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Liao K, Wang F, Xia C, Xu Z, Zhong S, Bi W, Ruan J. The cGAS-STING pathway in COPD: targeting its role and therapeutic potential. Respir Res 2024; 25:302. [PMID: 39113033 PMCID: PMC11308159 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-024-02915-x] [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: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) is a gradually worsening and fatal heterogeneous lung disease characterized by airflow limitation and increasingly decline in lung function. Currently, it is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The consistent feature of COPD is airway inflammation. Several inflammatory factors are known to be involved in COPD pathogenesis; however, anti-inflammatory therapy is not the first-line treatment for COPD. Although bronchodilators, corticosteroids and roflumilast could improve airflow and control symptoms, they could not reverse the disease. The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) signaling pathway plays an important novel role in the immune system and has been confirmed to be a key mediator of inflammation during infection, cellular stress, and tissue damage. Recent studies have emphasized that abnormal activation of cGAS-STING contributes to COPD, providing a direction for new treatments that we urgently need to develop. Here, we focused on the cGAS-STING pathway, providing insight into its molecular mechanism and summarizing the current knowledge on the role of the cGAS-STING pathway in COPD. Moreover, we explored antagonists of cGAS and STING to identify potential therapeutic strategies for COPD that target the cGAS-STING pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Liao
- First Clinical Medical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, People's Republic of China
| | - Fengshuo Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenhao Xia
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, People's Republic of China
| | - Ze Xu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, People's Republic of China
| | - Sen Zhong
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenqi Bi
- First Clinical Medical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingjing Ruan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, People's Republic of China.
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2
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Chang L. Harnessing cGAS-STING axis for therapeutic benefits in systemic lupus erythematosus. Int J Rheum Dis 2024; 27:e15256. [PMID: 38982864 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.15256] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), a prominent intracellular DNA sensor in mammalian cells, controls the innate immune response and the stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-mediated synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as type-I interferon (IFN-I). For decades, IFN-I has been hypothesized to be essential in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic multisystem autoimmunity characterized by immune complex (IC) deposition in small vessels. Recent findings revealed that the activation of the cGAS-STING pathway by self-DNA would propagate the autoimmune responses via upregulating IFN-I production in SLE. In this review, we aimed to provide a comprehensive outlook of the role of the cGAS-STING pathway in SLE pathobiology, as well as, a better understanding of current therapeutic opportunities targeting this axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Chang
- Department of Rheumatology, Henan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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3
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Yu X, Cai L, Yao J, Li C, Wang X. Agonists and Inhibitors of the cGAS-STING Pathway. Molecules 2024; 29:3121. [PMID: 38999073 PMCID: PMC11243509 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29133121] [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: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway is pivotal in immunotherapy. Several agonists and inhibitors of the cGAS-STING pathway have been developed and evaluated for the treatment of various diseases. The agonists aim to activate STING, with cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) being the most common, while the inhibitors aim to block the enzymatic activity or DNA binding ability of cGAS. Meanwhile, non-CDN compounds and cGAS agonists are also gaining attention. The omnipresence of the cGAS-STING pathway in vivo indicates that its overactivation could lead to undesired inflammatory responses and autoimmune diseases, which underscores the necessity of developing both agonists and inhibitors of the cGAS-STING pathway. This review describes the molecular traits and roles of the cGAS-STING pathway and summarizes the development of cGAS-STING agonists and inhibitors. The information is supposed to be conducive to the design of novel drugs for targeting the cGAS-STING pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxuan Yu
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, School of Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Linxiang Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jingyue Yao
- Department of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China;
| | - Cenming Li
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, School of Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xiaoyong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
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4
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Ednacot EMQ, Nabhani A, Dinh DM, Morehouse BR. Pharmacological potential of cyclic nucleotide signaling in immunity. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 258:108653. [PMID: 38679204 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Cyclic nucleotides are important signaling molecules that play many critical physiological roles including controlling cell fate and development, regulation of metabolic processes, and responding to changes in the environment. Cyclic nucleotides are also pivotal regulators in immune signaling, orchestrating intricate processes that maintain homeostasis and defend against pathogenic threats. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the pharmacological potential of cyclic nucleotide signaling pathways within the realm of immunity. Beginning with an overview of the fundamental roles of cAMP and cGMP as ubiquitous second messengers, this review delves into the complexities of their involvement in immune responses. Special attention is given to the challenges associated with modulating these signaling pathways for therapeutic purposes, emphasizing the necessity for achieving cell-type specificity to avert unintended consequences. A major focus of the review is on the recent paradigm-shifting discoveries regarding specialized cyclic nucleotide signals in the innate immune system, notably the cGAS-STING pathway. The significance of cyclic dinucleotides, exemplified by 2'3'-cGAMP, in controlling immune responses against pathogens and cancer, is explored. The evolutionarily conserved nature of cyclic dinucleotides as antiviral agents, spanning across diverse organisms, underscores their potential as targets for innovative immunotherapies. Findings from the last several years have revealed a striking diversity of novel bacterial cyclic nucleotide second messengers which are involved in antiviral responses. Knowledge of the existence and precise identity of these molecules coupled with accurate descriptions of their associated immune defense pathways will be essential to the future development of novel antibacterial therapeutic strategies. The insights presented herein may help researchers navigate the evolving landscape of immunopharmacology as it pertains to cyclic nucleotides and point toward new avenues or lines of thinking about development of therapeutics against the pathways they regulate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirene Marie Q Ednacot
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Ali Nabhani
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - David M Dinh
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Benjamin R Morehouse
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Institute for Immunology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Center for Virus Research, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
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5
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Gu X, Chen Y, Cao K, Tu M, Liu W, Ju J. Therapeutic landscape in systemic lupus erythematosus: mtDNA activation of the cGAS-STING pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 133:112114. [PMID: 38652968 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) serves as a pivotal immune stimulus in the immune response. During stress, mitochondria release mtDNA into the cytoplasm, where it is recognized by the cytoplasmic DNA receptor cGAS. This activation initiates the cGAS-STING-IRF3 pathway, culminating in an inflammatory response. The cGAS-STING pathway has emerged as a critical mediator of inflammatory responses in microbial infections, stress, autoimmune diseases, chronic illnesses, and tissue injuries. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by connective tissue involvement across various bodily systems. Its hallmark is the production of numerous autoantibodies, which prompt the immune system to target and damage the body's own tissues, resulting in organ and tissue damage. Increasing evidence implicates the cGAS-STING pathway as a significant contributor to SLE pathogenesis. This article aims to explore the role of the mtDNA-triggered cGAS-STING pathway and its mechanisms in SLE, with the goal of providing novel insights for clinical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotian Gu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Yong Chen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Kunyu Cao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Miao Tu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Wan Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China.
| | - Jiyu Ju
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China.
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6
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An C, Li Z, Chen Y, Huang S, Yang F, Hu Y, Xu T, Zhang C, Ge S. The cGAS-STING pathway in cardiovascular diseases: from basic research to clinical perspectives. Cell Biosci 2024; 14:58. [PMID: 38720328 PMCID: PMC11080250 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-024-01242-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP)-adenosine monophosphate (AMP) synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) signaling pathway, an important component of the innate immune system, is involved in the development of several diseases. Ectopic DNA-induced inflammatory responses are involved in several pathological processes. Repeated damage to tissues and metabolic organelles releases a large number of damage-associated molecular patterns (mitochondrial DNA, nuclear DNA, and exogenous DNA). The DNA fragments released into the cytoplasm are sensed by the sensor cGAS to initiate immune responses through the bridging protein STING. Many recent studies have revealed a regulatory role of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) such as myocardial infarction, heart failure, atherosclerosis, and aortic dissection/aneurysm. Furthermore, increasing evidence suggests that inhibiting the cGAS-STING signaling pathway can significantly inhibit myocardial hypertrophy and inflammatory cell infiltration. Therefore, this review is intended to identify risk factors for activating the cGAS-STING pathway to reduce risks and to simultaneously further elucidate the biological function of this pathway in the cardiovascular field, as well as its potential as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng An
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Shaojun Huang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Ying Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Chengxin Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Shenglin Ge
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
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7
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Li Q, Wu P, Du Q, Hanif U, Hu H, Li K. cGAS-STING, an important signaling pathway in diseases and their therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e511. [PMID: 38525112 PMCID: PMC10960729 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Since cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway was discovered in 2013, great progress has been made to elucidate the origin, function, and regulating mechanism of cGAS-STING signaling pathway in the past decade. Meanwhile, the triggering and transduction mechanisms have been continuously illuminated. cGAS-STING plays a key role in human diseases, particularly DNA-triggered inflammatory diseases, making it a potentially effective therapeutic target for inflammation-related diseases. Here, we aim to summarize the ancient origin of the cGAS-STING defense mechanism, as well as the triggers, transduction, and regulating mechanisms of the cGAS-STING. We will also focus on the important roles of cGAS-STING signal under pathological conditions, such as infections, cancers, autoimmune diseases, neurological diseases, and visceral inflammations, and review the progress in drug development targeting cGAS-STING signaling pathway. The main directions and potential obstacles in the regulating mechanism research and therapeutic drug development of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway for inflammatory diseases and cancers will be discussed. These research advancements expand our understanding of cGAS-STING, provide a theoretical basis for further exploration of the roles of cGAS-STING in diseases, and open up new strategies for targeting cGAS-STING as a promising therapeutic intervention in multiple diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qijie Li
- Sichuan province Medical and Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Center of Nursing & Materials/Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceWest China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of NursingSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ping Wu
- Department of Occupational DiseasesThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College (China National Nuclear Corporation 416 Hospital)ChengduSichuanChina
| | - Qiujing Du
- Sichuan province Medical and Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Center of Nursing & Materials/Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceWest China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of NursingSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ullah Hanif
- Sichuan province Medical and Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Center of Nursing & Materials/Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceWest China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of NursingSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Hongbo Hu
- Center for Immunology and HematologyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ka Li
- Sichuan province Medical and Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Center of Nursing & Materials/Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceWest China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of NursingSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
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8
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Moreno LM, Quiroga J, Abonia R, Crespo MDP, Aranaga C, Martínez-Martínez L, Sortino M, Barreto M, Burbano ME, Insuasty B. Synthesis of Novel Triazine-Based Chalcones and 8,9-dihydro-7 H-pyrimido[4,5- b][1,4]diazepines as Potential Leads in the Search of Anticancer, Antibacterial and Antifungal Agents. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3623. [PMID: 38612435 PMCID: PMC11012124 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073623] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This study presents the synthesis of four series of novel hybrid chalcones (20,21)a-g and (23,24)a-g and six series of 1,3,5-triazine-based pyrimido[4,5-b][1,4]diazepines (28-33)a-g and the evaluation of their anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal, and cytotoxic properties. Chalcones 20b,d, 21a,b,d, 23a,d-g, 24a-g and the pyrimido[4,5-b][1,4]diazepines 29e,g, 30g, 31a,b,e-g, 33a,b,e-g exhibited outstanding anticancer activity against a panel of 60 cancer cell lines with GI50 values between 0.01 and 100 μM and LC50 values in the range of 4.09 μM to >100 μM, several of such derivatives showing higher activity than the standard drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). On the other hand, among the synthesized compounds, the best antibacterial properties against N. gonorrhoeae, S. aureus (ATCC 43300), and M. tuberculosis were exhibited by the pyrimido[4,5-b][1,4]diazepines (MICs: 0.25-62.5 µg/mL). The antifungal activity studies showed that triazinylamino-chalcone 29e and triazinyloxy-chalcone 31g were the most active compounds against T. rubrum and T. mentagrophytes and A. fumigatus, respectively (MICs = 62.5 μg/mL). Hemolytic activity studies and in silico toxicity analysis demonstrated that most of the compounds are safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leydi M. Moreno
- Grupo de Investigación de Compuestos Heterocíclicos, Departamento de Química, Universidad del Valle, Cali 760042, Colombia; (J.Q.); (R.A.)
