1
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Wang Y, Zhang Y, Su R, Wang Y, Qi W. Antimicrobial therapy based on self-assembling peptides. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:5061-5075. [PMID: 38726712 DOI: 10.1039/d4tb00260a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of drug-resistant microorganisms has threatened global health, and microbial infections have severely limited the use of medical materials. For example, the attachment and colonization of pathogenic bacteria to medical implant materials can lead to wound infections, inflammation and complications, as well as implant failure, shortening their lifespan and even resulting in patient death. In the era of antibiotic resistance, antimicrobial drug discovery needs to prioritize unconventional therapies that act on new targets or adopt new mechanisms. In this regard, supramolecular antimicrobial peptides have emerged as attractive therapeutic platforms, both as bactericides for combination antibiotics and as delivery vehicles. By taking advantage of their programmable intermolecular and intramolecular interactions, peptides can be modified to form higher-order structures (including nanofibers and nanoparticles) with unique functionality. This paper begins with an analysis of the relationship between peptide self-assembly and antimicrobial activity, describes in detail the research and development of various self-assembled antimicrobial peptides in recent years, and finally explores different combinatorial strategies for self-assembling antimicrobial peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqi Wang
- Chemical Engineering Research Center, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China.
| | - Yexi Zhang
- Chemical Engineering Research Center, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China.
| | - Rongxin Su
- Chemical Engineering Research Center, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China.
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin 300072, P. R. China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Membrane Science and Desalination Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China
| | - Yuefei Wang
- Chemical Engineering Research Center, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China.
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Membrane Science and Desalination Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China
| | - Wei Qi
- Chemical Engineering Research Center, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China.
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin 300072, P. R. China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Membrane Science and Desalination Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China
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2
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Cresti L, Cappello G, Pini A. Antimicrobial Peptides towards Clinical Application-A Long History to Be Concluded. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4870. [PMID: 38732089 PMCID: PMC11084544 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094870] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are molecules with an amphipathic structure that enables them to interact with bacterial membranes. This interaction can lead to membrane crossing and disruption with pore formation, culminating in cell death. They are produced naturally in various organisms, including humans, animals, plants and microorganisms. In higher animals, they are part of the innate immune system, where they counteract infection by bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites. AMPs can also be designed de novo by bioinformatic approaches or selected from combinatorial libraries, and then produced by chemical or recombinant procedures. Since their discovery, AMPs have aroused interest as potential antibiotics, although few have reached the market due to stability limits or toxicity. Here, we describe the development phase and a number of clinical trials of antimicrobial peptides. We also provide an update on AMPs in the pharmaceutical industry and an overall view of their therapeutic market. Modifications to peptide structures to improve stability in vivo and bioavailability are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cresti
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Giovanni Cappello
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (A.P.)
- SetLance srl, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
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3
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Yadav S, Saini NK, Kulshreshtha D, Mukhopadhyay CK. Lipopolysaccharide inhibits translation of iron chaperone PCBP1 to regulate inflammatory cytokine response in macrophage. Cytokine 2024; 174:156456. [PMID: 38061091 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/01/2024]
Abstract
Macrophages play a key role in maintaining systemic iron homeostasis and immunity. During pro-inflammatory stage macrophages retain iron due to the decrease of the unique iron exporter ferroportin. Increased cellular iron is sequestered in to storage protein ferritin by iron chaperone poly(rC)-binding protein 1 (PCBP1). However, the fate of PCBP1 and its interaction with ferritin in pro-inflammatory macrophages has not been studied so far. Here we report that PCBP1 protein level is down-regulated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treated macrophages. LPS did not alter PCBP1 mRNA and protein stability suggesting inhibition of translation as a mechanism of PCBP1 down-regulation that was confirmed by 35S-methionine incorporation assay. PCBP1 interacts with ferritin-H (Ft-H) subunit to load iron into ferritin. We detected a decreased interaction between PCBP1 and Ft-H after LPS-stimulation. As a result iron loading in to ferritin was affected with simultaneous increase in labile iron pool (LIP). Pre-treatment of cells with iron chelator dampened LPS-induced expression of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA. Silencing of PCBP1 increased the magnitude of expression of these cytokines compared to control siRNA transfected LPS-treated macrophages. In contrast, overexpression of PCBP1 resulted a decrease in expression of these cytokines compared to vector transfected macrophages. Our results reveal a novel regulation of PCBP1 and its role in expression of cytokines in LPS-induced pro-inflammatory macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameeksha Yadav
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Neeraj K Saini
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Diksha Kulshreshtha
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Chinmay K Mukhopadhyay
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India.
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4
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Scoffone VC, Barbieri G, Irudal S, Trespidi G, Buroni S. New Antimicrobial Strategies to Treat Multi-Drug Resistant Infections Caused by Gram-Negatives in Cystic Fibrosis. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:71. [PMID: 38247630 PMCID: PMC10812592 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13010071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
People with cystic fibrosis (CF) suffer from recurrent bacterial infections which induce inflammation, lung tissue damage and failure of the respiratory system. Prolonged exposure to combinatorial antibiotic therapies triggers the appearance of multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria. The development of alternative antimicrobial strategies may provide a way to mitigate antimicrobial resistance. Here we discuss different alternative approaches to the use of classic antibiotics: anti-virulence and anti-biofilm compounds which exert a low selective pressure; phage therapies that represent an alternative strategy with a high therapeutic potential; new methods helping antibiotics activity such as adjuvants; and antimicrobial peptides and nanoparticle formulations. Their mechanisms and in vitro and in vivo efficacy are described, in order to figure out a complete landscape of new alternative approaches to fight MDR Gram-negative CF pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Silvia Buroni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.C.S.); (G.B.); (S.I.); (G.T.)
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5
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Cohen H, Wani NA, Ben Hur D, Migliolo L, Cardoso MH, Porat Z, Shimoni E, Franco OL, Shai Y. Interaction of Pexiganan (MSI-78)-Derived Analogues Reduces Inflammation and TLR4-Mediated Cytokine Secretion: A Comparative Study. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:17856-17868. [PMID: 37251186 PMCID: PMC10210221 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c00850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections have increased the prevalence of sepsis and septic shock mortality worldwide and have become a global concern. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) show remarkable properties for developing new antimicrobial agents and host response modulatory therapies. A new series of AMPs derived from pexiganan (MSI-78) were synthesized. The positively charged amino acids were segregated at their N- and C-termini, and the rest of the amino acids created a hydrophobic core surrounded by positive charges and were modified to simulate the lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The peptides were investigated for their antimicrobial activity and LPS-induced cytokine release inhibition profile. Various biochemical and biophysical methods were used, including attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, microscale thermophoresis (MST), and electron microscopy. Two new AMPs, MSI-Seg-F2F and MSI-N7K, preserved their neutralizing endotoxin activity while reducing toxicity and hemolytic activity. Combining all of these properties makes the designed peptides potential candidates to eradicate bacterial infection and detoxify LPS, which might be useful for sepsis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadar Cohen
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Naiem Ahmad Wani
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Daniel Ben Hur
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Ludovico Migliolo
- Departamento
de Engenharia Sanitária e Ambiental, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande 79117-900, Brazil
| | - Marlon H. Cardoso
- S-Inova,
Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande 79117900, MS, Brazil
- Centro
de
Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-Graduação
em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília 70790160, DF, Brazil
- Instituto
de Biociências (INBIO), Universidade
Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Cidade Universitária, Campo Grande 79070900, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Ziv Porat
- The
Department of Life Sciences Core Facilities, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Eyal Shimoni
- Department
of Chemical Research Support, The Weizmann
Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Octavio Luiz Franco
- Departamento
de Engenharia Sanitária e Ambiental, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande 79117-900, Brazil
- S-Inova,
Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande 79117900, MS, Brazil
- Centro
de
Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-Graduação
em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília 70790160, DF, Brazil
| | - Yechiel Shai
- Department
of Biomolecular Sciences, The Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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6
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Cresti L, Cappello G, Vailati S, Melloni E, Brunetti J, Falciani C, Bracci L, Pini A. In Vivo Efficacy and Toxicity of an Antimicrobial Peptide in a Model of Endotoxin-Induced Pulmonary Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097967. [PMID: 37175674 PMCID: PMC10178222 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
SET-M33 is a synthetic peptide that is being developed as a new antibiotic against major Gram-negative bacteria. Here we report two in vivo studies to assess the toxicity and efficacy of the peptide in a murine model of pulmonary inflammation. First, we present the toxicity study in which SET-M33 was administered to CD-1 mice by snout inhalation exposure for 1 h/day for 7 days at doses of 5 and 20 mg/kg/day. The results showed adverse clinical signs and effects on body weight at the higher dose, as well as some treatment-related histopathology findings (lungs and bronchi, nose/turbinates, larynx and tracheal bifurcation). On this basis, the no observable adverse effect level (NOAEL) was considered to be 5 mg/kg/day. We then report an efficacy study of the peptide in an endotoxin (LPS)-induced pulmonary inflammation model. Intratracheal administration of SET-M33 at 0.5, 2 and 5 mg/kg significantly inhibited BAL neutrophil cell counts after an LPS challenge. A significant reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines, KC, MIP-1α, IP-10, MCP-1 and TNF-α was also recorded after SET-M33 administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cresti
- U.O.C. Clinical Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Via M. Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cappello
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
- SetLance srl, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | | | - Elsa Melloni
- Zambon spa, Via A. Meucci 3, 20091 Bresso, Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- U.O.C. Clinical Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Via M. Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- U.O.C. Clinical Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Via M. Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
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7
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Cresti L, Conte G, Cappello G, Brunetti J, Falciani C, Bracci L, Quaglia F, Ungaro F, d’Angelo I, Pini A. Inhalable Polymeric Nanoparticles for Pulmonary Delivery of Antimicrobial Peptide SET-M33: Antibacterial Activity and Toxicity In Vitro and In Vivo. Pharmaceutics 2022; 15:pharmaceutics15010003. [PMID: 36678633 PMCID: PMC9863998 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of inhalable formulations for delivering peptides to the conductive airways and shielding their interactions with airway barriers, thus enhancing peptide/bacteria interactions, is an important part of peptide-based drug development for lung applications. Here, we report the construction of a biocompatible nanosystem where the antimicrobial peptide SET-M33 is encapsulated within polymeric nanoparticles of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) conjugated with polyethylene glycol (PEG). This system was conceived for better delivery of the peptide to the lungs by aerosol. The encapsulated peptide showed prolonged antibacterial activity, due to its controlled release, and much lower toxicity than the free molecule. The peptide-based nanosystem killed Pseudomonas aeruginosa in planktonic and sessile forms in a dose-dependent manner, remaining active up to 72 h after application. The encapsulated peptide showed no cytotoxicity when incubated with human bronchial epithelial cells from healthy individuals and from cystic fibrosis patients, unlike the free peptide, which showed an EC50 of about 22 µM. In vivo acute toxicity studies in experimental animals showed that the peptide nanosystem did not cause any appreciable side effects, and confirmed its ability to mitigate the toxic and lethal effects of free SET-M33.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cresti
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
- SetLance srl, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Gemma Conte
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cappello
- SetLance srl, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Fabiana Quaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Francesca Ungaro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Ivana d’Angelo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy
- Correspondence: (I.d.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Correspondence: (I.d.); (A.P.)
