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Carrow KP, Hamilton HL, Hopps MP, Li Y, Qiao B, Payne NC, Thompson MP, Zhang X, Magassa A, Fattah M, Agarwal S, Vincent MP, Buyanova M, Bertin PA, Mazitschek R, Olvera de la Cruz M, Johnson DA, Johnson JA, Gianneschi NC. Inhibiting the Keap1/Nrf2 Protein-Protein Interaction with Protein-Like Polymers. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2311467. [PMID: 38241649 PMCID: PMC11257647 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202311467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Successful and selective inhibition of the cytosolic protein-protein interaction (PPI) between nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and Kelch-like ECH-associating protein 1 (Keap1) can enhance the antioxidant response, with the potential for a therapeutic effect in a range of settings including in neurodegenerative disease (ND). Small molecule inhibitors have been developed, yet many have off-target effects, or are otherwise limited by poor cellular permeability. Peptide-based strategies have also been attempted to enhance specificity, yet face challenges due to susceptibility to degradation and lack of cellular penetration. Herein, these barriers are overcome utilizing a polymer-based proteomimetics. The protein-like polymer (PLP) consists of a synthetic, lipophilic polymer backbone displaying water soluble Keap1-binding peptides on each monomer unit forming a brush polymer architecture. The PLPs are capable of engaging Keap1 and displacing the cellular protective transcription factor Nrf2, which then translocates to the nucleus, activating the antioxidant response element (ARE). PLPs exhibit increased Keap1 binding affinity by several orders of magnitude compared to free peptides, maintain serum stability, are cell-penetrant, and selectively activate the ARE pathway in cells, including in primary cortical neuronal cultures. Keap1/Nrf2-inhibitory PLPs have the potential to impact the treatment of disease states associated with dysregulation of oxidative stress, such as NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendal P Carrow
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Medical Scientist Training Program, Feinberg School of Medicine, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, IL, USA
| | - Haylee L Hamilton
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin, Madison, 57305, WI, USA
| | - Madeline P Hopps
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, IL, USA
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, IL, USA
| | - Baofu Qiao
- Department of Natural Sciences, Baruch College, City University of New York, New York, 10010, NY, USA
| | - N Connor Payne
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, 02138, MA, USA
| | - Matthew P Thompson
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, IL, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, IL, USA
| | - Assa Magassa
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, IL, USA
| | - Mara Fattah
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, IL, USA
| | - Shivangi Agarwal
- Grove Biopharma, Inc, 1375 W. Fulton St., Ste. 650, Chicago, 60558, IL, USA
| | - Michael P Vincent
- Grove Biopharma, Inc, 1375 W. Fulton St., Ste. 650, Chicago, 60558, IL, USA
| | - Marina Buyanova
- Grove Biopharma, Inc, 1375 W. Fulton St., Ste. 650, Chicago, 60558, IL, USA
| | - Paul A Bertin
- Grove Biopharma, Inc, 1375 W. Fulton St., Ste. 650, Chicago, 60558, IL, USA
| | - Ralph Mazitschek
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, 02142, MA, USA
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, 02115, MA, USA
| | - Monica Olvera de la Cruz
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Robert R. McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science, Center for Computation and Theory of Soft Materials, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, IL, USA
| | - Delinda A Johnson
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin, Madison, 57305, WI, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Johnson
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin, Madison, 57305, WI, USA
| | - Nathan C Gianneschi
- Departments of Chemistry, Materials Science & Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Pharmacology, Simpson Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Lurie Cancer Center, International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, IL, USA
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2
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Zhang C, Liu F, Zhang Y, Song C. Macrocycles and macrocyclization in anticancer drug discovery: Important pieces of the puzzle. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 268:116234. [PMID: 38401189 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116234] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Increasing disease-related proteins have been identified as novel therapeutic targets. Macrocycles are emerging as potential solutions, bridging the gap between conventional small molecules and biomacromolecules in drug discovery. Inspired by successful macrocyclic drugs of natural origins, macrocycles are attracting more attention for enhanced binding affinity and target selectivity. Due to the conformation constraint and structure preorganization, macrocycles can reach bioactive conformations more easily than parent acyclic compounds. Also, rational macrocyclization combined with sequent structural modification will help improve oral bioavailability and combat drug resistance. This review introduces various strategies to enhance membrane permeability in macrocyclization and subsequent modification, such as N-methylation, intramolecular hydrogen bonding modulation, isomerization, and reversible bicyclization. Several case studies highlight macrocyclic inhibitors targeting kinases, HDAC, and protein-protein interactions. Finally, some macrocyclic agents targeting tumor microenvironments are illustrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhang
- Laboratory for Food and Medicine Homologous Natural Resources Development and Utilization, Belgorod College of Food Sciences, Dezhou University, Dezhou, 253023, China
| | - Fenfen Liu
- Laboratory for Food and Medicine Homologous Natural Resources Development and Utilization, Belgorod College of Food Sciences, Dezhou University, Dezhou, 253023, China
| | - Youming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, China.