| | - Jairo Quiroga
- Grupo de Investigación de Compuestos Heterocíclicos, Departamento de Química, Universidad del Valle, Cali 760042, Colombia; (J.Q.); (R.A.)
| | - Rodrigo Abonia
- Grupo de Investigación de Compuestos Heterocíclicos, Departamento de Química, Universidad del Valle, Cali 760042, Colombia; (J.Q.); (R.A.)
| | - María del P. Crespo
- Grupo de Biotecnología e Infecciones Bacterianas, Departamento de Microbiología, Universidad del Valle, Cali 760042, Colombia;
- Grupo de Microbiología y Enfermedades Infecciosas, Departamento de Microbiología, Universidad del Valle, Cali 760042, Colombia; (M.B.); (M.E.B.)
| | - Carlos Aranaga
- Grupo de Investigación en Química y Biotecnología (QUIBIO), Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 760035, Colombia;
- Grupo de Investigación Traslacional en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Escuela de Biomedicina, Universidad de Córdoba, 14014 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Luis Martínez-Martínez
- Unidad de Microbiología Clínica, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Departamento de Química Agrícola, Edafología y Microbiología, Universidad de Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain;
| | - Maximiliano Sortino
- Área de Farmacognosia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, Rosario 2000, Argentina;
| | - Mauricio Barreto
- Grupo de Microbiología y Enfermedades Infecciosas, Departamento de Microbiología, Universidad del Valle, Cali 760042, Colombia; (M.B.); (M.E.B.)
| | - María E. Burbano
- Grupo de Microbiología y Enfermedades Infecciosas, Departamento de Microbiología, Universidad del Valle, Cali 760042, Colombia; (M.B.); (M.E.B.)
| | - Braulio Insuasty
- Grupo de Investigación de Compuestos Heterocíclicos, Departamento de Química, Universidad del Valle, Cali 760042, Colombia; (J.Q.); (R.A.)
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9
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Guo X, Yang L, Wang J, Wu Y, Li Y, Du L, Li L, Fang Z, Zhang X. The cytosolic DNA-sensing cGAS-STING pathway in neurodegenerative diseases. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14671. [PMID: 38459658 PMCID: PMC10924111 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14671] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the widespread prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) and high rates of mortality and disability, it is imminent to find accurate targets for intervention. There is growing evidence that neuroimmunity is pivotal in the pathology of NDs and that interventions targeting neuroimmunity hold great promise. Exogenous or dislocated nucleic acids activate the cytosolic DNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), activating the stimulator of interferon genes (STING). The activated STING triggers innate immune responses and then the cGAS-STING signaling pathway links abnormal nucleic acid sensing to the immune response. Recently, numerous studies have shown that neuroinflammation regulated by cGAS-STING signaling plays an essential role in NDs. AIMS In this review, we summarized the mechanism of cGAS-STING signaling in NDs and focused on inhibitors targeting cGAS-STING. CONCLUSION The cGAS-STING signaling plays an important role in the pathogenesis of NDs. Inhibiting the cGAS-STING signaling may provide new measures in the treatment of NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Guo
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Xijing HospitalThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityChina
- Department of Intensive Care UnitJoint Logistics Force No. 988 HospitalZhengzhouChina
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Xijing HospitalThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityChina
| | - Jiawei Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Xijing HospitalThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityChina
| | - You Wu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Xijing HospitalThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityChina
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Xijing HospitalThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityChina
| | - Lixia Du
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Xijing HospitalThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityChina
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Xijing HospitalThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityChina
| | - Zongping Fang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Xijing HospitalThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityChina
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xijing HospitalFourth Military Medical UniversityShaanxiChina
- Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain‐Like Intelligence, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of MedicineTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xijing Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Xijing HospitalThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityChina
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10
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Hu MM, Shu HB. Mitochondrial DNA-triggered innate immune response: mechanisms and diseases. Cell Mol Immunol 2023; 20:1403-1412. [PMID: 37932533 PMCID: PMC10687031 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-023-01086-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Various cellular stress conditions trigger mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) release from mitochondria into the cytosol. The released mtDNA is sensed by the cGAS-MITA/STING pathway, resulting in the induced expression of type I interferon and other effector genes. These processes contribute to the innate immune response to viral infection and other stress factors. The deregulation of these processes causes autoimmune diseases, inflammatory metabolic disorders and cancer. Therefore, the cGAS-MITA/STING pathway is a potential target for intervention in infectious, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases as well as cancer. In this review, we focus on the mechanisms underlying the mtDNA-triggered activation of the cGAS-MITA/STING pathway, the effects of the pathway under various physiological and pathological conditions, and advances in the development of drugs that target cGAS and MITA/STING.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Ming Hu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Research Unit of Innate Immune and Inflammatory Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China.
- Research Unit of Innate Immune and Inflammatory Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China.
| | - Hong-Bing Shu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Research Unit of Innate Immune and Inflammatory Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China.
- Research Unit of Innate Immune and Inflammatory Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China.
