1
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Rubach P, Sikora M, Jarmolinska A, Perlinska A, Sulkowska J. AlphaKnot 2.0: a web server for the visualization of proteins' knotting and a database of knotted AlphaFold-predicted models. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:W187-W193. [PMID: 38842945 PMCID: PMC11223836 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae443] [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] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The availability of 3D protein models is rapidly increasing with the development of structure prediction algorithms. With the expanding availability of data, new ways of analysis, especially topological analysis, of those predictions are becoming necessary. Here, we present the updated version of the AlphaKnot service that provides a straightforward way of analyzing structure topology. It was designed specifically to determine knot types of the predicted structure models, however, it can be used for all structures, including the ones solved experimentally. AlphaKnot 2.0 provides the user's ability to obtain the knowledge necessary to assess the topological correctness of the model. Both probabilistic and deterministic knot detection methods are available, together with various visualizations (including a trajectory of simplification steps to highlight the topological complexities). Moreover, the web server provides a list of proteins similar to the queried model within AlphaKnot's database and returns their knot types for direct comparison. We pre-calculated the topology of high-quality models from the AlphaFold Database (4th version) and there are now more than 680.000 knotted models available in the AlphaKnot database. AlphaKnot 2.0 is available at https://alphaknot.cent.uw.edu.pl/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawel Rubach
- Warsaw School of Economics, Al. Niepodleglosci 162, 02-554 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Sikora
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Agata P Perlinska
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna I Sulkowska
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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2
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Perlinska AP, Nguyen ML, Pilla SP, Staszor E, Lewandowska I, Bernat A, Purta E, Augustyniak R, Bujnicki JM, Sulkowska JI. Are there double knots in proteins? Prediction and in vitro verification based on TrmD-Tm1570 fusion from C. nitroreducens. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 10:1223830. [PMID: 38903539 PMCID: PMC11187310 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1223830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
We have been aware of the existence of knotted proteins for over 30 years-but it is hard to predict what is the most complicated knot that can be formed in proteins. Here, we show new and the most complex knotted topologies recorded to date-double trefoil knots (31 #31). We found five domain arrangements (architectures) that result in a doubly knotted structure in almost a thousand proteins. The double knot topology is found in knotted membrane proteins from the CaCA family, that function as ion transporters, in the group of carbonic anhydrases that catalyze the hydration of carbon dioxide, and in the proteins from the SPOUT superfamily that gathers 31 knotted methyltransferases with the active site-forming knot. For each family, we predict the presence of a double knot using AlphaFold and RoseTTaFold structure prediction. In the case of the TrmD-Tm1570 protein, which is a member of SPOUT superfamily, we show that it folds in vitro and is biologically active. Our results show that this protein forms a homodimeric structure and retains the ability to modify tRNA, which is the function of the single-domain TrmD protein. However, how the protein folds and is degraded remains unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mai Lan Nguyen
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Polish-Japanese Academy of Information Technology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Smita P. Pilla
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Emilia Staszor
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Agata Bernat
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Protein Engineering, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Purta
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Protein Engineering, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Janusz M. Bujnicki
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Protein Engineering, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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3
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Theuretzbacher U, Blasco B, Duffey M, Piddock LJV. Unrealized targets in the discovery of antibiotics for Gram-negative bacterial infections. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:957-975. [PMID: 37833553 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00791-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Advances in areas that include genomics, systems biology, protein structure determination and artificial intelligence provide new opportunities for target-based antibacterial drug discovery. The selection of a 'good' new target for direct-acting antibacterial compounds is the first decision, for which multiple criteria must be explored, integrated and re-evaluated as drug discovery programmes progress. Criteria include essentiality of the target for bacterial survival, its conservation across different strains of the same species, bacterial species and growth conditions (which determines the spectrum of activity of a potential antibiotic) and the level of homology with human genes (which influences the potential for selective inhibition). Additionally, a bacterial target should have the potential to bind to drug-like molecules, and its subcellular location will govern the need for inhibitors to penetrate one or two bacterial membranes, which is a key challenge in targeting Gram-negative bacteria. The risk of the emergence of target-based drug resistance for drugs with single targets also requires consideration. This Review describes promising but as-yet-unrealized targets for antibacterial drugs against Gram-negative bacteria and examples of cognate inhibitors, and highlights lessons learned from past drug discovery programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamin Blasco
- Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership (GARDP), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Maëlle Duffey
- Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership (GARDP), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laura J V Piddock
- Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership (GARDP), Geneva, Switzerland.