| | - Chun Song
- Laboratory for Food and Medicine Homologous Natural Resources Development and Utilization, Belgorod College of Food Sciences, Dezhou University, Dezhou, 253023, China; State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237, China.
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3
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Hushpulian DM, Kaidery NA, Dutta D, Sharma SM, Gazaryan I, Thomas B. Emerging small molecule inhibitors of Bach1 as therapeutic agents: Rationale, recent advances, and future perspectives. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2300176. [PMID: 37919861 PMCID: PMC11260292 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor Nrf2 is the master regulator of cellular stress response, facilitating the expression of cytoprotective genes, including those responsible for drug detoxification, immunomodulation, and iron metabolism. FDA-approved Nrf2 activators, Tecfidera and Skyclarys for patients with multiple sclerosis and Friedreich's ataxia, respectively, are non-specific alkylating agents exerting side effects. Nrf2 is under feedback regulation through its target gene, transcriptional repressor Bach1. Specifically, in Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases with Bach1 dysregulation, excessive Bach1 accumulation interferes with Nrf2 activation. Bach1 is a heme sensor protein, which, upon heme binding, is targeted for proteasomal degradation, relieving the repression of Nrf2 target genes. Ideally, a combination of Nrf2 stabilization and Bach1 inhibition is necessary to achieve the full therapeutic benefits of Nrf2 activation. Here, we discuss recent advances and future perspectives in developing small molecule inhibitors of Bach1, highlighting the significance of the Bach1/Nrf2 signaling pathway as a promising neurotherapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry M. Hushpulian
- Faculty of Biology and Biotechnologies, Higher School of Economics, Moscow, Russia
- A.N.Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center “Fundamentals of Biotechnology” of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninski prospect 33, Moscow, Russia
| | - Navneet Ammal Kaidery
- Darby Children’s Research Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Debashis Dutta
- Darby Children’s Research Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Sudarshana M. Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Irina Gazaryan
- Department of Chemical Enzymology, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Department of Chemistry and Physical Sciences, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Pace University, 861 Bedford Road, Pleasantville, NY, USA
| | - Bobby Thomas
- Darby Children’s Research Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Drug Discovery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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4
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Iegre J, Krajcovicova S, Gunnarsson A, Wissler L, Käck H, Luchniak A, Tångefjord S, Narjes F, Spring DR. A cell-active cyclic peptide targeting the Nrf2/Keap1 protein-protein interaction. Chem Sci 2023; 14:10800-10805. [PMID: 37829032 PMCID: PMC10566475 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc04083f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The disruption of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) between Nrf2 and Keap1 is an attractive strategy to counteract the oxidative stress that characterises a variety of severe diseases. Peptides represent a complementary approach to small molecules for the inhibition of this therapeutically important PPI. However, due to their polar nature and the negative net charge required for binding to Keap1, the peptides reported to date exhibit either mid-micromolar activity or are inactive in cells. Herein, we present a two-component peptide stapling strategy to rapidly access a variety of constrained and functionalised peptides that target the Nrf2/Keap1 PPI. The most promising peptide, P8-H containing a fatty acid tag, binds to Keap1 with nanomolar affinity and is effective at inducing transcription of ARE genes in a human lung epithelial cell line at sub-micromolar concentration. Furthermore, crystallography of the peptide in complex with Keap1 yielded a high resolution X-ray structure, adding to the toolbox of structures available to develop cell-permeable peptidomimetic inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Iegre
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry Lensfield Road CB2 1EW Cambridge UK
| | - Sona Krajcovicova
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry Lensfield Road CB2 1EW Cambridge UK
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Palacky University Olomouc Tr. 17. Listopadu 12 77900 Olomouc Czech Republic
| | - Anders Gunnarsson
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca Pepparedsleden 1 43183 Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Lisa Wissler
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca Pepparedsleden 1 43183 Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Helena Käck
