1
|
Maani Z, Rahbarnia L, Bahadori A, Chollou KM, Farajnia S. Spotlight on HIV-derived TAT peptide as a molecular shuttle in drug delivery. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104191. [PMID: 39322176 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104191] [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: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 09/08/2024] [Accepted: 09/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
HIV-derived TAT peptide, with a high penetration rate into cells and its nonimmunogenic and minimally toxic nature, is an attractive tool for enhancing the biodistribution of drugs and their systemic administration. Despite the presence of numerous promising preclinical investigations illustrating its capability to specifically target distinct tissues and deliver a diverse range of pharmacological agents, the efficacy of various clinical trials incorporating TAT has been impeded by several considerable obstacles. Hence, there is much need for an in-depth investigation concerning the application of TAT in drug delivery mechanisms. In this review, we have elucidated the structure of TAT and its utility in the proficient delivery of various types of bioactive molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Maani
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Leila Rahbarnia
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Ali Bahadori
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Sarab Faculty of Medical Sciences, Sarab, Iran
| | | | - Safar Farajnia
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Korshoj LE, Kielian T. Bacterial single-cell RNA sequencing captures biofilm transcriptional heterogeneity and differential responses to immune pressure. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.28.601229. [PMID: 38979200 PMCID: PMC11230364 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.28.601229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Biofilm formation is an important mechanism of survival and persistence for many bacterial pathogens. These multicellular communities contain subpopulations of cells that display vast metabolic and transcriptional diversity along with high recalcitrance to antibiotics and host immune defenses. Investigating the complex heterogeneity within biofilm has been hindered by the lack of a sensitive and high-throughput method to assess stochastic transcriptional activity and regulation between bacterial subpopulations, which requires single-cell resolution. We have developed an optimized bacterial single-cell RNA sequencing method, BaSSSh-seq, to study Staphylococcus aureus diversity during biofilm growth and transcriptional adaptations following immune cell exposure. We validated the ability of BaSSSh-seq to capture extensive transcriptional heterogeneity during biofilm compared to planktonic growth. Application of new computational tools revealed transcriptional regulatory networks across the heterogeneous biofilm subpopulations and identification of gene sets that were associated with a trajectory from planktonic to biofilm growth. BaSSSh-seq also detected alterations in biofilm metabolism, stress response, and virulence that were tailored to distinct immune cell populations. This work provides an innovative platform to explore biofilm dynamics at single-cell resolution, unlocking the potential for identifying biofilm adaptations to environmental signals and immune pressure.
Collapse
|
3
|
Abdulrehman T, Qadri S, Haik Y, Sultan A, Skariah S, Kumar S, Mendoza Z, Yadav KK, Titus A, Khader S. Advances in the targeted theragnostics of osteomyelitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:288. [PMID: 38834761 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-04015-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Bone infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus may lead to an inflammatory condition called osteomyelitis, which results in progressive bone loss. Biofilm formation, intracellular survival, and the ability of S. aureus to evade the immune response result in recurrent and persistent infections that present significant challenges in treating osteomyelitis. Moreover, people with diabetes are prone to osteomyelitis due to their compromised immune system, and in life-threatening cases, this may lead to amputation of the affected limbs. In most cases, bone infections are localized; thus, early detection and targeted therapy may prove fruitful in treating S. aureus-related bone infections and preventing the spread of the infection. Specific S. aureus components or overexpressed tissue biomarkers in bone infections could be targeted to deliver active therapeutics, thereby reducing drug dosage and systemic toxicity. Compounds like peptides and antibodies can specifically bind to S. aureus or overexpressed disease markers and combining these with therapeutics or imaging agents can facilitate targeted delivery to the site of infection. The effectiveness of photodynamic therapy and hyperthermia therapy can be increased by the addition of targeting molecules to these therapies enabling site-specific therapy delivery. Strategies like host-directed therapy focus on modulating the host immune mechanisms or signaling pathways utilized by S. aureus for therapeutic efficacy. Targeted therapeutic strategies in conjunction with standard surgical care could be potential treatment strategies for S. aureus-associated osteomyelitis to overcome antibiotic resistance and disease recurrence. This review paper presents information about the targeting strategies and agents for the therapy and diagnostic imaging of S. aureus bone infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tahir Abdulrehman
- eHealth Program, DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Health Policy, Management and Informatics, Allied Health, Credit Valley Hospital, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Shahnaz Qadri
- School of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, USA.
| | - Yousef Haik
- Department of Mechanical & Nuclear Engineering, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE.
