1
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Tang Y, Zhang Y, Zhang D, Liu Y, Nussinov R, Zheng J. Exploring pathological link between antimicrobial and amyloid peptides. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:8713-8763. [PMID: 39041297 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00878a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Amyloid peptides (AMYs) and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are considered as the two distinct families of peptides, characterized by their unique sequences, structures, biological functions, and specific pathological targets. However, accumulating evidence has revealed intriguing pathological connections between these peptide families in the context of microbial infection and neurodegenerative diseases. Some AMYs and AMPs share certain structural and functional characteristics, including the ability to self-assemble, the presence of β-sheet-rich structures, and membrane-disrupting mechanisms. These shared features enable AMYs to possess antimicrobial activity and AMPs to acquire amyloidogenic properties. Despite limited studies on AMYs-AMPs systems, the cross-seeding phenomenon between AMYs and AMPs has emerged as a crucial factor in the bidirectional communication between the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases and host defense against microbial infections. In this review, we examine recent developments in the potential interplay between AMYs and AMPs, as well as their pathological implications for both infectious and neurodegenerative diseases. By discussing the current progress and challenges in this emerging field, this account aims to inspire further research and investments to enhance our understanding of the intricate molecular crosstalk between AMYs and AMPs. This knowledge holds great promise for the development of innovative therapies to combat both microbial infections and neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijing Tang
- Department of Chemical, Biomolecular, and Corrosion Engineering, The University of Akron, Ohio 44325, USA.
| | - Yanxian Zhang
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Dong Zhang
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, USA
| | - Yonglan Liu
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Ruth Nussinov
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Jie Zheng
- Department of Chemical, Biomolecular, and Corrosion Engineering, The University of Akron, Ohio 44325, USA.
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2
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Ulmschneider JP, Ulmschneider MB. Melittin can permeabilize membranes via large transient pores. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7281. [PMID: 39179607 PMCID: PMC11343860 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51691-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Membrane active peptides are known to porate lipid bilayers, but their exact permeabilization mechanism and the structure of the nanoaggregates they form in membranes have often been difficult to determine experimentally. For many sequences at lower peptide concentrations, transient leakage is observed in experiments, suggesting the existence of transient pores. For two well-know peptides, alamethicin and melittin, we show here that molecular mechanics simulations i) can directly distinguish equilibrium poration and non-equilibrium transient leakage processes, and ii) can be used to observe the detailed pore structures and mechanism of permeabilization in both cases. Our results are in very high agreement with numerous experimental evidence for these two peptides. This suggests that molecular simulations can capture key membrane poration phenomena directly and in the future may develop to be a useful tool that can assist experimental peptide design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob P Ulmschneider
- Institute of Natural Sciences and School of Physics and Astronomy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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3
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Bindlish A, Sawal A. Bee Sting Venom as a Viable Therapy for Breast Cancer: A Review Article. Cureus 2024; 16:e54855. [PMID: 38533165 PMCID: PMC10964279 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54855] [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: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a kind of aggressive cancer that significantly affects women worldwide, thus making research on alternative and new therapies necessary. The potential impact of bee venom on breast cancer is the main subject of this analysis of this research article. Bee venom has drawn the attention of the world with the help of its constituent ingredients, namely the bioactive compounds, enzymes, and complex blend of proteins. They have a particularly varied chemical makeup and proven anti-cancer capabilities. This is a detailed review demonstrating the components of bee venom and their individual functions in fighting cancer, as well as the results of previously conducted in-vitro and in-vivo research. As described later, bee venom has given positive results in triggering apoptosis, preventing cell migration, inhibiting metastasis and invasion, and suppressing the existing breast cancer cells. It is found to have worked better along with the already existing chemotherapy treatments. These results were also proved with the help of various animal studies that showed reduced tumor development, reduced metastasis, and improved therapeutic effectiveness. Furthermore, certain studies and case reports from all over the world have exhibited consistent results in females affected by breast cancer. This study found that people receiving chemotherapy experienced improved health outcomes and reduced discomfort, with fewer negative side effects. It is important to conduct extensive research on the safety and effectiveness of this treatment because it is yet to be approved. The ideal dosage and administration methods must be explored in clinical trials. Moreover, it is imperative to evaluate the results of any combined treatments with current medications. There should be constant monitoring to prevent any potential side effects. Other important things like allergic reactions and hidden concerns should also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aabhas Bindlish
- Anatomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Anupama Sawal
