1
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Fink A, Ben Hur D, Wani NA, Cohen H, Segev-Zarko LA, Arnusch CJ, Shai Y. Development of Nontoxic Peptides for Lipopolysaccharide Neutralization and Sepsis Treatment. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:1795-1806. [PMID: 38898940 PMCID: PMC11184611 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.4c00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Host defense peptides (HDPs), also named antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), are increasingly being recognized for serving multiple functions in protecting the host from infection and disease. Previous studies have shown that various HDPs can also neutralize lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin), as well as lipoteichoic acid (LTA), inducing macrophage activation. However, antimicrobial activity is usually accompanied by systemic toxicity which makes it difficult to use HDPs as antiendotoxin agents. Here we report that key parameters can uncouple these two functions yielding nontoxic peptides with potent LPS and LTA neutralization activities in vitro and in animal models. The data reveal that peptide length, the number, and the placement of positive charges are important parameters involved in LPS neutralization. Crucially, the peptide exhibited a separation between its membrane-disrupting and antimicrobial properties, effectively decoupling them from its ability to neutralize LPS. This essential distinction prevented systemic toxicity and led to the peptide's complete rescue of mice suffering from severe septic shock in two distinct models. Strong binding to LPS, changes in structure, and oligomerization state upon LPS binding were important factors that determined the activity of the peptides. In the face of the increasing threat of septic shock worldwide, it is crucial to grasp how we can neutralize harmful substances like LPS. This knowledge is vital for creating nontoxic treatments for sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avner Fink
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
- MilliporeSigma
Life Science, Kiryat
Hamada 13, 9777613 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Daniel Ben Hur
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Naiem Ahmad Wani
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Hadar Cohen
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Li-Av Segev-Zarko
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Christopher J. Arnusch
- Department
of Desalination and Water Treatment, Zuckerberg Institute for Water
Research, Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede-Boqer Campus 8499000, Israel
| | - Yechiel Shai
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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2
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Tiwari K, Patel P, Mondal AH, Mukhopadhyay K. Interaction with lipopolysaccharide is key to efficacy of tryptophan- and arginine-rich α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogs against Gram-negative bacteria. Future Microbiol 2024; 19:195-211. [PMID: 38126934 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2023-0080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: In order to search for novel antibacterial therapeutics against Gram-negative bacteria, the antibacterial efficacies and mechanism of action of tryptophan- and arginine-rich α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogs were investigated. Materials & methods: We performed a killing assay to determine their efficacy; fluorescence, microscopic studies were used to understand their mechanism and peptide-lipopolysaccharide interaction. A checkerboard assay was used to find the effective combination of peptide and antibiotics. Results: Ana-peptides displayed good killing activity against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Their strong interaction with lipopolysaccharide damaged the bacterial membranes and led to their subsequent death. Ana-5, the highest cationic and hydrophobic analog, emerged as the most potent peptide, showing synergistic action with rifampicin and erythromycin. Conclusion: Ana-5 can be presented as an important therapeutic candidate against bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Tiwari
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Priya Patel
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Aftab H Mondal
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Kasturi Mukhopadhyay
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
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3
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Puthia M, Petrlova J, Petruk G, Butrym M, Samsudin F, Andersson MÅ, Strömdahl AC, Wasserstrom S, Hartman E, Kjellström S, Caselli L, Klementieva O, Bond PJ, Malmsten M, Raina DB, Schmidtchen A. Bioactive Suture with Added Innate Defense Functionality for the Reduction of Bacterial Infection and Inflammation. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300987. [PMID: 37689972 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300987] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Surgical site infections (SSI) are a clinical and economic burden. Suture-associated SSI may develop when bacteria colonize the suture surface and form biofilms that are resistant to antibiotics. Thrombin-derived C-terminal peptide (TCP)-25 is a host defense peptide with a unique dual mode of action that can target both bacteria and the excessive inflammation induced by bacterial products. The peptide demonstrates therapeutic potential in preclinical in vivo wound infection models. In this study, the authors set out to explore whether TCP-25 can provide a new bioactive innate immune feature to hydrophilic polyglactin sutures (Vicryl). Using a combination of biochemical, biophysical, antibacterial, biofilm, and anti-inflammatory assays in vitro, in silico molecular modeling studies, along with experimental infection and inflammation models in mice, a proof-of-concept that TCP-25 can provide Vicryl sutures with a previously undisclosed host defense capacity, that enables targeting of bacteria, biofilms, and the accompanying inflammatory response, is shown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Puthia
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, SE-22184, Sweden
| | - Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, SE-22184, Sweden
| | - Ganna Petruk
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, SE-22184, Sweden
| | - Marta Butrym
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, SE-22184, Sweden
| | - Firdaus Samsudin
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138671, Singapore
| | - Madelene Å Andersson
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, SE-22184, Sweden
| | - Ann-Charlotte Strömdahl
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, SE-22184, Sweden
| | | | - Erik Hartman
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, SE-22184, Sweden
| | - Sven Kjellström
- Division of Mass Spectrometry, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, SE-22184, Sweden
| | | | - Oxana Klementieva
- Medical Microspectroscopy Lab, Department of Experimental Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, SE-221 84, Sweden
| | - Peter J Bond
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138671, Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Martin Malmsten
- Physical Chemistry 1, Lund University, Lund, S-221 00, Sweden
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Deepak Bushan Raina
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, SE-221 84, Sweden
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, SE-22184, Sweden
- Dermatology, Skane University Hospital, Lund, SE-22185, Sweden
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4
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Petrlova J, Hartman E, Petruk G, Lim JCH, Adav SS, Kjellström S, Puthia M, Schmidtchen A. Selective protein aggregation confines and inhibits endotoxins in wounds: Linking host defense to amyloid formation. iScience 2023; 26:107951. [PMID: 37817942 PMCID: PMC10561040 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces rapid protein aggregation in human wound fluid. We aimed to characterize these LPS-induced aggregates and their functional implications using a combination of mass spectrometry analyses, biochemical assays, biological imaging, cell experiments, and animal models. The wound-fluid aggregates encompass diverse protein classes, including sequences from coagulation factors, annexins, histones, antimicrobial proteins/peptides, and apolipoproteins. We identified proteins and peptides with a high aggregation propensity and verified selected components through Western blot analysis. Thioflavin T and Amytracker staining revealed amyloid-like aggregates formed after exposure to LPS in vitro in human wound fluid and in vivo in porcine wound models. Using NF-κB-reporter mice and IVIS bioimaging, we demonstrate that such wound-fluid LPS aggregates induce a significant reduction in local inflammation compared with LPS in plasma. The results show that protein/peptide aggregation is a mechanism for confining LPS and reducing inflammation, further emphasizing the connection between host defense and amyloidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Erik Hartman
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Ganna Petruk
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Jeremy Chun Hwee Lim
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Sunil Shankar Adav
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sven Kjellström
- Department of Clinical Sciences, BioMS, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Manoj Puthia
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
- Dermatology, Skane University Hospital, 22185 Lund, Sweden
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5
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Petruk G, Puthia M, Samsudin F, Petrlova J, Olm F, Mittendorfer M, Hyllén S, Edström D, Strömdahl AC, Diehl C, Ekström S, Walse B, Kjellström S, Bond PJ, Lindstedt S, Schmidtchen A. Targeting Toll-like receptor-driven systemic inflammation by engineering an innate structural fold into drugs. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6097. [PMID: 37773180 PMCID: PMC10541425 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41702-y] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a clinical need for conceptually new treatments that target the excessive activation of inflammatory pathways during systemic infection. Thrombin-derived C-terminal peptides (TCPs) are endogenous anti-infective immunomodulators interfering with CD14-mediated TLR-dependent immune responses. Here we describe the development of a peptide-based compound for systemic use, sHVF18, expressing the evolutionarily conserved innate structural fold of natural TCPs. Using a combination of structure- and in silico-based design, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, biophysics, mass spectrometry, cellular, and in vivo studies, we here elucidate the structure, CD14 interactions, protease stability, transcriptome profiling, and therapeutic efficacy of sHVF18. The designed peptide displays a conformationally stabilized, protease resistant active innate fold and targets the LPS-binding groove of CD14. In vivo, it shows therapeutic efficacy in experimental models of endotoxin shock in mice and pigs and increases survival in mouse models of systemic polymicrobial infection. The results provide a drug class based on Nature´s own anti-infective principles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganna Petruk
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Manoj Puthia
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden
| | - Firdaus Samsudin
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138671, Singapore
| | - Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden
| | - Franziska Olm
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Snejana Hyllén
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Skåne University Hospital, SE-22185, Lund, Sweden
| | - Dag Edström
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Skåne University Hospital, SE-22185, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ann-Charlotte Strömdahl
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden
| | - Carl Diehl
- SARomics Biostructures AB, Medicon Village, SE-22381, Lund, Sweden
| | - Simon Ekström
- BioMS - Swedish National Infrastructure for Biological Mass Spectrometry, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden
| | - Björn Walse
- SARomics Biostructures AB, Medicon Village, SE-22381, Lund, Sweden
| | - Sven Kjellström
- Division of Mass Spectrometry, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden
| | - Peter J Bond
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138671, Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Sandra Lindstedt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Skåne University Hospital, SE-22185, Lund, Sweden
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden
- Dermatology, Skane University Hospital, SE-22185, Lund, Sweden
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6
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Li X, Qu S, Song X, Wu C, Shen J, Zhu K. In Situ Neutralization and Detoxification of LPS to Attenuate Hyperinflammation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2302950. [PMID: 37428467 PMCID: PMC10502683 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Hyperinflammation elicited by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) that derives from multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens, leads to a sharp increase in mortality globally. However, monotherapies aiming to neutralize LPS often fail to improve the prognosis. Here, an all-in-one drug delivery strategy equipped with bactericidal activity, LPS neutralization, and detoxification is shown to recognize, kill pathogens, and attenuate hyperinflammation by abolishing the activation of LPS-triggered acute inflammatory responses. First, bactericidal colistin results in rapid bacterial killing, and the released LPS is subsequently sequestered. The neutralized LPS is further cleared by acyloxyacyl hydrolase to remove secondary fatty chains and detoxify LPS in situ. Last, such a system shows high efficacy in two mouse infection models challenged with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This approach integrates direct antibacterial activity with in situ LPS neutralizing and detoxifying properties, shedding light on the development of alternative interventions to treat sepsis-associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Li
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health SecurityCollege of Veterinary MedicineChina Agricultural UniversityBeijing100193China
| | - Shaoqi Qu
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health SecurityCollege of Veterinary MedicineChina Agricultural UniversityBeijing100193China
| | - Xiangbin Song
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health SecurityCollege of Veterinary MedicineChina Agricultural UniversityBeijing100193China
| | - Congming Wu
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health SecurityCollege of Veterinary MedicineChina Agricultural UniversityBeijing100193China
| | - Jianzhong Shen
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health SecurityCollege of Veterinary MedicineChina Agricultural UniversityBeijing100193China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureGuangzhou510642China
| | - Kui Zhu
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health SecurityCollege of Veterinary MedicineChina Agricultural UniversityBeijing100193China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureGuangzhou510642China
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7
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Cohen H, Wani NA, Ben Hur D, Migliolo L, Cardoso MH, Porat Z, Shimoni E, Franco OL, Shai Y. Interaction of Pexiganan (MSI-78)-Derived Analogues Reduces Inflammation and TLR4-Mediated Cytokine Secretion: A Comparative Study. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:17856-17868. [PMID: 37251186 PMCID: PMC10210221 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c00850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections have increased the prevalence of sepsis and septic shock mortality worldwide and have become a global concern. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) show remarkable properties for developing new antimicrobial agents and host response modulatory therapies. A new series of AMPs derived from pexiganan (MSI-78) were synthesized. The positively charged amino acids were segregated at their N- and C-termini, and the rest of the amino acids created a hydrophobic core surrounded by positive charges and were modified to simulate the lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The peptides were investigated for their antimicrobial activity and LPS-induced cytokine release inhibition profile. Various biochemical and biophysical methods were used, including attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, microscale thermophoresis (MST), and electron microscopy. Two new AMPs, MSI-Seg-F2F and MSI-N7K, preserved their neutralizing endotoxin activity while reducing toxicity and hemolytic activity. Combining all of these properties makes the designed peptides potential candidates to eradicate bacterial infection and detoxify LPS, which might be useful for sepsis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadar Cohen
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Naiem Ahmad Wani
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Daniel Ben Hur
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Ludovico Migliolo
- Departamento
de Engenharia Sanitária e Ambiental, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande 79117-900, Brazil
| | - Marlon H. Cardoso
- S-Inova,
Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande 79117900, MS, Brazil
- Centro
de
Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-Graduação
em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília 70790160, DF, Brazil
- Instituto
de Biociências (INBIO), Universidade
Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Cidade Universitária, Campo Grande 79070900, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Ziv Porat
- The
Department of Life Sciences Core Facilities, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Eyal Shimoni
- Department
of Chemical Research Support, The Weizmann
Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Octavio Luiz Franco
- Departamento
de Engenharia Sanitária e Ambiental, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande 79117-900, Brazil
- S-Inova,
Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande 79117900, MS, Brazil
- Centro
de
Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-Graduação
em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília 70790160, DF, Brazil
| | - Yechiel Shai
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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8
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Gong H, Hu X, Zhang L, Fa K, Liao M, Liu H, Fragneto G, Campana M, Lu JR. How do antimicrobial peptides disrupt the lipopolysaccharide membrane leaflet of Gram-negative bacteria? J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 637:182-192. [PMID: 36701864 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.01.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS It is widely regarded that antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) kill bacteria by physically disrupting microbial membranes and causing cytoplasmic leakage, but it remains unclear how AMPs disrupt the outer membrane (OM) of Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) and then compromise the inner membrane. We hypothesise that different AMPs impose different structural disruptions, with direct implications to their antimicrobial efficacies. EXPERIMENTS The antimicrobial activities of three typical AMPs, including the designed short AMP, G3, and two natural AMPs, melittin and LL37, against E. coli and their haemolytic activities were studied. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and anionic di-palmitoyl phosphatidyl glycerol (DPPG) monolayer models were constructed to mimic the outer membrane and inner membrane leaflets of Gram-negative bacteria. The binding and penetration of AMPs to the model lipid monolayers were systematically studied by neutron reflection via multiple H/D contrast variations. FINDING G3 has relatively high antimicrobial activity, low cytotoxicity, and high proteolytic stability, whilst melittin has significant haemolysis and LL37 has weaker antimicrobial activity. G3 could rapidly lyse LPS and DPPG monolayers within 10-20 min. In contrast, melittin was highly active against the LPS membrane, but the dynamic process lasted up to 80 min, with excessive stacking in the OM. LL37 caused rather weak destruction to LPS and DPPG monolayers, leading to massive adsorption on the membrane surface without penetrating the lipid tail region. These findings demonstrate that the rationally designed AMP G3 was well optimised to impose most effective destruction to bacterial membranes, consistent with its highest bactericidal activity. These different interfacial structural features associated with AMP binding shed light on the future development of active and biocompatible AMPs for infection and wound treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoning Gong
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; State Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, PR China
| | - Xuzhi Hu
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Lin Zhang
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Ke Fa
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Mingrui Liao
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Huayang Liu
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | | | - Mario Campana
- ISIS Pulsed Neutron & Muon Source, STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Didcot OX11 0QX, UK
| | - Jian Ren Lu
- Biological Physics Laboratory, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
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9
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Reactive metal boride nanoparticles trap lipopolysaccharide and peptidoglycan for bacteria-infected wound healing. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7353. [PMID: 36446788 PMCID: PMC9708144 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35050-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria and excessive inflammation are two main factors causing non-healing wounds. However, current studies have mainly focused on the inhibition of bacteria survival for wound healing while ignoring the excessive inflammation induced by dead bacteria-released lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or peptidoglycan (PGN). Herein, a boron-trapping strategy has been proposed to prevent both infection and excessive inflammation by synthesizing a class of reactive metal boride nanoparticles (MB NPs). Our results show that the MB NPs are gradually hydrolyzed to generate boron dihydroxy groups and metal cations while generating a local alkaline microenvironment. This microenvironment greatly enhances boron dihydroxy groups to trap LPS or PGN through an esterification reaction, which not only enhances metal cation-induced bacterial death but also inhibits dead bacteria-induced excessive inflammation both in vitro and in vivo, finally accelerating wound healing. Taken together, this boron-trapping strategy provides an approach to the treatment of bacterial infection and the accompanying inflammation.
