1
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Chen H, Zhang Y, Wen Y, Fan X, Sciolino N, Lin Y, Breindel L, Dai Y, Shekhtman A, Xue XS, Zhang Q. Production of constrained L-cyclo-tetrapeptides by epimerization-resistant direct aminolysis. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5372. [PMID: 38918367 PMCID: PMC11199569 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49329-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The synthesis of constrained 12-membered rings is notably difficult. The main challenges result from constraints during the linear peptide cyclization. Attempts to overcome constraints through excessive activation frequently cause peptidyl epimerization, while insufficient activation of the C-terminus hampers cyclization and promotes intermolecular oligomer formation. We present a β-thiolactone framework that enables the synthesis of cyclo-tetrapeptides via direct aminolysis. This tactic utilizes a mechanism that restricts C-terminal carbonyl rotation while maintaining high reactivity, thereby enabling efficient head-to-tail amidation, reducing oligomerization, and preventing epimerization. A broad range of challenging cyclo-tetrapeptides ( > 20 examples) are synthesized in buffer and exhibits excellent tolerance toward nearly all proteinogenic amino acids. Previously unattainable macrocycles, such as cyclo-L-(Pro-Tyr-Pro-Val), have been produced and identified as μ-opioid receptor (MOR) agonists, with an EC50 value of 2.5 nM. Non-epimerizable direct aminolysis offers a practical solution for constrained peptide cyclization, and the discovery of MOR agonist activity highlights the importance of overcoming synthetic challenges for therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Chen
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York, University at Albany, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
| | - Yuchen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Fluorine and Nitrogen Chemistry and Advanced Materials, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuming Wen
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York, University at Albany, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
| | - Xinhao Fan
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York, University at Albany, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
| | - Nicholas Sciolino
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York, University at Albany, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
| | - Yanyun Lin
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York, University at Albany, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
| | - Leonard Breindel
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York, University at Albany, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
| | - Yuanwei Dai
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York, University at Albany, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
| | - Alexander Shekhtman
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York, University at Albany, Albany, NY, 12222, USA.
| | - Xiao-Song Xue
- Key Laboratory of Fluorine and Nitrogen Chemistry and Advanced Materials, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 345 Lingling Road, 200032, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York, University at Albany, Albany, NY, 12222, USA.
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2
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Wu Y, Song X, Ji Y, Chen G, Zhao L. A synthetic peptide exerts nontolerance-forming antihyperalgesic and antidepressant effects in mice. Neurotherapeutics 2024; 21:e00377. [PMID: 38777742 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurot.2024.e00377] [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: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a prevalent and persistent ailment that affects individuals worldwide. Conventional medications employed in the treatment of chronic pain typically demonstrate limited analgesic effectiveness and frequently give rise to debilitating side effects, such as tolerance and addiction, thereby diminishing patient compliance with medication. Consequently, there is an urgent need for the development of efficacious novel analgesics and innovative methodologies to address chronic pain. Recently, a growing body of evidence has suggested that multireceptor ligands targeting opioid receptors (ORs) are favorable for improving analgesic efficacy, decreasing the risk of adverse effects, and occasionally yielding additional advantages. In this study, the intrathecal injection of a recently developed peptide (VYWEMEDKN) at nanomolar concentrations decreased pain sensitivity in naïve mice and effectively reduced pain-related behaviors in nociceptive pain model mice with minimal opioid-related side effects. Importantly, the compound exerted significant rapid-acting antidepressant effects in both the forced swim test and tail suspension test. It is possible that the rapid antihyperalgesic and antidepressant effects of the peptide are mediated through the OR pathway. Overall, this peptide could both effectively provide pain relief and alleviate depression with fewer side effects, suggesting that it is a potential agent for chronic pain and depression comorbidities from the perspective of pharmaceutical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjiang Wu
- Center for Basic Medical Research, Medical School of Nantong University, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaofei Song
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and the Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - YanZhe Ji
- Center for Basic Medical Research, Medical School of Nantong University, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Center for Basic Medical Research, Medical School of Nantong University, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China; Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and the Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China; Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Long Zhao
- Center for Basic Medical Research, Medical School of Nantong University, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China.
