1
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York E, McNaughton DA, Gertner DS, Gale PA, Murray M, Rawling T. Expanding the π-system of Fatty Acid-Anion Transporter Conjugates Modulates Their Mechanism of Proton Transport and Mitochondrial Uncoupling Activity. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202400931. [PMID: 38838073 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202400931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondrial uncoupling by small molecule protonophores is a promising strategy for developing novel anticancer agents. Recently, aryl urea substituted fatty acids (aryl ureas) were identified as a new class of protonophoric anticancer agents. To mediate proton transport these molecules self-assemble into membrane-permeable anionic dimers in which intermolecular hydrogen bonds between the carboxylate and aryl-urea anion receptor delocalise the negative charge across the aromatic π-system. In this work, we extend the aromatic π-system by introducing a second phenyl substituent to the aryl urea scaffold and compare the proton transport mechanisms and mitochondrial uncoupling actions of these compounds to their monoaryl analogues. It was found that incorporation of meta-linked phenyl substituents into the aryl urea scaffold enhanced proton transport in vesicles and demonstrated superior capacity to depolarise mitochondria, inhibit ATP production and reduce the viability of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. In contrast, diphenyl ureas linked through a 1,4-distribution across the phenyl ring displayed diminished proton transport activity, despite both diphenyl urea isomers possessing similar binding affinities for carboxylates. Mechanistic studies suggest that inclusion of a second aryl ring changes the proton transport mechanism, presumably due to steric factors that impose higher energy penalties for dimer formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward York
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Daniel A McNaughton
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - David S Gertner
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Philip A Gale
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Michael Murray
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, 2113, Australia
| | - Tristan Rawling
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
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2
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Elmaghrabi YA, Roseblade A, Rahman K, Rawling T, Murray M. Carbon Chain Length in a Novel Anticancer Aryl-Urea Fatty Acid Modulates Mitochondrial Targeting, Reactive Oxygen Species Production and Cell Killing. ChemMedChem 2024:e202400281. [PMID: 38945837 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202400281] [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: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
The cancer cell mitochondrion could be a promising target for the development of new anticancer agents. 16-([3-chloro-5-(trifluoromethyl)-phenyl]carbamoylamino)hexadecanoic acid (2) is a novel aryl-urea fatty acid that targets the mitochondrion in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and activates cell death. In the present study, the relationships between alkyl chain length in 2 analogues, mitochondrial disruption and cell killing were evaluated. The chain-contracted C13-analogue 7 c optimally disrupted the mitochondrial membrane potential (IC50 4.8±0.8 μM). In addition, annexin V-FITC/7-AAD assays demonstrated that 7 c was the most effective cell killing analogue and C11 BODIPY (581/591) assays demonstrated that 7 c was also most effective in generating reactive oxygen species in MDA-MB-231 cells. Together, carbon chain length is a key factor that determines the capacity of 2 analogues to disrupt the mitochondrial membrane, induce the production of reactive oxygen species and kill breast cancer cells. As an aryl-urea with enhanced activity and improved drug-like properties, 7 c may be a suitable lead molecule for entry into a program of development of these molecules as anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin A Elmaghrabi
- Discipline of Pharmacology and Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Ariane Roseblade
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Khalilur Rahman
- Discipline of Pharmacology and Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Tristan Rawling
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Michael Murray
- Discipline of Pharmacology and Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW, 2006, Australia
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3
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Murray M. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid derived lipid mediators: a comprehensive update on their application in anti-cancer drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2024; 19:617-629. [PMID: 38595031 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2024.2340493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION ω-3 Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have a range of health benefits, including anticancer activity, and are converted to lipid mediators that could be adapted into pharmacological strategies. However, the stability of these mediators must be improved, and they may require formulation to achieve optimal tissue concentrations. AREAS COVERED Herein, the author reviews the literature around chemical stabilization and formulation of ω-3 PUFA mediators and their application in anticancer drug discovery. EXPERT OPINION Aryl-urea bioisosteres of ω-3 PUFA epoxides that killed cancer cells targeted the mitochondrion by a novel dual mechanism: as protonophoric uncouplers and as inhibitors of electron transport complex III that activated ER-stress and disrupted mitochondrial integrity. In contrast, aryl-ureas that contain electron-donating substituents prevented cancer cell migration. Thus, aryl-ureas represent a novel class of agents with tunable anticancer properties. Stabilized analogues of other ω-3 PUFA-derived mediators could also be adapted into anticancer strategies. Indeed, a cocktail of agents that simultaneously promote cell killing, inhibit metastasis and angiogenesis, and that attenuate the pro-inflammatory microenvironment is a novel future anticancer strategy. Such regimen may enhance anticancer drug efficacy, minimize the development of anticancer drug resistance and enhance outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Murray
