979-992. [PMID: 32628303 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dermatophytes belonging to the Trichophyton genus are important human pathogens, but they have developed resistance to griseofulvin, the most common antifungal drug used to treat dermatophytosis. OBJECTIVE This study was aimed to evaluate the antidermatophytic activity of synthetic peptides, as well as mechanisms of action and synergistic effect with griseofulvin. METHODS Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and fluorescence microscopy (FM) were employed to understand the activity and the mechanism of action of peptides. RESULTS Here we report that synthetic peptides at 50 μg/mL, a concentration 20-fold lower than griseofulvin, reduced the microconidia viability of T. mentagrophytes and T. rubrum by 100%, whereas griseofulvin decreased their viability by only 50% and 0%, respectively. The action mechanism of peptides involved cell wall damage, membrane pore formation and loss of cytoplasmic content. Peptides also induced overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and enhanced the activity of griseofulvin 10-fold against both fungi, suggesting synergistic effects, and eliminated the toxicity of this drug to human erythrocytes. Docking analysis revealed ionic and hydrophobic interactions between peptides and griseofulvin, which may explain the decline of griseofulvin toxicity when mixed with peptides. CONCLUSION Therefore, our results strongly suggest six peptides with high potential to be employed alone as new drugs or as adjuvants to enhance the activity and decrease the toxicity of griseofulvin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro F N Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Patrícia G Lima
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Cleverson D T Freitas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Daniele O B Sousa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Nilton A S Neto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Lucas P Dias
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Ilka M Vasconcelos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Larissa B N Freitas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Rafael G G Silva
- Department of Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Jeanlex S Sousa
- Department of Physics, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Ayrles F B Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Jose T A Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
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Lima PG, Souza PF, Freitas CD, Oliveira JT, Dias LP, Neto JX, Vasconcelos IM, Lopes JL, Sousa DO. Anticandidal activity of synthetic peptides: Mechanism of action revealed by scanning electron and fluorescence microscopies and synergism effect with nystatin. J Pept Sci 2020; 26:e3249. [DOI: 10.1002/psc.3249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia G. Lima
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - Pedro F.N. Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - Cleverson D.T. Freitas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - Jose T.A. Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - Lucas P. Dias
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - João X.S. Neto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - Ilka M. Vasconcelos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - José L.S. Lopes
- Department of Applied PhysicsUniversity of Sao Paulo Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Daniele O.B. Sousa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
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11
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Lopes TDP, Souza PFN, da Costa HPS, Pereira ML, da Silva Neto JX, de Paula PC, Brilhante RSN, Oliveira JTA, Vasconcelos IM, Sousa DOB. Mo-CBP 4, a purified chitin-binding protein from Moringa oleifera seeds, is a potent antidermatophytic protein: In vitro mechanisms of action, in vivo effect against infection, and clinical application as a hydrogel for skin infection. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 149:432-442. [PMID: 32004601 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.01.257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Dermatophytes belonging to Trichophyton ssp. are important anthropophilic and zoophilic pathogens, which developed resistance to griseofulvin, the common antifungal drug used to treat dermatophytosis. In this context, Moringa oleifera seed proteins have been described as antifungal agents with potential applications. Thus, this work aimed to evaluate the antidermatophytic in vitro, focusing on mechanisms, and in vivo potential of Mo-CBP4, purified from M. oleifera seeds. Mo-CBP4was purified after protein extraction with 50 mM Tris-HCl buffer, pH 8.0, and chromatography on chitin and CM Sepharose™ columns and antidermatophytic potential of Mo-CBP4 evaluated in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, Mo-CBP4 reduced in 50% the germination of microconidia of Trichophyton mentagrophytes at 45 μM; but did not show inhibition of mycelial growth. Mo-CBP4 (45 μM) presents the inhibitory activity even when incubated with N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (NAG). Analysis of the mechanisms of Mo-CBP4 revealed an increase in membrane permeability, ROS overproduction and damage to cell wall leading to microconidia death. Furthermore, using in vivo models, Mo-CBP4 (5, 10 and 20 mg g-1) reduced the severity and time of dermatophytosis. Altogether, these findings indicate that Mo-CBP4 has great potential for the development of novel antifungal drugs for the clinical treatment of dermatophytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pedro Filho Noronha Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | | | - Mirella Leite Pereira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - João Xavier da Silva Neto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Paulo Carvalho de Paula
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | | | - Jose Tadeu Abreu Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Ilka Maria Vasconcelos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
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Dias LP, Souza PFN, Oliveira JTA, Vasconcelos IM, Araújo NMS, Tilburg MFV, Guedes MIF, Carneiro RF, Lopes JLS, Sousa DOB. RcAlb-PepII, a synthetic small peptide bioinspired in the 2S albumin from the seed cake of Ricinus communis, is a potent antimicrobial agent against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida parapsilosis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2019; 1862:183092. [PMID: 31678367 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2019.183092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are important constituents of the innate immunity system of all living organisms. They participate in the first line of defense against invading pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi. In view of the increasing difficulties to treat infectious diseases due to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, AMPs have great potential to control infectious diseases in humans and animals. In this study, two small peptides, RcAlb-PepI and RcAlb-PepII, were designed based on the primary structure of Rc-2S-Alb, a 2S albumin from the seed cake of Ricinus communis, and their antimicrobial activity assessed. RcAlb-PepII strongly inhibited the growth of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida parapsilosis, and induced morphological alterations in their cell surface. C. parapsilosis exposed to RcAlb-PepII presented higher cell membrane permeabilization and elevated content of reactive oxygen species. RcAlb-PepII also degraded and reduced the biofilm formation in C. parapsilosis and in K. pneumonia cells. Experimentally, RcAlb-PepII was not hemolytic and had low toxicity to mammalian cells. These are advantageous characteristics, which suggest that RcAlb-PepII is safe and apparently effective for its intended use and has great potential for the future development of an antimicrobial agent with the ability to kill or inhibit K. pneumoniae and C. parapsilosis cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas P Dias
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceara (UFC), Fortaleza, Brazil.