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10
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Zhang M, Ouyang J, Fu L, Xu C, Ge Y, Sun S, Li X, Lai S, Ke H, Yuan B, Yang K, Yu H, Gao L, Wang Y. Hydrophobicity Determines the Bacterial Killing Rate of α-Helical Antimicrobial Peptides and Influences the Bacterial Resistance Development. J Med Chem 2022; 65:14701-14720. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Zhang
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu215123, China
| | - Jianhong Ouyang
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu215123, China
| | - Lei Fu
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing100875, China
| | - Cheng Xu
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou215006Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuke Ge
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou215006Jiangsu, China
| | - Shuqing Sun
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou215006Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiangyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing100875, China
| | - Shian Lai
- Department of Molecular Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Kyoto610-0394, Japan
| | - Hengte Ke
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu215123, China
| | - Bing Yuan
- Songshan Lake Materials Laboratory, Dongguan, Guangdong523808, China
| | - Kai Yang
- Center for Soft Condensed Matter Physics and Interdisciplinary Research & School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou215006Jiangsu, China
| | - Haining Yu
- School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning116024, China
| | - Lianghui Gao
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing100875, China
| | - Yipeng Wang
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu215123, China
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11
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Wesseling CJ, Martin NI. Synergy by Perturbing the Gram-Negative Outer Membrane: Opening the Door for Gram-Positive Specific Antibiotics. ACS Infect Dis 2022; 8:1731-1757. [PMID: 35946799 PMCID: PMC9469101 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
New approaches to target antibacterial agents toward Gram-negative bacteria are key, given the rise of antibiotic resistance. Since the discovery of polymyxin B nonapeptide as a potent Gram-negative outer membrane (OM)-permeabilizing synergist in the early 1980s, a vast amount of literature on such synergists has been published. This Review addresses a range of peptide-based and small organic compounds that disrupt the OM to elicit a synergistic effect with antibiotics that are otherwise inactive toward Gram-negative bacteria, with synergy defined as a fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) of <0.5. Another requirement for the inclusion of the synergists here covered is their potentiation of a specific set of clinically used antibiotics: erythromycin, rifampicin, novobiocin, or vancomycin. In addition, we have focused on those synergists with reported activity against Gram-negative members of the ESKAPE family of pathogens namely, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and/or Acinetobacter baumannii. In cases where the FICI values were not directly reported in the primary literature but could be calculated from the published data, we have done so, allowing for more direct comparison of potency with other synergists. We also address the hemolytic activity of the various OM-disrupting synergists reported in the literature, an effect that is often downplayed but is of key importance in assessing the selectivity of such compounds for Gram-negative bacteria.
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12
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Petrlova J, Samsudin F, Bond PJ, Schmidtchen A. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein aggregation is triggered by bacterial lipopolysaccharide. FEBS Lett 2022; 596:2566-2575. [PMID: 36050806 PMCID: PMC9538650 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein is crucial for virus invasion in COVID-19. Here, we showed that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can trigger S protein aggregation at high doses of LPS and S protein. We demonstrated the formation of S protein aggregates by microscopy analyses, aggregation and gel shift assays. LPS at high levels boosts the formation of S protein aggregates as detected by amytracker and thioflavin T dyes that specifically bind to aggregating proteins. We validated the role of LPS by blocking the formation of aggregates by the endotoxin-scavenging thrombin-derived peptide TCP-25. Aggregation-prone sequences in S protein are predicted to be nearby LPS binding sites, while molecular simulations showed stable formation of S protein-LPS higher-order oligomers. Collectively, our results provide evidence of LPS-induced S protein aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden
| | - Firdaus Samsudin
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138671, Singapore
| | - Peter J Bond
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138671, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, 117543
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184, Lund, Sweden.,Copenhagen Wound Healing Center, Bispebjerg Hospital, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2400, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Dermatology, Skåne University Hospital, SE-22185, Lund, Sweden
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13
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Pranantyo D, Zhang K, Si Z, Hou Z, Chan-Park MB. Smart Multifunctional Polymer Systems as Alternatives or Supplements of Antibiotics To Overcome Bacterial Resistance. Biomacromolecules 2022; 23:1873-1891. [PMID: 35471022 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.1c01614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, infectious diseases have again become a critical threat to global public health largely due to the challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance. Conventional antibiotics have played a crucial role in combating bacterial infections; however, their efficacy is significantly impaired by widespread drug resistance. Natural antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and their polymeric mimics demonstrate great potential for killing bacteria with low propensity of resistance as they target the microbial membrane rather than a specific molecular target, but they are also toxic to the host eukaryotic cells. To minimize antibiotics systemic spread and the required dose that promote resistance and to advocate practical realization of the promising activity of AMPs and polymers, smart systems to target bacteria are highly sought after. This review presents bacterial recognition by various specific targeting molecules and the delivery systems of active components in supramolecules. Bacteria-induced activations of antimicrobial-based nanoformulations are also included. Recent advances in the bacteria targeting and delivery of synthetic antimicrobial agents may assist in developing new classes of highly selective antimicrobial systems which can improve bactericidal efficacy and greatly minimize the spread of bacterial resistance.
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14
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Atomic-Resolution Structures and Mode of Action of Clinically Relevant Antimicrobial Peptides. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094558. [PMID: 35562950 PMCID: PMC9100274 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Global rise of infections and deaths caused by drug-resistant bacterial pathogens are among the unmet medical needs. In an age of drying pipeline of novel antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are proven to be valid therapeutics modalities. Direct in vivo applications of many AMPs could be challenging; however, works are demonstrating encouraging results for some of them. In this review article, we discussed 3-D structures of potent AMPs e.g., polymyxin, thanatin, MSI, protegrin, OMPTA in complex with bacterial targets and their mode of actions. Studies on human peptide LL37 and de novo-designed peptides are also discussed. We have focused on AMPs which are effective against drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Since treatment options for the infections caused by super bugs of Gram-negative bacteria are now extremely limited. We also summarize some of the pertinent challenges in the field of clinical trials of AMPs.
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15
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Puthia M, Tanner L, Petruk G, Schmidtchen A. Experimental Model of Pulmonary Inflammation Induced by SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Endotoxin. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:141-148. [PMID: 35774232 PMCID: PMC9239546 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.1c00219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 is characterized by a dysregulated and excessive inflammatory response and, in severe cases, acute respiratory distress syndrome. We have recently demonstrated a previously unknown high-affinity interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein and bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), leading to the boosting of inflammation. Here we present a mouse inflammation model employing the coadministration of aerosolized S protein together with LPS to the lungs. Using NF-κB-RE-Luc reporter and C57BL/6 mice followed by combinations of bioimaging, cytokine, chemokine, fluorescence-activated cell sorting, and histochemistry analyses, we show that the model yields severe pulmonary inflammation and a cytokine profile similar to that observed in COVID-19. Therefore, the model offers utility for analyses of the pathophysiological features of COVID-19 and the development of new treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Puthia
- Division
of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden,
| | - Lloyd Tanner
- Division
of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Ganna Petruk
- Division
of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division
of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden,Bispebjerg
Hospital, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
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16
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Escobar‐Salom M, Torrens G, Jordana‐Lluch E, Oliver A, Juan C. Mammals' humoral immune proteins and peptides targeting the bacterial envelope: from natural protection to therapeutic applications against multidrug‐resistant
Gram
‐negatives. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2022; 97:1005-1037. [PMID: 35043558 PMCID: PMC9304279 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian innate immunity employs several humoral ‘weapons’ that target the bacterial envelope. The threats posed by the multidrug‐resistant ‘ESKAPE’ Gram‐negative pathogens (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp.) are forcing researchers to explore new therapeutic options, including the use of these immune elements. Here we review bacterial envelope‐targeting (peptidoglycan and/or membrane‐targeting) proteins/peptides of the mammalian immune system that are most likely to have therapeutic applications. Firstly we discuss their general features and protective activity against ESKAPE Gram‐negatives in the host. We then gather, integrate, and discuss recent research on experimental therapeutics harnessing their bactericidal power, based on their exogenous administration and also on the discovery of bacterial and/or host targets that improve the performance of this endogenous immunity, as a novel therapeutic concept. We identify weak points and knowledge gaps in current research in this field and suggest areas for future work to obtain successful envelope‐targeting therapeutic options to tackle the challenge of antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Escobar‐Salom
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
| | - Gabriel Torrens
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
| | - Elena Jordana‐Lluch
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
| | - Antonio Oliver
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
| | - Carlos Juan
- Department of Microbiology University Hospital Son Espases‐Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa) Carretera de Valldemossa 79 Palma Balearic Islands 07010 Spain
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17
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Schmidtchen A, Puthia M. Rapid in vitro and in vivo Evaluation of Antimicrobial Formulations Using Bioluminescent Pathogenic Bacteria. Bio Protoc 2022; 12:e4302. [DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
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18
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Siepi M, Oliva R, Masino A, Gaglione R, Arciello A, Russo R, Di Maro A, Zanfardino A, Varcamonti M, Petraccone L, Del Vecchio P, Merola M, Pizzo E, Notomista E, Cafaro V. Environment-Sensitive Fluorescent Labelling of Peptides by Luciferin Analogues. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413312. [PMID: 34948103 PMCID: PMC8706149 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Environment-sensitive fluorophores are very valuable tools in the study of molecular and cellular processes. When used to label proteins and peptides, they allow for the monitoring of even small variations in the local microenvironment, thus acting as reporters of conformational variations and binding events. Luciferin and aminoluciferin, well known substrates of firefly luciferase, are environment-sensitive fluorophores with unusual and still-unexploited properties. Both fluorophores show strong solvatochromism. Moreover, luciferin fluorescence is influenced by pH and water abundance. These features allow to detect local variations of pH, solvent polarity and local water concentration, even when they occur simultaneously, by analyzing excitation and emission spectra. Here, we describe the characterization of (amino)luciferin-labeled derivatives of four bioactive peptides: the antimicrobial peptides GKY20 and ApoBL, the antitumor peptide p53pAnt and the integrin-binding peptide RGD. The two probes allowed for the study of the interaction of the peptides with model membranes, SDS micelles, lipopolysaccharide micelles and Escherichia coli cells. Kd values and binding stoichiometries for lipopolysaccharide were also determined. Aminoluciferin also proved to be very well-suited to confocal laser scanning microscopy. Overall, the characterization of the labeled peptides demonstrates that luciferin and aminoluciferin are previously neglected environment-sensitive labels with widespread potential applications in the study of proteins and peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marialuisa Siepi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (A.Z.); (M.V.); (M.M.); (E.P.); (V.C.)
