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Wu D, Wang J, Du X, Cao Y, Ping K, Liu D. Cucurbit[8]uril-based supramolecular theranostics. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:235. [PMID: 38725031 PMCID: PMC11084038 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02349-z] [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: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Different from most of the conventional platforms with dissatisfactory theranostic capabilities, supramolecular nanotheranostic systems have unparalleled advantages via the artful combination of supramolecular chemistry and nanotechnology. Benefiting from the tunable stimuli-responsiveness and compatible hierarchical organization, host-guest interactions have developed into the most popular mainstay for constructing supramolecular nanoplatforms. Characterized by the strong and diverse complexation property, cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) shows great potential as important building blocks for supramolecular theranostic systems. In this review, we summarize the recent progress of CB[8]-based supramolecular theranostics regarding the design, manufacture and theranostic mechanism. Meanwhile, the current limitations and corresponding reasonable solutions as well as the potential future development are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianfeng Wang
- Department of Radiotherapy, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianlong Du
- Bethune First Clinical Medical College, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, People's Republic of China
| | - Yibin Cao
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Kunmin Ping
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Dahai Liu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China.
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2
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Li X, Duan Z, Li Z, Gu L, Li Y, Gong Q, Gu Z, Luo K. Dendritic polymer-functionalized nanomedicine potentiates immunotherapy via lethal energy crisis-induced PD-L1 degradation. Biomaterials 2023; 302:122294. [PMID: 37657175 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
The advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors ushers in a new era of anti-tumor immunity. However, current clinical anti-PD-L1 antibodies only interdict PD-L1 on the membrane, which cannot diminish the complex cancer-promoting effects of intracellular PD-L1. Therefore, directly reducing the PD-L1 abundance of cancer cells might be a potential PD-L1 inhibitory strategy to circumvent the issues of current anti-PD-L1 antibodies. Herein, we develop a dendritic polymer-functionalized nanomedicine with a potent cellular energy depletion effect on colon cancer cells. Treatment with the nanomedicine significantly promotes phosphorylation of AMPK, which in turn leads to PD-L1 degradation and eventual T cell activation. Meanwhile, the nanomedicine can potently induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) to enhance the anti-cancer immunity. Moreover, the combination of the nanomedicine with PD-1 blockade further enhances the activity of cytotoxic T lymphocytes, and dramatically inhibits tumor growth in vivo without distinct side effects. Overall, this study provides a promising nanoplatform to induce lethal energy crisis and ICD, and suppress PD-L1 expression, thus potentiating cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Li
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhenyu Duan
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhiqian Li
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lei Gu
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yinggang Li
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qiyong Gong
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China; Department of Radiology, West China Xiamen Hospital of Sichuan University, Xiamen, 361000, China
| | - Zhongwei Gu
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Research Institute for Biomaterials, Tech Institute for Advanced Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, NJTech-BARTY Joint Research Center for Innovative Medical Technology, Suqian Advanced Materials Industry Technology Innovation Center, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Inorganic Function Composites, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Kui Luo
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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3
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Gale AN, Pavesic MW, Nickels TJ, Xu Z, Cormack BP, Cunningham KW. Redefining pleiotropic drug resistance in a pathogenic yeast: Pdr1 functions as a sensor of cellular stresses in Candida glabrata. mSphere 2023; 8:e0025423. [PMID: 37358297 PMCID: PMC10449514 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00254-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida glabrata is a prominent opportunistic fungal pathogen of humans. The increasing incidence of C. glabrata infections is attributed to both innate and acquired resistance to antifungals. Previous studies suggest the transcription factor Pdr1 and several target genes encoding ABC transporters are critical elements of pleiotropic defense against azoles and other antifungals. This study utilizes Hermes transposon insertion profiling to investigate Pdr1-independent and Pdr1-dependent mechanisms that alter susceptibility to the frontline antifungal fluconazole. Several new genes were found to alter fluconazole susceptibility independent of Pdr1 (CYB5, SSK1, SSK2, HOG1, TRP1). A bZIP transcription repressor of mitochondrial function (CIN5) positively regulated Pdr1 while hundreds of genes encoding mitochondrial proteins were confirmed as negative regulators of Pdr1. The antibiotic oligomycin activated Pdr1 and antagonized fluconazole efficacy likely by interfering with mitochondrial processes in C. glabrata. Unexpectedly, disruption of many 60S ribosomal proteins also activated Pdr1, thus mimicking the effects of the mRNA translation inhibitors. Cycloheximide failed to fully activate Pdr1 in a cycloheximide-resistant Rpl28-Q38E mutant. Similarly, fluconazole failed to fully activate Pdr1 in a strain expressing a low-affinity variant of Erg11. Fluconazole activated Pdr1 with very slow kinetics that correlated with the delayed onset of cellular stress. These findings are inconsistent with the idea that Pdr1 directly senses xenobiotics and support an alternative hypothesis where Pdr1 senses cellular stresses that arise only after engagement of xenobiotics with their targets. IMPORTANCE Candida glabrata is an opportunistic pathogenic yeast that causes discomfort and death. Its incidence has been increasing because of natural defenses to our common antifungal medications. This study explores the entire genome for impacts on resistance to fluconazole. We find several new and unexpected genes can impact susceptibility to fluconazole. Several antibiotics can also alter the efficacy of fluconazole. Most importantly, we find that Pdr1-a key determinant of fluconazole resistance-is not regulated directly through binding of fluconazole and instead is regulated indirectly by sensing the cellular stresses caused by fluconazole blockage of sterol biosynthesis. This new understanding of drug resistance mechanisms could improve the outcomes of current antifungals and accelerate the development of novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew N. Gale
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Matthew W. Pavesic
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Timothy J. Nickels
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Zhuwei Xu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Brendan P. Cormack
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kyle W. Cunningham
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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4
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Qin Y, Wang J, Lv Q, Han B. Recent Progress in Research on Mitochondrion-Targeted Antifungal Drugs: a Review. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2023; 67:e0000323. [PMID: 37195189 PMCID: PMC10269089 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00003-23] [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] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections, which commonly occur in immunocompromised patients, can cause high morbidity and mortality. Antifungal agents act by disrupting the cell membrane, inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis and function, or inhibiting β-1,3-glucan synthase. Because the incidences of life-threatening fungal infections and antifungal drug resistance are continuously increasing, there is an urgent need for the development of new antifungal agents with novel mechanisms of action. Recent studies have focused on mitochondrial components as potential therapeutic drug targets, owing to their important roles in fungal viability and pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss novel antifungal drugs targeting mitochondrial components and highlight the unique fungal proteins involved in the electron transport chain, which is useful for investigating selective antifungal targets. Finally, we comprehensively summarize the efficacy and safety of lead compounds in clinical and preclinical development. Although fungus-specific proteins in the mitochondrion are involved in various processes, the majority of the antifungal agents target dysfunction of mitochondria, including mitochondrial respiration disturbance, increased intracellular ATP, reactive oxygen species generation, and others. Moreover, only a few drugs are under clinical trials, necessitating further exploration of possible targets and development of effective antifungal agents. The unique chemical structures and targets of these compounds will provide valuable hints for further exploiting new antifungals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Qin