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11
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Ghincea A, Woo S, Sheeline Y, Pivarnik T, Fiorini V, Herzog EL, Ryu C. Mitochondrial DNA Sensing Pathogen Recognition Receptors in Systemic Sclerosis Associated Interstitial Lung Disease: A Review. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN RHEUMATOLOGY 2023; 9:204-220. [PMID: 38230363 PMCID: PMC10791121 DOI: 10.1007/s40674-023-00211-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Purpose of the review Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a condition of dermal and visceral scar formation characterized by immune dysregulation and inflammatory fibrosis. Approximately 90% of SSc patients develop interstitial lung disease (ILD), and it is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Further understanding of immune-mediated fibroproliferative mechanisms has the potential to catalyze novel treatment approaches in this difficult to treat disease. Recent findings Recent advances have demonstrated the critical role of aberrant innate immune activation mediated by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) through interactions with toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) and cytosolic cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS). Summary In this review, we will discuss how the nature of the mtDNA, whether oxidized or mutated, and its mechanism of release, either intracellularly or extracellularly, can amplify fibrogenesis by activating TLR9 and cGAS, and the novel insights gained by interrogating these signaling pathways. Because the scope of this review is intended to generate hypotheses for future research, we conclude our discussion with several important unanswered questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Ghincea
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine
| | - Samuel Woo
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine
| | - Yu Sheeline
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine
| | - Taylor Pivarnik
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine
| | - Vitoria Fiorini
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine
| | - Erica L. Herzog
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine
| | - Changwan Ryu
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine
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12
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Tsukidate T, Hespen CW, Hang HC. Small molecule modulators of immune pattern recognition receptors. RSC Chem Biol 2023; 4:1014-1036. [PMID: 38033733 PMCID: PMC10685800 DOI: 10.1039/d3cb00096f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) represent a re-emerging class of therapeutic targets for vaccine adjuvants, inflammatory diseases and cancer. In this review article, we summarize exciting developments in discovery and characterization of small molecule PRR modulators, focusing on Toll-like receptors (TLRs), NOD-like receptors (NLRs) and the cGAS-STING pathway. We also highlight PRRs that are currently lacking small molecule modulators and opportunities for chemical biology and therapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taku Tsukidate
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Microbial Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University, New York New York 10065 USA
| | - Charles W Hespen
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Microbial Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University, New York New York 10065 USA
| | - Howard C Hang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Microbial Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University, New York New York 10065 USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology and Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla California 92037 USA
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13
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Huang Y, Liu B, Sinha SC, Amin S, Gan L. Mechanism and therapeutic potential of targeting cGAS-STING signaling in neurological disorders. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:79. [PMID: 37941028 PMCID: PMC10634099 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00672-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA sensing is a pivotal component of the innate immune system that is responsible for detecting mislocalized DNA and triggering downstream inflammatory pathways. Among the DNA sensors, cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is a primary player in detecting cytosolic DNA, including foreign DNA from pathogens and self-DNA released during cellular damage, culminating in a type I interferon (IFN-I) response through stimulator of interferon genes (STING) activation. IFN-I cytokines are essential in mediating neuroinflammation, which is widely observed in CNS injury, neurodegeneration, and aging, suggesting an upstream role for the cGAS DNA sensing pathway. In this review, we summarize the latest developments on the cGAS-STING DNA-driven immune response in various neurological diseases and conditions. Our review covers the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms of cGAS activation and highlights cGAS-STING signaling in various cell types of central and peripheral nervous systems, such as resident brain immune cells, neurons, and glial cells. We then discuss the role of cGAS-STING signaling in different neurodegenerative conditions, including tauopathies, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, as well as aging and senescence. Finally, we lay out the current advancements in research and development of cGAS inhibitors and assess the prospects of targeting cGAS and STING as therapeutic strategies for a wide spectrum of neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yige Huang
- Helen and Robert Appel Alzheimer Disease Research Institute, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Bangyan Liu
- Helen and Robert Appel Alzheimer Disease Research Institute, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Subhash C Sinha
- Helen and Robert Appel Alzheimer Disease Research Institute, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sadaf Amin
- Helen and Robert Appel Alzheimer Disease Research Institute, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Li Gan
- Helen and Robert Appel Alzheimer Disease Research Institute, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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14
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Zhou S, Cheng F, Zhang Y, Su T, Zhu G. Engineering and Delivery of cGAS-STING Immunomodulators for the Immunotherapy of Cancer and Autoimmune Diseases. Acc Chem Res 2023; 56:2933-2943. [PMID: 37802125 PMCID: PMC10882213 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.3c00394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator interferon gene (cGAS-STING) pathway is an emerging therapeutic target for the prophylaxis and therapy of a variety of diseases, ranging from cancer, infectious diseases, to autoimmune disorders. As a cytosolic double stranded DNA (dsDNA) sensor, cGAS can bind with relatively long dsDNA, resulting in conformational change and activation of cGAS. Activated cGAS catalyzes the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and guanosine triphosphate (GTP) into cGAMP, a cyclic dinucleotide (CDN). CDNs, including 2'3'-cGAMP, stimulate adapter protein STING on the endoplasmic membrane, triggering interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) phosphorylation and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation. This results in antitumor and antiviral type I interferon (IFN-I) responses. Moreover, cGAS-STING overactivation and the resulting IFN-I responses have been associated with a number of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. This makes cGAS-STING appealing immunomodulatory targets for the prophylaxis and therapy of various related diseases. However, drug development of CDNs and CDN derivatives is challenged by their limited biostability, difficult formulation, poor pharmacokinetics, and inefficient tissue accumulation and cytosolic delivery. Though recent synthetic small molecular CDN- or non-CDN-based STING agonists have been reported with promising preclinical therapeutic efficacy, their therapeutic efficacy and safety remain to be fully evaluated preclinically and clinically. Therefore, it is highly desirable and clinically significant to advance drug development for cGAS-STING activation by innovative approaches, such as drug delivery systems and drug development for pharmacological immunomodulation of cGAS. In this Account, we summarize our recent research in the engineering and delivery of immunostimulatory or immunoregulatory modulators for cGAS and STING for the immunotherapy of cancer and autoimmune diseases. To improve the delivery efficiency of CDNs, we developed ionizable and pH-responsive polymeric nanocarriers to load STING agonists, aiming to improve the cellular uptake and facilitate the endosomal escape to induce efficient STING activation. We also codelivered STING agonists with complementary immunostimulatants in nanoparticle-in-hydrogel composites to synergetically elicit potent innate and adaptive antitumor responses that eradicate local and distant large tumors. Further, taking advantage of the simplicity of manufacturing and the established nucleic acid delivery system, we developed oligonucleotide-based cGAS agonists as immunostimulant immunotherapeutics as well as adjuvants for peptide antigens for cancer immunotherapy. To suppress the overly strong proinflammatory responses associated with cGAS-STING overactivation in some of the autoimmune disorders, we devised nanomedicine-in-hydrogel (NiH) that codelivers a cGAS inhibitor and cell-free DNA (cfDNA)-scavenging cationic nanoparticles (cNPs) for systemic immunosuppression in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) therapy. Lastly, we discussed current drug development by targeting cGAS-STING for cancer, infectious diseases, and autoimmune diseases, as well as the potential opportunities for utilizing cGAS-STING pathway for versatile applications in disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shurong Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy; Biointerfaces Institute. University of Michigan. Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Furong Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 31002, China
| | - Ting Su
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
| | - Guizhi Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy; Biointerfaces Institute. University of Michigan. Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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15
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Mas-Bargues C. Mitochondria pleiotropism in stem cell senescence: Mechanisms and therapeutic approaches. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 208:657-671. [PMID: 37739140 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Aging is a complex biological process characterized by a progressive decline in cellular and tissue function, ultimately leading to organismal aging. Stem cells, with their regenerative potential, play a crucial role in maintaining tissue homeostasis and repair throughout an organism's lifespan. Mitochondria, the powerhouses of the cell, have emerged as key players in the aging process, impacting stem cell function and contributing to age-related tissue dysfunction. Here are discuss the mechanisms through which mitochondria influence stem cell fate decisions, including energy production, metabolic regulation, ROS signalling, and epigenetic modifications. Therefore, this review highlights the role of mitochondria in driving stem cell senescence and the subsequent impact on tissue function, leading to overall organismal aging and age-related diseases. Finally, we explore potential anti-aging therapies targeting mitochondrial health and discuss their implications for promoting healthy aging. This comprehensive review sheds light on the critical interplay between mitochondrial function, stem cell senescence, and organismal aging, offering insights into potential strategies for attenuating age-related decline and promoting healthy longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Mas-Bargues
- Freshage Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable-Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERFES-ISCIII), INCLIVA, 46010, Valencia, Spain.
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16
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Chauhan C, Kaundal RK. The role of cGAS-STING signaling in ischemic stroke: From immune response to therapeutic targeting. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103792. [PMID: 37783431 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Stroke, a debilitating condition with limited treatment options, presents a significant therapeutic challenge. A comprehensive grasp of stroke pathophysiology is imperative for designing newer and more effective therapeutic approaches. Notably, the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway has emerged as a central orchestrator of the poststroke immune response. It regulates pivotal processes, including immune cell activation, cytokine production, neuroinflammation, apoptosis, and tissue regeneration. Modulating this pathway shows immense potential in improving stroke outcomes, necessitating the development of selective inhibitors and activators. This review provides an overview of the cGAS-STING pathway's role in ischemic stroke and explores emerging therapies, including cGAS and STING inhibitors and STING agonist preconditioning. It also addresses challenges like specificity, timing, and off-target effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandan Chauhan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow, UP 226002, India
| | - Ravinder Kumar Kaundal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow, UP 226002, India.
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17
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Zhang J, Zhang L, Chen Y, Fang X, Li B, Mo C. The role of cGAS-STING signaling in pulmonary fibrosis and its therapeutic potential. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1273248. [PMID: 37965345 PMCID: PMC10642193 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1273248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive and ultimately fatal lung disease, exhibiting the excessive production of extracellular matrix and aberrant activation of fibroblast. While Pirfenidone and Nintedanib are FDA-approved drugs that can slow down the progression of pulmonary fibrosis, they are unable to reverse the disease. Therefore, there is an urgent demand to develop more efficient therapeutic approaches for pulmonary fibrosis. The intracellular DNA sensor called cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) plays a crucial role in detecting DNA and generating cGAMP, a second messenger. Subsequently, cGAMP triggers the activation of stimulator of interferon genes (STING), initiating a signaling cascade that leads to the stimulation of type I interferons and other signaling molecules involved in immune responses. Recent studies have highlighted the involvement of aberrant activation of cGAS-STING contributes to fibrotic lung diseases. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the current knowledge regarding the role of cGAS-STING pathway in pulmonary fibrosis. Moreover, we discuss the potential therapeutic implications of targeting the cGAS-STING pathway, including the utilization of inhibitors of cGAS and STING.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Lanlan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yutian Chen
- The Department of Endovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaobin Fang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology/Critical Care Medicine, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chunheng Mo
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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18
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Wang X, Wang Y, Cao A, Luo Q, Chen D, Zhao W, Xu J, Li Q, Bu X, Quan J. Development of cyclopeptide inhibitors of cGAS targeting protein-DNA interaction and phase separation. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6132. [PMID: 37783727 PMCID: PMC10545747 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41892-5] [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: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is an essential sensor of aberrant cytosolic DNA for initiating innate immunity upon invading pathogens and cellular stress, which is considered as a potential drug target for autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. Here, we report the discovery of a class of cyclopeptide inhibitors of cGAS identified by an in vitro screening assay from a focused library of cyclic peptides. These cyclopeptides specifically bind to the DNA binding site of cGAS and block the binding of dsDNA with cGAS, subsequently inhibit dsDNA-induced liquid phase condensation and activation of cGAS. The specificity and potency of one optimal lead XQ2B were characterized in cellular assays. Concordantly, XQ2B inhibited herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1)-induced antiviral immune responses and enhanced HSV-1 infection in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, XQ2B significantly suppressed the elevated levels of type I interferon and proinflammatory cytokines in primary macrophages from Trex1-/- mice and systemic inflammation in Trex1-/- mice. XQ2B represents the specific cGAS inhibitor targeting protein-DNA interaction and phase separation and serves as a scaffold for the development of therapies in the treatment of cGAS-dependent inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoquan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Youqiao Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, SunYat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Anqi Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Qinhong Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Daoyuan Chen
- School of Bioengineering, ZhuHai Campus of Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, 519041, China
| | - Weiqi Zhao
- Genetics and Metabolism Department, The Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, 310052, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Genetics and Metabolism Department, The Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, 310052, China
| | - Qinkai Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Xianzhang Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, SunYat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Junmin Quan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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19
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Muslimov A, Tereshchenko V, Shevyrev D, Rogova A, Lepik K, Reshetnikov V, Ivanov R. The Dual Role of the Innate Immune System in the Effectiveness of mRNA Therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14820. [PMID: 37834268 PMCID: PMC10573212 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914820] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in molecular biology have revolutionized the use of messenger RNA (mRNA) as a therapeutic. The concept of nucleic acid therapy with mRNA originated in 1990 when Wolff et al. reported successful expression of proteins in target organs by direct injection of either plasmid DNA or mRNA. It took decades to bring the transfection efficiency of mRNA closer to that of DNA. The next few decades were dedicated to turning in vitro-transcribed (IVT) mRNA from a promising delivery tool for gene therapy into a full-blown therapeutic modality, which changed the biotech market rapidly. Hundreds of clinical trials are currently underway using mRNA for prophylaxis and therapy of infectious diseases and cancers, in regenerative medicine, and genome editing. The potential of IVT mRNA to induce an innate immune response favors its use for vaccination and immunotherapy. Nonetheless, in non-immunotherapy applications, the intrinsic immunostimulatory activity of mRNA directly hinders the desired therapeutic effect since it can seriously impair the target protein expression. Targeting the same innate immune factors can increase the effectiveness of mRNA therapeutics for some indications and decrease it for others, and vice versa. The review aims to present the innate immunity-related 'barriers' or 'springboards' that may affect the development of immunotherapies and non-immunotherapy applications of mRNA medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Muslimov
- Scientific Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Olympic Ave 1, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (V.T.); (D.S.); (V.R.); (R.I.)