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8
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Safety evaluations of a synthetic antimicrobial peptide administered intravenously in rats and dogs. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19294. [PMID: 36369523 PMCID: PMC9652379 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23841-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The antimicrobial peptide SET-M33 is under study for the development of a new antibiotic against major Gram-negative pathogens. Here we report the toxicological evaluation of SET-M33 administered intravenously to rats and dogs. Dose range finding experiments determined the doses to use in toxicokinetic evaluation, clinical biochemistry analysis, necroscopy and in neurological and respiratory measurements. Clinical laboratory investigations in dogs and rats showed a dose-related increase in creatinine and urea levels, indicating that the kidneys are the target organ. This was also confirmed by necroscopy studies of animal tissues, where signs of degeneration and regeneration were found in kidney when SET-M33 was administered at the highest doses in the two animal species. Neurological toxicity measurements by the Irwin method and respiratory function evaluation in rats did not reveal any toxic effect even at the highest dose. Finally, repeated administration of SET-M33 by short infusion in dogs revealed a no-observed-adverse-effect-level of 0.5 mg/kg/day.
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9
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Wang Y, Chang RYK, Britton WJ, Chan HK. Advances in the development of antimicrobial peptides and proteins for inhaled therapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 180:114066. [PMID: 34813794 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides and proteins (APPs) are becoming increasingly important in targeting multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. APPs is a rapidly emerging area with novel molecules being produced and further optimised to enhance antimicrobial efficacy, while overcoming issues associated with biologics such as potential toxicity and low bioavailability resulting from short half-life. Inhalation delivery of these agents can be an effective treatment of respiratory infections owing to the high local drug concentration in the lungs with lower exposure to systemic circulation hence reducing systemic toxicity. This review describes the recent studies on inhaled APPs, including in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial activities, toxicity assessments, and formulation strategies whenever available. The review also includes studies on combination of APPs with other antimicrobial agents to achieve enhanced synergistic antimicrobial effect. Since different APPs have different biological and chemical stabilities, a targeted formulation strategy should be considered for developing stable and inhalable antimicrobial peptides and proteins. These strategies include the use of sodium chloride to reduce electrostatic interaction between APP and extracellular DNA in sputum, the use of D-enantiomers or dendrimers to minimise protease-mediated degradation and or the use of prodrugs to reduce toxicity. Although great effort has been put towards optimising the biological functions of APPs, studies assessing biological stability in inhalable aerosols are scarce, particularly for novel molecules. As such, formulation and manufacture of inhalable liquid and powder formulations of APPs are underexplored, yet they are crucial areas of research for clinical translation.
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10
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Pratap Verma D, Ansari MM, Verma NK, Saroj J, Akhtar S, Pant G, Mitra K, Singh BN, Ghosh JK. Tandem Repeat of a Short Human Chemerin-Derived Peptide and Its Nontoxic d-Lysine-Containing Enantiomer Display Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial and Antitubercular Activities. J Med Chem 2021; 64:15349-15366. [PMID: 34662112 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
To design novel antimicrobial peptides by utilizing the sequence of the human host defense protein, chemerin, a seven-residue amphipathic stretch located in the amino acid region, 109-115, was identified, which possesses the highest density of hydrophobic and positively charged residues. Although this 7-mer peptide was inactive toward microorganisms, its 14-mer tandem repeat (Chem-KVL) was highly active against different bacteria including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strain, and slow- and fast-growing mycobacterial species. The selective enantiomeric substitutions of its two l-lysine residues were attempted to confer cell selectivity and proteolytic stability to Chem-KVL. Chem-8dK with a d-lysine replacement in its middle (eighth position) showed the lowest hemolytic activity against human red blood cells among Chem-KVL analogues and maintained high antimicrobial properties. Chem-8dK showed in vivo efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in BALB/c mice and inhibited the development of resistance in this microorganism up to 30 serial passages and growth of intracellular mycobacteria in THP-1 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devesh Pratap Verma
- Biochemistry and Structural Biology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector 10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Mohd Mustkim Ansari
- Division of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector 10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Neeraj Kumar Verma
- Biochemistry and Structural Biology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector 10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Jyotshana Saroj
- Biochemistry and Structural Biology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector 10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Sariyah Akhtar
- Biochemistry and Structural Biology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector 10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Garima Pant
- Electron Microscopy Unit, SAIF &R Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector 10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Kalyan Mitra
- Electron Microscopy Unit, SAIF &R Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector 10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow 226031, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), New Delhi 110001, India
| | - Bhupendra Narain Singh
- Division of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector 10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow 226031, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), New Delhi 110001, India
| | - Jimut Kanti Ghosh
- Biochemistry and Structural Biology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Sector 10, Jankipuram Extension, Sitapur Road, Lucknow 226031, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), New Delhi 110001, India
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11
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Design and in situ biosynthesis of precision therapies against gastrointestinal pathogens. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2021.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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12
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Gan BH, Gaynord J, Rowe SM, Deingruber T, Spring DR. The multifaceted nature of antimicrobial peptides: current synthetic chemistry approaches and future directions. Chem Soc Rev 2021; 50:7820-7880. [PMID: 34042120 PMCID: PMC8689412 DOI: 10.1039/d0cs00729c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial infections caused by 'superbugs' are increasing globally, and conventional antibiotics are becoming less effective against these bacteria, such that we risk entering a post-antibiotic era. In recent years, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have gained significant attention for their clinical potential as a new class of antibiotics to combat antimicrobial resistance. In this review, we discuss several facets of AMPs including their diversity, physicochemical properties, mechanisms of action, and effects of environmental factors on these features. This review outlines various chemical synthetic strategies that have been applied to develop novel AMPs, including chemical modifications of existing peptides, semi-synthesis, and computer-aided design. We will also highlight novel AMP structures, including hybrids, antimicrobial dendrimers and polypeptides, peptidomimetics, and AMP-drug conjugates and consider recent developments in their chemical synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bee Ha Gan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Josephine Gaynord
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Sam M Rowe
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Tomas Deingruber
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - David R Spring
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK.
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13
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Activation of Nrf2/HO-1 by Peptide YD1 Attenuates Inflammatory Symptoms through Suppression of TLR4/MYyD88/NF-κB Signaling Cascade. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105161. [PMID: 34068193 PMCID: PMC8152960 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigate the immunomodulatory effects of a novel antimicrobial peptide, YD1, isolated from Kimchi, in both in vitro and in vivo models. We establish that YD1 exerts its anti-inflammatory effects via up-regulation of the Nrf2 pathway, resulting in the production of HO-1, which suppresses activation of the NF-κB pathway, including the subsequent proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. We also found that YD1 robustly suppresses nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production by down-regulating the expression of the upstream genes, iNOS and COX-2, acting as a strong antioxidant. Collectively, YD1 exhibits vigorous anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, presenting it as an interesting potential therapeutic agent.