| | - Ali Sultan
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sini Skariah
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shourya Kumar
- School of Engineering Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zachary Mendoza
- School of Engineering Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kamlesh K Yadav
- School of Engineering Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anoop Titus
- Department of Preventive Cardiology, Houston Methodist, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shameer Khader
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
El-Fateh M, Chatterjee A, Zhao X. A systematic review of peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) with antibacterial activities: Efficacy, potential and challenges. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2024; 63:107083. [PMID: 38185398 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2024.107083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are synthetic molecules that are like DNA/RNA, but with different building blocks. PNAs target and bind to mRNAs and disrupt the function of a targeted gene, hence they have been studied as potential antibacterials. The aim of this systematic review was to provide an in-depth analysis of the current status of PNAs as antibacterial agents, define the characteristics of the effective PNA constructs, and address the gap in advancing PNAs to become clinically competent agents. Following the PRISMA model, four electronic databases were searched: Web of Science, PubMed, SciFinder and Scopus. A total of 627 articles published between 1994 and 2023 were found. After screening and a rigorous selection process using explicit inclusion and exclusion criteria, 65 scientific articles were selected, containing 656 minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) data. The antibacterial activity of PNAs was assessed against 20 bacterial species. The most studied Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria were Escherichia coli (n=266) and Staphylococcus aureus (n=53), respectively. In addition, the effect of PNA design, including construct length, binding location, and carrier agents, on antibacterial activity was shown. Finally, antibacterial test models to assess the inhibitory effects of PNAs were examined, emphasising gaps and prospects. This systematic review provides a comprehensive assessment of the potential of PNAs as antibacterial agents and offers valuable insights for researchers and clinicians seeking novel therapeutic strategies in the context of increasing rates of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed El-Fateh
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada, H9X3V9; Department of Hygiene and Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, 35516, El-Dakhelia, Egypt; Antimicrobial Regeneration Consortium Labs, Louisville, CO, 80027, USA
| | - Anushree Chatterjee
- Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA; Antimicrobial Regeneration Consortium Labs, Louisville, CO, 80027, USA
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada, H9X3V9; Antimicrobial Regeneration Consortium Labs, Louisville, CO, 80027, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chen Y, Jiang Y, Xue T, Cheng J. Strategies for the eradication of intracellular bacterial pathogens. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:1115-1130. [PMID: 38284808 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm01498c] [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: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Intracellular pathogens affect a significant portion of world population and cause millions of deaths each year. They can invade host cells and survive inside them and are extremely resistant to immune systems and antibiotics. Current treatments have limitations, and therefore, new effective therapies are needed to combat this ongoing health challenge. Active research efforts have been made to develop many new strategies to eradicate these intracellular pathogens. In this review, we focus on the intracellular bacterial pathogens and first introduce several representative intracellular bacteria and the diseases they cause. We then discuss the challenges in eradicating these bacteria and summarize the current therapeutics for intracellular bacteria. Finally, recent advances in intracellular bacteria eradication are highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.
| | - Yunjiang Jiang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- BayRay Innovation Center, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518071, China
| | - Tianrui Xue
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Jianjun Cheng
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
- Biomaterials and Drug Delivery Laboratory, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pal R, Seleem MN. Antisense inhibition of RNA polymerase α subunit of Clostridioides difficile. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0175523. [PMID: 37772833 PMCID: PMC10581251 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01755-23] [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: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile, the causative agent of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and pseudomembranous colitis, has emerged as a major enteric pathogen in recent years. Antibiotic treatment perturbs the gut microbiome homeostasis, which facilitates the colonization and proliferation of the pathogen in the host intestine. Paradoxically, the clinical repertoire for C. difficile infection includes the antibiotics vancomycin and/or fidaxomicin. The current therapies do not address the perturbed gut microbiome, which supports the recurrence of infection after cessation of antibiotic therapy. Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are novel alternatives to traditional antimicrobial therapy capable of forming strong and stable complexes with RNA and DNA, thus permitting targeted inhibition of specific genes. Here, we report a novel PNA that can target the RNA polymerase α subunit (rpoA) in C. difficile. The designed anti-rpoA construct inhibited clinical isolates of C. difficile (minimum inhibitory concentration values ranged between 4 and 8 µM) and exhibited bactericidal activity. Furthermore, silencing of the rpoA gene suppressed the expression of genes that encode virulence factors [toxin A (tcdA), toxin B (tcdB)] in C. difficile, and the gene that encodes the transcription factor stage 0 sporulation protein (spoOA). Interestingly, the efficacy of the designed PNA conjugate remained unaffected even when tested at different pH levels and against a high inoculum of the pathogen. The rpoA-TAT conjugate was very specific against C. difficile and did not inhibit members of the beneficial gut microflora. Taken altogether, our study confirms that the rpoA gene can be a promising narrow-spectrum therapeutic target to curb C. difficile infection. IMPORTANCE The widespread use of antibiotics can destroy beneficial intestinal microflora, opening the door for spores of Clostridioides difficile to run rampant in the digestive system, causing life-threatening diarrhea. Alternative approaches to target this deadly pathogen are urgently needed. We utilized targeted therapeutics called peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) to inhibit gene expression in C. difficile. Inhibition of the RNA polymerase α subunit gene (rpoA) by PNA was found to be lethal for C. difficile and could also disarm its virulence factors. Additionally, antisense inhibition of the C. difficile rpoA gene did not impact healthy microflora. We also propose a novel approach to manipulate gene expression in C. difficile without the need for established genetic tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rusha Pal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Mohamed N. Seleem