- Anatomy, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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4
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Melcrová A, Maity S, Melcr J, de Kok NAW, Gabler M, van der Eyden J, Stensen W, Svendsen JSM, Driessen AJM, Marrink SJ, Roos WH. Lateral membrane organization as target of an antimicrobial peptidomimetic compound. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4038. [PMID: 37419980 PMCID: PMC10328936 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39726-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is one of the leading concerns in medical care. Here we study the mechanism of action of an antimicrobial cationic tripeptide, AMC-109, by combining high speed-atomic force microscopy, molecular dynamics, fluorescence assays, and lipidomic analysis. We show that AMC-109 activity on negatively charged membranes derived from Staphylococcus aureus consists of two crucial steps. First, AMC-109 self-assembles into stable aggregates consisting of a hydrophobic core and a cationic surface, with specificity for negatively charged membranes. Second, upon incorporation into the membrane, individual peptides insert into the outer monolayer, affecting lateral membrane organization and dissolving membrane nanodomains, without forming pores. We propose that membrane domain dissolution triggered by AMC-109 may affect crucial functions such as protein sorting and cell wall synthesis. Our results indicate that the AMC-109 mode of action resembles that of the disinfectant benzalkonium chloride (BAK), but with enhanced selectivity for bacterial membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adéla Melcrová
- Molecular Biophysics, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sourav Maity
- Molecular Biophysics, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Josef Melcr
- Molecular Dynamics, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences & Biotechnology Institute, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Niels A W de Kok
- Molecular Microbiology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences & Biotechnology Institute, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Mariella Gabler
- Molecular Biophysics, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Jonne van der Eyden
- Molecular Biophysics, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Wenche Stensen
- Department of Chemistry, UiT Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - John S M Svendsen
- Department of Chemistry, UiT Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Arnold J M Driessen
- Molecular Microbiology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences & Biotechnology Institute, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Siewert J Marrink
- Molecular Biophysics, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
- Molecular Dynamics, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences & Biotechnology Institute, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Wouter H Roos
- Molecular Biophysics, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.
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5
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Li Q, Shi Z, Ou M, Li Z, Luo M, Wu M, Dong X, Lu L, Lv F, Zhang F, Mei L. pH-labile artificial natural killer cells for overcoming tumor drug resistance. J Control Release 2022; 352:450-458. [PMID: 36341929 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.10.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells exert cytotoxic effects against infected or stressed cells, such as tumor cells, without the limitation of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) I. NK cells secrete perforins to form tunnels to mediate the entry of granzyme into target cells. This strategy, selected by natural evolution, provides a feasible method for the delivery of antitumor drugs against intracellular targets, and avoids drug-resistant mechanisms in tumor cells, such as the pumping out of drugs mediated by multidrug resistance. We constructed pH-labile artificial NK cells (ANKC) based on nature to mediate high levels of drugs in tumor cells to overcome tumor drug resistance. Mesoporous silicon nanoparticles (MSNs) modified with benzaldehyde were designed to function as scaffolds for ANKC. Doxorubicin (Dox), a model antitumor drug, was loaded into the pores of MSNs. Melittin, a pore-forming peptide, was utilized as the gate for mesopores with an acid-labile Schiff base linkage. pH-labile ANKC released melittin and Dox in slightly acidic tumor microenvironments. Melittin, like perforin, assembled tunnels on the plasma membrane or endosome, ensuring the intracellular transportation of Dox. Dox, similar to granzyme, induced the apoptosis of tumor cells. The combinational treatment partially eased the drug resistance mechanism, such as pumping out of drugs, by continuous intracellular drug accumulation mediated by melittin pores. The pH-labile ANKC demonstrated significant Dox enrichment in drug-resistant MCF-7/Adr cells and MCF-7/Adr-based xenograft tumors in a mouse model, which eventually contributed to efficient inhibition of the proliferation and growth of MCF-7/Adr tumors. PH-labile ANKC provided a potential strategy to treat drug-resistant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, PR China; Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Zhaoqing Shi
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Nanotechnology for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, PR China
| | - Meitong Ou
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Nanotechnology for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, PR China
| | - Zimu Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, PR China
| | - Miaomiao Luo
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Nanotechnology for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, PR China
| | - Meiying Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, PR China
| | - Xia Dong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Nanotechnology for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, PR China
| | - Li Lu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Nanotechnology for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, PR China
| | - Feng Lv
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Nanotechnology for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, PR China.