| | - Rosario Oliva
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (R.O.); (R.G.); (A.A.); (L.P.); (P.D.V.)
| | - Antonio Masino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (A.Z.); (M.V.); (M.M.); (E.P.); (V.C.)
| | - Rosa Gaglione
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (R.O.); (R.G.); (A.A.); (L.P.); (P.D.V.)
| | - Angela Arciello
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (R.O.); (R.G.); (A.A.); (L.P.); (P.D.V.)
| | - Rosita Russo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (R.R.); (A.D.M.)
| | - Antimo Di Maro
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (R.R.); (A.D.M.)
| | - Anna Zanfardino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (A.Z.); (M.V.); (M.M.); (E.P.); (V.C.)
| | - Mario Varcamonti
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (A.Z.); (M.V.); (M.M.); (E.P.); (V.C.)
| | - Luigi Petraccone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (R.O.); (R.G.); (A.A.); (L.P.); (P.D.V.)
| | - Pompea Del Vecchio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (R.O.); (R.G.); (A.A.); (L.P.); (P.D.V.)
| | - Marcello Merola
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (A.Z.); (M.V.); (M.M.); (E.P.); (V.C.)
| | - Elio Pizzo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (A.Z.); (M.V.); (M.M.); (E.P.); (V.C.)
| | - Eugenio Notomista
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (A.Z.); (M.V.); (M.M.); (E.P.); (V.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Valeria Cafaro
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (A.Z.); (M.V.); (M.M.); (E.P.); (V.C.)
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19
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Thrombin-Derived C-Terminal Peptide Reduces Candida-Induced Inflammation and Infection In Vitro and In Vivo. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2021; 65:e0103221. [PMID: 34424043 PMCID: PMC8522777 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01032-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections due to the opportunistic fungus Candida have been on the rise in the last decades, especially in immunocompromised individuals and hospital settings. Unfortunately, the treatments available today are limited. Thrombin-derived C-terminal peptide (TCP-25) is an antimicrobial peptide (AMP) with antibacterial and immunomodulatory effects. In this work, we, for the first time, demonstrate the ability of TCP-25 ability to counteract Candidain vitro and in vivo. Using a combination of viable count assay (VCA), radial diffusion assay (RDA), and fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy analyses, TCP-25 was found to exert a direct fungicidal activity. An inhibitory activity of TCP-25 on NF-κB activation induced by both zymosan alone and heat-killed C. albicans was demonstrated in vitro using THP-1 cells, and in vivo using NF-κB reporter mice. Moreover, the immunomodulatory property of TCP-25 was further substantiated in vitro by analyzing cytokine responses in human blood stimulated with zymosan, and in vivo employing a zymosan-induced peritonitis model in C57BL/6 mice. The therapeutic potential of TCP-25 was demonstrated in mice infected with luminescent C. albicans. Finally, the binding between TCP-25 and zymosan was investigated using circular dichroism spectroscopy and intrinsic fluorescence analysis. Taken together, our results show that TCP-25 has a dual function by inhibiting Candida as well as the associated zymosan-induced inflammation. The latter function is accompanied by a change in secondary structure upon binding to zymosan. TCP-25, therefore, shows promise as a novel drug candidate against Candida infections.
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20
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Ilyas H, van der Plas MJA, Agnoletti M, Kumar S, Mandal AK, Atreya HS, Bhunia A, Malmsten M. Effect of PEGylation on Host Defense Peptide Complexation with Bacterial Lipopolysaccharide. Bioconjug Chem 2021; 32:1729-1741. [PMID: 34282895 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.1c00259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Conjugation with poly(ethylene glycol) ("PEGylation") is a widely used approach for improving the therapeutic propensities of peptide and protein drugs through prolonging bloodstream circulation, reducing toxicity and immunogenicity, and improving proteolytic stability. In the present study, we investigate how PEGylation affects the interaction of host defense peptides (HDPs) with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) as well as HDP suppression of LPS-induced cell activation. In particular, we investigate the effects of PEGylation site for KYE28 (KYEITTIHNLFRKLTHRLFRRNFGYTLR), a peptide displaying potent anti-inflammatory effects, primarily provided by its N-terminal part. PEGylation was performed either in the N-terminus, the C-terminus, or in both termini, keeping the total number of ethylene groups (n = 48) constant. Ellipsometry showed KYE28 to exhibit pronounced affinity to both LPS and its hydrophobic lipid A moiety. The PEGylated peptide variants displayed lower, but comparable, affinity for both LPS and lipid A, irrespective of the PEGylation site. Furthermore, both KYE28 and its PEGylated variants triggered LPS aggregate disruption. To investigate the peptide structure in such LPS complexes, a battery of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods was employed. From this, it was found that KYE28 formed a well-folded structure after LPS binding, stabilized by hydrophobic domains involving aromatic amino acids as well as by electrostatic interactions. In contrast, the PEGylated peptide variants displayed a less well-defined secondary structure, suggesting weaker LPS interactions in line with the ellipsometry findings. Nevertheless, the N-terminal part of KYE28 retained helix formation after PEGylation, irrespective of the conjugation site. For THP1-Xblue-CD14 reporter cells, KYE28 displayed potent suppression of LPS activation at simultaneously low cell toxicity. Interestingly, the PEGylated KYE28 variants displayed similar or improved suppression of LPS-induced cell activation, implying the underlying key role of the largely retained helical structure close to the N-terminus, irrespective of PEGylation site. Taken together, the results show that PEGylation of HDPs can be done insensitively to the conjugation site without losing anti-inflammatory effects, even for peptides inducing such effects through one of its termini.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humaira Ilyas
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, P-1/12 CIT Scheme VII (M), Kolkata 700054, India
| | - Mariena J A van der Plas
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-221 84 Lund, Sweden
| | - Monica Agnoletti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sourav Kumar
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, P-1/12 CIT Scheme VII (M), Kolkata 700054, India
| | - Atin Kumar Mandal
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, P-1/12 CIT Scheme VII (M), Kolkata 700054, India
| | - Hanudatta S Atreya
- NMR Research Center, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Anirban Bhunia
- Department of Biophysics, Bose Institute, P-1/12 CIT Scheme VII (M), Kolkata 700054, India
| | - Martin Malmsten
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Physical Chemistry 1, University of Lund, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden
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21
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Strömdahl AC, Ignatowicz L, Petruk G, Butrym M, Wasserstrom S, Schmidtchen A, Puthia M. Peptide-coated polyurethane material reduces wound infection and inflammation. Acta Biomater 2021; 128:314-331. [PMID: 33951491 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.04.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
There is an urgent need for treatments that not only reduce bacterial infection that occurs during wounding but that also target the accompanying excessive inflammatory response. TCP-25, a thrombin-derived antibacterial peptide, scavenges toll-like receptor agonists such as endotoxins and lipoteichoic acid and prevents toll-like receptor-4 dimerization to reduce infection-related inflammation in vivo. Using a combination of biophysical, cellular, and microbiological assays followed by experimental studies in mouse and pig models, we show that TCP-25, when delivered from a polyurethane (PU) material, exerts anti-infective and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and in vivo. Specifically, TCP-25 killed the common wound pathogens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, in both in vitro and in vivo assays. Furthermore, after its release from the PU material, the peptide retained its capacity to induce its helical conformation upon endotoxin interaction, yielding reduced activation of NF-κB in THP-1 reporter cells, and diminished accumulation of inflammatory cells and subsequent release of IL-6 and TNF-α in subcutaneous implant models in vivo. Moreover, in a porcine partial thickness wound infection model, TCP-25 treated infection with S. aureus, and reduced the concomitant inflammatory response. Taken together, these findings demonstrate a combined antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect of TCP-25 delivered from PU in vitro, and in mouse and porcine in vivo models of localized infection-inflammation. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Local wound infections may result in systemic complications and can be difficult to treat due to increasing antimicrobial resistance. Surgical site infections and biomaterial-related infections present a major challenge for hospitals. In recent years, various antimicrobial coatings have been developed for infection prevention and current concepts focus on various matrices with added anti-infective components, including various antibiotics and antiseptics. We have developed a dual action wound dressing concept where the host defense peptide TCP-25, when delivered from a PU material, targets both bacterial infection and the accompanying inflammation. TCP-25 PU showed efficacy in in vitro and experimental wound models in mouse and minipigs.