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
- Center for Emerging Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tekintaş Y, Temel A. Antisense oligonucleotides: a promising therapeutic option against infectious diseases. NUCLEOSIDES, NUCLEOTIDES & NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 43:1-39. [PMID: 37395450 DOI: 10.1080/15257770.2023.2228841] [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: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases have been one of the biggest health problems of humanity for centuries. Nucleic acid-based therapeutics have received attention in recent years with their effectiveness in the treatment of various infectious diseases and vaccine development studies. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the basic properties underlying the mechanism of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), their applications, and their challenges. The efficient delivery of ASOs is the greatest challenge for their therapeutic success, but this problem is overcome with new-generation antisense molecules developed with chemical modifications. The types, carrier molecules, and gene regions targeted by sequences have been summarized in detail. Research and development of antisense therapy is still in its infancy; however, gene silencing therapies appear to have the potential for faster and longer-lasting activity than conventional treatment strategies. On the other hand, realizing the potential of antisense therapy will require a large initial economic investment to ascertain the pharmacological properties and learn how to optimize them. The ability of ASOs to be rapidly designed and synthesized to target different microbes can reduce drug discovery time from 6 years to 1 year. Since ASOs are not particularly affected by resistance mechanisms, they come to the fore in the fight against antimicrobial resistance. The design-based flexibility of ASOs has enabled it to be used for different types of microorganisms/genes and successful in vitro and in vivo results have been revealed. The current review summarized a comprehensive understanding of ASO therapy in combating bacterial and viral infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yamaç Tekintaş
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Aybala Temel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Türkiye
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kumar V, Wahane A, Gupta A, Manautou JE, Bahal R. Multivalent Lactobionic Acid and N-Acetylgalactosamine-Conjugated Peptide Nucleic Acids for Efficient In Vivo Targeting of Hepatocytes. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2202859. [PMID: 36636995 PMCID: PMC10175146 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202202859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are used/applied in various studies to target genomic DNA and RNA to modulate gene expression. Non-specific targeting and rapid elimination always remain a challenge for PNA-based applications. Here, the synthesis, characterization, in vitro and in vivo study of di lactobionic acid (diLBA) and tris N-acetyl galactosamine (tGalNAc) conjugated PNAs for liver-targeted delivery are reported. For proof of concept, diLBA, and tGalNAc conjugated PNAs (anti-miR-122 PNAs) were synthesized to target microRNA-122 (miR-122) which is over-expressed in the hepatic tissue. Different lengths of anti-miR-122 PNAs conjugated with diLBA and tGalNAc are tested. Cell culture and in vivo analyses to determine biodistribution, efficacy, and toxicity profile are performed. This work indicates that diLBA conjugates show significant retention in hepatocytes in addition to tGalNAc conjugates after in vivo delivery. Full-length PNA conjugates show significant downregulation of miR-122 levels and subsequent de-repression of its downstream targets with no evidence of toxicity. The results provide a robust framework for ligand-conjugated delivery systems for PNAs that can be explored for broader biomedical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Aniket Wahane
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Anisha Gupta
- School of Pharmacy, University of Saint Joseph, West Hartford, CT, 06117, USA
| | - José E Manautou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Raman Bahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Barkowsky G, Abt C, Pöhner I, Bieda A, Hammerschmidt S, Jacob A, Kreikemeyer B, Patenge N. Antimicrobial Activity of Peptide-Coupled Antisense Peptide Nucleic Acids in Streptococcus pneumoniae. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0049722. [PMID: 36321914 PMCID: PMC9784828 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00497-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common cause of community-acquired pneumonia and is responsible for multiple other infectious diseases, such as meningitis and otitis media, in children. Resistance to penicillins, macrolides, and fluoroquinolones is increasing and, since the introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs), vaccine serotypes have been replaced by non-vaccine serotypes. Antisense peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) have been shown to reduce the growth of several pathogenic bacteria in various infection models. PNAs are frequently coupled to cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) to improve spontaneous cellular PNA uptake. In this study, different CPPs were investigated for their capability to support translocation of antisense PNAs into S. pneumoniae. HIV-1 TAT- and (RXR)4XB-coupled antisense PNAs efficiently reduced the viability of S. pneumoniae strains TIGR4 and D39 in vitro. Two essential genes, gyrA and rpoB, were used as targets for antisense PNAs. Overall, the antimicrobial activity of anti-gyrA PNAs was higher than that of anti-rpoB PNAs. Target gene transcription levels in S. pneumoniae were reduced following antisense PNA treatment. The effect of HIV-1 TAT- and (RXR)4XB-anti-gyrA PNAs on pneumococcal survival was also studied in vivo using an insect infection model. Treatment increased the survival of infected Galleria mellonella larvae. Our results represent a proof of principle and may provide a basis for the development of efficient antisense molecules for treatment of S. pneumoniae infections. IMPORTANCE Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common cause of community-acquired pneumonia and is responsible for the deaths of up to 2 million children each year. Antibiotic resistance and strain replacement by non-vaccine serotypes are growing problems. For this reason, S. pneumoniae has been added to the WHO "global priority list" of antibiotic-resistant bacteria for which novel antimicrobials are most urgently needed. In this study, we investigated whether CPP-coupled antisense PNAs show antibacterial activity in S. pneumoniae. We demonstrated that HIV-1 TAT- and (RXR)4XB-coupled antisense PNAs were able to kill S. pneumoniae in vitro. The specificity of the antimicrobial effect was verified by reduced target gene transcription levels in S. pneumoniae. Moreover, CPP-antisense PNA treatment increased the survival rate of infected Galleria mellonella larvae in vivo. Based on these results, we believe that efficient antisense PNAs can be developed for the treatment of S. pneumoniae infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gina Barkowsky