| | - Fan Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Nanotechnology for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, PR China.
| | - Lin Mei
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Nanotechnology for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, PR China.
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6
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Giribaldi J, Smith JJ, Schroeder CI. Recent developments in animal venom peptide nanotherapeutics with improved selectivity for cancer cells. Biotechnol Adv 2021; 50:107769. [PMID: 33989705 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2021.107769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Animal venoms are a rich source of bioactive peptides that efficiently modulate key receptors and ion channels involved in cellular excitability to rapidly neutralize their prey or predators. As such, they have been a wellspring of highly useful pharmacological tools for decades. Besides targeting ion channels, some venom peptides exhibit strong cytotoxic activity and preferentially affect cancer over healthy cells. This is unlikely to be driven by an evolutionary impetus, and differences in tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment are probably behind the serendipitous selectivity shown by some venom peptides. However, strategies such as bioconjugation and nanotechnologies are showing potential to improve their selectivity and potency, thereby paving the way to efficiently harness new anticancer mechanisms offered by venom peptides. This review aims to highlight advances in nano- and chemotherapeutic tools and prospective anti-cancer drug leads derived from animal venom peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Giribaldi
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Jennifer J Smith
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Christina I Schroeder
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
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7
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Jansen C, Shimoda LMN, Starkus J, Lange I, Rysavy N, Maaetoft-Udsen K, Tobita C, Stokes AJ, Turner H. In vitro exposure to Hymenoptera venom and constituents activates discrete ionotropic pathways in mast cells. Channels (Austin) 2020; 13:264-286. [PMID: 31237176 PMCID: PMC8670737 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2019.1629225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium entry is central to the functional processes in mast cells and basophils that contribute to the induction and maintenance of inflammatory responses. Mast cells and basophils express an array of calcium channels, which mediate responses to diverse stimuli triggered by small bioactive molecules, physicochemical stimuli and immunological inputs including antigens and direct immune cell interactions. These cells are also highly responsive to certain venoms (such as Hymenoptera envenomations), which cause histamine secretion, cytokine release and an array of pro-inflammatory functional responses. There are gaps in our understanding of the coupling of venom exposure to specific signaling pathways such as activation of calcium channels. In the present study, we performed a current survey of a model mast cell line selected for its pleiotropic responsiveness to multiple pro-inflammatory inputs. As a heterogenous stimulus, Hymenoptera venom activates multiple classes of conductance at the population level but tend to lead to the measurement of only one type of conductance per cell, despite the cell co-expressing multiple channel types. The data show that ICRAC, IARC, and TRPV-like currents are present in the model mast cell populations and respond to venom exposure. We further assessed individual venom components, specifically secretagogues and arachidonic acid, and identified the conductances associated with these stimuli in mast cells. Single-cell calcium assays and immunofluorescence analysis show that there is heterogeneity of channel expression across the cell population, but this heterogeneity does not explain the apparent selectivity for specific channels in response to exposure to venom as a composite stimulus.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Jansen