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22
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Zhao Y, Pu M, Zhang J, Wang Y, Yan X, Yu L, He Z. Recent advancements of nanomaterial-based therapeutic strategies toward sepsis: bacterial eradication, anti-inflammation, and immunomodulation. NANOSCALE 2021; 13:10726-10747. [PMID: 34165483 DOI: 10.1039/d1nr02706a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Sepsis is a life threatening disease that is caused by a dysregulated host immune response to infection, resulting in tissue damage and organ dysfunction, which account for a high in-hospital mortality (approximately 20%). However, there are still no effective and specific therapeutics for clinical sepsis management. Nanomaterial-based strategies have emerged as promising tools for improving the therapeutic efficacy of sepsis by combating lethal bacterial infection, modulating systemic inflammatory response, preventing multiple organ failure, etc. This review has comprehensively summarized the recent advancements in nanomaterial-based strategies for the management of sepsis and severe complications, in which those nanosystems act either as inherent therapeutics or as nanocarriers for the precise delivery of agents. These formulations mechanically possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-oxidative effects, achieving multifunctional synergistic treatment efficacy against sepsis. Furthermore, several cell membrane-derived biomimetic nanoplatforms have been used as decoys to trap and neutralize the pathogenic toxins. The critical role of other adjuvant therapies in sepsis management, including the combination of nanotechnology and stem cell therapy, is also highlighted. Overall, this review provides insights into innovative nanotechnology-based strategies applied in sepsis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, China.
| | - Minju Pu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, China.
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, China.
| | - Yanan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, China.
| | - Xuefeng Yan
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, China.
| | - Liangmin Yu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, China.
| | - Zhiyu He
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, China.
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23
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Ma W, Liu L, Xu Y, Wang L, Chen L, Yan S, Shui L, Wang Z, Li S. A highly efficient preconcentration route for rapid and sensitive detection of endotoxin based on an electrochemical biosensor. Analyst 2021; 145:4204-4211. [PMID: 32459250 DOI: 10.1039/d0an00315h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
An impedimetric aptasensor for the detection of endotoxin in a microfluidic chip was proposed, in which the Apt/AuNPs/SPCE sensing surface was fabricated in a screen-printed electrode with good biological activity and stability. The quantitative detection of endotoxin was accomplished by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurement before and after exposing to samples. The impedance biosensor offers an ultrasensitive and selective detection of endotoxin down to 500 pg mL-1 with a wide linear range from 500 pg mL-1 to 200 ng mL-1. According to the Langmuir isotherm model, the interactions between the target molecules and the sensing surface had been analyzed and strong binding was concluded. Compared to the traditional static incubation methods, the microfluidic biosensor realizes the enrichment of endotoxin owing to the confined space and continuous flow nature, so that the lowest detection concentration is reduced from 5 ng mL-1 to 500 pg mL-1, which is much lower than the existing technology, and the total assay time is shortened from 1.0 h to 0.5 h. The proposed microfluidic impedance biosensor provides a new strategy for the design of an aptasensor to realize the rapid detection of target biomolecules with high sensitivity and it can be integrated into wearable medical devices due to its flexible properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenrui Ma
- Key Disciplines Lab of Novel Micro-Nano Devices and System Technology & Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Technology and Systems (Ministry of Education), College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China. and International R & D center of Micro-nano Systems and New Materials Technology, Chongqing University, Shapingba, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Lulu Liu
- International R & D center of Micro-nano Systems and New Materials Technology, Chongqing University, Shapingba, Chongqing 400044, China and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Yi Xu
- Key Disciplines Lab of Novel Micro-Nano Devices and System Technology & Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Technology and Systems (Ministry of Education), College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China. and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China and International R & D center of Micro-nano Systems and New Materials Technology, Chongqing University, Shapingba, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Li Wang
- Key Disciplines Lab of Novel Micro-Nano Devices and System Technology & Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Technology and Systems (Ministry of Education), College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China. and International R & D center of Micro-nano Systems and New Materials Technology, Chongqing University, Shapingba, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Li Chen
- Key Disciplines Lab of Novel Micro-Nano Devices and System Technology & Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Technology and Systems (Ministry of Education), College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China. and International R & D center of Micro-nano Systems and New Materials Technology, Chongqing University, Shapingba, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Sheng Yan
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, P. R. China
| | - Lingling Shui
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Optical Information Materials and Technology, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Zhijun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, People's Republic of China
| | - Shunbo Li
- Key Disciplines Lab of Novel Micro-Nano Devices and System Technology & Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Technology and Systems (Ministry of Education), College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China. and International R & D center of Micro-nano Systems and New Materials Technology, Chongqing University, Shapingba, Chongqing 400044, China
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24
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Wesseling CMJ, Wood TM, Slingerland CJ, Bertheussen K, Lok S, Martin NI. Thrombin-Derived Peptides Potentiate the Activity of Gram-Positive-Specific Antibiotics against Gram-Negative Bacteria. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26071954. [PMID: 33808488 PMCID: PMC8037310 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26071954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The continued rise of antibiotic resistance threatens to undermine the utility of the world’s current antibiotic arsenal. This problem is particularly troubling when it comes to Gram-negative pathogens for which there are inherently fewer antibiotics available. To address this challenge, recent attention has been focused on finding compounds capable of disrupting the Gram-negative outer membrane as a means of potentiating otherwise Gram-positive-specific antibiotics. In this regard, agents capable of binding to the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) present in the Gram-negative outer membrane are of particular interest as synergists. Recently, thrombin-derived C-terminal peptides (TCPs) were reported to exhibit unique LPS-binding properties. We here describe investigations establishing the capacity of TCPs to act as synergists with the antibiotics erythromycin, rifampicin, novobiocin, and vancomycin against multiple Gram-negative strains including polymyxin-resistant clinical isolates. We further assessed the structural features most important for the observed synergy and characterized the outer membrane permeabilizing activity of the most potent synergists. Our investigations highlight the potential for such peptides in expanding the therapeutic range of antibiotics typically only used to treat Gram-positive infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte M. J. Wesseling
- Biological Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, 2333 Leiden, The Netherlands; (C.M.J.W.); (T.M.W.); (C.J.S.); (K.B.); (S.L.)
| | - Thomas M. Wood
- Biological Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, 2333 Leiden, The Netherlands; (C.M.J.W.); (T.M.W.); (C.J.S.); (K.B.); (S.L.)
- Department of Chemical Biology & Drug Discovery, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis J. Slingerland
- Biological Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, 2333 Leiden, The Netherlands; (C.M.J.W.); (T.M.W.); (C.J.S.); (K.B.); (S.L.)
| | - Kristine Bertheussen
- Biological Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, 2333 Leiden, The Netherlands; (C.M.J.W.); (T.M.W.); (C.J.S.); (K.B.); (S.L.)
- Bio-Organic Synthesis Group, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, 2333 Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Samantha Lok
- Biological Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, 2333 Leiden, The Netherlands; (C.M.J.W.); (T.M.W.); (C.J.S.); (K.B.); (S.L.)
| | - Nathaniel I. Martin
- Biological Chemistry Group, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, 2333 Leiden, The Netherlands; (C.M.J.W.); (T.M.W.); (C.J.S.); (K.B.); (S.L.)
