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Li Y, Dong J, Qin JJ. Small molecule inhibitors targeting heat shock protein 90: An updated review. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 275:116562. [PMID: 38865742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116562] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
As a molecular chaperone, heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) plays important roles in the folding, stabilization, activation, and degradation of over 500 client proteins, and is extensively involved in cell signaling, proliferation, and survival. Thus, it has emerged as an important target in a variety of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and viral infections. Therefore, targeted inhibition of HSP90 provides a valuable and promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of HSP90-related diseases. This review aims to systematically summarize the progress of research on HSP90 inhibitors in the last five years, focusing on their structural features, design strategies, and biological activities. It will refer to the natural products and their derivatives (including novobiocin derivatives, deguelin derivatives, quinone derivatives, and terpenoid derivatives), and to synthetic small molecules (including resorcinol derivatives, pyrazoles derivatives, triazole derivatives, pyrimidine derivatives, benzamide derivatives, benzothiazole derivatives, and benzofuran derivatives). In addition, the major HSP90 small-molecule inhibitors that have moved into clinical trials to date are also presented here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulong Li
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jinyun Dong
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China.
| | - Jiang-Jiang Qin
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China.
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2
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Yiu B, Robbins N, Cowen LE. Interdisciplinary approaches for the discovery of novel antifungals. Trends Mol Med 2024; 30:723-735. [PMID: 38777733 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2024.04.018] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Pathogenic fungi are an increasing public health concern. The emergence of antifungal resistance coupled with the scarce antifungal arsenal highlights the need for novel therapeutics. Fortunately, the past few years have witnessed breakthroughs in antifungal development. Here, we discuss pivotal interdisciplinary approaches for the discovery of novel compounds with efficacy against diverse fungal pathogens. We highlight breakthroughs in improving current antifungal scaffolds, as well as the utility of compound combinations to extend the lifespan of antifungals. Finally, we describe efforts to refine candidate chemical scaffolds by leveraging structure-guided approaches, and the use of functional genomics to expand our knowledge of druggable antifungal targets. Overall, we emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary collaborations in the endeavor to develop innovative antifungal strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie Yiu
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Leah E Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1M1, Canada.
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3
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Li W, Feng Y, Feng Z, Wang L, Whiteway M, Lu H, Jiang Y. Pitavastatin Calcium Confers Fungicidal Properties to Fluconazole by Inhibiting Ubiquinone Biosynthesis and Generating Reactive Oxygen Species. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:667. [PMID: 38929106 PMCID: PMC11200976 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13060667] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Fluconazole (FLC) is extensively employed for the prophylaxis and treatment of invasive fungal infections (IFIs). However, the fungistatic nature of FLC renders pathogenic fungi capable of developing tolerance towards it. Consequently, converting FLC into a fungicidal agent using adjuvants assumes significance to circumvent FLC resistance and the perpetuation of fungal infections. This drug repurposing study has successfully identified pitavastatin calcium (PIT) as a promising adjuvant for enhancing the fungicidal activity of FLC from a comprehensive library of 2372 FDA-approved drugs. PIT could render FLC fungicidal even at concentrations as low as 1 μM. The median lethal dose (LD50) of PIT was determined to be 103.6 mg/kg. We have discovered that PIT achieves its synergistic effect by inhibiting the activity of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, thereby impeding ubiquinone biosynthesis, inducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, triggering apoptosis, and disrupting Golgi function. We employed a Candida albicans strain that demonstrated a notable tolerance to FLC to infect mice and found that PIT effectively augmented the antifungal efficacy of FLC against IFIs. This study is an illustrative example of how FDA-approved drugs can effectively eliminate fungal tolerance to FLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanqian Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yanru Feng
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Zhe Feng
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Malcolm Whiteway
- Department of Biology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Hui Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yuanying Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
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4
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da Silva CM, de Lima Neto RG, de Carvalho AMR, Macêdo DPC, de Azevedo Melo AS, Neves RP. Taxonomy of Candida parapsilosis complex isolated from neonates and the role of Hsp90 inhibitors to enhanced the antifungal activity of micafungin. Lett Appl Microbiol 2024; 77:ovae044. [PMID: 38658187 DOI: 10.1093/lambio/ovae044] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Species from Candida parapsilosis complex are frequently found in neonatal candidemia. The antifungal agents to treat this infection are limited and the occurrence of low in vitro susceptibility to echinocandins such as micafungin has been observed. In this context, the chaperone Hsp90 could be a target to reduce resistance. Thus, the objective of this research was to identify isolates from the C. parapsilosis complex and verify the action of Hsp90 inhibitors associated with micafungin. The fungal identification was based on genetic sequencing and mass spectrometry. Minimal inhibitory concentrations were determined by broth microdilution method according to Clinical Laboratory and Standards Institute. The evaluation of the interaction between micafungin with Hsp90 inhibitors was realized using the checkerboard methodology. According to the polyphasic taxonomy, C. parapsilosis sensu stricto was the most frequently identified, followed by C. orthopsilosis and C. metapsilosis, and one isolate of Lodderomyces elongisporus was identified by genetic sequencing. The Hsp90 inhibitor geladanamycin associated with micafungin showed a synergic effect in 31.25% of the isolates, a better result was observed with radicicol, which shows synergic effect in 56.25% tested yeasts. The results obtained demonstrate that blocking Hsp90 could be effective to reduce antifungal resistance to echinocandins.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Rejane Pereira Neves
- Federal University of Pernambuco, Mycology Department, Recife-PE, 50670-90, Brazil
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5
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Mansfield CR, Quan B, Chirgwin ME, Eduful B, Hughes PF, Neveu G, Sylvester K, Ryan DH, Kafsack BFC, Haystead TAJ, Leahy JW, Fitzgerald MC, Derbyshire ER. Selective targeting of Plasmodium falciparum Hsp90 disrupts the 26S proteasome. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:729-742.e13. [PMID: 38492573 PMCID: PMC11031320 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.02.008] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
The molecular chaperone heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) has an essential but largely undefined role in maintaining proteostasis in Plasmodium falciparum, the most lethal malaria parasite. Herein, we identify BX-2819 and XL888 as potent P. falciparum (Pf)Hsp90 inhibitors. Derivatization of XL888's scaffold led to the development of Tropane 1, as a PfHsp90-selective binder with nanomolar affinity. Hsp90 inhibitors exhibit anti-Plasmodium activity against the liver, asexual blood, and early gametocyte life stages. Thermal proteome profiling was implemented to assess PfHsp90-dependent proteome stability, and the proteasome-the main site of cellular protein recycling-was enriched among proteins with perturbed stability upon PfHsp90 inhibition. Subsequent biochemical and cellular studies suggest that PfHsp90 directly promotes proteasome hydrolysis by chaperoning the active 26S complex. These findings expand our knowledge of the PfHsp90-dependent proteome and protein quality control mechanisms in these pathogenic parasites, as well as further characterize this chaperone as a potential antimalarial drug target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R Mansfield
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Baiyi Quan
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Benjamin Eduful
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Philip F Hughes
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Gaëlle Neveu
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kayla Sylvester
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Daniel H Ryan
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Björn F C Kafsack
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Timothy A J Haystead
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - James W Leahy
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA; Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA; Center for Drug Discovery and Innovation, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | | | - Emily R Derbyshire
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
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Puumala E, Sychantha D, Lach E, Reeves S, Nabeela S, Fogal M, Nigam A, Johnson JW, Aspuru-Guzik A, Shapiro RS, Uppuluri P, Kalyaanamoorthy S, Magolan J, Whitesell L, Robbins N, Wright GD, Cowen LE. Allosteric inhibition of tRNA synthetase Gln4 by N-pyrimidinyl-β-thiophenylacrylamides exerts highly selective antifungal activity. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:760-775.e17. [PMID: 38402621 PMCID: PMC11031294 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.01.010] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Candida species are among the most prevalent causes of systemic fungal infections, which account for ∼1.5 million annual fatalities. Here, we build on a compound screen that identified the molecule N-pyrimidinyl-β-thiophenylacrylamide (NP-BTA), which strongly inhibits Candida albicans growth. NP-BTA was hypothesized to target C. albicans glutaminyl-tRNA synthetase, Gln4. Here, we confirmed through in vitro amino-acylation assays NP-BTA is a potent inhibitor of Gln4, and we defined how NP-BTA arrests Gln4's transferase activity using co-crystallography. This analysis also uncovered Met496 as a critical residue for the compound's species-selective target engagement and potency. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies demonstrated the NP-BTA scaffold is subject to oxidative and non-oxidative metabolism, making it unsuitable for systemic administration. In a mouse dermatomycosis model, however, topical application of the compound provided significant therapeutic benefit. This work expands the repertoire of antifungal protein synthesis target mechanisms and provides a path to develop Gln4 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Puumala
