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Shoaib R, Parveen N, Kumar V, Behl A, Garg S, Chaudhary P, Rex DAB, Saini M, Maurya P, Jain R, Pandey KC, Abid M, Singh S. Prefoldins are novel regulators of the unfolded protein response in artemisinin resistant P. falciparum malaria. J Biol Chem 2024:107496. [PMID: 38925325 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107496] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Emerging Artemisinin (ART) resistance in Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) poses challenges for discovery of novel drugs to tackle ART resistant parasites. Concentrated efforts towards ART resistance mechanism indicated a strong molecular link of ART resistance with up-regulated expression of unfolded protein response pathways involving Prefoldins (PFDs). However, a complete characterization of PFDs as molecular players taking part in ART resistance mechanism, and discovery of small molecule inhibitors to block this process have not been identified to date. Here, we functionally characterized all Pf Prefoldin subunits (PFD1-6), and established a causative role played by PFDs in ART resistance by demonstrating their expression in intra-erythrocytic parasites along with their interactions with Kelch13 protein through immunoprecipitation coupled MS/MS analysis. Systematic biophysical interaction analysis between all subunits of PFDs revealed their potential to form a complex. The role of PFDs in ART resistance was confirmed in orthologous yeast PFD6 mutants, where PfPFD6 expression in yeast mutants reverted phenotype to ART resistance. We identified an FDA approved drug 'Biperiden' that restricts the formation of Prefoldin complex and inhibits its interaction with its key parasite protein substrates, MSP-1 and α-tubulin-I. Moreover, Biperiden treatment inhibits the parasite growth in ART sensitive Pf3D7 and resistant Pf3D7k13R539T strains. Ring survival assays that are clinically relevant to analyse ART resistance in Pf3D7k13R539T parasites demonstrate the potency of BPD to inhibit growth of survivor parasites. Overall, our study provides first evidence towards the role of PfPFDs in ART resistance mechanism, and opens new avenues for the management of resistant parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumaisha Shoaib
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Delhi, 110067; India; Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, Delhi, 110025; India
| | - Nidha Parveen
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Delhi, 110067; India
| | - Vikash Kumar
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Delhi, 110067; India
| | - Ankita Behl
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Delhi, 110067; India
| | - Swati Garg
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Delhi, 110067; India
| | - Preeti Chaudhary
- ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, New Delhi, India; Department of Life Sciences, IGNOU, Delhi, India
| | | | - Monika Saini
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Delhi, 110067; India; Department of Life Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Delhi NCR, Uttar Pradesh, 201314 India
| | - Preeti Maurya
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Delhi, 110067; India
| | - Ravi Jain
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Delhi, 110067; India
| | | | - Mohammad Abid
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, Delhi, 110025; India
| | - Shailja Singh
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Delhi, 110067; India.
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Ezenyi I, Madan E, Singhal J, Jain R, Chakrabarti A, Ghousepeer GD, Pandey RP, Igoli N, Igoli J, Singh S. Screening of traditional medicinal plant extracts and compounds identifies a potent anti-leishmanial diarylheptanoid from Siphonochilus aethiopicus. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:2449-2463. [PMID: 37199276 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2212779] [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: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Available anti-leishmanial drugs are associated with toxic side effects, necessitating the search for safe and effective alternatives. This study is focused on identifying traditional medicinal plant natural products for anti-leishmanial potential and possible mechanism of action. Compounds S and T. cordifolia residual fraction (TC-5) presented the best anti-leishmanial activity (IC50: 0.446 and 1.028 mg/ml) against promastigotes at 48 h and less cytotoxicity to THP-1 macrophages. These test agents elicited increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines; TNFα and IL-12. In infected untreated macrophages, NO release was suppressed but was significantly (p < 0.05) increased in infected cells treated with compound S. Importantly, Compound S was found to interact with LdTopoIIdimer in silico, resulting in a likely reduced ability of nucleic acid (dsDNA)-remodelling and, as a result, parasite proliferation in vitro. Thereby, Compound S possesses anti-leishmanial activity and this effect occurs via a Th1-mediated pro-inflammatory response. An increase in NO release and its inhibitory effect on LdTopoII may also contribute to the anti-leishmanial effect of compound S. These results show the potential of this compound as a potential starting point for the discovery of novel anti-leishmanial leads.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifeoma Ezenyi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Evanka Madan
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Jhalak Singhal
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Ravi Jain
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Amrita Chakrabarti
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
- Department of Life Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, India
| | | | - Ramendra Pati Pandey
- Centre for Drug Design Discovery and Development, SRM University, Sonepat, Haryana, India
| | - Ngozichukwuka Igoli
- Centre for Food Technology and Research, Benue State University, Makurdi, Nigeria
| | - John Igoli
- Centre for Medicinal Plants and Propolis Research, Department of Chemical Sciences, Pen Resource University, Gombe, Nigeria