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Cardoso P, Glossop H, Meikle TG, Aburto-Medina A, Conn CE, Sarojini V, Valery C. Molecular engineering of antimicrobial peptides: microbial targets, peptide motifs and translation opportunities. Biophys Rev 2021; 13:35-69. [PMID: 33495702 PMCID: PMC7817352 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-021-00784-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The global public health threat of antimicrobial resistance has led the scientific community to highly engage into research on alternative strategies to the traditional small molecule therapeutics. Here, we review one of the most popular alternatives amongst basic and applied research scientists, synthetic antimicrobial peptides. The ease of peptide chemical synthesis combined with emerging engineering principles and potent broad-spectrum activity, including against multidrug-resistant strains, has motivated intense scientific focus on these compounds for the past decade. This global effort has resulted in significant advances in our understanding of peptide antimicrobial activity at the molecular scale. Recent evidence of molecular targets other than the microbial lipid membrane, and efforts towards consensus antimicrobial peptide motifs, have supported the rise of molecular engineering approaches and design tools, including machine learning. Beyond molecular concepts, supramolecular chemistry has been lately added to the debate; and helped unravel the impact of peptide self-assembly on activity, including on biofilms and secondary targets, while providing new directions in pharmaceutical formulation through taking advantage of peptide self-assembled nanostructures. We argue that these basic research advances constitute a solid basis for promising industry translation of rationally designed synthetic peptide antimicrobials, not only as novel drugs against multidrug-resistant strains but also as components of emerging antimicrobial biomaterials. This perspective is supported by recent developments of innovative peptide-based and peptide-carrier nanobiomaterials that we also review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Cardoso
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hugh Glossop
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | | | | | | | - Celine Valery
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
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15
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Brunetti J, Carnicelli V, Ponzi A, Di Giulio A, Lizzi AR, Cristiano L, Cresti L, Cappello G, Pollini S, Mosconi L, Rossolini GM, Bracci L, Falciani C, Pini A. Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of an Antimicrobial Peptide Synthesized with D Amino Acids. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9120840. [PMID: 33255172 PMCID: PMC7760307 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9120840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The peptide SET-M33 is a molecule synthesized in tetra-branched form which is being developed as a new antibiotic against Gram-negative bacteria. Its isomeric form with D amino acids instead of the L version (SET-M33D) is also able to kill Gram-positive bacteria because of its higher resistance to bacterial proteases (Falciani et al., PLoS ONE, 2012, 7, e46259). Here we report the strong in vitro activity of SET-M33D (MIC range 0.7-6.0 µM) against multiresistant pathogens of clinical interest, including Gram-positives Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, and Enterococcus faecalis, and various Gram-negative enterobacteriaceae. SET-M33D antibacterial activity is also confirmed in vivo against a MRSA strain of S. aureus with doses perfectly compatible with clinical use (5 and 2.5 mg/Kg). Moreover, SET-M33D strongly neutralized lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid (LTA), thus exerting a strong anti-inflammatory effect, reducing expression of cytokines, enzymes, and transcription factors (TNF-α, IL6, COX-2, KC, MIP-1, IP10, iNOS, NF-κB) involved in the onset and evolution of the inflammatory process. These results, along with in vitro and in vivo toxicity data and the low frequency of resistance selection reported here, make SET-M33D a strong candidate for the development of a new broad spectrum antibiotic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Veronica Carnicelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (A.D.G.); (A.R.L.)
| | - Alessia Ponzi
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (A.D.G.); (A.R.L.)
| | - Antonio Di Giulio
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (A.D.G.); (A.R.L.)
| | - Anna Rita Lizzi
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (A.D.G.); (A.R.L.)
| | - Loredana Cristiano
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | - Laura Cresti
- SetLance srl, Toscana Life Sciences, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Cappello
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Simona Pollini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.P.); (L.M.); (G.M.R.)
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Lara Mosconi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.P.); (L.M.); (G.M.R.)
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.P.); (L.M.); (G.M.R.)
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Drayton M, Kizhakkedathu JN, Straus SK. Towards Robust Delivery of Antimicrobial Peptides to Combat Bacterial Resistance. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25133048. [PMID: 32635310 PMCID: PMC7412191 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25133048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), otherwise known as host defence peptides (HDPs), are naturally occurring biomolecules expressed by a large array of species across the phylogenetic kingdoms. They have great potential to combat microbial infections by directly killing or inhibiting bacterial activity and/or by modulating the immune response of the host. Due to their multimodal properties, broad spectrum activity, and minimal resistance generation, these peptides have emerged as a promising response to the rapidly concerning problem of multidrug resistance (MDR). However, their therapeutic efficacy is limited by a number of factors, including rapid degradation, systemic toxicity, and low bioavailability. As such, many strategies have been developed to mitigate these limitations, such as peptide modification and delivery vehicle conjugation/encapsulation. Oftentimes, however, particularly in the case of the latter, this can hinder the activity of the parent AMP. Here, we review current delivery strategies used for AMP formulation, focusing on methodologies utilized for targeted infection site release of AMPs. This specificity unites the improved biocompatibility of the delivery vehicle with the unhindered activity of the free AMP, providing a promising means to effectively translate AMP therapy into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Drayton
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, 2036 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Canada;
| | - Jayachandran N. Kizhakkedathu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and Centre for Blood Research, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Life Sciences Centre, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada;
| | - Suzana K. Straus
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, 2036 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Canada;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-604-822-2537
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Falciani C, Zevolini F, Brunetti J, Riolo G, Gracia R, Marradi M, Loinaz I, Ziemann C, Cossío U, Llop J, Bracci L, Pini A. Antimicrobial Peptide-Loaded Nanoparticles as Inhalation Therapy for Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections. Int J Nanomedicine 2020; 15:1117-1128. [PMID: 32110011 PMCID: PMC7034994 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s218966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antibiotic-resistant bacteria kill 25,000 people every year in the EU. Patients subject to recurrent lung infections are the most vulnerable to severe or even lethal infections. For these patients, pulmonary delivery of antibiotics would be advantageous, since inhalation can achieve higher concentration in the lungs than iv administration and can provide a faster onset of action. This would allow for the delivery of higher doses and hence reduce the number of treatments required. We report here about a new nanosystem (M33-NS) obtained by capturing SET-M33 peptide on single-chain dextran nanoparticles. SET-M33 is a non-natural antimicrobial peptide synthesized in branched form. This form gives the peptide resistance to degradation in biological fluids. SET-M33 has previously shown efficacy in vitro against about one hundred of Gram-negative multidrug and extensively drug-resistant clinical isolates and was also active in preclinical infection models of pneumonia, sepsis and skin infections. METHODS The new nanosystem was evaluated for its efficacy in bacteria cells and in a mouse model of pneumonia. Toxicity and genotoxicity were also tested in vitro. Biodistribution and pharmacokinetic studies in healthy rats were carried out using a radiolabeled derivative of the nanosystem. RESULTS The M33-nanosystem, studied here, showed to be effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa in time-kill kinetic experiments. Cytotoxicity towards different animal cell lines was acceptable. Lung residence time of the antimicrobial peptide, administered via aerosol in healthy rats, was markedly improved by capturing SET-M33 on dextran nanoparticles. M33-NS was also efficient in eradicating pulmonary infection in a BALB/c mouse model of pneumonia caused by P. aeruginosa. DISCUSSION This study revealed that the encapsulation of the antimicrobial peptide in dextran nanoparticles markedly improved lung residence time of the peptide administered via aerosol. The result has to be considered among the aims of the development of a new therapeutic option for patients suffering recurrent infections, that will benefit from high local doses of persistent antimicrobials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Zevolini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Raquel Gracia
- CIDETEC, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Marco Marradi
- CIDETEC, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Iraida Loinaz
- CIDETEC, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Christina Ziemann
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine ITEM, Hannover, Germany
| | - Unai Cossío
- CIC biomaGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Jordi Llop
- CIC biomaGUNE, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), San Sebastian, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en red Enfermedades Respiratorias – CIBERES, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Shang Z, Chan SY, Song Q, Li P, Huang W. The Strategies of Pathogen-Oriented Therapy on Circumventing Antimicrobial Resistance. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2020; 2020:2016201. [PMID: 33083786 PMCID: PMC7539235 DOI: 10.34133/2020/2016201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The emerging antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses serious threats to the global public health. Conventional antibiotics have been eclipsed in combating with drug-resistant bacteria. Moreover, the developing and deploying of novel antimicrobial drugs have trudged, as few new antibiotics are being developed over time and even fewer of them can hit the market. Alternative therapeutic strategies to resolve the AMR crisis are urgently required. Pathogen-oriented therapy (POT) springs up as a promising approach in circumventing antibiotic resistance. The tactic underling POT is applying antibacterial compounds or materials directly to infected regions to treat specific bacteria species or strains with goals of improving the drug efficacy and reducing nontargeting and the development of drug resistance. This review exemplifies recent trends in the development of POTs for circumventing AMR, including the adoption of antibiotic-antibiotic conjugates, antimicrobial peptides, therapeutic monoclonal antibodies, nanotechnologies, CRISPR-Cas systems, and microbiota modulations. Employing these alternative approaches alone or in combination shows promising advantages for addressing the growing clinical embarrassment of antibiotics in fighting drug-resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zifang Shang
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) & Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering (IBME), Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU), Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Siew Yin Chan
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) & Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering (IBME), Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU), Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Qing Song
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) & Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering (IBME), Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU), Xi'an 710072, China
- Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics and Information Displays (KLOEID) and Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications (NUPT), Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Peng Li
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) & Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering (IBME), Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU), Xi'an 710072, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics (FSCFE), Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) & Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials and Engineering (IBME), Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU), Xi'an 710072, China
- Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics and Information Displays (KLOEID) and Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications (NUPT), Nanjing 210023, China
- Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLOFE) & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Jiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM), Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech), Nanjing 211816, China
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19
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NMR Study of the Secondary Structure and Biopharmaceutical Formulation of an Active Branched Antimicrobial Peptide. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24234290. [PMID: 31775296 PMCID: PMC6930567 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24234290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The synthetic antimicrobial peptide SET-M33 is being developed as a possible new antibacterial candidate for the treatment of multi-drug resistant bacteria. SET-M33 is a branched peptide featuring higher resistance and bioavailability than its linear analogues. SET-M33 shows antimicrobial activity against different species of multi-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, including clinically isolated strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumanii and Escherichia coli. The secondary structure of this 40 amino acid peptide was investigated by NMR to fully characterize the product in the framework of preclinical studies. The possible presence of helixes or β-sheets in the structure had to be explored to predict the behavior of the branched peptide in solution, with a view to designing a formulation for parenteral administration. Since the final formulation of SET-M33 will be strictly defined in terms of counter-ions and additives, we also report the studies on a new salt form, SET-M33 chloride, that retains its activity against Gram-negative bacteria and gains in solubility, with a possible improvement in the pharmacokinetic profile. The opportunity of using a chloride counter-ion is very convenient from a process development point of view and did not increase the toxicity of the antimicrobial drug.