- Correspondence:
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25
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Petruk G, Puthia M, Petrlova J, Samsudin F, Strömdahl AC, Cerps S, Uller L, Kjellström S, Bond PJ, Schmidtchen AA. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein binds to bacterial lipopolysaccharide and boosts proinflammatory activity. J Mol Cell Biol 2021; 12:916-932. [PMID: 33295606 PMCID: PMC7799037 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjaa067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a link between high lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels in the blood and the metabolic syndrome, and metabolic syndrome predisposes patients to severe COVID-19. Here, we define an interaction between SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein and LPS, leading to aggravated inflammation in vitro and in vivo. Native gel electrophoresis demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 S protein binds to LPS. Microscale thermophoresis yielded a KD of ∼47 nM for the interaction. Computational modeling and all-atom molecular dynamics simulations further substantiated the experimental results, identifying a main LPS-binding site in SARS-CoV-2 S protein. S protein, when combined with low levels of LPS, boosted nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation in monocytic THP-1 cells and cytokine responses in human blood and peripheral blood mononuclear cells, respectively. The in vitro inflammatory response was further validated by employing NF-κB reporter mice and in vivo bioimaging. Dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, and LPS-FITC analyses demonstrated that S protein modulated the aggregation state of LPS, providing a molecular explanation for the observed boosting effect. Taken together, our results provide an interesting molecular link between excessive inflammation during infection with SARS-CoV-2 and comorbidities involving increased levels of bacterial endotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganna Petruk
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Manoj Puthia
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Firdaus Samsudin
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Ann-Charlotte Strömdahl
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Samuel Cerps
- Unit of Respiratory Immunopharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Lena Uller
- Unit of Respiratory Immunopharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Sven Kjellström
- Division of Mass Spectrometry, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Peter J Bond
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138671, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - And Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden.,Copenhagen Wound Healing Center, Bispebjerg Hospital, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2400 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Dermatology, Skåne University Hospital, SE-22185 Lund, Sweden
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26
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Saravanan R, Choong YK, Lim CH, Lim LM, Petrlova J, Schmidtchen A. Cell-Free DNA Promotes Thrombin Autolysis and Generation of Thrombin-Derived C-Terminal Fragments. Front Immunol 2021; 12:593020. [PMID: 33717072 PMCID: PMC7943729 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.593020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is the major structural component of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), an innate immune response to infection. Antimicrobial proteins and peptides bound to cfDNA play a critical role in the bactericidal property of NETs. Recent studies have shown that NETs have procoagulant activity, wherein cfDNA triggers thrombin generation through activation of the intrinsic pathway of coagulation. We have recently shown that thrombin binds to NETs in vitro and consequently can alter the proteome of NETs. However, the effect of NETs on thrombin is still unknown. In this study, we report that DNA binding leads to thrombin autolysis and generation of multiple thrombin-derived C-terminal peptides (TCPs) in vitro. Employing a 25-residue prototypic TCP, GKY25 (GKYGFYTHVFRLKKWIQKVIDQFGE), we show that TCPs bind NETs, thus conferring mutual protection against nuclease and protease degradation. Together, our results demonstrate the complex interplay between coagulation, NET formation, and thrombin cleavage and identify a previously undisclosed mechanism for formation of TCPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rathi Saravanan
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yeu Khai Choong
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chun Hwee Lim
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Interdisciplinary Graduate School, NTU Institute for Health Technologies, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Li Ming Lim
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.,Wound Healing Centre, Bispebjerg Hospital, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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27
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Dash R, Bhattacharjya S. Thanatin: An Emerging Host Defense Antimicrobial Peptide with Multiple Modes of Action. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041522. [PMID: 33546369 PMCID: PMC7913509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) possess great potential for combating drug-resistant bacteria. Thanatin is a pathogen-inducible single-disulfide-bond-containing β-hairpin AMP which was first isolated from the insect Podisus maculiventris. The 21-residue-long thanatin displays broad-spectrum activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria as well as against various species of fungi. Remarkably, thanatin was found to be highly potent in inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi at considerably low concentrations. Although thanatin was isolated around 25 years ago, only recently has there been a pronounced interest in understanding its mode of action and activity against drug-resistant bacteria. In this review, multiple modes of action of thanatin in killing bacteria and in vivo activity, therapeutic potential are discussed. This promising AMP requires further research for the development of novel molecules for the treatment of infections caused by drug resistant pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachita Dash
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551, Singapore;
- Department of Systems and Computational Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana 500046, India
| | - Surajit Bhattacharjya
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551, Singapore;
- Correspondence:
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28
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Concentration- and pH-Dependent Oligomerization of the Thrombin-Derived C-Terminal Peptide TCP-25. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10111572. [PMID: 33228042 PMCID: PMC7699335 DOI: 10.3390/biom10111572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide oligomerization dynamics affects peptide structure, activity, and pharmacodynamic properties. The thrombin C-terminal peptide, TCP-25 (GKYGFYTHVFRLKKWIQKVIDQFGE), is currently in preclinical development for improved wound healing and infection prevention. It exhibits turbidity when formulated at pH 7.4, particularly at concentrations of 0.3 mM or more. We used biochemical and biophysical approaches to explore whether the peptide self-associates and forms oligomers. The peptide showed a dose-dependent increase in turbidity as well as α-helical structure at pH 7.4, a phenomenon not observed at pH 5.0. By analyzing the intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence, we demonstrate that TCP-25 is more stable at high concentrations (0.3 mM) when exposed to high temperatures or a high concentration of denaturant agents, which is compatible with oligomer formation. The denaturation process was reversible above 100 µM of peptide. Dynamic light scattering demonstrated that TCP-25 oligomerization is sensitive to changes in pH, time, and temperature. Computational modeling with an active 18-mer region of TCP-25 showed that the peptide can form pH-dependent higher-order end-to-end oligomers and micelle-like structures, which is in agreement with the experimental data. Thus, TCP-25 exhibits pH- and temperature-dependent dynamic changes involving helical induction and reversible oligomerization, which explains the observed turbidity of the pharmacologically developed formulation.
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29
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Brandenburg K, Schromm AB, Weindl G, Heinbockel L, Correa W, Mauss K, Martinez de Tejada G, Garidel P. An update on endotoxin neutralization strategies in Gram-negative bacterial infections. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2020; 19:495-517. [PMID: 33210958 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2021.1834847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gram-negative bacterial infections represent still a severe problem of human health care, regarding the increase in multi-resistance against classical antibiotics and the lack of newly developed antimicrobials. For the fight against these germs, anti-infective agents must overcome and/or bind to the Gram-negative outer membrane consisting of a lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin) outer leaflet and an inner leaflet from phospholipids, with additional peripheral or integral membrane proteins (OMP's). AREAS COVERED The current article reviews data of existing therapeutic options and summarizes newer approaches for targeting and neutralizing endotoxins, ranging from in vitro over in vivo animal data to clinical applications by using databases such as Medline. EXPERT OPINION Conventional antibiotic treatment of the bacteria leads to their killing, but not necessary LPS neutralization, which may be a severe problem in particular for the systemic pathway. This is the reason why there is an increasing number of therapeutic approaches, which - besides combating whole bacteria - at the same time try to neutralize endotoxin within or outside the bacterial cells mainly responsible for the high inflammation induction in Gram-negative species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Brandenburg
- Brandenburg Antiinfektiva GmbH, c/o Forschungszentrum Borstel, Borstel, Germany
| | - Andra B Schromm
- FG Immunobiophysik, Forschungszentrum Borstel, Leibniz Lungenzentrum, Borstel, Germany
| | - Günther Weindl
- Brandenburg Antiinfektiva GmbH, c/o Forschungszentrum Borstel, Borstel, Germany.,Universität Bonn, Universität Bonn Pharmazeutisches Institut Pharmakologie Und Toxikologie Bonn, Germany
| | - Lena Heinbockel
- Brandenburg Antiinfektiva GmbH, c/o Forschungszentrum Borstel, Borstel, Germany
| | - Wilmar Correa
- FG Biophysik, Forschungszentrum Borstel, Leibniz Lungenzentrum, Borstel, Germany
| | - Karl Mauss
- Brandenburg Antiinfektiva GmbH, c/o Forschungszentrum Borstel, Borstel, Germany.,Asklepios-Klinik Hamburg-Altona, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Guillermo Martinez de Tejada
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Navarra, E-31008 Pamplona, Spain and Navarra Institute for Health Research (Idisna), Pamplona, Spain.,Department de Microbiologia, Universidad De Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Patrick Garidel
- Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Institut für Chemie, Halle/Saale, Germany
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30
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Mahlapuu M, Björn C, Ekblom J. Antimicrobial peptides as therapeutic agents: opportunities and challenges. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2020; 40:978-992. [PMID: 32781848 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2020.1796576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The rapid development of microbial resistance to conventional antibiotics has accelerated efforts to find anti-infectives with a novel mode-of-action, which are less prone to bacterial resistance. Intense nonclinical and clinical research is today ongoing to evaluate antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as potential next-generation antibiotics. Currently, multiple AMPs are assessed in late-stage clinical trials, not only as novel anti-infective drugs, but also as innovative product candidates for immunomodulation, promotion of wound healing, and prevention of post-operative scars. The efforts to translate AMP-based research findings into pharmaceutical product candidates are expected to accelerate in coming years due to technological advancements in multiple areas, including an improved understanding of the mechanism-of-action of AMPs, smart formulation strategies, and advanced chemical synthesis protocols. At the same time, it is recognized that cytotoxicity, low metabolic stability due to sensitivity to proteolytic degradation, and limited oral bioavailability are some of the key weaknesses of AMPs. Furthermore, the pricing and reimbursement environment for new antimicrobial products remains as a major barrier to the commercialization of AMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margit Mahlapuu
- Promore Pharma AB, Karolinska Institutet Science Park, Solna, Sweden
| | | | - Jonas Ekblom
- Promore Pharma AB, Karolinska Institutet Science Park, Solna, Sweden
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31
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Bhattacharjya S, Straus SK. Design, Engineering and Discovery of Novel α-Helical and β-Boomerang Antimicrobial Peptides against Drug Resistant Bacteria. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165773. [PMID: 32796755 PMCID: PMC7460851 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In an era where the pipeline of new antibiotic development is drying up, the continuous rise of multi-drug resistant (MDR) and extensively drug resistant (XDR) bacteria are genuine threats to human health. Although antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) may serve as promising leads against drug resistant bacteria, only a few AMPs are in advanced clinical trials. The limitations of AMPs, namely their low in vivo activity, toxicity, and poor bioavailability, need to be addressed. Here, we review engineering of frog derived short α-helical AMPs (aurein, temporins) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) binding designed β-boomerang AMPs for further development. The discovery of novel cell selective AMPs from the human proprotein convertase furin is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surajit Bhattacharjya
- School of Biological Sciences, 60 Nanyang Drive, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551, Singapore
- Correspondence: (S.B.); (S.K.S.)