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - David Sychantha
- M.G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, David Braley Centre for Antibiotic Discovery, Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Lach
- M.G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, David Braley Centre for Antibiotic Discovery, Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Shawn Reeves
- Department of Chemistry, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Sunna Nabeela
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California Los Angeles Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Meea Fogal
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - AkshatKumar Nigam
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jarrod W Johnson
- M.G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, David Braley Centre for Antibiotic Discovery, Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Alán Aspuru-Guzik
- Chemical Physics Theory Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada; Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 2E4, Canada; Department of Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E5, Canada; Department of Materials Science & Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E4, Canada; Vector Institute for Artificial Intelligence, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada; Lebovic Fellow, Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR), Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada; Acceleration Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Rebecca S Shapiro
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Priya Uppuluri
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California Los Angeles Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA; David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
| | | | - Jakob Magolan
- M.G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, David Braley Centre for Antibiotic Discovery, Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Luke Whitesell
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Gerard D Wright
- M.G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, David Braley Centre for Antibiotic Discovery, Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Leah E Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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Kohlmann P, Krylov SN, Marchand P, Jose J. FRET Assays for the Identification of C. albicans HSP90-Sba1 and Human HSP90α-p23 Binding Inhibitors. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:516. [PMID: 38675476 PMCID: PMC11053944 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is a critical target for anticancer and anti-fungal-infection therapies due to its central role as a molecular chaperone involved in protein folding and activation. In this study, we developed in vitro Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) assays to characterize the binding of C. albicans HSP90 to its co-chaperone Sba1, as well as that of the homologous human HSP90α to p23. The assay for human HSP90α binding to p23 enables selectivity assessment for compounds aimed to inhibit the binding of C. albicans HSP90 to Sba1 without affecting the physiological activity of human HSP90α. The combination of the two assays is important for antifungal drug development, while the assay for human HSP90α can potentially be used on its own for anticancer drug discovery. Since ATP binding of HSP90 is a prerequisite for HSP90-Sba1/p23 binding, ATP-competitive inhibitors can be identified with the assays. The specificity of binding of fusion protein constructs-HSP90-mNeonGreen (donor) and Sba1-mScarlet-I (acceptor)-to each other in our assay was confirmed via competitive inhibition by both non-labeled Sba1 and known ATP-competitive inhibitors. We utilized the developed assays to characterize the stability of both HSP90-Sba1 and HSP90α-p23 affinity complexes quantitatively. Kd values were determined and assessed for their precision and accuracy using the 95.5% confidence level. For HSP90-Sba1, the precision confidence interval (PCI) was found to be 70-120 (100 ± 20) nM while the accuracy confidence interval (ACI) was 100-130 nM. For HSP90α-p23, PCI was 180-260 (220 ± 40) nM and ACI was 200-270 nM. The developed assays were used to screen a nucleoside-mimetics library of 320 compounds for inhibitory activity against both C. albicans HSP90-Sba1 and human HSP90α-p23 binding. No novel active compounds were identified. Overall, the developed assays exhibited low data variability and robust signal separation, achieving Z factors > 0.5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Kohlmann
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacampus, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany;
| | - Sergey N. Krylov
- Department of Chemistry, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada;
- Centre for Research on Biomolecular Interactions, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - Pascal Marchand
- Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l’Immunité, IICiMed, Nantes Université, UR 1155, F-44000 Nantes, France;
| | - Joachim Jose
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacampus, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany;
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Puumala E, Fallah S, Robbins N, Cowen LE. Advancements and challenges in antifungal therapeutic development. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0014223. [PMID: 38294218 PMCID: PMC10938895 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00142-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Over recent decades, the global burden of fungal disease has expanded dramatically. It is estimated that fungal disease kills approximately 1.5 million individuals annually; however, the true worldwide burden of fungal infection is thought to be higher due to existing gaps in diagnostics and clinical understanding of mycotic disease. The development of resistance to antifungals across diverse pathogenic fungal genera is an increasingly common and devastating phenomenon due to the dearth of available antifungal classes. These factors necessitate a coordinated response by researchers, clinicians, public health agencies, and the pharmaceutical industry to develop new antifungal strategies, as the burden of fungal disease continues to grow. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the new antifungal therapeutics currently in clinical trials, highlighting their spectra of activity and progress toward clinical implementation. We also profile up-and-coming intracellular proteins and pathways primed for the development of novel antifungals targeting their activity. Ultimately, we aim to emphasize the importance of increased investment into antifungal therapeutics in the current continually evolving landscape of infectious disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Puumala
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sara Fallah
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leah E. Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Vanzolini T, Magnani M. Old and new strategies in therapy and diagnosis against fungal infections. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:147. [PMID: 38240822 PMCID: PMC10799149 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12884-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Fungal infections represent a serious global health threat. The new emerging pathogens and the spread of different forms of resistance are now hardly challenging the tools available in therapy and diagnostics. With the commonly used diagnoses, fungal identification is often slow and inaccurate, and, on the other hand, some drugs currently used as treatments are significantly affected by the decrease in susceptibility. Herein, the antifungal arsenal is critically summarized. Besides describing the old approaches and their mechanisms, advantages, and limitations, the focus is dedicated to innovative strategies which are designed, identified, and developed to take advantage of the discrepancies between fungal and host cells. Relevant pathways and their role in survival and virulence are discussed as their suitability as sources of antifungal targets. In a similar way, molecules with antifungal activity are reported as potential agents/precursors of the next generation of antimycotics. Particular attention was devoted to biotechnological entities, to their novelty and reliability, to drug repurposing and restoration, and to combinatorial applications yielding significant improvements in efficacy. KEY POINTS: • New antifungal agents and targets are needed to limit fungal morbidity and mortality. • Therapeutics and diagnostics suffer of delays in innovation and lack of targets. • Biologics, drug repurposing and combinations are the future of antifungal treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Vanzolini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, PU, Italy.
| | - Mauro Magnani
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, PU, Italy
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Lim SJ, Muhd Noor ND, Sabri S, Mohamad Ali MS, Salleh AB, Oslan SN. Bibliometric analysis and thematic review of Candida pathogenesis: Fundamental omics to applications as potential antifungal drugs and vaccines. Med Mycol 2024; 62:myad126. [PMID: 38061839 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad126] [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: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Invasive candidiasis caused by the pathogenic Candida yeast species has resulted in elevating global mortality. The pathogenicity of Candida spp. is not only originated from its primary invasive yeast-to-hyphal transition; virulence factors (transcription factors, adhesins, invasins, and enzymes), biofilm, antifungal drug resistance, stress tolerance, and metabolic adaptation have also contributed to a greater clinical burden. However, the current research theme in fungal pathogenicity could hardly be delineated with the increasing research output. Therefore, our study analysed the research trends in Candida pathogenesis over the past 37 years via a bibliometric approach against the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Based on the 3993 unique documents retrieved, significant international collaborations among researchers were observed, especially between Germany (Bernhard Hube) and the UK (Julian Naglik), whose focuses are on Candida proteinases, adhesins, and candidalysin. The prominent researchers (Neils Gow, Alistair Brown, and Frank Odds) at the University of Exeter and the University of Aberdeen (second top performing affiliation) UK contribute significantly to the mechanisms of Candida adaptation, tolerance, and stress response. However, the science mapping of co-citation analysis performed herein could not identify a hub representative of subsequent work since the clusters were semi-redundant. The co-word analysis that was otherwise adopted, revealed three research clusters; the cluster-based thematic analyses indicated the severeness of Candida biofilm and antifungal resistance as well as the elevating trend on molecular mechanism elucidation for drug screening and repurposing. Importantly, the in vivo pathogen adaptation and interactions with hosts are crucial for potential vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Jie Lim
- Enzyme Technology and X-ray Crystallography Laboratory, VacBio 5, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology (EMTech) Research Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Noor Dina Muhd Noor
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology (EMTech) Research Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Suriana Sabri
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology (EMTech) Research Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Shukuri Mohamad Ali
