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Tundo GR, Grasso G, Persico M, Tkachuk O, Bellia F, Bocedi A, Marini S, Parravano M, Graziani G, Fattorusso C, Sbardella D. The Insulin-Degrading Enzyme from Structure to Allosteric Modulation: New Perspectives for Drug Design. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1492. [PMID: 37892174 PMCID: PMC10604886 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101492] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) is a Zn2+ peptidase originally discovered as the main enzyme involved in the degradation of insulin and other amyloidogenic peptides, such as the β-amyloid (Aβ) peptide. Therefore, a role for the IDE in the cure of diabetes and Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been long envisaged. Anyway, its role in degrading amyloidogenic proteins remains not clearly defined and, more recently, novel non-proteolytic functions of the IDE have been proposed. From a structural point of view, the IDE presents an atypical clamshell structure, underscoring unique enigmatic enzymological properties. A better understanding of the structure-function relationship may contribute to solving some existing paradoxes of IDE biology and, in light of its multifunctional activity, might lead to novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Raffaella Tundo
- Department of Clinical Science and Traslational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (G.R.T.)
| | - Giuseppe Grasso
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy;
| | - Marco Persico
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (M.P.); (O.T.)
| | - Oleh Tkachuk
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (M.P.); (O.T.)
| | - Francesco Bellia
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Paolo Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy
| | - Alessio Bocedi
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Marini
- Department of Clinical Science and Traslational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (G.R.T.)
| | | | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Caterina Fattorusso
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (M.P.); (O.T.)
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Feng L, Zheng Y, Liu Y, Zhao Y, Lei M, Li Z, Fu S. Hair Zinc and Chromium Levels Were Associated with a Reduced Likelihood of Age Related Cognitive Decline in Centenarians and Oldest-Old Adults. J Nutr Health Aging 2023; 27:1012-1017. [PMID: 37997723 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-023-2008-8] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive function has inevitable decline with advancing age in nature, and age-related cognitive decline (ARCD) is of increasing concern to aging population. Scarce study has involved the associations between hair trace elements and ARCD in older adults, especially in centenarians and oldest-old adults. This study was to investigate the associations between hair trace elements and ARCD in centenarians and oldest-old adults. METHODS Based on the household registration information of centenarians and oldest-old adults provided by the Civil Affairs Department of Hainan Province, China, the investigators conducted a one-to-one household survey among centenarians (≥100 years old) and oldest-old adults (80-99 years old). All 50 centenarians had a median age of 103 years and females accounted for 68.0%. All 73 oldest-old adults aged 80-99 years had a median age of 90 years and females accounted for 82.2%. Basic information were obtained with questionnaire interview, physical examination, biological test and hair collection by pre-trained local doctors and nurses. An inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer was used to measure hair trace elements. All data in this study comes from China. Age, sex, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, smoking, drinking, hemoglobin, albumin, fasting blood pressure, zinc, chromium, copper, selenium, iron, manganese, strontium, lead, magnesium, potassium, and barium were simultaneously included in multivariate Logistic regression analysis. One adjusted model was done with all hair trace elements together. RESULTS Zinc and chromium levels were significantly lower in participants with ARCD than those without ARCD (P < 0.05 for all). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis indicated that zinc [odds ratio (OR): 0.988, 95%confidence interval (95%CI): 0.977-0.999] and chromium (OR: 0.051, 95%CI: 0.004-0.705) were associated with a reduced likelihood of ARCD (P < 0.05 for all). CONCLUSIONS Hair zinc and chromium levels were associated with a reduced likelihood of ARCD in centenarians and oldest-old adults. Further studies are necessary to verify if zinc and chromium supplementation has the potential to improve cognitive function and prevent ARCD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Feng
- Shihui Fu, Department of Cardiology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Sanya, China. E-mail: ; Zhirui Li, Department of Orthopedics, Hainan Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Sanya, China. E-mail: ; Mingxing Lei, Chinese People's Liberation Army Medical School, Beijing, China. E-mail: ; Yali Zhao, Central Laboratory, Hainan Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Sanya, China. E-mail:
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Fasae KD, Abolaji AO, Faloye TR, Odunsi AY, Oyetayo BO, Enya JI, Rotimi JA, Akinyemi RO, Whitworth AJ, Aschner M. Metallobiology and therapeutic chelation of biometals (copper, zinc and iron) in Alzheimer's disease: Limitations, and current and future perspectives. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2021; 67:126779. [PMID: 34034029 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2021.126779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent cause of cognitive impairment and dementia worldwide. The pathobiology of the disease has been studied in the form of several hypotheses, ranging from oxidative stress, amyloid-beta (Aβ) aggregation, accumulation of tau forming neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) through metal dysregulation and homeostasis, dysfunction of the cholinergic system, and to inflammatory and autophagic mechanism. However, none of these hypotheses has led to confirmed diagnostics or approved cure for the disease. OBJECTIVE This review is aimed as a basic and an encyclopedic short course into metals in AD and discusses the advances in chelation strategies and developments adopted in the treatment of the disease. Since there is accumulating evidence of the role of both biometal dyshomeostasis (iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn)) and metal-amyloid interactions that lead to the pathogenesis of AD, this review focuses on unraveling therapeutic chelation strategies that have been considered in the treatment of the disease, aiming to sequester free and protein-bound metal ions and reducing cerebral metal burden. Promising compounds possessing chemically modified moieties evolving as multi-target ligands used as anti-AD drug candidates are also covered. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Several multidirectional and multifaceted studies on metal chelation therapeutics show the need for improved synthesis, screening, and analysis of compounds to be able to effectively present chelating anti-AD drugs. Most drug candidates studied have limitations in their physicochemical properties; some enhance redistribution of metal ions, while others indirectly activate signaling pathways in AD. The metal chelation process in vivo still needs to be established and the design of potential anti-AD compounds that bi-functionally sequester metal ions as well as inhibit the Aβ aggregation by competing with the metal ions and reducing metal-induced oxidative damage and neurotoxicity may signal a bright end in chelation-based therapeutics of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kehinde D Fasae
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Unit, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Amos O Abolaji
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Unit, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
| | - Tolulope R Faloye
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Unit, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Atinuke Y Odunsi
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Unit, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Bolaji O Oyetayo
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Neuropharmacology Unit, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Joseph I Enya
- Department of Anatomy, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
| | - Joshua A Rotimi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Rufus O Akinyemi
- Neuroscience and Ageing Research Unit, Institute for Advanced Medical Research and Training, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | | | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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Lei L, Zou Z, Liu J, Xu Z, Fu Y, Tian Y, Zhang W. Multifunctional peptide-assembled micelles for simultaneously reducing amyloid-β and reactive oxygen species. Chem Sci 2021; 12:6449-6457. [PMID: 34084446 PMCID: PMC8115327 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc00153a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The excessive production and deposition of amyloid-β (Aβ) is one of the most important etiologies of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The interaction between Aβ and metal ions produces aberrant reactive oxygen species (ROS), which induce oxidative stress and accelerate the progression of AD. To reduce Aβ plaques and ROS to maintain their homeostasis is an emerging and ingenious strategy for effective treatment of AD. Herein, we report the rational design of multifunctional micelles (MPGLT) based on a polymer-grafted peptide to simultaneously clear Aβ and ROS for AD therapy. The MPGLT integrating three functional peptides as a ROS scavenger (tk-GSH), β-sheet breaker (LP) and an autophagy activator (TK) respectively, could capture and degrade Aβ. Meanwhile, the tk-GSH on the surface of MPGLT effectively scavenges the intracellular ROS. Consequently, MPGLT reduced the cytotoxicity of Aβ and ROS. In vivo animal studies using an AD mouse model further showed that MPGLT could transport across the blood-brain barrier for decreasing the Aβ plaque and eliminating ROS in vivo. This peptide micelle-based synergistic strategy may provide novel insight for AD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Lei
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University Shanghai 200241 China
- Department of Chemistry, School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University Guiyang 550025 China
| | - Zhifeng Zou
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University Shanghai 200241 China
| | - Jin Liu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University Shanghai 200241 China
| | - Zhiai Xu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University Shanghai 200241 China
| | - Ying Fu
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge Philippa Fawcett Drive Cambridge CB3 0AS UK
| | - Yang Tian
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University Shanghai 200241 China
| | - Wen Zhang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, East China Normal University Shanghai 200062 China
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Abstract
Protein aggregation and amyloid formation are pathogenic events underlying the development of an increasingly large number of human diseases named “proteinopathies”. Abnormal accumulation in affected tissues of amyloid β (Aβ) peptide, islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP), and the prion protein, to mention a few, are involved in the occurrence of Alzheimer’s (AD), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and prion diseases, respectively. Many reports suggest that the toxic properties of amyloid aggregates are correlated with their ability to damage cell membranes. However, the molecular mechanisms causing toxic amyloid/membrane interactions are still far to be completely elucidated. This review aims at describing the mutual relationships linking abnormal protein conformational transition and self-assembly into amyloid aggregates with membrane damage. A cross-correlated analysis of all these closely intertwined factors is thought to provide valuable insights for a comprehensive molecular description of amyloid diseases and, in turn, the design of effective therapies.