- a Laboratory of Immunology and Signal Transduction, Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics , Chaminade University , Honolulu , Hawai'I , USA
| | - L M N Shimoda
- a Laboratory of Immunology and Signal Transduction, Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics , Chaminade University , Honolulu , Hawai'I , USA
| | - J Starkus
- a Laboratory of Immunology and Signal Transduction, Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics , Chaminade University , Honolulu , Hawai'I , USA
| | - I Lange
- b Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawai'i at Hilo , Hilo , Hawai'i , USA
| | - N Rysavy
- a Laboratory of Immunology and Signal Transduction, Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics , Chaminade University , Honolulu , Hawai'I , USA
| | - K Maaetoft-Udsen
- a Laboratory of Immunology and Signal Transduction, Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics , Chaminade University , Honolulu , Hawai'I , USA
| | - C Tobita
- a Laboratory of Immunology and Signal Transduction, Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics , Chaminade University , Honolulu , Hawai'I , USA
| | - A J Stokes
- c Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, John A. Burns School of Medicine , University of Hawai'i , Honolulu , Hawai'i , USA
| | - H Turner
- a Laboratory of Immunology and Signal Transduction, Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics , Chaminade University , Honolulu , Hawai'I , USA
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8
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Juhaniewicz-Dębińska J, Dziubak D, Sęk S. Physicochemical Characterization of Daptomycin Interaction with Negatively Charged Lipid Membranes. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2020; 36:5324-5335. [PMID: 32340456 PMCID: PMC7588137 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.0c00716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Daptomycin is known as an effective antibiotic lipopeptide which shows activity against the number of Gram-positive pathogens. Its primary target is the bacterial cell membrane. However, the detailed mechanism of daptomycin action is still subject to debate. In this paper, we have investigated the interactions between lipopeptide and model lipid films composed of negatively charged phosphatidylglycerols and cardiolipin. In order to evaluate the effect of daptomycin on the molecular organization and the properties of lipid assemblies, we have used surface pressure measurements and electrochemical methods combined with atomic force microscopy, quartz crystal microbalance, and surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy. Our results indicate that daptomycin interaction with the lipid membrane is complex. It involves daptomycin aggregation and partial insertion, which in turn affect the charge distribution on both sides of the membrane and may result in a gradient of water chemical potential. The latter can drive the flux of water across the membrane.
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9
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Lee TH, Hall K, Aguilar MI. The Effect of Charge on Melittin-Induced Changes in Membrane Structure and Morphology. Aust J Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/ch19500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The binding of melittin to a range of phospholipid bilayers was studied using dual polarisation interferometry and atomic force microscopy. The phospholipid model membranes included zwitterionic dimyristylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC), together with mixtures of DMPC/dimyristylphosphatidylglycerol (DMPG) and DMPC/DMPG/cholesterol. Melittin caused significant disruption on all bilayers, but differences in morphological changes during binding were different on each membrane. Overall, the results demonstrate that the process of membrane disruption follows distinct structural changes for different lipid mixtures irrespective of the strength of binding to the membrane surface.