- Enzyme Technology and X-ray Crystallography Laboratory, VacBio 5, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology (EMTech) Research Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Abu Bakar Salleh
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology (EMTech) Research Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Siti Nurbaya Oslan
- Enzyme Technology and X-ray Crystallography Laboratory, VacBio 5, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Enzyme and Microbial Technology (EMTech) Research Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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11
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Liu J, Shu H, Xia Q, You Q, Wang L. Recent developments of HSP90 inhibitors: an updated patent review (2020-present). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2024; 34:1-15. [PMID: 38441084 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2024.2327295] [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: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The 90-kDa heat shock protein (HSP90) functions as a molecular chaperone, it assumes a significant role in diseases such as cancer, inflammation, neurodegeneration, and infection. Therefore, the research and development of HSP90 inhibitors have garnered considerable attention. AREAS COVERED The primary references source for this review is patents obtained from SciFinder, encompassing patents on HSP90 inhibitors from the period of 2020 to 2023.This review includes a thorough analysis of their structural attributes, pharmacological properties, and potential clinical utilities. EXPERT OPINION In the past few years, HSP90 inhibitors targeting ATP binding pocket are still predominate and one of them has been launched, besides, novel drug design strategies like C-terminal targeting, isoform selective inhibiting and bifunctional molecules are booming, aiming to improve the efficacy and safety. With expanded drug types and applications, HSP90 inhibitors may gradually becoming a sagacious option for treating various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huangliang Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qinxin Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qidong You
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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12
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Kaur A, Sharma K, Sharma N, Aggarwal G. An Insight into the Repurposing of Phytoconstituents obtained from Delhi's Aravalli Biodiversity Park as Antifungal Agents. Infect Disord Drug Targets 2024; 24:e020224226666. [PMID: 38305295 DOI: 10.2174/0118715265282411240119061441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
The global prevalence of fungal infections is alarming in both the pre- and post- COVID period. Due to a limited number of antifungal drugs, there are hurdles in treatment strategies for fungal infections due to toxic potential, drug interactions, and the development of fungal resistance. All the antifungal targets (existing and newer) and pipeline molecules showing promise against these targets are reviewed. The objective was to predict or repurpose phyto-based antifungal compounds based on a dual target inhibition approach (Sterol-14-α- demethylase and HSP-90) using a case study. In pursuit of repurposing the phytochemicals as antifungal agents, a team of researchers visited Aravalli Biodiversity Park (ABP), Delhi, India, to collect information on available medicinal plants. From 45 plants, a total of 1149 ligands were collected, and virtual screening was performed using Schrodinger Suite 2016 software to get 83 hits against both the target proteins: Sterol-14-α-demethylase and HSP-90. After analysis of docking results, ligands were selected based on their interaction against both the target proteins and comparison with respective standard ligands (fluconazole and ganetespib). We have selected Isocarthamidin, Quercetin and Boeravinone B based on their docking score and binding interaction against the HSP-90 (Docking Score -9.65, -9.22 and -9.21, respectively) and 14-α-demethylase (Docking Score -9.19, -10.76 and -9.74 respectively). The docking protocol was validated and MM/GBSA studies depicted better stability of selected three ligands (Isocarthamidin, Quercetin, Boeravinone B) complex as compared to standard complex. Further, MD simulation studies were performed using the Desmond (67) software package version 2018-4. All the findings are presented as a case study for the prediction of dual targets for the repurposing of certain phytochemicals as antifungal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanpreet Kaur
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, M.B. Road, Sector III, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, 110017, India
| | - Kalicharan Sharma
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, M.B. Road, Sector III, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, 110017, India
| | - Neetika Sharma
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, M.B. Road, Sector III, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, 110017, India
| | - Geeta Aggarwal
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, M.B. Road, Sector III, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, 110017, India
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13
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Rouges C, Asad M, Laurent AD, Marchand P, Le Pape P. Is the C-Terminal Domain an Effective and Selective Target for the Design of Hsp90 Inhibitors against Candida Yeast? Microorganisms 2023; 11:2837. [PMID: 38137982 PMCID: PMC10745388 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11122837] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Improving the armamentarium to treat invasive candidiasis has become necessary to overcome drug resistance and the lack of alternative therapy. In the pathogenic fungus Candida albicans, the 90-kDa Heat-Shock Protein (Hsp90) has been described as a major regulator of virulence and resistance, offering a promising target. Some human Hsp90 inhibitors have shown activity against Candida spp. in vitro, but host toxicity has limited their use as antifungal drugs. The conservation of Hsp90 across all species leads to selectivity issues. To assess the potential of Hsp90 as a druggable antifungal target, the activity of nine structurally unrelated Hsp90 inhibitors with different binding domains was evaluated against a panel of Candida clinical isolates. The Hsp90 sequences from human and yeast species were aligned. Despite the degree of similarity between human and yeast N-terminal domain residues, the in vitro activities measured for the inhibitors interacting with this domain were not reproducible against all Candida species. Moreover, the inhibitors binding to the C-terminal domain (CTD) did not show any antifungal activity, with the exception of one of them. Given the greater sequence divergence in this domain, the identification of selective CTD inhibitors of fungal Hsp90 could be a promising strategy for the development of innovative antifungal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Célia Rouges
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l’Immunité, IICiMed, UR 1155, F-44000 Nantes, France; (C.R.); (P.M.)
| | - Mohammad Asad
- Nantes Université, CNRS, CEISAM, UMR 6230, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Adèle D. Laurent
- Nantes Université, CNRS, CEISAM, UMR 6230, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Pascal Marchand
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l’Immunité, IICiMed, UR 1155, F-44000 Nantes, France; (C.R.); (P.M.)
| | - Patrice Le Pape
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l’Immunité, IICiMed, UR 1155, F-44000 Nantes, France; (C.R.); (P.M.)
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14
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Cheng J, Yin X, Wang L, Liu X, Yang F, Zhang L, Liu T. Decoding molecular mechanism of species-selective targeting of fungal versus human HSP90 using multiple replica molecular dynamics simulations and binding free energy calculations. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023:1-11. [PMID: 37850420 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2270687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
As a highly evolutionarily conserved molecular chaperone, heat shock protein (HSP90), plays an important role in virulence traits, representing a therapeutic target for the treatment of fungal infections. The close evolutionary relationship between fungi and their human hosts poses a key challenge for the development of selective antifungal agents. In this work, molecular docking, multiple replica microsecond-based molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and binding free energy calculations were performed to decode molecular mechanism of species-selective targeting of fungal versus human HSP90 triggered by the compound A11. MD simulations reveal that binding of compound A11 to human HSP90 nucleotide-binding domain (NBD) leads to obvious conformational changes relative to fungal HSP90 NBD. Binding free energy calculations show that the binding of compound A11 to fungal HSP90 NBD is stronger than that to human HSP90 NBD. Per residue-based free energy decomposition analysis was used to evaluate the inhibitor - residue interaction profile. The results efficiently identify the hot spot residues that play vital roles in favorable binding of compound A11 to fungal HSP90 NBD. This study is expected to provide a useful guidance for the development of selective inhibitors toward fungal HSP90.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinying Cheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Xue Yin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Lulu Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Xianxian Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Liguo Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Tonggang Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, Shandong, China
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15
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Elumalai L, Palaniyandi S, Anbazhagan GK, Mohanam N, Munusamy S, G K SR, Pudukadu Munusamy A, Chinnasamy M, Ramasamy B. Synthesis of biogenic cadmium sulfide nanoparticles (MR03-CdSNPs) using marine Streptomyces kunmingensis - MR03 for in-vitro biological determinations and in silico analysis on biofilm virulence proteins: A novel approach. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 235:116698. [PMID: 37474092 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lokesh Elumalai
- Actinobacterial Research Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu, 636011, India
| | - Sankarganesh Palaniyandi
- Department of Food Technology, Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, Padur, OMR, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 603103, India
| | - Ganesh Kumar Anbazhagan
- Centre for Research and Development, Department of Microbiology, Hindustan College of Arts & Science, Padur, OMR, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 603103, India
| | - Nithyalakshmi Mohanam
- Actinobacterial Research Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu, 636011, India
| | - Santhakumar Munusamy
- Actinobacterial Research Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu, 636011, India
| | - Sri Ragavi G K
- Actinobacterial Research Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu, 636011, India
| | - Ayyasamy Pudukadu Munusamy
- Bioremediation Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu, 636011, India
| | - Muthusamy Chinnasamy
- Department of Biotechnology, Srinivasan College of Arts and Science, (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University), Perambalur, Tamil Nadu, 621212, India
| | - Balagurunathan Ramasamy
- Actinobacterial Research Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu, 636011, India.
