1
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Carullo G, Rossi S, Giudice V, Pezzotta A, Chianese U, Scala P, Carbone S, Fontana A, Panzeca G, Pasquini S, Contri C, Gemma S, Ramunno A, Saponara S, Galvani F, Lodola A, Mor M, Benedetti R, Selleri C, Varani K, Butini S, Altucci L, Vincenzi F, Pistocchi A, Campiani G. Development of Epigenetic Modifiers with Therapeutic Potential in FMS-Related Tyrosine Kinase 3/Internal Tandem Duplication (FLT3/ITD) Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Other Blood Malignancies. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:2125-2142. [PMID: 39022363 PMCID: PMC11249625 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.4c00208] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Blood cancers encompass a group of diseases affecting the blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system, representing the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. Leukemias are characterized by the dysregulated proliferation of myeloid and lymphoid cells with different rates of progression (acute or chronic). Among the chronic forms, hairy cell leukemia (HCL) is a rare disease, and no drugs have been approved to date. However, acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is one of the most aggressive malignancies, with a low survival rate, especially in cases with FLT3-ITD mutations. Epigenetic modifications have emerged as promising strategies for the treatment of blood cancers. Epigenetic modulators, such as histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors, are increasingly used for targeted cancer therapy. New hydroxamic acid derivatives, preferentially inhibiting HDAC6 (5a-q), were developed and their efficacy was investigated in different blood cancers, including multiple myeloma (MM), HCL, and AML, pointing out their pro-apoptotic effect as the mechanism of cell death. Among the inhibitors described, 5c, 5g, and 5h were able to rescue the hematopoietic phenotype in vivo using the FLT3-ITD zebrafish model of AML. 5c (leuxinostat) proved its efficacy in cells from FLT3-ITD AML patients, promoting marked acetylation of α-tubulin compared to histone H3, thereby confirming HDAC6 as a preferential target for this new class of hydroxamic acid derivatives at the tested doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Carullo
- Department
of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Sara Rossi
- Department
of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Valentina Giudice
- Department
of Medicine, Surgery, Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, Baronissi, SA 84081, Italy
| | - Alex Pezzotta
- Department
of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, LITA, Fratelli Cervi 93, Segrate, MI 20054, Italy
| | - Ugo Chianese
- Department
of Precision Medicine, University of Campania
Luigi Vanvitelli, Via de Crecchio 7, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Pasqualina Scala
- Department
of Medicine, Surgery, Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, Baronissi, SA 84081, Italy
| | - Sabrina Carbone
- Department
of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, LITA, Fratelli Cervi 93, Segrate, MI 20054, Italy
| | - Anna Fontana
- Department
of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Giovanna Panzeca
- Department
of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Silvia Pasquini
- Department
of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Borsari 46, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Chiara Contri
- Department
of Translational Medicine, University of
Ferrara, Via Borsari 46, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Sandra Gemma
- Department
of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Anna Ramunno
- Department
of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Giovanni Paolo II, 132, Fisciano, SA 84084, Italy
| | - Simona Saponara
- Department
of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Francesca Galvani
- Department
of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, Parma 43124, Italy
| | - Alessio Lodola
- Department
of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, Parma 43124, Italy
| | - Marco Mor
- Department
of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, Parma 43124, Italy
| | - Rosaria Benedetti
- Department
of Precision Medicine, University of Campania
Luigi Vanvitelli, Via de Crecchio 7, Naples 80138, Italy
- Program
of Medical Epigenetics, Vanvitelli Hospital, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Carmine Selleri
- Department
of Medicine, Surgery, Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Via S. Allende, Baronissi, SA 84081, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department
of Translational Medicine, University of
Ferrara, Via Borsari 46, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Stefania Butini
- Department
of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Lucia Altucci
- Department
of Precision Medicine, University of Campania
Luigi Vanvitelli, Via de Crecchio 7, Naples 80138, Italy
- Program
of Medical Epigenetics, Vanvitelli Hospital, Naples 80138, Italy
- Biogem
Institute of Molecular and Genetic Biology, Ariano Irpino 83031, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department
of Translational Medicine, University of
Ferrara, Via Borsari 46, Ferrara 44121, Italy
| | - Anna Pistocchi
- Department
of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, LITA, Fratelli Cervi 93, Segrate, MI 20054, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Campiani
- Department
of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, Siena 53100, Italy