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3
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Salveson PJ, Moyer AP, Said MY, Gӧkçe G, Li X, Kang A, Nguyen H, Bera AK, Levine PM, Bhardwaj G, Baker D. Expansive discovery of chemically diverse structured macrocyclic oligoamides. Science 2024; 384:420-428. [PMID: 38662830 DOI: 10.1126/science.adk1687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Small macrocycles with four or fewer amino acids are among the most potent natural products known, but there is currently no way to systematically generate such compounds. We describe a computational method for identifying ordered macrocycles composed of alpha, beta, gamma, and 17 other amino acid backbone chemistries, which we used to predict 14.9 million closed cycles composed of >42,000 monomer combinations. We chemically synthesized 18 macrocycles predicted to adopt single low-energy states and determined their x-ray or nuclear magnetic resonance structures; 15 of these were very close to the design models. We illustrate the therapeutic potential of these macrocycle designs by developing selective inhibitors of three protein targets of current interest. By opening up a vast space of readily synthesizable drug-like macrocycles, our results should considerably enhance structure-based drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J Salveson
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Adam P Moyer
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Meerit Y Said
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Gizem Gӧkçe
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Xinting Li
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Alex Kang
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Hannah Nguyen
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Asim K Bera
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Paul M Levine
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Gaurav Bhardwaj
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - David Baker
- Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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4
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Hohenwarter L, Böttger R, Li SD. Modification and Delivery of Enkephalins for Pain Modulation. Int J Pharm 2023; 646:123425. [PMID: 37739096 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pain negatively affects patient's quality of life and poses a significant economic burden. First line pharmaceutical treatment of chronic pain, including NSAIDs or antidepressants, is often inefficient to reduce pain, or produces intolerable adverse effects. In such cases, opioids are frequently prescribed for their potent analgesia, but chronic opioid use is also frequently associated with debilitating side effects that may offset analgesic benefits. Nonetheless, opioids continue to be widely utilized due to the lack of effective alternative analgesics. Since their discovery in 1975, a class of endogenous opioids called enkephalins (ENKs) have been investigated for their ability to relieve pain with significantly reduced adverse effects compared to conventional opioids. Their low metabolic stability and inability to cross biological membranes, however, make ENKs ineffective analgesics. Over past decades, much effort has been invested to overcome these limitations and develop ENK-based pain therapies. This review summarizes and describes chemical modifications and ENK delivery technologies utilizing ENK conjugates, nanoparticles and ENK gene delivery approaches and discusses valid lessons, challenges, and future directions of this evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Hohenwarter
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Roland Böttger
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Shyh-Dar Li
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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5
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Scherrer KH, Eans SO, Medina JM, Senadheera SN, Khaliq T, Murray TF, McLaughlin JP, Aldrich JV. Tryptophan Substitution in CJ-15,208 ( cyclo[Phe-D-Pro-Phe-Trp]) Introduces δ-Opioid Receptor Antagonism, Preventing Antinociceptive Tolerance and Stress-Induced Reinstatement of Extinguished Cocaine-Conditioned Place Preference. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1218. [PMID: 37765026 PMCID: PMC10535824 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091218] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The macrocyclic tetrapeptide CJ-15,208 (cyclo[Phe-D-Pro-Phe-Trp]) and its D-Trp isomer exhibit kappa opioid receptor (KOR) antagonism which prevents stress-induced reinstatement of extinguished cocaine-conditioned place preference. Here, we evaluated the effects of substitution of Trp and D-Trp on the peptides' opioid activity, antinociceptive tolerance, and the ability to prevent relapse to extinguished drug-CPP. Six analogs were synthesized using a combination of solid-phase peptide synthesis and cyclization in solution. The analogs were evaluated in vitro for opioid receptor affinity in radioligand competition binding assays, efficacy in the [35S]GTPγS assay, metabolic stability in mouse liver microsomes, and for opioid activity and selectivity in vivo in the mouse 55 °C warm-water tail-withdrawal assay. Potential liabilities of locomotor impairment, respiratory depression, acute tolerance, and conditioned place preference (CPP) were also assessed in vivo, and the ameliorating effect of analogs on the reinstatement of extinguished cocaine-place preference was assessed. Substitutions of other D-amino acids for D-Trp did not affect (or in one case increased) KOR affinity, while two of the three substitutions of an L-amino acid for Trp decreased KOR affinity. In contrast, all but one substitution increased mu opioid receptor (MOR) affinity in vitro. The metabolic stabilities of the analogs were similar to those of their respective parent peptides, with analogs containing a D-amino acid being much more rapidly metabolized than those containing an L-amino acid in this position. In vivo, CJ-15,208 analogs demonstrated antinociception, although potencies varied over an 80-fold range and the mediating opioid receptors differed by substitution. KOR antagonism was lost for all but the D-benzothienylalanine analog, and the 2'-naphthylalanine analog instead demonstrated significant delta opioid receptor (DOR) antagonism. Introduction of DOR antagonism coincided with reduced acute opioid antinociceptive tolerance and prevented stress-induced reinstatement of extinguished cocaine-CPP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen H. Scherrer
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, The University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (K.H.S.); (S.O.E.); (J.M.M.)
| | - Shainnel O. Eans
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, The University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (K.H.S.); (S.O.E.); (J.M.M.)
| | - Jessica M. Medina
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, The University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (K.H.S.); (S.O.E.); (J.M.M.)
| | - Sanjeewa N. Senadheera
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA; (S.N.S.); (T.K.)
| | - Tanvir Khaliq
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA; (S.N.S.); (T.K.)
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, The University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Thomas F. Murray
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE 68178, USA;
| | - Jay P. McLaughlin
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, The University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (K.H.S.); (S.O.E.); (J.M.M.)
| | - Jane V. Aldrich
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA; (S.N.S.); (T.K.)
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, The University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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6
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Bis-Cyclic Guanidine Heterocyclic Peptidomimetics as Opioid Ligands with Mixed μ-, κ- and δ-Opioid Receptor Interactions: A Potential Approach to Novel Analgesics. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179623. [PMID: 36077029 PMCID: PMC9455983 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The design and development of analgesics with mixed-opioid receptor interactions has been reported to decrease side effects, minimizing respiratory depression and reinforcing properties to generate safer analgesic therapeutics. We synthesized bis-cyclic guanidine heterocyclic peptidomimetics from reduced tripeptides. In vitro screening with radioligand competition binding assays demonstrated variable affinity for the mu-opioid receptor (MOR), delta-opioid receptor (DOR), and kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) across the series, with compound 1968-22 displaying good affinity for all three receptors. Central intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of 1968-22 produced dose-dependent, opioid receptor-mediated antinociception in the mouse 55 °C warm-water tail-withdrawal assay, and 1968-22 also produced significant antinociception up to 80 min after oral administration (10 mg/kg, p.o.). Compound 1968-22 was detected in the brain 5 min after intravenous administration and was shown to be stable in the blood for at least 30 min. Central administration of 1968-22 did not produce significant respiratory depression, locomotor effects or conditioned place preference or aversion. The data suggest these bis-cyclic guanidine heterocyclic peptidomimetics with multifunctional opioid receptor activity may hold potential as new analgesics with fewer liabilities of use.