- Department of Pharmacy, Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinxin Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Quanzhen Lv
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bing Han
- Department of Pharmacy, Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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5
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Li X, Duan Z, Chen X, Pan D, Luo Q, Gu L, Xu G, Li Y, Zhang H, Gong Q, Chen R, Gu Z, Luo K. Impairing Tumor Metabolic Plasticity via a Stable Metal-Phenolic-Based Polymeric Nanomedicine to Suppress Colorectal Cancer. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2300548. [PMID: 36917817 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202300548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Targeting metabolic vulnerability of tumor cells is a promising anticancer strategy. However, the therapeutic efficacy of existing metabolism-regulating agents is often compromised due to tolerance resulting from tumor metabolic plasticity, as well as their poor bioavailability and tumor-targetability. Inspired by the inhibitive effect of N-ethylmaleimide on the mitochondrial function, a dendronized-polymer-functionalized metal-phenolic nanomedicine (pOEG-b-D-SH@NP) encapsulating maleimide-modified doxorubicin (Mal-DOX) is developed to enable improvement in the overall delivery efficiency and inhibition of the tumor metabolism via multiple pathways. It is observed that Mal-DOX and its derived nanomedicine induces energy depletion of CT26 colorectal cancer cells more efficiently than doxorubicin, and shifts the balance of programmed cell death from apoptosis toward necroptosis. Notably, pOEG-b-D-SH@NP simultaneously inhibits cellular oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis, thus potently suppressing cancer growth and peritoneal intestinal metastasis in mouse models. Overall, the study provides a promising dendronized-polymer-derived nanoplatform for the treatment of cancers through impairing metabolic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Li
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Animal Experimental Center, Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhenyu Duan
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Animal Experimental Center, Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaoting Chen
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Animal Experimental Center, Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Dayi Pan
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Animal Experimental Center, Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qiang Luo
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Animal Experimental Center, Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lei Gu
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Animal Experimental Center, Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Gang Xu
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Animal Experimental Center, Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Functional and molecular imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yinggang Li
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Animal Experimental Center, Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Hu Zhang
- Amgen Bioprocessing Centre, Keck Graduate Institute, Claremont, CA, 91711, USA
| | - Qiyong Gong
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Animal Experimental Center, Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Functional and molecular imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Radiology, West China Xiamen Hospital of Sichuan University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361000, China
| | - Rongjun Chen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Zhongwei Gu
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Animal Experimental Center, Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Kui Luo
- Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Animal Experimental Center, Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Functional and molecular imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, NHC, and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
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Gale AN, Pavesic MW, Nickels TJ, Xu Z, Cormack BP, Cunningham KW. Redefining Pleiotropic Drug Resistance in a Pathogenic Yeast: Pdr1 Functions as a Sensor of Cellular Stresses in Candida glabrata. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.07.539747. [PMID: 37214952 PMCID: PMC10197522 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.07.539747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Candida glabrata is a prominent opportunistic fungal pathogen of humans. The increasing incidence of C. glabrata infections is attributed to both innate and acquired resistance to antifungals. Previous studies suggest the transcription factor Pdr1 and several target genes encoding ABC transporters are critical elements of pleiotropic defense against azoles and other antifungals. This study utilizes Hermes transposon insertion profiling to investigate Pdr1-independent and Pdr1-dependent mechanisms that alter susceptibility to the frontline antifungal fluconazole. Several new genes were found to alter fluconazole susceptibility independent of Pdr1 ( CYB5 , SSK1 , SSK2 , HOG1 , TRP1 ). A bZIP transcription repressor of mitochondrial function ( CIN5 ) positively regulated Pdr1 while hundreds of genes encoding mitochondrial proteins were confirmed as negative regulators of Pdr1. The antibiotic oligomycin activated Pdr1 and antagonized fluconazole efficacy likely by interfering with mitochondrial processes in C. glabrata . Unexpectedly, disruption of many 60S ribosomal proteins also activated Pdr1, thus mimicking the effects of the mRNA translation inhibitors. Cycloheximide failed to fully activate Pdr1 in a cycloheximide-resistant Rpl28-Q38E mutant. Similarly, fluconazole failed to fully activate Pdr1 in a strain expressing a low-affinity variant of Erg11. Fluconazole activated Pdr1 with very slow kinetics that correlated with the delayed onset of cellular stress. These findings are inconsistent with the idea that Pdr1 directly senses xenobiotics and support an alternative hypothesis where Pdr1 senses cellular stresses that arise only after engagement of xenobiotics with their targets. Importance Candida glabrata is an opportunistic pathogenic yeast that causes discomfort and death. Its incidence has been increasing because of natural defenses to our common antifungal medications. This study explores the entire genome for impacts on resistance to fluconazole. We find several new and unexpected genes can impact susceptibility to fluconazole. Several antibiotics can also alter the efficacy of fluconazole. Most importantly, we find that Pdr1 - a key determinant of fluconazole resistance - is not regulated directly through binding of fluconazole and instead is regulated indirectly by sensing the cellular stresses caused by fluconazole blockage of sterol biosynthesis. This new understanding of drug resistance mechanisms could improve the outcomes of current antifungals and accelerate the development of novel therapeutics.
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7
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Jin X, Hou X, Wang X, Zhang M, Chen J, Song M, Zhang J, Zheng H, Chang W, Lou H. Characterization of an allosteric inhibitor of fungal-specific C-24 sterol methyltransferase to treat Candida albicans infections. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:553-568.e7. [PMID: 37160123 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.04.010] [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: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Filamentation is an important virulence factor of the pathogenic fungus Candida albicans. The abolition of Candida albicans hyphal formation by disrupting sterol synthesis is an important concept for the development of antifungal drugs with high safety. Here, we conduct a high-throughput screen using a C. albicans strain expressing green fluorescent protein-labeled Dpp3 to identify anti-hypha agents by interfering with ergosterol synthesis. The antipyrine derivative H55 is characterized to have minimal cytotoxicity and potent inhibition of C. albicans hyphal formation in multiple cultural conditions. H55 monotherapy exhibits therapeutic efficacy in mouse models of azole-resistant candidiasis. H55 treatment increases the accumulation of zymosterol, the substrate of C-24 sterol methyltransferase (Erg6). The results of enzyme assays, photoaffinity labeling, molecular simulation, mutagenesis, and cellular thermal shift assays support H55 as an allosteric inhibitor of Erg6. Collectively, H55, an inhibitor of the fungal-specific enzyme Erg6, holds potential to treat C. albicans infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyang Jin
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xuben Hou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Institute of Medical Science, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jinyao Chen
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Minghui Song
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jiaozhen Zhang
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Hongbo Zheng
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wenqiang Chang
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.
| | - Hongxiang Lou
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.