- Bioinformatics
Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 81746-7346, Iran
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2
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Carullo G, Orsini N, Piano I, Pozzetti L, Papa A, Fontana A, Napoli D, Corsi F, Marco BD, Galante A, Marotta L, Panzeca G, O'Brien J, Sanchez AG, Doherty H, Mahon N, Clarke L, Contri C, Pasquini S, Gorelli B, Saponara S, Valoti M, Vincenzi F, Varani K, Ramunno A, Brogi S, Butini S, Gemma S, Kennedy BN, Gargini C, Strettoi E, Campiani G. Targeting Relevant HDACs to Support the Survival of Cone Photoreceptors in Inherited Retinal Diseases: Identification of a Potent Pharmacological Tool with In Vitro and In Vivo Efficacy. J Med Chem 2024. [PMID: 38961727 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases, which include retinitis pigmentosa, are a family of genetic disorders characterized by gradual rod-cone degeneration and vision loss, without effective pharmacological treatments. Experimental approaches aim to delay disease progression, supporting cones' survival, crucial for human vision. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) mediate the activation of epigenetic and nonepigenetic pathways that modulate cone degeneration in RP mouse models. We developed new HDAC inhibitors (5a-p), typified by a tetrahydro-γ-carboline scaffold, characterized by high HDAC6 inhibition potency with balanced physicochemical properties for in vivo studies. Compound 5d (repistat, IC50 HDAC6 = 6.32 nM) increased the levels of acetylated α-tubulin compared to histone H3 in ARPE-19 and 661W cells. 5d promoted vision rescue in the atp6v0e1-/- zebrafish model of photoreceptor dysfunction. A single intravitreal injection of 5d in the rd10 mouse model of RP supported morphological and functional preservation of cone cells and maintenance of the retinal pigment epithelium array.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Carullo
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Noemi Orsini
- Neuroscience Institute, Italian National Research Council (CNR) Area della Ricerca, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Regional Doctorate School in Neuroscience of Universities of Florence, Pisa, Siena, Florence, CNR Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Ilaria Piano
- Department of Pharmacy, Via Bonanno 6, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Pozzetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Papa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Anna Fontana
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Debora Napoli
- Neuroscience Institute, Italian National Research Council (CNR) Area della Ricerca, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Regional Doctorate School in Neuroscience of Universities of Florence, Pisa, Siena, Florence, CNR Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Beatrice Di Marco
- Neuroscience Institute, Italian National Research Council (CNR) Area della Ricerca, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Regional Doctorate School in Neuroscience of Universities of Florence, Pisa, Siena, Florence, CNR Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Ludovica Marotta
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giovanna Panzeca
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Justine O'Brien
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Alicia Gomez Sanchez
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Harry Doherty
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Niamh Mahon
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Leni Clarke
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Chiara Contri
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Pasquini
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Beatrice Gorelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Simona Saponara
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Massimo Valoti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Anna Ramunno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via G. Paolo II 132, 84100 Fisciano (SA), Italy
| | - Simone Brogi
- Department of Pharmacy, Via Bonanno 6, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefania Butini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Sandra Gemma
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Breandán N Kennedy
- UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and UCD Conway Institute, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Enrica Strettoi
- Neuroscience Institute, Italian National Research Council (CNR) Area della Ricerca, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Campiani
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Bioinformatics Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 81746-7346, Iran
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3