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7
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Brice-Tutt AC, Eans SO, Yakovlev D, Aldrich JV, McLaughlin JP. An analog of [d-Trp]CJ-15,208 exhibits kappa opioid receptor antagonism following oral administration and prevents stress-induced reinstatement of extinguished morphine conditioned place preference. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 217:173405. [PMID: 35584724 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Opioid use disorder (OUD) relapse rates are discouragingly high, underscoring the need for new treatment options. The macrocyclic tetrapeptide natural product CJ-15,208 and its stereoisomer [d-Trp]CJ-15,208 demonstrate kappa opioid receptor (KOR) antagonist activity upon oral administration which prevents stress-induced reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behavior. In order to further explore the structure-activity relationships and expand the potential therapeutic applications of KOR antagonism for the treatment of OUD, we screened a series of 24 analogs of [d-Trp]CJ-15,208 with the goal of enhancing KOR antagonist activity. From this screening, analog 22 arose as a compound of interest, demonstrating dose-dependent KOR antagonism after central and oral administration lasting at least 2.5 h. In further oral testing, analog 22 lacked respiratory, locomotor, or reinforcing effects, consistent with the absence of opioid agonism. Pretreatment with analog 22 (30 mg/kg, p.o.) prevented stress-induced reinstatement of extinguished morphine conditioned place preference and reduced some signs of naloxone-precipitated withdrawal in mice physically dependent on morphine. Collectively, these data support the therapeutic potential of KOR antagonists to support abstinence in OUD and ameliorate opioid withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariana C Brice-Tutt
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States of America
| | - Shainnel O Eans
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States of America
| | - Dmitry Yakovlev
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States of America
| | - Jane V Aldrich
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States of America
| | - Jay P McLaughlin
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States of America.
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8
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Aldrich JV, McLaughlin JP. Peptide Kappa Opioid Receptor Ligands and Their Potential for Drug Development. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2022; 271:197-220. [PMID: 34463847 DOI: 10.1007/164_2021_519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Ligands for kappa opioid receptors (KOR) have potential uses as non-addictive analgesics and for the treatment of pruritus, mood disorders, and substance abuse. These areas continue to have major unmet medical needs. Significant advances have been made in recent years in the preclinical development of novel opioid peptides, notably ones with structural features that inherently impart stability to proteases. Following a brief discussion of the potential therapeutic applications of KOR agonists and antagonists, this review focuses on two series of novel opioid peptides, all-D-amino acid tetrapeptides as peripherally selective KOR agonists for the treatment of pain and pruritus without centrally mediated side effects, and macrocyclic tetrapeptides based on CJ-15,208 that can exhibit different opioid profiles with potential applications such as analgesics and treatments for substance abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane V Aldrich
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Jay P McLaughlin
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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9
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Zhang YZ, Wang MM, Wang SY, Wang XF, Yang WJ, Zhao YN, Han FT, Zhang Y, Gu N, Wang CL. Novel Cyclic Endomorphin Analogues with Multiple Modifications and Oligoarginine Vector Exhibit Potent Antinociception with Reduced Opioid-like Side Effects. J Med Chem 2021; 64:16801-16819. [PMID: 34781680 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Endomorphins (EMs) are potent pharmaceuticals for the treatment of pain. Herein, we investigated several novel EM analogues with multiple modifications and oligoarginine conjugation. Our results showed that analogues 1-6 behaved as potent μ-opioid agonists and enhanced stability and lipophilicity. Analogues 5 and 6 administered centrally and peripherally induced significant and prolonged antinociceptive effects in acute pain. Both analogues also produced long-acting antiallodynic effects against neuropathic and inflammatory pain. Furthermore, they showed a reduced acute antinociceptive tolerance. Analogue 6 decreased the extent of chronic antinociceptive tolerance, and analogue 5 exhibited no tolerance at the supraspinal level. Particularly, they displayed nontolerance-forming antinociception at the peripheral level. In addition, analogues 5 and 6 exhibited reduced or no opioid-like side effects on gastrointestinal transit, conditioned place preference (CPP), and motor impairment. The present investigation established that multiple modifications and oligoarginine-vector conjugation of EMs would be helpful in developing novel analgesics with fewer side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Zhe Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Dazhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Meng-Meng Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Dazhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Si-Yu Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Dazhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Xiao-Fang Wang
- Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China
| | - Wen-Jiao Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Dazhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Ya-Nan Zhao