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8
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Zhang Z, Deng Z, Zhu L, Zeng J, Cai XM, Qiu Z, Zhao Z, Tang BZ. Aggregation-induced emission biomaterials for anti-pathogen medical applications: detecting, imaging and killing. Regen Biomater 2023; 10:rbad044. [PMID: 37265605 PMCID: PMC10229374 DOI: 10.1093/rb/rbad044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial pathogens, including bacteria, fungi and viruses, greatly threaten the global public health. For pathogen infections, early diagnosis and precise treatment are essential to cut the mortality rate. The emergence of aggregation-induced emission (AIE) biomaterials provides an effective and promising tool for the theranostics of pathogen infections. In this review, the recent advances about AIE biomaterials for anti-pathogen theranostics are summarized. With the excellent sensitivity and photostability, AIE biomaterials have been widely applied for precise diagnosis of pathogens. Besides, different types of anti-pathogen methods based on AIE biomaterials will be presented in detail, including chemotherapy and phototherapy. Finally, the existing deficiencies and future development of AIE biomaterials for anti-pathogen applications will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zicong Zhang
- Clinical Translational Research Center of Aggregation-Induced Emission, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, School of Science and Engineering, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Functional Aggregate Materials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
| | - Ziwei Deng
- Clinical Translational Research Center of Aggregation-Induced Emission, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, School of Science and Engineering, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Functional Aggregate Materials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
| | - Lixun Zhu
- Clinical Translational Research Center of Aggregation-Induced Emission, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, School of Science and Engineering, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Functional Aggregate Materials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
| | - Jialin Zeng
- Clinical Translational Research Center of Aggregation-Induced Emission, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, School of Science and Engineering, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Functional Aggregate Materials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
| | - Xu Min Cai
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Rescources, International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Zijie Qiu
- Clinical Translational Research Center of Aggregation-Induced Emission, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, School of Science and Engineering, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Functional Aggregate Materials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
| | - Zheng Zhao
- Correspondence address. E-mail: (Z.Z.); (B.Z.T.)
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9
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Liu N, Tu J, Huang Y, Yang W, Wang Q, Li Z, Sheng C. Target- and prodrug-based design for fungal diseases and cancer-associated fungal infections. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 197:114819. [PMID: 37024014 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are emerging as a serious threat to public health and are associated with high incidence and mortality. IFIs also represent a frequent complication in patients with cancer who are undergoing chemotherapy. However, effective and safe antifungal agents remain limited, and the development of severe drug resistance further undermines the efficacy of antifungal therapy. Therefore, there is an urgent need for novel antifungal agents to treat life-threatening fungal diseases, especially those with new mode of action, favorable pharmacokinetic profiles, and anti-resistance activity. In this review, we summarize new antifungal targets and target-based inhibitor design, with a focus on their antifungal activity, selectivity, and mechanism. We also illustrate the prodrug design strategy used to improve the physicochemical and pharmacokinetic profiles of antifungal agents. Dual-targeting antifungal agents offer a new strategy for the treatment of resistant infections and cancer-associated fungal infections.
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Makvandi P, Song H, Yiu CKY, Sartorius R, Zare EN, Rabiee N, Wu WX, Paiva-Santos AC, Wang XD, Yu CZ, Tay FR. Bioengineered materials with selective antimicrobial toxicity in biomedicine. Mil Med Res 2023; 10:8. [PMID: 36829246 PMCID: PMC9951506 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-023-00443-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungi and bacteria afflict humans with innumerous pathogen-related infections and ailments. Most of the commonly employed microbicidal agents target commensal and pathogenic microorganisms without discrimination. To distinguish and fight the pathogenic species out of the microflora, novel antimicrobials have been developed that selectively target specific bacteria and fungi. The cell wall features and antimicrobial mechanisms that these microorganisms involved in are highlighted in the present review. This is followed by reviewing the design of antimicrobials that selectively combat a specific community of microbes including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains as well as fungi. Finally, recent advances in the antimicrobial immunomodulation strategy that enables treating microorganism infections with high specificity are reviewed. These basic tenets will enable the avid reader to design novel approaches and compounds for antibacterial and antifungal applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooyan Makvandi
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Centre for Materials Interfaces, Pontedera, 56025, Italy. .,The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, 324000, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Hao Song
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Cynthia K Y Yiu
- Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Prince Philip Dental Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Rossella Sartorius
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council (CNR), 80131, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Navid Rabiee
- School of Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.,Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Wei-Xi Wu
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Ana Cláudia Paiva-Santos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal.,REQUIMTE/LAQV, Group of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Xiang-Dong Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Cheng-Zhong Yu
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia.,School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Franklin R Tay
- The Graduate School, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.
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11
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Stereoisomeric engineering of aggregation-induced emission photosensitizers towards fungal killing. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7046. [PMID: 36396937 PMCID: PMC9672067 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34358-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infection poses and increased risk to human health. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) as an alternative antifungal approach garners much interest due to its minimal side effects and negligible antifungal drug resistance. Herein, we develop stereoisomeric photosensitizers ((Z)- and (E)-TPE-EPy) by harnessing different spatial configurations of one molecule. They possess aggregation-induced emission characteristics and ROS, viz. 1O2 and O2-• generation capabilities that enable image-guided PDT. Also, the cationization of the photosensitizers realizes the targeting of fungal mitochondria for antifungal PDT killing. Particularly, stereoisomeric engineering assisted by supramolecular assembly leads to enhanced fluorescence intensity and ROS generation efficiency of the stereoisomers due to the excited state energy flow from nonradiative decay to the fluorescence pathway and intersystem (ISC) process. As a result, the supramolecular assemblies based on (Z)- and (E)-TPE-EPy show dramatically lowered dark toxicity without sacrificing their significant phototoxicity in the photodynamic antifungal experiments. This study is a demonstration of stereoisomeric engineering of aggregation-induced emission photosensitizers based on (Z)- and (E)-configurations.