| | - Pedro F N Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceara (UFC), Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Jose T A Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceara (UFC), Fortaleza, Brazil.
| | - Ilka M Vasconcelos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceara (UFC), Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Nadine M S Araújo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceara (UFC), Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Mauricio F V Tilburg
- Department of Biotechnology, State University of Ceara (UECE), Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Maria I F Guedes
- Department of Biotechnology, State University of Ceara (UECE), Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Rômulo F Carneiro
- Department of Fisheries Engineering, Federal University of Ceara (UFC), Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - José L S Lopes
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Sao Paulo (IF-USP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniele O B Sousa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceara (UFC), Fortaleza, Brazil
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13
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Awosika T, Aluko RE. Enzymatic Pea Protein Hydrolysates Are Active Trypsin and Chymotrypsin Inhibitors. Foods 2019; 8:E200. [PMID: 31185637 PMCID: PMC6616451 DOI: 10.3390/foods8060200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work, we report the potency of enzymatic hydrolysates of pea proteins against trypsin and chymotrypsin. Pea protein concentrate was digested with each of alcalase, chymotrypsin, pepsin, and trypsin, followed by membrane separation of the protein hydrolysates into peptide fractions (<1, 1-3, 3-5, and 5-10 kDa). Peptide size profiling with size-exclusion gel chromatography indicated the narrowest size range (0.85-4.98 kDa) for alcalase. Trypsin activity was strongly (p < 0.05) inhibited by the ultrafiltration fractions (mean IC50 = 2.2 mg/mL) obtained from the trypsin hydrolysate when compared to the unfractionated hydrolysate (IC50 = 6.8 mg/mL). Similarly, ultrafiltration also enhanced trypsin inhibition by the alcalase-digested peptides with an IC50 of 21.4 mg/mL for the unfractionated hydrolysate in comparison to 3.1-4.7 mg/mL for the fractions. However, ultrafiltration did not enhance trypsin inhibitory activity of chymotrypsin-digested peptides, while the peptide separation reduced efficacy of pepsin-digested peptides. In contrast, chymotrypsin inhibition by all the enzymatic digests was significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced by ultrafiltration, especially peptide sizes >3 kDa. Kinetics of enzyme inhibition indicate peptides were bound to the enzyme active site in a competitive mode that led to reduced catalysis. We conclude that the pea peptides could function as useful tools to promote human health and as a preservative during food processing and storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temitola Awosika
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada.
| | - Rotimi E Aluko
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada.
- Richardson Centre for Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada.
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14
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Ozias‐Akins P, Breiteneder H. The functional biology of peanut allergens and possible links to their allergenicity. Allergy 2019; 74:888-898. [PMID: 30636003 PMCID: PMC6563476 DOI: 10.1111/all.13719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Peanut is one of the most common food triggers of fatal anaphylaxis worldwide although peanut allergy affects only 1%-2% of the general population. Peanuts are the source of highly potent allergenic proteins. It is emerging that the allergenicity of certain proteins is linked to their biological function. Peanut is an unusual crop in that it flowers aboveground but produces its seed-containing pods underground. This so-called geocarpic fruiting habit exposes pods and seeds during their development to soilborne pathogens and pests. Pest damage can also open routes of entry for opportunistic fungi such as Aspergillus. Although seed proteins have primary functions in nutrient reservoirs, lipid storage bodies, or the cytoskeleton, they have also evolved to act as part of the plant's defense system to enhance fitness and survival of the species. When interacting with pathogens or pests, these proteins modify and damage cells' membranes, interact with immune receptors, and modulate signaling pathways. Moreover, following exposure, the immune system of predisposed individuals reacts to these proteins with the production of specific IgE. This review explores the evolutionary biology of peanut and its seed proteins and highlights possible links between the proteins' biological function and their allergenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peggy Ozias‐Akins
- Genetic & Genomics and Department of Horticulture Institute of Plant Breeding University of Georgia Tifton Georgia
| | - Heimo Breiteneder
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
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15
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Bryksa BC, Yada RY. Protein Structure Insights into the Bilayer Interactions of the Saposin-Like Domain of Solanum tuberosum Aspartic Protease. Sci Rep 2017; 7:16911. [PMID: 29208977 PMCID: PMC5717070 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-16734-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Many plant aspartic proteases contain a saposin-like domain whose principal functions are intracellular sorting and host defence. Its structure is characterised by helical segments cross-linked by three highly conserved cystines. The present study on the saposin-like domain of Solanum tuberosum aspartic protease revealed that acidification from inactive to active conditions causes dimerisation and a strand-to-helix secondary structure transition independent of bilayer interaction. Bilayer fusion was shown to occur under reducing conditions yielding a faster shift to larger vesicle sizes relative to native conditions, implying that a lower level structural motif might be bilayer-active. Characterisation of peptide sequences based on the domain’s secondary structural regions showed helix-3 to be active (~4% of the full domain’s activity), and mutation of its sole positively charged residue resulted in loss of activity and disordering of structure. Also, the peptides’ respective circular dichroism spectra suggested that native folding within the full domain is dependent on surrounding structure. Overall, the present study reveals that the aspartic protease saposin-like domain active structure is an open saposin fold dimer whose formation is pH-dependent, and that a bilayer-active motif shared among non-saposin membrane-active proteins including certain plant defence proteins is nested within an overall structure essential for native functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian C Bryksa
- Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph, N1G 2W1, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rickey Y Yada
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z4, British Columbia, Canada.
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