1
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Rao G, Peng B, Zhang G, Fu X, Tian J, Tian Y. MicroRNAs in diabetic macroangiopathy. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2024; 23:344. [PMID: 39285459 PMCID: PMC11406791 DOI: 10.1186/s12933-024-02405-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetic macroangiopathy is a leading cause of diabetes-related mortality worldwide. Both genetic and environmental factors, through a multitude of underlying molecular mechanisms, contribute to the pathogenesis of diabetic macroangiopathy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of non-coding RNAs known for their functional diversity and expression specificity, are increasingly recognized for their roles in the initiation and progression of diabetes and diabetic macroangiopathy. In this review, we will describe the biogenesis of miRNAs, and summarize their functions in diabetic macroangiopathy, including atherosclerosis, peripheral artery disease, coronary artery disease, and cerebrovascular disease, which are anticipated to provide new insights into future perspectives of miRNAs in basic, translational and clinical research, ultimately advancing the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diabetic macroangiopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guocheng Rao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Biotherapy, Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Boqiang Peng
- Department of General Surgery and Gastric Cancer Center and Laboratory of Gastric Cancer, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Guixiang Zhang
- Department of General Surgery and Gastric Cancer Center and Laboratory of Gastric Cancer, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Xianghui Fu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Biotherapy, Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Jingyan Tian
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yan Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Biotherapy, Center for Diabetes and Metabolism Research, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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2
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Carvajal JJ, García-Castillo V, Cuellar SV, Campillay-Véliz CP, Salazar-Ardiles C, Avellaneda AM, Muñoz CA, Retamal-Díaz A, Bueno SM, González PA, Kalergis AM, Lay MK. New insights into the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1363572. [PMID: 38911850 PMCID: PMC11190347 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1363572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the respiratory distress condition known as COVID-19. This disease broadly affects several physiological systems, including the gastrointestinal, renal, and central nervous (CNS) systems, significantly influencing the patient's overall quality of life. Additionally, numerous risk factors have been suggested, including gender, body weight, age, metabolic status, renal health, preexisting cardiomyopathies, and inflammatory conditions. Despite advances in understanding the genome and pathophysiological ramifications of COVID-19, its precise origins remain elusive. SARS-CoV-2 interacts with a receptor-binding domain within angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). This receptor is expressed in various organs of different species, including humans, with different abundance. Although COVID-19 has multiorgan manifestations, the main pathologies occur in the lung, including pulmonary fibrosis, respiratory failure, pulmonary embolism, and secondary bacterial pneumonia. In the post-COVID-19 period, different sequelae may occur, which may have various causes, including the direct action of the virus, alteration of the immune response, and metabolic alterations during infection, among others. Recognizing the serious adverse health effects associated with COVID-19, it becomes imperative to comprehensively elucidate and discuss the existing evidence surrounding this viral infection, including those related to the pathophysiological effects of the disease and the subsequent consequences. This review aims to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the impact of COVID-19 and its long-term effects on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonatan J. Carvajal
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Valeria García-Castillo
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Shelsy V. Cuellar
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | | | - Camila Salazar-Ardiles
- Center for Research in Physiology and Altitude Medicine (FIMEDALT), Biomedical Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Andrea M. Avellaneda
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Santo Tomás, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Christian A. Muñoz
- Research Center in Immunology and Biomedical Biotechnology of Antofagasta (CIIBBA), University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Angello Retamal-Díaz
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Research Center in Immunology and Biomedical Biotechnology of Antofagasta (CIIBBA), University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Susan M. Bueno
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pablo A. González
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alexis M. Kalergis
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Departamento de Endocrinología, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Margarita K. Lay
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Research Center in Immunology and Biomedical Biotechnology of Antofagasta (CIIBBA), University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
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3
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Gorb L, Voiteshenko I, Hurmach V, Zarudnaya M, Nyporko A, Shyryna T, Platonov M, Roszak S, Rasulev B. From RNA sequence to its three-dimensional structure: geometrical structure, stability and dynamics of selected fragments of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. NAR Genom Bioinform 2024; 6:lqae062. [PMID: 38835951 PMCID: PMC11148665 DOI: 10.1093/nargab/lqae062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In this computational study, we explore the folding of a particular sequence using various computational tools to produce two-dimensional structures, which are then transformed into three-dimensional structures. We then study the geometry, energetics and dynamics of these structures using full electron quantum-chemical and classical molecular dynamics calculations. Our study focuses on the SARS-CoV-2 RNA fragment GGaGGaGGuguugcaGG and its various structures, including a G-quadruplex and five different hairpins. We examine the impact of two types of counterions (K+ and Na+) and flanking nucleotides on their geometrical characteristics, relative stability and dynamic properties. Our results show that the G-quadruplex structure is the most stable among the constructed hairpins. We confirm its topological stability through molecular dynamics simulations. Furthermore, we observe that the nucleotide loop consisting of seven nucleotides is the most flexible part of the RNA fragment. Additionally, we find that RNA networks of intermolecular hydrogen bonds are highly sensitive to the surrounding environment. Our findings reveal the loss of 79 old hydrogen bonds and the formation of 91 new ones in the case when the G-quadruplex containing flanking nucleotides is additionally stabilized by Na+ counterions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonid Gorb
- Department of Molecular and Quantum Biophysics, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 150, Akademika Zabolotnoho Str., Kyiv 03143, Ukraine
| | - Ivan Voiteshenko
- Department of Molecular and Quantum Biophysics, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 150, Akademika Zabolotnoho Str., Kyiv 03143, Ukraine
- Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, 60 Volodymyrska Street, Kyiv01033, Ukraine
| | - Vasyl Hurmach
- Department of Molecular and Quantum Biophysics, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 150, Akademika Zabolotnoho Str., Kyiv 03143, Ukraine
| | - Margarita Zarudnaya
- Department of Molecular and Quantum Biophysics, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 150, Akademika Zabolotnoho Str., Kyiv 03143, Ukraine
| | - Alex Nyporko
- Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, 60 Volodymyrska Street, Kyiv01033, Ukraine
| | - Tetiana Shyryna
- Department of Molecular and Quantum Biophysics, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 150, Akademika Zabolotnoho Str., Kyiv 03143, Ukraine
| | - Maksym Platonov
- Department of Molecular and Quantum Biophysics, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 150, Akademika Zabolotnoho Str., Kyiv 03143, Ukraine
| | - Szczepan Roszak
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Wrocław, 50-370Wrocław, Poland
| | - Bakhtiyor Rasulev
- Department of Coatings and Polymer Materials, North Dakota State University, NDSU Department 2760, PO Box 6050, Fargo, ND 58108, USA
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Chen Y, Long J, Wu S, Wei Y, Yan F, Li Q, Yan J, Zhang N, Xu W. Disruption of a DNA G-quadruplex causes a gain-of-function SCL45A1 variant relevant to developmental disorders. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2024; 56:709-716. [PMID: 38655615 PMCID: PMC11177108 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2024053] [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: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
SLC45A1 encodes a glucose transporter protein highly expressed in the brain. Mutations in SLC45A1 may lead to neurological diseases and developmental disorders, but its exact role is poorly understood. DNA G-quadruplexes (DNA G4s) are stable structures formed by four guanine bases and play a role in gene regulation and genomic stability. Changes in DNA G4s may affect brain development and function. The mechanism linking alterations in DNA G-quadruplex structures to SLC45A1 pathogenicity remains unknown. In this study, we identify a functional DNA G-quadruplex and its key binding site on SLC45A1 (NM_001080397.3: exon 2: c.449 G>A: p.R150K). This variant results in the upregulation of mRNA and protein expression, which may lead to intellectual developmental disorder with neuropsychiatric features. Mechanistically, the mutation is found to disrupt DNA G-quadruplex structures on SLC45A1, leading to transcriptional enhancement and a gain-of-function mutation, which further causes increased expression and function of the SLC45A1 protein. The identification of the functional DNA G-quadruplex and its effects on DNA G4s may provide new insights into the genetic basis of SLC45A1 pathogenicity and highlight the importance of DNA G4s of SLC45A1 in regulating gene expression and brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi Chen