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20
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Quercini L, Brunetti J, Riolo G, Bindi S, Scali S, Lampronti I, D'Aversa E, Wronski S, Pollini S, Gentile M, Lupetti P, Rossolini GM, Falciani C, Bracci L, Pini A. An antimicrobial molecule mitigates signs of sepsis in vivo and eradicates infections from lung tissue. FASEB J 2019; 34:192-207. [PMID: 31914681 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901896rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The peptide sequence KKIRVRLSA was synthesized in a dimeric structure (SET-M33DIM) and evaluated as a candidate drug for infections due to multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative pathogens. SET-M33DIM showed significant antibacterial activity against MDR strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Escherichia coli (Minimal Inhibitory Concentration [MICs], 1.5-11 µM), and less activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MICs, 11-22 µM). It showed very low toxicity in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo; in cytotoxicity tests, its EC50 was as much as 22 times better than that of SET-M33, a peptide with the same amino-acid sequence, but synthesized in tetra-branched form (638 vs 28 µM). In in vivo and ex vivo experiments, SET-M33DIM cleared P. aeruginosa infection, significantly reducing signs of sepsis in animals, and restoring cell viability in lung tissue after bacterial challenge. It also quelled inflammation triggered by LPS and live bacterial cells, inhibiting expression of inflammatory mediators in lung tissue, cultured macrophages, and bronchial cells from a cystic fibrosis patient.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giulia Riolo
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Bindi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisabetta D'Aversa
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabine Wronski
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine (ITEM), Member of Fraunhofer international Consortium for Anti-Infective Research (iCAIR), Hannover, Germany
| | - Simona Pollini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Microbiology and Virology Unit, Florence Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Pietro Lupetti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Microbiology and Virology Unit, Florence Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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21
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Lee JK, Mereuta L, Luchian T, Park Y. Antimicrobial peptide HPA3NT3-A2 effectively inhibits biofilm formation in mice infected with drug-resistant bacteria. Biomater Sci 2019; 7:5068-5083. [PMID: 31555777 DOI: 10.1039/c9bm01051c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial biofilms formed through secretion of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) have been implicated in many serious infections and can increase antibiotic resistance by a factor of more than 1000. Here, we examined the abilities of the antimicrobial peptide HPA3NT3-A2 to inhibit and reduce biofilm formation, eliminate EPS, and suppress inflammation in mice infected with clinical isolates of drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. HPA3NT3-A2 was developed from a desirable analogue peptide, HPA3NT3, derived from residues 2-20 of the Helicobacter pylori ribosomal protein L1. HPA3NT3-A2 showed stronger activity against planktonic cells (MIC: 8 μM) compared to ciprofloxacin or tobramycin (>512 μM), and a favorable minimum biofilm inhibition and elimination concentration. This peptide also neutralized LPS; decreased levels of EPS; inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the lung, kidney, and spleen; decreased white blood cell counts; and increased survival among infected mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong-Kook Lee
- Research Center for Proteinaceous Materials (RCPM), Chosun University, Gwangju 501-759, Korea
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22
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van der Weide H, Vermeulen-de Jongh DMC, van der Meijden A, Boers SA, Kreft D, Ten Kate MT, Falciani C, Pini A, Strandh M, Bakker-Woudenberg IAJM, Hays JP, Goessens WHF. Antimicrobial activity of two novel antimicrobial peptides AA139 and SET-M33 against clinically and genotypically diverse Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates with differing antibiotic resistance profiles. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2019; 54:159-166. [PMID: 31173867 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2019.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Colistin is an antimicrobial peptide (AMP) used as a drug of last resort, although plasmid-mediated colistin resistance (MCR) has been reported. AA139 and SET-M33 are novel AMPs currently in development for the treatment of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacterial infections. As many AMPs have a similar mode of action to colistin, potentially leading to cross-resistance, the antimicrobial activity of AA139 and SET-M33 was investigated against a collection of 50 clinically and genotypically diverse Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates with differing antibiotic resistance profiles, including colistin-resistant strains. The collection was genotypically characterised and susceptibility to clinically relevant antibiotics was determined. Susceptibility to AA139 and SET-M33 did not differ among the collection despite differences in underlying mechanisms of resistance or susceptibility to colistin. For three colistin-susceptible and three colistin-resistant strains with distinct MDR profiles as well as an additional MCR-producing strain, the bactericidal activity of AA139, SET-M33 and colistin during 24 h of exposure was examined. Following 24 h of exposure to AA139, SET-M33 or colistin, the seven strains were tested for changes in susceptibility to the respective AMPs. AA139 and SET-M33 showed a concentration-dependent bactericidal effect irrespective of bacterial susceptibility to colistin. Exposure to low colistin concentrations resulted in the development of colistin resistance in colistin-susceptible strains, whereas susceptibility to AA139 and SET-M33 following exposure to the respective AMPs was maintained. The two novel AMPs remained effective against colistin-resistant strains and may be promising novel drugs for the treatment of clinically and genotypically diverse MDR K. pneumoniae infections, including infections associated with colistin-resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hessel van der Weide
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Denise M C Vermeulen-de Jongh
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aart van der Meijden
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan A Boers
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Deborah Kreft
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marian T Ten Kate
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; Setlance srl, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; Setlance srl, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Irma A J M Bakker-Woudenberg
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - John P Hays
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wil H F Goessens
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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23
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Skirecki T, Cavaillon JM. Inner sensors of endotoxin – implications for sepsis research and therapy. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2019; 43:239-256. [DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuz004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Skirecki
- Laboratory of Flow Cytometry and Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Marymoncka 99/103 Street, 01–813 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jean-Marc Cavaillon
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Institut Pasteur, 28 rue Dr. Roux, 75015 Paris, France
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24
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Jiang SJ, Tsai PI, Peng SY, Chang CC, Chung Y, Tsao HH, Huang HT, Chen SY, Hsu HJ. A potential peptide derived from cytokine receptors can bind proinflammatory cytokines as a therapeutic strategy for anti-inflammation. Sci Rep 2019; 9:2317. [PMID: 30783144 PMCID: PMC6381106 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-36492-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammation is a pivotal event in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, restenosis, and coronary artery disease. The efficacy of current treatment or preventive strategies for such inflammation is still inadequate. Thus, new anti-inflammatory strategies are needed. In this study, based on molecular docking and structural analysis, a potential peptide KCF18 with amphiphilic properties (positively charged and hydrophobic residues) derived from the receptors of proinflammatory cytokines was designed to inhibit cytokine-induced inflammatory response. Simulations suggested that KCF18 could bind to cytokines simultaneously, and electrostatic interactions were dominant. Surface plasmon resonance detection showed that KCF18 bound to both tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6, which is consistent with MM/PBSA binding free energy calculations. The cell experiments showed that KCF18 significantly reduced the binding of proinflammatory cytokines to their cognate receptors, suppressed TNF-α mRNA expression and monocyte binding and transmigration, and alleviated the infiltration of white blood cells in a peritonitis mouse model. The designed peptide KCF18 could remarkably diminish the risk of vascular inflammation by decreasing plasma cytokines release and by directly acting on the vascular endothelium. This study demonstrated that a combination of structure-based in silico design calculations, together with experimental measurements can be used to develop potential anti-inflammatory agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinn-Jong Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, 97004, Taiwan
| | - Pei-I Tsai
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Chiao-Tung University, Hsinchu, 30010, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Yi Peng
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, 97004, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Chun Chang
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, 97004, Taiwan.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tzu Chi Medical Center, Hualien, 97004, Taiwan
| | - Yi Chung
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, 97004, Taiwan
| | - Hao-Hsiang Tsao
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, 97004, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Ting Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, 97004, Taiwan
| | - San-Yuan Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Chiao-Tung University, Hsinchu, 30010, Taiwan
| | - Hao-Jen Hsu
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, 97004, Taiwan. .,Department of Life Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, 97004, Taiwan.