| | - Suzana K. Straus
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, 2036 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Canada
- Correspondence: (S.B.); (S.K.S.)
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32
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Xie K, Kong S, Li F, Zhang Y, Wang J, Zhao W. Bioinformatics-Based Study to Investigate Potential Differentially Expressed Genes and miRNAs in Pediatric Sepsis. Med Sci Monit 2020; 26:e923881. [PMID: 32575108 PMCID: PMC7331480 DOI: 10.12659/msm.923881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sepsis is an extremely common health issue with a considerable mortality rate in children. Our understanding about the pathogenic mechanisms of sepsis is limited. The aim of this study was to identify the differential expression genes (DEGs) in pediatric sepsis through comprehensive analysis, and to provide specific insights for the clinical sepsis therapies in children. MATERIAL AND METHODS Three pediatric gene expression profiles (GSE25504, GSE26378, GSE26440) were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The difference expression genes (DEGs) between pediatric sepsis and normal control group were screened with the GEO2R online tool. The Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses of the DEGs were performed. Cytoscape with CytoHubba were used to identify the hub genes. Finally, NetworkAnalyst was used to construct the targeted microRNAs (miRNAs) of the hub genes. RESULTS Totally, 160 overlapping upward genes and 61 downward genes were identified. In addition, 5 KEGG pathways, including hematopoietic cell lineage, Staphylococcus aureus infection, starch and sucrose metabolism, osteoclast differentiation, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling pathway, were significantly enriched using a database for labeling, visualization, and synthetic discovery. In combination with the results of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and CytoHubba, 9 hub genes including ITGAM, TLR8, IL1ß, MMP9, MPO, FPR2, ELANE, SPI1, and C3AR1 were selected. Combined with DEG-miRNAs visualization, 5 miRNAs, including has-miR-204-5p, has-miR-211-5p, has-miR-590-5p, and has-miR-21-5p, were predicted as possibly the key miRNAs. CONCLUSIONS Our findings will contribute to identification of potential biomarkers and novel strategies for pediatric sepsis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Xie
- Laboratory Department, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China (mainland)
| | - Shan Kong
- Laboratory Department, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China (mainland)
| | - Fuxing Li
- Laboratory Department, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China (mainland)
| | - Yulin Zhang
- Laboratory Department, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China (mainland)
| | - Jing Wang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China (mainland)
| | - Weidong Zhao
- Laboratory Department, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China (mainland)
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33
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Onat B, Rosales-Solano H, Pawliszyn J. Development of a Biocompatible Solid Phase Microextraction Thin Film Coating for the Sampling and Enrichment of Peptides. Anal Chem 2020; 92:9379-9388. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c01846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bora Onat
- Department of Chemistry, University of Waterloo, N2L 3G1 Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Janusz Pawliszyn
- Department of Chemistry, University of Waterloo, N2L 3G1 Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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34
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Puthia M, Butrym M, Petrlova J, Strömdahl AC, Andersson MÅ, Kjellström S, Schmidtchen A. A dual-action peptide-containing hydrogel targets wound infection and inflammation. Sci Transl Med 2020; 12:12/524/eaax6601. [DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aax6601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There is a clinical need for improved wound treatments that prevent both infection and excessive inflammation. TCP-25, a thrombin-derived peptide, is antibacterial and scavenges pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), such as lipopolysaccharide, thereby preventing CD14 interaction and Toll-like receptor dimerization, leading to reduced downstream immune activation. Here, we describe the development of a hydrogel formulation that was functionalized with TCP-25 to target bacteria and associated PAMP-induced inflammation. In vitro studies determined the polymer prerequisites for such TCP-25–mediated dual action, favoring the use of noncharged hydrophilic hydrogels, which enabled peptide conformational changes and LPS binding. The TCP-25–functionalized hydrogels killed Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria in vitro, as well as in experimental mouse models of subcutaneous infection. The TCP-25 hydrogel also mediated reduction of LPS-induced local inflammatory responses, as demonstrated by analysis of local cytokine production and in vivo bioimaging using nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) reporter mice. In porcine partial thickness wound models, TCP-25 prevented infection with S. aureus and reduced concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines. Proteolytic fragmentation of TCP-25 in vitro yielded a series of bioactive TCP fragments that were identical or similar to those present in wounds in vivo. Together, the results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of TCP-25 hydrogel, a wound treatment based on the body’s peptide defense, for prevention of both bacterial infection and the accompanying inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Puthia
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Marta Butrym
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Jitka Petrlova
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Ann-Charlotte Strömdahl
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Sven Kjellström
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Center for Molecular Protein Science, Lund University, SE-22362 Lund, Sweden
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, SE-22184 Lund, Sweden
- Copenhagen Wound Healing Center, Bispebjerg Hospital, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Dermatology, Skåne University Hospital, SE-22185 Lund, Sweden
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35
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Chen X, Yi Y, You X, Liu J, Shi Q. High-Throughput Identification of Putative Antimicrobial Peptides from Multi-Omics Data of the Lined Seahorse ( Hippocampus erectus). Mar Drugs 2019; 18:md18010030. [PMID: 31905755 PMCID: PMC7024384 DOI: 10.3390/md18010030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 12/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Lined seahorse (Hippocampus erectus), the most widely cultivated seahorse in China, has been in short supply because of its important medicinal value; meanwhile, unnatural deaths caused by various diseases (especially enteritis) have limited their practical large-scale aquaculture. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), as the best alternative to antibiotics, have been extensively applied in agricultural practices. In this study, we identified 290 putative AMP sequences from our previously published genome and transcriptome data of the lined seahorse. Among them, 267 are novel, and 118 were validated by our proteome data generated in the present study. It seems that there is a tissue preference in the distribution of AMP/AMP precursor transcripts, such as lectins in the male pouch. In addition, their transcription levels usually varied during development. Interestingly, the representative lectins kept extremely high levels at the pre-pregnancy stage while at relatively lower levels at other stages. Especially Lectin25, with the highest transcription levels and significant developmental changes, has been reported to be involved in seahorse and human pregnancy. The comparison of transcriptome data between one-day and three-month juveniles indicated that Hemoglobin2 (Hemo2) was significantly upregulated in the body, haslet, and brain. Our proteome data of female and male individuals revealed three putative AMP precursors with sexual specificity, including two male-biased cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK-like16 and CDK-like23) and one female-biased bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor 2 (BPTI2). In conclusion, our present high-throughput identification of putative AMP sequences from multi-omics (including genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics) data provides an overview of AMPs in the popular lined seahorse, which lays a solid foundation for further development of AMP-based fish food additives and human drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiyang Chen
- BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518083, China; (X.C.); (Y.Y.); (X.Y.)
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, BGI, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Yunhai Yi
- BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518083, China; (X.C.); (Y.Y.); (X.Y.)
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, BGI, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Xinxin You
- BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518083, China; (X.C.); (Y.Y.); (X.Y.)
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, BGI, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Jie Liu
- BGI Genomics, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China;
| | - Qiong Shi
- BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518083, China; (X.C.); (Y.Y.); (X.Y.)
