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Eisenbraun EL, Vulpis TD, Prosser BN, Horswill AR, Blackwell HE. Synthetic Peptides Capable of Potent Multigroup Staphylococcal Quorum Sensing Activation and Inhibition in Both Cultures and Biofilm Communities. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:15941-15954. [PMID: 38832917 PMCID: PMC11321086 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c02694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
The pathogen Staphylococcus epidermidis uses a chemical signaling process, i.e., quorum sensing (QS), to form robust biofilms and cause human infection. Many questions remain about QS in S. epidermidis, as it uses this intercellular communication pathway to both negatively and positively regulate virulence traits. Herein, we report synthetic multigroup agonists and antagonists of the S. epidermidis accessory gene regulator (agr) QS system capable of potent superactivation and complete inhibition, respectively. These macrocyclic peptides maintain full efficacy across the three major agr specificity groups, and their activity can be "mode-switched" from agonist to antagonist via subtle residue-specific structural changes. We describe the design and synthesis of these non-native peptides and demonstrate that they can appreciably decrease biofilm formation on abiotic surfaces, underscoring the potential for agr agonism as a route to block S. epidermidis virulence. Additionally, we show that both the S. epidermidis agonists and antagonists are active in S. aureus, another common pathogen with a related agr system, yet only as antagonists. This result not only revealed one of the most potent agr inhibitors known in S. aureus but also highlighted differences in the mechanisms of agr agonism and antagonism between these related bacteria. Finally, our investigations reveal unexpected inhibitory behavior for certain S. epidermidis agr agonists at sub-activating concentrations, an observation that can be leveraged for the design of future probes with enhanced potencies. Together, these peptides provide a powerful tool set to interrogate the role of QS in S. epidermidis infections and in Staphylococcal pathogenicity in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L. Eisenbraun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Troy D. Vulpis
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Brendan N. Prosser
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Alexander R. Horswill
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Helen E. Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706, USA
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2
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Gong X, Brand CJ, Bertucci MA. Designing and synthesizing peptide-based quorum sensing modulators. Methods Enzymol 2024; 698:263-299. [PMID: 38886035 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2024.04.017] [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: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) is a density-dependent bacterial communication system that uses small molecules as regulatory modulators. Synthetic changes to these molecules can up-or-down-regulate this system, leading to control of phenotypes, like competence and virulence factor production, that have implications in human health. In this chapter, a methodology for library design and screening of synthetic autoinducing peptides (AIPs) to uncover QS SARs is delineated. Additionally, procedures for the synthesis, purification and analysis of linear and cyclic AIPs are detailed. This includes solutions for potential synthetic challenges including diketopiperazine formation when using N-methyl amino acids and cyclization of peptides containing N-terminal cysteine residues. These procedures have and are currently being applied to develop potent QS modulators in Streptococcus pneumoniae, Bacillus cereus, Streptococcus gordonii and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotian Gong
- Department of Chemistry, Lafayette College, Easton, PA, United States
| | - Carter J Brand
- Department of Chemistry, Lafayette College, Easton, PA, United States
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3
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Lawther K, Santos FG, Oyama LB, Huws SA. - Invited Review - Chemical signalling within the rumen microbiome. Anim Biosci 2024; 37:337-345. [PMID: 38186253 PMCID: PMC10838665 DOI: 10.5713/ab.23.0374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Ruminants possess a specialized four-compartment forestomach, consisting of the reticulum, rumen, omasum, and abomasum. The rumen, the primary fermentative chamber, harbours a dynamic ecosystem comprising bacteria, protozoa, fungi, archaea, and bacteriophages. These microorganisms engage in diverse ecological interactions within the rumen microbiome, primarily benefiting the host animal by deriving energy from plant material breakdown. These interactions encompass symbiosis, such as mutualism and commensalism, as well as parasitism, predation, and competition. These ecological interactions are dependent on many factors, including the production of diverse molecules, such as those involved in quorum sensing (QS). QS is a density-dependent signalling mechanism involving the release of autoinducer (AIs) compounds, when cell density increases AIs bind to receptors causing the altered expression of certain genes. These AIs are classified as mainly being N-acyl-homoserine lactones (AHL; commonly used by Gram-negative bacteria) or autoinducer-2 based systems (AI-2; used by Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria); although other less common AI systems exist. Most of our understanding of QS at a gene-level comes from pure culture in vitro studies using bacterial pathogens, with much being unknown on a commensal bacterial and ecosystem level, especially in the context of the rumen microbiome. A small number of studies have explored QS in the rumen using 'omic' technologies, revealing a prevalence of AI-2 QS systems among rumen bacteria. Nevertheless, the implications of these signalling systems on gene regulation, rumen ecology, and ruminant characteristics are largely uncharted territory. Metatranscriptome data tracking the colonization of perennial ryegrass by rumen microbes suggest that these chemicals may influence transitions in bacterial diversity during colonization. The likelihood of undiscovered chemicals within the rumen microbial arsenal is high, with the identified chemicals representing only the tip of the iceberg. A comprehensive grasp of rumen microbial chemical signalling is crucial for addressing the challenges of food security and climate targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Lawther
- School of Biological Sciences/Institute for Global Food Security, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 5DL,
UK
| | - Fernanda Godoy Santos
- School of Biological Sciences/Institute for Global Food Security, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 5DL,
UK
| | - Linda B Oyama
- School of Biological Sciences/Institute for Global Food Security, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 5DL,
UK
| | - Sharon A Huws
- School of Biological Sciences/Institute for Global Food Security, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 5DL,
UK
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4
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West KHJ, Ma SV, Pensinger DA, Tucholski T, Tiambeng TN, Eisenbraun EL, Yehuda A, Hayouka Z, Ge Y, Sauer JD, Blackwell HE. Characterization of an Autoinducing Peptide Signal Reveals Highly Efficacious Synthetic Inhibitors and Activators of Quorum Sensing and Biofilm Formation in Listeria monocytogenes. Biochemistry 2023; 62:2878-2892. [PMID: 37699554 PMCID: PMC10676741 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.3c00373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Bacteria can use chemical signals to assess their local population density in a process called quorum sensing (QS). Many of these bacteria are common pathogens, including Gram-positive bacteria that utilize agr QS systems regulated by macrocyclic autoinducing peptide (AIP) signals. Listeria monocytogenes, an important foodborne pathogen, uses an agr system to regulate a variety of virulence factors and biofilm formation, yet little is known about the specific roles of agr in Listeria infection and its persistence in various environments. Herein, we report synthetic peptide tools that will enable the study of QS in Listeria. We identified a 6-mer AIP signal in L. monocytogenes supernatants and selected it as a scaffold around which a collection of non-native AIP mimics was designed and synthesized. These peptides were evaluated in cell-based agr reporter assays to generate structure-activity relationships for AIP-based agonism and antagonism in L. monocytogenes. We discovered synthetic agonists with increased potency relative to native AIP and a synthetic antagonist capable of reducing agr activity to basal levels. Notably, the latter peptide was able to reduce biofilm formation by over 90%, a first for a synthetic QS modulator in wild-type L. monocytogenes. The lead agr agonist and antagonist in L. monocytogenes were also capable of antagonizing agr signaling in the related pathogen Staphylococcus aureus, further extending their utility and suggesting different mechanisms of agr activation in these two pathogens. This study represents an important first step in the application of chemical methods to modulate QS and concomitant virulence outcomes in L. monocytogenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Korbin H J West
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Stella V Ma
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Daniel A Pensinger
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1550 Linden Dr., Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Trisha Tucholski
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Timothy N Tiambeng
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Emma L Eisenbraun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Avishag Yehuda
- Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Zvi Hayouka
- Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Ying Ge
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin Institute for Medical Research, 1111 Highland Ave., Madison, Wisconsin 53705, United States
| | - John-Demian Sauer