- Laboratory of Nano- and Microencapsulation of Biologically Active Substances, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Polytechnicheskaya 29, 195251 St. Petersburg, Russia;
- RM Gorbacheva Research Institute, Pavlov University, L’va Tolstogo 6-8, 197022 St. Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Valeriy Tereshchenko
- Scientific Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Olympic Ave 1, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (V.T.); (D.S.); (V.R.); (R.I.)
| | - Daniil Shevyrev
- Scientific Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Olympic Ave 1, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (V.T.); (D.S.); (V.R.); (R.I.)
| | - Anna Rogova
- Laboratory of Nano- and Microencapsulation of Biologically Active Substances, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Polytechnicheskaya 29, 195251 St. Petersburg, Russia;
- Saint-Petersburg Chemical-Pharmaceutical University, Professora Popova 14, 197376 St. Petersburg, Russia
- School of Physics and Engineering, ITMO University, Lomonosova 9, 191002 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Kirill Lepik
- RM Gorbacheva Research Institute, Pavlov University, L’va Tolstogo 6-8, 197022 St. Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Vasiliy Reshetnikov
- Scientific Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Olympic Ave 1, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (V.T.); (D.S.); (V.R.); (R.I.)
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Roman Ivanov
- Scientific Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Olympic Ave 1, 354340 Sirius, Russia; (V.T.); (D.S.); (V.R.); (R.I.)
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20
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Zhou J, Zhuang Z, Li J, Feng Z. Significance of the cGAS-STING Pathway in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13316. [PMID: 37686127 PMCID: PMC10487967 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway plays a significant role in health and disease. In this pathway, cGAS, one of the major cytosolic DNA sensors in mammalian cells, regulates innate immunity and the STING-dependent production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including type-I interferon. Moreover, the cGAS-STING pathway is integral to other cellular processes, such as cell death, cell senescence, and autophagy. Activation of the cGAS-STING pathway by "self" DNA is also attributed to various infectious diseases and autoimmune or inflammatory conditions. In addition, the cGAS-STING pathway activation functions as a link between innate and adaptive immunity, leading to the inhibition or facilitation of tumorigenesis; therefore, research targeting this pathway can provide novel clues for clinical applications to treat infectious, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases and even cancer. In this review, we focus on the cGAS-STING pathway and its corresponding cellular and molecular mechanisms in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinglin Zhou
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou 350117, China
| | - Zhan Zhuang
- Key Laboratory of College of First Clinical Medicine, College of First Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Taijiang Campus, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Jiamian Li
- Key Laboratory of College of First Clinical Medicine, College of First Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Taijiang Campus, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Zhihua Feng
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou 350117, China
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21
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Jin X, Wang W, Zhao X, Jiang W, Shao Q, Chen Z, Huang C. The battle between the innate immune cGAS-STING signaling pathway and human herpesvirus infection. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1235590. [PMID: 37600809 PMCID: PMC10433641 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1235590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of human herpesvirus (HHVs) is gradually increasing and has affected a wide range of population. HHVs can result in serious consequences such as tumors, neonatal malformations, sexually transmitted diseases, as well as pose an immense threat to the human health. The cGAS-STING pathway is one of the innate immune pattern-recognition receptors discovered recently. This article discusses the role of the cGAS-STING pathway in human diseases, especially in human herpesvirus infections, as well as highlights how these viruses act on this pathway to evade the host immunity. Moreover, the author provides a comprehensive overview of modulators of the cGAS-STING pathway. By focusing on the small molecule compounds based on the cGAS-STING pathway, novel targets and concepts have been proposed for the development of antiviral drugs and vaccines, while also providing a reference for the investigation of disease models related to the cGAS-STING pathway. HHV is a double-stranded DNA virus that can trigger the activation of intracellular DNA sensor cGAS, after which the host cells initiate a cascade of reactions that culminate in the secretion of type I interferon to restrict the viral replication. Meanwhile, the viral protein can interact with various molecules in the cGAS-STING pathway. Viruses can evade immune surveillance and maintain their replication by inhibiting the enzyme activity of cGAS and reducing the phosphorylation levels of STING, TBK1 and IRF3 and suppressing the interferon gene activation. Activators and inhibitors of the cGAS-STING pathway have yielded numerous promising research findings in vitro and in vivo pertaining to cGAS/STING-related disease models. However, there remains a dearth of small molecule modulators that have been successfully translated into clinical applications, which serves as a hurdle to be overcome in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximing Jin
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenjia Wang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinwei Zhao
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenhua Jiang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qingqing Shao
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhuo Chen
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Cong Huang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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22
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Chauhan C, Kaundal RK. Understanding the role of cGAS-STING signaling in ischemic stroke: a new avenue for drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2023; 18:1133-1149. [PMID: 37537969 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2023.2244409] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ischemic stroke is a significant global health challenge with limited treatment options. Neuroinflammation, driven by microglial activation, plays a critical role in stroke pathophysiology. The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway has emerged as a key player in microglial activation, sterile neuroinflammation, and cell death following stroke. Understanding the interplay between this pathway and stroke pathophysiology is crucial for exploring newer therapeutics for stroke patients. AREAS COVERED This review discusses the pivotal role of the cGAS-STING pathway in ischemic stroke. It explores the interplay between cGAS-STING activation, neuroinflammation, microglia activation, M2 polarization, neutrophil infiltration, and cytokine release. Additionally, the authors examine its contributions to various cell death programs (pyroptosis, apoptosis, necroptosis, lysosomal cell death, autophagy, and ferroptosis). The review summarizes recent studies on targeting cGAS-STING signaling in stroke, highlighting the therapeutic potential of small molecule inhibitors and RNA-based approaches in mitigating neuroinflammation, preventing cell death, and improving patient outcomes. EXPERT OPINION Understanding cGAS-STING signaling in ischemic stroke offers an exciting avenue for drug discovery. Targeting this pathway holds promise for developing novel therapeutics that effectively mitigate neuroinflammation, prevent cell death, and enhance patient outcomes. Further research and development of therapeutic strategies are warranted to fully exploit the potential of this pathway as a therapeutic target for stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandan Chauhan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Lucknow, India
| | - Ravinder Kumar Kaundal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Lucknow, India
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23
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Seok JK, Kim M, Kang HC, Cho YY, Lee HS, Lee JY. Beyond DNA sensing: expanding the role of cGAS/STING in immunity and diseases. Arch Pharm Res 2023:10.1007/s12272-023-01452-3. [PMID: 37354378 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-023-01452-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) is a DNA sensor that elicits a robust type I interferon response by recognizing ubiquitous danger-associated molecules. The cGAS/stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS/STING) is activated by endogenous DNA, including DNA released from mitochondria and extranuclear chromatin, as well as exogenous DNA derived from pathogenic microorganisms. cGAS/STING is positioned as a key axis of autoimmunity, the inflammatory response, and cancer progression, suggesting that the cGAS/STING signaling pathway represents an efficient therapeutic target. Based on the accumulated evidence, we present insights into the prevention and treatment of cGAS/STING-related chronic immune and inflammatory diseases. This review presents the current state of clinical and nonclinical development of modulators targeting cGAS/STING, providing useful information on the design of therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Kyung Seok
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Minhyuk Kim
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Han Chang Kang
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Yeon Cho
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Suk Lee
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo Young Lee
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, 14662, Republic of Korea.