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4
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McGuffey JC, Jackson-Litteken CD, Di Venanzio G, Zimmer AA, Lewis JM, Distel JS, Kim KQ, Zaher HS, Alfonzo J, Scott NE, Feldman MF. The tRNA methyltransferase TrmB is critical for Acinetobacter baumannii stress responses and pulmonary infection. mBio 2023; 14:e0141623. [PMID: 37589464 PMCID: PMC10653896 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01416-23] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE As deficiencies in tRNA modifications have been linked to human diseases such as cancer and diabetes, much research has focused on the modifications' impacts on translational regulation in eukaryotes. However, the significance of tRNA modifications in bacterial physiology remains largely unexplored. In this paper, we demonstrate that the m7G tRNA methyltransferase TrmB is crucial for a top-priority pathogen, Acinetobacter baumannii, to respond to stressors encountered during infection, including oxidative stress, low pH, and iron deprivation. We show that loss of TrmB dramatically attenuates a murine pulmonary infection. Given the current efforts to use another tRNA methyltransferase, TrmD, as an antimicrobial therapeutic target, we propose that TrmB, and other tRNA methyltransferases, may also be viable options for drug development to combat multidrug-resistant A. baumannii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna C. McGuffey
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Clay D. Jackson-Litteken
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Gisela Di Venanzio
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Aubree A. Zimmer
- Department of Microbiology and The Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Jessica M. Lewis
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jesus S. Distel
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Kyusik Q. Kim
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Hani S. Zaher
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Juan Alfonzo
- Department of Microbiology and The Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Nichollas E. Scott
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mario F. Feldman
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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5
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Wilkinson AJ, Ooi N, Finlayson J, Lee VE, Lyth D, Maskew KS, Newman R, Orr D, Ansell K, Birchall K, Canning P, Coombs P, Fusani L, McIver E, Pisco J, Ireland PM, Jenkins C, Norville IH, Southern SJ, Cowan R, Hall G, Kettleborough C, Savage VJ, Cooper IR. Evaluating the druggability of TrmD, a potential antibacterial target, through design and microbiological profiling of a series of potent TrmD inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2023; 90:129331. [PMID: 37187252 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2023.129331] [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: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
The post-transcriptional modifier tRNA-(N1G37) methyltransferase (TrmD) has been proposed to be essential for growth in many Gram-negative and Gram-positive pathogens, however previously reported inhibitors show only weak antibacterial activity. In this work, optimisation of fragment hits resulted in compounds with low nanomolar TrmD inhibition incorporating features designed to enhance bacterial permeability and covering a range of physicochemical space. The resulting lack of significant antibacterial activity suggests that whilst TrmD is highly ligandable, its essentiality and druggability are called into question.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Wilkinson
- Infex Therapeutics Ltd, Mereside, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, SK10 4TG, UK.
| | - Nicola Ooi
- Infex Therapeutics Ltd, Mereside, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Jonathan Finlayson
- Infex Therapeutics Ltd, Mereside, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Victoria E Lee
- Infex Therapeutics Ltd, Mereside, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - David Lyth
- Infex Therapeutics Ltd, Mereside, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Kathryn S Maskew
- Infex Therapeutics Ltd, Mereside, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Rebecca Newman
- Infex Therapeutics Ltd, Mereside, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - David Orr
- Infex Therapeutics Ltd, Mereside, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Keith Ansell
- LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, SG1 2FX, UK
| | - Kristian Birchall
- LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, SG1 2FX, UK
| | - Peter Canning
- LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, SG1 2FX, UK
| | - Peter Coombs
- LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, SG1 2FX, UK
| | - Lucia Fusani
- LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, SG1 2FX, UK
| | - Ed McIver
- LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, SG1 2FX, UK
| | - João Pisco
- LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, SG1 2FX, UK
| | - Philip M Ireland
- CBR division, Dstl Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 0JQ, UK
| | | | | | | | - Richard Cowan
- Leicester Institute of Structural and Chemical Biology and Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Henry Wellcome Building, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Gareth Hall
- Leicester Institute of Structural and Chemical Biology and Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Henry Wellcome Building, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | | | - Victoria J Savage
- Infex Therapeutics Ltd, Mereside, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Ian R Cooper
- Infex Therapeutics Ltd, Mereside, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, SK10 4TG, UK
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6
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Fragment-Based Lead Discovery Strategies in Antimicrobial Drug Discovery. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12020315. [PMID: 36830226 PMCID: PMC9951956 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Fragment-based lead discovery (FBLD) is a powerful application for developing ligands as modulators of disease targets. This approach strategy involves identification of interactions between low-molecular weight compounds (100-300 Da) and their putative targets, often with low affinity (KD ~0.1-1 mM) interactions. The focus of this screening methodology is to optimize and streamline identification of fragments with higher ligand efficiency (LE) than typical high-throughput screening. The focus of this review is on the last half decade of fragment-based drug discovery strategies that have been used for antimicrobial drug discovery.
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7
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tRNA methylation resolves codon usage bias at the limit of cell viability. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111539. [PMID: 36288695 PMCID: PMC9643105 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Codon usage of each genome is closely correlated with the abundance of tRNA isoacceptors. How codon usage bias is resolved by tRNA post-transcriptional modifications is largely unknown. Here we demonstrate that the N1-methylation of guanosine at position 37 (m1G37) on the 3′-side of the anticodon, while not directly responsible for reading of codons, is a neutralizer that resolves differential decoding of proline codons. A genome-wide suppressor screen of a non-viable Escherichia coli strain, lacking m1G37, identifies proS suppressor mutations, indicating a coupling of methylation with tRNA prolyl-aminoacylation that sets the limit of cell viability. Using these suppressors, where prolyl-aminoacylation is decoupled from tRNA methylation, we show that m1G37 neutralizes differential translation of proline codons by the major isoacceptor. Lack of m1G37 inactivates this neutralization and exposes the need for a minor isoacceptor for cell viability. This work has medical implications for bacterial species that exclusively use the major isoacceptor for survival. Masuda et al. show that loss of m1G37 from the 3′ side of the tRNA anticodon renders a modified wobble nucleotide of the anticodon insufficient to decode a set of rare codons, providing a functional underpinning for the “modification circuit” between position 37 and the wobble position of the tRNA anticodon.