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1550 Linden Dr., Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Helen E Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
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5
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Williams P, Hill P, Bonev B, Chan WC. Quorum-sensing, intra- and inter-species competition in the staphylococci. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2023; 169:001381. [PMID: 37578829 PMCID: PMC10482373 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.001381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
In Gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and the coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS), the accessory gene regulator (agr) is a highly conserved but polymorphic quorum-sensing system involved in colonization, virulence and biofilm development. Signalling via agr depends on the interaction of an autoinducing peptide (AIP) with AgrC, a transmembrane sensor kinase that, once phosphorylated activates the response regulator AgrA. This in turn autoinduces AIP biosynthesis and drives target gene expression directly via AgrA or via the post-transcriptional regulator, RNAIII. In this review we describe the molecular mechanisms underlying the agr-mediated generation of, and response to, AIPs and the molecular basis of AIP-dependent activation and inhibition of AgrC. How the environment impacts on agr functionality is considered and the consequences of agr dysfunction for infection explored. We also discuss the concept of AIP-driven competitive interference between S. aureus and the CoNS and its anti-infective potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Williams
- Biodiscovery Institute and School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Phil Hill
- School of Biosciences, Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Boyan Bonev
- Biodiscovery Institute and School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Weng C. Chan
- School of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
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Polaske TJ, West KHJ, Zhao K, Widner DL, York JT, Blackwell HE. Chemical and biomolecular insights into the Staphylococcus aureus agr quorum sensing system: Current progress and ongoing challenges. Isr J Chem 2023; 63:e202200096. [PMID: 38765792 PMCID: PMC11101167 DOI: 10.1002/ijch.202200096] [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: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a ubiquitous bacterium that has become a major threat to human health due to its extensive toxin production and tremendous capacity for antibiotic resistance (e.g., MRSA "superbug" infections). Amid a worsening antibiotic resistance crisis, new strategies to combat this deadly microbe that remove the selective pressure of traditional approaches are in high demand. S. aureus utilizes an accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum sensing network to monitor its local cellular population and trigger a devastating communal attack, like an invading horde, once a threshold cell density has been reached. The role of the agr system in a range of disease types is still being unraveled. Herein, we discuss the present-day biochemical understanding of agr along with unresolved details, describe its connection to the progression of infection, and review how chemical strategies have been implemented to study and intercept this signaling pathway. This research is illuminating the potential of agr as an anti-virulence target in S. aureus and should inform the study of similar, yet less studied, agr systems in related bacterial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J. Polaske
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Korbin H. J. West
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Ke Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Danielle L. Widner
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Jordan T. York
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Helen E. Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
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Milly TA, Tal-Gan Y. Targeting Peptide-Based Quorum Sensing Systems for the Treatment of Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections. Pept Sci (Hoboken) 2023; 115:e24298. [PMID: 37397504 PMCID: PMC10312355 DOI: 10.1002/pep2.24298] [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: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Bacteria utilize a cell density-dependent communication system called quorum sensing (QS) to coordinate group behaviors. In Gram-positive bacteria, QS involves the production of and response to auto-inducing peptide (AIP) signaling molecules to modulate group phenotypes, including pathogenicity. As such, this bacterial communication system has been identified as a potential therapeutic target against bacterial infections. More specifically, developing synthetic modulators derived from the native peptide signal paves a new way to selectively block the pathogenic behaviors associated with this signaling system. Moreover, rational design and development of potent synthetic peptide modulators allows in depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms that drive QS circuits in diverse bacterial species. Overall, studies aimed at understanding the role of QS in microbial social behavior could result in the accumulation of significant knowledge of microbial interactions, and consequently lead to the development of alternative therapeutic agents to treat bacterial infectivity. In this review, we discuss recent advances in the development of peptide-based modulators to target QS systems in Gram-positive pathogens, with a focus on evaluating the therapeutic potential associated with these bacterial signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahmina A. Milly
- Department of Chemistry, University of Nevada, Reno, 1664 North Virginia Street, Reno, Nevada, 89557, United States
| | - Yftah Tal-Gan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Nevada, Reno, 1664 North Virginia Street, Reno, Nevada, 89557, United States
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8
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Sabino YNV, Cotter PD, Mantovani HC. Anti-virulence compounds against Staphylococcus aureus associated with bovine mastitis: A new therapeutic option? Microbiol Res 2023; 271:127345. [PMID: 36889204 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2023.127345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Bovine mastitis represents a major economic burden faced by the dairy industry. S. aureus is an important and prevalent bovine mastitis-associated pathogen in dairy farms worldwide. The pathogenicity and persistence of S. aureus in the bovine mammary gland are associated with the expression of a range of virulence factors involved in biofilm formation and the production of several toxins. The traditional therapeutic approach to treating bovine mastitis includes the use of antibiotics, but the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains has caused therapeutic failure. New therapeutic approaches targeting virulence factors of S. aureus rather than cell viability can have several advantages including lower selective pressure towards the development of resistance and little impact on the host commensal microbiota. This review summarizes the potential of anti-virulence therapies to control S. aureus associated with bovine mastitis focusing on anti-toxin, anti-biofilm, and anti-quorum sensing compounds. It also points to potential sources of new anti-virulence inhibitors and presents screening strategies for identifying these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hilario C Mantovani
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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9
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Ongpipattanakul C, Desormeaux EK, DiCaprio A, van der Donk WA, Mitchell DA, Nair SK. Mechanism of Action of Ribosomally Synthesized and Post-Translationally Modified Peptides. Chem Rev 2022; 122:14722-14814. [PMID: 36049139 PMCID: PMC9897510 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) are a natural product class that has undergone significant expansion due to the rapid growth in genome sequencing data and recognition that they are made by biosynthetic pathways that share many characteristic features. Their mode of actions cover a wide range of biological processes and include binding to membranes, receptors, enzymes, lipids, RNA, and metals as well as use as cofactors and signaling molecules. This review covers the currently known modes of action (MOA) of RiPPs. In turn, the mechanisms by which these molecules interact with their natural targets provide a rich set of molecular paradigms that can be used for the design or evolution of new or improved activities given the relative ease of engineering RiPPs. In this review, coverage is limited to RiPPs originating from bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chayanid Ongpipattanakul
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Emily K. Desormeaux
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Adam DiCaprio
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Wilfred A. van der Donk
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Department of Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Departments of Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1206 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Corresponding authors Wilfred A. van der Donk, , 217-244-5360, Douglas A. Mitchell, , 217-333-1345, Satish K. Nair, , 217-333-0641
| | - Douglas A. Mitchell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Department of Microbiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Departments of Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1206 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Corresponding authors Wilfred A. van der Donk, , 217-244-5360, Douglas A. Mitchell, , 217-333-1345, Satish K. Nair, , 217-333-0641
| | - Satish K. Nair
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 600 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Departments of Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1206 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.,Corresponding authors Wilfred A. van der Donk, , 217-244-5360, Douglas A. Mitchell, , 217-333-1345, Satish K. Nair, , 217-333-0641