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Grasso G. THE USE OF MASS SPECTROMETRY TO STUDY ZN-METALLOPROTEASE-SUBSTRATE INTERACTIONS. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2020; 39:574-585. [PMID: 31898821 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Zinc metalloproteases (ZnMPs) participate in diverse biological reactions, encompassing the synthesis and degradation of all the major metabolites in living organisms. In particular, ZnMPs have been recognized to play a very important role in controlling the concentration level of several peptides and/or proteins whose homeostasis has to be finely regulated for the correct physiology of cells. Dyshomeostasis of aggregation-prone proteins causes pathological conditions and the development of several different diseases. For this reason, in recent years, many analytical approaches have been applied for studying the interaction between ZnMPs and their substrates and how environmental factors can affect enzyme activities. In this scenario, mass spectrometric methods occupy a very important role in elucidating different aspects of ZnMPs-substrates interaction. These range from identification of cleavage sites to quantitation of kinetic parameters. In this work, an overview of all the main achievements regarding the application of mass spectrometric methods to investigating ZnMPs-substrates interactions is presented. A general experimental protocol is also described which may prove useful to the study of similar interactions. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. Mass Spec Rev.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Grasso
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, Catania, 95125, Italy
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7
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Pinheiro L, Faustino C. Therapeutic Strategies Targeting Amyloid-β in Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Alzheimer Res 2020; 16:418-452. [PMID: 30907320 DOI: 10.2174/1567205016666190321163438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 03/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder linked to protein misfolding and aggregation. AD is pathologically characterized by senile plaques formed by extracellular Amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide and Intracellular Neurofibrillary Tangles (NFT) formed by hyperphosphorylated tau protein. Extensive synaptic loss and neuronal degeneration are responsible for memory impairment, cognitive decline and behavioral dysfunctions typical of AD. Amyloidosis has been implicated in the depression of acetylcholine synthesis and release, overactivation of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors and increased intracellular calcium levels that result in excitotoxic neuronal degeneration. Current drugs used in AD treatment are either cholinesterase inhibitors or NMDA receptor antagonists; however, they provide only symptomatic relief and do not alter the progression of the disease. Aβ is the product of Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) processing after successive cleavage by β- and γ-secretases while APP proteolysis by α-secretase results in non-amyloidogenic products. According to the amyloid cascade hypothesis, Aβ dyshomeostasis results in the accumulation and aggregation of Aβ into soluble oligomers and insoluble fibrils. The former are synaptotoxic and can induce tau hyperphosphorylation while the latter deposit in senile plaques and elicit proinflammatory responses, contributing to oxidative stress, neuronal degeneration and neuroinflammation. Aβ-protein-targeted therapeutic strategies are thus a promising disease-modifying approach for the treatment and prevention of AD. This review summarizes recent findings on Aβ-protein targeted AD drugs, including β-secretase inhibitors, γ-secretase inhibitors and modulators, α-secretase activators, direct inhibitors of Aβ aggregation and immunotherapy targeting Aβ, focusing mainly on those currently under clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lídia Pinheiro
- iMed.ULisboa - Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Célia Faustino
- iMed.ULisboa - Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
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Caruso G, Spampinato SF, Cardaci V, Caraci F, Sortino MA, Merlo S. β-amyloid and Oxidative Stress: Perspectives in Drug Development. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:4771-4781. [PMID: 31814548 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666191209115431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a slow-developing neurodegenerative disorder in which the main pathogenic role has been assigned to β-amyloid protein (Aβ) that accumulates in extracellular plaques. The mechanism of action of Aβ has been deeply analyzed and several membrane structures have been identified as potential mediators of its effect. The ability of Aβ to modify neuronal activity, receptor expression, signaling pathways, mitochondrial function, and involvement of glial cells have been analyzed. In addition, extensive literature deals with the involvement of oxidative stress in Aβ effects. Herein we focus more specifically on the reciprocal regulation of Aβ, that causes oxidative stress, that favors Aβ aggregation and toxicity and negatively affects the peptide clearance. Analysis of this strict interaction may offer novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Both common and new molecules endowed with antioxidant properties deserve attention in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simona F Spampinato
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cardaci
- Scuola Superiore di Catania, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.,Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Oasi Research Institute - IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy.,Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria A Sortino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Sara Merlo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
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Malandrino P, Russo M, Gianì F, Pellegriti G, Vigneri P, Belfiore A, Rizzarelli E, Vigneri R. Increased Thyroid Cancer Incidence in Volcanic Areas: A Role of Increased Heavy Metals in the Environment? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103425. [PMID: 32408629 PMCID: PMC7279170 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer incidence is significantly increased in volcanic areas, where relevant non-anthropogenic pollution with heavy metals is present in the environment. This review will discuss whether chronic lifelong exposure to slightly increased levels of metals can contribute to the increase in thyroid cancer in the residents of a volcanic area. The influence of metals on living cells depends on the physicochemical properties of the metals and their interaction with the target cell metallostasis network, which includes transporters, intracellular binding proteins, and metal-responsive elements. Very little is known about the carcinogenic potential of slightly increased metal levels on the thyroid, which might be more sensitive to mutagenic damage because of its unique biology related to iodine, which is a very reactive and strongly oxidizing agent. Different mechanisms could explain the specific carcinogenic effect of borderline/high environmental levels of metals on the thyroid, including (a) hormesis, the nonlinear response to chemicals causing important biological effects at low concentrations; (b) metal accumulation in the thyroid relative to other tissues; and (c) the specific effects of a mixture of different metals. Recent evidence related to all of these mechanisms is now available, and the data are compatible with a cause–effect relationship between increased metal levels in the environment and an increase in thyroid cancer incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasqualino Malandrino
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Medical Center, 95122 Catania, Italy; (P.M.); (M.R.); (F.G.); (G.P.); (A.B.)
| | - Marco Russo
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Medical Center, 95122 Catania, Italy; (P.M.); (M.R.); (F.G.); (G.P.); (A.B.)
| | - Fiorenza Gianì
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Medical Center, 95122 Catania, Italy; (P.M.); (M.R.); (F.G.); (G.P.); (A.B.)
| | - Gabriella Pellegriti
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Medical Center, 95122 Catania, Italy; (P.M.); (M.R.); (F.G.); (G.P.); (A.B.)
| | - Paolo Vigneri
- Medical Oncology and the Center of Experimental Oncology and Hematology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, A.O.U. Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele, 95125 Catania, Italy;
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Medical Center, 95122 Catania, Italy; (P.M.); (M.R.); (F.G.); (G.P.); (A.B.)
| | - Enrico Rizzarelli
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy;
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Cristallography Institute (Catania Section), via P. Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario di Ricerca in Chimica dei Metalli nei Sistemi Biologici (CIRCMSB), via Celso Ulpiani 27, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Riccardo Vigneri
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Garibaldi-Nesima Medical Center, 95122 Catania, Italy; (P.M.); (M.R.); (F.G.); (G.P.); (A.B.)