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8
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Togre NS, Vargas AM, Bhargavi G, Mallakuntla MK, Tiwari S. Fragment-Based Drug Discovery against Mycobacteria: The Success and Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810669. [PMID: 36142582 PMCID: PMC9500838 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810669] [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: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of drug-resistant mycobacteria, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), poses an increasing global threat that urgently demands the development of new potent anti-mycobacterial drugs. One of the approaches toward the identification of new drugs is fragment-based drug discovery (FBDD), which is the most ingenious among other drug discovery models, such as structure-based drug design (SBDD) and high-throughput screening. Specialized techniques, such as X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and many others, are part of the drug discovery approach to combat the Mtb and NTM global menaces. Moreover, the primary drawbacks of traditional methods, such as the limited measurement of biomolecular toxicity and uncertain bioavailability evaluation, are successfully overcome by the FBDD approach. The current review focuses on the recognition of fragment-based drug discovery as a popular approach using virtual, computational, and biophysical methods to identify potent fragment molecules. FBDD focuses on designing optimal inhibitors against potential therapeutic targets of NTM and Mtb (PurC, ArgB, MmpL3, and TrmD). Additionally, we have elaborated on the challenges associated with the FBDD approach in the identification and development of novel compounds. Insights into the applications and overcoming the challenges of FBDD approaches will aid in the identification of potential therapeutic compounds to treat drug-sensitive and drug-resistant NTMs and Mtb infections.
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9
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Sweeney P, Galliford A, Kumar A, Raju D, Krishna NB, Sutherland E, Leo CJ, Fisher G, Lalitha R, Muthuraj L, Sigamani G, Oehler V, Synowsky S, Shirran SL, Gloster TM, Czekster CM, Kumar P, da Silva RG. Structure, dynamics, and molecular inhibition of the Staphylococcus aureus m 1A22-tRNA methyltransferase TrmK. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102040. [PMID: 35595101 PMCID: PMC9190014 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The enzyme m1A22-tRNA methyltransferase (TrmK) catalyzes the transfer of a methyl group to the N1 of adenine 22 in bacterial tRNAs. TrmK is essential for Staphylococcus aureus survival during infection but has no homolog in mammals, making it a promising target for antibiotic development. Here, we characterize the structure and function of S. aureus TrmK (SaTrmK) using X-ray crystallography, binding assays, and molecular dynamics simulations. We report crystal structures for the SaTrmK apoenzyme as well as in complexes with methyl donor SAM and co-product product SAH. Isothermal titration calorimetry showed that SAM binds to the enzyme with favorable but modest enthalpic and entropic contributions, whereas SAH binding leads to an entropic penalty compensated for by a large favorable enthalpic contribution. Molecular dynamics simulations point to specific motions of the C-terminal domain being altered by SAM binding, which might have implications for tRNA recruitment. In addition, activity assays for SaTrmK-catalyzed methylation of A22 mutants of tRNALeu demonstrate that the adenine at position 22 is absolutely essential. In silico screening of compounds suggested the multifunctional organic toxin plumbagin as a potential inhibitor of TrmK, which was confirmed by activity measurements. Furthermore, LC-MS data indicated the protein was covalently modified by one equivalent of the inhibitor, and proteolytic digestion coupled with LC-MS identified Cys92 in the vicinity of the SAM-binding site as the sole residue modified. These results identify a cryptic binding pocket of SaTrmK, laying a foundation for future structure-based drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Sweeney
- School of Biology, Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK
| | - Ashleigh Galliford
- School of Biology, Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK
| | | | - Dinesh Raju
- Kcat Enzymatic Private Limited, Bangalore, India
| | | | - Emmajay Sutherland
- School of Biology, Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK
| | - Caitlin J Leo
- School of Biology, Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK
| | - Gemma Fisher
- School of Biology, Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK
| | | | | | | | - Verena Oehler
- School of Biology, Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK
| | - Silvia Synowsky
- School of Biology, Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK
| | - Sally L Shirran
- School of Biology, Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK
| | - Tracey M Gloster
- School of Biology, Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK
| | - Clarissa M Czekster
- School of Biology, Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK
| | - Pravin Kumar
- Kcat Enzymatic Private Limited, Bangalore, India.
| | - Rafael G da Silva
- School of Biology, Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK.