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Martínez OF, Duque HM, Franco OL. Peptidomimetics as Potential Anti-Virulence Drugs Against Resistant Bacterial Pathogens. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:831037. [PMID: 35516442 PMCID: PMC9062693 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.831037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The uncontrollable spread of superbugs calls for new approaches in dealing with microbial-antibiotic resistance. Accordingly, the anti-virulence approach has arisen as an attractive unconventional strategy to face multidrug-resistant pathogens. As an emergent strategy, there is an imperative demand for discovery, design, and development of anti-virulence drugs. In this regard, peptidomimetic compounds could be a valuable source of anti-virulence drugs, since these molecules circumvent several shortcomings of natural peptide-based drugs like proteolytic instability, immunogenicity, toxicity, and low bioavailability. Some emerging evidence points to the feasibility of peptidomimetics to impair pathogen virulence. Consequently, in this review, we shed some light on the potential of peptidomimetics as anti-virulence drugs to overcome antibiotic resistance. Specifically, we address the anti-virulence activity of peptidomimetics against pathogens' secretion systems, biofilms, and quorum-sensing systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osmel Fleitas Martínez
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, S-Inova Biotech, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
| | - Harry Morales Duque
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Octávio Luiz Franco
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, S-Inova Biotech, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
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11
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Bleul L, Francois P, Wolz C. Two-Component Systems of S. aureus: Signaling and Sensing Mechanisms. Genes (Basel) 2021; 13:genes13010034. [PMID: 35052374 PMCID: PMC8774646 DOI: 10.3390/genes13010034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus encodes 16 two-component systems (TCSs) that enable the bacteria to sense and respond to changing environmental conditions. Considering the function of these TCSs in bacterial survival and their potential role as drug targets, it is important to understand the exact mechanisms underlying signal perception. The differences between the sensing of appropriate signals and the transcriptional activation of the TCS system are often not well described, and the signaling mechanisms are only partially understood. Here, we review present insights into which signals are sensed by histidine kinases in S. aureus to promote appropriate gene expression in response to diverse environmental challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Bleul
- Interfaculty Institute of Microbiology and Infection Medicine, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tubingen, Germany;
- Cluster of Excellence EXC 2124 “Controlling Microbes to Fight Infections”, University of Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Str. 6, 72076 Tubingen, Germany
| | - Patrice Francois
- Genomic Research Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Service, University Hospitals of Geneva University Medical Center, Michel Servet 1, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - Christiane Wolz
- Interfaculty Institute of Microbiology and Infection Medicine, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tubingen, Germany;
- Cluster of Excellence EXC 2124 “Controlling Microbes to Fight Infections”, University of Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Str. 6, 72076 Tubingen, Germany
- Correspondence:
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12
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West KHJ, Shen W, Eisenbraun EL, Yang T, Vasquez JK, Horswill AR, Blackwell HE. Non-Native Peptides Capable of Pan-Activating the agr Quorum Sensing System across Multiple Specificity Groups of Staphylococcus epidermidis. ACS Chem Biol 2021; 16:1070-1078. [PMID: 33988969 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.1c00240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Staphylococcus epidermidis is a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections. Traditional antibiotics have significantly reduced efficacy against this pathogen due to its ability to form biofilms on abiotic surfaces and drug resistance. The accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum sensing system is directly involved in S. epidermidis pathogenesis. Activation of agr is achieved via binding of the autoinducing peptide (AIP) signal to the extracellular sensor domain of its cognate receptor, AgrC. Divergent evolution has given rise to four agr specificity groups in S. epidermidis defined by the unique AIP sequence used by each group (AIPs-I-IV) with observed cross-group activities. As agr agonism has been shown to reduce biofilm growth in S. epidermidis, the development of pan-group activators of the agr system is of interest as a potential antivirulence strategy. To date, no synthetic compounds have been identified that are capable of appreciably activating the agr system of more than one specificity group of S. epidermidis or, to our knowledge, of any of the other Staphylococci. Here, we report the characterization of the structure-activity relationships for agr agonism by S. epidermidis AIP-II and AIP-III and the application of these new SAR data and those previously reported for AIP-I for the design and synthesis of the first multigroup agr agonists. These non-native peptides were capable of inducing the expression of critical biofilm dispersal agents (i.e., phenol-soluble modulins) in cell culture and represent new tools to study the role of quorum sensing in S. epidermidis infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Korbin H. J. West
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin−Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Wenqi Shen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin−Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Emma L. Eisenbraun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin−Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Tian Yang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin−Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Joseph K. Vasquez
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin−Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Alexander R. Horswill
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado 80045, United States
| | - Helen E. Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin−Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
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13
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Molloy EM, Dell M, Hänsch VG, Dunbar KL, Feldmann R, Oberheide A, Seyfarth L, Kumpfmüller J, Horch T, Arndt H, Hertweck C. Enzyme‐Primed Native Chemical Ligation Produces Autoinducing Cyclopeptides in Clostridia. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202016378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn M. Molloy
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology HKI Beutenbergstr. 11a 07745 Jena Germany
| | - Maria Dell
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology HKI Beutenbergstr. 11a 07745 Jena Germany
| | - Veit G. Hänsch
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology HKI Beutenbergstr. 11a 07745 Jena Germany
| | - Kyle L. Dunbar
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology HKI Beutenbergstr. 11a 07745 Jena Germany
| | - Romy Feldmann
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology HKI Beutenbergstr. 11a 07745 Jena Germany
| | - Ansgar Oberheide
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry Friedrich Schiller University Jena Humboldtstr. 10 07743 Jena Germany
| | - Lydia Seyfarth
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry Friedrich Schiller University Jena Humboldtstr. 10 07743 Jena Germany
| | - Jana Kumpfmüller
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology HKI Beutenbergstr. 11a 07745 Jena Germany
| | - Therese Horch
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology HKI Beutenbergstr. 11a 07745 Jena Germany
| | - Hans‐Dieter Arndt
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry Friedrich Schiller University Jena Humboldtstr. 10 07743 Jena Germany
| | - Christian Hertweck
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology HKI Beutenbergstr. 11a 07745 Jena Germany
- Faculty of Biological Sciences Friedrich Schiller University Jena 07743 Jena Germany
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14
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Molloy EM, Dell M, Hänsch VG, Dunbar KL, Feldmann R, Oberheide A, Seyfarth L, Kumpfmüller J, Horch T, Arndt HD, Hertweck C. Enzyme-Primed Native Chemical Ligation Produces Autoinducing Cyclopeptides in Clostridia. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:10670-10679. [PMID: 33625794 PMCID: PMC8251862 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202016378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Clostridia coordinate many important processes such as toxin production, infection, and survival by density‐dependent communication (quorum sensing) using autoinducing peptides (AIPs). Although clostridial AIPs have been proposed to be (thio)lactone‐containing peptides, their true structures remain elusive. Here, we report the genome‐guided discovery of an AIP that controls endospore formation in Ruminiclostridium cellulolyticum. Through a combination of chemical synthesis and chemical complementation assays with a mutant strain, we reveal that the genuine chemical mediator is a homodetic cyclopeptide (cAIP). Kinetic analyses indicate that the mature cAIP is produced via a cryptic thiolactone intermediate that undergoes a rapid S→N acyl shift, in a manner similar to intramolecular native chemical ligation (NCL). Finally, by implementing a chemical probe in a targeted screen, we show that this novel enzyme‐primed, intramolecular NCL is a widespread feature of clostridial AIP biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn M Molloy
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry, Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology, HKI, Beutenbergstr. 11a, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Maria Dell
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry, Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology, HKI, Beutenbergstr. 11a, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Veit G Hänsch