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16
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Robbins N, Cowen LE. Roles of Hsp90 in Candida albicans morphogenesis and virulence. Curr Opin Microbiol 2023; 75:102351. [PMID: 37399670 PMCID: PMC11016340 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2023.102351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Hsp90 is a conserved molecular chaperone that facilitates the folding and function of hundreds of client proteins, many of which serve as core hubs of signal transduction networks. Hsp90 has a critical role in virulence of the opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans, which exists as a natural commensal of the human microbiota and is a leading cause of invasive fungal infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. The ability of C. albicans to cause disease is tightly coupled to its capacity to undergo a morphogenetic transition between yeast and filamentous forms. Here, we describe the complex mechanisms by which Hsp90 regulates C. albicans morphogenesis and virulence, and explore the potential of targeting fungal Hsp90 as a therapeutic strategy to combat fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leah E Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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17
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Abstract
Fungal infections are rising, with over 1.5 billion cases and more than 1 million deaths recorded each year. Among these, Candida infections are frequent in at-risk populations and the rapid development of drug resistance and tolerance contributes to their clinical persistence. Few antifungal drugs are available, and their efficacy is declining due to the environmental overuse and the expansion of multidrug-resistant species. One way to prolong their utility is by applying them in combination therapy. Here, we highlight recently described azole potentiators belonging to different categories: natural, repurposed, or novel compounds. We showcase examples of molecules and discuss their identified or proposed mode of action. We also emphasise the challenges in azole potentiator development, compounded by the lack of animal testing, the overreliance on Candida albicans and Candida auris, as well as the limited understanding of compound efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Iuliana V. Ene
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Fungal Heterogeneity Group, Paris, France
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18
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Abd El-Razek MH, Saleh IA, Abdel-Halim S, Bata SM, Essa AF, Hussien TA, El-Beih AA, Mohamed TA, Hegazy MEF. Secondary Metabolites Generated from Saussurea lappa and Ligusticum sinensis Essential Oils by Microwave-Assisted Hydrodistillation: in Silico Molecular Docking and in Vitro Antibacterial Efficacy. Chem Biodivers 2023; 20:e202201249. [PMID: 37358062 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202201249] [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: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
In the current study, both the essential oil composition and biological activity of Saussurea lappa and Ligusticum sinensis were investigated by means of microwave-assisted hydrodistillation (MAHD) and characterized by Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), whereas the antimicrobial efficiency of MAHD essential oils was examined against four pathogens: Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger, and Candida albicans responsible for microbial infections. The goal was to spot synergy and a favorable method that gives essential oils to possibly use as alternatives to common antimicrobial agents for the treatment of bacterial infections using a microdilution assay. S. lappa's 21 compounds were characterized by MAHD extraction. Sesquiterpene lactones (39.7 % MAHD) represented the major components, followed by sesquiterpene dialdehyde (25.50 % MAHD), while L. sinensis's 14 compounds were identified by MAHD extraction. Tetrahydroisobenzofurans (72.94 % MAHD) was the predominant compound class. S. lappa essential oil collection showed the strongest antimicrobial activity with MIC values of 16 μg/ml against all pathogens tested, while L. sinensis showed strong antibacterial activity and moderate antifungal activity with MIC values of 32 μg/ml and 500 μg/ml, respectively. The principal components of both oils, (velleral, eremanthin and neocnidilide), were docked into the bacterial histidine kinase (HK) and the fungal heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed H Abd El-Razek
- Department of Natural Compounds Chemistry, National Research Center, 33 El-Bohouth St., Dokki, Giza, 12622, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim A Saleh
- Chemistry of Medicinal Plants Department, National Research Center, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, Giza, 12622, Egypt
| | - Sally Abdel-Halim
- Chemistry of Medicinal Plants Department, National Research Center, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, Giza, 12622, Egypt
| | - Shaymaa M Bata
- Chemistry of Medicinal Plants Department, National Research Center, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, Giza, 12622, Egypt
| | - Ahmed F Essa
- Department of Natural Compounds Chemistry, National Research Center, 33 El-Bohouth St., Dokki, Giza, 12622, Egypt
| | - Taha A Hussien
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sphinx University, New Assiut City, Assiut, 10, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A El-Beih
- Chemistry of Natural & Microbial Products Department, National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, 12622, Egypt
| | - Tarik A Mohamed
- Chemistry of Medicinal Plants Department, National Research Center, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, Giza, 12622, Egypt
| | - Mohamed-Elamir F Hegazy
- Chemistry of Medicinal Plants Department, National Research Center, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, Giza, 12622, Egypt
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19
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Lu H, Hong T, Jiang Y, Whiteway M, Zhang S. Candidiasis: From cutaneous to systemic, new perspectives of potential targets and therapeutic strategies. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 199:114960. [PMID: 37307922 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Candidiasis is an infection caused by fungi from a Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans. C. albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen typically residing on human skin and mucous membranes of the mouth, intestines or vagina. It can cause a wide variety of mucocutaneous barrier and systemic infections; and becomes a severe health problem in HIV/AIDS patients and in individuals who are immunocompromised following chemotherapy, treatment with immunosuppressive agents or after antibiotic-induced dysbiosis. However, the immune mechanism of host resistance to C. albicans infection is not fully understood, there are a limited number of therapeutic antifungal drugs for candidiasis, and these have disadvantages that limit their clinical application. Therefore, it is urgent to uncover the immune mechanisms of the host protecting against candidiasis and to develop new antifungal strategies. This review synthesizes current knowledge of host immune defense mechanisms from cutaneous candidiasis to invasive C. albicans infection and documents promising insights for treating candidiasis through inhibitors of potential antifungal target proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ting Hong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanying Jiang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Malcolm Whiteway
- Department of Biology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - Shiqun Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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20
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Que NLS, Seidler PM, Aw WJ, Chiosis G, Gewirth DT. Selective inhibition of hsp90 paralogs: Structure and binding studies uncover the role of helix 1 in Grp94-selective ligand binding. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.31.551342. [PMID: 37577523 PMCID: PMC10418071 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.31.551342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Grp94 is the endoplasmic reticulum paralog of the hsp90 family of chaperones, which have been targeted for therapeutic intervention via their highly conserved ATP binding sites. The design of paralog-selective inhibitors relies on understanding the structural elements that mediate each paralog's response to inhibitor binding. Here, we determined the structures of Grp94 and Hsp90 in complex with the Grp94-selective inhibitor PU-H36, and of Grp94 with the non-selective inhibitor PU-H71. In Grp94, the 8-aryl moiety of PU-H36 is inserted into Site 2, a conditionally available side pocket, but in Hsp90 it occupies Site 1, a non-selective side pocket that is accessible in all hsp90 paralogs. The structure of Grp94 in complex with the non-selective PU-H71 shows only Site 1 binding. Large conformational shifts involving helices 1, 4 and 5 of the N-terminal domain of Grp94 are associated with the engagement of the Site 2 pocket for ligand binding. To understand the origins of Site 2 pocket engagement, we tested the binding of Grp94-selective ligands to chimeric Grp94/Hsp90 constructs. These studies show that helix 1 of the Grp94 N-terminal domain is the discriminating element that allows for remodeling of the ATP binding pocket and exposure of the Site 2 selective pocket.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul M. Seidler
- Hauptman Woodward Medical Research Institute, Buffalo, NY 14203
| | - Wen J. Aw
- Hauptman Woodward Medical Research Institute, Buffalo, NY 14203
| | - Gabriela Chiosis
- Chemical Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
| | - Daniel T. Gewirth
- Hauptman Woodward Medical Research Institute, Buffalo, NY 14203
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center Buffalo, NY 14263
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21
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Lee Y, Robbins N, Cowen LE. Molecular mechanisms governing antifungal drug resistance. NPJ ANTIMICROBIALS AND RESISTANCE 2023; 1:5. [PMID: 38686214 PMCID: PMC11057204 DOI: 10.1038/s44259-023-00007-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Fungal pathogens are a severe public health problem. The leading causative agents of systemic fungal infections include species from the Candida, Cryptococcus, and Aspergillus genera. As opportunistic pathogens, these fungi are generally harmless in healthy hosts; however, they can cause significant morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. Despite the profound impact of pathogenic fungi on global human health, the current antifungal armamentarium is limited to only three major classes of drugs, all of which face complications, including host toxicity, unfavourable pharmacokinetics, or limited spectrum of activity. Further exacerbating this issue is the growing prevalence of antifungal-resistant infections and the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens. In this review, we discuss the diverse strategies employed by leading fungal pathogens to evolve antifungal resistance, including drug target alterations, enhanced drug efflux, and induction of cellular stress response pathways. Such mechanisms of resistance occur through diverse genetic alterations, including point mutations, aneuploidy formation, and epigenetic changes given the significant plasticity observed in many fungal genomes. Additionally, we highlight recent literature surrounding the mechanisms governing resistance in emerging multidrug-resistant pathogens including Candida auris and Candida glabrata. Advancing our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms by which fungi adapt to the challenge of antifungal exposure is imperative for designing therapeutic strategies to tackle the emerging threat of antifungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjin Lee
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
| | - Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
| | - Leah E. Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
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22