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca Pepparedsleden 1 43183 Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Anna Luchniak
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca Pepparedsleden 1 43183 Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Stefan Tångefjord
- BioScience, Research & Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca Pepparedsleden 1 43183 Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Frank Narjes
- Medicinal Chemistry, Research & Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca Pepparedsleden 1 43183 Gothenburg Sweden
| | - David R Spring
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry Lensfield Road CB2 1EW Cambridge UK
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5
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Crisman E, Duarte P, Dauden E, Cuadrado A, Rodríguez-Franco MI, López MG, León R. KEAP1-NRF2 protein-protein interaction inhibitors: Design, pharmacological properties and therapeutic potential. Med Res Rev 2023; 43:237-287. [PMID: 36086898 PMCID: PMC10087726 DOI: 10.1002/med.21925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is considered the master regulator of the phase II antioxidant response. It controls a plethora of cytoprotective genes related to oxidative stress, inflammation, and protein homeostasis, among other processes. Activation of these pathways has been described in numerous pathologies including cancer, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, digestive, metabolic, autoimmune, and neurodegenerative diseases. Considering the increasing interest of discovering novel NRF2 activators due to its clinical application, initial efforts were devoted to the development of electrophilic drugs able to induce NRF2 nuclear accumulation by targeting its natural repressor protein Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1) through covalent modifications on cysteine residues. However, off-target effects of these drugs prompted the development of an innovative strategy, the search of KEAP1-NRF2 protein-protein interaction (PPI) inhibitors. These innovative activators are proposed to target NRF2 in a more selective way, leading to potentially improved drugs with the application for a variety of diseases that are currently under investigation. In this review, we summarize known KEAP1-NRF2 PPI inhibitors to date and the bases of their design highlighting the most important features of their respective interactions. We also discuss the preclinical pharmacological properties described for the most promising compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Crisman
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IQM-CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Princesa, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Teófilo Hernando y Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Duarte
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IQM-CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Teófilo Hernando y Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Esteban Dauden
- Instituto Teófilo Hernando y Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Cuadrado
- Departmento de Bioquímica, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Paz (IdiPaz), Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas 'Alberto Sols' UAM-CSIC, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Manuela G López
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Princesa, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Teófilo Hernando y Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael León
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IQM-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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6
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Pei D. Designing Cell-Permeable Peptide Therapeutics That Enter the Cell by Endocytosis. ACS SYMPOSIUM SERIES. AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY 2022; 1417:179-197. [PMID: 37621949 PMCID: PMC10448808 DOI: 10.1021/bk-2022-1417.ch007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular protein-protein interactions (PPIs) represent a large class of exciting as well as challenging drug targets for traditional drug modalities (i.e., small molecules and biologics). Peptides (especially cyclic peptides) have proven highly effective as PPI inhibitors in vitro but are generally impermeable to the cell membrane. The recent discovery of a family of highly active cyclic cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) has enabled the delivery of peptides into the cytosol of mammalian cells at therapeutically relevant levels. This chapter describes the various strategies that have been developed to conjugate or integrate different types of peptidyl cargoes (e.g., linear, cyclic, and stapled peptides) with cyclic CPPs to generate cell-permeable, metabolically stable, and biologically active macrocyclic peptides against intracellular targets including PPIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehua Pei
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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7