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Corina Abt
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Irina Pöhner
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Adam Bieda
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Sven Hammerschmidt
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Infection Biology, Interfaculty Institute for Genetics and Functional Genomics, Center for Functional Genomics of Microbes, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Anette Jacob
- Peps4LS GmbH, Heidelberg, Germany
- Functional Genome Analysis, Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bernd Kreikemeyer
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Nadja Patenge
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Geng J, Xia X, Teng L, Wang L, Chen L, Guo X, Belingon B, Li J, Feng X, Li X, Shang W, Wan Y, Wang H. Emerging landscape of cell-penetrating peptide-mediated nucleic acid delivery and their utility in imaging, gene-editing, and RNA-sequencing. J Control Release 2022; 341:166-183. [PMID: 34822907 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.11.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The safety issues like immunogenicity and unacceptable cancer risk of viral vectors for DNA/mRNA vaccine delivery necessitate the development of non-viral vectors with no toxicity. Among the non-viral strategies, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) have been a topic of interest recently because of their ability to cross plasma membranes and facilitate nucleic acids delivery both in vivo and in vitro. In addition to the application in the field of gene vaccine and gene therapy, CPPs based nucleic acids delivery have been proved by its potential application like gene editing, RNA-sequencing, and imaging. Here, we focus on summarizing the recent applications and progress of CPPs-mediated nucleic acids delivery and discuss the current problems and solutions in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingping Geng
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Xuan Xia
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Lin Teng
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The First Clinical Medical College of China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Lidan Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Linlin Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Affiliated Ren He Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Xiangli Guo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Bonn Belingon
- Institute of Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21210, USA
| | - Jason Li
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21210, USA
| | - Xuemei Feng
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Xianghui Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Wendou Shang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Yingying Wan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China
| | - Hu Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, China Three Gorges University, Yichang 443002, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chen W, Dong B, Liu W, Liu Z. Recent Advances in Peptide Nucleic Acids as Antibacterial Agents. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:1104-1125. [PMID: 32484766 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666200602132504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the slow progress in searching for new antimicrobial agents makes it hard to treat bacterial infections and cause problems for the healthcare system worldwide, including high costs, prolonged hospitalizations, and increased mortality. Therefore, the discovery of effective antibacterial agents is of great importance. One attractive alternative is antisense peptide nucleic acid (PNA), which inhibits or eliminates gene expression by binding to the complementary messenger RNA (mRNA) sequence of essential genes or the accessible and functionally important regions of the ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Following 30 years of development, PNAs have played an extremely important role in the treatment of Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and acidfast bacteria due to their desirable stability of hybrid complex with target RNA, the strong affinity for target mRNA/rRNA, and the stability against nucleases. PNA-based antisense antibiotics can strongly inhibit the growth of pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant bacteria in a sequence-specific and dose-dependent manner at micromolar concentrations. However, several fundamental challenges, such as intracellular delivery, solubility, physiological stability, and clearance still need to be addressed before PNAs become broadly applicable in clinical settings. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in PNAs as antibacterial agents and the challenges that need to be overcome in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Hunan Key Laboratory for Super Microstructure and Ultrafast Process, School of Physics and Electronics Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| | - Bo Dong
- Hunan Key Laboratory for Super Microstructure and Ultrafast Process, School of Physics and Electronics Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| | - Wenen Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Zhengchun Liu
- Hunan Key Laboratory for Super Microstructure and Ultrafast Process, School of Physics and Electronics Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Barkowsky G, Kreikemeyer B, Patenge N. Validation of Suitable Carrier Molecules and Target Genes for Antisense Therapy Using Peptide-Coupled Peptide Nucleic Acids (PNAs) in Streptococci. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2136:339-345. [PMID: 32430835 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0467-0_27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Antisense peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) targeting genes involved in metabolism or virulence are a possible means to treat infections or to investigate pathogenic bacteria. Potential targets include essential genes, virulence factor genes, or antibiotic resistance genes. For efficient cellular uptake, PNAs can be coupled to cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs). CPPs are peptides that serve as molecular transporters and are characterized by a comparably low cytotoxicity. So far, there is only limited information about CPPs that mediate PNA uptake by Gram-positive bacteria. Here, we describe two methods to identify suitable CPP-antisense PNA conjugates, novel carrier molecules, and efficient target genes for streptococcal species and to evaluate their antimicrobial efficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gina Barkowsky
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Bernd Kreikemeyer
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Nadja Patenge