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Zhai Y, Pribis JP, Dooling SW, Garcia-Villada L, Minnick P, Xia J, Liu J, Mei Q, Fitzgerald DM, Herman C, Hastings P, Costa-Mattioli M, Rosenberg SM. Drugging evolution of antibiotic resistance at a regulatory network hub. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadg0188. [PMID: 37352342 PMCID: PMC10289659 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adg0188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Evolution of antibiotic resistance is a world health crisis, fueled by new mutations. Drugs to slow mutagenesis could, as cotherapies, prolong the shelf-life of antibiotics, yet evolution-slowing drugs and drug targets have been underexplored and ineffective. Here, we used a network-based strategy to identify drugs that block hubs of fluoroquinolone antibiotic-induced mutagenesis. We identify a U.S. Food and Drug Administration- and European Medicines Agency-approved drug, dequalinium chloride (DEQ), that inhibits activation of the Escherichia coli general stress response, which promotes ciprofloxacin-induced (stress-induced) mutagenic DNA break repair. We uncover the step in the pathway inhibited: activation of the upstream "stringent" starvation stress response, and find that DEQ slows evolution without favoring proliferation of DEQ-resistant mutants. Furthermore, we demonstrate stress-induced mutagenesis during mouse infections and its inhibition by DEQ. Our work provides a proof-of-concept strategy for drugs to slow evolution in bacteria and generally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Zhai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - John P. Pribis
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Graduate Program in Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sean W. Dooling
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Libertad Garcia-Villada
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- The Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - P.J. Minnick
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- The Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jun Xia
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- The Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jingjing Liu
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- The Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Qian Mei
- The Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Program, Rice University, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Devon M. Fitzgerald
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- The Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Christophe Herman
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Graduate Program in Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- The Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - P.J. Hastings
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- The Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mauro Costa-Mattioli
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Susan M. Rosenberg
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Graduate Program in Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- The Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Program, Rice University, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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23
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Yang F, Wang Y, Yan D, Liu Z, Wei B, Chen J, He W. Binding Mechanism of Inhibitors to Heat Shock Protein 90 Investigated by Multiple Independent Molecular Dynamics Simulations and Prediction of Binding Free Energy. Molecules 2023; 28:4792. [PMID: 37375347 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28124792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The heat shock protein (HSP90) has been an import target of drug design in the treatment of human disease. An exploration of the conformational changes in HSP90 can provide useful information for the development of efficient inhibitors targeting HSP90. In this work, multiple independent all-atom molecular dynamics (AAMD) simulations followed by calculations of the molecular mechanics generalized Born surface area (MM-GBSA) were performed to explore the binding mechanism of three inhibitors (W8Y, W8V, and W8S) to HSP90. The dynamics analyses verified that the presence of inhibitors impacts the structural flexibility, correlated movements, and dynamics behavior of HSP90. The results of the MM-GBSA calculations suggest that the selection of GB models and empirical parameters has important influences on the predicted results and verify that van der Waals interactions are the main forces that determine inhibitor-HSP90 binding. The contributions of separate residues to the inhibitor-HSP90 binding process indicate that hydrogen-bonding interactions (HBIs) and hydrophobic interactions play important roles in HSP90-inhibitor identifications. Moreover, residues L34, N37, D40, A41, D79, I82, G83, M84, F124, and T171 are recognized as hot spots of inhibitor-HSP90 binding and provide significant target sites of for the design of drugs related to HSP90. This study aims to contribute to the development of efficient inhibitors that target HSP90 by providing an energy-based and theoretical foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fen Yang
- School of Information Science and Electrical Engineering, Shandong Jiaotong University, Jinan 250357, China
| | - Yiwen Wang
- School of Information Science and Electrical Engineering, Shandong Jiaotong University, Jinan 250357, China
- School of Aeronautics, Shandong Jiaotong University, Jinan 250357, China
| | - Dongliang Yan
- School of Information Science and Electrical Engineering, Shandong Jiaotong University, Jinan 250357, China
- School of Science, Shandong Jiaotong University, Jinan 250357, China
| | - Zhongtao Liu
- School of Information Science and Electrical Engineering, Shandong Jiaotong University, Jinan 250357, China
| | - Benzheng Wei
- Center for Medical Artificial Intelligence, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qingdao 266112, China
| | - Jianzhong Chen
- School of Science, Shandong Jiaotong University, Jinan 250357, China
| | - Weikai He
- School of Aeronautics, Shandong Jiaotong University, Jinan 250357, China
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Zhu P, Li Y, Guo T, Liu S, Tancer RJ, Hu C, Zhao C, Xue C, Liao G. New antifungal strategies: drug combination and co-delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 198:114874. [PMID: 37211279 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The growing occurrence of invasive fungal infections and the mounting rates of drug resistance constitute a significant menace to human health. Antifungal drug combinations have garnered substantial interest for their potential to improve therapeutic efficacy, reduce drug doses, reverse, or ameliorate drug resistance. A thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying antifungal drug resistance and drug combination is key to developing new drug combinations. Here we discuss the mechanisms of antifungal drug resistance and elucidate how to discover potent drug combinations to surmount resistance. We also examine the challenges encountered in developing such combinations and discuss prospects, including advanced drug delivery strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400700, China
| | - Yan Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Antimicrobial Agents, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Ting Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400700, China
| | - Simei Liu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 402760, China; Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chongqing Academy of Chinese Materia Medica, Chongqing 400065, China
| | - Robert J Tancer
- Public Health Research Institute and Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Changhua Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400700, China
| | - Chengzhi Zhao
- Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, 400700, PR China.
| | - Chaoyang Xue
- Public Health Research Institute and Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Guojian Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400700, China.
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25
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Hu L, Sun C, Kidd JM, Han J, Fang X, Li H, Liu Q, May AE, Li Q, Zhou L, Liu Q. A first-in-class inhibitor of Hsp110 molecular chaperones of pathogenic fungi. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2745. [PMID: 37173314 PMCID: PMC10182041 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38220-2] [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: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteins of the Hsp110 family are molecular chaperones that play important roles in protein homeostasis in eukaryotes. The pathogenic fungus Candida albicans, which causes infections in humans, has a single Hsp110, termed Msi3. Here, we provide proof-of-principle evidence supporting fungal Hsp110s as targets for the development of new antifungal drugs. We identify a pyrazolo[3,4-b] pyridine derivative, termed HLQ2H (or 2H), that inhibits the biochemical and chaperone activities of Msi3, as well as the growth and viability of C. albicans. Moreover, the fungicidal activity of 2H correlates with its inhibition of in vivo protein folding. We propose 2H and related compounds as promising leads for development of new antifungals and as pharmacological tools for the study of the molecular mechanisms and functions of Hsp110s.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqing Hu
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Cancan Sun
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Justin M Kidd
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Jizhong Han
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Xianjun Fang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Hongtao Li
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Qingdai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Tianjin University of Science & Technology, Tianjin, 300457, China
| | - Aaron E May
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Qianbin Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China.
| | - Qinglian Liu
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
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26
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Li Z, Huang Y, Tu J, Yang W, Liu N, Wang W, Sheng C. Discovery of BRD4-HDAC Dual Inhibitors with Improved Fungal Selectivity and Potent Synergistic Antifungal Activity against Fluconazole-Resistant Candida albicans. J Med Chem 2023; 66:5950-5964. [PMID: 37037787 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Over the past several decades, invasive fungal infections, especially candidiasis, have caused dramatic morbidity and mortality due to ineffective antifungal drugs and severe drug resistance. Herein, new BRD4-histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors were designed to restore the susceptibility of Candida albicans (C. albicans) to fluconazole (FLC). Interestingly, several compounds showed excellent selectivity against fungal HDACs. In particular, compound B2 showed excellent synergistic effect with FLC against resistant C. albicans (FICI = 0.063) with high selectivity against fungal HDACs (SI = 1653) and low cytotoxicity. Compound B2 effectively synergized with FLC and prevented biofilm formation and morphological transition in resistant C. albicans, potentiating the antifungal activity of FLC in vivo and significantly reducing kidney fungal loads. Thus, this drug combination is promising in the treatment of resistant C. albicans infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Reactor, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yahui Huang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Tu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanzhen Yang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Reactor, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science & Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai 200237, China
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, and BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, 1703 E. Mabel Street, P.O. Box 210207, Tucson, Arizona 85721-0207, United States
| | - Chunquan Sheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University (Naval Medical University), 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
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Liu N, Tu J, Huang Y, Yang W, Wang Q, Li Z, Sheng C. Target- and prodrug-based design for fungal diseases and cancer-associated fungal infections. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 197:114819. [PMID: 37024014 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are emerging as a serious threat to public health and are associated with high incidence and mortality. IFIs also represent a frequent complication in patients with cancer who are undergoing chemotherapy. However, effective and safe antifungal agents remain limited, and the development of severe drug resistance further undermines the efficacy of antifungal therapy. Therefore, there is an urgent need for novel antifungal agents to treat life-threatening fungal diseases, especially those with new mode of action, favorable pharmacokinetic profiles, and anti-resistance activity. In this review, we summarize new antifungal targets and target-based inhibitor design, with a focus on their antifungal activity, selectivity, and mechanism. We also illustrate the prodrug design strategy used to improve the physicochemical and pharmacokinetic profiles of antifungal agents. Dual-targeting antifungal agents offer a new strategy for the treatment of resistant infections and cancer-associated fungal infections.