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12
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Wan P, Guo W, Wang Y, Deng M, Xiao C, Chen X. Photosensitizer-Polypeptide Conjugate for Effective Elimination of Candida albicans Biofilm. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2200268. [PMID: 35758640 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202200268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Persistent fungal infections caused by biofilms seriously endanger human health. In this study, a photosensitizer-polypeptide conjugate (PPa-cP) comprising a photosensitizer, pyropheophorbide a (PPa), and a cationic polypeptide (cP) is readily synthesized for effective antifungal and antibiofilm treatment. Compared with free PPa, the cationic PPa-cP shows enhanced binding ability to the negatively charged surface of Candida albicans (C. albicans) through electrostatic interactions. As a result, PPa-cP exhibits effective antifungal efficiency against both C. albicans and fluconazole-resistant C. albicans in vitro under light irradiation. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of PPa-cP for both C. albicans and fluconazole-resistant C. albicans is 1 µm. In addition, PPa-cP also shows improved penetration in a C. albicans biofilm, thus effectively eliminating the C. albicans biofilm by photodynamic effects. More importantly, PPa-cP demonstrats significantly enhanced therapeutic effects in a fluconazole-resistant C. albicans-infected rat model with minimal side effects. In conclusion, the current work presents an effective strategy to combat biofilm infections associated with biomedical equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengqi Wan
- Department of Chemistry, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, 130024, P. R. China.,Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130022, P. R. China
| | - Wei Guo
- Department of Chemistry, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, 130024, P. R. China.,Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130022, P. R. China
| | - Yongjie Wang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, P. R. China
| | - Mingxiao Deng
- Department of Chemistry, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, 130024, P. R. China
| | - Chunsheng Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130022, P. R. China.,Jilin Biomedical Polymers Engineering Laboratory, Changchun, 130022, P. R. China
| | - Xuesi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130022, P. R. China.,Jilin Biomedical Polymers Engineering Laboratory, Changchun, 130022, P. R. China
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13
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Yang XC, Hu CF, Zhang PL, Li S, Hu CS, Geng RX, Zhou CH. Coumarin thiazoles as unique structural skeleton of potential antimicrobial agents. Bioorg Chem 2022; 124:105855. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.105855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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14
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Simm C, Weerasinghe H, Thomas DR, Harrison PF, Newton HJ, Beilharz TH, Traven A. Disruption of Iron Homeostasis and Mitochondrial Metabolism Are Promising Targets to Inhibit Candida auris. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0010022. [PMID: 35412372 PMCID: PMC9045333 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00100-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are a global threat, but treatments are limited due to a paucity in antifungal drug targets and the emergence of drug-resistant fungi such as Candida auris. Metabolic adaptations enable microbial growth in nutrient-scarce host niches, and they further control immune responses to pathogens, thereby offering opportunities for therapeutic targeting. Because it is a relatively new pathogen, little is known about the metabolic requirements for C. auris growth and its adaptations to counter host defenses. Here, we establish that triggering metabolic dysfunction is a promising strategy against C. auris. Treatment with pyrvinium pamoate (PP) induced metabolic reprogramming and mitochondrial dysfunction evident in disrupted mitochondrial morphology and reduced tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle enzyme activity. PP also induced changes consistent with disrupted iron homeostasis. Nutrient supplementation experiments support the proposition that PP-induced metabolic dysfunction is driven by disrupted iron homeostasis, which compromises carbon and lipid metabolism and mitochondria. PP inhibited C. auris replication in macrophages, which is a relevant host niche for this yeast pathogen. We propose that PP causes a multipronged metabolic hit to C. auris: it restricts the micronutrient iron to potentiate nutritional immunity imposed by immune cells, and it further causes metabolic dysfunction that compromises the utilization of macronutrients, thereby curbing the metabolic plasticity needed for growth in host environments. Our study offers a new avenue for therapeutic development against drug-resistant C. auris, shows how complex metabolic dysfunction can be caused by a single compound triggering antifungal inhibition, and provides insights into the metabolic needs of C. auris in immune cell environments. IMPORTANCE Over the last decade, Candida auris has emerged as a human pathogen around the world causing life-threatening infections with wide-spread antifungal drug resistance, including pandrug resistance in some cases. In this study, we addressed the mechanism of action of the antiparasitic drug pyrvinium pamoate against C. auris and show how metabolism could be inhibited to curb C. auris proliferation. We show that pyrvinium pamoate triggers sweeping metabolic and mitochondrial changes and disrupts iron homeostasis. PP-induced metabolic dysfunction compromises the utilization of both micro- and macronutrients by C. auris and reduces its growth in vitro and in immune phagocytes. Our findings provide insights into the metabolic requirements for C. auris growth and define the mechanisms of action of pyrvinium pamoate against C. auris, demonstrating how this compound works by inhibiting the metabolic flexibility of the pathogen. As such, our study characterizes credible avenues for new antifungal approaches against C. auris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Simm
- Infection Program and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Harshini Weerasinghe
- Infection Program and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - David R. Thomas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Hayley J. Newton
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Traude H. Beilharz
- Development and Stem Cells Program and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ana Traven
- Infection Program and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
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15
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Bhalla K, Qu X, Kretschmer M, Kronstad JW. The phosphate language of fungi. Trends Microbiol 2021; 30:338-349. [PMID: 34479774 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Phosphate is an essential macronutrient for fungal proliferation as well as a key mediator of antagonistic, beneficial, and pathogenic interactions between fungi and other organisms. In this review, we summarize recent insights into the integration of phosphate metabolism with mechanisms of fungal adaptation that support growth and survival. In particular, we highlight aspects of phosphate sensing important for responses to stress and regulation of cell-surface changes with an impact on fungal pathogenesis, host immune responses, and disease outcomes. Additionally, new studies provide insights into the influence of phosphate availability on cooperative or antagonistic interactions between fungi and other microbes, the associations of mycorrhizal and endophytic fungi with plants, and connections with plant immunity. Overall, phosphate homeostasis is emerging as an integral part of fungal metabolism and communication to support diverse lifestyles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kabir Bhalla
- Michael Smith Laboratories, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Xianya Qu
- Michael Smith Laboratories, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Matthias Kretschmer
- Michael Smith Laboratories, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - James W Kronstad
- Michael Smith Laboratories, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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16
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Chou S, Li Q, Wu H, Li J, Chang YF, Shang L, Li J, Wang Z, Shan A. Selective Antifungal Activity and Fungal Biofilm Inhibition of Tryptophan Center Symmetrical Short Peptide. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158231. [PMID: 34360998 PMCID: PMC8348200 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans, an opportunistic fungus, causes dental caries and contributes to mucosal bacterial dysbiosis leading to a second infection. Furthermore, C.albicans forms biofilms that are resistant to medicinal treatment. To make matters worse, antifungal resistance has spread (albeit slowly) in this species. Thus, it has been imperative to develop novel, antifungal drug compounds. Herein, a peptide was engineered with the sequence of RRFSFWFSFRR-NH2; this was named P19. This novel peptide has been observed to exert disruptive effects on fungal cell membrane physiology. Our results showed that P19 displayed high binding affinity to lipopolysaccharides (LPS), lipoteichoic acids (LTA) and the plasma membrane phosphatidylinositol (PI), phosphatidylserine (PS), cardiolipin, and phosphatidylglycerol (PG), further indicating that the molecular mechanism of P19 was not associated with the receptor recognition, but rather related to competitive interaction with the plasma membrane. In addition, compared with fluconazole and amphotericin B, P19 has been shown to have a lower potential for resistance selection than established antifungal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuli Chou
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.W.); (J.L.); (L.S.); (J.L.); (Z.W.)
