1
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Rodríguez CS, Laurents DV. Architectonic principles of polyproline II helix bundle protein domains. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 756:109981. [PMID: 38593862 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.109981] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Glycine rich polyproline II helix assemblies are an emerging class of natural domains found in several proteins with different functions and diverse origins. The distinct properties of these domains relative to those composed of α-helices and β-sheets could make glycine-rich polyproline II helix assemblies a useful building block for protein design. Whereas the high population of polyproline II conformers in disordered state ensembles could facilitate glycine-rich polyproline II helix folding, the architectonic bases of these structures are not well known. Here, we compare and analyze their structures to uncover common features. These protein domains are found to be highly tolerant of distinct flanking sequences. This speaks to the robustness of this fold and strongly suggests that glycine rich polyproline II assemblies could be grafted with other protein domains to engineer new structures and functions. These domains are also well packed with few or no cavities. Moreover, a significant trend towards antiparallel helix configuration is observed in all these domains and could provide stabilizing interactions among macrodipoles. Finally, extensive networks of Cα-H···OC hydrogen bonds are detected in these domains. Despite their diverse evolutionary origins and activities, glycine-rich polyproline II helix assemblies share architectonic features which could help design novel proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Douglas V Laurents
- Instituto de Química Física "Blas Cabrera" CSIC, Serrano 119 Madrid, Spain.
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2
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Zhou K, Chen D. Conventional Understanding of SARS-CoV-2 M pro and Common Strategies for Developing Its Inhibitors. Chembiochem 2023; 24:e202300301. [PMID: 37577869 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300301] [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: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has brought a widespread influence on the world, especially in the face of sudden coronavirus infections, and there is still an urgent need for specific small molecule therapies to cope with possible future pandemics. The pathogen responsible for this pandemic is Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and understanding its structure and lifecycle is beneficial for designing specific drugs of treatment for COVID-19. The main protease (Mpro ) which has conservative and specific advantages is essential for viral replication and transcription. It is regarded as one of the most potential targets for anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug development. This review introduces the popular knowledge of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro in drug development and lists a series of design principles and relevant activities of advanced Mpro inhibitors, hoping to provide some new directions and ideas for researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Yantai University, Yantai, Shandong, RT 264005, P. R. China
| | - Daquan Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Yantai University, Yantai, Shandong, RT 264005, P. R. China
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3
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SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Neutralizing Anti-Spike Protein Antibodies Modulate Blood Platelet Function. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065312. [PMID: 36982387 PMCID: PMC10049216 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies report elevated blood platelet activation and altered platelet count in COVID-19 patients, but the role of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in this process remains intriguing. Additionally, there is no data that anti-SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies (nAb) may attenuate spike protein activity toward blood platelets. Our results indicate that under in vitro conditions, the spike protein increased the collagen-stimulated aggregation of isolated platelets and induced the binding of vWF to platelets in ristocetin-treated blood. The spike protein also significantly reduced collagen- or ADP-induced aggregation or decreased GPIIbIIIa (fibrinogen receptor) activation in whole blood, depending on the presence of the anti-spike protein nAb. Our findings suggest that studies on platelet activation/reactivity in COVID-19 patients or in donors vaccinated with anti-SARS-CoV-2 and/or previously-infected COVID-19 should be supported by measurements of spike protein and IgG anti-spike protein antibody concentrations in blood.