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineGynaecology and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of EducationWest China Second University HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
- West China School of PharmacySichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Jiang Long
- The Mental Health Centre and the Psychiatric LaboratoryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Sixian Wu
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineGynaecology and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of EducationWest China Second University HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Yazhen Wei
- West China School of PharmacySichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Fei Yan
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineGynaecology and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of EducationWest China Second University HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Qing Li
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineGynaecology and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of EducationWest China Second University HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Jierui Yan
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineGynaecology and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of EducationWest China Second University HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Nannan Zhang
- National Centre for Birth Defect MonitoringKey Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and ChildrenMinistry of EducationWest China Second University HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Wenming Xu
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive MedicineGynaecology and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of EducationWest China Second University HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
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5
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Zhang Y, Chen S, Tian Y, Fu X. Host factors of SARS-CoV-2 in infection, pathogenesis, and long-term effects. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1407261. [PMID: 38846354 PMCID: PMC11155306 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1407261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is the causative virus of the devastating COVID-19 pandemic that results in an unparalleled global health and economic crisis. Despite unprecedented scientific efforts and therapeutic interventions, the fight against COVID-19 continues as the rapid emergence of different SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern and the increasing challenge of long COVID-19, raising a vast demand to understand the pathomechanisms of COVID-19 and its long-term sequelae and develop therapeutic strategies beyond the virus per se. Notably, in addition to the virus itself, the replication cycle of SARS-CoV-2 and clinical severity of COVID-19 is also governed by host factors. In this review, we therefore comprehensively overview the replication cycle and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 from the perspective of host factors and host-virus interactions. We sequentially outline the pathological implications of molecular interactions between host factors and SARS-CoV-2 in multi-organ and multi-system long COVID-19, and summarize current therapeutic strategies and agents targeting host factors for treating these diseases. This knowledge would be key for the identification of new pathophysiological aspects and mechanisms, and the development of actionable therapeutic targets and strategies for tackling COVID-19 and its sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yan Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Medical School, West China Hospital and Cancer Center, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan, Chengdu, China
| | - Xianghui Fu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Medical School, West China Hospital and Cancer Center, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan, Chengdu, China
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6
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Wang RX, Ou Y, Chen Y, Ren TB, Yuan L, Zhang XB. Rational Design of NIR-II G-Quadruplex Fluorescent Probes for Accurate In Vivo Tumor Metastasis Imaging. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:11669-11678. [PMID: 38644738 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c13851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Accurate in vivo imaging of G-quadruplexes (G4) is critical for understanding the emergence and progression of G4-associated diseases like cancer. However, existing in vivo G4 fluorescent probes primarily operate within the near-infrared region (NIR-I), which limits their application accuracy due to the short emission wavelength. The transition to second near-infrared (NIR-II) fluorescent imaging has been of significant interest, as it offers reduced autofluorescence and deeper tissue penetration, thereby facilitating more accurate in vivo imaging. Nonetheless, the advancement of NIR-II G4 probes has been impeded by the absence of effective probe design strategies. Herein, through a "step-by-step" rational design approach, we have successfully developed NIRG-2, the first small-molecule fluorescent probe with NIR-II emission tailored for in vivo G4 detection. Molecular docking calculations reveal that NIRG-2 forms stable hydrogen bonds and strong π-π interactions with G4 structures, which effectively inhibit twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) and, thereby, selectively illuminate G4 structures. Due to its NIR-II emission (940 nm), large Stokes shift (90 nm), and high selectivity, NIRG-2 offers up to 47-fold fluorescence enhancement and a tissue imaging depth of 5 mm for in vivo G4 detection, significantly outperforming existing G4 probes. Utilizing NIRG-2, we have, for the first time, achieved high-contrast visualization of tumor metastasis through lymph nodes and precise tumor resection. Furthermore, NIRG-2 proves to be highly effective and reliable in evaluating surgical and drug treatment efficacy in cancer lymphatic metastasis models. We are optimistic that this study not only provides a crucial molecular tool for an in-depth understanding of G4-related diseases in vivo but also marks a promising strategy for the development of clinical NIR-II G4-activated probes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ren-Xuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Yifeng Ou
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Yushi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
- College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Tian-Bing Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Lin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
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7
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Gong P, Zhang R, Xiao K, Shu H, Li X, Fan H, Sun X. DNA G-Quadruplex in NRP1 Promoter Facilitates SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4422. [PMID: 38674009 PMCID: PMC11050221 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084422] [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: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection continues to raise concerns worldwide. Numerous host factors involved in SARS-CoV-2 infection have been identified, but the regulatory mechanisms of these host factor remain unclear. Here, we report the role of G-quadruplexes (G4s) located in the host factor promoter region in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Using bioinformatics, biochemical, and biological assays, we provide evidence for the presence of G4 structures in the promoter regions of SARS-CoV-2 host factors NRP1. Specifically, we focus on two representative G4s in the NRP1 promoter and highlight its importance in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis. The presence of the G4 structure greatly increases NRP1 expression, facilitating SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells. Utilizing published single-cell RNA sequencing data obtained from simulated SARS-CoV-2 infection in human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs), we found that ciliated cells with high levels of NRP1 are prominently targeted by the virus during infection. Furthermore, our study identifies E2F1 act as a transcription factor that binds to G4s. These findings uncover a previously unknown mechanism underlying SARS-CoV-2 infection and suggest that targeting G4 structures could be a potential strategy for COVID-19 prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pihai Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Rongxin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Ke Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Huiling Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Xinxiu Li
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing 210009, China;
| | - Hong Fan
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing 210009, China;
| | - Xiao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
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8
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Zhao Z, Wang J, Yu H, Wang X. Guide for phenotype-specific profiling of DNA G-quadruplex-regulated genes. STAR Protoc 2024; 5:102820. [PMID: 38198280 PMCID: PMC10820308 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102820] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA G-quadruplex (G4) is a non-canonical four-stranded secondary structure that has been shown to play a role in epigenetic modulation of gene expression. Here, we present a primer on phenotype-specific profiling of DNA G-quadruplex-regulated genes. We provide guidance on in silico exploration of G4-related genes and phenotypes, and in vitro and in vivo validation of the relationship between G4 and phenotype. We describe commonly utilized techniques and detail critical steps involved in determining the phenotype-specific G4-regulated genes for subsequent investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoyang Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, China; Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, China; Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Jianru Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Huichuan Yu
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, China; Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, China; Key Laboratory of Human Microbiome and Chronic Diseases (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, China.
| | - Xiaolin Wang
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, China; Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, China; Key Laboratory of Human Microbiome and Chronic Diseases (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, China.