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25
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Nourmohammadi E, Mahoonak AS. Health Implications of Bioactive Peptides: A Review. INT J VITAM NUTR RES 2018; 88:319-343. [DOI: 10.1024/0300-9831/a000418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Abstract. Today, due to immobility, improper food habits, and changes in lifestyle, communities are faced with an increase in health problems such as blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and thrombosis. Bioactive peptides are considered as being the main products of protein hydrolysis which exert high effects on the nervous, immune, and gastrointestinal systems. Unlike synthetic drugs, bioactive peptides have no side effects and this advantage has qualified them as an alternative to such drugs. Due to the above-mentioned properties, this paper focuses on the study of health-improving attributes of bioactive peptides such as anti-oxidative, anti-hypertensive, immunomodulatory, anti-microbial, anti-allergenic, opioid, anti-thrombotic, mineral-binding, anti-inflammatory, hypocholesterolemic, and anti-cancer effects. We also discuss the formation of bioactive peptides during fermentation, the main restrictions on the use of bioactive peptides and their applications in the field of functional foods. In general, food-derived biologically active peptides play an important role in human health and may be used in the development of novel foods with certain health claims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Nourmohammadi
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Gorgan University of Agricultural Science & Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Alireza Sadeghi Mahoonak
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Gorgan University of Agricultural Science & Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran
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26
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Brunetti J, Falciani C, Bracci L, Pini A. Branched peptides as bioactive molecules for drug design. Pept Sci (Hoboken) 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/pep2.24089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical BiotechnologiesUniversity of Siena Siena Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical BiotechnologiesUniversity of Siena Siena Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical BiotechnologiesUniversity of Siena Siena Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical BiotechnologiesUniversity of Siena Siena Italy
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27
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van der Weide H, Brunetti J, Pini A, Bracci L, Ambrosini C, Lupetti P, Paccagnini E, Gentile M, Bernini A, Niccolai N, Jongh DVD, Bakker-Woudenberg IAJM, Goessens WHF, Hays JP, Falciani C. Investigations into the killing activity of an antimicrobial peptide active against extensively antibiotic-resistant K. pneumon iae and P. aeruginosa. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2017; 1859:1796-1804. [PMID: 28583831 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
SET-M33 is a multimeric antimicrobial peptide active against Gram-negative bacteria in vitro and in vivo. Insights into its killing mechanism could elucidate correlations with selectivity. SET-M33 showed concentration-dependent bactericidal activity against colistin-susceptible and resistant isolates of P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae. Scanning and transmission microscopy studies showed that SET-M33 generated cell blisters, blebs, membrane stacks and deep craters in K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa cells. NMR analysis and CD spectra in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate micelles showed a transition from an unstructured state to a stable α-helix, driving the peptide to arrange itself on the surface of micelles. SET-M33 kills Gram-negative bacteria after an initial interaction with bacterial LPS. The molecule becomes then embedded in the outer membrane surface, thereby impairing cell function. This activity of SET-M33, in contrast to other similar antimicrobial peptides such as colistin, does not generate resistant mutants after 24h of exposure, non-specific interactions or toxicity against eukaryotic cell membranes, suggesting that SET-M33 is a promising new option for the treatment of Gram-negative antibiotic-resistant infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hessel van der Weide
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Andrea Bernini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Neri Niccolai
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Denise Vermeulen-de Jongh
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Irma A J M Bakker-Woudenberg
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wil H F Goessens
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - John P Hays
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Italy; Setlance srl, Research and Development Department, Siena, Italy.
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28
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Pollini S, Brunetti J, Sennati S, Rossolini GM, Bracci L, Pini A, Falciani C. Synergistic activity profile of an antimicrobial peptide against multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant strains of Gram-negative bacterial pathogens. J Pept Sci 2017; 23:329-333. [PMID: 28176481 DOI: 10.1002/psc.2978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Infection sustained by multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant bacterial pathogens is often untreatable with the standard of care antibiotics, and the combination of anti-infective compounds often represents the only therapeutic strategy to face this major clinical treat. SET-M33 is a novel antimicrobial peptide (AMP) that has demonstrated in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative bacteria and has shown interesting features in preclinical evaluations. Particularly, it showed efficacy against a number of multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant clinical strains of Gram-negative pathogens, in in vitro and in vivo assessments. Here, we explored the potential synergistic activity of SET-M33 in combination with different standard of care antibiotics by the checkerboard method against a panel of six strains of Gram-negative pathogens including multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii. SET-M33 showed synergistic activity with antibiotics of different families against these clinically relevant strains. A synergistic effect was observed for SET-M33 in combination with rifampin, meropenem, aztreonam, and tobramycin mostly on K. pneumoniae and A. baumannii strains, while the SET-M33 plus ciprofloxacin combination was additive with all tested strains. Synergy was not apparently linked to the bacterial species or phenotype but was rather strain-specific, highlighting the need for individual strain testing for synergistic antimicrobial combinations. These findings extend current knowledge on synergistic activity of AMPs in combination with conventional agents and support the potential role of SET-M33 as a novel therapeutic agent against antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative pathogens. Copyright © 2017 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Pollini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Samanta Sennati
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Clinical Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.,Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation, Florence, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Setlance srl, Siena, Italy
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29
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Anti-inflammatory Properties of Antimicrobial Peptides and Peptidomimetics: LPS and LTA Neutralization. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1548:369-386. [PMID: 28013519 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6737-7_27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid (LTA) neutralization constitute potential non-antibiotic treatment strategies for sepsis - a systemic infection-induced inflammatory response. Studies on LPS- and LTA-neutralizing compounds are abundant in literature, and a number of peptides and peptidomimetics appear to display promising activity. However, in this ongoing search for potential antisepsis drug leads, it will be preferable that the assays used by different research groups lead to readily comparable data for the most efficient compounds. Here, we propose and describe standardized methods to be used for testing of novel compounds for their LPS- and LTA-neutralizing capacity with a focus on functional suppression of pro-inflammatory responses in cell-based systems. To best mimic the human in vivo conditions, we suggest the use of freshly isolated human leukocytes combined with an appropriate method for the chosen cytokine (e.g., IL-6 or TNF-α). The described protocols comprise isolation, stimulation, and viability test of the human leukocytes.
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30
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Nanotheranostic approaches for management of bloodstream bacterial infections. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2017; 13:329-341. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2016.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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31
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Simanovich E, Brod V, Rahat MM, Drazdov E, Walter M, Shakya J, Rahat MA. Inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis by EMMPRIN multiple antigenic peptide (MAP) vaccination is mediated by immune modulation. Oncoimmunology 2016; 6:e1261778. [PMID: 28197388 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2016.1261778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 11/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Previously, we have identified a new epitope in EMMPRIN, a multifunctional protein that mediates tumor cell-macrophage interactions and induces both MMP-9 and VEGF. Here, we synthesized this epitope as an octa-branched multiple antigenic peptide (MAP) to vaccinate mice implanted with subcutaneous syngeneic colon (CT26), prostate (TRAMP-C2) or renal (RENCA) cell line carcinomas. Vaccination inhibited, and sometimes regressed, tumor growth in a dose-dependent manner, reaching 94%, 71% and 72% inhibition, respectively, at a 50 μg dose (p < 0.01). Mice with regressed tumors demonstrated immune memory, preventing tumor recurrence upon re-implantation (p < 0.001). When tumor cells were administered through the tail vein to generate lung metastases, vaccination reduced the number of metastatic foci (by 15- and 23-folds, p < 0.001), and increased the median survival time by 25% and 53% in RENCA and CT26 metastases, respectively (p < 0.01) relative to scrambled-MAP controls. No significant adverse responses were observed in all experiments. We show that the tumor microenvironment was immune modulated, as vaccination induced production of EMMPRIN-specific antibodies, increased CD8+ T cells infiltration and cytotoxicity, alleviated immune suppression by decreasing TGFβ concentrations, reduced angiogenesis and cell proliferation, and enhanced apoptosis. Thus, our successful active peptide vaccination strategy differs from previous, unsuccessful attempts, both in the selected target (the EMMPRIN epitope) and in the use of a modified, MAP configuration, and demonstrates that this may be an efficient approach for the treatment and prevention of some types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina Simanovich
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel; The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Vera Brod
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center , Haifa, Israel
| | - Maya M Rahat
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center , Haifa, Israel
| | - Ella Drazdov
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center , Haifa, Israel
| | - Miriam Walter
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center , Haifa, Israel
| | - Jivan Shakya
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center , Haifa, Israel
| | - Michal A Rahat
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel; The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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32
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Silva ON, de la Fuente-Núñez C, Haney EF, Fensterseifer ICM, Ribeiro SM, Porto WF, Brown P, Faria-Junior C, Rezende TMB, Moreno SE, Lu TK, Hancock REW, Franco OL. An anti-infective synthetic peptide with dual antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35465. [PMID: 27804992 PMCID: PMC5090204 DOI: 10.1038/srep35465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic-resistant infections are predicted to kill 10 million people per year by 2050, costing the global economy $100 trillion. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop alternative technologies. We have engineered a synthetic peptide called clavanin-MO, derived from a marine tunicate antimicrobial peptide, which exhibits potent antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties both in vitro and in vivo. The peptide effectively killed a panel of representative bacterial strains, including multidrug-resistant hospital isolates. Antimicrobial activity of the peptide was demonstrated in animal models, reducing bacterial counts by six orders of magnitude, and contributing to infection clearance. In addition, clavanin-MO was capable of modulating innate immunity by stimulating leukocyte recruitment to the site of infection, and production of immune mediators GM-CSF, IFN-γ and MCP-1, while suppressing an excessive and potentially harmful inflammatory response by increasing synthesis of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10 and repressing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-12 and TNF-α. Finally, treatment with the peptide protected mice against otherwise lethal infections caused by both Gram-negative and -positive drug-resistant strains. The peptide presented here directly kills bacteria and further helps resolve infections through its immune modulatory properties. Peptide anti-infective therapeutics with combined antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties represent a new approach to treat antibiotic-resistant infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- O N Silva
- Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Programa de pós-graduação em Genética e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora-MG, Brazil.,S-Inova Biotech, Pós-graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - C de la Fuente-Núñez