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Picard E, Youale J, Hyman MJ, Xie E, Achiedo S, Kaufmann GT, Moir J, Daruich A, Crisanti P, Torriglia A, Polak M, Behar-Cohen F, Skondra D, Berdugo M. Glyburide confers neuroprotection against age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Transl Res 2024; 272:81-94. [PMID: 38815899 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2024.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Glyburide, a sulfonylurea drug used to treat type 2 diabetes, boasts neuroprotective effects by targeting the sulfonylurea receptor 1 (SUR1) and associated ion channels in various cell types, including those in the central nervous system and the retina. Previously, we demonstrated that glyburide therapy improved retinal function and structure in a rat model of diabetic retinopathy. In the present study, we explore the application of glyburide in non-neovascular ("dry") age-related macular degeneration (AMD), another progressive disease characterized by oxidative stress-induced damage and neuroinflammation that trigger cell death in the retina. We show that glyburide administration to a human cone cell line confers protection against oxidative stress, inflammasome activation, and apoptosis. To corroborate our in vitro results, we also conducted a case-control study, controlling for AMD risk factors and other diabetes medications. It showed that glyburide use in patients reduces the odds of new-onset dry AMD. A positive dose-response relationship is observed from this analysis, in which higher cumulative doses of glyburide further reduce the odds of new-onset dry AMD. In the quest for novel therapies for AMD, glyburide emerges as a promising repurposable drug given its known safety profile. The results from this study provide insights into the multifaceted actions of glyburide and its potential as a neuroprotective agent for retinal diseases; however, further preclinical and clinical studies are needed to validate its therapeutic potential in the context of degenerative retinal disorders such as AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Picard
- Inserm UMRS1138, Team 1: Physiopathology of ocular diseases-Therapeutic innovations, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université UMR_S 1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Paris, France
| | - Jenny Youale
- Inserm UMRS1138, Team 1: Physiopathology of ocular diseases-Therapeutic innovations, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université UMR_S 1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Paris, France
| | - Max J Hyman
- enter for Health and the Social Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Edward Xie
- Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY
| | - Seiki Achiedo
- Inserm UMRS1138, Team 1: Physiopathology of ocular diseases-Therapeutic innovations, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université UMR_S 1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Paris, France
| | | | - John Moir
- Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Alejandra Daruich
- Inserm UMRS1138, Team 1: Physiopathology of ocular diseases-Therapeutic innovations, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université UMR_S 1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Paris, France; AP-HP, Service d'Ophtalmologie, Hôpital universitaire Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Patricia Crisanti
- Inserm UMRS1138, Team 1: Physiopathology of ocular diseases-Therapeutic innovations, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université UMR_S 1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Paris, France
| | - Alicia Torriglia
- Inserm UMRS1138, Team 1: Physiopathology of ocular diseases-Therapeutic innovations, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université UMR_S 1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Paris, France
| | - Michel Polak
- AP-HP, Service d'endocrinologie, diabétologie et gynécologie pédiatriques, Hôpital universitaire Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France; Inserm U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France; Inserm UMR 1163, Institut Imagine, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Francine Behar-Cohen
- Inserm UMRS1138, Team 1: Physiopathology of ocular diseases-Therapeutic innovations, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université UMR_S 1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Paris, France; AP-HP, OphtalmoPôle, Hôpital Cochin, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Paris, France.
| | - Dimitra Skondra
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Marianne Berdugo
- Inserm UMRS1138, Team 1: Physiopathology of ocular diseases-Therapeutic innovations, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université UMR_S 1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Paris, France
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4
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Rossi S, Tudino V, Carullo G, Butini S, Campiani G, Gemma S. Metalloenzyme Inhibitors against Zoonotic Infections: Focus on Leishmania and Schistosoma. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:1520-1535. [PMID: 38669567 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The term "zoonosis" denotes diseases transmissible among vertebrate animals and humans. These diseases constitute a significant public health challenge, comprising 61% of human pathogens and causing an estimated 2.7 million deaths annually. Zoonoses not only affect human health but also impact animal welfare and economic stability, particularly in low- and middle-income nations. Leishmaniasis and schistosomiasis are two important neglected tropical diseases with a high prevalence in tropical and subtropical areas, imposing significant burdens on affected regions. Schistosomiasis, particularly rampant in sub-Saharan Africa, lacks alternative treatments to praziquantel, prompting concerns regarding parasite resistance. Similarly, leishmaniasis poses challenges with unsatisfactory treatments, urging the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Effective prevention demands a One Health approach, integrating diverse disciplines to enhance diagnostics and develop safer drugs. Metalloenzymes, involved in parasite biology and critical in different biological pathways, emerged in the last few years as useful drug targets for the treatment of human diseases. Herein we have reviewed recent reports on the discovery of inhibitors of metalloenzymes associated with zoonotic diseases like histone deacetylases (HDACs), carbonic anhydrase (CA), arginase, and heme-dependent enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rossi