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Dazhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Feng-Tong Han
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Dazhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Dazhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Ning Gu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Dazhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Chang-Lin Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Dazhi Street, Harbin 150001, China.,Stake Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
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10
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Herlan CN, Sonnefeld A, Gloge T, Brückel J, Schlee LC, Muhle-Goll C, Nieger M, Bräse S. Macrocyclic Tetramers-Structural Investigation of Peptide-Peptoid Hybrids. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26154548. [PMID: 34361700 PMCID: PMC8348019 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26154548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Outstanding affinity and specificity are the main characteristics of peptides, rendering them interesting compounds for basic and medicinal research. However, their biological applicability is limited due to fast proteolytic degradation. The use of mimetic peptoids overcomes this disadvantage, though they lack stereochemical information at the α-carbon. Hybrids composed of amino acids and peptoid monomers combine the unique properties of both parent classes. Rigidification of the backbone increases the affinity towards various targets. However, only little is known about the spatial structure of such constrained hybrids. The determination of the three-dimensional structure is a key step for the identification of new targets as well as the rational design of bioactive compounds. Herein, we report the synthesis and the structural elucidation of novel tetrameric macrocycles. Measurements were taken in solid and solution states with the help of X-ray scattering and NMR spectroscopy. The investigations made will help to find diverse applications for this new, promising compound class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudine Nicole Herlan
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Fritz-Haber-Weg 6, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany; (C.N.H.); (J.B.); (L.C.S.)
| | - Anna Sonnefeld
- Institute for Biological Interfaces 4, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany; (A.S.); (T.G.); (C.M.-G.)
| | - Thomas Gloge
- Institute for Biological Interfaces 4, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany; (A.S.); (T.G.); (C.M.-G.)
| | - Julian Brückel
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Fritz-Haber-Weg 6, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany; (C.N.H.); (J.B.); (L.C.S.)
| | - Luisa Chiara Schlee
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Fritz-Haber-Weg 6, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany; (C.N.H.); (J.B.); (L.C.S.)
| | - Claudia Muhle-Goll
- Institute for Biological Interfaces 4, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany; (A.S.); (T.G.); (C.M.-G.)
| | - Martin Nieger
- Department of Chemistry, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 55 (A.I. Virtasen aukio 1), FIN-00014 Helsinki, Finland;
| | - Stefan Bräse
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Fritz-Haber-Weg 6, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany; (C.N.H.); (J.B.); (L.C.S.)
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems—Functional Molecular Systems, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
- Correspondence:
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11
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Levine M. Fluorescence-Based Sensing of Pesticides Using Supramolecular Chemistry. Front Chem 2021; 9:616815. [PMID: 33937184 PMCID: PMC8085505 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.616815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The detection of pesticides in real-world environments is a high priority for a broad range of applications, including in areas of public health, environmental remediation, and agricultural sustainability. While many methods for pesticide detection currently exist, the use of supramolecular fluorescence-based methods has significant practical advantages. Herein, we will review the use of fluorescence-based pesticide detection methods, with a particular focus on supramolecular chemistry-based methods. Illustrative examples that show how such methods have achieved success in real-world environments are also included, as are areas highlighted for future research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mindy Levine
- Ariel University, Department of Chemical Sciences, Ariel, Israel
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12
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Abstract
Pain is complex and is a unique experience for individuals in that no two people will have exactly the same physiological and emotional response to the same noxious stimulus or injury. Pain is composed of two essential processes: a sensory component that allows for discrimination of the intensity and location of a painful stimulus and an emotional component that underlies the affective, motivational, unpleasant, and aversive response to a painful stimulus. Kappa opioid receptor (KOR) activation in the periphery and throughout the neuroaxis modulates both of these components of the pain experience. In this chapter we focus on recent findings that KORs contribute to the emotional, aversive nature of chronic pain, including how expression in the limbic circuitry contributes to anhedonic states and components of opioid misuse disorder. While the primary focus is on preclinical pain models, we also highlight clinical or human research where there is strong evidence for KOR involvement in negative affective states associated with chronic pain and opioid misuse.