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jiang Y, Han M, Bo Y, Feng Y, Li W, Wu JR, Song Z, Zhao Z, Tan Z, Chen Y, Xue T, Fu Z, Kuo SH, Lau GW, Luijten E, Cheng J. "Metaphilic" Cell-Penetrating Polypeptide-Vancomycin Conjugate Efficiently Eradicates Intracellular Bacteria via a Dual Mechanism. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2020; 6:2267-2276. [PMID: 33376787 PMCID: PMC7760462 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.0c00893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Infections by intracellular pathogens are difficult to treat because of the poor accessibility of antibiotics to the pathogens encased by host cell membranes. As such, a strategy that can improve the membrane permeability of antibiotics would significantly increase their efficiency against the intracellular pathogens. Here, we report the design of an adaptive, metaphilic cell-penetrating polypeptide (CPP)-antibiotic conjugate (VPP-G) that can effectively eradicate the intracellular bacteria both in vitro and in vivo. VPP-G was synthesized by attaching vancomycin to a highly membrane-penetrative guanidinium-functionalized metaphilic CPP. VPP-G effectively kills not only extracellular but also far more challenging intracellular pathogens, such as S. aureus, methicillin-resistant S. aureus, and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci. VPP-G enters the host cell via a unique metaphilic membrane penetration mechanism and kills intracellular bacteria through disruption of both cell wall biosynthesis and membrane integrity. This dual antimicrobial mechanism of VPP-G prevents bacteria from developing drug resistance and could also potentially kill dormant intracellular bacteria. VPP-G effectively eradicates MRSA in vivo, significantly outperforming vancomycin, which represents one of the most effective intracellular antibacterial agents reported so far. This strategy can be easily adapted to develop other conjugates against different intracellular pathogens by attaching different antibiotics to these highly membrane-penetrative metaphilic CPPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunjiang Jiang
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Ming Han
- Applied Physics Graduate Program, Department of Materials Science and Engineering,Department of Engineering
Sciences and Applied Mathematics, Department of Chemistry, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Chicago
Materials Research Center, University of
Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Yang Bo
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Yujun Feng
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Wenming Li
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Jason Ren Wu
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Ziyuan Song
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Zihao Zhao
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Zhengzhong Tan
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Yingying Chen
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Tianrui Xue
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Zihuan Fu
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Shanny Hsuan Kuo
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Gee W. Lau
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Erik Luijten
- Applied Physics Graduate Program, Department of Materials Science and Engineering,Department of Engineering
Sciences and Applied Mathematics, Department of Chemistry, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Jianjun Cheng
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Beckman Institute for Advanced
Science and Technology, Department of Bioegineering, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Pifer R, Greenberg DE. Antisense antibacterial compounds. Transl Res 2020; 223:89-106. [PMID: 32522669 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2020.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Extensive antibiotic use combined with poor historical drug stewardship practices have created a medical crisis in which once treatable bacterial infections are now increasingly unmanageable. To combat this, new antibiotics will need to be developed and safeguarded. An emerging class of antibiotics based upon nuclease-stable antisense technologies has proven valuable in preclinical testing against a variety of bacterial pathogens. This review describes the current state of development of antisense-based antibiotics, the mechanisms thus far employed by these compounds, and possible future avenues of research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reed Pifer
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - David E Greenberg
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas; Department of Microbiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Goltermann L, Nielsen PE. PNA Antisense Targeting in Bacteria: Determination of Antibacterial Activity (MIC) of PNA-Peptide Conjugates. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2105:231-239. [PMID: 32088874 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0243-0_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Antisense PNA-peptide conjugates targeting essential bacterial genes have shown interesting potential for discovery of novel precision antibiotics. In this context, the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay is used to assess and compare the antimicrobial activity of natural as well as synthetic antimicrobial compounds. Here, we describe the determination of the minimal inhibitory concentration of peptide-PNA conjugates against Escherichia coli. This method can be expanded to include minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) determination and kill-curve kinetics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lise Goltermann
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Peter E Nielsen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Barkowsky G, Lemster AL, Pappesch R, Jacob A, Krüger S, Schröder A, Kreikemeyer B, Patenge N. Influence of Different Cell-Penetrating Peptides on the Antimicrobial Efficiency of PNAs in Streptococcus pyogenes. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 18:444-454. [PMID: 31655262 PMCID: PMC6831891 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes is an exclusively human pathogen causing a wide range of clinical manifestations from mild superficial infections to severe, life-threatening, invasive diseases. S. pyogenes is consistently susceptible toward penicillin, but therapeutic failure of penicillin treatment has been reported frequently. At the same time, streptococcal resistance to alternative antibiotics, e.g., macrolides, is common. To reduce the application of antibiotics for treatment of S. pyogenes infections, it is mandatory to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Antisense peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are synthetic DNA derivatives widely applied for hybridization-based microbial diagnostics. They have a high potential as therapeutic agents, because PNA antisense targeting of essential genes was shown to reduce growth of several pathogenic bacterial species. Spontaneous cellular uptake of PNAs is restricted in eukaryotes and in bacteria. To overcome this problem, PNAs can be coupled to cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) that support PNA translocation over the cell membrane. In bacteria, the efficiency of CPP-mediated PNA uptake is species specific. Previously, HIV-1 transactivator of transcription (HIV-1 TAT) peptide-coupled anti-gyrA PNA was shown to inhibit growth of S. pyogenes. Here, we investigate the effect of 18 CPP-coupled anti-gyrA PNAs on S. pyogenes growth and virulence. HIV-1 TAT, oligolysine (K8), and (RXR)4XB peptide-coupled anti-gyrA PNAs efficiently abolished bacterial growth in vitro. Consistently, treatment with these three CPP-PNAs increased survival of larvae in a Galleria mellonella infection model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gina Barkowsky
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Lemster
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Roberto Pappesch
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Anette Jacob