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9
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Cao R, Tian H, Tian Y, Fu X. A Hierarchical Mechanotransduction System: From Macro to Micro. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2302327. [PMID: 38145330 PMCID: PMC10953595 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Mechanotransduction is a strictly regulated process whereby mechanical stimuli, including mechanical forces and properties, are sensed and translated into biochemical signals. Increasing data demonstrate that mechanotransduction is crucial for regulating macroscopic and microscopic dynamics and functionalities. However, the actions and mechanisms of mechanotransduction across multiple hierarchies, from molecules, subcellular structures, cells, tissues/organs, to the whole-body level, have not been yet comprehensively documented. Herein, the biological roles and operational mechanisms of mechanotransduction from macro to micro are revisited, with a focus on the orchestrations across diverse hierarchies. The implications, applications, and challenges of mechanotransduction in human diseases are also summarized and discussed. Together, this knowledge from a hierarchical perspective has the potential to refresh insights into mechanotransduction regulation and disease pathogenesis and therapy, and ultimately revolutionize the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Cao
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismCenter for Diabetes Metabolism ResearchState Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China Medical SchoolWest China HospitalSichuan University and Collaborative Innovation CenterChengduSichuan610041China
| | - Huimin Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismCenter for Diabetes Metabolism ResearchState Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China Medical SchoolWest China HospitalSichuan University and Collaborative Innovation CenterChengduSichuan610041China
| | - Yan Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismCenter for Diabetes Metabolism ResearchState Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China Medical SchoolWest China HospitalSichuan University and Collaborative Innovation CenterChengduSichuan610041China
| | - Xianghui Fu
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismCenter for Diabetes Metabolism ResearchState Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China Medical SchoolWest China HospitalSichuan University and Collaborative Innovation CenterChengduSichuan610041China
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10
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Geng Y, Liu C, Xu N, Shi X, Suen MC, Zhou B, Yan B, Wu C, Li H, Song Y, Chen X, Wang Z, Cai Q, Zhu G. The N-terminal region of Cdc6 specifically recognizes human DNA G-quadruplex. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 260:129487. [PMID: 38237821 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129487] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Guanine (G)-rich nucleic acid sequences can form diverse G-quadruplex structures located in functionally significant genome regions, exerting regulatory control over essential biological processes, including DNA replication in vivo. During the initiation of DNA replication, Cdc6 is recruited by the origin recognition complex (ORC) to target specific chromosomal DNA sequences. This study reveals that human Cdc6 interacts with G-quadruplex structure through a distinct region within the N-terminal intrinsically disordered region (IDR), encompassing residues 7-20. The binding region assumes a hook-type conformation, as elucidated by the NMR solution structure in complex with htel21T18. Significantly, mutagenesis and in vivo investigations confirm the highly specific nature of Cdc6's recognition of G-quadruplex. This research enhances our understanding of the fundamental mechanism governing the interaction between G-quadruplex and the N-terminal IDR region of Cdc6, shedding light on the intricate regulation of DNA replication processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Geng
- Clinical Research Institute of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Fujian Key Laboratory of Brain Tumors Diagnosis and Precision Treatment, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Brain Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Changdong Liu
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Naining Xu
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Xiao Shi
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Monica Ching Suen
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Bo Zhou
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Bing Yan
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Caiming Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Hui Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease Bioinformation, Department of Genetics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuanjian Song
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease Bioinformation, Department of Genetics, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xueqin Chen
- Clinical Research Institute of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Fujian Key Laboratory of Brain Tumors Diagnosis and Precision Treatment, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Brain Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Zhanxiang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Department of Neuroscience, Fujian Key Laboratory of Brain Tumors Diagnosis and Precision Treatment, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Brain Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Qixu Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
| | - Guang Zhu
- Institute for Advanced Study and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
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11
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De Magis A, Schult P, Schönleber A, Linke R, Ludwig KU, Kümmerer BM, Paeschke K. TMPRSS2 isoform 1 downregulation by G-quadruplex stabilization induces SARS-CoV-2 replication arrest. BMC Biol 2024; 22:5. [PMID: 38185627 PMCID: PMC10773119 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01805-w] [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: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND SARS-CoV-2 infection depends on the host cell factors angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, ACE2, and the transmembrane serinprotease 2, TMPRSS2. Potential inhibitors of these proteins would be ideal targets against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Our data opens the possibility that changes within TMPRSS2 can modulate the outcome during a SARS-CoV-2 infection. RESULTS We reveal that TMPRSS2 acts not only during viral entry but has also an important role during viral replication. In addition to previous functions for TMPRSS2 during viral entry, we determined by specific downregulation of distinct isoforms that only isoform 1 controls and supports viral replication. G-quadruplex (G4) stabilization by chemical compounds impacts TMPRSS2 gene expression. Here we extend and in-depth characterize these observations and identify that a specific G4 in the first exon of the TMPRSS2 isoform 1 is particular targeted by the G4 ligand and affects viral replication. Analysis of potential single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) reveals that a reported SNP at this G4 in isoform 1 destroys the G4 motif and makes TMPRSS2 ineffective towards G4 treatment. CONCLUSION These findings uncover a novel mechanism in which G4 stabilization impacts SARS-CoV-2 replication by changing TMPRSS2 isoform 1 gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio De Magis
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
- Department of Oncology, Haematology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Philipp Schult
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Oncology, Haematology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Antonia Schönleber
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Rebecca Linke
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Oncology, Haematology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Kerstin U Ludwig
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Beate M Kümmerer
- Institute of Virology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Katrin Paeschke
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
- Department of Oncology, Haematology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
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12
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Zareie AR, Dabral P, Verma SC. G-Quadruplexes in the Regulation of Viral Gene Expressions and Their Impacts on Controlling Infection. Pathogens 2024; 13:60. [PMID: 38251367 PMCID: PMC10819198 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13010060] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are noncanonical nucleic acid structures that play significant roles in regulating various biological processes, including replication, transcription, translation, and recombination. Recent studies have identified G4s in the genomes of several viruses, such as herpes viruses, hepatitis viruses, and human coronaviruses. These structures are implicated in regulating viral transcription, replication, and virion production, influencing viral infectivity and pathogenesis. G4-stabilizing ligands, like TMPyP4, PhenDC3, and BRACO19, show potential antiviral properties by targeting and stabilizing G4 structures, inhibiting essential viral life-cycle processes. This review delves into the existing literature on G4's involvement in viral regulation, emphasizing specific G4-stabilizing ligands. While progress has been made in understanding how these ligands regulate viruses, further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms through which G4s impact viral processes. More research is necessary to develop G4-stabilizing ligands as novel antiviral agents. The increasing body of literature underscores the importance of G4s in viral biology and the development of innovative therapeutic strategies against viral infections. Despite some ligands' known regulatory effects on viruses, a deeper comprehension of the multifaceted impact of G4s on viral processes is essential. This review advocates for intensified research to unravel the intricate relationship between G4s and viral processes, paving the way for novel antiviral treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Subhash C. Verma
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, 1664 N Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89557, USA; (A.R.Z.); (P.D.)