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Shailja Singh
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
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Irfan I, Uddin A, Jain R, Gupta A, Gupta S, Napoleon JV, Hussain A, Alajmi MF, Joshi MC, Hasan P, Kumar P, Abid M, Singh S. Biological evaluation of novel side chain containing CQTrICh-analogs as antimalarials and their development as PfCDPK1 kinase inhibitors. Heliyon 2024; 10:e25077. [PMID: 38327451 PMCID: PMC10847618 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid emergence of resistance to existing frontline antimalarial drugs emphasizes a need for the development of target-oriented molecules with novel modes of action. Given the importance of a plant-like Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinase 1 (PfCDPK1) as a stand-alone multistage signalling regulator of P. falciparum, we designed and synthesized 7-chloroquinoline-indole-chalcones tethered with a triazole (CQTrICh-analogs 7 (a-s) and 9) directed towards PfCDPK1. This was accomplished by reacting substituted 1-phenyl-3-(1-(prop-2-yn-1-yl)-1H-indol-3-yl) prop-2-en-1-one and 1-(prop-2-yn-1-yl)-1H-indole-3-carbaldehyde with 4-azido-7-chloroquinoline, respectively via a 'click' reaction. The selected CQTrICh-analogs: 7l and 7r inhibited the growth of chloroquine-sensitive 3D7 strain and -resistant RKL-9 isolate of Plasmodium falciparum, with IC50 values of 2.4 μM & 1.8 μM (7l), and 3.5 μM & 2.7 μM (7r), respectively, and showed no apparent hemolytic activity and cytotoxicity in mammalian cells. Intra-erythrocytic progression studies revealed that the active hybrids: 7l and 7r are effective against the mature stages of the parasite. 7l and 7r were found to stably interact with the catalytically active ATP-binding pocket of PfCDPK1 via energetically favourable H-bonds. The interaction was confirmed in vitro by microscale thermophoresis and kinase assays, which demonstrated that the active hybrids interact with PfCDPK1 and inhibit its kinase activity which is presumably responsible for the parasite growth inhibition. Interestingly, 7l and 7r showed no inhibitory effect on the human kinases, indicating their selectivity for the parasite kinase. We report the antiplasmodial potential of novel kinase-targeting bio-conjugates, a step towards developing pan-kinase inhibitors which is a prerequisite for multistage anti-malarial protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iram Irfan
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Amad Uddin
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Ravi Jain
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Aashima Gupta
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Sonal Gupta
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | | | - Afzal Hussain
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed F. Alajmi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mukesh C. Joshi
- Department of Chemistry, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Phool Hasan
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Purnendu Kumar
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Mohammad Abid
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Shailja Singh
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
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Shafi S, Gupta S, Jain R, Shoaib R, Munjal A, Maurya P, Kumar P, Kalam Najmi A, Singh S. Tackling the emerging Artemisinin-resistant malaria parasite by modulation of defensive oxido-reductive mechanism via nitrofurantoin repurposing. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115756. [PMID: 37598974 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress-mediated cell death has remained the prime parasiticidal mechanism of front line antimalarial, artemisinin (ART). The emergence of resistant Plasmodium parasites characterized by oxidative stress management due to impaired activation of ART and enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification has decreased its clinical efficacy. This gap can be filled by development of alternative chemotherapeutic agents to combat resistance defense mechanism. Interestingly, repositioning of clinically approved drugs presents an emerging approach for expediting antimalarial drug development and circumventing resistance. Herein, we evaluated the antimalarial potential of nitrofurantoin (NTF), a clinically used antibacterial drug, against intra-erythrocytic stages of ART-sensitive (Pf3D7) and resistant (PfKelch13R539T) strains of P. falciparum, alone and in combination with ART. NTF exhibited growth inhibitory effect at submicro-molar concentration by arresting parasite growth at trophozoite stage. It also inhibited the survival of resistant parasites as revealed by ring survival assay. Concomitantly, in vitro combination assay revealed synergistic association of NTF with ART. NTF was found to enhance the reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and induced mitochondrial membrane depolarization in parasite. Furthermore, we found that exposure of parasites to NTF disrupted redox balance by impeding Glutathione Reductase activity, which manifests in enhanced oxidative stress, inducing parasite death. In vivo administration of NTF, alone and in combination with ART, in P. berghei ANKA-infected mice blocked parasite multiplication and enhanced mean survival time. Overall, our results indicate NTF as a promising repurposable drug with therapeutic potential against ART-sensitive as well as resistant parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadat Shafi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India; Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Sonal Gupta
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Ravi Jain
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Rumaisha Shoaib
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Akshay Munjal
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Preeti Maurya
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Purnendu Kumar
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Abul Kalam Najmi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Shailja Singh
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India.