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Cristallography Institute (Catania Section), via P. Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-095-759-8747
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Oh SB, Kim JA, Park S, Lee JY. Associative Interactions among Zinc, Apolipoprotein E, and Amyloid-β in the Amyloid Pathology. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030802. [PMID: 31991844 PMCID: PMC7037199 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Zinc and apolipoprotein E (apoE) are reportedly involved in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease. To investigate the associative interaction among zinc, apoE, and amyloid-β (Aβ) and its role in amyloid pathogenesis, we performed various biochemical and immunoreactive analyses using brain tissues of Tg2576 mice and synthetic Aβ and apoE peptides. On amyloid plaques or in brain lysates of Tg2576 mice, apoE and Aβ immunoreactivities increased after zinc chelation and were restored by its subsequent replacement. Zinc depletion dissociated apoE/Aβ complexes or larger-molecular sizes of Aβ oligomers/aggregates into smaller-molecular sizes of apoE and/or Aβ monomers/complexes. In the presence of zinc, synthetic apoE and/or Aβ peptides aggregated into larger-molecular sizes of oligomers or complexes. Endogenous proteases or plasmin in brain lysates degraded apoE and/or Aβ complexes, and their proteolytic activity increased with zinc depletion. These biochemical findings suggest that zinc associates with apoE and Aβ to encourage the formation of apoE/Aβ complexes or large aggregates, raising the deposition of zinc-rich amyloid plaques. In turn, the presence of abundant zinc around and within apoE/Aβ complexes may block the access or activity of Aβ-degrading antibodies or proteases. These results support the plausibility of chelation strategy aiming at reducing amyloid pathology in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin Bi Oh
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.B.O.); (J.A.K.); (S.P.)
| | - Jung Ah Kim
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.B.O.); (J.A.K.); (S.P.)
| | - SuJi Park
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.B.O.); (J.A.K.); (S.P.)
- Department of Medical Science, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| | - Joo-Yong Lee
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.B.O.); (J.A.K.); (S.P.)
- Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-3010-4143; Fax: +82-2-3010-4680
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Catania M, Giaccone G, Salmona M, Tagliavini F, Di Fede G. Dreaming of a New World Where Alzheimer's Is a Treatable Disorder. Front Aging Neurosci 2019; 11:317. [PMID: 31803047 PMCID: PMC6873113 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2019.00317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. It’s a chronic and untreatable neurodegenerative disease with irreversible progression and has important social and economic implications in terms of direct medical and social care costs. Despite prolonged and expensive efforts employed by the scientific community over the last few decades, no effective treatments are still available for patients, and the development of disease-modifying drugs is now a really urgent need. The recent failure of clinical trials based on the immunotherapeutic approach against amyloid-β(Aβ) protein questioned the validity of the “amyloid cascade hypothesis” as the molecular machinery causing the disease. Indeed, most attempts to design effective treatments for AD have been based until now on molecular targets suggested to be implicated in AD pathogenesis by the amyloid cascade hypothesis. However, mounting evidence from scientific literature supports the view of AD as a multifactorial disease that results from the concomitant action of multiple molecular players. This view, together with the lack of success of the disease-modifying single-target approaches, strongly suggests that AD drug design needs to be shifted towards multi-targeted compounds or drug combinations acting synergistically on the main core features of disease pathogenesis. The discovery of drug candidates targeting multiple factors involved in AD would greatly improve drug development. So, it is reasonable that upcoming strategies for the design of preventive and/or therapeutic agents for AD point to a multi-pronged approach including more than one druggable target to definitely defeat the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Catania
- Neurology V-Neuropathology Unit and Scientific Directorate, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgio Giaccone
- Neurology V-Neuropathology Unit and Scientific Directorate, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Mario Salmona
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Tagliavini
- Neurology V-Neuropathology Unit and Scientific Directorate, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Di Fede
- Neurology V-Neuropathology Unit and Scientific Directorate, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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Ma M, Wang Y, Gao N, Liu X, Sun Y, Ren J, Qu X. A Near-Infrared-Controllable Artificial Metalloprotease Used for Degrading Amyloid-β Monomers and Aggregates. Chemistry 2019; 25:11852-11858. [PMID: 31361361 DOI: 10.1002/chem.201902828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Proteolysis of amyloid-β (Aβ) is a promising approach against Alzheimer's disease. However, it is not feasible to employ natural hydrolases directly because of their cumbersome preparation and purification, poor stability, and hazardous immunogenicity. Therefore, artificial enzymes have been developed as potential alternatives to natural hydrolases. Since specific cleavage sites of Aβ are usually embedded inside the β-sheet structures that restrict access by artificial enzymes, this strongly hinders their efficiency for practical applications. Herein, we construct a NIR (near-IR) controllable artificial metalloprotease (MoS2 -Co) using a molybdenum disulfide nanosheet (MoS2 ) and a cobalt complex of 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (Codota). Evidenced by detailed experimental and theoretical studies, the NIR-enhanced MoS2 -Co can circumvent the restriction by simultaneously inhibition of β-sheet formation and destroying β-sheet structures of the preformed Aβ aggregates in living cell. Furthermore, our designed MoS2 -Co is an easy to graft Aβ-target agent that prevents misdirected or undesirable hydrolysis reactions, and has been demonstrated to cross the blood brain barrier. This method can be adapted for hydrolysis of other kinds of amyloids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Ma