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28
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Lee Y, Hossain S, MacAlpine J, Robbins N, Cowen LE. Functional genomic analysis of Candida albicans protein kinases reveals modulators of morphogenesis in diverse environments. iScience 2023; 26:106145. [PMID: 36879823 PMCID: PMC9984565 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a leading cause of mycotic infection. The ability to transition between yeast and filamentous forms is critical to C. albicans virulence and complex signaling pathways regulate this process. Here, we screened a C. albicans protein kinase mutant library in six environmental conditions to identify regulators of morphogenesis. We identified the uncharacterized gene orf19.3751 as a negative regulator of filamentation and follow-up investigations implicated a role for orf19.3751 in cell cycle regulation. We also uncovered a dual role for the kinases Ire1 and protein kinase A (Tpk1 and Tpk2) in C. albicans morphogenesis, specifically as negative regulators of wrinkly colony formation on solid medium but positive regulators of filamentation in liquid medium. Further analyses suggested Ire1 modulates morphogenesis in both media states in part through the transcription factor Hac1 and in part through independent mechanisms. Overall, this work provides insights into the signaling governing morphogenesis in C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjin Lee
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Saif Hossain
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Jessie MacAlpine
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Leah E Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
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29
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Hoy MJ, Heitman J. Drug Target Elucidation Through Isolation and Analysis of Drug-Resistant Mutants in Cryptococcus neoformans. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2658:127-143. [PMID: 37024699 PMCID: PMC10602406 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3155-3_9] [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] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Drug target identification is an essential component to antifungal drug development. Many methods, including large chemical library screening, natural product screening, and drug repurposing efforts, can identify compounds with favorable in vitro antifungal activity. However, these approaches will often identify compounds with no known mechanism of action. Herein, we describe a method utilizing the human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans to identify antifungal drug targets through the isolation of spontaneous resistant mutants, antifungal testing, whole-genome sequencing, and variant analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Hoy
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
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30
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Choudhary M, Kumar V, Naik B, Verma A, Saris PEJ, Kumar V, Gupta S. Antifungal metabolites, their novel sources, and targets to combat drug resistance. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1061603. [PMID: 36532457 PMCID: PMC9755354 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1061603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive antibiotic prescriptions as well as their misuse in agriculture are the main causes of antimicrobial resistance which poses a growing threat to public health. It necessitates the search for novel chemicals to combat drug resistance. Since ancient times, naturally occurring medicines have been employed and the enormous variety of bioactive chemicals found in nature has long served as an inspiration for researchers looking for possible therapeutics. Secondary metabolites from microorganisms, particularly those from actinomycetes, have made it incredibly easy to find new molecules. Different actinomycetes species account for more than 70% of naturally generated antibiotics currently used in medicine, and they also produce a variety of secondary metabolites, including pigments, enzymes, and anti-inflammatory compounds. They continue to be a crucial source of fresh chemical diversity and a crucial component of drug discovery. This review summarizes some uncommon sources of antifungal metabolites and highlights the importance of further research on these unusual habitats as a source of novel antimicrobial molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megha Choudhary
- Himalayan School of Biosciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, India
| | - Vijay Kumar
- Himalayan School of Biosciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, India
| | - Bindu Naik
- Department of Life Sciences (Food Technology & Nutrition), Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun, India
| | - Ankit Verma
- Himalayan School of Biosciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, India
| | - Per Erik Joakim Saris
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Vivek Kumar
- Himalayan School of Biosciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, India
| | - Sanjay Gupta
- Himalayan School of Biosciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, India
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31
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Hossain S, Robbins N, Cowen LE. The GARP complex is required for filamentation in Candida albicans. Genetics 2022; 222:iyac152. [PMID: 36226807 PMCID: PMC9713427 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyac152] [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: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that causes superficial infections in immunocompetent individuals, as well as life-threatening systemic disease in immunocompromised patients. A key virulence trait of this pathogen is its ability to transition between yeast and filamentous morphologies. A functional genomic screen to identify novel regulators of filamentation previously revealed VPS53 as being important for morphogenesis. Vps53 belongs to the Golgi-associated retrograde protein (GARP) complex, which mediates retrograde trafficking from the endosome to the trans-Golgi network. Here, we explored the role of the entire GARP complex in regulating morphogenesis. Deletion of any of the four genes encoding GARP complex subunits severely impaired filamentation in response to diverse filament-inducing cues, including upon internalization by macrophages. Genetic pathway analysis revealed that while hyperactivation of protein kinase A (PKA) signaling is insufficient to drive filamentation in GARP complex mutants, these strains are capable of filamentation upon overexpression of transcriptional activators or upon deletion of transcriptional repressors of hyphal morphogenesis. Finally, compromise of the GARP complex induced lipotoxicity, and pharmacological inhibition of sphingolipid biosynthesis phenocopied genetic compromise of the GARP complex by impairing filamentation. Together, this work identifies the GARP complex as an important mediator of filamentation in response to multiple inducing cues, maps genetic circuitry important for filamentation upon compromise of GARP function, and supports a model whereby GARP deficiency impairs lipid homeostasis, which is important for supporting filamentous growth in C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif Hossain
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Leah E Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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32
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Aguoru NA, Kirk RS, Walker AJ. Molecular insights into the heat shock proteins of the human parasitic blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:365. [PMID: 36229862 PMCID: PMC9559072 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05500-7] [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: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are evolutionarily conserved proteins, produced by cells in response to hostile environmental conditions, that are vital to organism homeostasis. Here, we undertook the first detailed molecular bioinformatic analysis of these important proteins and mapped their tissue expression in the human parasitic blood fluke, Schistosoma mansoni, one of the causative agents of the neglected tropical disease human schistosomiasis. Methods Using bioinformatic tools we classified and phylogenetically analysed HSP family members in schistosomes, and performed transcriptomic, phosphoproteomic, and interactomic analysis of the S. mansoni HSPs. In addition, S. mansoni HSP protein expression was mapped in intact parasites using immunofluorescence. Results Fifty-five HSPs were identified in S. mansoni across five HSP families; high conservation of HSP sequences were apparent across S. mansoni, Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma japonicum, with S. haematobium HSPs showing greater similarity to S. mansoni than those of S. japonicum. For S. mansoni, differential HSP gene expression was evident across the various parasite life stages, supporting varying roles for the HSPs in the different stages, and suggesting that they might confer some degree of protection during life stage transitions. Protein expression patterns of HSPs were visualised in intact S. mansoni cercariae, 3 h and 24 h somules, and adult male and female worms, revealing HSPs in the tegument, cephalic ganglia, tubercles, testes, ovaries as well as other important organs. Analysis of putative HSP protein-protein associations highlighted proteins that are involved in transcription, modification, stability, and ubiquitination; functional enrichment analysis revealed functions for HSP networks in S. mansoni including protein export for HSP 40/70, and FOXO/mTOR signalling for HSP90 networks. Finally, a total of 76 phosphorylation sites were discovered within 17 of the 55 HSPs, with 30 phosphorylation sites being conserved with those of human HSPs, highlighting their likely core functional significance. Conclusions This analysis highlights the fascinating biology of S. mansoni HSPs and their likely importance to schistosome function, offering a valuable and novel framework for future physiological investigations into the roles of HSPs in schistosomes, particularly in the context of survival in the host and with the aim of developing novel anti-schistosome therapeutics. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05500-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy A Aguoru
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 2EE, Surrey, UK
| | - Ruth S Kirk
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 2EE, Surrey, UK
| | - Anthony J Walker
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 2EE, Surrey, UK.
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33
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Robbins N, Cowen LE. Antifungal discovery. Curr Opin Microbiol 2022; 69:102198. [PMID: 36037637 PMCID: PMC10726697 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2022.102198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Fungi have a profound impact on human health, leading to billions of infections and millions of deaths worldwide each year. Exacerbating the public health burden is the continued emergence of drug-resistant fungal pathogens coupled with a dearth of treatment options to combat serious infections. Despite this health threat, scientific advances in chemistry, genetics, and biochemistry methodologies have enabled novel antifungal compounds to be discovered. Here, we describe current approaches for the discovery and characterization of novel antifungals, focusing on the identification of novel chemical matter and elucidation of the cellular target of bioactive compounds, followed by a review of the most promising emerging therapies in the antifungal-development pipeline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Leah E Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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34
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Lee YS, Chen X, Widiyanto TW, Orihara K, Shibata H, Kajiwara S. Curcumin affects function of Hsp90 and drug efflux pump of Candida albicans. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:944611. [PMID: 36237434 PMCID: PMC9551236 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.944611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a pathogenic yeast that causes candidiasis in immunocompromised patients. The overuse of antifungal drugs has led to the development of resistance to such drugs by this fungus, which is a major challenge in antifungal chemotherapy. One approach to this problem involves the utilization of new natural products as an alternative source of antifungals. Curcumin, one such natural product, has been widely studied as a drug candidate and is reported to exhibit antifungal activity against C. albicans. Although studies of the mechanism of curcumin against human cancer cells have shown that it inhibits heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90), little is known about its function against C. albicans. In this paper, using a doxycycline-mediated HSP90 strain and an HSP90-overexpressing strain of C. albicans, we demonstrated that the curcumin triggered a decrease in Hsp90 by affecting it at the post-transcriptional level. This also led to the downregulation of HOG1 and CDR1, resulting in a reduction of the stress response and efflux pump activity of C. albicans. However, the inhibition of HSP90 by curcumin was not due to the inhibition of transcription factors HSF1 or AHR1. We also found that curcumin can not only decrease the transcriptional expression of CDR1, but also inhibit the efflux pump activity of Cdr1. Hence, we conclude that disruption of HSP90 by curcumin could impair cell growth, stress responses and efflux pump activity of C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yean Sheng Lee
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Xinyue Chen
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
| | | | - Kanami Orihara
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
| | | | - Susumu Kajiwara
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
- *Correspondence: Susumu Kajiwara,
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35
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3,5-Dinitrobenzoate and 3,5-Dinitrobenzamide Derivatives: Mechanistic, Antifungal, and In Silico Studies. J CHEM-NY 2022. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/2336175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections, including those caused by Candida spp., are recognized in immunocompromised individuals for their high rates of morbidity and mortality. Microorganism resistance to conventional drugs compromises treatment effectiveness and yet also reveals the need to develop new drugs. In many compounds, nitro groups contribute to antimicrobial activity; thus, the inhibitory activity of a collection of twenty esters and amides (derived from 3,5-dinitrobenzoic acid) against Candida spp. was elucidated using microdilution methods to determine the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Fungicide Concentration (MFC), as well as probable mechanisms of action. The structures of the synthesized compounds were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, 1H-NMR, 13C NMR, and HRMS. Of the tested derivatives, ten presented fungicidal activity against at least one of the tested strains. Ethyl 3,5-dinitrobenzoate (2) exhibited the most potent antifungal activity against Candida albicans (MIC = 125 µg/mL; 0.52 mM), Candida krusei (MIC = 100 µg/mL; 4.16 mM), and Candida tropicalis (MIC = 500 µg/ml; 2.08 mM). The structure of the second most potent derivative (propyl 3,5-dinitrobenzoate (3) reveals that esters with short alkyl side chains exhibit better biological activity profiles. Compounds 2 and 3 presented a mechanism of action involving the fungal cell membrane. Though compound 2 modeling against C. albicans revealed a multitarget antifungal mechanism of action, involving various cellular processes, interference in the synthesis of ergosterol was observed. Our results demonstrate that certain ester derivatives containing aromatic ring nitro groups may be useful in the search for new antifungal drugs.