- Synthetic Biology Group, MIT Synthetic Biology Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America.,Research Laboratory of Electronics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America.,Department of Biological Engineering, and Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America.,Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America.,Harvard Biophysics Program, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America.,The Center for Microbiome Informatics and Therapeutics, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - E F Haney
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - I C M Fensterseifer
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-graduação em Patologia Molecular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - S M Ribeiro
- S-Inova Biotech, Pós-graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - W F Porto
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Patologia Molecular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - P Brown
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - C Faria-Junior
- Curso de Odontologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brazil
| | - T M B Rezende
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brazil.,Curso de Odontologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brazil.,Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Brazil
| | - S E Moreno
- S-Inova Biotech, Pós-graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - T K Lu
- Synthetic Biology Group, MIT Synthetic Biology Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America.,Research Laboratory of Electronics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America.,Department of Biological Engineering, and Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America.,Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America.,Harvard Biophysics Program, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America.,The Center for Microbiome Informatics and Therapeutics, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - R E W Hancock
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - O L Franco
- Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Programa de pós-graduação em Genética e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora-MG, Brazil.,S-Inova Biotech, Pós-graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil.,Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-graduação em Patologia Molecular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
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33
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Brunetti J, Roscia G, Lampronti I, Gambari R, Quercini L, Falciani C, Bracci L, Pini A. Immunomodulatory and Anti-inflammatory Activity in Vitro and in Vivo of a Novel Antimicrobial Candidate. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:25742-25748. [PMID: 27758868 PMCID: PMC5207269 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.750257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The synthetic antimicrobial peptide SET-M33 has strong activity against bacterial infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. It is currently in preclinical development as a new drug to treat lung infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. Here we report its strong anti-inflammatory activity in terms of reduced expression of a number of cytokines, enzymes, and signal transduction factors involved in inflammation triggered by LPS from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli. Sixteen cytokines and other major agents involved in inflammation were analyzed in macrophages and bronchial cells after stimulation with LPS and incubation with SET-M33. The bronchial cells were obtained from a cystic fibrosis patient. A number of these proteins showed up to 100% reduction in expression as measured by RT-PCR, Western blotting, or Luminex technology. LPS neutralization was also demonstrated in vivo by challenging bronchoalveolar lavage of SET-M33-treated mice with LPS, which led to a sharp reduction in TNF-α with respect to non-SET-M33-treated animals. We also describe a strong activity of SET-M33 in stimulating cell migration of keratinocytes in wound healing experiments in vitro, demonstrating a powerful immunomodulatory action generally characteristic of molecules taking part in innate immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Brunetti
- From the Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giulia Roscia
- From the Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- the Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy, and
| | - Roberto Gambari
- the Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy, and
| | - Leila Quercini
- From the Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | | | - Luisa Bracci
- From the Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- From the Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy,
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34
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Brunetti J, Falciani C, Roscia G, Pollini S, Bindi S, Scali S, Arrieta UC, Gómez-Vallejo V, Quercini L, Ibba E, Prato M, Rossolini GM, Llop J, Bracci L, Pini A. In vitro and in vivo efficacy, toxicity, bio-distribution and resistance selection of a novel antibacterial drug candidate. Sci Rep 2016; 6:26077. [PMID: 27169671 PMCID: PMC4864329 DOI: 10.1038/srep26077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A synthetic antimicrobial peptide was identified as a possible candidate for the development of a new antibacterial drug. The peptide, SET-M33L, showed a MIC90 below 1.5 μM and 3 μM for Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae, respectively. In in vivo models of P. aeruginosa infections, the peptide and its pegylated form (SET-M33L-PEG) enabled a survival percentage of 60–80% in sepsis and lung infections when injected twice i.v. at 5 mg/Kg, and completely healed skin infections when administered topically. Plasma clearance showed different kinetics for SET-M33L and SET-M33L-PEG, the latter having greater persistence two hours after injection. Bio-distribution in organs did not show significant differences in uptake of the two peptides. Unlike colistin, SET-M33L did not select resistant mutants in bacterial cultures and also proved non genotoxic and to have much lower in vivo toxicity than antimicrobial peptides already used in clinical practice. The characterizations reported here are part of a preclinical development plan that should bring the molecule to clinical trial in the next few years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Roscia
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Simona Pollini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Bindi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, viale Bracci, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Unai Cossio Arrieta
- Radiochemistry and Nuclear Imaging Group CIC biomaGUNE, San Sebastián, Spain
| | | | - Leila Quercini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Elisa Ibba
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Prato
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Italy.,Microbiology and Virology Unit, Florence Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.,Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation I.R.C.C.S., Florence, Italy
| | - Jordi Llop
- Radiochemistry and Nuclear Imaging Group CIC biomaGUNE, San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, viale Bracci, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, viale Bracci, Siena, Italy
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35
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Cameron A, De Zoysa GH, Sarojini V. Antimicrobial peptides against Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae and Erwinia amylovora: Chemical synthesis, secondary structure, efficacy, and mechanistic investigations. Biopolymers 2016; 102:88-96. [PMID: 24122768 DOI: 10.1002/bip.22423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Revised: 09/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
We report on structurally modified dodecapeptide amides (KYKLFKKILKFL-NH2) and two analogs of a hexapeptide amide (WRWYCR-NH2) with antibacterial activity against the Gram negative pathogens Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa) and Erwinia amylovora (Ea). Dodecapeptide minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranged from 3.2 to 15.4 µM, with the unmodified peptide being the most potent against both pathogens. The unmodified dodecapeptide also had 32-58% α-helicity in membrane mimetic environments (50% v/v trifluoroethanol and 30 mM SDS micelles). Structural modifications which included branching, acylation, and conjugation with 5-nitro-2-furaldehyde (NFA) proved detrimental to both antimicrobial activity and α-helicity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed distinct morphological changes to bacterial cells treated with the different peptides, leading to blistering of the membrane and cell lysis. MICs of the hexapeptide amide were 3.9-7.7 µM against both pathogens. The hexapeptide acid did not show anti-bacterial activity against either pathogen. However, the NFA conjugated hexapeptide acid was more active than the parent peptide or NFA alone with MICs of 1.6-3.2 µM against the pathogens. SEM analysis revealed shriveling and collapse of bacterial cells treated with the hexapeptide, whereas shortening and compactness on exposure to streptomycin. A colorimetric assay demonstrated that the dodecapeptides were likely to act by targeting the bacterial membrane, whereas the hexapeptides, streptomycin, and NFA were not, thereby supporting the morphological changes observed during SEM. To the best of our knowledge, this appears to be the first report of antimicrobial peptide activity against Psa, a pathogen that is currently devastating the kiwifruit industry internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Cameron
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag, 92019, Auckland, New Zealand
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Ceccherini F, Falciani C, Onori M, Scali S, Pollini S, Rossolini GM, Bracci L, Pini A. Antimicrobial activity of levofloxacin – M33 peptide conjugation or combination. MEDCHEMCOMM 2016. [DOI: 10.1039/c5md00392j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
M33 is a branched antimicrobial peptide against Gram-negative bacteria. We reported its conjugation with levofloxacin and its antibacterial activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies
- University of Siena
- Italy
| | - Simona Pollini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies
- University of Siena
- Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies
- University of Siena
- Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine
- University of Florence
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies
- University of Siena
- Italy
- Clinical Pathology Unit
- Siena University Hospital
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies
- University of Siena
- Italy
- Clinical Pathology Unit
- Siena University Hospital
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D-Amino acids incorporation in the frog skin-derived peptide esculentin-1a(1-21)NH2 is beneficial for its multiple functions. Amino Acids 2015; 47:2505-19. [PMID: 26162435 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-015-2041-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Naturally occurring antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent promising future antibiotics. We have previously isolated esculentin-1a(1-21)NH2, a short peptide derived from the frog skin AMP esculentin-1a, with a potent anti-Pseudomonal activity. Here, we investigated additional functions of the peptide and properties responsible for these activities. For that purpose, we synthesized the peptide, as well as its structurally altered analog containing two D-amino acids. The peptides were then biophysically and biologically investigated for their cytotoxicity and immunomodulating activities. The data revealed that compared to the wild-type, the diastereomer: (1) is significantly less toxic towards mammalian cells, in agreement with its lower α-helical structure, as determined by circular dichroism spectroscopy; (2) is more effective against the biofilm form of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (responsible for lung infections in cystic fibrosis sufferers), while maintaining a high activity against the free-living form of this important pathogen; (3) is more stable in serum; (4) has a higher activity in promoting migration of lung epithelial cells, and presumably in healing damaged lung tissue, and (5) disaggregates and detoxifies the bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), albeit less than the wild-type. Light scattering studies revealed a correlation between anti-LPS activity and the ability to disaggregate the LPS. Besides shedding light on the multifunction properties of esculentin-1a(1-21)NH2, the D-amino acid containing isomer may serve as an attractive template for the development of new anti-Pseudomonal compounds with additional beneficial properties. Furthermore, together with other studies, incorporation of D-amino acids may serve as a general approach to optimize the future design of new AMPs.
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38
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Piscidin is highly active against carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and NDM-1-producing Klebsiella pneumonia in a systemic Septicaemia infection mouse model. Mar Drugs 2015; 13:2287-305. [PMID: 25874924 PMCID: PMC4413212 DOI: 10.3390/md13042287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2015] [Revised: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to investigate the antimicrobial activity of two synthetic antimicrobial peptides from an aquatic organism, tilapia piscidin 3 (TP3) and tilapia piscidin 4 (TP4), in vitro and in a murine sepsis model, as compared with ampicillin, tigecycline, and imipenem. Mice were infected with (NDM-1)-producing K. pneumonia and multi-drug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, and subsequently treated with TP3, TP4, or antibiotics for different periods of time (up to 168 h). Mouse survival and bacterial colony forming units (CFU) in various organs were measured after each treatment. Toxicity was determined based on observation of behavior and measurement of biochemical parameters. TP3 and TP4 exhibited strong activity against K. pneumonia and A. baumannii in vitro. Administration of TP3 (150 μg/mouse) or TP4 (50 μg/mouse) 30 min after infection with K. pneumonia or A. baumannii significantly increased survival in mice. TP4 was more effective than tigecycline at reducing CFU counts in several organs. TP3 and TP4 were shown to be non-toxic, and did not affect mouse behavior. TP3 and TP4 are able at potentiate anti-Acinetobacter baumannii or anti-Klebsiella pneumonia drug activity, reduce bacterial load, and prevent drug resistance, indicating their potential for use in combating multidrug-resistant bacteria.