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13
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Nguyen LTA, Nguyen TTT, Dang DT. Specific binding of G-quadruplex in SARS-CoV-2 RNA by RHAU peptide. Curr Res Struct Biol 2024; 7:100126. [PMID: 38292819 PMCID: PMC10824680 DOI: 10.1016/j.crstbi.2024.100126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are reported to present on the SARS-CoV-2 RNA genome and control various viral activities. Specific ligands targeting those viral nucleic acid structures could be investigated as promising detection methods or antiviral reagents to suppress this menacing virus. Herein, we demonstrate the binding between a G4 structure in the RNA of SARS-CoV-2 and a fluorescent probe created by fusing a parallel-G4 specific RHAU53 and a cyan fluorescent protein. The specific binding of G4 in SARS-CoV-2 by RHAU peptide was easily detected under the fluorescence spectrometer. The drawbacks of this approach and potential solutions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dung Thanh Dang
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Ho Chi Minh City Open University, HCMC, Viet Nam
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14
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Zou S, Chen S, Rao G, Zhang G, Ma M, Peng B, Du X, Huang W, Lin W, Tian Y, Fu X. Extrachromosomal circular MiR-17-92 amplicon promotes HCC. Hepatology 2024; 79:79-95. [PMID: 37125628 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Extrachromosomal circular DNAs (eccDNAs) are prevalent in cancer genomes and emerge as a class of crucial yet less characterized oncogenic drivers. However, the structure, composition, genome-wide frequency, and contribution of eccDNAs in HCC, one of the most fatal and prevalent cancers, remain unexplored. In this study, we provide a comprehensive characterization of eccDNAs in human HCC and demonstrate an oncogenic role of microRNA (miRNA)-17-92-containing eccDNAs in tumor progression. APPROACH AND RESULTS Using the circle-sequencing method, we identify and characterize more than 230,000 eccDNAs from 4 paired samples of HCC tumor and adjacent nontumor liver tissues. EccDNAs are highly enriched in HCC tumors, preferentially originate from certain chromosomal hotspots, and are correlated with differential gene expression. Particularly, a series of eccDNAs carrying the miRNA-17-92 cluster are validated by outward PCR and Sanger sequencing. Quantitative PCR analyses reveal that miRNA-17-92-containing eccDNAs, along with the expression of their corresponding miRNAs, are elevated in HCC tumors and associated with poor outcomes and the age of HCC patients. More intriguingly, exogenous expression of artificial DNA circles harboring the miR-17-92 cluster, which is synthesized by the ligase-assisted minicircle accumulation method, can significantly accelerate HCC cell proliferation and migration. CONCLUSIONS These findings delineate the genome-wide eccDNAs profiling of HCC and highlight the functional significance of miRNA-containing eccDNAs in tumorigenesis, providing insight into HCC pathogenesis and cancer therapy, as well as eccDNA and miRNA biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sailan Zou
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shihan Chen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Guocheng Rao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Guixiang Zhang
- Department of General Surgery and Gastric Cancer Center, Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Meilin Ma
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Boqiang Peng
- Department of General Surgery and Gastric Cancer Center, Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiao Du
- Department of General Surgery and Gastric Cancer Center, Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of General Surgery, Yaan People's Hospital, Yaan, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Huang
- West China Centre of Excellence for Pancreatitis, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China-Liverpool Biomedical Research Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Weiqiang Lin
- International Institutes of Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yan Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xianghui Fu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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15
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Li T, Luo N, Fu J, Du J, Liu Z, Tan Q, Zheng M, He J, Cheng J, Li D, Fu J. Natural Product Cordycepin (CD) Inhibition for NRP1/CD304 Expression and Possibly SARS-CoV-2 Susceptibility Prevention on Cancers. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2953. [PMID: 38138098 PMCID: PMC10745444 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11122953] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
NRP1/CD304 is a typical membrane-bound co-receptor for the vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF), semaphorin family members, and viral SARS-CoV-2. Cordycepin (CD) is a natural product or active gradient from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) from Cordyceps militaris Link and Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Berk.). However, NRP1 expression regulation via CD in cancers and the potential roles and mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection are not clear. In this study, online databases were analyzed, Western blotting and quantitative RT-PCR were used for NRP1 expression change via CD, molecular docking was used for NRP/CD interaction, and a syncytial formation assay was used for CD inhibition using a pseudovirus SARS-CoV-2 entry. As a result, we revealed that CD inhibits NRP1 expressed in cancer cells and prevents viral syncytial formation in 293T-hACE2 cells, implying the therapeutic potential for both anti-cancer and anti-viruses, including anti-SARS-CoV-2. We further found significant associations between NRP1 expressions and the tumor-immune response in immune lymphocytes, chemokines, receptors, immunostimulators, immune inhibitors, and major histocompatibility complexes in most cancer types, implying NRP1's roles in both anti-cancer and anti-SARS-CoV-2 entry likely via immunotherapy. Importantly, CD also downregulated the expression of NRP1 from lymphocytes in mice and downregulated the expression of A2AR from the lung cancer cell line H1975 when treated with CD, implying the NRP1 mechanism probably through immuno-response pathways. Thus, CD may be a therapeutic component for anti-cancer and anti-viral diseases, including COVID-19, by targeting NRP1 at least.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Na Luo
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Jiewen Fu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Jiaman Du
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Zhiying Liu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Qi Tan
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Meiling Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Jiayue He
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Jingliang Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Dabing Li
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Junjiang Fu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China; (T.L.); (N.L.); (J.F.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (Q.T.); (M.Z.); (J.H.); (J.C.)
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16
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Yan MP, Wee CE, Yen KP, Stevens A, Wai LK. G-quadruplex ligands as therapeutic agents against cancer, neurological disorders and viral infections. Future Med Chem 2023; 15:1987-2009. [PMID: 37933551 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2023-0202] [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] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) within the human genome have undergone extensive molecular investigation, with a strong focus on telomeres, gene promoters and repetitive regulatory sequences. G4s play central roles in regulating essential biological processes, including telomere maintenance, replication, transcription and translation. Targeting these molecular processes with G4-binding ligands holds substantial therapeutic potential in anticancer treatments and has also shown promise in treating neurological, skeletal and muscular disorders. The presence of G4s in bacterial and viral genomes also suggests that G4-binding ligands could be a critical tool in fighting infections. This review provides an overview of the progress and applications of G4-binding ligands, their proposed mechanisms of action, challenges faced and prospects for their utilization in anticancer treatments, neurological disorders and antiviral activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mock Phooi Yan
- Centre for Drug & Herbal Development, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia
| | - Chua Eng Wee
- Centre for Drug & Herbal Development, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia
| | - Khor Poh Yen
- Faculty Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Royal College of Medicine Perak, 3, Jalan Greentown, Ipoh, Perak, 30450, Malaysia
| | - Aaron Stevens
- Department of Pathology & Molecular Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, 6021, New Zealand
| | - Lam Kok Wai
- Centre for Drug & Herbal Development, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur, 50300, Malaysia
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17
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Rao G, Peng X, Tian Y, Fu X, Zhang Y. Circular RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma: biogenesis, function, and pathology. Front Genet 2023; 14:1106665. [PMID: 37485335 PMCID: PMC10361733 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1106665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Both genetic and environmental factors through a multitude of underlying molecular mechanisms participate in the pathogenesis of HCC. Recently, numerous studies have shown that circular RNAs (circRNAs), an emerging class of non-coding RNAs characterized by the presence of covalent bonds linking 3' and 5' ends, play an important role in the initiation and progression of cancers, including HCC. In this review, we outline the current status of the field of circRNAs, with an emphasis on the functions and mechanisms of circRNAs in HCC and its microenvironment. We also summarize and discuss recent advances of circRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. These efforts are anticipated to throw new insights into future perspectives about circRNAs in basic, translational and clinical research, eventually advancing the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guocheng Rao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Cancer Center West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xi Peng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Cancer Center West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yan Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Cancer Center West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xianghui Fu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Cancer Center West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuwei Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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18
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Qin B, Li Z, Tang K, Wang T, Xie Y, Aumonier S, Wang M, Yuan S, Cui S. Identification of the SARS-unique domain of SARS-CoV-2 as an antiviral target. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3999. [PMID: 37414753 PMCID: PMC10326071 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39709-6] [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: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 nsp3 is essential for viral replication and host responses. The SARS-unique domain (SUD) of nsp3 exerts its function through binding to viral and host proteins and RNAs. Herein, we show that SARS-CoV-2 SUD is highly flexible in solution. The intramolecular disulfide bond of SARS-CoV SUD is absent in SARS-CoV-2 SUD. Incorporating this bond in SARS-CoV-2 SUD allowed crystal structure determination to 1.35 Å resolution. However, introducing this bond in SARS-CoV-2 genome was lethal for the virus. Using biolayer interferometry, we screened compounds directly binding to SARS-CoV-2 SUD and identified theaflavin 3,3'-digallate (TF3) as a potent binder, Kd 2.8 µM. TF3 disrupted the SUD-guanine quadruplex interactions and exhibited anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity in Vero E6-TMPRSS2 cells with an EC50 of 5.9 µM and CC50 of 98.5 µM. In this work, we provide evidence that SARS-CoV-2 SUD harbors druggable sites for antiviral development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Qin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Pathogen Infection Prevention and Control (Peking Union Medical College), Ministry of Education, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Ziheng Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Pathogen Infection Prevention and Control (Peking Union Medical College), Ministry of Education, 100730, Beijing, China
| | - Kaiming Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tongyun Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yubin Xie
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sylvain Aumonier
- Swiss Light Source at the Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232, Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Meitian Wang
- Swiss Light Source at the Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232, Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Shuofeng Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Sheng Cui
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Pathogen Infection Prevention and Control (Peking Union Medical College), Ministry of Education, 100730, Beijing, China.