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
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4
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Bandy R, Shahi S, Quagraine N, Shahbazi Nia S, Howlader MSI, Srivenugopal K, Stephan C, Das H, Mikelis CM, German NA. Mechanistic Aspects of Biphenyl Urea-Based Analogues in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cell Lines. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:120-136. [PMID: 38230276 PMCID: PMC10789150 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00193] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) poses significant challenges due to its aggressive nature and limited treatment options. In this study, we investigated the impact of urea-based compounds on TNBC cells to uncover their mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential. Notably, polypharmacology urea analogues were found to work via p53-related pathways, and their cytotoxic effects were amplified by the modulation of oxidative phosphorylation pathways in the mitochondria of cancer cells. Specifically, compound 1 demonstrated an uncoupling effect on adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, leading to a time- and concentration-dependent shift toward glycolysis-based ATP production in MDA-MB-231 cells. At the same time, no significant changes in ATP synthesis were observed in noncancerous MCF10A cells. Moreover, the unique combination of mitochondrial- and p53-related effects leads to a higher cytotoxicity of urea analogues in cancer cells. Notably, the majority of tested clinical agents, but sorafenib, showed significantly higher toxicity in MCF10A cells. To test our hypothesis of sensitizing cancer cells to the treatment via modulation of mitochondrial health, we explored the combinatorial effects of urea-based analogues with established chemotherapeutic agents commonly used in TNBC treatment. Synergistic effects were evident in most tested combinations in TNBC cell lines, while noncancerous MCF10A cells exhibited higher resistance to these combination treatments. The combination of compound 1 with SN38 displayed nearly 60-fold selectivity toward TNBC cells over MCF10A cells. Encouragingly, combinations involving compound 1 restored the sensitivity of TNBC cells to cisplatin. In conclusion, our study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of action of urea-based compounds in TNBC cells. The observed induction of mitochondrial membrane depolarization, inhibition of superoxide dismutase activity, disruption of ATP synthesis, and cell-line-specific responses contribute to their cytotoxic effects. Additionally, we demonstrated the synergistic potential of compound 1 to enhance the efficacy of existing TNBC treatments. However, the therapeutic potential and underlying molecular mechanisms of urea-based analogues in TNBC cell lines require further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayna Bandy
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas 79430, United States
| | - Sadisna Shahi
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas 79430, United States
| | - Naana Quagraine
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas 79430, United States
| | - Siavash Shahbazi Nia
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas 79430, United States
| | - Md Sariful Islam Howlader
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas 79430, United States
| | - Kalkunte Srivenugopal
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas 79430, United States
| | - Clifford Stephan
- Institute
of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M
University, Houston, Texas 79106, United States
- Department
of Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
| | - Hiranmoy Das
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas 79430, United States
| | - Constantinos M. Mikelis
- Laboratory
of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, University of Patras, Patras 26504, Greece
| | - Nadezhda A. German
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas 79430, United States
- Center
of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas 79430, United States
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5
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Gureev AP, Alimova AA, Silachev DN, Plotnikov EY. Noncoupled Mitochondrial Respiration as Therapeutic Approach for the Treatment of Metabolic Diseases: Focus on Transgenic Animal Models. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16491. [PMID: 38003681 PMCID: PMC10671337 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to numerous chronic diseases, and mitochondria are targets for various toxins and xenobiotics. Therefore, the development of drugs or therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondria is an important task in modern medicine. It is well known that the primary, although not the sole, function of mitochondria is ATP generation, which is achieved by coupled respiration. However, a high membrane potential can lead to uncontrolled reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and associated dysfunction. For over 50 years, scientists have been studying various synthetic uncouplers, and for more than 30 years, uncoupling proteins that are responsible for uncoupled respiration in mitochondria. Additionally, the proteins of the mitochondrial alternative respiratory pathway exist in plant mitochondria, allowing noncoupled respiration, in which electron flow is not associated with membrane potential formation. Over the past two decades, advances in genetic engineering have facilitated the creation of various cellular and animal models that simulate the effects of uncoupled and noncoupled respiration in different tissues under various disease conditions. In this review, we summarize and discuss the findings obtained from these transgenic models. We focus on the advantages and limitations of transgenic organisms, the observed physiological and biochemical changes, and the therapeutic potential of uncoupled and noncoupled respiration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artem P. Gureev
- Department of Genetics, Cytology and Bioengineering, Voronezh State University, 394018 Voronezh, Russia; (A.P.G.); (A.A.A.)