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10
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Belluati A, Mikhalevich V, Yorulmaz Avsar S, Daubian D, Craciun I, Chami M, Meier WP, Palivan CG. How Do the Properties of Amphiphilic Polymer Membranes Influence the Functional Insertion of Peptide Pores? Biomacromolecules 2019; 21:701-715. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.9b01416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Belluati
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Viktoria Mikhalevich
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Saziye Yorulmaz Avsar
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Davy Daubian
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ioana Craciun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mohamed Chami
- BioEM Lab, Biozentrum, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wolfgang P. Meier
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia G. Palivan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
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11
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Soliman C, Eastwood S, Truong VK, Ramsland PA, Elbourne A. The membrane effects of melittin on gastric and colorectal cancer. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224028. [PMID: 31622415 PMCID: PMC6797111 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The cytotoxic effects of melittin, a bee-venom peptide, have been widely studied towards cancer cells. Typically, these studies have examined the effect of melittin over extended-time courses (6-24 hours), meaning that immediate cellular interactions have been overlooked. In this work, we demonstrate the rapid effects of melittin on both gastric and colorectal cancer, specifically AGS, COLO205 and HCT-15 cell lines, over a period of 15 minutes. Melittin exhibited a dose dependent effect at 4 hours of treatment, with complete cellular death occurring at the highest dose of 20 μg/mL. Interestingly, when observed at shorter time points, melittin induced cellular changes within seconds; membrane damage was observed as swelling, breakage or blebbing. High-resolution imaging revealed treated cells to be compromised, showing clear change in cellular morphology. After 1 minute of melittin treatment, membrane changes were observed, and intracellular material could be seen expelled from the cells. Overall, these results enhance our understanding of the fast acting anti-cancer effects of melittin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Soliman
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campusm Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah Eastwood
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campusm Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vi Khanh Truong
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campusm Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- Nanobiotechnology Laboratory, RMIT University, Melbourne City Campus, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul A. Ramsland
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campusm Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Immunology, Central Clinical School (Monash University), Alfred Medical Research and Education Precinct, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Surgery Austin Health (University of Melbourne), Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aaron Elbourne
- School of Science, RMIT University, Bundoora West Campusm Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- Nanobiotechnology Laboratory, RMIT University, Melbourne City Campus, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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12
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Li QQ, Chen PG, Hu ZW, Cao Y, Chen LX, Chen YX, Zhao YF, Li YM. Selective inhibition of cancer cells by enzyme-induced gain of function of phosphorylated melittin analogues. Chem Sci 2017; 8:7675-7681. [PMID: 29568430 PMCID: PMC5849211 DOI: 10.1039/c7sc03217j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The selective killing of cancer cells and the avoidance of drug resistance are still difficult challenges in cancer therapy. Here, we report a new strategy that uses enzyme-induced gain of function (EIGF) to regulate the structure and function of phosphorylated melittin analogues (MelAs). Original MelAs have the capacity to disrupt plasma membranes and induce cell death without selectivity. However, phosphorylation of Thr23 on one of the MelAs (MelA2-P) efficiently ameliorated the membrane lysis potency as well as the cytotoxicity for normal mammalian cells. After treatment with alkaline phosphatase (ALP), which is more active in cancer cells than normal cells, MelA2-P restored the pore-forming function around the cancer cells and induced cancer cell death selectively. This mechanism was independent of the receptor proteins and the cell uptake process, which may partially bypass the development of drug resistance in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian-Qian Li
- Key Lab of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology , Department of Chemistry , Tsinghua University , Beijing 100084 , P. R. China . ; ; Tel: +86-10-62796197
| | - Pu-Guang Chen
- Key Lab of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology , Department of Chemistry , Tsinghua University , Beijing 100084 , P. R. China . ; ; Tel: +86-10-62796197
| | - Zhi-Wen Hu
- Key Lab of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology , Department of Chemistry , Tsinghua University , Beijing 100084 , P. R. China . ; ; Tel: +86-10-62796197
| | - Yuan Cao