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10
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Fischer TR, Meidner L, Schwickert M, Weber M, Zimmermann RA, Kersten C, Schirmeister T, Helm M. Chemical biology and medicinal chemistry of RNA methyltransferases. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:4216-4245. [PMID: 35412633 PMCID: PMC9071492 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA methyltransferases (MTases) are ubiquitous enzymes whose hitherto low profile in medicinal chemistry, contrasts with the surging interest in RNA methylation, the arguably most important aspect of the new field of epitranscriptomics. As MTases become validated as drug targets in all major fields of biomedicine, the development of small molecule compounds as tools and inhibitors is picking up considerable momentum, in academia as well as in biotech. Here we discuss the development of small molecules for two related aspects of chemical biology. Firstly, derivates of the ubiquitous cofactor S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM) are being developed as bioconjugation tools for targeted transfer of functional groups and labels to increasingly visible targets. Secondly, SAM-derived compounds are being investigated for their ability to act as inhibitors of RNA MTases. Drug development is moving from derivatives of cosubstrates towards higher generation compounds that may address allosteric sites in addition to the catalytic centre. Progress in assay development and screening techniques from medicinal chemistry have led to recent breakthroughs, e.g. in addressing human enzymes targeted for their role in cancer. Spurred by the current pandemic, new inhibitors against coronaviral MTases have emerged at a spectacular rate, including a repurposed drug which is now in clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim R Fischer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Laurenz Meidner
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Marvin Schwickert
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Marlies Weber
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Robert A Zimmermann
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Christian Kersten
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Tanja Schirmeister
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
| | - Mark Helm
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128Mainz, Germany
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11
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Clifton BE, Fariz MA, Uechi GI, Laurino P. Evolutionary repair reveals an unexpected role of the tRNA modification m1G37 in aminoacylation. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:12467-12485. [PMID: 34761260 PMCID: PMC8643618 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab1067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The tRNA modification m1G37, introduced by the tRNA methyltransferase TrmD, is thought to be essential for growth in bacteria because it suppresses translational frameshift errors at proline codons. However, because bacteria can tolerate high levels of mistranslation, it is unclear why loss of m1G37 is not tolerated. Here, we addressed this question through experimental evolution of trmD mutant strains of Escherichia coli. Surprisingly, trmD mutant strains were viable even if the m1G37 modification was completely abolished, and showed rapid recovery of growth rate, mainly via duplication or mutation of the proline-tRNA ligase gene proS. Growth assays and in vitro aminoacylation assays showed that G37-unmodified tRNAPro is aminoacylated less efficiently than m1G37-modified tRNAPro, and that growth of trmD mutant strains can be largely restored by single mutations in proS that restore aminoacylation of G37-unmodified tRNAPro. These results show that inefficient aminoacylation of tRNAPro is the main reason for growth defects observed in trmD mutant strains and that proS may act as a gatekeeper of translational accuracy, preventing the use of error-prone unmodified tRNAPro in translation. Our work shows the utility of experimental evolution for uncovering the hidden functions of essential genes and has implications for the development of antibiotics targeting TrmD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben E Clifton
- Protein Engineering and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Onna, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan
| | - Muhammad A Fariz
- Protein Engineering and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Onna, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan
| | - Gen-Ichiro Uechi
- Protein Engineering and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Onna, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan
| | - Paola Laurino
- Protein Engineering and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Onna, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan
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12
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Design, Synthesis and In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of 6-(1H-Benzimidazol-2-yl)-3,5-dimethyl-4-oxo-2-thio-3,4-dihydrothieno[2,3-d]pyrimidines. Sci Pharm 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/scipharm89040049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid development in bacterial resistance to many groups of known antibiotics forces the researchers to discover antibacterial drug candidates with previously unknown mechanisms of action, one of the most relevant being the inhibition of tRNA (Guanine37-N1)-methyltransferase (TrmD). The discovery of selective TrmD inhibitors in the series of carboxamide derivatives of thienopyrimidines became a background for further modification of the similar structures aimed at the development of promising antibacterial agents. As part of this research, we carried out the construction of heterocyclic hybrids bearing the moieties of thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine and benzimidazole starting from 3,5-dimethyl-4-oxo-2-thioxo-1H-thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine-6-carboxylic acid, which was used as the pivotal intermediate. The hybrid molecule of 6-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)-3,5-dimethyl-2-thioxo-1H-thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-one prepared via condensation of the carboxylic acid with ortho-phenylenediamine was further alkylated with aryl/hetaryl chloroacetamides and benzyl chloride to produce the series of S-alkyl derivatives. The results of molecular docking studies for the obtained series of S-alkyl benzimidazole-thienopyrimidines showed their high affinity to the TrmD isolated from the P. aeruginosa. The results of antimicrobial activity screening revealed the antimicrobial properties for all of the studied molecules against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and the Candida albicans fungal strain. The highest antimicrobial activity was determined for 2-{[6-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)-3,5-dimethyl-4-oxo-3,4-dihydrothieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-2-yl]thio}-N-(4-isopropylphenyl)acetamide, which also had the highest affinity to the TrmD inhibitor’s binding site according to the docking studies results.