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry, Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology, HKI, Beutenbergstr. 11a, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Kyle L Dunbar
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry, Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology, HKI, Beutenbergstr. 11a, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Romy Feldmann
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry, Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology, HKI, Beutenbergstr. 11a, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Ansgar Oberheide
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstr. 10, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Lydia Seyfarth
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstr. 10, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Jana Kumpfmüller
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry, Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology, HKI, Beutenbergstr. 11a, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Therese Horch
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry, Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology, HKI, Beutenbergstr. 11a, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Hans-Dieter Arndt
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstr. 10, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Hertweck
- Dept. of Biomolecular Chemistry, Leibniz Institute for Natural, Product Research and Infection Biology, HKI, Beutenbergstr. 11a, 07745, Jena, Germany.,Faculty of Biological Sciences, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743, Jena, Germany
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15
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Khan F, Javaid A, Kim YM. Functional Diversity of Quorum Sensing Receptors in Pathogenic Bacteria: Interspecies, Intraspecies and Interkingdom Level. Curr Drug Targets 2020; 20:655-667. [PMID: 30468123 DOI: 10.2174/1389450120666181123123333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The formation of biofilm by pathogenic bacteria is considered as one of the most powerful mechanisms/modes of resistance against the action of several antibiotics. Biofilm is formed as a structural adherent over the surfaces of host, food and equipments etc. and is further functionally coordinated by certain chemicals produced itself. These chemicals are known as quorum sensing (QS) signaling molecules and are involved in the cross talk at interspecies, intraspecies and interkingdom levels thus resulting in the production of virulence factors leading to pathogenesis. Bacteria possess receptors to sense these chemicals, which interact with the incoming QS molecules. It is followed by the secretion of virulence molecules, regulation of bioluminescence, biofilm formation, antibiotic resistance development and motility behavioral responses. In the natural environment, different bacterial species (Gram-positive and Gram-negative) produce QS signaling molecules that are structurally and functionally different. Recent and past research shows that various antagonistic molecules (naturally and chemically synthesized) are characterized to inhibit the formation of biofilm and attenuation of bacterial virulence by blocking the QS receptors. This review article describes about the diverse QS receptors at their structural, functional and production levels. Thus, by blocking these receptors with inhibitory molecules can be a potential therapeutic approach to control pathogenesis. Furthermore, these receptors can also be used as a structural platform to screen the most potent inhibitors with the help of bioinformatics approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazlurrahman Khan
- Marine-Integrated Bionics Research Center, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, South Korea.,Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201306, U.P, India
| | - Aqib Javaid
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201306, U.P, India
| | - Young-Mog Kim
- Marine-Integrated Bionics Research Center, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, South Korea.,Department of Food Science and Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, South Korea
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16
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Zhao S, Chen K, Zhang L, Yang W, Huang D. Sulfonyl Hydrazides in Organic Synthesis: A Review of Recent Studies. Adv Synth Catal 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/adsc.202000466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shuangte Zhao
- Department of ChemistryLishui University Lishui City 323000, Zhejiang Province, P. R. People's Republic of China
| | - Kaijun Chen
- Department of ChemistryLishui University Lishui City 323000, Zhejiang Province, P. R. People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Department of ChemistryLishui University Lishui City 323000, Zhejiang Province, P. R. People's Republic of China
| | - Weiguang Yang
- The Marine Biomedical Research InstituteGuangdong Medical University Zhanjiang 524023, Guangdong Province
| | - Dayun Huang
- Department of ChemistryLishui University Lishui City 323000, Zhejiang Province, P. R. People's Republic of China
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17
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Gordon CP. Synthetic strategies to access staphylococcus auto-inducing peptides as quorum sensing modulators. Org Biomol Chem 2020; 18:379-390. [PMID: 31844862 DOI: 10.1039/c9ob02038a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum-sensing system is arguably the most important regulator of staphylococcus virulence and has been the focus of tremendous interest in the development of effective therapies for pathogenic bacterial infections. With regards to chemotherapeutic based strategies, the significant proportion of currently reported agr-system modulating molecules are mimics of the native ArgC substrate, which is a thioester-based macrocyclic peptide know as the auto-inducing peptide. Over the past two decades, more than two-hundred synthetic analogues have been reported. This review traces the development of the synthetic strategies employed to synthesise these analogues with a particular focus on macrocyclisation. At present these synthetic approaches can be clustered into five broad categories (1) solution-phase cyclisation, (2) immobilised carbodiimide assisted cyclisation, (3) concomitant on-resin cleavage and macrocyclisation, (4) Boc-compatible chemoselective thioesterification, and (5) Fmoc-compatible chemoselective thioesterification. The advantages and limitation provided by each of the approaches are compared and contrasted with a view towards potential reaction scale-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher P Gordon
- School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith South DC, NSW 2751, Australia.
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18
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Vasquez JK, West KHJ, Yang T, Polaske TJ, Cornilescu G, Tonelli M, Blackwell HE. Conformational Switch to a β-Turn in a Staphylococcal Quorum Sensing Signal Peptide Causes a Dramatic Increase in Potency. J Am Chem Soc 2020; 142:750-761. [PMID: 31859506 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.9b05513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
We report the solution-phase structures of native signal peptides and related analogs capable of either strongly agonizing or antagonizing the AgrC quorum sensing (QS) receptor in the emerging pathogen Staphylococcus epidermidis. Chronic S. epidermidis infections are often recalcitrant to traditional therapies due to antibiotic resistance and formation of robust biofilms. The accessory gene regulator (agr) QS system plays an important role in biofilm formation in this opportunistic pathogen, and the binding of an autoinducing peptide (AIP) signal to its cognate transmembrane receptor (AgrC) is responsible for controlling agr. Small molecules or peptides capable of modulating this binding event are of significant interest as probes to investigate both the agr system and QS as a potential antivirulence target. We used NMR spectroscopy to characterize the structures of the three native S. epidermidis AIP signals and five non-native analogs with distinct activity profiles in the AgrC-I receptor from S. epidermidis. These studies revealed a suite of structural motifs critical for ligand activity. Interestingly, a unique β-turn was present in the macrocycles of the two most potent AgrC-I modulators, in both an agonist and an antagonist, which was distinct from the macrocycle conformation in the less-potent AgrC-I modulators and in the native AIP-I itself. This previously unknown β-turn provides a structural rationale for these ligands' respective biological activity profiles. Development of analogs to reinforce the β-turn resulted in our first antagonist with subnanomolar potency in AgrC-I, while analogs designed to contain a disrupted β-turn were dramatically less potent relative to their parent compounds. Collectively, these studies provide new insights into the AIP:AgrC interactions crucial for QS activation in S. epidermidis and advance the understanding of QS at the molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph K Vasquez
- Department of Chemistry , University of Wisconsin-Madison , Madison , Wisconsin 53706 , United States
| | - Korbin H J West
- Department of Chemistry , University of Wisconsin-Madison , Madison , Wisconsin 53706 , United States
| | - Tian Yang
- Department of Chemistry , University of Wisconsin-Madison , Madison , Wisconsin 53706 , United States
| | - Thomas J Polaske
- Department of Chemistry , University of Wisconsin-Madison , Madison , Wisconsin 53706 , United States
| | - Gabriel Cornilescu
- National Magnetic Resonance Facility at Madison , University of Wisconsin-Madison , Madison , Wisconsin 53706 , United States
| | - Marco Tonelli
- National Magnetic Resonance Facility at Madison , University of Wisconsin-Madison , Madison , Wisconsin 53706 , United States
| | - Helen E Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry , University of Wisconsin-Madison , Madison , Wisconsin 53706 , United States
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19