- Laboratory of Metagenomics and Food Biotechnology, Voronezh State University of Engineering Technologies, 394036 Voronezh, Russia
| | - Alina A. Alimova
- Department of Genetics, Cytology and Bioengineering, Voronezh State University, 394018 Voronezh, Russia; (A.P.G.); (A.A.A.)
- Laboratory of Metagenomics and Food Biotechnology, Voronezh State University of Engineering Technologies, 394036 Voronezh, Russia
| | - Denis N. Silachev
- A.N. Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Egor Y. Plotnikov
- A.N. Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia;
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6
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Mondal A, Ahmad M, Mondal D, Talukdar P. Progress and prospects toward supramolecular bioactive ion transporters. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:1917-1938. [PMID: 36691926 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc06761g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The majority of cellular physiological processes depend on natural ion channels, which are pore-forming membrane-embedded proteins that let ions flow across the cell membranes selectively. This selective movement of ions across the membranes balances the osmolality within and outside the cell. However, mutations in the genes that encode essential membrane transport proteins or structural reorganisation of these proteins can cause life-threatening diseases like cystic fibrosis. Artificial ion transport systems have opened up a way to replace dysfunctional natural ion channels to cure such diseases through channel replacement therapy. Moreover, recent research has also demonstrated the ability of these systems to kill cancer cells, reigniting interest in the field among scientists. Our contributions to the recent progress in the design and development of artificial chloride ion transporters and their effect on biological systems have been discussed in this review. This review would provide current vistas and future directions toward the development of novel ion transporters with improved biocompatibility and desired anti-cancer properties. Additionally, it strongly emphasises stimuli-responsive ion transport systems, which are crucial for obtaining target-specificity and may speed up the application of these systems in clinical therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Mondal
- Chemistry Department, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune 411008, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Manzoor Ahmad
- Chemistry Department, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune 411008, Maharashtra, India. .,Chemistry Research Laboratory, Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, UK
| | - Debashis Mondal
- Chemistry Department, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune 411008, Maharashtra, India. .,Faculty of Chemistry, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Zwirkii Wigury 101, Warsaw 02-089, Poland
| | - Pinaki Talukdar
- Chemistry Department, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune 411008, Maharashtra, India.