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13
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Kouvela A, Zaravinos A, Stamatopoulou V. Adaptor Molecules Epitranscriptome Reprograms Bacterial Pathogenicity. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8409. [PMID: 34445114 PMCID: PMC8395126 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The strong decoration of tRNAs with post-transcriptional modifications provides an unprecedented adaptability of this class of non-coding RNAs leading to the regulation of bacterial growth and pathogenicity. Accumulating data indicate that tRNA post-transcriptional modifications possess a central role in both the formation of bacterial cell wall and the modulation of transcription and translation fidelity, but also in the expression of virulence factors. Evolutionary conserved modifications in tRNA nucleosides ensure the proper folding and stability redounding to a totally functional molecule. However, environmental factors including stress conditions can cause various alterations in tRNA modifications, disturbing the pathogen homeostasis. Post-transcriptional modifications adjacent to the anticodon stem-loop, for instance, have been tightly linked to bacterial infectivity. Currently, advances in high throughput methodologies have facilitated the identification and functional investigation of such tRNA modifications offering a broader pool of putative alternative molecular targets and therapeutic avenues against bacterial infections. Herein, we focus on tRNA epitranscriptome shaping regarding modifications with a key role in bacterial infectivity including opportunistic pathogens of the human microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adamantia Kouvela
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece;
| | - Apostolos Zaravinos
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
- Cancer Genetics, Genomics and Systems Biology Group, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center (BTCRC), Nicosia 1516, Cyprus
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14
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Structure based design, synthesis and evaluation of new thienopyrimidine derivatives as anti-bacterial agents. J Mol Struct 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2021.130168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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15
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Kimura S. Distinct evolutionary pathways for the synthesis and function of tRNA modifications. Brief Funct Genomics 2021; 20:125-134. [PMID: 33454776 DOI: 10.1093/bfgp/elaa027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Transfer ribonucleicacids (RNAs) (tRNAs) are essential adaptor molecules for translation. The functions and stability of tRNAs are modulated by their post-transcriptional modifications (tRNA modifications). Each domain of life has a specific set of modifications that include ones shared in multiple domains and ones specific to a domain. In some cases, different tRNA modifications across domains have similar functions to each other. Recent studies uncovered that distinct enzymes synthesize the same modification in different organisms, suggesting that such modifications are acquired through independent evolution. In this short review, I outline the mechanisms by which various modifications contribute to tRNA function, including modulation of decoding and tRNA stability, using recent findings. I also focus on modifications that are synthesized by distinct biosynthetic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Kimura
- Dr Matthew Waldor's lab at the Brigham and Women's Hospital. He completed his PhD and early postdoc work in Dr Tsutomu Suzuki's lab at the University of Tokyo
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16
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Tripathi G, Singh AK, Kumar A. Arylpyrazoles: Heterocyclic Scaffold of Immense Therapeutic Application. CURR ORG CHEM 2020. [DOI: 10.2174/1570179417999200628035645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Among the major class of heterocycles, the N-heterocycles, such as pyrazoles,
are scaffolds of vast medicinal values. Various drugs and other biologically active molecules
are known to contain these N-heterocycles as core motifs. Specifically, arylpyrazoles
have exhibited a diverse range of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anticancerous,
antimicrobial and various others. For instance, arylpyrazoles are present as
core moieties in various insecticides, fungicides and drugs such as Celebrex and Trocoxil.
The present review will be highlighting the significant therapeutic importance of pyrazole
derivatives developed in the last few years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garima Tripathi
- Department of Chemistry, T. N. B. College, Tilka Manjhi Bhagalpur University, Bhagalpur, Bihar, India
| | - Anil Kumar Singh
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Bihar, India
| | - Abhijeet Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Bihar, India
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17
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Thomas SE, Whitehouse AJ, Brown K, Burbaud S, Belardinelli J, Sangen J, Lahiri R, Libardo M, Gupta P, Malhotra S, Boshoff HIM, Jackson M, Abell C, Coyne A, Blundell TL, Floto RA, Mendes V. Fragment-based discovery of a new class of inhibitors targeting mycobacterial tRNA modification. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:8099-8112. [PMID: 32602532 PMCID: PMC7641325 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Translational frameshift errors are often deleterious to the synthesis of functional proteins and could therefore be promoted therapeutically to kill bacteria. TrmD (tRNA-(N(1)G37) methyltransferase) is an essential tRNA modification enzyme in bacteria that prevents +1 errors in the reading frame during protein translation and represents an attractive potential target for the development of new antibiotics. Here, we describe the application of a structure-guided fragment-based drug discovery approach to the design of a new class of inhibitors against TrmD in Mycobacterium abscessus. Fragment library screening, followed by structure-guided chemical elaboration of hits, led to the rapid development of drug-like molecules with potent in vitro TrmD inhibitory activity. Several of these compounds exhibit activity against planktonic M. abscessus and M. tuberculosis as well as against intracellular M. abscessus and M. leprae, indicating their potential as the basis for a novel class of broad-spectrum mycobacterial drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherine E Thomas
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK
| | - Andrew J Whitehouse
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK
| | - Karen Brown
- University of Cambridge Molecular Immunity Unit, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
- Cambridge Centre for Lung Infection, Royal Papworth Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0AY, UK
| | - Sophie Burbaud
- University of Cambridge Molecular Immunity Unit, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Juan M Belardinelli
- Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Jasper Sangen
- University of Cambridge Molecular Immunity Unit, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Ramanuj Lahiri
- National Hansen's Disease Program, Healthcare Systems Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, Department of Health and Human Services, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Mark Daben J Libardo
- Tuberculosis Research Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Pooja Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK
| | - Sony Malhotra
- Birkbeck College, University of London, Malet Street WC1E7HX, UK
| | - Helena I M Boshoff