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Valeria Tudino
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Gabriele Carullo
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Stefania Butini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Campiani
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Bioinformatics Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan 81746-7346, Iran
| | - Sandra Gemma
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
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5
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Papa A, Cursaro I, Pozzetti L, Contri C, Cappello M, Pasquini S, Carullo G, Ramunno A, Gemma S, Varani K, Butini S, Campiani G, Vincenzi F. Pioneering first-in-class FAAH-HDAC inhibitors as potential multitarget neuroprotective agents. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2023; 356:e2300410. [PMID: 37750286 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202300410] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Aiming to simultaneously modulate the endocannabinoid system (ECS) functions and the epigenetic machinery, we selected the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes as desired targets to develop potential neuroprotective multitarget-directed ligands (MTDLs), expecting to achieve an additive or synergistic therapeutic effect in oxidative stress-related conditions. We herein report the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of the first-in-class FAAH-HDAC multitarget inhibitors. A pharmacophore merging strategy was applied, yielding 1-phenylpyrrole-based compounds 4a-j. The best-performing compounds (4c, 4f, and 4h) were tested for their neuroprotective properties in oxidative stress models, employing 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells and SHSY5 human neuronal cells. In our preliminary studies, compound 4h stood out, showing a balanced nanomolar inhibitory activity against the selected targets and outperforming the standard antioxidant N-acetylcysteine in vitro. Together with 4f, 4h was also able to protect 1321N1 cells from tert-butyl hydroperoxide or glutamate insult. Our study may provide the basis for the development of novel MTDLs targeting the ECS and epigenetic enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Papa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Cursaro
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Luca Pozzetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Contri
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Cappello
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Pasquini
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gabriele Carullo
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Anna Ramunno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Sandra Gemma
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefania Butini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Campiani
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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6
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Xia CH, Liu H, Li M, Zhang H, Xing X, Gong X. Identification and Characterization of Retinitis Pigmentosa in a Novel Mouse Model Caused by PDE6B-T592I. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3173. [PMID: 38137394 PMCID: PMC10740990 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123173] [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: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The cGMP-phosphodiesterase 6 beta subunit (PDE6B) is an essential component in the phototransduction pathway for light responses in photoreceptor cells. PDE6B gene mutations cause the death of rod photoreceptors, named as hereditary retinitis pigmentosa (RP) in humans and retinal degeneration (RD) in rodents. Here, we report a new RD model, identified from a phenotypic screen of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU)-induced mutant mice, which displays retinal degeneration caused by a point mutation in the Pde6b gene that results in PDE6B-T592I mutant protein. The homozygous mutant mice show an extensive loss of rod photoreceptors at the age of 3 weeks; unexpectedly, the loss of rod photoreceptors can be partly rescued by dark rearing. Thus, this RD mutant model displays a light-dependent loss of rod photoreceptors. Both western blot and immunostaining results show very low level of mutant PDE6B-T592I protein in the retina. Structure modeling suggests that the T592I mutation probably affects the function and stability of PDE6B protein by changing intramolecular interactions. We further demonstrate that the expression of wild-type PDE6B delivered by subretinally injected adeno-associated virus (rAAV) prevents photoreceptor cell death in this RD model in vivo. The PDE6B-T592I mutant is, therefore, a valuable RD model for evaluating rAAV-mediated treatment and for investigating the molecular mechanism of light-dependent rod photoreceptor cell death that is related to impaired PDE6B function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Xiaohua Gong
- Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science Program, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; (C.-H.X.); (H.L.); (M.L.); (H.Z.); (X.X.)