| | - Qiuke Li
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.W.); (J.L.); (L.S.); (J.L.); (Z.W.)
| | - Hua Wu
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.W.); (J.L.); (L.S.); (J.L.); (Z.W.)
| | - Jinze Li
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.W.); (J.L.); (L.S.); (J.L.); (Z.W.)
| | - Yung-Fu Chang
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA;
| | - Lu Shang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.W.); (J.L.); (L.S.); (J.L.); (Z.W.)
| | - Jiawei Li
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.W.); (J.L.); (L.S.); (J.L.); (Z.W.)
| | - Zhihua Wang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.W.); (J.L.); (L.S.); (J.L.); (Z.W.)
| | - Anshan Shan
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.W.); (J.L.); (L.S.); (J.L.); (Z.W.)
- Correspondence:
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17
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Zhou C, Peng C, Shi C, Jiang M, Chau JHC, Liu Z, Bai H, Kwok RTK, Lam JWY, Shi Y, Tang BZ. Mitochondria-Specific Aggregation-Induced Emission Luminogens for Selective Photodynamic Killing of Fungi and Efficacious Treatment of Keratitis. ACS NANO 2021; 15:12129-12139. [PMID: 34181408 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c03508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The development of effective antifungal agents remains a big challenge in view of the close evolutionary relationship between mammalian cells and fungi. Moreover, rapid mutations of fungal receptors at the molecular level result in the emergence of drug resistance. Here, with low tendency to develop drug-resistance, the subcellular organelle mitochondrion is exploited as an alternative target for efficient fungal killing by photodynamic therapy (PDT) of mitochondrial-targeting luminogens with aggregation-induced emission characteristics (AIEgens). With cationic isoquinolinium (IQ) moiety and proper hydrophobicity, three AIEgens, namely, IQ-TPE-2O, IQ-Cm, and IQ-TPA, can preferentially accumulate at the mitochondria of fungi over the mammalian cells. Upon white light irradiation, these AIEgens efficiently generate reactive 1O2, which causes irreversible damage to fungal mitochondria and further triggers the fungal death. Among them, IQ-TPA shows the highest PDT efficiency against fungi and negligible toxicity to mammalian cells, achieving the selective and highly efficient killing of fungi. Furthermore, we tested the clinical utility of this PDT strategy by treating fungal keratitis on a fungus-infected rabbit model. It was demonstrated that IQ-TPA presents obviously better therapeutic effects as compared with the clinically used rose bengal, suggesting the success of this PDT strategy and its great potential for clinical treatment of fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengcheng Zhou
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225002, China
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and SCUT-HKUST Joint Research Laboratory, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong China
| | - Chen Peng
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and SCUT-HKUST Joint Research Laboratory, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong China
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Chunzi Shi
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Meijuan Jiang
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and SCUT-HKUST Joint Research Laboratory, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong China
| | - Joe H C Chau
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and SCUT-HKUST Joint Research Laboratory, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong China
| | - Zhiyang Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and SCUT-HKUST Joint Research Laboratory, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong China
| | - Haotian Bai
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and SCUT-HKUST Joint Research Laboratory, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong China
| | - Ryan T K Kwok
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and SCUT-HKUST Joint Research Laboratory, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong China
| | - Jacky W Y Lam
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and SCUT-HKUST Joint Research Laboratory, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong China
| | - Yuxin Shi
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Ben Zhong Tang
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, and SCUT-HKUST Joint Research Laboratory, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong China
- Shenzhen Institute of Aggregate Science and Technology, School of Science & Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Longgang, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
- AIE Institute, Guangzhou Development District, Huangpu, Guangzhou 510530, China
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18
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Zhao Y, Lyu Y, Zhang Y, Li S, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Tang C, Zhang Z, Li D, Zhang H. The fungal-specific subunit i/j of F1FO-ATP synthase stimulates the pathogenicity of Candida albicans independent of oxidative phosphorylation. Med Mycol 2021; 59:639-652. [PMID: 33269392 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myaa094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Invasive fungal infections are a major cause of human mortality due in part to a very limited antifungal drug arsenal. The identification of fungal-specific pathogenic mechanisms is considered a crucial step to current antifungal drug development and represents a significant goal to increase the efficacy and reduce host toxicity. Although the overall architecture of F1FO-ATP synthase is largely conserved in both fungi and mammals, the subunit i/j (Su i/j, Atp18) and subunit k (Su k, Atp19) are proteins not found in mammals and specific to fungi. Here, the role of Su i/j and Su k in Candida albicans was characterized by an in vivo assessment of the virulence and in vitro growth and mitochondrial function. Strikingly, the atp18Δ/Δ mutant showed significantly reduced pathogenicity in systemic murine model. However, this substantial defect in infectivity exists without associated defects in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation or proliferation in vitro. Analysis of virulence-related traits reveals normal in both mutants, but shows cell wall defects in composition and architecture in the case of atp18Δ/Δ. We also find that the atp18Δ/Δ mutant is more susceptible to attack by macrophages than wild type, which may correlate well with the abnormal cell wall function and increased sensitivity to oxidative stress. In contrast, no significant changes were observed in any of these studies for the atp19Δ/Δ. These results demonstrate that the fungal-specific Su i/j, but not Su k of F1FO-ATP synthase may play a critical role in C. albicans infectivity and represent another opportunity for new therapeutic target investigation. LAY ABSTRACT This study aims to investigate biological functions of fungal-specific subunit i/j and subunit k of ATP synthase in C. albicans oxidative phosphorylation and virulence potential. Our results revealed that subunit i/j, and not subunit k, is critical for C. albicans pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajing Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Lyu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanli Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shuixiu Li
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yishan Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuting Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chuanyan Tang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhanpeng Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dongmei Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Mycology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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19