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4
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Meirson T, Bomze D, Schueler-Furman O, Stemmer SM, Markel G. Systemic structural analysis of alterations reveals a common structural basis of driver mutations in cancer. NAR Cancer 2023; 5:zcac040. [PMID: 36683915 PMCID: PMC9846427 DOI: 10.1093/narcan/zcac040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
A major effort in cancer research is to organize the complexities of the disease into fundamental traits. Despite conceptual progress in the last decades and the synthesis of hallmark features, no organizing principles governing cancer beyond cellular features exist. We analyzed experimentally determined structures harboring the most significant and prevalent driver missense mutations in human cancer, covering 73% (n = 168178) of the Catalog of Somatic Mutation in Cancer tumor samples (COSMIC). The results reveal that a single structural element-κ-helix (polyproline II helix)-lies at the core of driver point mutations, with significant enrichment in all major anatomical sites, suggesting that a small number of molecular traits are shared by most and perhaps all types of cancer. Thus, we uncovered the lowest possible level of organization at which carcinogenesis takes place at the protein level. This framework provides an initial scheme for a mechanistic understanding underlying the development of tumors and pinpoints key vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomer Meirson
- Davidoff Cancer Center, Rabin Medical Center-Beilinson Hospital, Petah Tikva, 49100, Israel
| | - David Bomze
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Ora Schueler-Furman
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute for Biomedical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9112001, Israel
| | - Salomon M Stemmer
- Davidoff Cancer Center, Rabin Medical Center-Beilinson Hospital, Petah Tikva, 49100, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Gal Markel
- Davidoff Cancer Center, Rabin Medical Center-Beilinson Hospital, Petah Tikva, 49100, Israel
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, 6997801, Israel
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5
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Vetráková A, Chovanová RK, Rechtoríková R, Krajčíková D, Barák I. Bacillus subtilis spores displaying RBD domain of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2023; 21:1550-1556. [PMID: 36778063 PMCID: PMC9904849 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacillus subtilis spores are considered to be efficient and useful vehicles for the surface display and delivery of heterologous proteins. In this study, we prepared recombinant spores with the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein displayed on their surface in fusion with the CotZ or CotY spore coat proteins as a possible tool for the development of an oral vaccine against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The RBD was attached to the N-terminus or C-terminus of the coat proteins. We also directly adsorbed non-recombinantly produced RBD to the spore surface. SDS-PAGE, western blot and fluorescence microscopy were used to analyze RBD surface expression on purified spores. Results obtained from both display systems, recombinant and non-recombinant, demonstrated that RBD was present on the spore surfaces.
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6
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Manrique PD, Chakraborty S, Henderson R, Edwards RJ, Mansbach R, Nguyen K, Stalls V, Saunders C, Mansouri K, Acharya P, Korber B, Gnanakaran S. Network analysis uncovers the communication structure of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein identifying sites for immunogen design. iScience 2023; 26:105855. [PMID: 36590900 PMCID: PMC9791713 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has triggered myriad efforts to understand the structure and dynamics of this complex pathogen. The spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 is a significant target for immunogens as it is the means by which the virus enters human cells, while simultaneously sporting mutations responsible for immune escape. These functional and escape processes are regulated by complex molecular-level interactions. Our study presents quantitative insights on domain and residue contributions to allosteric communication, immune evasion, and local- and global-level control of functions through the derivation of a weighted graph representation from all-atom MD simulations. Focusing on the ancestral form and the D614G-variant, we provide evidence of the utility of our approach by guiding the selection of a mutation that alters the spike's stability. Taken together, the network approach serves as a valuable tool to evaluate communication "hot-spots" in proteins to guide design of stable immunogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro D. Manrique
- Theoretical Biology and Biophysics Group, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545, USA
| | - Srirupa Chakraborty
- Theoretical Biology and Biophysics Group, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545, USA
- Center for Nonlinear Studies, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545, USA
| | - Rory Henderson
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Robert J. Edwards
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Rachael Mansbach
- Physics Department, Concordia University, Montreal, QC H4B IR6, Canada
| | - Kien Nguyen
- Theoretical Biology and Biophysics Group, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545, USA
| | - Victoria Stalls
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Carrie Saunders
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Katayoun Mansouri
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Priyamvada Acharya
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Bette Korber
- Theoretical Biology and Biophysics Group, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545, USA
| | - S. Gnanakaran