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of, Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of, Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, P.R. China
| | - Ying Wang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of, Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of, Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
| | - Nan Gao
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of, Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of, Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
| | - Xinping Liu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of, Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of, Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, P.R. China
| | - Yuhuan Sun
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of, Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of, Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, P.R. China
| | - Jinsong Ren
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of, Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of, Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China
| | - Xiaogang Qu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of, Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of, Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, China.,University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, P.R. China
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Grasso G. Mass spectrometry is a multifaceted weapon to be used in the battle against Alzheimer's disease: Amyloid beta peptides and beyond. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2019; 38:34-48. [PMID: 29905953 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) accumulation and aggregation have been considered for many years the main cause of Alzheimer's disease (AD), and therefore have been the principal target of investigation as well as of the proposed therapeutic approaches (Grasso [2011] Mass Spectrom Rev. 30: 347-365). However, the amyloid cascade hypothesis, which considers Aβ accumulation the only causative agent of the disease, has proven to be incomplete if not wrong. In recent years, actors such as metal ions, oxidative stress, and other cofactors have been proposed as possible co-agents or, in some cases, main causative factors of AD. In this scenario, MS investigation has proven to be fundamental to design possible diagnostic strategies of this elusive disease, as well as to understand the biomolecular mechanisms involved, in the attempt to find a possible therapeutic solution. We review the current applications of MS in the search for possible Aβ biomarkers of AD to help the diagnosis of the disease. Recent examples of the important contributions that MS has given to prove or build theories on the molecular pathways involved with such terrible disease are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Grasso
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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14
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Pivotal role of carnosine in the modulation of brain cells activity: Multimodal mechanism of action and therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative disorders. Prog Neurobiol 2018; 175:35-53. [PMID: 30593839 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2018.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Carnosine (β-alanyl-l-histidine), a dipeptide, is an endogenous antioxidant widely distributed in excitable tissues like muscles and the brain. Although discovered more than a hundred years ago and having been extensively studied in the periphery, the role of carnosine in the brain remains mysterious. Carnosinemia, a rare metabolic disorder with increased levels of carnosine in urine and low levels or absence of carnosinase in the blood, is associated with severe neurological symptoms in humans. This review deals with the role of carnosine in the brain in both physiological and pathological conditions, with a focus on preclinical evidence suggesting a high therapeutic potential of carnosine in neurodegenerative disorders. We review carnosine and carnosinemia's discoveries and the extensive research on the role and benefits of carnosine in the periphery. We then turn to carnosine's biochemistry and distribution in the brain. Using an array of recent observations as a foundation, we draw a parallel with the role of carnosine in muscles and speculate on the role of carnosine in promoting the metabolic support of neurons by glial cells. Finally, carnosine has been shown to exert a multimodal activity including inhibition of protein cross-linking and aggregation of amyloid-β and related proteins, free radical generation, nitric oxide detoxification, and an anti-inflammatory activity. It could thus play an important role in the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. We discuss the potential of carnosine in this context and speculate on new preclinical research directions.
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Grasso G, Santoro AM, Lanza V, Sbardella D, Tundo GR, Ciaccio C, Marini S, Coletta M, Milardi D. The double faced role of copper in Aβ homeostasis: A survey on the interrelationship between metal dyshomeostasis, UPS functioning and autophagy in neurodegeneration. Coord Chem Rev 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Tundo GR, Sbardella D, Ciaccio C, Grasso G, Gioia M, Coletta A, Polticelli F, Di Pierro D, Milardi D, Van Endert P, Marini S, Coletta M. Multiple functions of insulin-degrading enzyme: a metabolic crosslight? Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2017. [PMID: 28635330 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2017.1337707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) is a ubiquitous zinc peptidase of the inverzincin family, which has been initially discovered as the enzyme responsible for insulin catabolism; therefore, its involvement in the onset of diabetes has been largely investigated. However, further studies on IDE unraveled its ability to degrade several other polypeptides, such as β-amyloid, amylin, and glucagon, envisaging the possible implication of IDE dys-regulation in the "aggregopathies" and, in particular, in neurodegenerative diseases. Over the last decade, a novel scenario on IDE biology has emerged, pointing out a multi-functional role of this enzyme in several basic cellular processes. In particular, latest advances indicate that IDE behaves as a heat shock protein and modulates the ubiquitin-proteasome system, suggesting a major implication in proteins turnover and cell homeostasis. In addition, recent observations have highlighted that the regulation of glucose metabolism by IDE is not merely based on its largely proposed role in the degradation of insulin in vivo. There is increasing evidence that improper IDE function, regulation, or trafficking might contribute to the etiology of metabolic diseases. In addition, the enzymatic activity of IDE is affected by metals levels, thus suggesting a role also in the metal homeostasis (metallostasis), which is thought to be tightly linked to the malfunction of the "quality control" machinery of the cell. Focusing on the physiological role of IDE, we will address a comprehensive vision of the very complex scenario in which IDE takes part, outlining its crucial role in interconnecting several relevant cellular processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia R Tundo