- Tuberculosis Research Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Mary Jackson
- Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Chris Abell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK
| | - Anthony G Coyne
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK
| | - Tom L Blundell
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK
| | - Rodrigo Andres Floto
- University of Cambridge Molecular Immunity Unit, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
- Cambridge Centre for Lung Infection, Royal Papworth Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0AY, UK
| | - Vítor Mendes
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK
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18
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Li Q. Application of Fragment-Based Drug Discovery to Versatile Targets. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 7:180. [PMID: 32850968 PMCID: PMC7419598 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.00180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragment-based drug discovery (FBDD) is a powerful method to develop potent small-molecule compounds starting from fragments binding weakly to targets. As FBDD exhibits several advantages over high-throughput screening campaigns, it becomes an attractive strategy in target-based drug discovery. Many potent compounds/inhibitors of diverse targets have been developed using this approach. Methods used in fragment screening and understanding fragment-binding modes are critical in FBDD. This review elucidates fragment libraries, methods utilized in fragment identification/confirmation, strategies applied in growing the identified fragments into drug-like lead compounds, and applications of FBDD to different targets. As FBDD can be readily carried out through different biophysical and computer-based methods, it will play more important roles in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingxin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Biomass High Value Utilization, Guangdong Provincial Bioengineering Institute, Guangzhou Sugarcane Industry Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
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19
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de Crécy-Lagard V, Jaroch M. Functions of Bacterial tRNA Modifications: From Ubiquity to Diversity. Trends Microbiol 2020; 29:41-53. [PMID: 32718697 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2020.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Modified nucleotides in tRNA are critical components of the translation apparatus, but their importance in the process of translational regulation had until recently been greatly overlooked. Two breakthroughs have recently allowed a fuller understanding of the importance of tRNA modifications in bacterial physiology. One is the identification of the full set of tRNA modification genes in model organisms such as Escherichia coli K12. The second is the improvement of available analytical tools to monitor tRNA modification patterns. The role of tRNA modifications varies greatly with the specific modification within a given tRNA and with the organism studied. The absence of these modifications or reductions can lead to cell death or pleiotropic phenotypes or may have no apparent visible effect. By linking translation through their decoding functions to metabolism through their biosynthetic pathways, tRNA modifications are emerging as important components of the bacterial regulatory toolbox.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie de Crécy-Lagard
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
| | - Marshall Jaroch
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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20
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Goi T, Nakajima T, Komatsu Y, Kawata A, Yamakoshi S, Okada O, Sugahara M, Umeda A, Takada Y, Murakami J, Ohashi R, Watanabe T, Fukase K. Pyrazolo[4,3- d]pyrimidine Derivatives as a Novel Hypoxia-Inducible Factor Prolyl Hydroxylase Domain Inhibitor for the Treatment of Anemia. ACS Med Chem Lett 2020; 11:1416-1420. [PMID: 32676148 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.0c00108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase domain (HIF-PHD) promotes erythropoietin (EPO) production by stabilizing the HIFα subunit. Thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine 8 identified based on X-ray crystal structure analysis was optimized to lead to the discovery of pyrazolo[4,3-d]pyrimidine 13 as the lead compound of orally bioavailable HIF-PHD inhibitors. Conversion of the benzyl moiety in 13 gave pyrazolopyrimidine 19 with high solubility and bioavailability, which increased hemoglobin levels in anemic model rats after repeated oral administration. It was shown that pyrazolo[4,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives are promising therapeutic agents for renal anemia through the inhibition of HIF-PHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Goi
- Sohyaku Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000, Kamoshida-cho, Aobaku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Osaka University, 1-1, Machikaneyama, Toyonaka 560-0043, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Nakajima
- Sohyaku Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000, Kamoshida-cho, Aobaku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Komatsu
- Sohyaku Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000, Kamoshida-cho, Aobaku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kawata
- Sohyaku Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000, Kamoshida-cho, Aobaku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan
| | - Shuhei Yamakoshi
- Sohyaku Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000, Kamoshida-cho, Aobaku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan
| | - Okimasa Okada
- Sohyaku Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000, Kamoshida-cho, Aobaku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan
| | - Masakatsu Sugahara
- Sohyaku Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000, Kamoshida-cho, Aobaku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan
| | - Asami Umeda
- Sohyaku Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000, Kamoshida-cho, Aobaku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan
| | - Yoko Takada
- Sohyaku Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000, Kamoshida-cho, Aobaku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan
| | - Jun Murakami
- Sohyaku Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000, Kamoshida-cho, Aobaku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan
| | - Rikiya Ohashi
- Sohyaku Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000, Kamoshida-cho, Aobaku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan
| | - Tomoko Watanabe
- Sohyaku Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000, Kamoshida-cho, Aobaku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan
| | - Koichi Fukase
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Osaka University, 1-1, Machikaneyama, Toyonaka 560-0043, Japan
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21
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Hou YM, Masuda I, Foster LJ. tRNA methylation: An unexpected link to bacterial resistance and persistence to antibiotics and beyond. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2020; 11:e1609. [PMID: 32533808 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