- Theoretical Biology and Biophysics Group, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545, USA
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7
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Pisoschi AM, Iordache F, Stanca L, Gajaila I, Ghimpeteanu OM, Geicu OI, Bilteanu L, Serban AI. Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, and Immunomodulatory Roles of Nonvitamin Antioxidants in Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Therapy. J Med Chem 2022; 65:12562-12593. [PMID: 36136726 PMCID: PMC9514372 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Viral pathologies encompass activation of pro-oxidative pathways and inflammatory burst. Alleviating overproduction of reactive oxygen species and cytokine storm in COVID-19 is essential to counteract the immunogenic damage in endothelium and alveolar membranes. Antioxidants alleviate oxidative stress, cytokine storm, hyperinflammation, and diminish the risk of organ failure. Direct antiviral roles imply: impact on viral spike protein, interference with the ACE2 receptor, inhibition of dipeptidyl peptidase 4, transmembrane protease serine 2 or furin, and impact on of helicase, papain-like protease, 3-chyomotrypsin like protease, and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Prooxidative environment favors conformational changes in the receptor binding domain, promoting the affinity of the spike protein for the host receptor. Viral pathologies imply a vicious cycle, oxidative stress promoting inflammatory responses, and vice versa. The same was noticed with respect to the relationship antioxidant impairment-viral replication. Timing, dosage, pro-oxidative activities, mutual influences, and interference with other antioxidants should be carefully regarded. Deficiency is linked to illness severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelia Magdalena Pisoschi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department Preclinical
Sciences, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of
Bucharest, 105 Splaiul Independentei, 050097Bucharest,
Romania
| | - Florin Iordache
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department Preclinical
Sciences, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of
Bucharest, 105 Splaiul Independentei, 050097Bucharest,
Romania
| | - Loredana Stanca
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department Preclinical
Sciences, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of
Bucharest, 105 Splaiul Independentei, 050097Bucharest,
Romania
| | - Iuliana Gajaila
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department Preclinical
Sciences, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of
Bucharest, 105 Splaiul Independentei, 050097Bucharest,
Romania
| | - Oana Margarita Ghimpeteanu
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department Preclinical
Sciences, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of
Bucharest, 105 Splaiul Independentei, 050097Bucharest,
Romania
| | - Ovidiu Ionut Geicu
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department Preclinical
Sciences, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of
Bucharest, 105 Splaiul Independentei, 050097Bucharest,
Romania
- Faculty of Biology, Department Biochemistry and
Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul
Independentei, 050095Bucharest, Romania
| | - Liviu Bilteanu
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department Preclinical
Sciences, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of
Bucharest, 105 Splaiul Independentei, 050097Bucharest,
Romania
- Molecular Nanotechnology Laboratory,
National Institute for Research and Development in
Microtechnologies, 126A Erou Iancu Nicolae Street, 077190Bucharest,
Romania
| | - Andreea Iren Serban
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department Preclinical
Sciences, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of
Bucharest, 105 Splaiul Independentei, 050097Bucharest,
Romania
- Faculty of Biology, Department Biochemistry and
Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul
Independentei, 050095Bucharest, Romania
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8
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Liu XH, Cheng T, Liu BY, Chi J, Shu T, Wang T. Structures of the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein and applications for novel drug development. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:955648. [PMID: 36016554 PMCID: PMC9395726 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.955648] [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: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 has raised a health crisis worldwide. The high morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19 and the lack of effective drugs or vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 emphasize the urgent need for standard treatment and prophylaxis of COVID-19. The receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the glycosylated spike protein (S protein) is capable of binding to human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) and initiating membrane fusion and virus entry. Hence, it is rational to inhibit the RBD activity of the S protein by blocking the RBD interaction with hACE2, which makes the glycosylated S protein a potential target for designing and developing antiviral agents. In this study, the molecular features of the S protein of SARS-CoV-2 are highlighted, such as the structures, functions, and interactions of the S protein and ACE2. Additionally, computational tools developed for the treatment of COVID-19 are provided, for example, algorithms, databases, and relevant programs. Finally, recent advances in the novel development of antivirals against the S protein are summarized, including screening of natural products, drug repurposing and rational design. This study is expected to provide novel insights for the efficient discovery of promising drug candidates against the S protein and contribute to the development of broad-spectrum anti-coronavirus drugs to fight against SARS-CoV-2.