- Peps4LS GmbH, INF 583, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Functional Genome Analysis, Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Selina Krüger
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Anne Schröder
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Bernd Kreikemeyer
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Nadja Patenge
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hansen AM, Bonke G, Hogendorf WFJ, Björkling F, Nielsen J, Kongstad KT, Zabicka D, Tomczak M, Urbas M, Nielsen PE, Franzyk H. Microwave-assisted solid-phase synthesis of antisense acpP peptide nucleic acid-peptide conjugates active against colistin- and tigecycline-resistant E. coli and K. pneumoniae. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 168:134-145. [PMID: 30807888 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Recent discovery of potent antibacterial antisense PNA-peptide conjugates encouraged development of a fast and efficient synthesis protocol that facilitates structure-activity studies. The use of an Fmoc/Boc protection scheme for both PNA monomers and amino acid building blocks in combination with microwave-assisted solid-phase synthesis proved to be a convenient procedure for continuous assembly of antisense PNA-peptide conjugates. A validated antisense PNA oligomer (CTCATACTCT; targeting mRNA of the acpP gene) was linked to N-terminally modified drosocin (i.e., RXR-PRPYSPRPTSHPRPIRV; X = aminohexanoic acid) or to a truncated Pip1 peptide (i.e., RXRRXR-IKILFQNRRMKWKK; X = aminohexanoic acid), and determination of the antibacterial effects of the resulting conjugates allowed assessment of the influence of different linkers as well as differences between the L- and D-forms of the peptides. The drosocin-derived compound without a linker moiety exhibited highest antibacterial activity against both wild-type Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae (MICs in the range 2-4 μg/mL ∼ 0.3-0.7 μM), while analogues displaying an ethylene glycol (eg1) moiety or a polar maleimide linker also possessed activity toward wild-type K. pneumoniae (MICs of 4-8 μg/mL ∼ 0.6-1.3 μM). Against two colistin-resistant E. coli strains the linker-deficient compound proved most potent (with MICs in the range 2-4 μg/mL ∼ 0.3-0.7 μM). The truncated all-L Pip1 peptide had moderate inherent activity against E. coli, and this was unaltered or reduced upon conjugation to the antisense PNA oligomer. By contrast, this peptide was 8-fold less potent against K. pneumoniae, but in this case some PNA-peptide conjugates exhibited potent antisense activity (MICs of 2-8 μg/mL ∼ 0.3-1.2 μM). Most interestingly, the antibacterial activity of the D-form peptide itself was 2- to 16-fold higher than that of the L-form, even for the colistin- and tigecycline-resistant E. coli strains (MIC of 1-2 μg/mL ∼ 0.25-0.5 μM). Low activity was found for conjugates with a two-mismatch PNA sequence corroborating an antisense mode of action. Conjugates containing a D-form peptide were also significantly less active. In conclusion, we have designed and synthesized antisense PNA-drosocin conjugates with potent antibacterial activity against colistin- and tigecycline-resistant E. coli and K. pneumonia without concomitant hemolytic properties. In addition, a truncated D-form of Pip1 was identified as a peptide exhibiting potent activity against both wild-type and multidrug-resistant E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and A. baumannii (MICs within the range 1-4 μg/mL ∼ 0.25-1 μM) as well as toward wild-type Staphylococcus aureus (MIC of 2-4 μg/mL ∼ 0.5-1.0 μM).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mette Hansen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Jagtvej 162, DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Gitte Bonke
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Jagtvej 162, DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Wouter Frederik Johan Hogendorf
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Jagtvej 162, DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Fredrik Björkling
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Jagtvej 162, DK-2100, Denmark
| | - John Nielsen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Jagtvej 162, DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Kenneth T Kongstad
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Jagtvej 162, DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Dorota Zabicka
- Department of Epidemiology and Clinical Microbiology, National Medicines Institute, ul. Chełmska 30/34, 00-725, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Tomczak
- Department of Epidemiology and Clinical Microbiology, National Medicines Institute, ul. Chełmska 30/34, 00-725, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Urbas
- Department of Epidemiology and Clinical Microbiology, National Medicines Institute, ul. Chełmska 30/34, 00-725, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Peter E Nielsen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Henrik Franzyk
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Jagtvej 162, DK-2100, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Peptide-based targeted therapeutics: Focus on cancer treatment. J Control Release 2018; 292:141-162. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 11/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
19
|
Antonoplis A, Zang X, Huttner MA, Chong KKL, Lee YB, Co JY, Amieva MR, Kline KA, Wender PA, Cegelski L. A Dual-Function Antibiotic-Transporter Conjugate Exhibits Superior Activity in Sterilizing MRSA Biofilms and Killing Persister Cells. J Am Chem Soc 2018; 140:16140-16151. [PMID: 30388366 PMCID: PMC6430714 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.8b08711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
New strategies are urgently needed to target MRSA, a major global health problem and the leading cause of mortality from antibiotic-resistant infections in many countries. Here, we report a general approach to this problem exemplified by the design and synthesis of a vancomycin-d-octaarginine conjugate (V-r8) and investigation of its efficacy in addressing antibiotic-insensitive bacterial populations. V-r8 eradicated MRSA biofilm and persister cells in vitro, outperforming vancomycin by orders of magnitude. It also eliminated 97% of biofilm-associated MRSA in a murine wound infection model and displayed no acute dermal toxicity. This new dual-function conjugate displays enhanced cellular accumulation and membrane perturbation as compared to vancomycin. Based on its rapid and potent activity against biofilm and persister cells, V-r8 is a promising agent against clinical MRSA infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Antonoplis
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Xiaoyu Zang
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Melanie A. Huttner
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Kelvin K. L. Chong
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Science Engineering (SCELSE), School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551
- Nanyang Technological University Institute for Health Technologies, Interdisciplinary Graduate School, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637553
| | - Yu B. Lee
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Science Engineering (SCELSE), School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551
| | - Julia Y. Co
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Manuel R. Amieva
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Kimberly A. Kline