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Munjal A, Kannan D, Singh S. A C2 domain containing plasma membrane protein of Plasmodium falciparum merozoites mediates calcium-dependent binding and invasion to host erythrocytes. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2023; 56:139-149. [PMID: 35995671 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2022.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Invasion of red blood cells by Plasmodium falciparum merozoites is governed by multiple receptor-ligand interactions which are critical for bridging the two cells together. The critical function of these ligands for invasion and their direct exposure to the host immune system makes them lucrative vaccine candidates. This necessitates the discovery of new adhesins with less redundancy that mediates the binding of merozoite to the red cell, and furthermore invasion into it. Here we have identified a novel membrane associated antigen (PfC2DMA) that is conserved throughout the Plasmodium species and has a membrane targeting C2 domain at its extreme N-terminal region. METHODS Recombinant C2dom was expressed heterologously in bacteria and purified to homogeneity. Mice antisera against C2dom was raised and used to check the expression and intraparasitic localization of the protein. RBC and Ca2+ ion binding activity of C2dom was also checked. RESULTS C2dom exhibited specific binding to Ca2+ ions and not to Mg2+ ions. PfC2DMA localized to the surface of merozoite and recombinant C2dom bound to the surface of human RBCs. RBC receptor modification by treatment with different enzymes showed that binding of C2dom to RBC surface is neuraminidase sensitive. Mice antisera raised against C2dom of Pf C2DMA showed invasion inhibitory effects. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that C2dom of PfC2DMA binds to surface of red cell in a Ca2+-dependent manner, advocating a plausible role in invasion and can serve as a potential novel blood stage vaccine candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Munjal
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Deepika Kannan
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India; The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Shailja Singh
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India.
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6
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Anam Z, Kumari G, Mukherjee S, Rex DAB, Biswas S, Maurya P, Ravikumar S, Gupta N, Kushawaha AK, Sah RK, Chaurasiya A, Singhal J, Singh N, Kaushik S, Prasad TSK, Pati S, Ranganathan A, Singh S. Complementary crosstalk between palmitoylation and phosphorylation events in MTIP regulates its role during Plasmodium falciparum invasion. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:924424. [PMID: 36250062 PMCID: PMC9556994 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.924424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications (PTMs) including phosphorylation and palmitoylation have emerged as crucial biomolecular events that govern many cellular processes including functioning of motility- and invasion-associated proteins during Plasmodium falciparum invasion. However, no study has ever focused on understanding the possibility of a crosstalk between these two molecular events and its direct impact on preinvasion- and invasion-associated protein–protein interaction (PPI) network-based molecular machinery. Here, we used an integrated in silico analysis to enrich two different catalogues of proteins: (i) the first group defines the cumulative pool of phosphorylated and palmitoylated proteins, and (ii) the second group represents a common set of proteins predicted to have both phosphorylation and palmitoylation. Subsequent PPI analysis identified an important protein cluster comprising myosin A tail interacting protein (MTIP) as one of the hub proteins of the glideosome motor complex in P. falciparum, predicted to have dual modification with the possibility of a crosstalk between the same. Our findings suggested that blocking palmitoylation led to reduced phosphorylation and blocking phosphorylation led to abrogated palmitoylation of MTIP. As a result of the crosstalk between these biomolecular events, MTIP’s interaction with myosin A was found to be abrogated. Next, the crosstalk between phosphorylation and palmitoylation was confirmed at a global proteome level by click chemistry and the phenotypic effect of this crosstalk was observed via synergistic inhibition in P. falciparum invasion using checkerboard assay and isobologram method. Overall, our findings revealed, for the first time, an interdependence between two PTM types, their possible crosstalk, and its direct impact on MTIP-mediated invasion via glideosome assembly protein myosin A in P. falciparum. These insights can be exploited for futuristic drug discovery platforms targeting parasite molecular machinery for developing novel antimalarial therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zille Anam
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Geeta Kumari
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Soumyadeep Mukherjee
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | | | - Shreeja Biswas
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Preeti Maurya
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Susendaran Ravikumar
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nutan Gupta
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Raj Kumar Sah
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Ayushi Chaurasiya
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Jhalak Singhal
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Niharika Singh
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Shikha Kaushik
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - T. S. Keshava Prasad
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
| | - Soumya Pati
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
- *Correspondence: Shailja Singh, ; Anand Ranganathan, ; Soumya Pati,
| | - Anand Ranganathan
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
- *Correspondence: Shailja Singh, ; Anand Ranganathan, ; Soumya Pati,
| | - Shailja Singh
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
- *Correspondence: Shailja Singh, ; Anand Ranganathan, ; Soumya Pati,