- Key Lab of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology , Department of Chemistry , Tsinghua University , Beijing 100084 , P. R. China . ; ; Tel: +86-10-62796197
| | - Liang-Xiao Chen
- Key Lab of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology , Department of Chemistry , Tsinghua University , Beijing 100084 , P. R. China . ; ; Tel: +86-10-62796197
| | - Yong-Xiang Chen
- Key Lab of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology , Department of Chemistry , Tsinghua University , Beijing 100084 , P. R. China . ; ; Tel: +86-10-62796197
| | - Yu-Fen Zhao
- Key Lab of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology , Department of Chemistry , Tsinghua University , Beijing 100084 , P. R. China . ; ; Tel: +86-10-62796197
| | - Yan-Mei Li
- Key Lab of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology , Department of Chemistry , Tsinghua University , Beijing 100084 , P. R. China . ; ; Tel: +86-10-62796197
- Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders , Beijing 100069 , P. R. China
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13
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Piantanida L, Bolt HL, Rozatian N, Cobb SL, Voïtchovsky K. Ions Modulate Stress-Induced Nanotexture in Supported Fluid Lipid Bilayers. Biophys J 2017; 113:426-439. [PMID: 28746853 PMCID: PMC5529180 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.05.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Revised: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Most plasma membranes comprise a large number of different molecules including lipids and proteins. In the standard fluid mosaic model, the membrane function is effected by proteins whereas lipids are largely passive and serve solely in the membrane cohesion. Here we show, using supported 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine lipid bilayers in different saline solutions, that ions can locally induce ordering of the lipid molecules within the otherwise fluid bilayer when the latter is supported. This nanoordering exhibits a characteristic length scale of ∼20 nm, and manifests itself clearly when mechanical stress is applied to the membrane. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements in aqueous solutions containing NaCl, KCl, CaCl2, and Tris buffer show that the magnitude of the effect is strongly ion-specific, with Ca2+ and Tris, respectively, promoting and reducing stress-induced nanotexturing of the membrane. The AFM results are complemented by fluorescence recovery after photobleaching experiments, which reveal an inverse correlation between the tendency for molecular nanoordering and the diffusion coefficient within the bilayer. Control AFM experiments on other lipids and at different temperatures support the hypothesis that the nanotexturing is induced by reversible, localized gel-like solidification of the membrane. These results suggest that supported fluid phospholipid bilayers are not homogenous at the nanoscale, but specific ions are able to locally alter molecular organization and mobility, and spatially modulate the membrane’s properties on a length scale of ∼20 nm. To illustrate this point, AFM was used to follow the adsorption of the membrane-penetrating antimicrobial peptide Temporin L in different solutions. The results confirm that the peptides do not absorb randomly, but follow the ion-induced spatial modulation of the membrane. Our results suggest that ionic effects have a significant impact for passively modulating the local properties of biological membranes, when in contact with a support such as the cytoskeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Piantanida
- Department of Physics, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah L Bolt
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
| | - Neshat Rozatian
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
| | - Steven L Cobb
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
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Pan J, Khadka NK. Kinetic Defects Induced by Melittin in Model Lipid Membranes: A Solution Atomic Force Microscopy Study. J Phys Chem B 2016; 120:4625-34. [PMID: 27167473 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.6b02332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative characterization of membrane defects (pores) is important for elucidating the molecular basis of many membrane-active peptides. We study kinetic defects induced by melittin in vesicular and planar lipid bilayers. Fluorescence spectroscopy measurements indicate that melittin induces time-dependent calcein leakage. Solution atomic force microscopy (AFM) is used to visualize melittin-induced membrane defects. After initial equilibration, the most probable defect radius is ∼3.8 nm in 1,2-dilauroyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DLPC) bilayers. Unexpectedly, defects become larger with longer incubation, accompanied by substantial shape transformation. The initial defect radius is ∼4.7 nm in 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC) bilayers. Addition of 30 mol % cholesterol to DOPC bilayers suppresses defect kinetics, although the inhibitory impact is negated by longer incubation. Overall, the kinetic rate of defect development follows DLPC > DOPC > DOPC/cholesterol. Kinetic defects are also observed when anionic lipids are present. Based on the observation that defects can occupy as large as 40% of the bilayer surface, we propose a kinetic defect growth model. We also study the effect of melittin on the phase behavior of DOPC/egg-sphingomyelin/cholesterol bilayers. We find that melittin initially suppresses or eliminates liquid-ordered (Lo) domains; Lo domains gradually emerge and become the dominant species with longer incubation; and defects in phase-coexisting bilayers have a most probable radius of ∼5 nm and are exclusively localized in the liquid-disordered (Ld) phase. Our experimental data highlight that melittin-induced membrane defects are not static; conversely, spontaneous defect growth is intrinsically associated with membrane permeabilization exerted by melittin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianjun Pan