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Brango-Vanegas J, Martinho LA, Bessa LJ, Vasconcelos AG, Plácido A, Pereira AL, Leite JRSA, Machado AHL. Synthesis of novel sulfide-based cyclic peptidomimetic analogues to solonamides. Beilstein J Org Chem 2019; 15:2544-2551. [PMID: 31728168 PMCID: PMC6839570 DOI: 10.3762/bjoc.15.247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Eight new sulfide-based cyclic peptidomimetic analogues of solonamides A and B have been synthesized via solid-phase peptide synthesis and SN2’ reaction on a Morita–Baylis–Hillman (MBH) residue introduced at the N-terminal of a tetrapeptide. This last step takes advantage of the electrophilic feature of the MBH residue and represents a new cyclization strategy occurring. The analogues were prepared in moderate overall yields and did not show toxic effects on Staphylococcus aureus growth and were not toxic to human fibroblasts. Two of them inhibited the hemolytic activity of S. aureus, suggesting an interfering action in the bacterial quorum sensing similar to the one already reported for solonamides.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Brango-Vanegas
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, 70910-900, Asa Norte, Brasília DF, Brasil
| | - Luan A Martinho
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, 70910-900, Asa Norte, Brasília DF, Brasil
| | - Lucinda J Bessa
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bíoquímica, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade do Porto, 4169007, Porto, Portugal
| | - Andreanne G Vasconcelos
- Área de Morfologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, 70910-900, Brasília, DF, Brasil
| | - Alexandra Plácido
- Glial Cell Biology Lab, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, i3S, Universidade do Porto, 420013, Porto, Portugal.,Bioprospectum, Lda, UPTEC, 4200135, Porto, Portugal
| | - Alex L Pereira
- Campus de Ceilândia, Universidade de Brasília, Centro Metropolitano, 72220-275, Ceilândia Sul, Ceilândia, DF, Brazil
| | - José R S A Leite
- Área de Morfologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, 70910-900, Brasília, DF, Brasil
| | - Angelo H L Machado
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, 70910-900, Asa Norte, Brasília DF, Brasil
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20
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Horswill AR, Gordon CP. Structure-Activity Relationship Studies of Small Molecule Modulators of the Staphylococcal Accessory Gene Regulator. J Med Chem 2019; 63:2705-2730. [PMID: 31658413 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b00798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum-sensing system is arguably the most important regulator of Staphylococcus virulence. The agr-system serves a crucial role in pathogenesis by triggering substantive gene expression alterations to up-regulate the production of a wide variety of virulence determinants such as exoenzymes (proteases, lipases, nucleases) and downregulate the expression of surface binding proteins. Accordingly, the agr-system represents a compelling target for the development of antivirulence therapeutics as potential adjuncts, or alternatives, to conventional bactericidal and bacteriostatic antibiotics. Despite this potential, to date, no agr-system inhibitors have progressed to the clinic; however, several promising lead compounds have been identified through screens of synthetic and natural product libraries. On the basis of the molecular components within the agr-system, the current contingent of regulating compounds can be clustered into three broad groups, AgrA-P3 activation inhibitors, AgrB-AgrD processing inhibitors, and AgrC-AIP interaction inhibitors. This review aims to provide an overview of the development, structure-activity-relationships, and limitations of compounds within each of these groups in addition to the current opportunities for developing next-generation anologs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander R Horswill
- Veterans Affairs Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Aurora, Colorado 80045, United States.,Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, United States
| | - Christopher P Gordon
- School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith South DC, NSW 2751, Australia.,Molecular Medicine Research Group, School of Medicine, Westerm Sydney University, Building 30, Campbelltown, NSW 2560, Australia
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21
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Yi J, Zhang D, Cheng Y, Tan J, Luo Y. The impact of Paenibacillus polymyxa HY96-2 luxS on biofilm formation and control of tomato bacterial wilt. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2019; 103:9643-9657. [PMID: 31686149 PMCID: PMC6867978 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-019-10162-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The focus of this study was to investigate the effects of luxS, a key regulatory gene of the autoinducer-2 (AI-2) quorum sensing (QS) system, on the biofilm formation and biocontrol efficacy against Ralstonia solanacearum by Paenibacillus polymyxa HY96-2. luxS mutants were constructed and assayed for biofilm formation of the wild-type (WT) strain and luxS mutants of P. polymyxa HY96-2 in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that luxS positively regulated the biofilm formation of HY96-2. Greenhouse experiments of tomato bacterial wilt found that from the early stage to late stage postinoculation, the biocontrol efficacy of the luxS deletion strain was the lowest with 50.70 ± 1.39% in the late stage. However, the luxS overexpression strain had the highest biocontrol efficacy with 75.66 ± 1.94% in the late stage. The complementation of luxS could restore the biocontrol efficacy of the luxS deletion strain with 69.84 ± 1.09% in the late stage, which was higher than that of the WT strain with 65.94 ± 2.73%. Therefore, we deduced that luxS could promote the biofilm formation of P. polymyxa HY96-2 and further promoted its biocontrol efficacy against R. solanacearum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jincui Yi
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Daojing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Yuejuan Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Jingjing Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Yuanchan Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.
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22
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Peng P, Baldry M, Gless BH, Bojer MS, Espinosa-Gongora C, Baig SJ, Andersen PS, Olsen CA, Ingmer H. Effect of Co-inhabiting Coagulase Negative Staphylococci on S. aureus agr Quorum Sensing, Host Factor Binding, and Biofilm Formation. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:2212. [PMID: 31611856 PMCID: PMC6777374 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a commensal colonizer of both humans and animals, but also an opportunistic pathogen responsible for a multitude of diseases. In recent years, colonization of pigs by methicillin resistant S. aureus has become a problem with increasing numbers of humans being infected by livestock strains. In S. aureus colonization and virulence factor expression is controlled by the agr quorum sensing system, which responds to and is activated by self-generated, autoinducing peptides (AIPs). AIPs are also produced by coagulase negative staphylococci (CoNS) commonly found as commensals in both humans and animals, and interestingly, some of these inhibit S. aureus agr activity. Here, we have addressed if cross-communication occurs between S. aureus and CoNS strains isolated from pig nares, and if so, how properties such as host factor binding and biofilm formation are affected. From 25 pig nasal swabs we obtained 54 staphylococcal CoNS isolates belonging to 8 different species. Of these, none were able to induce S. aureus agr as monitored by reporter gene fusions to agr regulated genes but a number of agr-inhibiting species were identified including Staphylococcus hyicus, Staphylococcus simulans, Staphylococcus arlettae, Staphylococcus lentus, and Staphylococcus chromogenes. After establishing that the inhibitory activity was mediated via AgrC, the receptor of AIPs, we synthesized selective AIPs to explore their effect on adhesion of S. aureus to fibronectin, a host factor involved in S. aureus colonization. Here, we found that the CoNS AIPs did not affect adhesion of S. aureus except for strain 8325-4. When individual CoNS strains were co-cultured together with S. aureus we observed variable degrees of biofilm formation which did not correlate with agr interactions. Our results show that multiple CoNS species can be isolated from pig nares and that the majority of these produce AIPs that inhibit S. aureus agr. Further they show that the consequences of the interactions between CoNS and S. aureus are complex and highly strain dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pai Peng
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mara Baldry
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bengt H Gless
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin S Bojer
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Carmen Espinosa-Gongora
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sharmin J Baig
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Paal S Andersen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christian A Olsen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne Ingmer
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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23
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Analysis of the influence of cyclo (L-phenylalanine-L-proline) on the proteome of Staphylococcus aureus using iTRAQ. ANN MICROBIOL 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s13213-019-01508-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
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24