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Kumari G, Jain R, Kumar Sah R, Kalia I, Vashistha M, Singh P, Prasad Singh A, Samby K, Burrows J, Singh S. Multistage and transmission-blocking tubulin targeting potent antimalarial discovered from the open access MMV pathogen box. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 203:115154. [PMID: 35798201 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The development of resistance to current antimalarial therapies remains a significant source of concern. To address this risk,newdrugswithnoveltargetsin distinct developmental stages ofPlasmodiumparasites are required. In the current study,we have targetedP. falciparumTubulin(PfTubulin)proteins which represent some of thepotentialdrug targetsfor malaria chemotherapy. PlasmodialMicrotubules (MTs) play a crucial role during parasite proliferation, growth, and transmission, which render them highlydesirabletargets for the development ofnext-generation chemotherapeutics. Towards this,we have evaluated the antimalarial activity ofTubulintargetingcompounds received from theMedicines for Malaria Venture (MMV)"Pathogen Box"against the human malaria parasite,P. falciparumincluding 3D7 (chloroquine and artemisinin sensitive strain), RKL-9 (chloroquine-resistant strain), and R539T (artemisinin-resistant strain). At nanomolar concentrations, the filtered-out compounds exhibitedpronouncedmultistage antimalarialeffects across the parasite life cycle, including intra-erythrocytic blood stages, liver stage parasites, gametocytes, and ookinetes. Concomitantly, these compoundswere found toimpedemale gamete ex-flagellation, thus showingtheir transmission-blocking potential. Target mining of these potent compounds, by combining in silico, biochemical and biophysical assays,implicatedPfTubulinas their moleculartarget, which may possibly act bydisruptingMT assembly dynamics by binding at the interface of α-βTubulin-dimer.Further, the promising ADME profile of the parent scaffold supported its consideration as a lead compound for further development.Thus, our work highlights the potential of targetingPfTubulin proteins in discovering and developing next-generation, multistage antimalarial agents against Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR) malaria parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geeta Kumari
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Ravi Jain
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Raj Kumar Sah
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | | | - Manu Vashistha
- Advanced Instrumentation Research Facility, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Pooja Singh
- National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi 110067, India
| | | | | | | | - Shailja Singh
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India.
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Uddin A, Gupta S, Mohammad T, Shahi D, Hussain A, Alajmi MF, El-Seedi HR, Hassan I, Singh S, Abid M. Target-Based Virtual Screening of Natural Compounds Identifies a Potent Antimalarial With Selective Falcipain-2 Inhibitory Activity. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:850176. [PMID: 35462917 PMCID: PMC9020225 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.850176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
We employed a comprehensive approach of target-based virtual high-throughput screening to find potential hits from the ZINC database of natural compounds against cysteine proteases falcipain-2 and falcipain-3 (FP2 and FP3). Molecular docking studies showed the initial hits showing high binding affinity and specificity toward FP2 were selected. Furthermore, the enzyme inhibition and surface plasmon resonance assays were performed which resulted in a compound ZINC12900664 (ST72) with potent inhibitory effects on purified FP2. ST72 exhibited strong growth inhibition of chloroquine-sensitive (3D7; EC50 = 2.8 µM) and chloroquine-resistant (RKL-9; EC50 = 6.7 µM) strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Stage-specific inhibition assays revealed a delayed and growth defect during parasite growth and development in parasites treated with ST72. Furthermore, ST72 significantly reduced parasite load and increased host survival in a murine model infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA. No Evans blue staining in ST72 treatment indicated that ST72 mediated protection of blood–brain barrier integrity in mice infected with P. berghei. ST72 did not show any significant hemolysis or cytotoxicity against human HepG2 cells suggesting a good safety profile. Importantly, ST72 with CQ resulted in improved growth inhibitory activity than individual drugs in both in vitro and in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amad Uddin
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Sonal Gupta
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Taj Mohammad
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Diksha Shahi
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Afzal Hussain
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed F. Alajmi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hesham R. El-Seedi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Biomedical Centre, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Shailja Singh
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
- *Correspondence: Shailja Singh, ; Mohammad Abid,
| | - Mohammad Abid
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
- *Correspondence: Shailja Singh, ; Mohammad Abid,
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Abstract
Host-directed therapy (HDT) is gaining traction as a strategy to combat infectious diseases caused by viruses and intracellular bacteria, but its implementation in the context of parasitic diseases has received less attention. Here, we provide a brief overview of this field and advocate HDT as a promising strategy for antimalarial intervention based on untapped targets. HDT provides a basis from which repurposed drugs could be rapidly deployed and is likely to strongly limit the emergence of resistance. This strategy can be applied to any intracellular pathogen and is particularly well placed in situations in which rapid identification of treatments is needed, such as emerging infections and pandemics, as starkly illustrated by the current COVID-19 crisis.