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Fan Y, Zhang J, Cai L, Wang S, Liu C, Zhang Y, You L, Fu Y, Shi Z, Yin Z, Luo L, Chang Y, Duan X. The effect of anti-inflammatory properties of ferritin light chain on lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory response in murine macrophages. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2014; 1843:2775-83. [PMID: 24983770 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2014.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2014] [Revised: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 06/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Ferritin light chain (FTL) reduces the free iron concentration by forming ferritin complexes with ferritin heavy chain (FTH). Thus, FTL competes with the Fenton reaction by acting as an antioxidant. In the present study, we determined that FTL influences the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response. FTL protein expression was regulated by LPS stimulation in RAW264.7 cells. To investigate the role of FTL in LPS-activated murine macrophages, we established stable FTL-expressing cells and used shRNA to silence FTL expression in RAW264.7 cells. Overexpression of FTL significantly decreased the LPS-induced production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Additionally, overexpression of FTL decreased the LPS-induced increase of the intracellular labile iron pool (LIP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, FTL overexpression suppressed the LPS-induced activation of MAPKs and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). In contrast, knockdown of FTL by shRNA showed the reverse effects. Therefore, our results indicate that FTL plays an anti-inflammatory role in response to LPS in murine macrophages and may have therapeutic potential for treating inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumei Fan
- Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China
| | - Linlin Cai
- Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China
| | - Shengnan Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China
| | - Caizhi Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China
| | - Yongze Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China
| | - Linhao You
- Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China
| | - Yujian Fu
- Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China
| | - Zhenhua Shi
- Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China
| | - Zhimin Yin
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210046, PR China
| | - Lan Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, PR China
| | - Yanzhong Chang
- Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China.
| | - Xianglin Duan
- Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China; Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, PR China.
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A novel phage-library-selected peptide inhibits human TNF-α binding to its receptors. Molecules 2014; 19:7255-68. [PMID: 24896264 PMCID: PMC6271742 DOI: 10.3390/molecules19067255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2014] [Revised: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the identification of a new human tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) specific peptide selected by competitive panning of a phage library. Competitive elution of phages was obtained using the monoclonal antibody adalimumab, which neutralizes pro-inflammatory processes caused by over-production of TNF-α in vivo, and is used to treat severe symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. The selected peptide was synthesized in monomeric and branched form and analyzed for binding to TNF-α and competition with adalimumab and TNF-α receptors. Results of competition with TNF-α receptors in surface plasmon resonance and melanoma cells expressing both TNF receptors make the peptide a candidate compound for the development of a novel anti-TNF-α drug.
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Falciani C, Lozzi L, Scali S, Brunetti J, Bracci L, Pini A. Site-specific pegylation of an antimicrobial peptide increases resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa elastase. Amino Acids 2014; 46:1403-7. [PMID: 24510250 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-014-1686-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
M33 is a branched peptide currently under preclinical characterization for the development of a new antibacterial drug against gram-negative bacteria. Here, we report its pegylation at the C-terminus of the three-lysine-branching core and the resulting increase in stability to Pseudomonas aeruginosa elastase. This protease is a virulence factor that acts by destroying peptides of the native immune system. Peptide resistance to this protease is an important feature for M33-Peg activity against Pseudomonas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Falciani
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Siena, Siena, Italy
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42
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Luca V, Stringaro A, Colone M, Pini A, Mangoni ML. Esculentin(1-21), an amphibian skin membrane-active peptide with potent activity on both planktonic and biofilm cells of the bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Cell Mol Life Sci 2013; 70:2773-86. [PMID: 23503622 PMCID: PMC11113931 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-013-1291-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2012] [Revised: 01/26/2013] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic bacterial pathogen that forms sessile communities, named biofilms. The non-motile forms are very difficult to eradicate and are often associated with the establishment of persistent infections, especially in patients with cystic fibrosis. The resistance of P. aeruginosa to conventional antibiotics has become a growing health concern worldwide and has prompted the search for new anti-infective agents with new modes of action. Naturally occurring antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent promising future template candidates. Here we report on the potent activity and membrane-perturbing effects of the amphibian AMP esculentin(1-21), on both the free-living and sessile forms of P. aeruginosa, as a possible mechanism for biofilm disruption. Furthermore, the findings that esculentin(1-21) is able to prolong survival of animals in models of sepsis and pulmonary infection indicate that this peptide can be a promising template for the generation of new antibiotic formulations to advance care of infections caused by P. aeruginosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Luca
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Annarita Stringaro
- Dipartimento di Tecnologie e Salute, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Marisa Colone
- Dipartimento di Tecnologie e Salute, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Mangoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, La Sapienza University, Via degli Apuli 9, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Chen HL, Su PY, Chang YS, Wu SY, Liao YD, Yu HM, Lauderdale TL, Chang K, Shih C. Identification of a novel antimicrobial peptide from human hepatitis B virus core protein arginine-rich domain (ARD). PLoS Pathog 2013; 9:e1003425. [PMID: 23785287 PMCID: PMC3681751 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1003425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens causes an increasing challenge to public health. Antimicrobial peptides are considered a possible solution to this problem. HBV core protein (HBc) contains an arginine-rich domain (ARD) at its C-terminus, which consists of 16 arginine residues separated into four clusters (ARD I to IV). In this study, we demonstrated that the peptide containing the full-length ARD I–IV (HBc147-183) has a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity at micro-molar concentrations, including some MDR and colistin (polymyxin E)-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. Furthermore, confocal fluorescence microscopy and SYTOX Green uptake assay indicated that this peptide killed Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria by membrane permeabilization or DNA binding. In addition, peptide ARD II–IV (HBc153-176) and ARD I–III (HBc147-167) were found to be necessary and sufficient for the activity against P. aeruginosa and K. peumoniae. The antimicrobial activity of HBc ARD peptides can be attenuated by the addition of LPS. HBc ARD peptide was shown to be capable of direct binding to the Lipid A of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in several in vitro binding assays. Peptide ARD I–IV (HBc147-183) had no detectable cytotoxicity in various tissue culture systems and a mouse animal model. In the mouse model by intraperitoneal (i.p.) inoculation with Staphylococcus aureus, timely treatment by i.p. injection with ARD peptide resulted in 100-fold reduction of bacteria load in blood, liver and spleen, as well as 100% protection of inoculated animals from death. If peptide was injected when bacterial load in the blood reached its peak, the protection rate dropped to 40%. Similar results were observed in K. peumoniae using an IVIS imaging system. The finding of anti-microbial HBc ARD is discussed in the context of commensal gut microbiota, development of intrahepatic anti-viral immunity and establishment of chronic infection with HBV. Our current results suggested that HBc ARD could be a new promising antimicrobial peptide. Antibiotics-resistant pathogens have been a major problem to our public health. Recently, in our studies of human hepatitis B virus (HBV), we accidentally discovered potent and broad spectrum antimicrobial peptides from HBV core protein (HBc) arginine-rich domain (ARD). The peptides are mainly composed of SPRRR repeats and are effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as fungi. We found different bactericidal mechanisms of the ARD peptides, which involved LPS binding, DNA binding and membrane permeabilization in various tested bacteria, such as P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae, E. coli and S. aureus. We also found that this ARD peptide was effective for colistin-resistant A. baumannii. The peptides exhibited no hemolysis activity to human red blood cells and no cytotoxicity to human hepatoma cells and kidney cells. Furthermore, the ARD peptide was shown to be safe and protective in the animal model. Recently, intestinal flora was found to influence the development of immunity. We discussed here the potential involvement of the antimicrobial activity of HBc ARD in the establishment of HBV chronic infection in the newborns. We proposed here that the HBc ARD peptides could serve as an alternative to the conventional antibiotics in clinical medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng-Li Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Yi Su
- Taiwan International Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine, National Yang-Ming University and Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Shu Chang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Szu-Yao Wu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - You-Di Liao
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ming Yu
- Genomics Research center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsai-Ling Lauderdale
- Microbial Infections Reference Laboratory (MIRL), National Health Research Institute (NHRI), Zhunan Town, Taiwan
| | - Kaichih Chang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Tzu Chi University, Hualien City, Taiwan
| | - Chiaho Shih
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taiwan International Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine, National Yang-Ming University and Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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44
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Falciani C, Brunetti J, Lelli B, Ravenni N, Lozzi L, Depau L, Scali S, Bernini A, Pini A, Bracci L. Cancer Selectivity of Tetrabranched Neurotensin Peptides Is Generated by Simultaneous Binding to Sulfated Glycosaminoglycans and Protein Receptors. J Med Chem 2013; 56:5009-18. [DOI: 10.1021/jm400329p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
- Istituto Toscano Tumori (ITT), Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Barbara Lelli
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Niccolò Ravenni
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Luisa Lozzi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Lorenzo Depau
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Andrea Bernini
- Department of Biotechnology,
Chemistry, and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
- Istituto Toscano Tumori (ITT), Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena,