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Buyanova M, Sahni A, Yang R, Sarkar A, Salim H, Pei D. Discovery of a Cyclic Cell-Penetrating Peptide with Improved Endosomal Escape and Cytosolic Delivery Efficiency. Mol Pharm 2022; 19:1378-1388. [PMID: 35405068 PMCID: PMC9175492 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.1c00924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic cell-penetrating peptide 12 (CPP12) is highly efficient for the cytosolic delivery of a variety of cargo molecules into mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo. However, its cytosolic entry efficiency is substantially reduced at lower concentrations or in the presence of serum proteins. In this study, CPP12 analogs were prepared by replacing its hydrophobic residues with amino acids of varying hydrophobicity and evaluated for cellular entry. Substitution of l-3-benzothienylalanine (Bta) for l-2-naphthylalanine (Nal) resulted in CPP12-2, which exhibits up to 3.8-fold higher cytosolic entry efficiency than CPP12, especially at low CPP concentrations; thanks to improved endosomal escape efficiency. CPP12-2 is well suited for the cytosolic delivery of highly potent cargos to achieve biological activity at low concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Buyanova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 100 West 18th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Ashweta Sahni
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 100 West 18th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Rui Yang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 100 West 18th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Amar Sarkar
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 100 West 18th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Heba Salim
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 100 West 18th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Dehua Pei
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 100 West 18th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
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8
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Buyanova M, Pei D. Targeting intracellular protein-protein interactions with macrocyclic peptides. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2022; 43:234-248. [PMID: 34911657 PMCID: PMC8840965 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2021.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are challenging targets for traditional drug modalities. Macrocyclic peptides (MPs) prove highly effective PPI inhibitors in vitro and can be rapidly discovered against PPI targets by rational design or screening combinatorial libraries but are generally impermeable to the cell membrane. Recent advances in MP science and technology are allowing for the development of 'drug-like' MPs that potently and specifically modulate intracellular PPI targets in cell culture and animal models. In this review, we highlight recent progress in generating cell-permeable MPs that enter the mammalian cell by passive diffusion, endocytosis followed by endosomal escape, or as-yet unknown mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Buyanova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Dehua Pei
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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9
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Ershov PV, Mezentsev YV, Ivanov AS. Interfacial Peptides as Affinity Modulating Agents of Protein-Protein Interactions. Biomolecules 2022; 12:106. [PMID: 35053254 PMCID: PMC8773757 DOI: 10.3390/biom12010106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of disease-related protein-protein interactions (PPIs) creates objective conditions for their pharmacological modulation. The contact area (interfaces) of the vast majority of PPIs has some features, such as geometrical and biochemical complementarities, "hot spots", as well as an extremely low mutation rate that give us key knowledge to influence these PPIs. Exogenous regulation of PPIs is aimed at both inhibiting the assembly and/or destabilization of protein complexes. Often, the design of such modulators is associated with some specific problems in targeted delivery, cell penetration and proteolytic stability, as well as selective binding to cellular targets. Recent progress in interfacial peptide design has been achieved in solving all these difficulties and has provided a good efficiency in preclinical models (in vitro and in vivo). The most promising peptide-containing therapeutic formulations are under investigation in clinical trials. In this review, we update the current state-of-the-art in the field of interfacial peptides as potent modulators of a number of disease-related PPIs. Over the past years, the scientific interest has been focused on following clinically significant heterodimeric PPIs MDM2/p53, PD-1/PD-L1, HIF/HIF, NRF2/KEAP1, RbAp48/MTA1, HSP90/CDC37, BIRC5/CRM1, BIRC5/XIAP, YAP/TAZ-TEAD, TWEAK/FN14, Bcl-2/Bax, YY1/AKT, CD40/CD40L and MINT2/APP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel V. Ershov
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, 119121 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.M.); (A.S.I.)