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24
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Zeng M, Chen J, Li F, Li H, Zhao L, Jiang D, Dai J, Liu W. Ruthenium-Catalyzed Oxidative Synthesis of N-(2-triazine)indoles by C-H Activation. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28093676. [PMID: 37175086 PMCID: PMC10179826 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28093676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
1,3,5 triazines, especially indole functionalized triazine derivatives, exhibit excellent activities, such as anti-tumor, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities. Traditional methods for the synthesis of N-(2-triazine) indoles suffer from unstable materials and tedious operations. Transition-metal-catalyzed C-C/C-N coupling provides a powerful protocol for the synthesis of indoles by the C-H activation strategy. Here, we report the efficient ruthenium-catalyzed oxidative synthesis of N-(2-triazine) indoles by C-H activation from alkynes and various substituted triazine derivatives in a moderate to good yield, and all of the N-(2-triazine) indoles were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HRMS. This protocol can apply to the gram-scale synthesis of the N-(2-triazine) indole in a moderate yield. Moreover, the reaction is proposed to be performed via a six-membered ruthenacycle (II) intermediate, which suggests that the triazine ring could offer chelation assistance for the formation of N-(2-triazine) indoles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zeng
- School of Pharmacy and Life Science, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang 332005, China
| | - Jiaqi Chen
- School of Pharmacy and Life Science, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang 332005, China
| | - Fengye Li
- School of Pharmacy and Life Science, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang 332005, China
| | - Haojie Li
- School of Pharmacy and Life Science, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang 332005, China
| | - Lan Zhao
- School of Pharmacy and Life Science, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang 332005, China
| | - Dengzhao Jiang
- School of Pharmacy and Life Science, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang 332005, China
| | - Jun Dai
- School of Pharmacy and Life Science, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang 332005, China
| | - Wenbo Liu
- School of Pharmacy and Life Science, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang 332005, China
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25
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Li W, Huang Z, Luo Y, Cui Y, Xu M, Luo W, Wu G, Liang G. Tetrandrine alleviates atherosclerosis via inhibition of STING-TBK1 pathway and inflammation in macrophages. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 119:110139. [PMID: 37099944 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110139] [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: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease. Recent studies have showed that stimulator of interferon genes (STING), an important protein in innate immunity, mediates pro-inflammatory activation of macrophages in the development of AS. Tetrandrine (TET) is a natural bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid isolated from Stepania tetrandra and possesses anti-inflammatory activities, with unknown effects and mechanisms in AS. In this study, we explored the anti-atherosclerotic effects of TET and investigated the underlying mechanisms. Mouse primary peritoneal macrophages (MPMs) are challenged with cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP) or oxidized LDL (oxLDL). We found that pretreatment with TET dose-dependently inhibited cGAMP- or oxLDL-induced STING/ TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) signaling, then suppressing nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) activation and pro-inflammatory factor expression in MPMs. ApoE-/- mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) to develop an atherosclerotic phenotype. Administration of TET at 20 mg/kg/day significantly reduced HFD-induced atherosclerotic plaques, accompanied with decreased macrophage infiltration, inflammatory cytokine production, fibrosis, and STING/TBK1 activation in aortic plaque lesions. In summary, we demonstrate that TET inhibits STING/TBK1/NF-κB signaling pathway to reduce inflammation in oxLDL-challenged macrophages and alleviate atherosclerosis in HFD-fed ApoE-/- mice. These findings proved that TET could be a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of atherosclerosis-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixin Li
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China; Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Zhuqi Huang
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China; Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Yue Luo
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Yaqian Cui
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Mingjiang Xu
- Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Wu Luo
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China; Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Gaojun Wu
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China.
| | - Guang Liang
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China; Chemical Biology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311399, China.
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26
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Song J, Yang RR, Chang J, Liu YD, Lu CH, Chen LF, Guo H, Zhang YH, Fan ZS, Zhou JY, Zhou GZ, Zhang KK, Luo XM, Chen KX, Jiang HL, Zhang SL, Zheng MY. Discovery and characterization of a novel cGAS covalent inhibitor for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:791-800. [PMID: 36229599 PMCID: PMC10043009 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-01002-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), a cytosolic DNA sensor, acts as a nucleotidyl transferase that catalyzes ATP and GTP to form cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) and plays a critical role in innate immunity. Hyperactivation of cGAS-STING signaling contributes to hyperinflammatory responses. Therefore, cGAS is considered a promising target for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Herein, we report the discovery and identification of several novel types of cGAS inhibitors by pyrophosphatase (PPiase)-coupled activity assays. Among these inhibitors, 1-(1-phenyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazin-2-yl)prop-2-yn-1-one (compound 3) displayed the highest potency and selectivity at the cellular level. Compound 3 exhibited better inhibitory activity and pathway selectivity than RU.521, which is a selective cGAS inhibitor with anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and in vivo. Thermostability analysis, nuclear magnetic resonance and isothermal titration calorimetry assays confirmed that compound 3 directly binds to the cGAS protein. Mass spectrometry and mutation analysis revealed that compound 3 covalently binds to Cys419 of cGAS. Notably, compound 3 demonstrated promising therapeutic efficacy in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse colitis model. These results collectively suggest that compound 3 will be useful for understanding the biological function of cGAS and has the potential to be further developed for inflammatory disease therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Song
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, China
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Rui-Rui Yang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, and School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Jie Chang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Ya-Dan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Cheng-Hao Lu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Li-Fan Chen
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Hao Guo
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ying-Hui Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zi-Sheng Fan
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jing-Yi Zhou
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Gui-Zhen Zhou
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ke-Ke Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Xiao-Min Luo
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Kai-Xian Chen
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Hua-Liang Jiang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, China.
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, and School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, 200031, China.
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Su-Lin Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Ming-Yue Zheng
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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27
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Moghimi P, Sabet-Sarvestani H, Shiri A. Synthesis, molecular docking and dynamics studies of pyridazino[4,5- b]quinoxalin-1(2 H)-ones as targeting main protease of COVID-19. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:13198-13210. [PMID: 36951505 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2191127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has created a crisis in public health. Because, the 3CLpro, the main protease of SARS-CoV-2, possesses a critical role in coronavirus replication, many efforts have been devoted to developing various inhibitors to prevent the fast spread of COVID-19. In the current work, a number of various pyridazino[4,5-b]quinoxalin-1(2H)-one derivatives bearing thiadiazine and thiadiazole fragments has been prepared via a straightforward and practical strategy involving the reaction of 2-(ethoxycarbonyl)-3-formylquinoxaline 1,4-dioxide with thiocarbohydrazide under reflux conditions. To determine the bioavailability of pyridazino[4,5-b]quinoxalin-1(2H)-one derivatives, Lipinski's rule of five has been carried out. Regarding this rule, none of the synthesized compounds exhibit any deviation from Lipinski's rule of five. Furthermore, molecular docking and molecular dynamics approaches have been implemented to figure out the potential interactions of products with SARS-CoV-2 main protease. The outcomes of molecular docking studies demonstrate that the phenyl and nitrophenyl substituted pyridazino[4,5-b]quinoxalin-1(2H)-one show the lowest binding affinity among the other compounds, indicating a favorable orientation in the active site of the chymotrypsin-like cysteine protease. In addition, the MD simulation performed to evaluate the stability of the protein-ligand complex represents that the average binding energy of the nitrophenyl complex is less than that of the phenyl complex. Therefore, according to the in silico results, the inhibitory effect of the nitrophenyl complex is more significant than the phenyl complex.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parvin Moghimi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Ali Shiri
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
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28
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Patel DJ, Yu Y, Xie W. cGAMP-activated cGAS-STING signaling: its bacterial origins and evolutionary adaptation by metazoans. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2023; 30:245-260. [PMID: 36894694 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-023-00933-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
The metazoan cGAMP-activated cGAS-STING innate immunity pathway is triggered in response to genomic instability and DNA damage, thereby providing host defense against microbial pathogens. This pathway also impacts on autophagy, cellular senescence and antitumor immunity, while its overactivation triggers autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Metazoan cGAS generates cGAMP containing distinct combinations of 3'-5' and 2'-5' linkages, which target the adaptor protein STING and activate the innate immune response through a signaling cascade leading to upregulation of cytokine and interferon production. This Review highlights a structure-based mechanistic perspective of recent advances in cGAMP-activated cGAS-STING innate immune signaling by focusing on the cGAS sensor, cGAMP second messenger and STING adaptor components, thereby elucidating the specificity, activation, regulation and signal transduction features of the pathway. In addition, the Review addresses progress towards identification of inhibitors and activators targeting cGAS and STING, as well as strategies developed by pathogens to evade cGAS-STING immunity. Most importantly, it highlights cyclic nucleotide second messengers as ancient signaling molecules that elicit a potent innate immune response that originated in bacteria and evolved through evolutionary adaptation to metazoans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinshaw J Patel
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - You Yu
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wei Xie
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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29
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Zhou JY, Yang RR, Chang J, Song J, Fan ZS, Zhang YH, Lu CH, Jiang HL, Zheng MY, Zhang SL. Discovery and identification of a novel small molecule BCL-2 inhibitor that binds to the BH4 domain. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:475-485. [PMID: 35918411 PMCID: PMC9889308 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00936-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) protein family plays a pivotal role in regulating the apoptosis process. BCL-2, as an antiapoptotic protein in this family, mediates apoptosis resistance and is an ideal target for cell death strategies in cancer therapy. Traditional treatment modalities target BCL-2 by occupying the hydrophobic pocket formed by BCL-2 homology (BH) domains 1-3, while in recent years, the BH4 domain of BCL-2 has also been considered an attractive novel target. Herein, we describe the discovery and identification of DC-B01, a novel BCL-2 inhibitor targeting the BH4 domain, through virtual screening combined with biophysical and biochemical methods. Our results from surface plasmon resonance and cellular thermal shift assay confirmed that the BH4 domain is responsible for the interaction between BCL-2 and DC-B01. As evidenced by further cell-based experiments, DC-B01 induced cell killing in a BCL-2-dependent manner and triggered apoptosis via the mitochondria-mediated pathway. DC-B01 disrupted the BCL-2/c-Myc interaction and consequently suppressed the transcriptional activity of c-Myc. Moreover, DC-B01 inhibited tumor growth in vivo in a BCL‑2‑dependent manner. Collectively, these results indicate that DC-B01 is a promising BCL-2 BH4 domain inhibitor with the potential for further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Yi Zhou
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Rui-Rui Yang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, and School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Huaxiazhong Road, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Jie Chang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jia Song
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, China
| | - Zi-Sheng Fan
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Ying-Hui Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Cheng-Hao Lu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hua-Liang Jiang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China.