A major threat to public health is the resistance and persistence of Gram-negative bacteria to multiple drugs during antibiotic treatment. The resistance is due to the ability of these bacteria to block antibiotics from permeating into and accumulating inside the cell, while the persistence is due to the ability of these bacteria to enter into a nonreplicating state that shuts down major metabolic pathways but remains active in drug efflux. Resistance and persistence are permitted by the unique cell envelope structure of Gram-negative bacteria, which consists of both an outer and an inner membrane (OM and IM, respectively) that lay above and below the cell wall. Unexpectedly, recent work reveals that m1 G37 methylation of tRNA, at the N1 of guanosine at position 37 on the 3'-side of the tRNA anticodon, controls biosynthesis of both membranes and determines the integrity of cell envelope structure, thus providing a novel link to the development of bacterial resistance and persistence to antibiotics. The impact of m1 G37-tRNA methylation on Gram-negative bacteria can reach further, by determining the ability of these bacteria to exit from the persistence state when the antibiotic treatment is removed. These conceptual advances raise the possibility that successful targeting of m1 G37-tRNA methylation can provide new approaches for treating acute and chronic infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. This article is categorized under: Translation > Translation Regulation RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification RNA Structure and Dynamics > Influence of RNA Structure in Biological Systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ming Hou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Isao Masuda
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Leonard J Foster
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, and Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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22
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Restriction of S-adenosylmethionine conformational freedom by knotted protein binding sites. PLoS Comput Biol 2020; 16:e1007904. [PMID: 32453784 PMCID: PMC7319350 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1007904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) is one of the most important enzyme substrates. It is vital for the function of various proteins, including large group of methyltransferases (MTs). Intriguingly, some bacterial and eukaryotic MTs, while catalysing the same reaction, possess significantly different topologies, with the former being a knotted one. Here, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of SAM conformational space and factors that affect its vastness. We investigated SAM in two forms: free in water (via NMR studies and explicit solvent simulations) and bound to proteins (based on all data available in the PDB and on all-atom molecular dynamics simulations in water). We identified structural descriptors—angles which show the major differences in SAM conformation between unknotted and knotted methyltransferases. Moreover, we report that this is caused mainly by a characteristic for knotted MTs compact binding site formed by the knot and the presence of adenine-binding loop. Additionally, we elucidate conformational restrictions imposed on SAM molecules by other protein groups in comparison to conformational space in water. The topology of a folded polypeptide chain has great impact on the resulting protein function and its interaction with ligands. Interestingly, topological constraints appear to affect binding of one of the most ubiquitous substrates in the cell, S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), to its target proteins. Here, we demonstrate how binding sites of specific proteins restrict SAM conformational freedom in comparison to its unbound state, with a special interest in proteins with non-trivial topology, including an exciting group of knotted methyltransferases. Using a vast array of computational methods combined with NMR experiments, we identify key structural features of knotted methyltransferases that impose unorthodox SAM conformations. We compare them with the characteristics of standard, unknotted SAM binding proteins. These results are significant for understanding differences between analogous, yet topologically different enzymes, as well as for future rational drug design.
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23
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Lloyd
- Drug & Target Development, Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K
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24
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Li Y, Zhong W, Koay AZ, Ng HQ, Nah Q, Wong YH, Hill J, Lescar J, Dedon PC, Kang C. Backbone resonance assignment for the full length tRNA-(N 1G37) methyltransferase of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. BIOMOLECULAR NMR ASSIGNMENTS 2019; 13:327-332. [PMID: 31175551 DOI: 10.1007/s12104-019-09900-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial tRNA (guanine37-N1)-methyltransferase (TrmD) plays important roles in translation, making it an important target for the development of new antibacterial compounds. TrmD comprises two domains with the N-terminal domain binding to the S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) cofactor and the C-terminal domain critical for tRNA binding. Bacterial TrmD is functional as a dimer. Here we report the backbone NMR resonance assignments for the full length TrmD protein of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Most resonances were assigned and the secondary structure for each amino acid was determined according to the assigned backbone resonances. The availability of the assignment will be valuable for exploring molecular interactions of TrmD with ligands, inhibitors and tRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Experimental Drug Development Centre, 10 Biopolis Road, #05-01, Singapore, 138670, Singapore
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenhe Zhong
- Infectious Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Groups, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, 1 CREATE Way, Singapore, 138602, Singapore
- NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 636921, Singapore
| | - Ann Zhufang Koay
- Experimental Drug Development Centre, 10 Biopolis Road, #05-01, Singapore, 138670, Singapore
| | - Hui Qi Ng
- Experimental Drug Development Centre, 10 Biopolis Road, #05-01, Singapore, 138670, Singapore
| | - Qianhui Nah
- Infectious Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Groups, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, 1 CREATE Way, Singapore, 138602, Singapore
| | - Yee Hwa Wong
- NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 636921, Singapore
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Jeffrey Hill
- Experimental Drug Development Centre, 10 Biopolis Road, #05-01, Singapore, 138670, Singapore
| | - Julien Lescar
- NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 636921, Singapore.
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551, Singapore.
| | - Peter C Dedon
- Infectious Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Groups, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, 1 CREATE Way, Singapore, 138602, Singapore.
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
| | - CongBao Kang
- Experimental Drug Development Centre, 10 Biopolis Road, #05-01, Singapore, 138670, Singapore.
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25
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Zhong W, Pasunooti KK, Balamkundu S, Wong YH, Nah Q, Gadi V, Gnanakalai S, Chionh YH, McBee ME, Gopal P, Lim SH, Olivier N, Buurman ET, Dick T, Liu CF, Lescar J, Dedon PC. Thienopyrimidinone Derivatives That Inhibit Bacterial tRNA (Guanine37- N1)-Methyltransferase (TrmD) by Restructuring the Active Site with a Tyrosine-Flipping Mechanism. J Med Chem 2019; 62:7788-7805. [PMID: 31442049 PMCID: PMC6748665 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
![]()
Among the >120
modified ribonucleosides in the prokaryotic epitranscriptome,
many tRNA modifications are critical to bacterial survival, which
makes their synthetic enzymes ideal targets for antibiotic development.