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13
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Paton KF, Atigari DV, Kaska S, Prisinzano T, Kivell BM. Strategies for Developing κ Opioid Receptor Agonists for the Treatment of Pain with Fewer Side Effects. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2020; 375:332-348. [PMID: 32913006 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.120.000134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
There is significant need to find effective, nonaddictive pain medications. κ Opioid receptor (KOPr) agonists have been studied for decades but have recently received increased attention because of their analgesic effects and lack of abuse potential. However, a range of side effects have limited the clinical development of these drugs. There are several strategies currently used to develop safer and more effective KOPr agonists. These strategies include identifying G-protein-biased agonists, developing peripherally restricted KOPr agonists without centrally mediated side effects, and developing mixed opioid agonists, which target multiple receptors at specific ratios to balance side-effect profiles and reduce tolerance. Here, we review the latest developments in research related to KOPr agonists for the treatment of pain. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This review discusses strategies for developing safer κ opioid receptor (KOPr) agonists with therapeutic potential for the treatment of pain. Although one strategy is to modify selective KOPr agonists to create peripherally restricted or G-protein-biased structures, another approach is to combine KOPr agonists with μ, δ, or nociceptin opioid receptor activation to obtain mixed opioid receptor agonists, therefore negating the adverse effects and retaining the therapeutic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly F Paton
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand (K.P., D.V.A., B.M.K.) and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky (S.K., T.P.)
| | - Diana V Atigari
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand (K.P., D.V.A., B.M.K.) and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky (S.K., T.P.)
| | - Sophia Kaska
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand (K.P., D.V.A., B.M.K.) and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky (S.K., T.P.)
| | - Thomas Prisinzano
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand (K.P., D.V.A., B.M.K.) and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky (S.K., T.P.)
| | - Bronwyn M Kivell
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand (K.P., D.V.A., B.M.K.) and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky (S.K., T.P.)
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Brice-Tutt AC, Senadheera SN, Ganno ML, Eans SO, Khaliq T, Murray TF, McLaughlin JP, Aldrich JV. Phenylalanine Stereoisomers of CJ-15,208 and [d-Trp]CJ-15,208 Exhibit Distinctly Different Opioid Activity Profiles. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25173999. [PMID: 32887303 PMCID: PMC7504817 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25173999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The macrocyclic tetrapeptide cyclo[Phe-d-Pro-Phe-Trp] (CJ-15,208) and its stereoisomer cyclo[Phe-d-Pro-Phe-d-Trp] exhibit different opioid activity profiles in vivo. The present study evaluated the influence of the Phe residues’ stereochemistry on the peptides’ opioid activity. Five stereoisomers were synthesized by a combination of solid-phase peptide synthesis and cyclization in solution. The analogs were evaluated in vitro for opioid receptor affinity in radioligand competition binding assays, and for opioid activity and selectivity in vivo in the mouse 55 °C warm-water tail-withdrawal assay. Potential liabilities of locomotor impairment, respiratory depression, acute tolerance development, and place conditioning were also assessed in vivo. All of the stereoisomers exhibited antinociception following either intracerebroventricular or oral administration differentially mediated by multiple opioid receptors, with kappa opioid receptor (KOR) activity contributing for all of the peptides. However, unlike the parent peptides, KOR antagonism was exhibited by only one stereoisomer, while another isomer produced DOR antagonism. The stereoisomers of CJ-15,208 lacked significant respiratory effects, while the [d-Trp]CJ-15,208 stereoisomers did not elicit antinociceptive tolerance. Two isomers, cyclo[d-Phe-d-Pro-d-Phe-Trp] (3) and cyclo[Phe-d-Pro-d-Phe-d-Trp] (5), did not elicit either preference or aversion in a conditioned place preference assay. Collectively, these stereoisomers represent new lead compounds for further investigation in the development of safer opioid analgesics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariana C. Brice-Tutt
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, The University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (A.C.B.-T.); (S.O.E.)