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Li H, Chen H, Shi W, Shi J, Yuan J, Duan C, Fan Q, Liu Y. A novel use for an old drug: resistance reversal in Candida albicans by combining dihydroartemisinin with fluconazole. Future Microbiol 2021; 16:461-469. [PMID: 33960815 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2020-0148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To investigate the effects of dihydroartemisinin combined with fluconazole against C. albicans in vitro and to explore the underlying mechanisms. Materials & methods: Checkerboard microdilution assay and time-kill curve method were employed to evaluate the static and dynamic antifungal effects against C. albicans. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured by a fluorescent probe. Results: Combination of dihydroartemisinin and fluconazole exerted potent synergy against planktonic cells and biofilms of fluconazole-resistant C. albicans, with the fractional inhibitory concentration index values less than 0.07. A potent fungistatic activity of this drug combination could still be observed after 18 h. The accumulation of ROS induced by the drug combination might contribute to the synergy. Conclusion: Dihydroartemisinin reversed the resistance of C. albicans to fluconazole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, China.,College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, China
| | - Haisheng Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, China
| | - Wenna Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, China
| | - Jing Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, China
| | - Jupeng Yuan
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, China
| | - Cunxian Duan
- Department of Pharmacy, Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, China
| | - Qing Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, China
| | - Yuguo Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, China
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20
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Tragni V, Cotugno P, De Grassi A, Massari F, Di Ronzo F, Aresta AM, Zambonin C, Sanzani SM, Ippolito A, Pierri CL. Targeting mitochondrial metabolite transporters in Penicillium expansum for reducing patulin production. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2021; 158:158-181. [PMID: 33250320 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2020.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
There is an increasing need of alternative treatments to control fungal infection and consequent mycotoxin accumulation in harvested fruits and vegetables. Indeed, only few biological targets of antifungal agents have been characterized and can be used for limiting fungal spread from decayed fruits/vegetables to surrounding healthy ones during storage. On this concern, a promising target of new antifungal treatments may be represented by mitochondrial proteins due to some species-specific functions played by mitochondria in fungal morphogenesis, drug resistance and virulence. One of the most studied mycotoxins is patulin produced by several species of Penicillium and Aspergillus genera. Patulin is toxic to many biological systems including bacteria, higher plants and animalia. Although precise biochemical mechanisms of patulin toxicity in humans are not completely clarified, its high presence in fresh and processed apple fruits and other apple-based products makes necessary developing a strategy for limiting its presence/accumulation. Patulin biosynthetic pathway consists of an enzymatic cascade, whose first step is represented by the synthesis of 6-methylsalicylic acid, obtained from the condensation of one acetyl-CoA molecule with three malonyl-CoA molecules. The most abundant acetyl-CoA precursor is represented by citrate produced by mitochondria. In the present investigation we report about the possibility to control patulin production through the inhibition of mitochondrial/peroxisome transporters involved in the export of acetyl-CoA precursors from mitochondria and/or peroxisomes, with specific reference to the predicted P. expansum mitochondrial Ctp1p, DTC, Sfc1p, Oac1p and peroxisomal PXN carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Tragni
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Pietro Cotugno
- Biology Department, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Anna De Grassi
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Molecular and Structural Biology, Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies, Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, Via E. Orabona, 4, 70125, Bari, Italy; BROWSer S.r.l. (https://browser-bioinf.com/) c/o, Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies, Biopharmaceutics, University "Aldo Moro" of Bari, Via E. Orabona, 4, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Federica Massari
- Biology Department, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Di Ronzo
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Molecular and Structural Biology, Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies, Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, Via E. Orabona, 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonella Maria Aresta
- Chemistry Department, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Carlo Zambonin
- Chemistry Department, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Ippolito
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126, Bari, Italy.
| | - Ciro Leonardo Pierri
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Molecular and Structural Biology, Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies, Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, Via E. Orabona, 4, 70125, Bari, Italy; BROWSer S.r.l. (https://browser-bioinf.com/) c/o, Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies, Biopharmaceutics, University "Aldo Moro" of Bari, Via E. Orabona, 4, 70126, Bari, Italy.
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Tangadanchu VKR, Gundabathini SR, Bethala L. A. PD, Yedla P, Chityal GK. Isomannide monoundecenoate‐based 1,2,3‐triazoles: Design, synthesis, and in vitro bioactive evaluation. J Heterocycl Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/jhet.4138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vijai Kumar Reddy Tangadanchu
- Centre for Lipid Science & Technology CSIR‐Indian Institute of Chemical Technology Hyderabad India
- Department of Radiology Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis Missouri USA
| | | | | | - Poornachandra Yedla
- Organic Synthesis & Process Chemistry CSIR‐Indian Institute of Chemical Technology Hyderabad India
| | - Ganesh Kumar Chityal
- Organic Synthesis & Process Chemistry CSIR‐Indian Institute of Chemical Technology Hyderabad India
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Parthasarathy A, Mantravadi PK, Kalesh K. Detectives and helpers: Natural products as resources for chemical probes and compound libraries. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 216:107688. [PMID: 32980442 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
About 70% of the drugs in use are derived from natural products, either used directly or in chemically modified form. Among all possible small molecules (not greater than 5 kDa), only a few of them are biologically active. Natural product libraries may have a higher rate of finding "hits" than synthetic libraries, even with the use of fewer compounds. This is due to the complementarity between the "chemical space" of small molecules and biological macromolecules such as proteins, DNA and RNA, in addition to the three-dimensional complexity of NPs. Chemical probes are molecules which aid in the elucidation of the biological mechanisms behind the action of drugs or drug-like molecules by binding with macromolecular/cellular interaction partners. Probe development and application have been spurred by advancements in photoaffinity label synthesis, affinity chromatography, activity based protein profiling (ABPP) and instrumental methods such as cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and advanced/hyphenated mass spectrometry (MS) techniques, as well as genome sequencing and bioengineering technologies. In this review, we restrict ourselves to a survey of natural products (including peptides/mini-proteins and excluding antibodies), which have been applied largely in the last 5 years for the target identification of drugs/drug-like molecules used in research on infectious diseases, and the description of their mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anutthaman Parthasarathy
- Rochester Institute of Technology, Thomas H. Gosnell School of Life Sciences, 85 Lomb Memorial Dr, Rochester, NY 14623, USA
| | | | - Karunakaran Kalesh
- Department of Chemistry, Durham University, Lower Mount Joy, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK.