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7
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Rahman MK, Umashankar B, Choucair H, Pazderka C, Bourget K, Chen Y, Dunstan CR, Rawling T, Murray M. Inclusion of the in-chain sulfur in 3-thiaCTU increases the efficiency of mitochondrial targeting and cell killing by anticancer aryl-urea fatty acids. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 939:175470. [PMID: 36543287 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175470] [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: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria in tumor cells are functionally different from those in normal cells and could be targeted to develop new anticancer agents. We showed recently that the aryl-ureido fatty acid CTU is the prototype of a new class of mitochondrion-targeted agents that kill cancer cells by increasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), activating endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-stress and promoting apoptosis. However, prolonged treatment with high doses of CTU were required for in vivo anti-tumor activity. Thus, new strategies are now required to produce agents that have enhanced anticancer activity over CTU. In the present study we prepared a novel aryl-urea termed 3-thiaCTU, that contained an in-chain sulfur heteroatom, for evaluation in tumor cell lines and in mice carrying tumor xenografts. The principal finding to emerge was that 3-thiaCTU was several-fold more active than CTU in the activation of aryl-urea mechanisms that promoted cancer cell killing. Thus, in in vitro studies 3-thiaCTU disrupted the mitochondrial membrane potential, increased ROS production, activated ER-stress and promoted tumor cell apoptosis more effectively than CTU. 3-ThiaCTU was also significantly more active than CTUin vivo in mice that carried MDA-MB-231 cell xenografts. Compared to CTU, 3-thiaCTU prevented tumor growth more effectively and at much lower doses. These findings indicate that, in comparison to CTU, 3-thiaCTU is an aryl-urea with markedly enhanced activity that could now be suitable for development as a novel anticancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Khalilur Rahman
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, and School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Balasubrahmanyam Umashankar
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, and School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Hassan Choucair
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, and School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Curtis Pazderka
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, New South Wales, 2007, Australia
| | - Kirsi Bourget
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, and School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Yongjuan Chen
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, and School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia; Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Research Unit, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Colin R Dunstan
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Research Unit, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Tristan Rawling
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, New South Wales, 2007, Australia
| | - Michael Murray
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, and School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia.
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8
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Bai S, Chen J, Guo M, Ren N, Zhao X. Vertical-scale spatial influence of radial oxygen loss on rhizosphere microbial community in constructed wetland. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 171:107690. [PMID: 36516673 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Complex interactions between plants and microorganisms form the basis of constructed wetlands (CWs) for pollutant removal. In the rhizosphere, radial oxygen loss (ROL) plays a key role in the activity and abundance of functional microorganisms. However, little has been done to explore how ROL would influence the niche differentiation of microbial communities at different vertical spatial scales. We demonstrate that ROL decreases with depth, promoting an oxidation-reduction rhizosphere microecosystem in CWs. The high level of ROL in the upper layer could support the oxygen supply for aerobic bacteria (Haliangium), facilitating the COD (60%) and NH4+-N (50%) removal, whereas the enrichment of denitrifiers (e.g., Hydrogenophaga and Ralstonia) and methanotrophs (Methanobaterium) in the lower layer could stimulate denitrification. The function prediction results further certified that the abundance of genes catalyzing nitrifying and denitrification processes were significantly enhanced in the upper and bottom layers, respectively, which was attributed to the oxygen concentration gradient in the rhizosphere. This study contributes to further unraveling the rhizosphere effect and enables an improved understanding of the decontamination mechanisms of CWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunwen Bai
- School of Environment, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Juntong Chen
- College of Resource and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Mengran Guo
- College of Resource and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Nanqi Ren
- School of Environment, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Xinyue Zhao
- College of Resource and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China.
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9
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MacDermott-Opeskin H, Clarke C, Wu X, Roseblade A, York E, Pacchini E, Roy R, Cranfield C, Gale PA, O'Mara ML, Murray M, Rawling T. Protonophoric and mitochondrial uncoupling activity of aryl-carbamate substituted fatty acids. Org Biomol Chem 2022; 21:132-139. [PMID: 36453203 DOI: 10.1039/d2ob02049a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Aryl-urea substituted fatty acids are protonophores and mitochondrial uncouplers that utilise a urea-based synthetic anion transport moiety to carry out the protonophoric cycle. Herein we show that replacement of the urea group with carbamate, a functional group not previously reported to possess anion transport activity, produces analogues that retain the activity of their urea counterparts. Thus, the aryl-carbamate substituted fatty acids uncouple oxidative phosphorylation and inhibit ATP production by collapsing the mitochondrial proton gradient. Proton transport proceeds via self-assembly of the deprotonated aryl-carbamates into membrane permeable dimeric species, formed by intermolecular binding of the carboxylate group to the carbamate moiety. These results highlight the anion transport capacity of the carbamate functional group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo MacDermott-Opeskin