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10
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Salim H, Pei D. Assessing the Cellular Uptake, Endosomal Escape, and Cytosolic Entry Efficiencies of Cyclic Peptides. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2371:301-316. [PMID: 34596855 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1689-5_16] [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] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular biologics such as cyclic peptides are an emerging class of macromolecular drugs that are either intrinsically cell permeable or can be effectively delivered into the cell interior to modulate the activity of previously intractable drug targets. They generally enter the mammalian cell by endocytosis mechanisms and are initially localized inside the endosomes. They subsequently escape from the endosomes (and/or lysosomes) into the cytosol with varying efficiencies. In this chapter, we provide the detailed protocol for a flow cytometry-based assay method to quantitate the overall cellular uptake, endosomal escape, and cytosolic entry efficiencies of biomolecules (e.g., linear and cyclic peptides, proteins, and nucleic acids), by using cell-penetrating peptides as an example. The scope of applicability, strengths, and weaknesses of this assay are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba Salim
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Dehua Pei
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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11
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Tang R, Song Y, Shi M, Jiang Z, Zhang L, Xiao Y, Tian Y, Zhou S. Rational Design of a Dual-Targeting Natural Toxin-Like Bicyclic Peptide for Selective Bioenergetic Blockage in Cancer Cells. Bioconjug Chem 2021; 32:2173-2183. [PMID: 34606715 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.1c00366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Stapled α-helical peptides emerge as one of the attractive peptidomimetics which can efficiently penetrate the cell membrane to access intracellular targets. However, the incorporation of a highly lipophilic cross-link may lead to nonspecific membrane toxicity in certain cases. Here, we report a new class of thioether-tethered bicyclic α-helical peptide to mimic the highly constrained loop-helix structure of natural toxins with the dual-targeting ability for both cell-surface receptors and intracellular targets. The thioether cross-links are introduced to replace the redox-sensitive disulfide bonds in natural toxins via a photoinduced thiol-yne reaction followed by macrolactamization. As a proof of concept, αVβ3 integrin targeting ligand was grafted into one of the macrocycles in the bicyclic scaffold, while a mitochondria-targeting proapoptotic motif was introduced into the other macrocycle stabilized by an i, i + 7 alkyl thioether cross-link to recapitulate its α-helical conformation. The obtained dual-targeting bicyclic α-helical BIRK peptides showed highly stable α-helical conformation in the presence of denaturants or under high temperature. Notably, BIRK peptides could induce selective cell death in αVβ3 integrin-positive B16F10 cells by interfering with the bioenergetic functions of mitochondria. This work provides a new avenue to design and stabilize α-helical peptides in a highly constrained bicyclic loop-helix scaffold with dual functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Tang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P. R. China
| | - Yue Song
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P. R. China
| | - Mengzhen Shi
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P. R. China
| | - Zherui Jiang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P. R. China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P. R. China
| | - Yao Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Tian
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P. R. China
| | - Shaobing Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P. R. China
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12
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Different Approaches to Cyclize a Cell-Penetrating Peptide and to Tether Bioactive Payloads. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2371:375-389. [PMID: 34596859 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1689-5_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are versatile tools to deliver various molecules into different cell types. The majority of CPPs are usually represented by linear structures, but numerous recent studies demonstrated cyclization to be an effective strategy leading to favorable biological activities. Here we describe two different methods for the side chain and backbone cyclization of CPPs . Furthermore, we highlight straightforward procedures for the covalent coupling of fluorophores or cytotoxic payloads.