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36
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Robbins N, Cowen LE. Genomic Approaches to Antifungal Drug Target Identification and Validation. Annu Rev Microbiol 2022; 76:369-388. [PMID: 35650665 PMCID: PMC10727914 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-micro-041020-094524] [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] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The last several decades have witnessed a surge in drug-resistant fungal infections that pose a serious threat to human health. While there is a limited arsenal of drugs that can be used to treat systemic infections, scientific advances have provided renewed optimism for the discovery of novel antifungals. The development of chemical-genomic assays using Saccharomyces cerevisiae has provided powerful methods to identify the mechanism of action of molecules in a living cell. Advances in molecular biology techniques have enabled complementary assays to be developed in fungal pathogens, including Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans. These approaches enable the identification of target genes for drug candidates, as well as genes involved in buffering drug target pathways. Here, we examine yeast chemical-genomic assays and highlight how such resources can be utilized to predict the mechanisms of action of compounds, to study virulence attributes of diverse fungal pathogens, and to bolster the antifungal pipeline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada;
| | - Leah E Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada;
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Liu L, Sun Y, Gao Z, Yin W, Jiang H, Wu T, Sun Y, Qin Q, Zhao D, Cheng M. Design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel 3,4-isoxazolediamide derivatives for the combination treatment of azole-resistant candidiasis. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2022; 355:e2200266. [PMID: 36029272 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202200266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections are emerging as serious infectious diseases worldwide. Due to the frequent emergence of resistance, the cure for invasive fungal infections is often unachievable. The molecular chaperone Hsp90 provides a promising target because it supports survival, virulence, and drug resistance in a variety of pathogens. Herein, we report on the structural optimization and structure-activity relationship studies of 3,4-isoxazolediamide analogs. As a new class of fungal Hsp90 inhibitor, compound B25 was found to have good synergistic effects with fluconazole and to avoid potential mammalian toxicity. It also showed remarkable metabolic stability in vitro. Collectively, B25 could be a promising lead compound for drug discovery targeting fungal Hsp90 and deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yixiang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zixuan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wenbo Yin
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tianxiao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yin Sun
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qiaohua Qin
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dongmei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Maosheng Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
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Stachowski TR, Fischer M. Large-Scale Ligand Perturbations of the Protein Conformational Landscape Reveal State-Specific Interaction Hotspots. J Med Chem 2022; 65:13692-13704. [PMID: 35970514 PMCID: PMC9619398 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Protein flexibility is important for ligand binding but
often ignored
in drug design. Considering proteins as ensembles rather than static
snapshots creates opportunities to target dynamic proteins that lack
FDA-approved drugs, such as the human chaperone, heat shock protein
90 (Hsp90). Hsp90α accommodates ligands with a dynamic lid domain,
yet no comprehensive analysis relating lid conformations to ligand
properties is available. To date, ∼300 ligand-bound Hsp90α
crystal structures are deposited in the Protein Data Bank, which enables
us to consider ligand binding as a perturbation of the protein conformational
landscape. By estimating binding site volumes, we classified structures
into distinct major and minor lid conformations. Supported by retrospective
docking, each conformation creates unique hotspots that bind chemically
distinguishable ligands. Clustering revealed insightful exceptions
and the impact of crystal packing. Overall, Hsp90α’s
plasticity provides a cautionary tale of overinterpreting individual
crystal structures and motivates an ensemble-based view of drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R Stachowski
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
| | - Marcus Fischer
- Department of Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States.,Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, United States
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Moghimi S, Shafiei M, Foroumadi A. Drug design strategies for the treatment azole-resistant candidiasis. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2022; 17:879-895. [PMID: 35793245 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2022.2098949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the availability of novel antifungals and therapeutic strategies, the rate of global mortality linked to invasive fungal diseases from fungal infection remains high. Candida albicans account for the most invasive mycosis produced by yeast. Thus, the current arsenal of medicinal chemists is focused on finding new effective agents with lower toxicity and broad-spectrum activity. In this review article, recent efforts to find effective agents against azole-resistant candidiasis, a common fungal infection, are covered. AREAS COVERED Herein, the authors outlined all azole-based compounds, dual target, and new scaffolds (non-azole-based compounds) which were effective against azole-resistant candidiasis. In addition, the mechanism of action and SAR studies were also discussed, if the data were available. EXPERT OPINION The current status of fungal infections and the drawbacks of existing drugs have encouraged scientists to find novel scaffolds based on different methods like virtual screening and fragment-based drug discovery. Machine learning and in-silico methods have found their role in this field and experts are hopeful to find novel scaffolds/compounds by using these methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Setareh Moghimi
- Drug Design and Development Research Center, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Shafiei
- Drug Design and Development Research Center, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Alireza Foroumadi
- Drug Design and Development Research Center, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Jampilek J. Novel avenues for identification of new antifungal drugs and current challenges. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2022; 17:949-968. [PMID: 35787715 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2022.2097659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION : Some of otherwise useful fungi are pathogenic to humans, and unfortunately, the number of these pathogens is increasing. In addition to common skin infections, these opportunistic pathogens are able to cause severe, often incurable, systemic mycoses. AREAS COVERED : The number of antifungal drugs is limited, especially drugs that can be used for systemic administration, and resistance to these drugs is very common. This review summarizes various approaches to the discovery and development of new antifungal drugs, provides an overview of the most important molecules in terms of basic (laboratory) research and compounds currently in clinical trials, and focuses on drug repurposing strategy, while providing an overview of drugs of other indications that have been tested in vitro for their antifungal activity for possible expansion of antifungal drugs and/or support of existing antimycotics. EXPERT OPINION : Despite the limitations of the research of new antifungal drugs by pharmaceutical manufacturers, in addition to innovated molecules based on clinically used drugs, several completely new small entities with unique mechanisms of actions have been identified. The identification of new molecular targets that offer alternatives for the development of new unique selective antifungal highly effective agents has been an important outcome of repurposing of non-antifungal drugs to antifungal drug. Also, given the advances in monoclonal antibodies and their application to immunosuppressed patients, it may seem possible to predict a more optimistic future for antifungal therapy than has been the case in recent decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef Jampilek
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Ilkovicova 6, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia.,Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska Cesta 9, 845 10 Bratislava, Slovakia
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Lee Y, Liston SD, Lee D, Robbins N, Cowen LE. Functional analysis of the Candida albicans kinome reveals Hrr25 as a regulator of antifungal susceptibility. iScience 2022; 25:104432. [PMID: 35663022 PMCID: PMC9160768 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104432] [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: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a leading cause of death due to systemic fungal infections. Poor patient outcomes are attributable to the limited number of antifungal classes and the increasing prevalence of drug resistance. Protein kinases have emerged as rewarding targets in the development of drugs for diverse diseases, yet kinases remain untapped in the quest for new antifungals. Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis of the C. albicans kinome to identify genes for which loss-of-function confers hypersensitivity to the two most widely deployed antifungals, echinocandins and azoles. Through this analysis, we found a role for the casein kinase 1 (CK1) homologue Hrr25 in regulating tolerance to both antifungals as well as target-mediated echinocandin resistance. Follow-up investigations established that Hrr25 regulates these responses through its interaction with the SBF transcription factor. Thus, we provide insights into the circuitry governing cellular responses to antifungals and implicate Hrr25 as a key mediator of drug resistance. Screening Candida albicans kinase mutants reveals 47 regulators of antifungal tolerance Hrr25 is important for growth and cell wall/membrane stress tolerance Hrr25 enables target-mediated echinocandin resistance Hrr25 interacts with the SBF transcription factor complex
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjin Lee
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Sean D Liston
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Dongyeob Lee
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Leah E Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
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42
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Zhen C, Lu H, Jiang Y. Novel Promising Antifungal Target Proteins for Conquering Invasive Fungal Infections. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:911322. [PMID: 35783432 PMCID: PMC9243655 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.911322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) pose a serious clinical problem, but the antifungal arsenal is limited and has many disadvantages, such as drug resistance and toxicity. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop antifungal compounds that target novel target proteins of pathogenic fungi for treating IFIs. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the biological functions of novel promising target proteins for treating IFIs in pathogenic fungi and their inhibitors. Inhibitors of inositol phosphoramide (IPC) synthases (such as Aureobasidin A, Khafrefungin, Galbonolide A, and Pleofungin A) have potent antifungal activities by inhibiting sphingolipid synthesis. Disrupting glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) biosynthesis by Jawsamycin (an inhibitor of Spt14), M720 (an inhibitor of Mcd4), and APX001A (an inhibitor of Gwt1) is a promising strategy for treating IFIs. Turbinmicin is a natural-compound inhibitor of Sec14 and has extraordinary antifungal efficacy, broad-antifungal spectrum, low toxicity, and is a promising new compound for treating IFIs. CMLD013075 targets fungal heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) and has remarkable antifungal efficacy. Olorofim, as an inhibitor of dihydrolactate dehydrogenase, is a breakthrough drug treatment for IFIs. These novel target proteins and their inhibitors may overcome the limitations of currently available antifungal drugs and improve patient outcomes in the treatment of IFIs.