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23
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Phosphate in Virulence of Candida albicans and Candida glabrata. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6020040. [PMID: 32224872 PMCID: PMC7344514 DOI: 10.3390/jof6020040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida species are the most commonly isolated invasive human fungal pathogens. A role for phosphate acquisition in their growth, resistance against host immune cells, and tolerance of important antifungal medications is becoming apparent. Phosphorus is an essential element in vital components of the cell, including chromosomes and ribosomes. Producing the energy currency of the cell, ATP, requires abundant inorganic phosphate. A comparison of the network of regulators and effectors that controls phosphate acquisition and intracellular distribution, the PHO regulon, between the model yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a plant saprobe, its evolutionarily close relative C. glabrata, and the more distantly related C. albicans, highlights the need to coordinate phosphate homeostasis with adenylate biosynthesis for ATP production. It also suggests that fungi that cope with phosphate starvation as they invade host tissues, may link phosphate acquisition to stress responses as an efficient mechanism of anticipatory regulation. Recent work indicates that connections among the PHO regulon, Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 signaling, oxidative stress management, and cell wall construction are based both in direct signaling links, and in the provision of phosphate for sufficient metabolic intermediates that are substrates in these processes. Fundamental differences in fungal and human phosphate homeostasis may offer novel drug targets.
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Inhibiting Fungal Echinocandin Resistance by Small-Molecule Disruption of Geranylgeranyltransferase Type I Activity. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2020; 64:AAC.02046-19. [PMID: 31791942 DOI: 10.1128/aac.02046-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Echinocandin resistance in Candida is a great concern, as the echinocandin drugs are recommended as first-line therapy for patients with invasive candidiasis. However, therapeutic efforts to thwart echinocandin resistance have been hampered by a lack of fungal specific drug targets. Here, we show that deleting CDC43, the β subunit of geranylgeranyltransferase type I (GGTase I), confers hypersensitivity to echinocandins, which renders GGTase I a tractable target in combatting echinocandin resistance. The membrane localization of Rho1, which is critical for (1,3)-β-d-glucan synthase Fks1 activation, is disrupted in the cdc43 mutant, resulting in decreased amounts of glucans in the cell wall, thereby exacerbating the cell wall stress upon caspofungin addition. Guided by this insight, we found that selective chemical inhibition of GGTase I by L-269289 potentiates echinocandin activity and renders echinocandin-resistant Candida albicans responsive to treatment in vitro and in animal models for disseminated infection. Furthermore, L-269289 and echinocandins also act in a synergistic manner for the treatment of Candida tropicalis and Candida parapsilosis Importantly, deletion of CDC43 is lethal in Candida glabrata L-269289 is active on its own to kill C. glabrata, and its fungicidal activity is enhanced when combined with caspofungin. Thus, targeting GGTase I has therapeutic potential to address the clinical challenge of echinocandin-resistant candidiasis.
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Ma Y, Yu H, Liu W, Qin Y, Xing R, Li P. Integrated proteomics and metabolomics analysis reveals the antifungal mechanism of the C-coordinated O-carboxymethyl chitosan Cu(II) complex. Int J Biol Macromol 2019; 155:1491-1509. [PMID: 31751736 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.11.127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
With wide application in agriculture, copper fungicides have undergone three stages of development: inorganic copper, synthetic organic copper, and natural organic copper. Using chitin/chitosan (CS) as a substrate, the natural organic copper fungicide C-coordinated O-carboxymethyl chitosan Cu(II) complex (O-CSLn-Cu) was developed in the laboratory. Taking Phytophthora capsici Leonian as an example, we explored the antifungal mechanism of O-CSLn-Cu by combining tandem mass tag (TMT)-based proteomics with non-targeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based metabolomics. A total of 1172 differentially expressed proteins were identified by proteomics analysis. According to the metabolomics analysis, 93 differentially metabolites were identified. Acetyl-CoA-related and membrane localized proteins showed significant differences in the proteomics analysis. Most of the differential expressed metabolites were distributed in the cytoplasm, followed by mitochondria. The integrated analysis revealed that O-CSLn-Cu could induce the "Warburg effect", with increased glycolysis in the cytoplasm and decreased metabolism in the mitochondria. Therefore, P. capsici Leonian had to compensate for ATP loss in the TCA cycle by increasing the glycolysis rate. However, this metabolic shift could not prevent the death of P. capsici Leonian. To verify this hypothesis, a series of biological experiments, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and enzyme activity measurements were carried out. The results suggest that O-CSLn-Cu causes mitochondrial injury, which consequently leads to excessive ROS levels and insufficient ATP levels, thereby killing P. capsici Leonian.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhen Ma
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Huahua Yu
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China.
| | - Weixiang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Yukun Qin
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Ronge Xing
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Pengcheng Li
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China.
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26
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Xue YP, Kao MC, Lan CY. Novel mitochondrial complex I-inhibiting peptides restrain NADH dehydrogenase activity. Sci Rep 2019; 9:13694. [PMID: 31548559 PMCID: PMC6757105 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50114-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of drug-resistant fungal pathogens is becoming increasingly serious due to overuse of antifungals. Antimicrobial peptides have potent activity against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including fungi, and are considered a potential new class of antifungals. In this study, we examined the activities of the newly designed peptides P-113Du and P-113Tri, together with their parental peptide P-113, against the human fungal pathogen Candida albicans. The results showed that these peptides inhibit mitochondrial complex I, specifically NADH dehydrogenase, of the electron transport chain. Moreover, P-113Du and P-113Tri also block alternative NADH dehydrogenases. Currently, most inhibitors of the mitochondrial complex I are small molecules or artificially-designed antibodies. Here, we demonstrated novel functions of antimicrobial peptides in inhibiting the mitochondrial complex I of C. albicans, providing insight in the development of new antifungal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Peng Xue
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing Hua University, No. 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Road, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Mou-Chieh Kao
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, No. 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Road, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan, ROC. .,Department of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, No. 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Road, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Chung-Yu Lan
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing Hua University, No. 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Road, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan, ROC. .,Department of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, No. 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Road, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan, ROC.
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Pervasive fungal infection among the immunocompromised population, in conjunction with a lack of effective treatment options, has demanded further scrutiny. Millions of people are still dying annually from fungal infections. While existing treatment for these fungal infections exists, it is difficult to administer without adverse effects in the immunocompromised and is slowly becoming obsolete due to varying mutation rates and rising resistance in multiple species. Thus, vaccines may be a viable target for preventing and treating fungal infections and addressing the critical challenge of such infections.