Here we performed a structure-based design of inhibitors of tRNA-(N1G37) methyltransferase, TrmD, which is an essential enzyme
in many bacterial pathogens. On the basis of crystal structures of
TrmDs from Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, we synthesized a series
of thienopyrimidinone derivatives with nanomolar potency against TrmD
in vitro and discovered a novel active site conformational change
triggered by inhibitor binding. This tyrosine-flipping mechanism is
uniquely found in P. aeruginosa TrmD
and renders the enzyme inaccessible to the cofactor S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM) and probably to the substrate
tRNA. Biophysical and biochemical structure–activity relationship
studies provided insights into the mechanisms underlying the potency
of thienopyrimidinones as TrmD inhibitors, with several derivatives
found to be active against Gram-positive and mycobacterial pathogens.
These results lay a foundation for further development of TrmD inhibitors
as antimicrobial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhe Zhong
- Infectious Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Groups , Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology , 1 CREATE Way , 138602 Singapore.,NTU Institute of Structural Biology , Nanyang Technological University , 636921 Singapore
| | - Kalyan Kumar Pasunooti
- Infectious Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Groups , Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology , 1 CREATE Way , 138602 Singapore
| | - Seetharamsing Balamkundu
- Infectious Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Groups , Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology , 1 CREATE Way , 138602 Singapore
| | - Yee Hwa Wong
- School of Biological Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 60 Nanyang Drive , 637551 Singapore.,NTU Institute of Structural Biology , Nanyang Technological University , 636921 Singapore
| | - Qianhui Nah
- Infectious Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Groups , Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology , 1 CREATE Way , 138602 Singapore
| | - Vinod Gadi
- Infectious Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Groups , Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology , 1 CREATE Way , 138602 Singapore
| | - Shanmugavel Gnanakalai
- Infectious Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Groups , Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology , 1 CREATE Way , 138602 Singapore
| | - Yok Hian Chionh
- Infectious Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Groups , Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology , 1 CREATE Way , 138602 Singapore
| | - Megan E McBee
- Infectious Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Groups , Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology , 1 CREATE Way , 138602 Singapore
| | - Pooja Gopal
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine , National University of Singapore , 117597 Singapore
| | - Siau Hoi Lim
- School of Biological Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 60 Nanyang Drive , 637551 Singapore
| | | | | | - Thomas Dick
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine , National University of Singapore , 117597 Singapore
| | - Chuan Fa Liu
- School of Biological Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 60 Nanyang Drive , 637551 Singapore
| | - Julien Lescar
- School of Biological Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 60 Nanyang Drive , 637551 Singapore.,NTU Institute of Structural Biology , Nanyang Technological University , 636921 Singapore
| | - Peter C Dedon
- Infectious Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Groups , Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology , 1 CREATE Way , 138602 Singapore.,Department of Biological Engineering , Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge , Massachusetts 02139 , United States
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26
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Whitehouse A, Thomas SE, Brown KP, Fanourakis A, Chan DSH, Libardo MDJ, Mendes V, Boshoff HIM, Floto RA, Abell C, Blundell TL, Coyne AG. Development of Inhibitors against Mycobacterium abscessus tRNA (m 1G37) Methyltransferase (TrmD) Using Fragment-Based Approaches. J Med Chem 2019; 62:7210-7232. [PMID: 31282680 PMCID: PMC6691401 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Mycobacterium abscessus (Mab) is a rapidly growing species of multidrug-resistant nontuberculous mycobacteria that has emerged as a growing threat to individuals with cystic fibrosis and other pre-existing chronic lung diseases. Mab pulmonary infections are difficult, or sometimes impossible, to treat and result in accelerated lung function decline and premature death. There is therefore an urgent need to develop novel antibiotics with improved efficacy. tRNA (m1G37) methyltransferase (TrmD) is a promising target for novel antibiotics. It is essential in Mab and other mycobacteria, improving reading frame maintenance on the ribosome to prevent frameshift errors. In this work, a fragment-based approach was employed with the merging of two fragments bound to the active site, followed by structure-guided elaboration to design potent nanomolar inhibitors against Mab TrmD. Several of these compounds exhibit promising activity against mycobacterial species, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium leprae in addition to Mab, supporting the use of TrmD as a target for the development of antimycobacterial compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew
J. Whitehouse
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K.
| | - Sherine E. Thomas
- Department
of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, U.K.
| | - Karen P. Brown
- Molecular
Immunity Unit, Department of Medicine, MRC Laboratory of Molecular
Biology, University of Cambridge, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge
Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QH, U.K.
- Cambridge
Centre for Lung Infection, Royal Papworth
Hospital, Cambridge CB23 3RE, U.K.
| | - Alexander Fanourakis
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K.
| | - Daniel S.-H. Chan
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K.
| | - M. Daben J. Libardo
- Tuberculosis
Research Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology,
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Vitor Mendes
- Department
of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, U.K.
| | - Helena I. M. Boshoff
- Tuberculosis
Research Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology,
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - R. Andres Floto
- Molecular
Immunity Unit, Department of Medicine, MRC Laboratory of Molecular
Biology, University of Cambridge, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge
Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QH, U.K.
- Cambridge
Centre for Lung Infection, Royal Papworth
Hospital, Cambridge CB23 3RE, U.K.
| | - Chris Abell
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K.
| | - Tom L. Blundell
- Department
of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, U.K.
| | - Anthony G. Coyne
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, U.K.
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