- Research School of Chemistry, College of Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 0200, Australia
| | - Callum Clarke
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
| | - Xin Wu
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.,School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Ariane Roseblade
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
| | - Edward York
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
| | - Ethan Pacchini
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
| | - Ritik Roy
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
| | - Charles Cranfield
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Philip A Gale
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.,The University of Sydney Nano Institute (SydneyNano), The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Megan L O'Mara
- Research School of Chemistry, College of Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 0200, Australia.,Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Michael Murray
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Tristan Rawling
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
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10
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The aryl-ureido fatty acid CTU activates endoplasmic reticulum stress and PERK/NOXA-mediated apoptosis in tumor cells by a dual mitochondrial-targeting mechanism. Cancer Lett 2022; 526:131-141. [PMID: 34822928 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The cancer cell mitochondrion is functionally different from that in normal cells and could be targeted to develop novel experimental therapeutics. The aryl-ureido fatty acid CTU (16({[4-chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-carbamoyl}amino)hexadecanoic acid) is the prototype of a new class of mitochondrion-targeted agents that kill cancer cells. Here we show that CTU rapidly depolarized the inner mitochondrial membrane, selectively inhibited complex III of the electron transport chain and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. From RNA-seq analysis, endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-stress was a major activated pathway in CTU-treated cells and in MDA-MB-231 tumor xenografts from CTU-treated nu/nu mice. Mitochondrion-derived ROS activated the PERK-linked ER-stress pathway and induced the BH3-only protein NOXA leading to outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM) disruption. The lipid peroxyl scavenger α-tocopherol attenuated CTU-dependent ER-stress and apoptosis which confirmed the critical role of ROS. Oleic acid protected against CTU-mediated apoptosis by activating Mcl-1 expression, which increased NOXA sequestration and prevented OMM disruption. Taken together, CTU both uncouples mitochondrial electron transport and activates ROS production which promotes ER-stress-dependent OMM disruption and tumor cell death. Dual-mitochondrial targeting agents like CTU offer a novel approach for development of new anti-cancer therapeutics.
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11
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Hoa NT, Ngoc Van LT, Vo QV. The hydroperoxyl antiradical activity of natural hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives in physiological environments: the effects of pH values on rate constants. RSC Adv 2022; 12:15115-15122. [PMID: 35702430 PMCID: PMC9115882 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra02311c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantum chemistry calculations suggest that hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives are good natural antioxidants in aqueous solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Thi Hoa
- The University of Danang – University of Technology and Education, Danang 550000, Vietnam
| | | | - Quan V. Vo
- The University of Danang – University of Technology and Education, Danang 550000, Vietnam
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12
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Zhang T, Hong XQ, Zhi HT, Hu J, Chen WH. Synthesis and mechanism of biological action of morpholinyl-bearing arylsquaramides as small-molecule lysosomal pH modulators. RSC Adv 2022; 12:22748-22759. [PMID: 36105976 PMCID: PMC9376937 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra02146c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Lysosomal pH is an important modulator for many cellular processes. An agent that is capable of regulating lysosomal pH may find a wide range of potential applications in the field of biomedicine. In this study, we describe the synthesis of a family of morpholinyl-bearing arylsquaramides as small-molecule lysosomal pH modulators. These compounds are able to efficiently facilitate the transmembrane transport of chloride anions as mobile carriers across vesicular and cellular phospholipid membranes. They are capable of specifically alkalizing liposomes, disrupting the homeostasis of lysosomal pH and inactivivating lysosomal Cathepsin B enzyme. Anion transport is considered as the probable mechanism of action for the high efficiency of these compounds to modulate lysosomal pH. The present findings present a novel means to efficiently regulate lysosomal pH, which is in contrast to the methods shown by conventional lysosomal pH modulators that generally function by either acting as a weak base/acid, or releasing a basic/acidic component in lysosomal environments to change lysosomal pH. A family of small-molecule arylsquaramides were synthesized as transmembrane anion transporters for modulating lysosomal pH.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zhang
- School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Qiao Hong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Haidian Dist, Beijing 100084, P. R. China
| | - Hai-Tao Zhi
- School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Jinhui Hu
- School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, Guangdong, P. R. China
| | - Wen-Hua Chen
- School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen 529020, Guangdong, P. R. China
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13
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Abstract