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19
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Razzaq M, Han JH, Ravichandran S, Kim J, Bae JY, Park MS, Kannappan S, Chung WC, Ahn JH, Song MJ, Kim KK. Stabilization of RNA G-quadruplexes in the SARS-CoV-2 genome inhibits viral infection via translational suppression. Arch Pharm Res 2023; 46:598-615. [PMID: 37563335 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-023-01458-x] [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: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
The G-quadruplex (G4) formed in single-stranded DNAs or RNAs plays a key role in diverse biological processes and is considered as a potential antiviral target. In the genome of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), 25 putative G4-forming sequences are predicted; however, the effects of G4-binding ligands on SARS-CoV-2 replication have not been studied in the context of viral infection. In this study, we investigated whether G4-ligands suppressed SARS-CoV-2 replication and whether their antiviral activity involved stabilization of viral RNA G4s and suppression of viral gene expression. We found that pyridostatin (PDS) suppressed viral gene expression and genome replication as effectively as the RNA polymerase inhibitor remdesivir. Biophysical analyses revealed that the 25 predicted G4s in the SARS-CoV-2 genome formed a parallel G4 structure. In particular, G4-644 and G4-3467 located in the 5' region of ORF1a, formed a G4 structure that could be effectively stabilized by PDS. We also showed that PDS significantly suppressed translation of the reporter genes containing these G4s. Taken together, our results demonstrate that stabilization of RNA G4s by PDS in the SARS-CoV-2 genome inhibits viral infection via translational suppression, highlighting the therapeutic potential of G4-ligands in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Razzaq
- Department of Precision Medicine, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Institute for Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Ho Han
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Subramaniyam Ravichandran
- Department of Precision Medicine, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Institute for Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States of America
| | - Jaehyun Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon-Yong Bae
- Department of Microbiology, Institute for Viral Diseases, Biosafety Center, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Man-Seong Park
- Department of Microbiology, Institute for Viral Diseases, Biosafety Center, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Shrute Kannappan
- Department of Precision Medicine, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Institute for Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo-Chang Chung
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Hyun Ahn
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
| | - Moon Jung Song
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kyeong Kyu Kim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Institute for Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
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20
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Le TT, Benton DJ, Wrobel AG, Gamblin SJ. Development of high affinity broadly reactive aptamers for spike protein of multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants. RSC Adv 2023; 13:15322-15326. [PMID: 37213341 PMCID: PMC10197177 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra01382k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
We have developed broadly reactive aptamers against multiple variants by alternating the target between spike proteins from different SARS-CoV-2 variants during the selection process. In this process we have developed aptamers which can recognise all variants, from the original wild-type 'Wuhan' strain to Omicron, with high affinity (Kd values in the pM range).
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Affiliation(s)
- Thao T Le
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London UK
| | - Donald J Benton
- Structural Biology of Disease Processes Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute UK
| | - Antoni G Wrobel
- Structural Biology of Disease Processes Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute UK
| | - Steven J Gamblin
- Structural Biology of Disease Processes Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute UK
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21
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Roy SS, Sharma S, Rizvi ZA, Sinha D, Gupta D, Rophina M, Sehgal P, Sadhu S, Tripathy MR, Samal S, Maiti S, Scaria V, Sivasubbu S, Awasthi A, Harshan KH, Jain S, Chowdhury S. G4-binding drugs, chlorpromazine and prochlorperazine, repurposed against COVID-19 infection in hamsters. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1133123. [PMID: 37006620 PMCID: PMC10061221 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1133123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has caused millions of infections and deaths worldwide. Limited treatment options and the threat from emerging variants underline the need for novel and widely accessible therapeutics. G-quadruplexes (G4s) are nucleic acid secondary structures known to affect many cellular processes including viral replication and transcription. We identified heretofore not reported G4s with remarkably low mutation frequency across >5 million SARS-CoV-2 genomes. The G4 structure was targeted using FDA-approved drugs that can bind G4s - Chlorpromazine (CPZ) and Prochlorperazine (PCZ). We found significant inhibition in lung pathology and lung viral load of SARS-CoV-2 challenged hamsters when treated with CPZ or PCZ that was comparable to the widely used antiviral drug Remdesivir. In support, in vitro G4 binding, inhibition of reverse transcription from RNA isolated from COVID-infected humans, and attenuated viral replication and infectivity in Vero cell cultures were clear in case of both CPZ and PCZ. Apart from the wide accessibility of CPZ/PCZ, targeting relatively invariant nucleic acid structures poses an attractive strategy against viruses like SARS-CoV-2, which spread fast and accumulate mutations quickly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuvra Shekhar Roy
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Shalu Sharma
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Zaigham Abbas Rizvi
- Immuno-biology Laboratory, Infection and Immunology Centre, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Dipanjali Sinha
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Divya Gupta
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, 500007, India
| | - Mercy Rophina
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Paras Sehgal
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Srikanth Sadhu
- Immuno-biology Laboratory, Infection and Immunology Centre, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Manas Ranjan Tripathy
- Immuno-biology Laboratory, Infection and Immunology Centre, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Sweety Samal
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, 411008, India
| | - Souvik Maiti
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
- CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, 121001, India
| | - Vinod Scaria
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Sridhar Sivasubbu
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Amit Awasthi
- Immuno-biology Laboratory, Infection and Immunology Centre, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, 121001, India
| | - Krishnan H. Harshan
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, 500007, India
| | - Sanjeev Jain
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, 560029, India
| | - Shantanu Chowdhury
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
- *Correspondence: Shantanu Chowdhury,
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22
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Li Y, Zhu Y, Wang Y, Feng Y, Li D, Li S, Qin P, Yang X, Chen L, Zhao J, Zhang C, Li Y. Characterization of RNA G-quadruplexes in porcine epidemic diarrhea virus genome and the antiviral activity of G-quadruplex ligands. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 231:123282. [PMID: 36657537 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), an enteropathogenic coronavirus, has catastrophic impacts on the global pig industry. However, there are still no anti-PEDV drugs with accurate targets. G-quadruplexes (G4s) are non-canonical secondary structures formed within guanine-rich regions of DNA or RNA, and have attracted great attention as potential targets for antiviral strategy. In this study, we reported two putative G4-forming sequences (PQS) in S and Nsp5 genes of PEDV genome based on bioinformatic analysis, and identified that S-PQS and Nsp5-PQS were enabled to fold into G4 structure by using circular dichroism spectroscopy and fluorescence turn-on assay. Furthermore, we verified that both S-PQS and Nsp5-PQS PQS could form G4 structure in live cells by immunofluorescence microscopy. In addition, G4-specific compounds, such as TMPyP4 and PDS, could significantly inhibit transcription, translation and proliferation of PEDV in vitro. Importantly, these compounds exert antiviral activity at the post-entry step of PEDV infection cycle, by inhibiting viral genome replication and protein expression. Lastly, we demonstrated that TMPyP4 can inhibit reporter gene expression by targeting G4 structure in Nsp5. Taken together, these findings not only reinforce the presence of viral G-quadruplex sequences in PEDV genome but also provide new insights into developing novel antiviral drugs targeting PEDV RNA G-quadruplexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqin Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Yance Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Yue Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Yi Feng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Dongliang Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Shuai Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Panpan Qin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Xia Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Lu Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Jun Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China.
| | - Yongtao Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China.