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Yin H, Huang YH, Best SA, Sutherland KD, Craik DJ, Wang CK. An Integrated Molecular Grafting Approach for the Design of Keap1-Targeted Peptide Inhibitors. ACS Chem Biol 2021; 16:1276-1287. [PMID: 34152716 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.1c00388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Inhibiting the Nrf2:Keap1 interaction to trigger cytoprotective gene expression is a promising treatment strategy for oxidative stress-related diseases. A short linear motif from Nrf2 has the potential to directly inhibit this protein-protein interaction, but poor stability and limited cellular uptake impede its therapeutic development. To address these limitations, we utilized an integrated molecular grafting strategy to re-engineer the Nrf2 motif. We combined the motif with an engineered non-native disulfide bond and a cell-penetrating peptide onto a single multifunctionalizable and ultrastable molecular scaffold, namely, the cyclotide MCoTI-II, resulting in the grafted peptide MCNr-2c. The engineered disulfide bond enhanced the conformational rigidity of the motif, resulting in a nanomolar affinity of MCNr-2c for Keap1. The cell-penetrating peptide led to an improved cellular uptake and increased ability to enhance the intracellular expression of two well-described Nrf2-target genes NQO1 and TALDO1. Furthermore, the stability of the scaffold was inherited by the grafted peptide, which became resistant to proteolysis in serum. Overall, we have provided proof-of-concept for a strategy that enables the encapsulation of multiple desired and complementary activities into a single molecular entity to design a Keap1-targeted inhibitor. We propose that this integrated approach could have broad utility for the design of peptide drug leads that require multiple functions and/or biopharmaceutical properties to elicit a therapeutic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huawu Yin
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Sarah A. Best
- ACRF Cancer Biology and Stem Cells Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Kate D. Sutherland
- ACRF Cancer Biology and Stem Cells Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Conan K. Wang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
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14
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Philippe GJB, Mittermeier A, Lawrence N, Huang YH, Condon ND, Loewer A, Craik DJ, Henriques ST. Angler Peptides: Macrocyclic Conjugates Inhibit p53:MDM2/X Interactions and Activate Apoptosis in Cancer Cells. ACS Chem Biol 2021; 16:414-428. [PMID: 33533253 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.0c00988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Peptides are being developed as targeted anticancer drugs to modulate cytosolic protein-protein interactions involved in cancer progression. However, their use as therapeutics is often limited by their low cell membrane permeation and/or inability to reach cytosolic targets. Conjugation to cell penetrating peptides has been successfully used to improve the cytosolic delivery of high affinity binder peptides, but cellular uptake does not always result in modulation of the targeted pathway. To overcome this limitation, we developed "angler peptides" by conjugating KD3, a noncell permeable but potent and specific peptide inhibitor of p53:MDM2 and p53:MDMX interactions, with a set of cyclic cell-penetrating peptides. We examined their binding affinity for MDM2 and MDMX, the cell entry mechanism, and role in reactivation of the p53 pathway. We identified two angler peptides, cTAT-KD3 and cR10-KD3, able to activate the p53 pathway in cancer cells. cTAT-KD3 entered cells via endocytic pathways, escaped endosomes, and activated the p53 pathway in breast (MCF7), lung (A549), and colon (HCT116) cancer cell lines at concentrations in the range of 1-12 μM. cR10-KD3 reached the cytosol via direct membrane translocation and activated the p53 pathway at 1 μM in all the tested cell lines. Our work demonstrates that nonpermeable anticancer peptides can be delivered into the cytosol and inhibit intracellular cancer pathways when they are conjugated with stable cell penetrating peptides. The mechanistic studies suggest that direct translocation leads to less toxicity, higher cytosol delivery at lower concentrations, and lower dependencies on the membrane of the tested cell line than occurs for an endocytic pathway with endosomal escape. The angler strategy can rescue high affinity peptide binders identified from high throughput screening and convert them into targeted anticancer therapeutics, but investigation of their cellular uptake and cell death mechanisms is essential to confirming modulation of the targeted cancer pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grégoire J.-B. Philippe
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | | | - Nicole Lawrence
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Nicholas D. Condon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | | | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Sónia T. Henriques
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Queensland University of Technology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation and Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
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15