Several life-threatening diseases, also known as 'Channelopathies' are linked to irregularities in ion transport proteins. Significant research efforts have fostered the development of artificial transport systems that facilitates to restore the functions of impaired natural transport proteins. Indeed, a few of these artificial ionophores demonstrate the rare combination of transmembrane ion transport and important biological activity, offering early promises of suitability in 'channel replacement therapy'. In this review, structural facets and functions of both cationophores and anionophores are discussed. Ionophores that are toxic to various bacteria and yeast, could be exploited as antimicrobial agent. Nevertheless, few non-toxic ionophores offer the likelihood of treating a wide range of genetic diseases caused by the gene mutations. In addition, their ability to disrupt cellular homeostasis and to alter lysosomal pH endow ionophores as promising candidates for cancer treatment. Overall, critically outlining the advances in artificial ionophores in terms of in vitro ion transport, possible modes of action and biological activities enables us to propose possible future roadmaps in this research area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arundhati Roy
- Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Butenandtstraße 5-13, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Pinaki Talukdar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan, Pune, 411008, India
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14
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Hossain SI, Saha SC, Deplazes E. Phenolic compounds alter the ion permeability of phospholipid bilayers via specific lipid interactions. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2021; 23:22352-22366. [PMID: 34604899 DOI: 10.1039/d1cp03250j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to understand the role of specific phenolic-lipid interactions in the membrane-altering properties of phenolic compounds. We combine tethered lipid bilayer (tBLM) electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) with all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to study the membrane interactions of six phenolic compounds: caffeic acid methyl ester, caffeic acid, 3,4 dihydroxybenzoic acid, chlorogenic acid, syringic acid and p-coumaric acid. tBLM/EIS experiments showed that caffeic acid methyl ester, caffeic acid and 3,4 dihydroxybenzoic acid significantly increase the permeability of phospholipid bilayers to Na+ ions. In contrast, chlorogenic acid, syringic acid and p-coumaric acid showed no effect. Experiments with lipids lacking the phosphate group show a significant decrease in the membrane-altering effects indicating that specific phenolic-lipid interactions are critical in altering ion permeability. MD simulations confirm that compounds that alter ion permeability form stable interactions with the phosphate oxygen. In contrast, inactive phenolic compounds are superficially bound to the membrane surface and primarily interact with interfacial water. Our combined results show that compounds with similar structures can have very different effects on ion permeability in membranes. These effects are governed by specific interactions at the water-lipid interface and show no correlation with lipophilicity. Furthermore, none of the compounds alter the overall structure of the phospholipid bilayer as determined by area per lipid and order parameters. Based on data from this study and previous findings, we propose that phenolic compounds can alter membrane ion permeability by causing local changes in lipid packing that subsequently reduce the energy barrier for ion-induced pores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheikh I Hossain
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia.
| | - Suvash C Saha
- School of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Evelyne Deplazes
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia. .,School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
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15
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Shrestha R, Johnson E, Byrne FL. Exploring the therapeutic potential of mitochondrial uncouplers in cancer. Mol Metab 2021; 51:101222. [PMID: 33781939 PMCID: PMC8129951 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2021.101222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mitochondrial uncouplers are well-known for their ability to treat a myriad of metabolic diseases, including obesity and fatty liver diseases. However, for many years now, mitochondrial uncouplers have also been evaluated in diverse models of cancer in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, some mitochondrial uncouplers are now in clinical trials for cancer, although none have yet been approved for the treatment of cancer. SCOPE OF REVIEW In this review we summarise published studies in which mitochondrial uncouplers have been investigated as an anti-cancer therapy in preclinical models. In many cases, mitochondrial uncouplers show strong anti-cancer effects both as single agents, and in combination therapies, and some are more toxic to cancer cells than normal cells. Furthermore, the mitochondrial uncoupling mechanism of action in cancer cells has been described in detail, with consistencies and inconsistencies between different structural classes of uncouplers. For example, many mitochondrial uncouplers decrease ATP levels and disrupt key metabolic signalling pathways such as AMPK/mTOR but have different effects on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Many of these effects oppose aberrant phenotypes common in cancer cells that ultimately result in cell death. We also highlight several gaps in knowledge that need to be addressed before we have a clear direction and strategy for applying mitochondrial uncouplers as anti-cancer agents. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS There is a large body of evidence supporting the therapeutic use of mitochondrial uncouplers to treat cancer. However, the long-term safety of some uncouplers remains in question and it will be critical to identify which patients and cancer types would benefit most from these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riya Shrestha
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington, 2052, Australia
| | - Edward Johnson
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington, 2052, Australia
| | - Frances L Byrne
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington, 2052, Australia.