| | | | - Michelle L. Ganno
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, FL 34987, USA;
| | - Shainnel O. Eans
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, The University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (A.C.B.-T.); (S.O.E.)
| | - Tanvir Khaliq
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, The University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
| | - Thomas F. Murray
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA;
| | - Jay P. McLaughlin
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, The University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (A.C.B.-T.); (S.O.E.)
- Correspondence: (J.P.M.); (J.V.A.); Tel.: +1-352-273-7207 (J.P.M.); +1-352-273-8708 (J.V.A.)
| | - Jane V. Aldrich
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, The University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
- Correspondence: (J.P.M.); (J.V.A.); Tel.: +1-352-273-7207 (J.P.M.); +1-352-273-8708 (J.V.A.)
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15
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Brice-Tutt AC, Wilson LL, Eans SO, Stacy HM, Simons CA, Simpson GG, Coleman JS, Ferracane MJ, Aldrich JV, McLaughlin JP. Multifunctional opioid receptor agonism and antagonism by a novel macrocyclic tetrapeptide prevents reinstatement of morphine-seeking behaviour. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:4209-4222. [PMID: 32562259 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The macrocyclic tetrapeptide natural product CJ-15,208 (cyclo[Phe-d-Pro-Phe-Trp]) is a multifunctional μ-opioid receptor and κ-opioid receptor agonist and κ-opioid receptor antagonist that produces antinociception and prevents stress-induced reinstatement of extinguished cocaine-conditioned place preference (CPP). We hypothesized that an analogue of CJ-15,208, cyclo[Pro-Sar-Phe-d-Phe], would demonstrate multifunctional μ-opioid receptor and κ-opioid receptor ligand activity, producing potent antinociception with fewer liabilities than selective μ-opioid receptor agonists, while preventing both drug- and stress-induced reinstatement of morphine-induced CPP. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The opioid receptor agonist and antagonist activity of cyclo[Pro-Sar-Phe-d-Phe] was characterized after i.c.v. and i.p. administration to C57BL/6J or transgenic opioid receptor "knockout" mice using the 55°C warm-water tail-withdrawal assay. Liabilities of locomotor coordination, respiration and spontaneous ambulation, and direct rewarding or aversive properties were assessed. Finally, the ability of cyclo[Pro-Sar-Phe-d-Phe] to block morphine- and stress-induced reinstatement of extinguished CPP was determined. KEY RESULTS cyclo[Pro-Sar-Phe-d-Phe] demonstrated dose-dependent, short-lasting antinociception, with an ED50 (and 95% confidence interval) of 0.15 (0.05-0.21) nmol i.c.v. and 1.91 (0.40-3.54) mg·kg-1 i.p., mediated by μ- and κ-opioid receptors. The macrocyclic tetrapeptide also demonstrated potent dose-dependent κ-opioid receptor antagonist-like activity at 2.5, but not at 4.5, h after administration. cyclo[Pro-Sar-Phe-d-Phe] displayed reduced liabiities compared with morphine, attributed to its additional activity at κ-receptors. Pretreatment with cyclo[Pro-Sar-Phe-d-Phe] prevented stress- and drug-induced reinstatement of extinguished morphine-place preference responses in a time-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These data suggest that cyclo[Pro-Sar-Phe-d-Phe] is a promising lead compound for both the treatment of pain with reduced sideeffects and preventing both drug- and stress-induced relapse in morphine-abstinent subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariana C Brice-Tutt
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Lisa L Wilson
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Shainnel O Eans
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Heather M Stacy
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Chloe A Simons
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Grant G Simpson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jeremy S Coleman
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Michael J Ferracane
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jane V Aldrich
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jay P McLaughlin
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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