Recent Findings
Candida albicans, along with other non-albicans Candida species, is among the more virulent class of fungal specimens considered for vaccine development. C. albicans is responsible for a large percentage of invasive fungal infections among immunocompromised and immunocompetent populations and carries a relatively high mortality rate. In the last decade, a recent increase in infective capacity among Candida species has shed light on the lack of adequate fungal vaccine choices. While roadblocks still exist in the development of antifungal vaccines, several novel targets have been examined and proposed as candidates.
Summary
Success in vaccine development has universal appeal; an anti-Candida vaccine formulation could be modified to work against other fungal infections and thus bolster the antifungal pipeline.
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28
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Unten Y, Murai M, Yamamoto T, Watanabe A, Ichimaru N, Aburaya S, Aoki W, Shinohara Y, Miyoshi H. Pentenediol-Type Compounds Specifically Bind to Voltage-Dependent Anion Channel 1 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Mitochondria. Biochemistry 2019; 58:1141-1154. [PMID: 30657320 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.8b01209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) situated in the outer mitochondrial membrane regulates the transfer of various metabolites and is a key player in mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. Although many small chemicals that modulate the functions of VDAC1 have been reported to date, most, if not all, of them cannot be regarded as specific reagents due to their interactions with other transporters or enzymes. By screening our chemical libraries using isolated Saccharomyces cerevisiae mitochondria, we found pentenediol (PTD)-type compounds (e.g., PTD-023) as new specific inhibitors of VDAC1. PTD-023 inhibited overall ADP-uptake/ATP-release reactions in isolated mitochondria at a single digit μM level. To identify the binding position of PTDs in VDAC1 by visualizing PTD-bound peptides, we conducted ligand-directed tosyl (LDT) chemistry using the synthetic LDT reagent t-PTD-023 derived from the parent PTD-023 in combination with mutagenesis experiments. t-PTD-023 made a covalent bond predominantly and subsidiarily with nucleophilic Cys210 and Cys130, respectively, indicating that PTDs bind to the region interactive with both residues. Site-directed mutations of hydrogen bond-acceptable Asp139 and Glu152 to Ala, which were selected as potential interactive partners of the critical pentenediol moiety based on the presumed binding model of PTDs in VDAC1, resulted in a decrease in susceptibility against PTD-023. This result strongly suggests that PTDs bind to VDAC1 through a specific hydrogen bond with the two residues. The present study is the first to demonstrate the binding position of specific inhibitors of VDAC1 at the amino acid level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufu Unten
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture , Kyoto University , Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502 , Japan
| | - Masatoshi Murai
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture , Kyoto University , Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502 , Japan
| | - Takenori Yamamoto
- Institute for Genome Research , University of Tokushima , Kuramotocho-3 , Tokushima 770-8503 , Japan
| | - Akira Watanabe
- Institute for Genome Research , University of Tokushima , Kuramotocho-3 , Tokushima 770-8503 , Japan
| | - Naoya Ichimaru
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture , Kyoto University , Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502 , Japan
| | - Shunsuke Aburaya
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture , Kyoto University , Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502 , Japan
| | - Wataru Aoki
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture , Kyoto University , Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502 , Japan
| | - Yasuo Shinohara
- Institute for Genome Research , University of Tokushima , Kuramotocho-3 , Tokushima 770-8503 , Japan
| | - Hideto Miyoshi
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture , Kyoto University , Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502 , Japan
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29
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Sun H, Ansari MF, Battini N, Bheemanaboina RRY, Zhou CH. Novel potential artificial MRSA DNA intercalators: synthesis and biological evaluation of berberine-derived thiazolidinediones. Org Chem Front 2019. [DOI: 10.1039/c8qo01180j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Novel berberine-derived thiazolidinediones as potential artificial DNA intercalators were synthesized, and the preliminary mechanism suggested that active compound 6b could intercalate into MRSA DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Sun
- Institute of Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
- Key Laboratory of Applied Chemistry of Chongqing Municipality
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Southwest University
- Chongqing 400715
| | - Mohammad Fawad Ansari
- Institute of Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
- Key Laboratory of Applied Chemistry of Chongqing Municipality
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Southwest University
- Chongqing 400715
| | - Narsaiah Battini
- Institute of Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
- Key Laboratory of Applied Chemistry of Chongqing Municipality
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Southwest University
- Chongqing 400715
| | - Rammohan R. Yadav Bheemanaboina
- Institute of Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
- Key Laboratory of Applied Chemistry of Chongqing Municipality
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Southwest University
- Chongqing 400715
| | - Cheng-He Zhou
- Institute of Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
- Key Laboratory of Applied Chemistry of Chongqing Municipality
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Southwest University
- Chongqing 400715
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Efflux pump-mediated resistance to antifungal compounds can be prevented by conjugation with triphenylphosphonium cation. Nat Commun 2018; 9:5102. [PMID: 30504815 PMCID: PMC6269435 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-07633-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Antifungal resistance due to upregulation of efflux pumps is prevalent in clinical Candida isolates. Potential efflux pump substrates (PEPSs), which are active against strains deficient in efflux pumps but inactive against wild-type strains, are usually missed in routine antifungal screening. Here we present a method for identification of PEPSs, and show that conjugation with mitochondria-targeting triphenylphosphonium cation (TPP+) can enhance or restore the compounds’ antifungal activity. The screening method involves co-culturing a wild-type C. albicans strain and a Cdr efflux pump-deficient strain, labelled with different fluorescent proteins. We identify several PEPSs from a library of natural terpenes, and restore their antifungal activity against wild-type and azole-resistant C. albicans by conjugation with TPP+. The most active conjugate (IS-2-Pi-TPP) kills C. albicans cells, prevents biofilm formation and eliminates preformed biofilms, without inducing significant resistance. The antifungal activity is accompanied by mitochondrial dysfunction and increased levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species. In addition, IS-2-Pi-TPP is effective against C. albicans in a mouse model of skin infection. Antifungal resistance due to upregulation of efflux pumps is common in Candida albicans. Here, the authors show that conjugation with mitochondria-targeting triphenylphosphonium cation can enhance or restore the antifungal activity of potential efflux pump substrates.
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31
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Potential targets for the development of new antifungal drugs. J Antibiot (Tokyo) 2018; 71:978-991. [DOI: 10.1038/s41429-018-0100-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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32
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Novel carbazole-triazole conjugates as DNA-targeting membrane active potentiators against clinical isolated fungi. Eur J Med Chem 2018; 155:579-589. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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