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9
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Murae M, Shimizu Y, Yamamoto Y, Kobayashi A, Houri M, Inoue T, Irie T, Gemba R, Kondo Y, Nakano Y, Miyazaki S, Yamada D, Saitoh A, Ishii I, Onodera T, Takahashi Y, Wakita T, Fukasawa M, Noguchi K. The function of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is impaired by disulfide-bond disruption with mutation at cysteine-488 and by thiol-reactive N-acetyl-cysteine and glutathione. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 597:30-36. [PMID: 35123263 PMCID: PMC8800159 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.01.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Viral spike proteins play important roles in the viral entry process, facilitating attachment to cellular receptors and fusion of the viral envelope with the cell membrane. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein binds to the cellular receptor angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) via its receptor-binding domain (RBD). The cysteine residue at position 488, consisting of a disulfide bridge with cysteine 480 is located in an important structural loop at ACE2-binding surface of RBD, and is highly conserved among SARS-related coronaviruses. We showed that the substitution of Cys-488 with alanine impaired pseudotyped SARS-CoV-2 infection, syncytium formation, and cell-cell fusion triggered by SARS-CoV-2 spike expression. Consistently, in vitro binding of RBD and ACE2, spike-mediated cell-cell fusion, and pseudotyped viral infection of VeroE6/TMPRSS2 cells were inhibited by the thiol-reactive compounds N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and a reduced form of glutathione (GSH). Furthermore, we demonstrated that the activity of variant spikes from the SARS-CoV-2 alpha and delta strains were also suppressed by NAC and GSH. Taken together, these data indicate that Cys-488 in spike RBD is required for SARS-CoV-2 spike functions and infectivity, and could be a target of anti-SARS-CoV-2 therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mana Murae
- Laboratory of Molecular Target Therapy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan; Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1, Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Yoshimi Shimizu
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1, Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Teikyo Heisei University, 4-21-2 Nakano, Nakano-ku, 164-8530, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Molecular Target Therapy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Asuka Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Molecular Target Therapy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Masumi Houri
- Laboratory of Molecular Target Therapy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Inoue
- Laboratory of Molecular Target Therapy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Takuya Irie
- Laboratory of Molecular Target Therapy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan; Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1, Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Ryutaro Gemba
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1, Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Yosuke Kondo
- Department of Medical and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Yoshio Nakano
- Department of Medical and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Satoru Miyazaki
- Department of Medical and Life Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Daisuke Yamada
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Saitoh
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Isao Ishii
- Department of Health Chemistry, Showa Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo, 194-8543, Japan
| | - Taishi Onodera
- Research Center for Drug and Vaccine Development, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1, Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Yoshimasa Takahashi
- Research Center for Drug and Vaccine Development, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1, Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Takaji Wakita
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1, Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Fukasawa
- Laboratory of Molecular Target Therapy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan; Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1, Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan.
| | - Kohji Noguchi
- Laboratory of Molecular Target Therapy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Yamasaki 2641, Noda, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan; Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1, Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan.
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10
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Fossum CJ, Laatsch BF, Lowater HR, Narkiewicz-Jodko AW, Lonzarich L, Hati S, Bhattacharyya S. Pre-Existing Oxidative Stress Creates a Docking-Ready Conformation of the SARS-CoV-2 Receptor-Binding Domain. ACS BIO & MED CHEM AU 2022; 2:84-93. [PMID: 37155555 PMCID: PMC8631169 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomedchemau.1c00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
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The redox-dependent changes on the binding between the receptor-binding domain of the
severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 spike protein and the peptidase domain
of the human cell surface receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme II were investigated by
performing molecular dynamics simulations. The reduced states of the protein partners
were generated in silico by converting the disulfides to thiols. The role of redox
transformation on the protein–protein binding affinity was assessed from the
time-evolved structures after 200 ns simulations using electrostatic field calculations
and implicit solvation. The present simulations revealed that the bending motion at the