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7
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Carullo G, Bottoni L, Pasquini S, Papa A, Contri C, Brogi S, Calderone V, Orlandini M, Gemma S, Varani K, Butini S, Galvagni F, Vincenzi F, Campiani G. Synthesis of Unsymmetrical Squaramides as Allosteric GSK-3β Inhibitors Promoting β-Catenin-Mediated Transcription of TCF/LEF in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells. ChemMedChem 2022; 17:e202200456. [PMID: 36194001 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202200456] [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: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β) is a ubiquitous enzyme that is a validated target for the development of potential therapeutics useful in several diseases including retinal degeneration. Aiming at developing an innovative class of allosteric inhibitors of GSK-3β potentially useful for retinal degeneration, we explored the class of squaramides. The developed compounds (6 a-l) were obtained through a nontoxic one-pot synthetic protocol, which employs low-cost goods and avoids any purification step. Ethanol was used as the reaction solvent, simultaneously allowing the pure reaction products' recovery (by precipitation). Out of this set of squaramides, 6 j stood out, from computational and enzymatic converging data, as an ATP non-competitive inhibitor of GSK-3β of micromolar potency. When engaged in cellular studies using retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19) transfected with a luciferase reporter gene under the control of T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor (TCF/LEF) binding sites, 6 j was able to dose-dependently induce β-catenin nuclear accumulation, as shown by the increased luciferase activity at a concentration of 2.5 μM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Carullo
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Laura Bottoni
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Pasquini
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Papa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Contri
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Simone Brogi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Calderone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maurizio Orlandini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Sandra Gemma
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Katia Varani
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefania Butini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Federico Galvagni
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Campiani
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
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8
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Fontana A, Cursaro I, Carullo G, Gemma S, Butini S, Campiani G. A Therapeutic Perspective of HDAC8 in Different Diseases: An Overview of Selective Inhibitors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231710014. [PMID: 36077415 PMCID: PMC9456347 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231710014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are epigenetic enzymes which participate in transcriptional repression and chromatin condensation mechanisms by removing the acetyl moiety from acetylated ε-amino group of histone lysines and other non-histone proteins. In recent years, HDAC8, a class I HDAC, has emerged as a promising target for different disorders, including X-linked intellectual disability, fibrotic diseases, cancer, and various neuropathological conditions. Selective HDAC8 targeting is required to limit side effects deriving from the treatment with pan-HDAC inhibitors (HDACis); thus, many endeavours have focused on the development of selective HDAC8is. In addition, polypharmacological approaches have been explored to achieve a synergistic action on multi-factorial diseases or to enhance the drug efficacy. In this frame, proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) might be regarded as a dual-targeting approach for attaining HDAC8 proteasomal degradation. This review highlights the most relevant and recent advances relative to HDAC8 validation in various diseases, providing a snapshot of the current selective HDAC8is, with a focus on polyfunctional modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Fontana
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Cursaro
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Gabriele Carullo
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Sandra Gemma
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Stefania Butini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-057-723-4161
| | - Giuseppe Campiani
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Azetidin-2-one-based small molecules as dual hHDAC6/HDAC8 inhibitors: Investigation of their mechanism of action and impact of dual inhibition profile on cell viability. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 238:114409. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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10
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Nutraceutical Supplementation Ameliorates Visual Function, Retinal Degeneration, and Redox Status in rd10 Mice. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10071033. [PMID: 34206804 PMCID: PMC8300708 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10071033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited retinal dystrophies characterized by progressive degeneration of photoreceptor cells. Ocular redox status is altered in RP suggesting oxidative stress could contribute to their progression. In this study, we investigated the effect of a mixture of nutraceuticals with antioxidant properties (NUT) on retinal degeneration in rd10 mice, a model of RP. NUT was orally administered to rd10 mice from postnatal day (PD) 9 to PD18. At PD18 retinal function and morphology were examined by electroretinography (ERG) and histology including TUNEL assay, immunolabeling of microglia, Müller cells, and poly ADP ribose polymers. Retinal redox status was determined by measuring the activity of antioxidant enzymes and some oxidative stress markers. Gene expression of the cytokines IL-6, TNFα, and IL-1β was assessed by real-time PCR. NUT treatment delayed the loss of photoreceptors in rd10 mice partially preserving their electrical responses to light stimuli. Moreover, it ameliorated redox status and reduced inflammation including microglia activation, upregulation of cytokines, reactive gliosis, and PARP overactivation. NUT ameliorated retinal functionality and morphology at early stages of RP in rd10 mice. This formulation could be useful as a neuroprotective approach for patients with RP in the future.