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23
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Moscato D, Gabas F, Conte R, Ceotto M. Vibrational spectroscopy simulation of solvation effects on a G-quadruplex. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:14248-14258. [PMID: 36856120 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2180435] [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: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
It is commonly believed that solvation effects on the vibrational properties of a solute are easily accounted for by simple rules of thumbs, that is, solvating a polar molecule in a polar medium has the only effect of red shifting all its spectroscopical features and, similarly, solvating a polar molecule in a nonpolar medium has the opposite effect. In this work, we use theoretical vibrational spectroscopy at quasi-classical and quantum approximate semiclassical level to gain atomistic insights about solvent-solute interactions for 2'-deoxyguanosine and the G-quadruplex. We employ the quasi-classical trajectory method to include full anharmonicity into our calculated spectra, and then introduce quantum nuclear effects by means of divide-and-conquer semiclassical spectroscopy calculations. Solvation is treated explicitly leading to a good reproducibility of the available experimental data and reliable predictions when an experimental reference is missing.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Moscato
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabio Gabas
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Riccardo Conte
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Michele Ceotto
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
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24
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Du J, Fu J, Zhang W, Zhang L, Chen H, Cheng J, He T, Fu J. Effect of DPP4/CD26 expression on SARS‑CoV‑2 susceptibility, immune response, adenosine (derivatives m 62A and CD) regulations on patients with cancer and healthy individuals. Int J Oncol 2023; 62:41. [PMID: 36799191 PMCID: PMC9946808 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2023.5489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The worldwide COVID‑19 pandemic was brought on by a new coronavirus (SARS Cov‑2). A marker/receptor called Dipeptidyl peptidase 4/CD26(DPP4/CD26) may be crucial in determining susceptibility to tumors and coronaviruses. However, the regulation of DPP4 in COVID‑invaded cancer patients and its role on small molecule compounds remain unclear. The present study used the Human Protein Atlas, Monaco, and Schmiedel databases to analyze the expression of DPP4 in human tissues and immune cells. The association between DPP4 expression and survival in various tumor tissues was compared using GEPIA 2. The DNMIVD database was used to analyze the correlation between DPP4 expression and promoter methylation in various tumors. On the cBioPortal network, the frequency of DPP4 DNA mutations in various cancers was analyzed. The correlation between DPP4 expression and immunomodulators was analyzed by TISIDB database. The inhibitory effects of cordycepin (CD), N6, N6‑dimethyladenosine (m62A) and adenosine (AD) on DPP4 in cancer cells were evaluated. DPP4 was mainly expressed in endocrine tissue, followed by gastrointestinal tract, female tissue (mainly in placenta), male tissue (mainly in prostate and seminal vesicle), proximal digestive tract, kidney, bladder, liver, gallbladder and respiratory system. In immune cells, DPP4 mRNA was mainly expressed in T cells, and its expression was upregulated in esophageal carcinoma, kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma (KIRP), liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC), lung adenocarcinoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, prostate adenocarcinoma, stomach adenocarcinoma, thyroid carcinoma and thymoma. However, it was downregulated in breast invasive carcinoma, kidney chromophobe, lung squamous cell carcinoma and skin cutaneous melanoma. Thus, DPP4 is involved in viral invasion in most types of cancer. The expression of DPP4 could be inhibited by CD, m62A and AD in different tumor cells. Moreover, CD significantly inhibited the formation of GFP‑positive syncytial cells. In vivo experiments with AD injection further showed that AD significantly inhibited lymphocyte activating factor 3 expression. These drugs may have potential to treat COVID‑19 by targeting DPP4. Thus, DPP4 may be medically significant for SARS‑CoV‑2‑infected cancer patients, providing prospective novel targets and concepts for the creation of drugs against COVID‑19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaman Du
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Jiewen Fu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Wenqian Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Lianmei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China,Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an, Jiangsu 223300, P.R. China
| | - Hanchun Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, P.R. China
| | - Jingliang Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Tao He
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China,Institute for Cancer Medicine and Basic Medical School, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China,Correspondence to: Professor Junjiang Fu or Professor Tao He, Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, 3-319 Zhongshan Road, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China, E-mail: , E-mail:
| | - Junjiang Fu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China,Correspondence to: Professor Junjiang Fu or Professor Tao He, Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, 3-319 Zhongshan Road, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China, E-mail: , E-mail:
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25
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Targeting RNA G-quadruplex with repurposed drugs blocks SARS-CoV-2 entry. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011131. [PMID: 36701392 PMCID: PMC9904497 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, the complexity of infection, and the functional redundancy of host factors, underscore an urgent need for broad-spectrum antivirals against the continuous COVID-19 pandemic, with drug repurposing as a viable therapeutic strategy. Here we report the potential of RNA G-quadruplex (RG4)-targeting therapeutic strategy for SARS-CoV-2 entry. Combining bioinformatics, biochemical and biophysical approaches, we characterize the existence of RG4s in several SARS-CoV-2 host factors. In silico screening followed by experimental validation identify Topotecan (TPT) and Berbamine (BBM), two clinical approved drugs, as RG4-stabilizing agents with repurposing potential for COVID-19. Both TPT and BBM can reduce the protein level of RG4-containing host factors, including ACE2, AXL, FURIN, and TMPRSS2. Intriguingly, TPT and BBM block SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus entry into target cells in vitro and murine tissues in vivo. These findings emphasize the significance of RG4 in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and provide a potential broad-spectrum antiviral strategy for COVID-19 prevention and treatment.
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26
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Genomic Analysis of Non-B Nucleic Acids Structures in SARS-CoV-2: Potential Key Roles for These Structures in Mutability, Translation, and Replication? Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14010157. [PMID: 36672896 PMCID: PMC9859294 DOI: 10.3390/genes14010157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-B nucleic acids structures have arisen as key contributors to genetic variation in SARS-CoV-2. Herein, we investigated the presence of defining spike protein mutations falling within inverted repeats (IRs) for 18 SARS-CoV-2 variants, discussed the potential roles of G-quadruplexes (G4s) in SARS-CoV-2 biology, and identified potential pseudoknots within the SARS-CoV-2 genome. Surprisingly, there was a large variation in the number of defining spike protein mutations arising within IRs between variants and these were more likely to occur in the stem region of the predicted hairpin stem-loop secondary structure. Notably, mutations implicated in ACE2 binding and propagation (e.g., ΔH69/V70, N501Y, and D614G) were likely to occur within IRs, whilst mutations involved in antibody neutralization and reduced vaccine efficacy (e.g., T19R, ΔE156, ΔF157, R158G, and G446S) were rarely found within IRs. We also predicted that RNA pseudoknots could predominantly be found within, or next to, 29 mutations found in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Finally, the Omicron variants BA.2, BA.4, BA.5, BA.2.12.1, and BA.2.75 appear to have lost two of the predicted G4-forming sequences found in other variants. These were found in nsp2 and the sequence complementary to the conserved stem-loop II-like motif (S2M) in the 3' untranslated region (UTR). Taken together, non-B nucleic acids structures likely play an integral role in SARS-CoV-2 evolution and genetic diversity.
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27
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Ruggiero E, Richter SN. Targeting G-quadruplexes to achieve antiviral activity. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2023; 79:129085. [PMID: 36423824 PMCID: PMC9760570 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2022.129085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
With the emergence of new viruses in the human population and the fast mutation rates of existing viruses, new antiviral targets and compounds are needed. Most existing antiviral drugs are active against proteins of a handful of viruses. Most of these proteins in the end affect viral nucleic acid processing, but direct nucleic acid targeting is less represented due to the difficulty of selectively acting at the nucleic acid of interest. Recently, nucleic acids have been shown to fold in structures alternative to the classic double helix and Watson and Crick base-pairing. Among these non-canonical structures, G-quadruplexes (G4s) have attracted interest because of their key biological roles that are being discovered. Molecules able to selectively target G4s have been developed and since G4s have been investigated as targets in several human pathologies, including viral infections. Here, after briefly introducing viruses, G4s and the G4-binding molecules with antiviral properties, we comment on the mechanisms at the base of the antiviral activity reported for G4-binding molecules. Understanding how G4-ligands act in infected cells will possibly help designing and developing next-generation antiviral drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara N Richter
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Italy; Microbiology and Virology Unit, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy.
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28
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Enzymatic approaches against SARS-CoV-2 infection with an emphasis on the telomere-associated enzymes. Biotechnol Lett 2023; 45:333-345. [PMID: 36707451 PMCID: PMC9883136 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-023-03352-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The pandemic phase of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) appears to be over in most countries. However, the unexpected behaviour and unstable nature of coronaviruses, including temporary hiatuses, re-emergence, emergence of new variants, and changing outbreak epicentres during the COVID-19 pandemic, have been frequently reported. The mentioned trend shows the fact that in addition to vaccine development, different strategies should be considered to deal effectively with this disease, in long term. In this regard, the role of enzymes in regulating immune responses to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has recently attracted much attention. Moreover, several reports confirm the association of short telomeres with sever COVID-19 symptoms. This review highlights the role of several enzymes involved in telomere length (TL) regulation and explains their relevance to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Apparently, inhibition of telomere shortening (TS) through inhibition and/or activation of these enzymes could be a potential target in the treatment of COVID-19, which may also lead to a reduction in disease severity.