- a Department of Clinical Sciences and Translation Medicine , University of Roma Tor Vergata , Roma , Italy.,b CIRCMSB , Bari , Italy
| | - Diego Sbardella
- a Department of Clinical Sciences and Translation Medicine , University of Roma Tor Vergata , Roma , Italy.,b CIRCMSB , Bari , Italy.,c Center for TeleInfrastructures, University of Roma Tor Vergata , Roma , Italy
| | - Chiara Ciaccio
- a Department of Clinical Sciences and Translation Medicine , University of Roma Tor Vergata , Roma , Italy.,b CIRCMSB , Bari , Italy
| | - Giuseppe Grasso
- d Department of Chemistry , University of Catania , Catania , Italy.,e CNR IBB , Catania , Italy
| | - Magda Gioia
- a Department of Clinical Sciences and Translation Medicine , University of Roma Tor Vergata , Roma , Italy.,b CIRCMSB , Bari , Italy
| | - Andrea Coletta
- f Department of Chemistry , University of Aarhus , Aarhus , Denmark
| | | | - Donato Di Pierro
- a Department of Clinical Sciences and Translation Medicine , University of Roma Tor Vergata , Roma , Italy.,b CIRCMSB , Bari , Italy
| | | | - Peter Van Endert
- h Université Paris Descartes, INSERM, U1151, CNRS , Paris , France
| | - Stefano Marini
- a Department of Clinical Sciences and Translation Medicine , University of Roma Tor Vergata , Roma , Italy.,b CIRCMSB , Bari , Italy.,c Center for TeleInfrastructures, University of Roma Tor Vergata , Roma , Italy
| | - Massimo Coletta
- a Department of Clinical Sciences and Translation Medicine , University of Roma Tor Vergata , Roma , Italy.,b CIRCMSB , Bari , Italy.,c Center for TeleInfrastructures, University of Roma Tor Vergata , Roma , Italy
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Guan Y, Li M, Dong K, Gao N, Ren J, Zheng Y, Qu X. Ceria/POMs hybrid nanoparticles as a mimicking metallopeptidase for treatment of neurotoxicity of amyloid-β peptide. Biomaterials 2016; 98:92-102. [PMID: 27179436 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2016.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Protein misfolding to amyloid aggregates is the hallmark for neurodegenerative disease. While much attention has been paid to screen natural proteases that can degrade amyloid-β peptides (Aβ), it is difficult to apply them in the clinics with the intractable problem of immunogenicity in living organisms. Herein, we rationally designed an artificial nanozyme, Ceria/Polyoxometalates hybrid (CeONP@POMs) with both proteolytic and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. Our results indicated that CeONP@POMs could efficiently degrade Aβ aggregates and reduce intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). More importantly, CeONP@POMD could not only promote PC12 cell proliferation and can cross blood-brain barrier (BBB), but also inhibit Aβ-induced BV2 microglial cell activation which was demonstrated by immunoluorescence assay and flow cytometry measurements. In vivo studies further indicated that CeONP@POMD as nanozyme possessed good biocompatibility, evidenced by a detailed study of their biodistribution, body weight change, and in vivo toxicology. Therefore, our results pave the way for design of multifunctional artificial nanozyme for treatment of neurotoxicity of amyloid-β peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijia Guan
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 1000039, China
| | - Meng Li
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China
| | - Kai Dong
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China
| | - Nan Gao
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China
| | - Jinsong Ren
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China
| | - Yongchen Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Central Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Xiaogang Qu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China.
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18
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Grasso G, Bonnet S. Metal complexes and metalloproteases: targeting conformational diseases. Metallomics 2015; 6:1346-57. [PMID: 24870829 DOI: 10.1039/c4mt00076e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In recent years many metalloproteases (MPs) have been shown to play important roles in the development of various pathological conditions. Although most of the literature is focused on matrix MPs (MMPs), many other MPs have been demonstrated to be involved in the degradation of peptides or proteins whose accumulation and dyshomeostasis are considered as being responsible for the development of conformational diseases, i.e., diseases where non-native protein conformations lead to protein aggregation. It seems clear that, at least in principle, it must be possible to control the levels of many aggregation-prone proteins not only by reducing their production, but also by enhancing their catabolism. Metal complexes that can perform this function were designed and tested according to at least two different strategies: (i) intervening on the endogenous MPs by directly or indirectly modulating their activity; (ii) acting as artificial MPs, replacing or synergistically functioning with endogenous MPs. These two different bioinorganic approaches are widely represented in the current literature and the aim of this review is to rationally organize and discuss both of them so as to give a critical insight into these approaches and highlighting their limitations and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Grasso
- Chemistry Department, Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università di Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy.