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Vasquez JK, Blackwell HE. Simplified Autoinducing Peptide Mimetics with Single-Nanomolar Activity Against the Staphylococcus aureus AgrC Quorum Sensing Receptor. ACS Infect Dis 2019; 5:484-492. [PMID: 30817121 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.9b00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections worldwide, and cases of community-acquired infections are becoming more prevalent. The production of numerous virulence factors in S. aureus is under the control of the accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum sensing (QS) system. S. aureus upregulates agr at high cell density by secreting a peptide pheromone, or autoinducing peptide (AIP), which is detected by its cognate transmembrane receptor, AgrC. The extracellular AIP binding site of AgrC represents an attractive target for inhibition of the agr system and, thereby, QS-controlled virulence in S. aureus. Nonnative peptides and, more recently, peptidomimetics have been reported to inhibit the AgrC receptor and represent useful chemical tools to study the role of QS in S. aureus infections. We seek to expand beyond peptide-like scaffolds to generate AgrC modulators with enhanced stability, solubility, and synthetic accessibility relative to these compounds, while maintaining their high potencies. Toward this goal, we report herein a study of the structure-activity relationships responsible for the activity of a recently reported simplified AIP mimetic and AgrC antagonist, n7OFF, and the discovery of a new AIP mimetic, Bnc3, which has low- to sub-nanomolar inhibitory activity in all four S. aureus agr specificity groups. NMR structural studies of Bnc3 revealed hydrophobic and hydrophilic faces that are likely critical for AgrC antagonism, in agreement with prior studies of peptide-derived inhibitors. Bnc3 represents an important transition compound toward the development of small-molecule AgrC antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph K. Vasquez
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin−Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Helen E. Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin−Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
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25
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Cosgriff CJ, White CR, Teoh WP, Grayczyk JP, Alonzo F. Control of Staphylococcus aureus Quorum Sensing by a Membrane-Embedded Peptidase. Infect Immun 2019; 87:e00019-19. [PMID: 30833334 PMCID: PMC6479040 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00019-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Gram-positive bacteria process and release small peptides, or pheromones, that act as signals for the induction of adaptive traits, including those involved in pathogenesis. One class of small signaling pheromones is the cyclic autoinducing peptides (AIPs), which regulate expression of genes that orchestrate virulence and persistence in a range of microbes, including staphylococci, listeriae, clostridia, and enterococci. In a genetic screen for Staphylococcus aureus secreted virulence factors, we identified an S. aureus mutant containing an insertion in the gene SAUSA300_1984 (mroQ), which encodes a putative membrane-embedded metalloprotease. A ΔmroQ mutant exhibited impaired induction of Toll-like receptor 2-dependent inflammatory responses from macrophages but elicited greater production of the inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β and was attenuated in a murine skin and soft tissue infection model. The ΔmroQ mutant phenocopies an S. aureus mutant containing a deletion of the accessory gene regulatory system (Agr), wherein both strains have significantly reduced production of secreted toxins and virulence factors but increased surface protein A abundance. The Agr system controls virulence factor gene expression in S. aureus by sensing the accumulation of AIP via the histidine kinase AgrC and the response regulator AgrA. We provide evidence to suggest that MroQ acts within the Agr pathway to facilitate the optimal processing or export of AIP for signal amplification through AgrC/A and induction of virulence factor gene expression. Mutation of MroQ active-site residues significantly reduces AIP signaling and attenuates virulence. Altogether, this work identifies a new component of the Agr quorum-sensing circuit that is critical for the production of S. aureus virulence factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chance J Cosgriff
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - Chelsea R White
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - Wei Ping Teoh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - James P Grayczyk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - Francis Alonzo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois, USA
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Lakemeyer M, Zhao W, Mandl FA, Hammann P, Sieber SA. Thinking Outside the Box-Novel Antibacterials To Tackle the Resistance Crisis. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2018; 57:14440-14475. [PMID: 29939462 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201804971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The public view on antibiotics as reliable medicines changed when reports about "resistant superbugs" appeared in the news. While reasons for this resistance development are easily spotted, solutions for re-establishing effective antibiotics are still in their infancy. This Review encompasses several aspects of the antibiotic development pipeline from very early strategies to mature drugs. An interdisciplinary overview is given of methods suitable for mining novel antibiotics and strategies discussed to unravel their modes of action. Select examples of antibiotics recently identified by using these platforms not only illustrate the efficiency of these measures, but also highlight promising clinical candidates with therapeutic potential. Furthermore, the concept of molecules that disarm pathogens by addressing gatekeepers of virulence will be covered. The Review concludes with an evaluation of antibacterials currently in clinical development. Overall, this Review aims to connect select innovative antimicrobial approaches to stimulate interdisciplinary partnerships between chemists from academia and industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Lakemeyer
- Department of Chemistry, Chair of Organic Chemistry II, Center for Integrated Protein Science (CIPSM), Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85747, Garching, Germany
| | - Weining Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, Chair of Organic Chemistry II, Center for Integrated Protein Science (CIPSM), Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85747, Garching, Germany
| | - Franziska A Mandl
- Department of Chemistry, Chair of Organic Chemistry II, Center for Integrated Protein Science (CIPSM), Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85747, Garching, Germany
| | - Peter Hammann
- R&D Therapeutic Area Infectious Diseases, Sanofi-Aventis (Deutschland) GmbH, Industriepark Höchst, 65926, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stephan A Sieber
- Department of Chemistry, Chair of Organic Chemistry II, Center for Integrated Protein Science (CIPSM), Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85747, Garching, Germany
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27
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Lakemeyer M, Zhao W, Mandl FA, Hammann P, Sieber SA. Über bisherige Denkweisen hinaus - neue Wirkstoffe zur Überwindung der Antibiotika-Krise. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201804971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Markus Lakemeyer
- Fakultät für Chemie; Lehrstuhl für Organische Chemie II, Center for Integrated Protein Science (CIPSM); Technische Universität München; Lichtenbergstraße 4 85747 Garching Deutschland
| | - Weining Zhao
- Fakultät für Chemie; Lehrstuhl für Organische Chemie II, Center for Integrated Protein Science (CIPSM); Technische Universität München; Lichtenbergstraße 4 85747 Garching Deutschland
| | - Franziska A. Mandl
- Fakultät für Chemie; Lehrstuhl für Organische Chemie II, Center for Integrated Protein Science (CIPSM); Technische Universität München; Lichtenbergstraße 4 85747 Garching Deutschland
| | - Peter Hammann
- R&D Therapeutic Area Infectious Diseases; Sanofi-Aventis (Deutschland) GmbH; Industriepark Höchst 65926 Frankfurt am Main Deutschland
| | - Stephan A. Sieber
- Fakultät für Chemie; Lehrstuhl für Organische Chemie II, Center for Integrated Protein Science (CIPSM); Technische Universität München; Lichtenbergstraße 4 85747 Garching Deutschland
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28
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Mooney JA, Pridgen EM, Manasherob R, Suh G, Blackwell HE, Barron AE, Bollyky PL, Goodman SB, Amanatullah DF. Periprosthetic bacterial biofilm and quorum sensing. J Orthop Res 2018; 36:2331-2339. [PMID: 29663554 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a common complication after total joint arthroplasty leading to severe morbidity and mortality. With an aging population and increasing prevalence of total joint replacement procedures, the burden of PJI will be felt not only by individual patients, but in increased healthcare costs. Current treatment of PJI is inadequate resulting in incredibly high failure rates. This is believed to be largely mediated by the presence of bacterial biofilms. These polymicrobial bacterial colonies form within secreted extracellular matrices, adhering to the implant surface and local tissue. The biofilm architecture is believed to play a complex and critical role in a variety of bacterial processes including nutrient supplementation, metabolism, waste management, and antibiotic and immune resistance. The establishment of these biofilms relies heavily on the quorum sensing communication systems utilized by bacteria. Early stage research into disrupting bacterial communication by targeting quorum sensing show promise for future clinical applications. However, prevention of the biofilm formation via early forced induction of the biofilm forming process remains yet unexplored. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2331-2339, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake A Mooney
- Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Eric M Pridgen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Robert Manasherob
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford Hospitals and Clinics, Broadway Street, Redwood City, Stanford 94063, California
| | - Gina Suh
- Department of Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Helen E Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Annelise E Barron
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Paul L Bollyky
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Stuart B Goodman
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford Hospitals and Clinics, Broadway Street, Redwood City, Stanford 94063, California