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Science Engineering (SCELSE), School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551
| | - Paul A. Wender
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Lynette Cegelski
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Reversal of Azole Resistance in Candida albicans by Sulfa Antibacterial Drugs. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2018; 62:AAC.00701-17. [PMID: 29263071 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00701-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive candidiasis presents an emerging global public health challenge due to the emergence of resistance to the frontline treatment options, such as fluconazole. Hence, the identification of other compounds capable of pairing with fluconazole and averting azole resistance would potentially prolong the clinical utility of this important group. In an effort to repurpose drugs in the field of antifungal drug discovery, we explored sulfa antibacterial drugs for the purpose of reversing azole resistance in Candida In this study, we assembled and investigated a library of 21 sulfa antibacterial drugs for their ability to restore fluconazole sensitivity in Candida albicans Surprisingly, the majority of assayed sulfa drugs (15 of 21) were found to exhibit synergistic relationships with fluconazole by checkerboard assay with fractional inhibitory concentration index (ΣFIC) values ranging from <0.0312 to 0.25. Remarkably, five sulfa drugs were able to reverse azole resistance in a clinically achievable range. The structure-activity relationships (SARs) of the amino benzene sulfonamide scaffold as antifungal agents were studied. We also identified the possible mechanism of the synergistic interaction of sulfa antibacterial drugs with azole antifungal drugs. Furthermore, the ability of sulfa antibacterial drugs to inhibit Candida biofilm by 40% in vitro was confirmed. In addition, the effects of sulfa-fluconazole combinations on Candida growth kinetics and efflux machinery were explored. Finally, using a Caenorhabditis elegans infection model, we demonstrated that the sulfa-fluconazole combination does possess potent antifungal activity in vivo, reducing Candida in infected worms by ∼50% compared to the control.
Collapse
|
21
|
Lam PL, Lee KKH, Wong RSM, Cheng GYM, Bian ZX, Chui CH, Gambari R. Recent advances on topical antimicrobials for skin and soft tissue infections and their safety concerns. Crit Rev Microbiol 2018; 44:40-78. [PMID: 28423970 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2017.1313811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance of disease-related microorganisms is considered a worldwide prevalent and serious issue which increases the failure of treatment outcomes and leads to high mortality. Considering that the increased resistance to systemic antimicrobial therapy often needs of the use of more toxic agents, topical antimicrobial therapy emerges as an attractive route for the treatment of infectious diseases. The topical antimicrobial therapy is based on the absorption of high drug doses in a readily accessible skin surface, resulting in a reduction of microbial proliferation at infected skin sites. Topical antimicrobials retain the following features: (a) they are able to escape the enzymatic degradation and rapid clearance in the gastrointestinal tract or the first-pass metabolism during oral administration; (b) alleviate the physical discomfort related to intravenous injection; (c) reduce possible adverse effects and drug interactions of systemic administrations; (d) increase patient compliance and convenience; and (e) reduce the treatment costs. Novel antimicrobials for topical application have been widely exploited to control the emergence of drug-resistant microorganisms. This review provides a description of antimicrobial resistance, common microorganisms causing skin and soft tissue infections, topical delivery route of antimicrobials, safety concerns of topical antimicrobials, recent advances, challenges and future prospective in topical antimicrobial development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P L Lam
- a Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, State Key Laboratory of Chirosciences , The Hong Kong Polytechnic University , Hong Kong , P.R. China
| | - K K H Lee
- b Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, School of Biomedical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine , The Chinese University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong , P.R. China
| | - R S M Wong
- b Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, School of Biomedical Sciences, MOE Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine , The Chinese University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong , P.R. China
| | - G Y M Cheng
- c Faculty of Health Sciences , University of Macau , Macau , P.R. China
| | - Z X Bian
- d Clinical Division, School of Chinese Medicine , Hong Kong Baptist University , Hong Kong , P.R. China
| | - C H Chui
- a Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, State Key Laboratory of Chirosciences , The Hong Kong Polytechnic University , Hong Kong , P.R. China
- d Clinical Division, School of Chinese Medicine , Hong Kong Baptist University , Hong Kong , P.R. China
| | - R Gambari
- e Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Centre of Biotechnology , University of Ferrara , Ferrara , Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chen J, Li H, Chen J. Human epidermal growth factor coupled to different structural classes of cell penetrating peptides: A comparative study. Int J Biol Macromol 2017; 105:336-345. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2017.07.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 04/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
|
23
|
Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs): currently potential bactericidal agents. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 93:580-588. [PMID: 28686972 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.06.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2017] [Revised: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the emergence of ESBL-producing and multi-drug resistant bacteria have been increased and designing novel components is necessary for confrontation these bacteria. Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are one of the synthetic components that bind to single strand DNA and RNA. Applications of these components are wide while, and one of the important applications of these components is inhibition of gene expression and knock downing the target gene follow as inhibition of bacterial growth. For PNA targeting gene, peptide-PNAs (PPNA) activity cannot be occurred without sequence homology, at the same time, it has been affected by sequence-based specific target and dose-dependent-based manner. Choosing the conserved sequence in different bacterial genus can provide broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. In this review article, we studied several research papers and extract PNA targeting genes that cause gene knock down and inhibition of bacterial growth. Some novel opportunities for advancement and the design ultra-narrow-spectrum antimicrobial drugs against multi-drug can be accessible by utilizing PNA against necessary genes of pathogens. These results open novel vision for therapeutic intervention. Future researches are required to evaluate the safety, toxicity and pharmacokinetics properties of PPNAs in order to be utilized in clinical treatment.