- Department of Physics, University of South Florida , Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - Nawal K Khadka
- Department of Physics, University of South Florida , Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
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15
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Sun D, Forsman J, Woodward CE. Multistep Molecular Dynamics Simulations Identify the Highly Cooperative Activity of Melittin in Recognizing and Stabilizing Membrane Pores. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2015; 31:9388-9401. [PMID: 26267389 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.5b01995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The prototypical antimicrobial peptide, melittin, is well-known for its ability to induce pores in zwitterionic model lipid membranes. However, the mechanism by which melittin accomplishes this is not fully understood. We have conducted all-atom and coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations which suggest that melittin employs a highly cooperative mechanism for the induction of both small and large membrane pores. The process by which this peptide induces membrane pores appears to be driven by its affinity to membrane defects via its N-terminus region. In our simulations, a membrane defect was deliberately created through either lipid flip-flop or the reorientation of one adsorbed melittin peptide. In a cooperative response, other melittin molecules also inserted their N-termini into the created defect, thus lowering the overall free energy. The insertion of these peptide molecules ultimately allowed the defect to develop into a small transmembrane pore, with an estimated diameter of ∼1.5 nm and a lifetime of the order of tens of milliseconds. In the presence of a finite membrane tension, we show that this small pore can act as a nucleation site for the stochastic rupture of the lipid bilayer, so as to create a much larger pore. We found that a threshold membrane tension of 25 mN/m was needed to create a ruptured pore. Furthermore, by actively accumulating at its edge, adsorbed peptides are able to cooperatively stabilize this larger pore. The defect-mediated pore formation mechanism revealed in this work may also apply to other amphipathic membrane-active peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delin Sun
- School of Physical, Environmental and Mathematical Sciences, University of New South Wales , Canberra ACT 2600, Australia
| | - Jan Forsman
- Theoretical Chemistry, Chemical Centre, Lund University , P.O. Box 124, S-221 00 Lund, Sweden
| | - Clifford E Woodward
- School of Physical, Environmental and Mathematical Sciences, University of New South Wales , Canberra ACT 2600, Australia
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16
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Pirrone GF, Vernon BC, Kent MS, Engen JR. Hydrogen Exchange Mass Spectrometry of Proteins at Langmuir Monolayers. Anal Chem 2015; 87:7022-9. [PMID: 26134943 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.5b01724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogen exchange (HX) mass spectrometry (MS) is valuable for providing conformational information for proteins/peptides that are very difficult to analyze with other methods such as peripheral membrane proteins and peptides that interact with membranes. We developed a new type of HX MS measurement that integrates Langmuir monolayers. A lipid monolayer was generated, a peptide or protein associated with it, and then the monolayer-associated peptide or protein was exposed to deuterium. The deuterated species was recovered from the monolayer, digested, and deuterium incorporation monitored by MS. Test peptides showed that deuterium recovery in an optimized protocol was equivalent to deuterium recovery in conventional solution HX MS. The reproducibility of the measurements was high, despite the requirement of generating a new monolayer for each deuterium labeling time. We validated that known conformational changes in the presence of a monolayer/membrane could be observed with the peptide melittin and the myristoylated protein Arf-1. Results in an accompanying paper show that the method can reveal details of conformational changes in a protein (HIV-1 Nef), which adopts a different conformation, depending on whether or not it is able to insert into the lipid layer. Overall, the HX MS Langmuir monolayer method provided new and meaningful conformational information for proteins that associate with lipid layers. The combination of HX MS results with neutron or X-ray reflection of the same proteins in Langmuir monolayers can be more informative than the isolated use of either method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory F Pirrone
- †Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Ave., Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
| | - Briana C Vernon
- ‡Bioenergy and Defense Technologies, Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87185, United States
| | - Michael S Kent
- ‡Bioenergy and Defense Technologies, Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87185, United States
| | - John R Engen
- †Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Ave., Boston, Massachusetts 02115-5000, United States
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