| | - Derek F Amanatullah
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford Hospitals and Clinics, Broadway Street, Redwood City, Stanford 94063, California
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29
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Mull RW, Harrington A, Sanchez LA, Tal-Gan Y. Cyclic Peptides that Govern Signal Transduction Pathways: From Prokaryotes to Multi-Cellular Organisms. Curr Top Med Chem 2018; 18:625-644. [PMID: 29773060 DOI: 10.2174/1568026618666180518090705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Revised: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic peptide scaffolds are key components of signal transduction pathways in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms since they act as chemical messengers that activate or inhibit specific cognate receptors. In prokaryotic organisms these peptides are utilized in non-essential pathways, such as quorum sensing, that are responsible for virulence and pathogenicity. In the more evolved eukaryotic systems, cyclic peptide hormones play a key role in the regulation of the overall function of multicellular organisms, mainly through the endocrine system. This review will highlight several prokaryote and eukaryote systems that use cyclic peptides as their primary signals and the potential associated with utilizing these scaffolds for the discovery of novel therapeutics for a wide range of diseases and illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan W Mull
- Department of Chemistry, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, United States
| | - Anthony Harrington
- Department of Chemistry, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, United States
| | - Lucia A Sanchez
- Department of Chemistry, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, United States
| | - Yftah Tal-Gan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, United States
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30
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Karathanasi G, Bojer MS, Baldry M, Johannessen BA, Wolff S, Greco I, Kilstrup M, Hansen PR, Ingmer H. Linear peptidomimetics as potent antagonists of Staphylococcus aureus agr quorum sensing. Sci Rep 2018; 8:3562. [PMID: 29476092 PMCID: PMC5824847 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-21951-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is an important pathogen causing infections in humans and animals. Increasing problems with antimicrobial resistance has prompted the development of alternative treatment strategies, including antivirulence approaches targeting virulence regulation such as the agr quorum sensing system. agr is naturally induced by cyclic auto-inducing peptides (AIPs) binding to the AgrC receptor and cyclic peptide inhibitors have been identified competing with AIP binding to AgrC. Here, we disclose that small, linear peptidomimetics can act as specific and potent inhibitors of the S. aureus agr system via intercepting AIP-AgrC signal interaction at low micromolar concentrations. The corresponding linear peptide did not have this ability. This is the first report of a linear peptide-like molecule that interferes with agr activation by competitive binding to AgrC. Prospectively, these peptidomimetics may be valuable starting scaffolds for the development of new inhibitors of staphylococcal quorum sensing and virulence gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Karathanasi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Stigbøjlen 4, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Martin Saxtorph Bojer
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Stigbøjlen 4, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Mara Baldry
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Stigbøjlen 4, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Bárdur Andréson Johannessen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Stigbøjlen 4, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Sanne Wolff
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Stigbøjlen 4, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Ines Greco
- Department of Drug Design and Farmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, København, Denmark
| | - Mogens Kilstrup
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Metabolic Signaling and Regulation, Technical University of Denmark, Matematiktorvet, 2800, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Paul Robert Hansen
- Department of Drug Design and Farmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, København, Denmark
| | - Hanne Ingmer
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Stigbøjlen 4, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark.
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31
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Tan L, Li SR, Jiang B, Hu XM, Li S. Therapeutic Targeting of the Staphylococcus aureus Accessory Gene Regulator ( agr) System. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:55. [PMID: 29422887 PMCID: PMC5789755 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus can cause numerous different diseases, which has been attributed to its large repertoire of virulence factors, many of which are under the control of the accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum sensing system. Under conditions of high cell density, agr increases the production of many virulence factors, decreases expression of several colonization factors, and is intimately associated with the pathogenesis and biofilm formation of S. aureus. This review summarizes our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying agr quorum sensing and the regulation of agr expression. The discussion also examines subgroups of agr and their association with different diseases, and concludes with an analysis of strategies for designing drugs and vaccines that target agr to combat S. aureus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Tan
- Department of Microbiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Si Rui Li
- Department of Microbiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bei Jiang
- Department of Microbiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao Mei Hu
- Department of Microbiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shu Li
- Department of Microbiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
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32
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Gless BH, Peng P, Pedersen KD, Gotfredsen CH, Ingmer H, Olsen CA. Structure-Activity Relationship Study Based on Autoinducing Peptide (AIP) from Dog Pathogen S. schleiferi. Org Lett 2017; 19:5276-5279. [PMID: 28952740 DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.7b02550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Herein, an effective protocol for solid-phase synthesis of peptide thiolactones by concomitant ring closure and cleavage from the solid support is reported. The strategy was applied for mapping the importance of the structural features in S. schleiferi AIP (5) by performing an alanine scan and truncation of this natural compound. This furnished some of the most potent inhibitors of accessory gene regulator (agr)-I in the human pathogen S. aureus reported to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bengt H Gless
- Center for Biopharmaceuticals and Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pai Peng
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Katja D Pedersen
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark , Kemitorvet 207, Kgs. Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Charlotte H Gotfredsen
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark , Kemitorvet 207, Kgs. Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Hanne Ingmer
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Christian A Olsen
- Center for Biopharmaceuticals and Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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33
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Tsuchikama K, Shimamoto Y, Anami Y. Truncated Autoinducing Peptide Conjugates Selectively Recognize and Kill Staphylococcus aureus. ACS Infect Dis 2017; 3:406-410. [PMID: 28155275 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.7b00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The accessory gene regulator (agr) of Staphylococcus aureus coordinates various pathogenic events and is recognized as a promising therapeutic target for virulence control. S. aureus utilizes autoinducing peptides (AIPs), cyclic-peptide signaling molecules, to mediate the agr system. Despite the high potency of synthetic AIP analogues in agr inhibition, the potential of AIP molecules as a delivery vehicle for antibacterial agents remains unexplored. Herein, we report that truncated AIP scaffolds can be fused with fluorophore and cytotoxic photosensitizer molecules without compromising their high agr inhibitory activity, binding affinity to the receptor AgrC, or cell specificity. Strikingly, a photosensitizer-AIP conjugate exhibited 16-fold greater efficacy in a S. aureus cell-killing assay than a nontargeting analogue. These findings highlight the potential of truncated AIP conjugates as useful chemical tools for in-depth biological studies and as effective anti-S. aureus agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoji Tsuchikama
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown
Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 1881 East Road, Houston, Texas 77054, United States
| | - Yasuhiro Shimamoto
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown
Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 1881 East Road, Houston, Texas 77054, United States
| | - Yasuaki Anami
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown
Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 1881 East Road, Houston, Texas 77054, United States
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34
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Canovas J, Baldry M, Bojer MS, Andersen PS, Grzeskowiak PK, Stegger M, Damborg P, Olsen CA, Ingmer H. Corrigendum: Cross-Talk between Staphylococcus aureus and Other Staphylococcal Species via the agr Quorum Sensing System. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:1075. [PMID: 28607550 PMCID: PMC5463500 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.01075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
[This corrects the article on p. 1733 in vol. 7, PMID: 27877157.].