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Madden SK, Itzhaki LS. Exploring the binding of rationally engineered tandem-repeat proteins to E3 ubiquitin ligase Keap1. Protein Eng Des Sel 2021; 34:gzab027. [PMID: 34882773 PMCID: PMC8660007 DOI: 10.1093/protein/gzab027] [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: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The process of displaying functional peptides by 'grafting' them onto loops of a stable protein scaffold can be used to impart binding affinity for a target, but it can be difficult to predict the affinity of the grafted peptide and the effect of grafting on scaffold stability. In this study, we show that a series of peptides that bind to the E3 ubiquitin ligase Keap1 can be grafted into the inter-repeat loop of a consensus-designed tetratricopeptide repeat (CTPR) protein resulting in proteins with high stability. We found that these CTPR-grafted peptides had similar affinities to their free peptide counterparts and achieved a low nanomolar range. This result is likely due to a good structural match between the inter-repeat loop of the CTPR and the Keap1-binding peptide. The grafting process led to the discovery of a new Keap1-binding peptide, Ac-LDPETGELL-NH2, with low nanomolar affinity for Keap1, highlighting the potential of the repeat-protein class for application in peptide display.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Madden
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1PD, UK
| | - Laura S Itzhaki
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1PD, UK
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16
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González-Muñiz R, Bonache MÁ, Pérez de Vega MJ. Modulating Protein-Protein Interactions by Cyclic and Macrocyclic Peptides. Prominent Strategies and Examples. Molecules 2021; 26:445. [PMID: 33467010 PMCID: PMC7830901 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26020445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclic and macrocyclic peptides constitute advanced molecules for modulating protein-protein interactions (PPIs). Although still peptide derivatives, they are metabolically more stable than linear counterparts, and should have a lower degree of flexibility, with more defined secondary structure conformations that can be adapted to imitate protein interfaces. In this review, we analyze recent progress on the main methods to access cyclic/macrocyclic peptide derivatives, with emphasis in a few selected examples designed to interfere within PPIs. These types of peptides can be from natural origin, or prepared by biochemical or synthetic methodologies, and their design could be aided by computational approaches. Some advances to facilitate the permeability of these quite big molecules by conjugation with cell penetrating peptides, and the incorporation of β-amino acid and peptoid structures to improve metabolic stability, are also commented. It is predicted that this field of research could have an important future mission, running in parallel to the discovery of new, relevant PPIs involved in pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario González-Muñiz
- Instituto de Química Médica (IQM-CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain; (M.Á.B.); (M.J.P.d.V.)
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17
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Dougherty PG, Karpurapu M, Koley A, Lukowski JK, Qian Z, Nirujogi TS, Rusu L, Chung S, Hummon AB, Li HW, Christman JW, Pei D. A Peptidyl Inhibitor that Blocks Calcineurin-NFAT Interaction and Prevents Acute Lung Injury. J Med Chem 2020; 63:12853-12872. [PMID: 33073986 PMCID: PMC8011862 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is an inflammatory lung disease with a high morbidity and mortality rate, for which no pharmacologic treatment is currently available. Our previous studies discovered that a pivotal step in the disease process is the activation of the nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) c3 in lung macrophages, suggesting that inhibitors against the upstream protein phosphatase calcineurin should be effective for prevention/treatment of ARDS. Herein, we report the development of a highly potent, cell-permeable, and metabolically stable peptidyl inhibitor, CNI103, which selectively blocks the interaction between calcineurin and NFATc3, through computational and medicinal chemistry. CNI103 specifically inhibited calcineurin signaling in vitro and in vivo and exhibited a favorable pharmacokinetic profile, broad tissue distribution following different routes of administration, and minimal toxicity. Our data indicate that CNI103 is a promising novel treatment for ARDS and other inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick G. Dougherty
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12 Ave., Columbus, OH 43210, United States
- Entrada Therapeutics, 50 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA 02210, United States
| | - Manjula Karpurapu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Amritendu Koley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12 Ave., Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Jessica K. Lukowski
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States
| | - Ziqing Qian
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12 Ave., Columbus, OH 43210, United States