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Tomasello MF, Sinopoli A, Pappalardo G. On the Environmental Factors Affecting the Structural and Cytotoxic Properties of IAPP Peptides. J Diabetes Res 2015; 2015:918573. [PMID: 26582441 PMCID: PMC4637107 DOI: 10.1155/2015/918573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic islets in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients are characterized by reduced β-cells mass and diffuse extracellular amyloidosis. Amyloid deposition involves the islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP), a neuropancreatic hormone cosecreted with insulin by β-cells. IAPP is physiologically involved in glucose homeostasis, but it may turn toxic to β-cells owing to its tendency to misfold giving rise to oligomers and fibrils. The process by which the unfolded IAPP starts to self-assemble and the overall factors promoting this conversion are poorly understood. Other open questions are related to the nature of the IAPP toxic species and how exactly β-cells die. Over the last decades, there has been growing consensus about the notion that early molecular assemblies, notably small hIAPP oligomers, are the culprit of β-cells decline. Numerous environmental factors might affect the conformational, aggregation, and cytotoxic properties of IAPP. Herein we review recent progress in the field, focusing on the influences that membranes, pH, and metal ions may have on the conformational conversion and cytotoxicity of full-length IAPP as well as peptide fragments thereof. Current theories proposed for the mechanisms of toxicity will be also summarized together with an outline of the underlying molecular links between IAPP and amyloid beta (Aβ) misfolding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandro Sinopoli
- International PhD Program in Translational Biomedicine, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Pappalardo
- CNR Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, Via P. Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy
- *Giuseppe Pappalardo:
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Grasso G. Monitoring the biomolecular interactions and the activity of Zn-containing enzymes involved in conformational diseases: experimental methods for therapeutic purposes. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2014; 97:115-42. [PMID: 25458357 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2014.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Zinc metalloproteases (ZnMPs) participate in diverse biological reactions, encompassing the synthesis and degradation of all the major metabolites in living organisms. In particular, ZnMPs have been recognized to play a very important role in controlling the concentration level of several peptides and/or proteins whose homeostasis has to be finely regulated for the correct physiology of cells. Dyshomeostasis of aggregation-prone proteins causes pathological conditions and the development of several different diseases. For this reason, in recent years, many analytical approaches have been applied for studying the interaction between ZnMPs and their substrates/inhibitors and how environmental factors can affect enzyme activities. In this scenario, nuclear magnetic resonance, X-ray diffraction, mass spectrometric (MS), and optical methods occupy a very important role in elucidating different aspects of the ZnMPs-substrates/inhibitors interaction, ranging from identification of cleavage sites to quantitation of kinetic parameters and inhibition constants. Here, an overview of all the main achievements in the application of different experimental approaches with special attention to MS methods to the investigation of ZnMPs-substrates/inhibitors interaction is given. A general MS experimental protocol which has been proved to be useful to study such interactions is also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Grasso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy.
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21
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Sinopoli A, Magrì A, Milardi D, Pappalardo M, Pucci P, Flagiello A, Titman JJ, Nicoletti VG, Caruso G, Pappalardo G, Grasso G. The role of copper(II) in the aggregation of human amylin. Metallomics 2014; 6:1841-52. [PMID: 25080969 DOI: 10.1039/c4mt00130c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Amylin is a 37-residue peptide hormone produced by the islet β-cells of pancreas and the formation of amylin aggregates is strongly associated with β-cell degeneration in type 2 diabetes, as demonstrated by more than 95% of patients exhibiting amylin amyloid upon autopsy. It is widely recognized that metal ions such as copper(II) have been implicated in the aggregation process of amyloidogenic peptides such as Aβ and α-synuclein and there is evidence that amylin self-assembly is also largely affected by copper(II). For this reason, in this work, the role of copper(II) in the aggregation of amylin has been investigated by several different experimental approaches. Mass spectrometric investigations show that copper(II) induces significant changes in the amylin structure, which decrease the protein fibrillogenesis as observed by ThT measurements. Accordingly, solid-state NMR experiments together with computational analysis carried out on a model amylin fragment confirmed the non-fibrillogenic nature of the copper(II) induced aggregated structure. Finally, the presence of copper(II) is also shown to have a major influence on amylin proneness to be degraded by proteases and cytotoxicity studies on different cell cultures are reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Sinopoli
- Dottorato Internazionale in Biomedicina Traslazionale, Università degli Studi di Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
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Xu H, Finkelstein DI, Adlard PA. Interactions of metals and Apolipoprotein E in Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2014; 6:121. [PMID: 24971061 PMCID: PMC4054654 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2014.00121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, which is characterized by the neuropathological accumulation of extracellular amyloid plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Clinically, patients will endure a gradual erosion of memory and other higher order cognitive functions. Whilst the underlying etiology of the disease remains to be definitively identified, a body of work has developed over the last two decades demonstrating that AD plasma/serum and brain are characterized by a dyshomeostasis in a number of metal ions. Furthermore, these metals (such as zinc, copper and iron) play roles in the regulation of the levels of AD-related proteins, including the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and tau. It is becoming apparent that metals also interact with other proteins, including apolipoprotein E (ApoE). The Apolipoprotein E gene (APOE) is critically associated with AD, with APOE4 representing the strongest genetic risk factor for the development of late-onset AD. In this review we will summarize the evidence supporting a role for metals in the function of ApoE and its consequent role in the pathogenesis of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Xu
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David I Finkelstein
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul A Adlard