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, BGI, Shenzhen 518083, China
- Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-185-6627-9826; Fax: +86-755-3630-7807
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36
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Yu N, Zhang X, Gao Y, You H, Zhang J, Miao P. Highly Sensitive Endotoxin Assay Combining Peptide/Graphene Oxide and DNA-Modified Gold Nanoparticles. ACS OMEGA 2019; 4:14312-14316. [PMID: 31508556 PMCID: PMC6733170 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.9b02013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Endotoxin is a highly toxic stimulator originated from the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, which should be monitored sensitively and selectively for human health concerns. Traditional detection methods mainly rely on limulus amoebocyte lysate assay. However, it suffers drawbacks like the narrow detection range, and the results may be environment-dependent. In this work, we have developed a sensitive electrochemical biosensor for endotoxin assay. Peptide is first designed as specific recognition element toward endotoxin. Graphene oxide and DNA-modified gold nanoparticles are then used to enhance the electrochemical signal. The analytical performances are excellent with the limit of detection as low as 0.001 EU mL-1. This method has also been successfully applied in endotoxin assay in complex biological samples, which may have great potential use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nong Yu
- People’s
Hospital of Suzhou New District, Suzhou 215010, P. R. China
| | - Xiaozhong Zhang
- People’s
Hospital of Suzhou New District, Suzhou 215010, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Gao
- People’s
Hospital of Suzhou New District, Suzhou 215010, P. R. China
| | - Honglan You
- People’s
Hospital of Suzhou New District, Suzhou 215010, P. R. China
| | - Jingzhong Zhang
- Suzhou
Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215163, P. R. China
| | - Peng Miao
- Suzhou
Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215163, P. R. China
- Tianjin
Guokeyigong Science and Technology Development Company Limited, Tianjin 300399, P. R. China
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37
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Holdbrook DA, Huber RG, Marzinek JK, Stubbusch A, Schmidtchen A, Bond PJ. Multiscale modeling of innate immune receptors: Endotoxin recognition and regulation by host defense peptides. Pharmacol Res 2019; 147:104372. [PMID: 31351116 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The innate immune system provides a first line of defense against foreign microorganisms, and is typified by the Toll-like receptor (TLR) family. TLR4 is of particular interest, since over-stimulation of its pathway by excess lipopolysaccharide (LPS) molecules from the outer membranes of Gram-negative bacteria can result in sepsis, which causes millions of deaths each year. In this review, we outline our use of molecular simulation approaches to gain a better understanding of the determinants of LPS recognition, towards the search for novel immunotherapeutics. We first describe how atomic-resolution simulations have enabled us to elucidate the regulatory conformational changes in TLR4 associated with different LPS analogues, and hence a means to rationalize experimental structure-activity data. Furthermore, multiscale modelling strategies have provided a detailed description of the thermodynamics and intermediate structures associated with the entire TLR4 relay - which consists of a number of transient receptor/coreceptor complexes - allowing us trace the pathway of LPS transfer from bacterial membranes to the terminal receptor complex at the plasma membrane surface. Finally, we describe our efforts to leverage these computational models, in order to elucidate previously undisclosed anti-inflammatory mechanisms of endogenous host-defense peptides found in wounds. Collectively, this work represents a promising avenue for the development of novel anti-septic treatments, inspired by nature's innate defense strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A Holdbrook
- Bioinformatics Institute, A⁎STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore
| | - Roland G Huber
- Bioinformatics Institute, A⁎STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore
| | - Jan K Marzinek
- Bioinformatics Institute, A⁎STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore
| | - Astrid Stubbusch
- Bioinformatics Institute, A⁎STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore
| | - Artur Schmidtchen
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden; Copenhagen Wound Healing Center, Bispebjerg Hospital, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Dermatology, Skane University Hospital, Sweden
| | - Peter J Bond
- Bioinformatics Institute, A⁎STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore; Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
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38
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Feng X, Yu C, Feng F, Lu P, Chai Y, Li Q, Zhang D, Wang X, Yao L. Direct Measurement of Through-Bond Effects in Molecular Multivalent Interactions. Chemistry 2019; 25:2978-2982. [PMID: 30600858 DOI: 10.1002/chem.201805218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Revised: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Multivalent interactions occur throughout biology, and have a number of characteristics that monovalent interactions do not. However, it remains challenging to directly measure the binding force of molecular multivalent interactions and identify the mechanism of interactions. In this study, the specific interaction between bivalent aptamer and thrombin has been measured directly and quantitatively by force-induced remnant magnetization spectroscopy to investigate the binding force and through-bond effects of the multivalent interactions. The measured differential binding forces enable through-bond effects in thrombin-aptamer complexes to be identified, where aptamer binding at exosite II produces visible effects on their binding at exosite I and vice versa. This method might be suitable for practical applications in the design of high-performance ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyan Feng
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, Institute of Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China.,University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Chanchan Yu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, Institute of Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China.,University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Feng Feng
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, Institute of Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China.,University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Pan Lu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, Institute of Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China.,University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Yahong Chai
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, Institute of Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China.,University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Qilong Li
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, Institute of Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China.,University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Di Zhang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, Institute of Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China.,University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Xiuyu Wang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, Institute of Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China.,University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Li Yao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, Institute of Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China.,University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
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39
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Huber RG, Carpenter TS, Dube N, Holdbrook DA, Ingólfsson HI, Irvine WA, Marzinek JK, Samsudin F, Allison JR, Khalid S, Bond PJ. Multiscale Modeling and Simulation Approaches to Lipid-Protein Interactions. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 2003:1-30. [PMID: 31218611 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9512-7_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Lipid membranes play a crucial role in living systems by compartmentalizing biological processes and forming a barrier between these processes and the environment. Naturally, a large apparatus of biomolecules is responsible for construction, maintenance, transport, and degradation of these lipid barriers. Additional classes of biomolecules are tasked with transport of specific substances or transduction of signals from the environment across lipid membranes. In this article, we intend to describe a set of techniques that enable one to build accurate models of lipid systems and their associated proteins, and to simulate their dynamics over a variety of time and length scales. We discuss the methods and challenges that allow us to derive structural, mechanistic, and thermodynamic information from these models. We also show how these models have recently been applied in research to study some of the most complex lipid-protein systems to date, including bacterial and viral envelopes, neuronal membranes, and mammalian signaling systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland G Huber
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Timothy S Carpenter
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Namita Dube
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Daniel A Holdbrook
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Helgi I Ingólfsson
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - William A Irvine
- Centre for Theoretical Chemistry and Physics, Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jan K Marzinek
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Jane R Allison
- School of Biological Sciences and Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Biomolecular Interaction Centre, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Syma Khalid
- School of Chemistry, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Peter J Bond
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore.
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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40
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Sharma KK, Marzinek JK, Tantirimudalige SN, Bond PJ, Wohland T. Single-molecule studies of flavivirus envelope dynamics: Experiment and computation. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 143:38-51. [PMID: 30223001 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Flaviviruses are simple enveloped viruses exhibiting complex structural and functional heterogeneities. Decades of research have provided crucial basic insights, antiviral medication and moderately successful gene therapy trials. The most infectious particle is, however, not always the most abundant one in a population, questioning the utility of classic ensemble-averaging virology approaches. Indeed, viral replication is often not particularly efficient, prone to errors or containing parallel routes. Here, we review different single-molecule sensitive fluorescence methods that are employed to investigate flaviviruses. In particular, we review how (i) time-resolved Förster resonance energy transfer (trFRET) was applied to probe dengue envelope conformations; (ii) FRET-fluorescence correlation spectroscopy to investigate dengue envelope intrinsic dynamics and (iii) single particle tracking to follow the path of dengue viruses in cells. We also discuss how such methods may be supported by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations over a range of spatio-temporal scales, to provide complementary data on the structure and dynamics of flaviviral systems. We describe recent improvements in multiscale MD approaches that allowed the simulation of dengue particle envelopes in near-atomic resolution. We hope this review is an incentive for setting up and applying similar single-molecule studies and combine them with MD simulations to investigate structural dynamics of entire flavivirus particles over the nanosecond-to-millisecond time-scale and follow viruses during infection in cells over milliseconds to minutes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamal Kant Sharma
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - Jan K Marzinek
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543, Singapore; Bioinformatics Institute (A*STAR), 30 Biopolis Street, #07-01 Matrix, Singapore 138671, Singapore
| | - Sarala Neomi Tantirimudalige
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - Peter J Bond
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543, Singapore; Bioinformatics Institute (A*STAR), 30 Biopolis Street, #07-01 Matrix, Singapore 138671, Singapore.
| | - Thorsten Wohland
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543, Singapore; Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543, Singapore; Centre for Bioimaging Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117557, Singapore.
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