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Canovas
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenFrederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Mara Baldry
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenFrederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Martin S Bojer
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenFrederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Paal S Andersen
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenFrederiksberg, Denmark.,Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum InstitutCopenhagen, Denmark
| | - Piotr K Grzeskowiak
- Center for Biopharmaceuticals and Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenCopenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marc Stegger
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, Statens Serum InstitutCopenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Damborg
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenFrederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Christian A Olsen
- Center for Biopharmaceuticals and Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenCopenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne Ingmer
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenFrederiksberg, Denmark
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35
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Vasquez JK, Tal-Gan Y, Cornilescu G, Tyler KA, Blackwell HE. Simplified AIP-II Peptidomimetics Are Potent Inhibitors of Staphylococcus aureus AgrC Quorum Sensing Receptors. Chembiochem 2017; 18:413-423. [PMID: 28006082 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201600516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The bacterial pathogen Staphylococcus aureus controls many aspects of virulence by using the accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum sensing (QS) system. The agr system is activated by a macrocyclic peptide signal known as an autoinducing peptide (AIP). We sought to develop structurally simplified mimetics of AIPs for use as chemical tools to study QS in S. aureus. Herein, we report new peptidomimetic AgrC receptor inhibitors based on a tail-truncated AIP-II peptide that have almost analogous inhibitory activities to the parent peptide. Structural comparison of one of these peptidomimetics to the parent peptide and a highly potent, all-peptide-derived, S. aureus agr inhibitor (AIP-III D4A) revealed a conserved hydrophobic motif and overall amphipathic nature. Our results suggest that the AIP scaffold is amenable to structural mimicry and minimization for the development of synthetic agr inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph K Vasquez
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Yftah Tal-Gan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.,Present address: Department of Chemistry, University of Nevada, 1664 N. Virginia Street, Reno, NV, 89557, USA
| | - Gabriel Cornilescu
- National Magnetic Resonance Facility at Madison, University of Wisconsin, 433 Babcock Drive, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Kimberly A Tyler
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Helen E Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
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36
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Wang B, Muir TW. Regulation of Virulence in Staphylococcus aureus: Molecular Mechanisms and Remaining Puzzles. Cell Chem Biol 2016; 23:214-224. [PMID: 26971873 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2016.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Revised: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The agr locus encodes a quorum-sensing (QS) circuit required for the virulence of a spectrum of Gram-positive pathogens and is, therefore, regarded as an important target for the development of chemotherapeutics. In recent years, many of the biochemical events in the Staphylococcus aureus agr circuit have been reconstituted and subject to quantitative analysis in vitro. This work, in conjunction with structural studies on several key players in the signaling circuit, has furnished mechanistic insights into the regulation and evolution of the agr QS system. Here, we review this progress and discuss the remaining open questions in the area. We also highlight advances in the discovery of small-molecule agr modulators and how the newly available biochemical and structural information might be leveraged for the design of next-generation therapeutics targeting the agr system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyuan Wang
- Frick Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA; Graduate Program, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Tom W Muir
- Frick Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
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37
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Gordon CP, Olson SD, Lister JL, Kavanaugh JS, Horswill AR. Truncated Autoinducing Peptides as Antagonists of Staphylococcus lugdunensis Quorum Sensing. J Med Chem 2016; 59:8879-8888. [PMID: 27585401 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.6b00727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Competitive quorum sensing (QS) antagonism offers a novel strategy for attenuating current multidrug resistant staphylococcal infections. To this end, a series of 10 truncated analogues based on the parent autoinducing peptides (AIPs) of Staphylococcus lugdunensis (groups I and II) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (groups I-III) were sequentially assessed against a newly developed Staphylococcus lugdunensis group I QS reporter strain. The truncated analogues based upon Staphylococcus lugdunensis AIP-1 (1) and AIP-2 (2) displayed respective IC50 values of 0.2 ± 0.01 μM and 0.3 ± 0.01 μM, while the truncated analogue of the Staphylococcus epidermidis AIP-1 (3) elicited an IC50 value of 2.7 ± 0.1 μM. These findings demonstrate the potential of cognate and "crosstalk" competitive quorum sensing inhibition using truncated AIPs as a means of attenuating staphylococcal infections in species beyond Staphylococcus aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher P Gordon
- School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University , Locked Bag 1797, Penrith South Dc, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Shondra D Olson
- Department of Microbiology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Jessica L Lister
- Department of Microbiology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Jeffrey S Kavanaugh
- Department of Microbiology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Alexander R Horswill
- Department of Microbiology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa , Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
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38
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Tal-Gan Y, Ivancic M, Cornilescu G, Yang T, Blackwell HE. Highly Stable, Amide-Bridged Autoinducing Peptide Analogues that Strongly Inhibit the AgrC Quorum Sensing Receptor in Staphylococcus aureus. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016; 55:8913-7. [PMID: 27276693 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201602974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Blocking quorum sensing (QS) pathways has attracted considerable interest as an approach to suppress virulence in bacterial pathogens. Toward this goal, we recently developed analogues of a native autoinducing peptide (AIP-III) signal that can inhibit AgrC-type QS receptors and attenuate virulence phenotypes in Staphylococcus aureus. Application of these compounds is limited, however, as they contain hydrolytically unstable thioester linkages and have only low aqueous solubilities. Herein, we report amide-linked AIP analogues with greatly enhanced hydrolytic stabilities and solubilities relative to our prior analogues, whilst maintaining strong potencies as AgrC receptor inhibitors in S. aureus. These compounds represent powerful tools for the study of QS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yftah Tal-Gan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Current address: Department of Chemistry, University of Nevada, Reno, 1664 N. Virginia St., Reno, NV, 89557, USA
| | - Monika Ivancic
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI, 53706, USA
- Current address: Department of Chemistry, University of Vermont, 82 University Pl., Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Gabriel Cornilescu
- National Magnetic Resonance Facility, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 433 Babcock Dr., Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Tian Yang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Helen E Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI, 53706, USA.
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39
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Tal-Gan Y, Ivancic M, Cornilescu G, Yang T, Blackwell HE. Highly Stable, Amide-Bridged Autoinducing Peptide Analogues that Strongly Inhibit the AgrC Quorum Sensing Receptor inStaphylococcus aureus. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201602974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yftah Tal-Gan
- Department of Chemistry; University of Wisconsin-Madison; 1101 University Ave. Madison WI 53706 USA
- Current address: Department of Chemistry; University of Nevada, Reno; 1664 N. Virginia St. Reno NV 89557 USA
| | - Monika Ivancic
- Department of Chemistry; University of Wisconsin-Madison; 1101 University Ave. Madison WI 53706 USA
- Current address: Department of Chemistry; University of Vermont; 82 University Pl. Burlington VT 05405 USA
| | - Gabriel Cornilescu
- National Magnetic Resonance Facility; University of Wisconsin-Madison; 433 Babcock Dr. Madison WI 53706 USA
| | - Tian Yang
- Department of Chemistry; University of Wisconsin-Madison; 1101 University Ave. Madison WI 53706 USA
| | - Helen E. Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry; University of Wisconsin-Madison; 1101 University Ave. Madison WI 53706 USA
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