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43
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Pan- and isoform-specific inhibition of Hsp90: Design strategy and recent advances. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 238:114516. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Yin W, Wu T, Liu L, Jiang H, Zhang Y, Cui H, Sun Y, Qin Q, Sun Y, Gao Z, Zhao L, Su X, Zhao D, Cheng M. Species-Selective Targeting of Fungal Hsp90: Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of Novel 4,5-Diarylisoxazole Derivatives for the Combination Treatment of Azole-Resistant Candidiasis. J Med Chem 2022; 65:5539-5564. [PMID: 35298171 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections are emerging as serious infectious diseases worldwide. Because of the development of antifungal drug resistance, the limited efficacy of the existing drugs has led to high mortality in patients. The use of the essential eukaryotic chaperone Hsp90, which plays a multifaceted role in drug resistance across diverse pathogenic fungal species, is considered to be a new strategy to mitigate the resistance and counter the threat posed by drug-resistant fungi. Thus, a series of 4,5-diarylisoxazole analogues as fungal Hsp90 inhibitors were designed and synthesized that had potent synergistic effects with fluconazole in vitro and in vivo. In particular, compound A17 could avoid the potential mammalian toxicity of Hsp90 inhibitors based on key reside differences between humans and fungi. These data support the feasibility of targeting fungal Hsp90 as a promising antifungal strategy and further development of compound A17 as a valuable research probe for the investigation of fungal Hsp90.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Yin
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Tianxiao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Hengxian Cui
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yin Sun
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Qiaohua Qin
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yixiang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Zixuan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Liyu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xin Su
- The School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutical, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Dongmei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Maosheng Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110016, China
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Emerging Antifungal Targets and Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052756. [PMID: 35269898 PMCID: PMC8911111 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite abundant research in the field of antifungal drug discovery, fungal infections remain a significant healthcare burden. There is an emerging need for the development of novel antifungals since those currently available are limited and do not completely provide safe and secure protection. Since the current knowledge regarding the physiology of fungal cells and the infection mechanisms is greater than ever, we have the opportunity to use this for the development of novel generations of antifungals. In this review, we selected and summarized recent studies describing agents employing different antifungal mechanisms. These mechanisms include interference with fungal resistance, including impact on the efflux pumps and heat shock protein 90. Additionally, interference with virulence factors, such as biofilms and hyphae; the impact on fungal enzymes, metabolism, mitochondria, and cell wall; and antifungal vaccines are explored. The agents investigated belong to different classes of natural or synthetic molecules with significant attention given also to plant extracts. The efficacy of these antifungals has been studied mainly in vitro with some in vivo, and clinical studies are needed. Nevertheless, there is a large quantity of products employing novel antifungal mechanisms that can be further explored for the development of new generation of antifungals.
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46
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Iyer KR, Robbins N, Cowen LE. The role of Candida albicans stress response pathways in antifungal tolerance and resistance. iScience 2022; 25:103953. [PMID: 35281744 PMCID: PMC8905312 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.103953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Human fungal pathogens are the causative agents of devastating diseases across the globe, and the increasing prevalence of drug resistance threatens to undermine the already limited treatment options. One prominent pathogen is the opportunistic fungus Candida albicans, which can cause both superficial and serious systemic infections in immunocompromised individuals. C. albicans antifungal drug resistance and antifungal tolerance are supported by diverse and expansive cellular stress response pathways. Some of the major players are the Ca2+-calmodulin-activated phosphatase calcineurin, the protein kinase C cell wall integrity pathway, and the molecular chaperone heat shock protein 90. Beyond these core signal transducers, several other enzymes and transcription factors have been implicated in both tolerance and resistance. Here, we highlight some of the major stress response pathways, key advances in identifying chemical matter to inhibit these pathways, and implications for C. albicans persistence in the host. Candida albicans can cause superficial and serious systemic infections in humans Stress response pathways regulate C. albicans antifungal resistance and tolerance Stress response regulators include calcineurin, Pkc1, Hsp90, and many others Stress response inhibitors could reduce the likelihood of fungi persisting in humans
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Affiliation(s)
- Kali R. Iyer
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, MaRS Centre, West Tower, Room 1638, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Nicole Robbins
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, MaRS Centre, West Tower, Room 1638, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Leah E. Cowen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 661 University Avenue, MaRS Centre, West Tower, Room 1638, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
- Corresponding author
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Yang S, Lyu X, Zhang J, Shui Y, Yang R, Xu X. The Application of Small Molecules to the Control of Typical Species Associated With Oral Infectious Diseases. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:816386. [PMID: 35265531 PMCID: PMC8899129 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.816386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral microbial dysbiosis is the major causative factor for common oral infectious diseases including dental caries and periodontal diseases. Interventions that can lessen the microbial virulence and reconstitute microbial ecology have drawn increasing attention in the development of novel therapeutics for oral diseases. Antimicrobial small molecules are a series of natural or synthetic bioactive compounds that have shown inhibitory effect on oral microbiota associated with oral infectious diseases. Novel small molecules, which can either selectively inhibit keystone microbes that drive dysbiosis of oral microbiota or inhibit the key virulence of the microbial community without necessarily killing the microbes, are promising for the ecological management of oral diseases. Here we discussed the research progress in the development of antimicrobial small molecules and delivery systems, with a particular focus on their antimicrobial activity against typical species associated with oral infectious diseases and the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirui Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoying Lyu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yusen Shui
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ran Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Ran Yang, ; Xin Xu,
| | - Xin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Cariology and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Ran Yang, ; Xin Xu,
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Tang J, Huang X, Cao MH, Wang Z, Yu Z, Yan Y, Huang JP, Wang L, Huang SX. Mono-/Bis-Alkenoic Acid Derivatives From an Endophytic Fungus Scopulariopsis candelabrum and Their Antifungal Activity. Front Chem 2022; 9:812564. [PMID: 35087795 PMCID: PMC8787343 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.812564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
During a screening for antifungal secondary metabolites, six new mono-/bis-alkenoic acid derivatives (2–7) and one known alkenoic acid derivative (1) were isolated from an endophytic fungi Scopulariopsis candelabrum. Their chemical structures were identified by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, 2D NMR, and high-resolution mass spectrometry, as well as comparisons with previously reported literatures. Among them, fusariumesters C‒F (2–5) are bis-alkenoic acid derivatives dimerized by an ester bond, while acetylfusaridioic acid A (6) and fusaridioic acid D (7) are alkenoic acid monomers. All the isolates were submitted to an antifungal assay against Candida albicans and the corn pathogen Exserohilum turcicum using the filter paper agar diffusion method. As a result, only compound 1 decorating with β-lactone ring turned out to be active against these two tested fungi. The broth microdilution assay against Candida albicans showed the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 1 to be 20 μg/ml, while the minimum inhibitory concentration value of the positive control (naystatin) was 10 μg/ml. And the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value (21.23 μg/ml) of 1 against Exserohilum turcicum was determined by analyzing its inhibition effect on the mycelial growth, using cycloheximide (IC50 = 46.70 μg/ml) as the positive control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Synthetic Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xueshuang Huang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Synthetic Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, China
| | - Ming-Hang Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Zhiyan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyin Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Yijun Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Jian-Ping Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Li Wang, ; Sheng-Xiong Huang,
| | - Sheng-Xiong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Synthetic Biology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, China
- *Correspondence: Li Wang, ; Sheng-Xiong Huang,
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Li C, Tu J, Han G, Liu N, Sheng C. Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90)/Histone deacetylase (HDAC) dual inhibitors for the treatment of azoles-resistant Candida albicans. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 227:113961. [PMID: 34742014 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Clinical treatment of candidiasis has suffered from increasingly severe drug resistance and limited efficacy. Thus, novel strategies to deal with drug resistance are highly desired to develop effective therapeutic agents. Herein, dual inhibition of heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) and histone deacetylase (HDAC) was validated as a new strategy to potentiate efficacy of fluconazole against resistant Candida albicans infections. The first generation of Hsp90/HDAC dual inhibitors were designed as synergistic enhancers to treat azoles-resistant candidiasis. In particular, compound J5 exhibited fungal-selective inhibitory effects on Hsp90 and HDACs, leading to low toxicity and excellent in vitro (FICI = 0.266) and in vivo synergistic antifungal potency to treat fluconazole resistant candidiasis. Antifungal-mechanistic investigation revealed that compound J5 suppressed important virulence factors and down-regulated expression of resistance-associated genes. Therefore, Hsp90/HDAC dual inhibitors represent a new strategy for the development of novel antifungal therapeutics to combat azole-resistant candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaochen Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jie Tu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Guiyan Han
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Chunquan Sheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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Murphy SE, Bicanic T. Drug Resistance and Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Invasive Candidiasis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:759408. [PMID: 34970504 PMCID: PMC8713075 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.759408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida species are the leading cause of invasive fungal infections worldwide and are associated with acute mortality rates of ~50%. Mortality rates are further augmented in the context of host immunosuppression and infection with drug-resistant Candida species. In this review, we outline antifungal drugs already in clinical use for invasive candidiasis and candidaemia, their targets and mechanisms of resistance in clinically relevant Candida species, encompassing not only classical resistance, but also heteroresistance and tolerance. We describe novel antifungal agents and targets in pre-clinical and clinical development, including their spectrum of activity, antifungal target, clinical trial data and potential in treatment of drug-resistant Candida. Lastly, we discuss the use of combination therapy between conventional and repurposed agents as a potential strategy to combat the threat of emerging resistance in Candida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Murphy
- Institute of Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tihana Bicanic
- Institute of Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Clinical Academic Group in Infection and Immunity, St. George's University Hospital National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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