protein–protein interface is significantly altered when the disulfides are
reduced to thiols. In the native complex, the presence of disulfide bonds preserves the
structural complementarity of the protein partners and maintains the intrinsic
conformational dynamics. Also, the study demonstrates that when already bound, the
disulfide-to-thiol conversion of the receptor-binding domain has a limited impact on the
binding of the spike protein to the receptor. However, if the reduction occurs before
binding to the receptor, a spectacular conformational change of the receptor-binding
domain occurs that fully impairs the binding. In other words, the formation of disulfide
bonds, prevalent during oxidative stress, creates a conformation ready to bind to the
receptor. Taken together, the present study demonstrates the role of pre-existing
oxidative stress in elevating the binding affinity of the spike protein for the human
receptor, offering future clues for alternate therapeutic possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl J. Fossum
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin101 Roosevelt Avenue Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701, United States
| | - Bethany F. Laatsch
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin101 Roosevelt Avenue Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701, United States
| | - Harrison R. Lowater
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin101 Roosevelt Avenue Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701, United States
| | - Alex W. Narkiewicz-Jodko
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin101 Roosevelt Avenue Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701, United States
| | - Leo Lonzarich
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin101 Roosevelt Avenue Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701, United States
| | - Sanchita Hati
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin101 Roosevelt Avenue Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701, United States
| | - Sudeep Bhattacharyya
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin101 Roosevelt Avenue Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701, United States
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11
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Butnariu AB, Look A, Grillo M, Tabish TA, McGarvey MJ, Pranjol MZI. SARS-CoV-2-host cell surface interactions and potential antiviral therapies. Interface Focus 2022; 12:20200081. [PMID: 34956606 PMCID: PMC8662392 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2020.0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we reveal the latest developments at the interface between SARS-CoV-2 and the host cell surface. In particular, we evaluate the current and potential mechanisms of binding, fusion and the conformational changes of the spike (S) protein to host cell surface receptors, especially the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. For instance, upon the initial attachment, the receptor binding domain of the S protein forms primarily hydrogen bonds with the protease domain of ACE2 resulting in conformational changes within the secondary structure. These surface interactions are of paramount importance and have been therapeutically exploited for antiviral design, such as monoclonal antibodies. Additionally, we provide an insight into novel therapies that target viral non-structural proteins, such as viral RNA polymerase. An example of which is remdesivir which has now been approved for use in COVID-19 patients by the US Food and Drug Administration. Establishing further understanding of the molecular details at the cell surface will undoubtably aid the development of more efficacious and selectively targeted therapies to reduce the burden of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alex Look
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
| | - Marta Grillo
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
| | - Tanveer A. Tabish
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Materials, Royal School of Mines, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Michael J. McGarvey
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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12
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Zhang M, Wang H, Foster ER, Nikolov ZL, Fernando SD, King MD. Binding behavior of spike protein and receptor binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus at different environmental conditions. Sci Rep 2022; 12:789. [PMID: 35039570 PMCID: PMC8763896 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04673-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was identified as the cause of the COVID-19 pandemic that originated in China in December 2019. Although extensive research has been performed on SARS-CoV-2, the binding behavior of spike (S) protein and receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 at different environmental conditions have yet to be studied. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of temperature, fatty acids, ions, and protein concentration on the binding behavior and rates of association and dissociation between the S protein and RBD of SARS-CoV-2 and the hydrophobic aminopropylsilane (APS) biosensors using biolayer interferometry (BLI) validated with molecular dynamics simulation. Our results suggest three conditions-high ionic concentration, presence of hydrophobic fatty acids, and low temperature-favor the attachment of S protein and RBD to hydrophobic surfaces. Increasing the temperature within an hour from 0 to 25 °C results in S protein detachment, suggesting that freezing can cause structural changes in the S protein, affecting its binding kinetics at higher temperature. At all the conditions, RBD exhibits lower dissociation capabilities than the full-length S trimer protein, indicating that the separated RBD formed stronger attachment to hydrophobic surfaces compared to when it was included in the S protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiyi Zhang