Italy
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45
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Teixeira LD, Silva ON, Migliolo L, Fensterseifer ICM, Franco OL. In vivo antimicrobial evaluation of an alanine-rich peptide derived from Pleuronectes americanus. Peptides 2013; 42:144-8. [PMID: 23416023 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2013.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2013] [Revised: 02/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In several organisms, the first barrier against microbial infections consists of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) which are molecules that act as components of the innate immune system. Recent studies have demonstrated that AMPs can perform various functions in different tissues or physiological conditions. In this view, this study was carried out in order to evaluate the multifunctional activity in vivo of an alanine-rich peptide, known as Pa-MAP, derived from the polar fish Pleuronectes americanus. Pa-MAP was evaluated in intraperitoneally infected mice with a sub-lethal concentration of Escherichia coli at standard concentrations of 1 and 5 mg kg(-1). At both concentrations, Pa-MAPs exhibited an ability to prevent E. coli infection and increase mice survival, similar to the result observed in mice treated with ampicillin at 2 mg kg(-1). In addition, mice were monitored for weight loss. The results showed that mice treated with Pa-MAPs at 1 mg kg(-1) gained 0.8% of body weight during the 72 h of experiment. The same was observed with Pa-MAP at 5 mg kg(-1), which had a gain of 0.5% in body weight during the treatment. Mice treated with ampicillin at 2 mg kg(-1) show a significant weight loss of 5.6% of body weight. The untreated group exhibited a 5.5% loss of body weight. The immunomodulatory effects were also evaluated by the quantification of IL-10, IL-12, TNF-α, IFN-γ and nitric oxide cytokines in serum, but no immunomodulatory activity was observed. Data presented here suggest that Pa-MAP should be used as a novel antibiotic against infection control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro D Teixeira
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
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46
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Pan Q, Tian Y, Li X, Ye J, Liu Y, Song L, Yang Y, Zhu R, He Y, Chen L, Chen W, Mao X, Peng Z, Wang R. Enhanced membrane-tethered mucin 3 (MUC3) expression by a tetrameric branched peptide with a conserved TFLK motif inhibits bacteria adherence. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:5407-16. [PMID: 23316049 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.408245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated whether a synthetic tetrameric branched peptide based on the conserved TFLK motif from mammary-associated serum amyloid A3 (M-SAA3) is more efficient than the monomeric peptide at up-regulating MUC3 expression and examined the possible mechanism(s) and biological significance of this process. We used standard solid-phase methods to synthesize a tetrameric branched peptide (sequence GWLTFLKAAG) containing a trilysine core, termed the TFLK-containing 10-mer BP. The aberrant expression of transcription factors was analyzed using a transcription factor protein/DNA array. MUC3 and relevant transcription factors were detected using real-time PCR and/or Western blots. The luciferase assay, EMSA, and ChIP assays were used to analyze the activity of the human MUC3 promoter. The bacterial adherence assay was used to evaluate the in vitro inhibition of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli or enterohemorrhage E. coli serotype O157:H7 (EHEC O157:H7) adherence to HT-29-Gal cells after treatment with the TFLK-containing 10-mer BP. In HT-29-Gal cells, the TFLK-containing 10-mer BP induced higher levels of MUC3 expression than the M-SAA3-derived N-terminal 10-mer monomeric peptide, and MUC3 expression was activated through transcriptional mechanisms, including the induction of multiple transcription factors and further binding with their cis-elements between nucleotides -242 and -62 within MUC3 promoter. Interestingly, the TFLK-containing 10-mer BP dramatically inhibited enteropathogenic E. coli and EHEC O157:H7 adherence to the HT-29-Gal cells compared with the controls. This finding suggests a potential therapeutic use for this peptide to prevent gastrointestinal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Southwest Hospital, Chongqing, 400038 China
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Schuerholz T, Doemming S, Hornef M, Martin L, Simon TP, Heinbockel L, Brandenburg K, Marx G. The anti-inflammatory effect of the synthetic antimicrobial peptide 19-2.5 in a murine sepsis model: a prospective randomized study. Crit Care 2013; 17:R3. [PMID: 23302299 PMCID: PMC4057408 DOI: 10.1186/cc11920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2012] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Increasing rates of multi-resistant bacteria are a major problem in the treatment of critically ill patients. Furthermore, conventional antibiotics lead to the release of bacterial derived membrane parts initiating pro-inflammatory cascades with potential harm to the patient. Antimicrobial peptides (AMP) may kill bacteria without releasing pro-inflammatory factors. Thus, we compared three newly developed synthetic anti-lipopolysaccharide peptides (SALPs) with a broader range of efficacy to suppress cytokine release in plasma and CD14 mRNA expression in organ tissue in a murine, polymicrobial sepsis model. Methods A randomized, experimental trial was conducted in an animal research facility. Male NMRI mice (n = 90; 8- to 12-weeks old) were randomized to the following six groups: (i) sham operation and parenteral vehicle (NaCl 0.9%) administration (sham); (ii) cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and vehicle infusion (sepsis-control), (iii) CLP and polymyxin B infusion (polyB), or (iv to vi) CLP and infusion of three different synthetic antimicrobial peptides Peptide 19-2.5 (Pep2.5), Peptide 19-4 (Pep4) or Peptide 19-8 (Pep8). All animals underwent arterial and venous catheterization for hemodynamic monitoring 48 hours prior to CLP or sham-operation. Physical appearance and behavior (activity), plasma cytokine levels, and CD14 mRNA expression in heart, lung, liver, spleen and kidney tissue were determined 24 hours after CLP or sham operation. Results Only Pep2.5 significantly enhanced the activity after CLP, whereas none of the therapeutic regimens elevated the mean arterial pressure or heart rate. The strongly elevated IL-6, IL-10 and monocyte chemoattractant protein serum levels in septic animals were significantly reduced after Pep2.5 administration (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively). Similarly, Pep2.5 significantly reduced the sepsis-induced CD14 mRNA expression in heart (P = 0.003), lung (P = 0.008), and spleen tissue (P = 0.009) but not in kidney and liver. Conclusions Structurally variable SALPs exhibit major differences in their anti-inflammatory effect in vivo. Continuous parenteral administration of Pep2.5 is able to reduce sepsis-induced cytokine release and tissue inflammation.
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Schuerholz T, Brandenburg K, Marx G. Antimicrobial peptides and their potential application in inflammation and sepsis. CRITICAL CARE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CRITICAL CARE FORUM 2012; 16:207. [PMID: 22429567 PMCID: PMC3681352 DOI: 10.1186/cc11220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Schuerholz
- Department of Intensive Care, University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
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Falciani C, Lozzi L, Pollini S, Luca V, Carnicelli V, Brunetti J, Lelli B, Bindi S, Scali S, Di Giulio A, Rossolini GM, Mangoni ML, Bracci L, Pini A. Isomerization of an antimicrobial peptide broadens antimicrobial spectrum to gram-positive bacterial pathogens. PLoS One 2012; 7:e46259. [PMID: 23056272 PMCID: PMC3462775 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0046259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 08/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The branched M33 antimicrobial peptide was previously shown to be very active against Gram-negative bacterial pathogens, including multidrug-resistant strains. In an attempt to produce back-up molecules, we synthesized an M33 peptide isomer consisting of D-aminoacids (M33-D). This isomeric version showed 4 to 16-fold higher activity against Gram-positive pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, than the original peptide, while retaining strong activity against Gram-negative bacteria. The antimicrobial activity of both peptides was influenced by their differential sensitivity to bacterial proteases. The better activity shown by M33-D against S. aureus compared to M33-L was confirmed in biofilm eradication experiments where M33-L showed 12% activity with respect to M33-D, and in vivo models where Balb-c mice infected with S. aureus showed 100% and 0% survival when treated with M33-D and M33-L, respectively. M33-D appears to be an interesting candidate for the development of novel broad-spectrum antimicrobials active against bacterial pathogens of clinical importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Falciani
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Lozzi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Simona Pollini
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Luca
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche A. Fanelli, Università di Roma, La Sapienza, Roma, Italy
| | - Veronica Carnicelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biomediche, Università di L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Barbara Lelli
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Bindi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
- Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Giulio
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biomediche, Università di L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
- Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Mangoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche A. Fanelli, Università di Roma, La Sapienza, Roma, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
- Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
- Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, Siena, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Bai Y, Liu S, Li J, Lakshminarayanan R, Sarawathi P, Tang C, Ho D, Verma C, Beuerman RW, Pervushin K. Progressive structuring of a branched antimicrobial peptide on the path to the inner membrane target. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:26606-17. [PMID: 22700968 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.363259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, interest has grown in the antimicrobial properties of certain natural and non-natural peptides. The strategy of inserting a covalent branch point in a peptide can improve its antimicrobial properties while retaining host biocompatibility. However, little is known regarding possible structural transitions as the peptide moves on the access path to the presumed target, the inner membrane. Establishing the nature of the interactions with the complex bacterial outer and inner membranes is important for effective peptide design. Structure-activity relationships of an amphiphilic, branched antimicrobial peptide (B2088) are examined using environment-sensitive fluorescent probes, electron microscopy, molecular dynamics simulations, and high resolution NMR in solution and in condensed states. The peptide is reconstituted in bacterial outer membrane lipopolysaccharide extract as well as in a variety of lipid media mimicking the inner membrane of Gram-negative pathogens. Progressive structure accretion is observed for the peptide in water, LPS, and lipid environments. Despite inducing rapid aggregation of bacteria-derived lipopolysaccharides, the peptide remains highly mobile in the aggregated lattice. At the inner membranes, the peptide undergoes further structural compaction mediated by interactions with negatively charged lipids, probably causing redistribution of membrane lipids, which in turn results in increased membrane permeability and bacterial lysis. These findings suggest that peptides possessing both enhanced mobility in the bacterial outer membrane and spatial structure facilitating its interactions with the membrane-water interface may provide excellent structural motifs to develop new antimicrobials that can overcome antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Bai
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore 168751
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