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29
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Qin G, Zhao C, Yang J, Wang Z, Ren J, Qu X. Unlocking G-Quadruplexes as Targets and Tools against COVID-19. CHINESE J CHEM 2022; 41:CJOC202200486. [PMID: 36711116 PMCID: PMC9874442 DOI: 10.1002/cjoc.202200486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The applicability of G-quadruplexes (G4s) as antiviral targets, therapeutic agents and diagnostic tools for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is currently being evaluated, which has drawn the extensive attention of the scientific community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, research in this field is rapidly accumulating. In this review, we summarize the latest achievements and breakthroughs in the use of G4s as antiviral targets, therapeutic agents and diagnostic tools for COVID-19, particularly using G4 ligands. Finally, strength and weakness regarding G4s in anti-SARS-CoV-2 field are highlighted for prospective future projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geng Qin
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource UtilizationChangchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of ScienceChangchun, Jilin130022China
- University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026China
| | - Chuanqi Zhao
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource UtilizationChangchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of ScienceChangchun, Jilin130022China
- University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026China
| | - Jie Yang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource UtilizationChangchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of ScienceChangchun, Jilin130022China
- University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource UtilizationChangchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of ScienceChangchun, Jilin130022China
- University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026China
| | - Jinsong Ren
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource UtilizationChangchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of ScienceChangchun, Jilin130022China
- University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026China
| | - Xiaogang Qu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource UtilizationChangchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of ScienceChangchun, Jilin130022China
- University of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026China
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30
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Zhai LY, Su AM, Liu JF, Zhao JJ, Xi XG, Hou XM. Recent advances in applying G-quadruplex for SARS-CoV-2 targeting and diagnosis: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 221:1476-1490. [PMID: 36130641 PMCID: PMC9482720 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.09.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
The coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has caused a health care crisis all over the world since the end of 2019. Although vaccines and neutralizing antibodies have been developed, rapidly emerging variants usually display stronger immune escape ability and can better surpass vaccine protection. Therefore, it is still vital to find proper treatment strategies. To date, antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2 have mainly focused on proteases or polymerases. Notably, noncanonical nucleic acid structures called G-quadruplexes (G4s) have been identified in many viruses in recent years, and numerous G4 ligands have been developed. During this pandemic, literature on SARS-CoV-2 G4s is rapidly accumulating. Here, we first summarize the recent progress in the identification of SARS-CoV-2 G4s and their intervention by ligands. We then introduce the potential interacting proteins of SARS-CoV-2 G4s from both the virus and the host that may regulate G4 functions. The innovative strategy to use G4s as a diagnostic tool in SARS-CoV-2 detection is also reviewed. Finally, we discuss some key questions to be addressed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Yan Zhai
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Ai-Min Su
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Jing-Fan Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Jian-Jin Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Xu-Guang Xi
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; ENS Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS UMR8113, IDA FR3242, Laboratory of Biology and Applied Pharmacology (LBPA), 91190 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Xi-Miao Hou
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.
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31
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Kabbara A, Vialet B, Marquevielle J, Bonnafous P, Mackereth CD, Amrane S. RNA G-quadruplex forming regions from SARS-2, SARS-1 and MERS coronoviruses. Front Chem 2022; 10:1014663. [PMID: 36479439 PMCID: PMC9719988 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.1014663] [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: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 (Corona Virus Disease 2019), SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) are infectious diseases each caused by coronavirus outbreaks. Small molecules and other therapeutics are rapidly being developed to treat these diseases, but the threat of new variants and outbreaks argue for the identification of additional viral targets. Here we identify regions in each of the three coronavirus genomes that are able to form G-quadruplex (G4) structures. G4s are structures formed by DNA or RNA with a core of two or more stacked planes of guanosine tetrads. In recent years, numerous DNA and RNA G4s have emerged as promising pharmacological targets for the treatment of cancer and viral infection. We use a combination of bioinformatics and biophysical approaches to identify conserved RNA G4 regions from the ORF1A and S sequences of SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV. Although a general depletion of G4-forming regions is observed in coronaviridae, the preservation of these selected G4 sequences support a significance in viral replication. Targeting these RNA structures may represent a new antiviral strategy against these viruses distinct from current approaches that target viral proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Samir Amrane
- Université de Bordeaux, INSERM U1212, CNRS UMR 5320, ARNA Laboratory, IECB, Bordeaux, France
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32
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Li X, Dai X, Pan Y, Sun Y, Yang B, Chen K, Wang Y, Xu JF, Dong Y, Yang YR, Yan LT, Liu D. Studies on the Synergistic Effect of Tandem Semi-Stable Complementary Domains on Sequence-Defined DNA Block Copolymers. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:21267-21277. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c08930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Rare Earth Materials (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xiaobin Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yufan Pan
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Rare Earth Materials (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yawei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, College of Chemical Engineering, China University of Petroleum (Huadong), Qingdao 258000, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Rare Earth Materials (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Kun Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China
| | - You Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Rare Earth Materials (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Jiang-Fei Xu
- Key Lab of Organic Optoelectronics & Molecular Engineering, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yuanchen Dong
- CAS Key Laboratory of Colloid Interface and Chemical Thermodynamics, Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P.R. China
| | - Yuhe Renee Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Li-Tang Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Dongsheng Liu
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Rare Earth Materials (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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Falanga AP, Terracciano M, Oliviero G, Roviello GN, Borbone N. Exploring the Relationship between G-Quadruplex Nucleic Acids and Plants: From Plant G-Quadruplex Function to Phytochemical G4 Ligands with Pharmaceutic Potential. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2377. [PMID: 36365194 PMCID: PMC9698481 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplex (G4) oligonucleotides are higher-order DNA and RNA secondary structures of enormous relevance due to their implication in several biological processes and pathological states in different organisms. Strategies aiming at modulating human G4 structures and their interrelated functions are first-line approaches in modern research aiming at finding new potential anticancer treatments or G4-based aptamers for various biomedical and biotechnological applications. Plants offer a cornucopia of phytocompounds that, in many cases, are effective in binding and modulating the thermal stability of G4s and, on the other hand, contain almost unexplored G4 motifs in their genome that could inspire new biotechnological strategies. Herein, we describe some G4 structures found in plants, summarizing the existing knowledge of their functions and biological role. Moreover, we review some of the most promising G4 ligands isolated from vegetal sources and report on the known relationships between such phytochemicals and G4-mediated biological processes that make them potential leads in the pharmaceutical sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea P. Falanga
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Monica Terracciano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giorgia Oliviero
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni N. Roviello
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, Italian National Council for Research (IBB-CNR), Area di Ricerca site and Headquarters, Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Borbone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems, Italian National Council of Research (ISASI-CNR), Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Napoli, Italy
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Gupta P, Khadake RM, Panja S, Shinde K, Rode AB. Alternative RNA Conformations: Companion or Combatant. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:1930. [PMID: 36360167 PMCID: PMC9689429 DOI: 10.3390/genes13111930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA molecules, in one form or another, are involved in almost all aspects of cell physiology, as well as in disease development. The diversity of the functional roles of RNA comes from its intrinsic ability to adopt complex secondary and tertiary structures, rivaling the diversity of proteins. The RNA molecules form dynamic ensembles of many interconverting conformations at a timescale of seconds, which is a key for understanding how they execute their cellular functions. Given the crucial role of RNAs in various cellular processes, we need to understand the RNA molecules from a structural perspective. Central to this review are studies aimed at revealing the regulatory role of conformational equilibria in RNA in humans to understand genetic diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as in pathogens such as bacteria and viruses so as to understand the progression of infectious diseases. Furthermore, we also summarize the prior studies on the use of RNA structures as platforms for the rational design of small molecules for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ambadas B. Rode