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2117 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Haoqi Wang
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2117 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Emma R Foster
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2117 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Zivko L Nikolov
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2117 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Sandun D Fernando
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2117 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Maria D King
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2117 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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13
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Martinez-Cuazitl A, Vazquez-Zapien GJ, Sanchez-Brito M, Limon-Pacheco JH, Guerrero-Ruiz M, Garibay-Gonzalez F, Delgado-Macuil RJ, de Jesus MGG, Corona-Perezgrovas MA, Pereyra-Talamantes A, Mata-Miranda MM. ATR-FTIR spectrum analysis of saliva samples from COVID-19 positive patients. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19980. [PMID: 34620977 PMCID: PMC8497525 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99529-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the latest biological hazard for the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Even though numerous diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2 have been proposed, new diagnosis strategies are being developed, looking for less expensive methods to be used as screening. This study aimed to establish salivary vibrational modes analyzed by attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy to detect COVID-19 biological fingerprints that allow the discrimination between COVID-19 and healthy patients. Clinical dates, laboratories, and saliva samples of COVID-19 patients (N = 255) and healthy persons (N = 1209) were obtained and analyzed through ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Then, a multivariate linear regression model (MLRM) was developed. The COVID-19 patients showed low SaO2, cough, dyspnea, headache, and fever principally. C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase, fibrinogen, D-dimer, and ferritin were the most important altered laboratory blood tests, which were increased. In addition, changes in amide I and immunoglobulin regions were evidenced in the FTIR spectra analysis, and the MLRM showed clear discrimination between both groups. Specific salivary vibrational modes employing ATR-FTIR spectroscopy were established; moreover, the COVID-19 biological fingerprint in saliva was characterized, allowing the COVID-19 detection using an MLRM, which could be helpful for the development of new diagnostic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Martinez-Cuazitl
- Escuela Militar de Medicina, Centro Militar de Ciencias de la Salud, Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional, 11200, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Gustavo J Vazquez-Zapien
- Escuela Militar de Medicina, Centro Militar de Ciencias de la Salud, Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional, 11200, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Jorge H Limon-Pacheco
- Escuela Militar de Medicina, Centro Militar de Ciencias de la Salud, Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional, 11200, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Melissa Guerrero-Ruiz
- Escuela Militar de Medicina, Centro Militar de Ciencias de la Salud, Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional, 11200, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Francisco Garibay-Gonzalez
- Escuela Militar de Medicina, Centro Militar de Ciencias de la Salud, Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional, 11200, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | - Monica M Mata-Miranda
- Escuela Militar de Medicina, Centro Militar de Ciencias de la Salud, Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional, 11200, Mexico City, Mexico.
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14
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Büyüksünetçi YT, Çitil BE, Tapan U, Anık Ü. Development and application of a SARS-CoV-2 colorimetric biosensor based on the peroxidase-mimic activity of γ-Fe 2O 3 nanoparticles. Mikrochim Acta 2021; 188:335. [PMID: 34505191 PMCID: PMC8428493 DOI: 10.1007/s00604-021-04989-6] [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: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A practical colorimetric assay was developed for the detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). For this purpose, magnetic γ Fe2O3 nanoparticles were synthesized and used as a peroxidase-like mimic activity molecule. In the presence of γ Fe2O3 nanoparticles, the color change of H2O2 included 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine was monitored at the wavelength of 654 nm when spike protein interacted with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor. This oxidation-reduction reaction was examined both spectroscopically and by using electrochemical techniques. The experimental parameters were optimized and the analytical characteristics investigated. The developed assay was applied to real SARS-CoV-2 samples, and very good results that were in accordance with the real time polymerase chain reaction were obtained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudum Tepeli Büyüksünetçi
- Faculty of Science, Chemistry Department, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, 48000, Kotekli, Mugla, Turkey
| | - Burak Ekrem Çitil
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Kotekli, Mugla, Turkey, 4800
| | - Utku Tapan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Chest Diseases, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Kotekli, Mugla, Turkey, 4800
| | - Ülkü Anık
- Faculty of Science, Chemistry Department, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, 48000, Kotekli, Mugla, Turkey.