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Ming-Yue Zheng
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210023, China.
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Su-Lin Zhang
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China.
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30
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Protasoni M, Serrano M. Targeting Mitochondria to Control Ageing and Senescence. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020352. [PMID: 36839673 PMCID: PMC9960816 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Ageing is accompanied by a progressive impairment of cellular function and a systemic deterioration of tissues and organs, resulting in increased vulnerability to multiple diseases. Here, we review the interplay between two hallmarks of ageing, namely, mitochondrial dysfunction and cellular senescence. The targeting of specific mitochondrial features in senescent cells has the potential of delaying or even reverting the ageing process. A deeper and more comprehensive understanding of mitochondrial biology in senescent cells is necessary to effectively face this challenge. Here, we discuss the main alterations in mitochondrial functions and structure in both ageing and cellular senescence, highlighting the differences and similarities between the two processes. Moreover, we describe the treatments available to target these pathways and speculate on possible future directions of anti-ageing and anti-senescence therapies targeting mitochondria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Protasoni
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Serrano
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain
- Cambridge Institute of Science, Altos Labs, Granta Park, Cambridge CB21 6GP, UK
- Correspondence:
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31
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Schmitz CRR, Maurmann RM, Guma FTCR, Bauer ME, Barbé-Tuana FM. cGAS-STING pathway as a potential trigger of immunosenescence and inflammaging. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1132653. [PMID: 36926349 PMCID: PMC10011111 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1132653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with an increased incidence of autoimmune diseases, despite the progressive decline of immune responses (immunosenescence). This apparent paradox can be explained by the age-related chronic low-grade systemic inflammation (inflammaging) and progressive dysregulation of innate signaling. During cellular aging, there is an accumulation of damaged DNA in the cell's cytoplasm, which serves as ubiquitous danger-associated molecule, promptly recognized by DNA sensors. For instance, the free cytoplasmic DNA can be recognized, by DNA-sensing molecules like cGAS-STING (cyclic GMP-AMP synthase linked to a stimulator of interferon genes), triggering transcriptional factors involved in the secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators. However, the contribution of this pathway to the aging immune system remains largely unknown. Here, we highlight recent advances in understanding the biology of the cGAS-STING pathway, its influence on the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), and its modulation of the immune system during sterile inflammation. We propose that this important stress sensor of DNA damage is also a trigger of immunosenescence and inflammaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carine Raquel Richter Schmitz
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Biológicas - Bioquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Rafael Moura Maurmann
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Fatima T C R Guma
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Biológicas - Bioquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Moisés Evandro Bauer
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia - Neuroimunomodulação (INCT-NIM), Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq), Brasília, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Gerontologia Biomédica, Escola de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Florencia Maria Barbé-Tuana
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Escola de Ciências da Saúde e da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular da Escola de Ciências da Saúde da Vida, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Pediatria e Saúde da Criança da Escola de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Xie X, Wu X, Zhao D, Liu Y, Du Q, Li Y, Xu Y, Li Y, Qiu Y, Yang Y. Fluvoxamine alleviates bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis via regulating the cGAS-STING pathway. Pharmacol Res 2023; 187:106577. [PMID: 36435270 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal disease with high mortality and limited effective therapy. Herein, we reported that fluvoxamine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), used in depression and anxiety treatment, also exhibited therapeutic activities in IPF. Fluvoxamine inhibited cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and stimulator of interferon genes (STING), restrained the activation of their downstream targets, including PERK/ eIF2α/ c-Myc/ miR-9-5p/ TBPL1 and TBK1/ YAP/ JNK1/2/ Bnip3/ CaMKII/ cofilin signaling, thus attenuated the activation and migration of fibroblasts upon TGF-β1 challenge. Fluvoxamine dose-dependently improved pulmonary function, decreased the expression of inflammatory factors, reduced excessive production of extracellular matrix, and thus alleviated bleomycin (BLM)-induced lung fibrosis in mice. Moreover, fluvoxamine at a dose of 10 mg/ kg showed similar efficacy as pirfenidone (PFD) at a dose of 30 mg/kg in a mice model of lung fibrosis. In summary, our results suggest that fluvoxamine is an effective anti-fibrotic agent for IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Xie
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, No.55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen 361003, China; Institute of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No.55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen 361003, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361003, China
| | | | - Ying Liu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Qiyue Du
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yitian Li
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Third Hospital of Mianyang/Sichuan Mental Health Center, Mianyang 621000, Sichuan, China
| | - Yaping Xu
- Institute of Respiratory Diseases Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, Fujian 361002, China; Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, Fujian 361002, China
| | - Yuhang Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Design and Assembly of Functional Nanostructures, and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanomaterials, Fujian Institute of Research on the Structure of Matter, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China; Xiamen Institute of Rare-earth Materials, Haixi Institutes, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Fujian 361005, China.
| | - Yan Qiu
- Eye Institute of Xiamen University, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yungang Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, No.55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen 361003, China; Institute of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, No.55 Zhenhai Road, Xiamen 361003, China.
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Liu J, Rui K, Peng N, Luo H, Zhu B, Zuo X, Lu L, Chen J, Tian J. The cGAS-STING pathway: Post-translational modifications and functional implications in diseases. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2022; 68:69-80. [PMID: 36151014 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have illustrated the functional significance of DNA recognition in the activation of innate immune responses among a variety of diseases. The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway has been found to be modulated by post-translational modifications and can regulate the immune response via type I IFNs. Accumulating evidence indicates a pivotal role of cGAS-STING signaling, being protective or pathogenic, in the development of diseases. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the post-translational modifications of cGAS-STING pathway and their role in disease development will provide insights in predicting individual disease outcomes and developing appropriate therapies. In this review, we will discuss the regulation of the cGAS-STING pathway and its implications in disease pathologies, as well as pharmacologic strategies to target the cGAS-STING pathway for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Liu
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Ke Rui
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
| | - Na Peng
- Department of Rheumatology, the Second People's Hospital, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Hui Luo
- Department of Rheumatology and immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Bo Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xiaoxia Zuo
- Department of Rheumatology and immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Liwei Lu
- Department of Pathology and Shenzhen Institute of Research and Innovation, The University of Hong Kong; Chongqing International Institute for Immunology, China
| | - Jixiang Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
| | - Jie Tian
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China; Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
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Zhang M, Zou Y, Zhou X, Zhou J. Inhibitory targeting cGAS-STING-TBK1 axis: Emerging strategies for autoimmune diseases therapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:954129. [PMID: 36172373 PMCID: PMC9511411 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.954129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The cGAS-STING signaling plays an integral role in the host immune response, and the abnormal activation of cGAS-STING is highly related to various autoimmune diseases. Therefore, targeting the cGAS-STING-TBK1 axis has become a promising strategy in therapy of autoimmune diseases. Herein, we summarized the key pathways mediated by the cGAS-STING-TBK1 axis and various cGAS-STING-TBK1 related autoimmune diseases, as well as the recent development of cGAS, STING, or TBK1 selective inhibitors and their potential application in therapy of cGAS-STING-TBK1 related autoimmune diseases. Overall, the review highlights that inhibiting cGAS-STING-TBK1 signaling is an attractive strategy for autoimmune disease therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
- Drug development and innovation center, College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
| | - Yan Zou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
- Drug development and innovation center, College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
| | - Xujun Zhou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
- Drug development and innovation center, College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
| | - Jinming Zhou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
- Drug development and innovation center, College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
- *Correspondence: Jinming Zhou,
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35