- Entrada Therapeutics, 50 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA 02210, United States
| | - Teja Srinivas Nirujogi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
- East Liverpool City Hospital, 425 W 5th Street, East Liverpool, Ohio 43920, United States
| | - Luiza Rusu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Sangwoon Chung
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Amanda B. Hummon
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12 Ave., Columbus, OH 43210, United States
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus OH, 43210, United States
| | - Hao W. Li
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Columbia University, 650 W. 168 Street, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - John W. Christman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Dehua Pei
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12 Ave., Columbus, OH 43210, United States
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18
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Wen J, Liao H, Stachowski K, Hempfling JP, Qian Z, Yuan C, Foster MP, Pei D. Rational design of cell-permeable cyclic peptides containing a d-Pro-l-Pro motif. Bioorg Med Chem 2020; 28:115711. [PMID: 33069067 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2020.115711] [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: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic peptides are capable of binding to challenging targets (e.g., proteins involved in protein-protein interactions) with high affinity and specificity, but generally cannot gain access to intracellular targets because of poor membrane permeability. In this work, we discovered a conformationally constrained cyclic cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) containing a d-Pro-l-Pro motif, cyclo(AFΦrpPRRFQ) (where Φ is l-naphthylalanine, r is d-arginine, and p is d-proline). The structural constraints provided by cyclization and the d-Pro-l-Pro motif permitted the rational design of cell-permeable cyclic peptides of large ring sizes (up to 16 amino acids). This strategy was applied to design a potent, cell-permeable, and biologically active cyclic peptidyl inhibitor, cyclo(YpVNFΦrpPRR) (where Yp is l-phosphotyrosine), against the Grb2 SH2 domain. Multidimensional NMR spectroscopic and circular dichroism analyses revealed that the cyclic CPP as well as the Grb2 SH2 inhibitor assume a predominantly random coil structure but have significant β-hairpin character surrounding the d-Pro-l-Pro motif. These results demonstrate cyclo(AFΦrpPRRFQ) as an effective CPP for endocyclic (insertion of cargo into the CPP ring) or exocyclic delivery of biological cargos (attachment of cargo to the Gln side chain).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Wen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12(th) Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Hui Liao
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12(th) Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Kye Stachowski
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12(th) Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jordan P Hempfling
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12(th) Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ziqing Qian
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12(th) Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Chunhua Yuan
- Campus Chemical Instrument Center, The Ohio State University, 460 West 12(th) Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Mark P Foster
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12(th) Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Dehua Pei
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, 484 West 12(th) Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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19
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Discovery of 2-oxy-2-phenylacetic acid substituted naphthalene sulfonamide derivatives as potent KEAP1-NRF2 protein-protein interaction inhibitors for inflammatory conditions. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 207:112734. [PMID: 32866756 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a pleiotropic transcription factor which regulates the constitutive and inducible transcription of a wide array of genes and confers protection against a variety of pathologies. Directly disrupting Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1)-NRF2 protein-protein interaction (PPI) has been explored as a promising strategy to activate NRF2. We reported here the first identification of a series of 2-oxy-2-phenylacetic acid substituted naphthalene sulfonamide derivatives as potent KEAP1-NRF2 inhibitors. Our efforts led to the potent small molecule KEAP1-NRF2 inhibitor, 20c, which exhibited a Kd of 24 nM to KEAP1 and an IC50 of 75 nM in disrupting KEAP1-NRF2 interaction. Subsequent biological studies provided consistent evidence across mouse macrophage cell-based and in vivo models that 20c induced NRF2 target gene expression and enhanced downstream antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Our study not only demonstrated that small molecule KEAP1-NRF2 PPI inhibitors can be potential preventive and therapeutic agents for diseases and conditions involving oxidative stress and inflammation but also enriched the chemical diversity of the KEAP1-NRF2 inhibitors.
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