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad—Gurugram Expressway, Faridabad 121001, India
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Vesuna F, Akhrymuk I, Smith A, Winnard PT, Lin SC, Panny L, Scharpf R, Kehn-Hall K, Raman V. RK-33, a small molecule inhibitor of host RNA helicase DDX3, suppresses multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:959577. [PMID: 36090095 PMCID: PMC9453862 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.959577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, continues to spread globally even as vaccine strategies are proving effective in preventing hospitalizations and deaths. However, evolving variants of the virus appear to be more transmissive and vaccine efficacy toward them is waning. As a result, SARS-CoV-2 will continue to have a deadly impact on public health into the foreseeable future. One strategy to bypass the continuing problem of newer variants is to target host proteins required for viral replication. We have used this host-targeted antiviral (HTA) strategy that targets DDX3X (DDX3), a host DEAD-box RNA helicase that is usurped by SARS-CoV-2 for virus production. We demonstrated that targeting DDX3 with RK-33, a small molecule inhibitor, reduced the viral load in four isolates of SARS-CoV-2 (Lineage A, and Lineage B Alpha, Beta, and Delta variants) by one to three log orders in Calu-3 cells. Furthermore, proteomics and RNA-seq analyses indicated that most SARS-CoV-2 genes were downregulated by RK-33 treatment. Also, we show that the use of RK-33 decreases TMPRSS2 expression, which may be due to DDX3s ability to unwind G-quadraplex structures present in the TMPRSS2 promoter. The data presented support the use of RK-33 as an HTA strategy to control SARS-CoV-2 infection, irrespective of its mutational status, in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhad Vesuna
- Division of Cancer Imaging Research, Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ivan Akhrymuk
- Department of Biomedical Science and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Amy Smith
- Department of Biomedical Science and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Paul T Winnard
- Division of Cancer Imaging Research, Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Shih-Chao Lin
- Bachelor Degree Program in Marine Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Lauren Panny
- Department of Biomedical Science and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Robert Scharpf
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kylene Kehn-Hall
- Department of Biomedical Science and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
- Center for Zoonotic and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Venu Raman
- Division of Cancer Imaging Research, Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Departments of Oncology, Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
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36
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Chang T, Li G, Ding Z, Li W, Zhu P, Lei W, Shangguan D. Potential G-quadruplexes within the Promoter Nuclease Hypersensitive Sites of the Heat-responsive Genes in Rice. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202200405. [PMID: 36006168 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200405] [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: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) have been shown to be involved in the regulation of multiple cellular processes. Exploring putative G4-forming sequences (PQSs) in heat-responsive genes of rice and their folding structures under different conditions will help to understand the mechanism in response to heat stress. In this work, we discovered a prevalence of PQSs in nuclease hypersensitive sites within the promoters of heat-responsive genes. Moreover, 50% of the searched G3 PQSs ((G3+L1-7)3+G3+) locate in heat shock transcription factors. Circular dichroism spectroscopy, thermal difference spectroscopy, and UV melting analysis demonstrated the representative PQSs could adopt stable G4s at physiological temperature and potassium concentration. These PQSs were able to stall Klenow Fragment (KF) DNA polymerase by the formation of G4s. However, the G4s with Tm values around 50 - 60 oC could be increasingly unwound by KF with the increase of temperatures from 25 to 50 oC, implying these G4s could sense the changes in temperature by structural switch. This work offers fresh clue to understand the potential of G4-involved functions of PQSs and the molecular events in plants in the response to heat stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianjun Chang
- Henan Polytechnic University, Institute of Enveiroment and Resoures, 2001 Shiji Avenue, 454003, Jiaozuo, CHINA
| | - Guangping Li
- Henan Polytechnic University, Institute of Resources and Environment, CHINA
| | - Zhan Ding
- Henan Polytechnic University, Institute of Resources and Environment, CHINA
| | - Weiguo Li
- Henan Polytechnic University, Institute of Resources and Environment, CHINA
| | - Panpan Zhu
- Henan Polytechnic University, Institute of Resources and Environment, CHINA
| | - Wei Lei
- Henan Polytechnic University, Institute of Resources and Environment, CHINA
| | - Dihua Shangguan
- Institute of Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Labor-atory of Analytical Chemistry for Living Biosystems, CAS Re-search/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, CHINA
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37
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Wang Z, Wang N, Yang L, Song XQ. Bioactive natural products in COVID-19 therapy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:926507. [PMID: 36059994 PMCID: PMC9438897 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.926507] [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: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The devastating COVID-19 pandemic has caused more than six million deaths worldwide during the last 2 years. Effective therapeutic agents are greatly needed, yet promising magic bullets still do not exist. Numerous natural products (cordycepin, gallinamide A, plitidepsin, telocinobufagin, and tylophorine) have been widely studied and play a potential function in treating COVID-19. In this paper, we reviewed published studies (from May 2021 to April 2022) relating closely to bioactive natural products (isolated from medicinal plants, animals products, and marine organisms) in COVID-19 therapy in vitro to provide some essential guidance for anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonglei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Green Natural Products and Pharmaceutical Intermediates in Colleges and Universities of Shandong Province, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Wang
- General Surgery Department, Ningbo Fourth Hospital, Xiangshan, China
| | - Liyan Yang
- School of Physics and Physical Engineering, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, China
| | - Xian-qing Song
- General Surgery Department, Ningbo Fourth Hospital, Xiangshan, China
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38
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Zhai LY, Liu JF, Zhao JJ, Su AM, Xi XG, Hou XM. Targeting the RNA G-Quadruplex and Protein Interactome for Antiviral Therapy. J Med Chem 2022; 65:10161-10182. [PMID: 35862260 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, G-quadruplexes (G4s), types of noncanonical four-stranded nucleic acid structures, have been identified in many viruses that threaten human health, such as HIV and Epstein-Barr virus. In this context, G4 ligands were designed to target the G4 structures, among which some have shown promising antiviral effects. In this Perspective, we first summarize the diversified roles of RNA G4s in different viruses. Next, we introduce small-molecule ligands developed as G4 modulators and highlight their applications in antiviral studies. In addition to G4s, we comprehensively review the medical intervention of G4-interacting proteins from both the virus (N protein, viral-encoded helicases, severe acute respiratory syndrome-unique domain, and Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen 1) and the host (heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins, RNA helicases, zinc-finger cellular nucelic acid-binding protein, and nucleolin) by inhibitors as an alternative way to disturb the normal functions of G4s. Finally, we discuss the challenges and opportunities in G4-based antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Yan Zhai
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jing-Fan Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Jian-Jin Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Ai-Min Su
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xu-Guang Xi
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China.,Laboratory of Biology and Applied Pharmacology, CNRS UMR 8113, IDA FR3242, ENS Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette 91190, France
| | - Xi-Miao Hou
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, China
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39
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Binding Properties of RNA Quadruplex of SARS-CoV-2 to Berberine Compared to Telomeric DNA Quadruplex. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105690. [PMID: 35628500 PMCID: PMC9145931 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies suggest that berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid, has antiviral potential and is a possible therapeutic candidate against SARS-CoV-2. The molecular underpinnings of its action are still unknown. Potential targets include quadruplexes (G4Q) in the viral genome as they play a key role in modulating the biological activity of viruses. While several DNA-G4Q structures and their binding properties have been elucidated, RNA-G4Qs such as RG-1 of the N-gene of SARS-CoV-2 are less explored. Using biophysical techniques, the berberine binding thermodynamics and the associated conformational and hydration changes of RG-1 could be characterized and compared with human telomeric DNA-G4Q 22AG. Berberine can interact with both quadruplexes. Substantial changes were observed in the interaction of berberine with 22AG and RG-1, which adopt different topologies that can also change upon ligand binding. The strength of interaction and the thermodynamic signatures were found to dependent not only on the initial conformation of the quadruplex, but also on the type of salt present in solution. Since berberine has shown promise as a G-quadruplex stabilizer that can modulate viral gene expression, this study may also contribute to the development of optimized ligands that can discriminate between binding to DNA and RNA G-quadruplexes.
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