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16
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Al-Zubaidi Y, Chen Y, Khalilur Rahman M, Umashankar B, Choucair H, Bourget K, Chung L, Qi Y, Witting PK, Anderson RL, O'Neill GM, Dunstan CR, Rawling T, Murray M. PTU, a novel ureido-fatty acid, inhibits MDA-MB-231 cell invasion and dissemination by modulating Wnt5a secretion and cytoskeletal signaling. Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 192:114726. [PMID: 34389322 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Migration and invasion promote tumor cell metastasis, which is the leading cause of cancer death. At present there are no effective treatments. Epidemiological studies have suggested that ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) may decrease cancer aggressiveness. In recent studies epoxide metabolites of ω-3 PUFA exhibited anti-cancer activity, although increased in vivo stability is required to develop useful drugs. Here we synthesized novel stabilized ureido-fatty acid ω-3 epoxide isosteres and found that one analogue - p-tolyl-ureidopalmitic acid (PTU) - inhibited migration and invasion by MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo in xenografted nu/nu mice. From proteomics analysis of PTU-treated cells major regulated pathways were linked to the actin cytoskeleton and actin-based motility. The principal finding was that PTU impaired the formation of actin protrusions by decreasing the secretion of Wnt5a, which dysregulated the Wnt/planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway and actin cytoskeletal dynamics. Exogenous Wnt5a restored invasion and Wnt/PCP signalling in PTU-treated cells. PTU is the prototype of a novel class of agents that selectively dysregulate the Wnt/PCP pathway by inhibiting Wnt5a secretion and actin dynamics to impair MDA-MB-231 cell migration and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yassir Al-Zubaidi
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; College of Pharmacy, The University of Mashreq, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Yongjuan Chen
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Md Khalilur Rahman
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Bala Umashankar
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Hassan Choucair
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Kirsi Bourget
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Long Chung
- Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Yanfei Qi
- Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Paul K Witting
- Discipline of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Robin L Anderson
- Translational Breast Cancer Program, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia; School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Geraldine M O'Neill
- Children's Cancer Research Unit, the Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia; Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Colin R Dunstan
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Tristan Rawling
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Michael Murray
- Pharmacogenomics and Drug Development Group, Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
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17
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White LJ, Boles JE, Hilton KLF, Ellaby RJ, Hiscock JR. Towards the Application of Supramolecular Self-Associating Amphiphiles as Next-Generation Delivery Vehicles. Molecules 2020; 25:E4126. [PMID: 32917007 PMCID: PMC7570936 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25184126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Herein, we present a series of supramolecular self-associating amphiphilic (SSA) salts and establish the potential for these molecular constructs to act as next-generation solution-state molecular delivery vehicles. We characterise the self-association of these SSAs, both alone and when co-formulated with a variety of drug(like) competitive guest species. Single crystal X-ray diffraction studies enable the observation of hydrogen-bonded self-association events in the solid state, whilst high resolution mass spectrometry confirms the presence of anionic SSA dimers in the gas-phase. These same anionic SSA dimeric species are also identified within a competitive organic solvent environment (DMSO-d6/0.5% H2O). However, extended self-associated aggregates are observed to form under aqueous conditions (H2O/5.0% EtOH) in both the absence and presence of these competitive guest species. Finally, through the completion of these studies, we present a framework to support others in the characterisation of such systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jennifer R. Hiscock
- School of Physical Sciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NH, UK; (L.J.W.); (J.E.B.); (K.L.F.H.); (R.J.E.)
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