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Bepari AK, Reza HM. Identification of a novel inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 3CL-PRO through virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulation. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11261. [PMID: 33954055 PMCID: PMC8051358 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has ravaged lives across the globe since December 2019, and new cases are still on the rise. Peoples’ ongoing sufferings trigger scientists to develop safe and effective remedies to treat this deadly viral disease. While repurposing the existing FDA-approved drugs remains in the front line, exploring drug candidates from synthetic and natural compounds is also a viable alternative. This study employed a comprehensive computational approach to screen inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2 3CL-PRO (also known as the main protease), a prime molecular target to treat coronavirus diseases. Methods We performed 100 ns GROMACS molecular dynamics simulations of three high-resolution X-ray crystallographic structures of 3CL-PRO. We extracted frames at 10 ns intervals to mimic conformational diversities of the target protein in biological environments. We then used AutoDock Vina molecular docking to virtual screen the Sigma–Aldrich MyriaScreen Diversity Library II, a rich collection of 10,000 druglike small molecules with diverse chemotypes. Subsequently, we adopted in silico computation of physicochemical properties, pharmacokinetic parameters, and toxicity profiles. Finally, we analyzed hydrogen bonding and other protein-ligand interactions for the short-listed compounds. Results Over the 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations of 3CL-PRO’s crystal structures, 6LZE, 6M0K, and 6YB7, showed overall integrity with mean Cα root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) of 1.96 (±0.35) Å, 1.98 (±0.21) Å, and 1.94 (±0.25) Å, respectively. Average root-mean-square fluctuation (RMSF) values were 1.21 ± 0.79 (6LZE), 1.12 ± 0.72 (6M0K), and 1.11 ± 0.60 (6YB7). After two phases of AutoDock Vina virtual screening of the MyriaScreen Diversity Library II, we prepared a list of the top 20 ligands. We selected four promising leads considering predicted oral bioavailability, druglikeness, and toxicity profiles. These compounds also demonstrated favorable protein-ligand interactions. We then employed 50-ns molecular dynamics simulations for the four selected molecules and the reference ligand 11a in the crystallographic structure 6LZE. Analysis of RMSF, RMSD, and hydrogen bonding along the simulation trajectories indicated that S51765 would form a more stable protein-ligand complexe with 3CL-PRO compared to other molecules. Insights into short-range Coulombic and Lennard-Jones potentials also revealed favorable binding of S51765 with 3CL-PRO. Conclusion We identified a potential lead for antiviral drug discovery against the SARS-CoV-2 main protease. Our results will aid global efforts to find safe and effective remedies for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asim Kumar Bepari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Hasan Mahmud Reza
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Adderley J, Williamson T, Doerig C. Parasite and Host Erythrocyte Kinomics of Plasmodium Infection. Trends Parasitol 2021; 37:508-524. [PMID: 33593681 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2021.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Malaria remains a heavy public health and socioeconomic burden in tropical and subtropical regions. Increasing resistance against front-line treatments implies that novel targets for antimalarial intervention are urgently required. Protein kinases of both the parasites and their host cells possess strong potential in this respect. We present an overview of the updated kinome of Plasmodium falciparum, the species that is the largest contributor to malaria mortality, and of current knowledge pertaining to the function of parasite-encoded protein kinases during the parasite's life cycle. Furthermore, we detail recent advances in drug initiatives targeting Plasmodium kinases and outline the potential of protein kinases in the context of the growing field of host-directed therapies, which is currently being explored as a novel way to combat parasite drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Adderley
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Tayla Williamson
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Christian Doerig
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia.