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15
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Nathan A, Rossin EJ, Kaseke C, Park RJ, Khatri A, Koundakjian D, Urbach JM, Singh NK, Bashirova A, Tano-Menka R, Senjobe F, Waring MT, Piechocka-Trocha A, Garcia-Beltran WF, Iafrate AJ, Naranbhai V, Carrington M, Walker BD, Gaiha GD. Structure-guided T cell vaccine design for SARS-CoV-2 variants and sarbecoviruses. Cell 2021; 184:4401-4413.e10. [PMID: 34265281 PMCID: PMC8241654 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants that escape convalescent and vaccine-induced antibody responses has renewed focus on the development of broadly protective T-cell-based vaccines. Here, we apply structure-based network analysis and assessments of HLA class I peptide stability to define mutationally constrained CD8+ T cell epitopes across the SARS-CoV-2 proteome. Highly networked residues are conserved temporally among circulating variants and sarbecoviruses and disproportionately impair spike pseudotyped lentivirus infectivity when mutated. Evaluation of HLA class I stabilizing activity for 18 globally prevalent alleles identifies CD8+ T cell epitopes within highly networked regions with limited mutational frequencies in circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants and deep-sequenced primary isolates. Moreover, these epitopes elicit demonstrable CD8+ T cell reactivity in convalescent individuals but reduced recognition in recipients of mRNA-based vaccines. These data thereby elucidate key mutationally constrained regions and immunogenic epitopes in the SARS-CoV-2 proteome for a global T-cell-based vaccine against emerging variants and SARS-like coronaviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anusha Nathan
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Program in Health Sciences & Technology, Harvard Medical School & Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Elizabeth J Rossin
- The Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Harvard Medical School Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Clarety Kaseke
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Ryan J Park
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Harvard Radiation Oncology Program, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Ashok Khatri
- Massachusetts General Hospital Endocrine Division and Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | | | | | - Nishant K Singh
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Arman Bashirova
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Integrative Cancer Immunology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Rhoda Tano-Menka
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Fernando Senjobe
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Program in Virology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael T Waring
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA
| | - Alicja Piechocka-Trocha
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA
| | - Wilfredo F Garcia-Beltran
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, MA 02115, USA
| | - A John Iafrate
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, MA 02115, USA
| | - Vivek Naranbhai
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, Durban 4001, South Africa
| | - Mary Carrington
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Integrative Cancer Immunology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Bruce D Walker
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; The Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA; Center for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, Durban 4001, South Africa; Institute for Medical Engineering and Science and Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Gaurav D Gaiha
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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16
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Manček-Keber M, Hafner-Bratkovič I, Lainšček D, Benčina M, Govednik T, Orehek S, Plaper T, Jazbec V, Bergant V, Grass V, Pichlmair A, Jerala R. Disruption of disulfides within RBD of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein prevents fusion and represents a target for viral entry inhibition by registered drugs. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21651. [PMID: 34004056 PMCID: PMC8206760 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100560r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic imposed a large burden on health and society. Therapeutics targeting different components and processes of the viral infection replication cycle are being investigated, particularly to repurpose already approved drugs. Spike protein is an important target for both vaccines and therapeutics. Insights into the mechanisms of spike‐ACE2 binding and cell fusion could support the identification of compounds with inhibitory effects. Here, we demonstrate that the integrity of disulfide bonds within the receptor‐binding domain (RBD) plays an important role in the membrane fusion process although their disruption does not prevent binding of spike protein to ACE2. Several reducing agents and thiol‐reactive compounds are able to inhibit viral entry. N‐acetyl cysteine amide, L‐ascorbic acid, JTT‐705, and auranofin prevented syncytia formation, viral entry into cells, and infection in a mouse model, supporting disulfides of the RBD as a therapeutically relevant target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateja Manček-Keber
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Centre of Excellence EN-FIST, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Iva Hafner-Bratkovič
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Centre of Excellence EN-FIST, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Duško Lainšček
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Centre of Excellence EN-FIST, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mojca Benčina
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Centre of Excellence EN-FIST, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tea Govednik
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Graduate School of Biomedicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sara Orehek
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Graduate School of Biomedicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tjaša Plaper
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Graduate School of Biomedicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Vid Jazbec