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11
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Mazzotta S, Governa P, Borgonetti V, Marcolongo P, Nanni C, Gamberucci A, Manetti F, Pessina F, Carullo G, Brizzi A, Aiello F. Pinocembrin and its linolenoyl ester derivative induce wound healing activity in HaCaT cell line potentially involving a GPR120/FFA4 mediated pathway. Bioorg Chem 2021; 108:104657. [PMID: 33556697 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2021.104657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Wound healing represents an urgent need from the clinical point of view. Several diseases result in wound conditions which are difficult to treat, such as in the case of diabetic foot ulcer. Starting from there, the medicinal research has focused on various targets over the years, including GPCRs as new wound healing drug targets. In line with this, GPR120, known to be an attractive target in type 2 diabetes drug discovery, was studied to finalize the development of new wound healing agents. Pinocembrin (HW0) was evaluated as a suitable compound for interacting with GPR120, and was hybridized with fatty acids, which are known endogenous GPR120 ligands, to enhance the wound healing potential and GPR120 interactions. HW0 and its 7-linolenoyl derivative (HW3) were found to be innovative wound healing agents. Immunofluorescence and functional assays suggested that their activity was mediated by GPR120, and docking simulations showed that the compounds could share the same pocket occupied by the known GPR120 agonist, TUG-891.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Mazzotta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Via Luigi Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Paolo Governa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy - DoE 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Vittoria Borgonetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Pharmacology and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Firenze, Italy
| | - Paola Marcolongo
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Claudio Nanni
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gamberucci
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy - DoE 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Federica Pessina
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Gabriele Carullo
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy - DoE 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Antonella Brizzi
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy - DoE 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Aiello
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences - DoE 2018-2022, University of Calabria, Ed. Polifunzionale, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
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12
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Wang J, Xiao H, Barwick S, Liu Y, Smith SB. Optimal timing for activation of sigma 1 receptor in the Pde6b rd10/J (rd10) mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Exp Eye Res 2021; 202:108397. [PMID: 33310057 PMCID: PMC7808329 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Sigma 1 Receptor (Sig1R), a pluripotent modulator of cell survival, is a promising target for treatment of retinal degenerative diseases. Previously, we reported that administration of the high-affinity, high-specificity Sig1R ligand (+)-pentazocine, ((+)-PTZ) beginning at post-natal day 14 (P14) and continuing every other day improves visual acuity and delays loss of photoreceptor cells (PRCs) in the Pde6βrd10/J (rd10) mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Whether administration of (+)-PTZ, at time points concomitant with (P18) or following (P21, P24) onset of PRC death, would prove neuroprotective was investigated in this study. Rd10 mice were administered (+)-PTZ intraperitoneally [0.5 mg/kg], starting at either P14, P18, P21 or P24. Injections continued every other day through P42. Visual acuity was assessed using the optokinetic tracking response (OKR). Rd10 mice treated with (+)-PTZ beginning at P14 retained visual acuity for the duration of the study (~0.33 c/d at P21, ~0.38 c/d at P28, ~0.32 c/d at P35, ~0.32 c/d at P42), whereas mice injected beginning at P18, P21, P24 showed a decline in acuity when tested at P35 and P42. Their acuity was only slightly better than rd10-non-treated mice. Electrophysiologic function was assessed using scotopic and photopic electroretinography (ERG) to assess rod and cone function, respectively. Photopic a- and b-wave amplitudes were significantly greater in rd10 mice treated with (+)-PTZ beginning at P14 compared with non-treated mice and those in the later-onset (+)-PTZ injection groups. Retinal architecture was visualized in living mice using spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) allowing measurement of the total retinal thickness, the inner retina and the outer retina (the area most affected in rd10 mice). The outer retina measured ~35 μm in rd10 mice treated with (+)-PTZ beginning at P14, which was significantly greater than mice in the later-onset (+)-PTZ injection groups (~25 μm) and non-treated rd10 mice (~25 μm). Following the visual function studies performed in the living mice, eyes were harvested at P42 for histologic analysis. While the inner retina was largely intact in all (+)-PTZ-injection groups, there was a marked reduction in the outer retina of non-treated rd10 mice (e.g. in the outer nuclear layer there were ~10 PRCs/100 μm retinal length). The rd10 mice treated with (+)-PTZ beginning at P14 had ~20 PRCs/100 μm retinal length, whereas the mice in groups beginning P18, P21 and P24 had ~16 PRCs/100 μm retinal length. In conclusion, the data indicate that delaying (+)-PTZ injection past the onset of PRC death in rd10 mice - even by a few days - can negatively impact the long-term preservation of retinal function. Our findings suggest that optimizing the administration of Sig1R ligands is critical for retinal neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States; James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Haiyan Xiao
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States; James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Shannon Barwick
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States; James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Yutao Liu
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States; James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Sylvia B Smith
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States; James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States.
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