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Tian X, Xu F, Zhu Q, Feng Z, Dai W, Zhou Y, You QD, Xu X. Medicinal chemistry perspective on cGAS-STING signaling pathway with small molecule inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 244:114791. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Shahari MSB, Dolzhenko AV. A closer look at N2,6-substituted 1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamines: Advances in synthesis and biological activities. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 241:114645. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Zhang Q, Chen C, Xia B, Xu P. Chemical regulation of the cGAS-STING pathway. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2022; 69:102170. [PMID: 35753220 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.102170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Nucleic acids represent a major class of pathogen and damage signatures, recognized by a variety of host sensors to initiate signaling cascades and immune responses, such as mechanisms of RLR-MAVS, cGAS-STING, TLR-TRIF, and AIM2 inflammasome. Yet, an outstanding challenge is understanding how nucleic acid sensing initiates immune responses and its tethering in various infectious, cancerous, autoimmune, and inflammatory diseases. However, the discovery and application of a plethora of small molecule compounds have substantially facilitated this process. This review provides an overview and recent development of the innate DNA-sensing pathway of cGAS-STING and highlights the multiple agonists and inhibitors in fine-tuning the pathway that can be exploited to improve disease treatment, focusing primarily on crucial pathway components and regulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Chen Chen
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Bing Xia
- Department of Thoracic Cancer, Affiliated Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Pinglong Xu
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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Moghimi P, Sabet-Sarvestani H, Kohandel O, Shiri A. Pyrido[1,2- e]purine: Design and Synthesis of Appropriate Inhibitory Candidates against the Main Protease of COVID-19. J Org Chem 2022; 87:3922-3933. [PMID: 35225616 PMCID: PMC8905926 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.1c02237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A series of tricyclic and polycyclic pyrido[1,2-e]purine derivatives were designed and synthesized via a two-step, one-pot reaction of 2,4-dichloro-5-amino-6-methylpyrimidine with pyridine under reflux conditions. Various derivatives of pyrido[1,2-e]purine were also synthesized by substituting the chlorine atom with secondary amines. After careful physiochemical and pharmacokinetic predictions, the inhibitory effects of the synthesized compounds against the main protease of SARS-CoV-2 have been evaluated by molecular docking and molecular dynamics approaches. The in silico results revealed that among all of the studied compounds, the morpholine/piperidine-substituted pyrido[1,2-e]purine derivatives are the best candidates as effective inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parvin Moghimi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science,
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad,
Iran
| | | | - Omid Kohandel
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science,
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad,
Iran
| | - Ali Shiri
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science,
Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad,
Iran
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Hong Z, Mei J, Guo H, Zhu J, Wang C. OUP accepted manuscript. J Mol Cell Biol 2022; 14:6515952. [PMID: 35084490 PMCID: PMC9122663 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjac005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sterile inflammation characterized by unresolved chronic inflammation is well established to promote the progression of multiple autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases, collectively termed ‘sterile inflammatory diseases’. By recognizing host-derived DNA, cyclic guanosine monophosphate–adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS) activates endoplasmic reticulum-associated stimulator of interferon genes (STING), which leads to the induction of type I interferons and inflammatory cytokines or immunogenic cell death that promotes sterile inflammation. Additionally, the DNA/cGAS-independent mode of STING activation has also been characterized in the progression of several sterile inflammatory diseases. This review focuses on the molecular mechanism of cGAS-dependent and cGAS-independent STING signaling under various disease conditions, particularly highlighting the diverse initiators upon this signaling pathway. We also summarize recent advances in the discovery of antagonists targeting cGAS and STING and the evaluation of their efficiencies in preclinical models. Finally, we discuss potential differences in the clinical applications of the specific antagonists, which may shed light on the precision therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hanli Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | | | - Chen Wang
- Correspondence to: Chen Wang, E-mail:
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The cGAS-STING signaling in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases: Future novel target option for pharmacotherapy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:50-75. [PMID: 35127372 PMCID: PMC8799861 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling exert essential regulatory function in microbial-and onco-immunology through the induction of cytokines, primarily type I interferons. Recently, the aberrant and deranged signaling of the cGAS-STING axis is closely implicated in multiple sterile inflammatory diseases, including heart failure, myocardial infarction, cardiac hypertrophy, nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases, aortic aneurysm and dissection, obesity, etc. This is because of the massive loads of damage-associated molecular patterns (mitochondrial DNA, DNA in extracellular vesicles) liberated from recurrent injury to metabolic cellular organelles and tissues, which are sensed by the pathway. Also, the cGAS-STING pathway crosstalk with essential intracellular homeostasis processes like apoptosis, autophagy, and regulate cellular metabolism. Targeting derailed STING signaling has become necessary for chronic inflammatory diseases. Meanwhile, excessive type I interferons signaling impact on cardiovascular and metabolic health remain entirely elusive. In this review, we summarize the intimate connection between the cGAS-STING pathway and cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. We also discuss some potential small molecule inhibitors for the pathway. This review provides insight to stimulate interest in and support future research into understanding this signaling axis in cardiovascular and metabolic tissues and diseases.
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Key Words
- AA, amino acids
- AAD, aortic aneurysm and dissection
- AKT, protein kinase B
- AMPK, AMP-activated protein kinase
- ATP, adenosine triphosphate
- Ang II, angiotensin II
- CBD, C-binding domain
- CDG, c-di-GMP
- CDNs, cyclic dinucleotides
- CTD, C-terminal domain
- CTT, C-terminal tail
- CVDs, cardiovascular diseases
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Cys, cysteine
- DAMPs, danger-associated molecular patterns
- Damage-associated molecular patterns
- DsbA-L, disulfide-bond A oxidoreductase-like protein
- ER stress
- ER, endoplasmic reticulum
- GTP, guanosine triphosphate
- HAQ, R71H-G230A-R293Q
- HFD, high-fat diet
- ICAM-1, intracellular adhesion molecule 1
- IFN, interferon
- IFN-I, type 1 interferon
- IFNAR, interferon receptors
- IFNIC, interferon-inducible cells
- IKK, IκB kinase
- IL, interleukin
- IRF3, interferon regulatory factor 3
- ISGs, IRF-3-dependent interferon-stimulated genes
- Inflammation
- LBD, ligand-binding pocket
- LPS, lipopolysaccharides
- MI, myocardial infarction
- MLKL, mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein
- MST1, mammalian Ste20-like kinases 1
- Metabolic diseases
- Mitochondria
- NAFLD, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
- NASH, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- NF-κB, nuclear factor-kappa B
- NLRP3, NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3
- NO2-FA, nitro-fatty acids
- NTase, nucleotidyltransferase
- PDE3B/4, phosphodiesterase-3B/4
- PKA, protein kinase A
- PPI, protein–protein interface
- Poly: I.C, polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid
- ROS, reactive oxygen species
- SAVI, STING-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy
- SNPs, single nucleotide polymorphisms
- STIM1, stromal interaction molecule 1
- STING
- STING, stimulator of interferon genes
- Ser, serine
- TAK1, transforming growth factor β-activated kinase 1
- TBK1, TANK-binding kinase 1
- TFAM, mitochondrial transcription factor A
- TLR, Toll-like receptors
- TM, transmembrane
- TNFα, tumor necrosis factor-alpha
- TRAF6, tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6
- TREX1, three prime repair exonuclease 1
- YAP1, Yes-associated protein 1
- cGAMP, 2′,3′-cyclic GMP–AMP
- cGAS
- cGAS, cyclic GMP–AMP synthase
- dsDNA, double-stranded DNA
- hSTING, human stimulator of interferon genes
- mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin
- mtDNA, mitochondrial DNA
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Li Q, Tian S, Liang J, Fan J, Lai J, Chen Q. Therapeutic Development by Targeting the cGAS-STING Pathway in Autoimmune Disease and Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:779425. [PMID: 34867409 PMCID: PMC8634458 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.779425] [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: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA immune recognition regulation mediated by the cGAS-STING pathway plays an important role in immune functions. Under normal physiological conditions, cGAS can recognize and bind to invading pathogen DNA and activate the innate immune response. On the other hand, abnormal activation of cGAS or STING is closely related to autoimmune diseases. In addition, activation of STING proteins as a bridge connecting innate immunity and adaptive immunity can effectively restrain tumor growth. Therefore, targeting the cGAS-STING pathway can alleviate autoimmune symptoms and be a potential drug target for treating cancer. This article summarizes the current progress on cGAS-STING pathway modulators and lays the foundation for further investigating therapeutic development in autoimmune diseases and tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiumei Li
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shuoran Tian
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jiadi Liang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jiqiang Fan
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Junzhong Lai
- The Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Qi Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
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Cao X, Cordova AF, Li L. Therapeutic Interventions Targeting Innate Immune Receptors: A Balancing Act. Chem Rev 2021; 122:3414-3458. [PMID: 34870969 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The innate immune system is an organism's first line of defense against an onslaught of internal and external threats. The downstream adaptive immune system has been a popular target for therapeutic intervention, while there is a relative paucity of therapeutics targeting the innate immune system. However, the innate immune system plays a critical role in many human diseases, such as microbial infection, cancer, and autoimmunity, highlighting the need for ongoing therapeutic research. In this review, we discuss the major innate immune pathways and detail the molecular strategies underpinning successful therapeutics targeting each pathway as well as previous and ongoing efforts. We will also discuss any recent discoveries that could inform the development of novel therapeutic strategies. As our understanding of the innate immune system continues to develop, we envision that therapies harnessing the power of the innate immune system will become the mainstay of treatment for a wide variety of human diseases.