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Graduate School of Biomedicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Valter Bergant
- Immunopathology of Virus Infections Laboratory, Institute of Virology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Vincent Grass
- Immunopathology of Virus Infections Laboratory, Institute of Virology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Andreas Pichlmair
- Immunopathology of Virus Infections Laboratory, Institute of Virology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Roman Jerala
- Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Centre of Excellence EN-FIST, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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17
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Lin H, Cherukupalli S, Feng D, Gao S, Kang D, Zhan P, Liu X. SARS-CoV-2 Entry inhibitors targeting virus-ACE2 or virus-TMPRSS2 interactions. Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:682-699. [PMID: 33881969 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210420103021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. The life cycle of SARS-CoV-2 includes the entry into the target cells, replicase translation, replicating and transcribing genomes, translating structural proteins, assembling and releasing new virions. Entering host cells is a crucial stage in the early life cycle of the virus, and blocking this stage can effectively prevent virus infection. SARS enters the target cells mediated by the interaction between the viral S protein and the target cell surface receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), as well as the cleavage effect of type-II transmembrane serine protease (TMPRSS2) on the S protein. Therefore, the ACE2 receptor and TMPRSS2 are important targets for SARS-CoV-2 entry inhibitors. Herein, we provide a concise report/information on drugs with potential therapeutic value targeting virus-ACE2 or virus-TMPRSS2 interactions, to provide a reference for the design and discovery of potential entry inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Lin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Srinivasulu Cherukupalli
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Da Feng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shenghua Gao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Dongwei Kang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Peng Zhan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xinyong Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 West Culture Road, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, China
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18
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Bruter AV, Korshunova DS, Kubekina MV, Sergiev PV, Kalinina AA, Ilchuk LA, Silaeva YY, Korshunov EN, Soldatov VO, Deykin AV. Novel transgenic mice with Cre-dependent co-expression of GFP and human ACE2: a safe tool for study of COVID-19 pathogenesis. Transgenic Res 2021; 30:10.1007/s11248-021-00249-8. [PMID: 33855640 PMCID: PMC8045570 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-021-00249-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic remains one of the most serious public health problems. Increasing evidence shows that infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes a very complex and multifaceted disease that requires detailed study. Nevertheless, experimental research on COVID-19 remains challenging due to the lack of appropriate animal models. Herein, we report novel humanized mice with Cre-dependent expression of hACE2, the main entry receptor of SARS-CoV-2. These mice carry hACE2 and GFP transgenes floxed by the STOP cassette, allowing them to be used as breeders for the creation of animals with tissue-specific coexpression of hACE2 and GFP. Moreover, inducible expression of hACE2 makes this line biosafe, whereas coexpression with GFP simplifies the detection of transgene-expressing cells. In our study, we tested our line by crossing with Ubi-Cre mice, characterized by tamoxifen-dependent ubiquitous activation of Cre recombinase. After tamoxifen administration, the copy number of the STOP cassette was decreased, and the offspring expressed hACE2 and GFP, confirming the efficiency of our system. We believe that our model can be a useful tool for studying COVID-19 pathogenesis because the selective expression of hACE2 can shed light on the roles of different tissues in SARS-CoV-2-associated complications. Obviously, it can also be used for preclinical trials of antiviral drugs and new vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra V. Bruter
- Core Facility Centre, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova st. 34/5, Moscow, Russian Federation 119334
| | - Diana S. Korshunova
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova st. 34/5, Moscow, Russian Federation 119334
| | - Marina V. Kubekina
- Core Facility Centre, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova st. 34/5, Moscow, Russian Federation 119334
| | - Petr V. Sergiev
- Institute of Functional Genomics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation 119991
| | - Anastasiia A. Kalinina
- Federal State Budgetary Institution “N. N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology”, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Kashirskoe sh. 24, Moscow, Russian Federation 115478
| | - Leonid A. Ilchuk
- Core Facility Centre, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova st. 34/5, Moscow, Russian Federation 119334
| | - Yuliya Yu. Silaeva
- Core Facility Centre, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova st. 34/5, Moscow, Russian Federation 119334
| | - Eugenii N. Korshunov
- Core Facility Centre, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova st. 34/5, Moscow, Russian Federation 119334
| | - Vladislav O. Soldatov
- Core Facility Centre, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova st. 34/5, Moscow, Russian Federation 119334
- Laboratory of Genome Editing for Veterinary and Biomedicine, Belgorod State National Research University, 85, Pobedy St., Belgorod, Belgorod region Russian Federation 308015
| | - Alexey V. Deykin
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova st. 34/5, Moscow, Russian Federation 119334
- Laboratory of Genome Editing for Veterinary and Biomedicine, Belgorod State National Research University, 85, Pobedy St., Belgorod, Belgorod region Russian Federation 308015
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