Collapse
|
24
|
Mohammad H, Younis W, Chen L, Peters CE, Pogliano J, Pogliano K, Cooper B, Zhang J, Mayhoub A, Oldfield E, Cushman M, Seleem MN. Phenylthiazole Antibacterial Agents Targeting Cell Wall Synthesis Exhibit Potent Activity in Vitro and in Vivo against Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci. J Med Chem 2017; 60:2425-2438. [PMID: 28248504 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.6b01780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial species, such as vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), necessitates the development of new antimicrobials. Here, we investigate the spectrum of antibacterial activity of three phenylthiazole-substituted aminoguanidines. These compounds possess potent activity against VRE, inhibiting growth of clinical isolates at concentrations as low as 0.5 μg/mL. The compounds exerted a rapid bactericidal effect, targeting cell wall synthesis. Transposon mutagenesis suggested three possible targets: YubA, YubB (undecaprenyl diphosphate phosphatase (UPPP)), and YubD. Both UPPP as well as undecaprenyl diphosphate synthase were inhibited by compound 1. YubA and YubD are annotated as transporters and may also be targets because 1 collapsed the proton motive force in membrane vesicles. Using Caenorhabditis elegans, we demonstrate that two compounds (1, 3, at 20 μg/mL) retain potent activity in vivo, significantly reducing the burden of VRE in infected worms. Taken altogether, the results indicate that compounds 1 and 3 warrant further investigation as novel antibacterial agents against drug-resistant enterococci.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haroon Mohammad
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine , West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Waleed Younis
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine , West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Lu Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign , Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Christine E Peters
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego , La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Joe Pogliano
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego , La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Kit Pogliano
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego , La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Bruce Cooper
- Bindley Bioscience Center, Purdue University , West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Jianan Zhang
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign , Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Abdelrahman Mayhoub
- Department of Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University , Cairo, 11884, Egypt.,Biomedical Sciences, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology , Giza, Egypt
| | - Eric Oldfield
- Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign , Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign , Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Mark Cushman
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University College of Pharmacy and the Purdue Center for Cancer Research , West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Mohamed N Seleem
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine , West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States.,Purdue Institute for Inflammation, Immunology, and Infectious Disease, Purdue University , West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Thangamani S, Eldesouky HE, Mohammad H, Pascuzzi PE, Avramova L, Hazbun TR, Seleem MN. Ebselen exerts antifungal activity by regulating glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in fungal cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2016; 1861:3002-3010. [PMID: 27712973 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2016.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ebselen, an organoselenium compound and a clinically safe molecule has been reported to possess potent antifungal activity, but its antifungal mechanism of action and in vivo antifungal activity remain unclear. METHODS The antifungal effect of ebselen was tested against Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, Cryptococcus neoformans, and C. gattii clinical isolates. Chemogenomic profiling and biochemical assays were employed to identify the antifungal target of ebselen. Ebselen's antifungal activity in vivo was investigated in a Caenorhabditis elegans animal model. RESULTS Ebselen exhibits potent antifungal activity against both Candida spp. and Cryptococcus spp., at concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 2μg/ml. Ebselen rapidly eradicates a high fungal inoculum within 2h of treatment. Investigation of the drug's antifungal mechanism of action indicates that ebselen depletes intracellular glutathione (GSH) levels, leading to increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and thereby disturbs the redox homeostasis in fungal cells. Examination of ebselen's in vivo antifungal activity in two Caenorhabditis elegans models of infection demonstrate that ebselen is superior to conventional antifungal drugs (fluconazole, flucytosine and amphotericin) in reducing Candida and Cryptococcus fungal load. CONCLUSION Ebselen possesses potent antifungal activity against clinically relevant isolates of both Candida and Cryptococcus by regulating GSH and ROS production. The potent in vivo antifungal activity of ebselen supports further investigation for repurposing it for use as an antifungal agent. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE The present study shows that ebselen targets glutathione and also support that glutathione as a potential target for antifungal drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shankar Thangamani
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Hassan E Eldesouky
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Haroon Mohammad
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Pete E Pascuzzi
- Faculty in Libraries, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Larisa Avramova
- Bindley Bioscience Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Tony R Hazbun
- Bindley Bioscience Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA; Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA.
| | - Mohamed N Seleem
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA; Purdue Institute for Inflammation, Immunology, and Infectious Disease, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
| |
Collapse
|