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Hong Z, Ma T, Liu X, Wang C. cGAS-STING pathway: post-translational modifications and functions in sterile inflammatory diseases. FEBS J 2021; 289:6187-6208. [PMID: 34310043 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cytoplasmic microbial and host aberrant DNAs act as danger signals and trigger host immune responses. Upon recognition, the cytosolic DNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) catalyzes the production of a second messenger 2'3'-cGAMP, which activates endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated stimulator of interferon (IFN) genes (STING) and ultimately leads to the induction of type I IFNs and inflammatory genes that collectively initiate host immune defense against microbial invasion. Inappropriate activation or suppression of this signaling pathway has been implicated in the development of some autoimmune diseases, sterile inflammation, and cancers. In this review, we describe how the activity of cGAS and STING is regulated by host post-translational modifications and summarize the recent advances of cell-specific cGAS-STING activation and its association in sterile inflammatory diseases. We also discuss key outstanding questions in the field, including how our knowledge of cGAS-STING pathway could be translated into clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianchi Ma
- Center for Microbes, Development and Health, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xing Liu
- Center for Microbes, Development and Health, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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44
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Valentin R, Wong C, Alharbi AS, Pradeloux S, Morros MP, Lennox KA, Ellyard JI, Garcin AJ, Ullah TR, Kusuma GD, Pépin G, Li HM, Pearson JS, Ferrand J, Lim R, Veedu RN, Morand EF, Vinuesa CG, Behlke MA, Gantier MP. Sequence-dependent inhibition of cGAS and TLR9 DNA sensing by 2'-O-methyl gapmer oligonucleotides. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:6082-6099. [PMID: 34057477 PMCID: PMC8216285 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Oligonucleotide-based therapeutics have the capacity to engage with nucleic acid immune sensors to activate or block their response, but a detailed understanding of these immunomodulatory effects is currently lacking. We recently showed that 2′-O-methyl (2′OMe) gapmer antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) exhibited sequence-dependent inhibition of sensing by the RNA sensor Toll-Like Receptor (TLR) 7. Here we discovered that 2′OMe ASOs can also display sequence-dependent inhibitory effects on two major sensors of DNA, namely cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and TLR9. Through a screen of 80 2′OMe ASOs and sequence mutants, we characterized key features within the 20-mer ASOs regulating cGAS and TLR9 inhibition, and identified a highly potent cGAS inhibitor. Importantly, we show that the features of ASOs inhibiting TLR9 differ from those inhibiting cGAS, with only a few sequences inhibiting both pathways. Together with our previous studies, our work reveals a complex pattern of immunomodulation where 95% of the ASOs tested inhibited at least one of TLR7, TLR9 or cGAS by ≥30%, which may confound interpretation of their in vivo functions. Our studies constitute the broadest analysis of the immunomodulatory effect of 2′OMe ASOs on nucleic acid sensing to date and will support refinement of their therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxane Valentin
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Christophe Wong
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Arwaf S Alharbi
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.,The Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Turabah 29179, Saudi Arabia
| | - Solène Pradeloux
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Makala P Morros
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Kim A Lennox
- Integrated DNA Technologies Inc., Coralville, IA 52241, USA
| | - Julia I Ellyard
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.,Centre for Personalised Immunology, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Aurélie J Garcin
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Tomalika R Ullah
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Gina D Kusuma
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Geneviève Pépin
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Hong-Mei Li
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Jaclyn S Pearson
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Jonathan Ferrand
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lim
- Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.,Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Rakesh N Veedu
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia 6150, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| | - Eric F Morand
- School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Carola G Vinuesa
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.,Centre for Personalised Immunology, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Mark A Behlke
- Integrated DNA Technologies Inc., Coralville, IA 52241, USA
| | - Michael P Gantier
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
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45
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Tan J, Wu B, Chen T, Fan C, Zhao J, Xiong C, Feng C, Xiao R, Ding C, Tang W, Zhang A. Synthesis and Pharmacological Evaluation of Tetrahydro-γ-carboline Derivatives as Potent Anti-inflammatory Agents Targeting Cyclic GMP-AMP Synthase. J Med Chem 2021; 64:7667-7690. [PMID: 34044539 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The activation of cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) by double-stranded DNA is implicated in the pathogenesis of many hyperinflammatory and autoimmune diseases, and the cGAS-targeting small molecule has emerged as a novel therapeutic strategy for treating these diseases. However, the currently reported cGAS inhibitors are far beyond maturity, barely demonstrating in vivo efficacy. Inspired by the structural novelty of compound 5 (G140), we conducted a structural optimization on both its side chain and the central tricyclic core, leading to several subseries of compounds, including those unexpectedly cyclized complex ones. Compound 25 bearing an N-glycylglycinoyl side chain was identified as the most potent one with cellular IC50 values of 1.38 and 11.4 μM for h- and m-cGAS, respectively. Mechanistic studies confirmed its direct targeting of cGAS. Further, compound 25 showed superior in vivo anti-inflammatory effects in the lipopolysaccharide-induced mouse model. The encouraging result of compound 25 provides solid evidence for further pursuit of cGAS-targeting inhibitors as a new anti-inflammatory treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Tan
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Bing Wu
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Tingting Chen
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Chen Fan
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jiannan Zhao
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Chaodong Xiong
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chunlan Feng
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ruoxuan Xiao
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Chunyong Ding
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Molecular Engineering of Chiral Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Wei Tang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ao Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Molecular Engineering of Chiral Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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46
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Wang X, Liu Y, Han X, Zou G, Zhu W, Shen H, Liu H. Small molecule approaches to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases (Part II): Nucleic acid sensing antagonists and inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2021; 44:128101. [PMID: 33984476 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2021.128101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid sensing pathways play an important role in the innate immune system, protecting hosts against infections. However, a large body of evidence supports a close association between aberrant activation of those pathways and autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Part II of the digest series on small molecule approaches to autoimmune and inflammatory diseases concentrates on recent advances with respect to small molecule antagonists or inhibitors of the nucleic acid sensing pathways, including endosomal TLRs, NLRP3 inflammasome and cGAS-STING.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yafei Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xingchun Han
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ge Zou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hong Shen
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Haixia Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Shanghai 201203, China.
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47
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Yu L, Liu P. Cytosolic DNA sensing by cGAS: regulation, function, and human diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:170. [PMID: 33927185 PMCID: PMC8085147 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00554-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensing invasive cytosolic DNA is an integral component of innate immunity. cGAS was identified in 2013 as the major cytosolic DNA sensor that binds dsDNA to catalyze the synthesis of a special asymmetric cyclic-dinucleotide, 2'3'-cGAMP, as the secondary messenger to bind and activate STING for subsequent production of type I interferons and other immune-modulatory genes. Hyperactivation of cGAS signaling contributes to autoimmune diseases but serves as an adjuvant for anticancer immune therapy. On the other hand, inactivation of cGAS signaling causes deficiency to sense and clear the viral and bacterial infection and creates a tumor-prone immune microenvironment to facilitate tumor evasion of immune surveillance. Thus, cGAS activation is tightly controlled. In this review, we summarize up-to-date multilayers of regulatory mechanisms governing cGAS activation, including cGAS pre- and post-translational regulations, cGAS-binding proteins, and additional cGAS regulators such as ions and small molecules. We will also reveal the pathophysiological function of cGAS and its product cGAMP in human diseases. We hope to provide an up-to-date review for recent research advances of cGAS biology and cGAS-targeted therapies for human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Yu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Pengda Liu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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48
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Guo J, Li M, Zhang Y, Xi L, Cui F. Conformational dynamics is critical for the allosteric inhibition of cGAS upon acetyl-mimic mutations. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2021; 23:2154-2165. [PMID: 33438687 DOI: 10.1039/d0cp05871h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Detection of cytosolic dsDNA by cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is critical for the immune system to sense and fight against infection, but chronic activation of cGAS by self-DNA leads to autoimmune diseases without effective treatment yet. It was found that acetylation on either Lys384, Lys394, or Lys414 could inhibit the catalytic production of cGAMP by cGAS, and further suppressed self-DNA-induced autoimmunity. However, the implied mechanism remains unclear. Here, extensive molecular dynamics simulations combined with multiple analytical approaches were employed to uncover the allosteric inhibition mechanisms by using the K-to-Q mutations to mimic acetylation. Results suggested that the exterior loops contributed most to the conformational dynamics of cGAS, and two concerted intrinsic motions were observed: the inward/outward or twisting movement for the outer appendage of lobe 1 and the open/closed swing of the active-site loops. Mutations slightly affected the binding of dsDNA and cGAMP. The shift of the conformational sampling of the active-site loops or residues around cGAMP upon mutation might potentially explain the inhibition of cGAS activity. Moreover, the intra- and inter-molecular coupling was weakened upon mutations more or less but via distinct pathways. Hence, conformational dynamics play a vital role in the allosteric inhibition of cGAS upon the studied acetyl-mimic mutations. As the studied acetyl-mimic mutations are located at either the inter-lobe or inter-molecular interfaces, hence except for acetylation, our findings might help the development of new therapeutics against autoimmune diseases due to abnormal cGAS activation by designing inter-lobe or intermolecular allosteric inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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49
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Abstract
The cGAS-STING signalling pathway has emerged as a key mediator of inflammation in the settings of infection, cellular stress and tissue damage. Underlying this broad involvement of the cGAS-STING pathway is its capacity to sense and regulate the cellular response towards microbial and host-derived DNAs, which serve as ubiquitous danger-associated molecules. Insights into the structural and molecular biology of the cGAS-STING pathway have enabled the development of selective small-molecule inhibitors with the potential to target the cGAS-STING axis in a number of inflammatory diseases in humans. Here, we outline the principal elements of the cGAS-STING signalling cascade and discuss the general mechanisms underlying the association of cGAS-STING activity with various autoinflammatory, autoimmune and degenerative diseases. Finally, we outline the chemical nature of recently developed cGAS and STING antagonists and summarize their potential clinical applications.
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50
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Hertzog J, Rehwinkel J. Regulation and inhibition of the DNA sensor cGAS. EMBO Rep 2020; 21:e51345. [PMID: 33155371 PMCID: PMC7726805 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202051345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-autonomous sensing of nucleic acids is essential for host defence against invading pathogens by inducing antiviral and inflammatory cytokines. cGAS has emerged in recent years as a non-redundant DNA sensor important for detection of many viruses and bacteria. Upon binding to DNA, cGAS synthesises the cyclic dinucleotide 2'3'-cGAMP that binds to the adaptor protein STING and thereby triggers IRF3- and NFκB-dependent transcription. In addition to infection, the pathophysiology of an ever-increasing number of sterile inflammatory conditions in humans involves the recognition of DNA through cGAS. Consequently, the cGAS/STING signalling axis has emerged as an attractive target for pharmacological modulation. However, the development of cGAS and STING inhibitors has just begun and a need for specific and effective compounds persists. In this review, we focus on cGAS and explore how its activation by immunostimulatory DNA is regulated by cellular mechanisms, viral immune modulators and small molecules. We further use our knowledge of cGAS modulation by cells and viruses to conceptualise potential new ways of pharmacological cGAS targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonny Hertzog
- MRC Human Immunology UnitMRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular MedicineRadcliffe Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Jan Rehwinkel
- MRC Human Immunology UnitMRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular MedicineRadcliffe Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
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