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Bellia F, Grasso G. The role of copper(II) and zinc(II) in the degradation of human and murine IAPP by insulin-degrading enzyme. JOURNAL OF MASS SPECTROMETRY : JMS 2014; 49:274-279. [PMID: 24719342 DOI: 10.1002/jms.3338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2013] [Revised: 12/20/2013] [Accepted: 01/19/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Amylin or islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) is a 37-residue peptide hormone secreted from the pancreatic islets into the blood circulation and is cleared by peptidases in the kidney. IAPP aggregates are strongly associated with β-cell degeneration in type 2 diabetes, as demonstrated by the fact that more than 95% of patients exhibit IAPP amyloid upon autopsy. Recently, it has been reported that metal ions such as copper(II) and zinc(II) are implicated in the aggregation of IAPP as well as able to modulate the proteolytic activity of IAPP degrading enzymes. For this reason, in this work, the role of the latter metal ions in the degradation of IAPP by insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) has been investigated by a chromatographic and mass spectrometric combined method. The latter experimental approach allowed not only to assess the overall metal ion inhibition of the human and murine IAPP degradation by IDE but also to have information on copper- and zinc-induced changes in IAPP aggregation. In addition, IDE cleavage site preferences in the presence of metal ions are rationalized as metal ion-induced changes in substrate accessibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Bellia
- Istituto Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy
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24
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The clearance of misfolded proteins in neurodegenerative diseases by zinc metalloproteases: An inorganic perspective. Coord Chem Rev 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2013.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Nuttall JR, Oteiza PI. Zinc and the aging brain. GENES AND NUTRITION 2013; 9:379. [PMID: 24366781 DOI: 10.1007/s12263-013-0379-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2013] [Accepted: 12/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Alterations in trace element homeostasis could be involved in the pathology of dementia, and in particular of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Zinc is a structural or functional component of many proteins, being involved in numerous and relevant physiological functions. Zinc homeostasis is affected in the elderly, and current evidence points to alterations in the cellular and systemic distribution of zinc in AD. Although the association of zinc and other metals with AD pathology remains unclear, therapeutic approaches designed to restore trace element homeostasis are being tested in clinical trials. Not only could zinc supplementation potentially benefit individuals with AD, but zinc supplementation also improves glycemic control in the elderly suffering from diabetes mellitus. However, the findings that select genetic polymorphisms may alter an individual's zinc intake requirements should be taken into consideration when planning zinc supplementation. This review will focus on current knowledge regarding pathological and protective mechanisms involving brain zinc in AD to highlight areas where future research may enable development of new and improved therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnathan R Nuttall
- Department of Nutrition, University of California, One Shields Av., Davis, CA, 95616, USA
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Grasso G, Magrì A, Bellia F, Pietropaolo A, La Mendola D, Rizzarelli E. The copper(II) and zinc(II) coordination mode of HExxH and HxxEH motif in small peptides: the role of carboxylate location and hydrogen bonding network. J Inorg Biochem 2013; 130:92-102. [PMID: 24184693 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2013.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2013] [Revised: 09/30/2013] [Accepted: 09/30/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Copper(II) and zinc(II) complexes with two hexapeptides encompassing HExxH and HxxEH motif were characterized by means of a combined experimental and theoretical approach. Parallel tempering and density functional theory (DFT) investigations show the presence of different hydrogen bonding networks between the copper(II) and zinc(II) complexes with the two peptides, suggesting a significant contribution of these non-covalent interactions to the stability constant values. The glutamate carboxylate group has a direct role in metal ion binding. The location of this amino acid along the sequence of the investigated peptides is critical to determine thermodynamic and spectroscopic features of the copper(II) complex species, whereas is less relevant in the zinc(II) complexes formation. Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) characterization of the zinc(II) complex species show that in the [ZnH-2L] two deprotonated amide nitrogen atoms are involved in the metal coordination environment, an uncommon behavior in zinc(II) complexes for multi-histidine ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Grasso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università degli Studi di Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
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Travaglia A, La Mendola D, Magrì A, Pietropaolo A, Nicoletti VG, Grasso G, Malgieri G, Fattorusso R, Isernia C, Rizzarelli E. Zinc(II) interactions with brain-derived neurotrophic factor N-terminal peptide fragments: inorganic features and biological perspectives. Inorg Chem 2013; 52:11075-83. [PMID: 24070197 DOI: 10.1021/ic401318t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin essential for neuronal differentiation, growth, and survival; it is involved in memory formation and higher cognitive functions. The N-terminal domain of BDNF is crucial for the binding selectivity and activation of its specific TrkB receptor. Zn(2+) ion binding may influence BDNF activity. Zn(2+) complexes with the peptide fragment BDNF(1-12) encompassing the sequence 1-12 of the N-terminal domain of BDNF were studied by means of potentiometry, electrospray mass spectrometry, NMR, and density functional theory (DFT) approaches. The predominant Zn(2+) complex species, at physiological pH, is [ZnL] in which the metal ion is bound to an amino, an imidazole, and two water molecules (NH2, N(Im), and 2O(water)) in a tetrahedral environment. DFT-based geometry optimization of the zinc coordination environment showed a hydrogen bond between the carboxylate and a water molecule bound to zinc in [ZnL]. The coordination features of the acetylated form [AcBDNF(1-12)] and of a single mutated peptide [BDNF(1-12)D3N] were also characterized, highlighting the role of the imidazole side chain as the first anchoring site and ruling out the direct involvement of the aspartate residue in the metal binding. Zn(2+) addition to the cell culture medium induces an increase in the proliferative activity of the BDNF(1-12) peptide and of the whole protein on the SHSY5Y neuroblastoma cell line. The effect of Zn(2+) is opposite to that previously observed for Cu(2+) addition, which determines a decrease in the proliferative activity for both peptide and protein, suggesting that these metals might discriminate and modulate differently the activity of BDNF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Travaglia
- Center for Neural Science, New York University , 4 Washington Place, New York, New York 10003, United States
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Grasso G, Spoto G. Plasmonics for the study of metal ion–protein interactions. Anal Bioanal Chem 2012; 405:1833-43. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-012-6421-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2012] [Revised: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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