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Molecular dynamics simulations and biochemical characterization of Pf14-3-3 and PfCDPK1 interaction towards its role in growth of human malaria parasite. Biochem J 2020; 477:2153-2177. [PMID: 32484216 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20200145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Scaffold proteins play pivotal role as modulators of cellular processes by operating as multipurpose conformation clamps. 14-3-3 proteins are gold-standard scaffold modules that recognize phosphoSer/Thr (pS/pT) containing conserved motifs, and confer conformational changes leading to modulation of functional parameters of their target proteins. Modulation in functional activity of kinases has been attributed to their interaction with 14-3-3 proteins. Herein, we have annotated and characterized PF3D7_0818200 as 14-3-3 isoform I in Plasmodium falciparum 3D7, and its interaction with one of the key kinases of the parasite, Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinase 1 (CDPK1) by performing various analytical biochemistry and biophysical assays. Molecular dynamics simulation studies indicated that CDPK1 polypeptide sequence (61KLGpS64) behaves as canonical Mode I-type (RXXpS/pT) consensus 14-3-3 binding motif, mediating the interaction. The 14-3-3I/CDPK1 interaction was validated in vitro with ELISA and SPR, which confirmed that the interaction is phosphorylation dependent, with binding affinity constant of 670 ± 3.6 nM. The interaction of 14-3-3I with CDPK1 was validated with well characterized optimal 14-3-3 recognition motifs: Mode I-type ARSHpSYPA and Mode II-type RLYHpSLPA, by simulation studies and ITC. This interaction was found to marginally enhance CDPK1 functional activity. Furthermore, interaction antagonizing peptidomimetics showed growth inhibitory impact on the parasite indicating crucial physiological role of 14-3-3/CDPK1 interaction. Overall, this study characterizes 14-3-3I as a scaffold protein in the malaria parasite and unveils CDPK1 as its previously unidentified target. This sets a precedent for the rational design of 14-3-3 based PPI inhibitors by utilizing 14-3-3 recognition motif peptides, as a potential antimalarial strategy.
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Moolman C, van der Sluis R, Beteck RM, Legoabe LJ. An Update on Development of Small-Molecule Plasmodial Kinase Inhibitors. Molecules 2020; 25:E5182. [PMID: 33171706 PMCID: PMC7664427 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25215182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria control relies heavily on the small number of existing antimalarial drugs. However, recurring antimalarial drug resistance necessitates the continual generation of new antimalarial drugs with novel modes of action. In order to shift the focus from only controlling this disease towards elimination and eradication, next-generation antimalarial agents need to address the gaps in the malaria drug arsenal. This includes developing drugs for chemoprotection, treating severe malaria and blocking transmission. Plasmodial kinases are promising targets for next-generation antimalarial drug development as they mediate critical cellular processes and some are active across multiple stages of the parasite's life cycle. This review gives an update on the progress made thus far with regards to plasmodial kinase small-molecule inhibitor development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantalle Moolman
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa; (C.M.); (R.M.B.)
| | - Rencia van der Sluis
- Focus Area for Human Metabolomics, Biochemistry, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa;
| | - Richard M. Beteck
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa; (C.M.); (R.M.B.)
| | - Lesetja J. Legoabe
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa; (C.M.); (R.M.B.)
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Abstract
Malaria is one of the most impacting public health problems in tropical and subtropical areas of the globe, with approximately 200 million cases worldwide annually. In the absence of an effective vaccine, rapid treatment is vital for effective malaria control. However, parasite resistance to currently available drugs underscores the urgent need for identifying new antimalarial therapies with new mechanisms of action. Among potential drug targets for developing new antimalarial candidates, protein kinases are attractive. These enzymes catalyze the phosphorylation of several proteins, thereby regulating a variety of cellular processes and playing crucial roles in the development of all stages of the malaria parasite life cycle. Moreover, the large phylogenetic distance between Plasmodium species and its human host is reflected in marked differences in structure and function of malaria protein kinases between the homologs of both species, indicating that selectivity can be attained. In this review, we describe the functions of the different types of Plasmodium kinases and highlight the main recent advances in the discovery of kinase inhibitors as potential new antimalarial drug candidates.
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