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Luo S, Zhou X, Wu M, Wang G, Wang L, Feng X, Wu H, Luo R, Lu M, Ju J, Wang W, Yuan L, Luo X, Peng D, Yang L, Zhang Q, Chen M, Liang S, Dong X, Hao G, Zhang Y, Liu Z. Optimizing Nav1.7-Targeted Analgesics: Revealing Off-Target Effects of Spider Venom-Derived Peptide Toxins and Engineering Strategies for Improvement. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2406656. [PMID: 39248322 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202406656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
The inhibition of Nav1.7 is a promising strategy for the development of analgesic treatments. Spider venom-derived peptide toxins are recognized as significant sources of Nav1.7 inhibitors. However, their development has been impeded by limited selectivity. In this study, eight peptide toxins from three distinct spider venom Nav channel families demonstrated robust inhibition of hNav1.7, rKv4.2, and rKv4.3 (rKv4.2/4.3) currents, exhibiting a similar mode of action. The analysis of structure and function relationship revealed a significant overlap in the pharmacophore responsible for inhibiting hNav1.7 and rKv4.2 by HNTX-III, although Lys25 seems to play a more pivotal role in the inhibition of rKv4.2/4.3. Pharmacophore-guided rational design is employed for the development of an mGpTx1 analogue, mGpTx1-SA, which retains its inhibition of hNav1.7 while significantly reducing its inhibition of rKv4.2/4.3 and eliminating cardiotoxicity. Moreover, mGpTx1-SA demonstrates potent analgesic effects in both inflammatory and neuropathic pain models, accompanied by an improved in vivo safety profile. The results suggest that off-target inhibition of rKv4.2/4.3 by specific spider peptide toxins targeting hNav1.7 may arise from a conserved binding motif. This insight promises to facilitate the design of hNav1.7-specific analgesics, aimed at minimizing rKv4.2/4.3 inhibition and associated toxicity, thereby enhancing their suitability for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Luo
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Xi Zhou
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Meijing Wu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Gongxin Wang
- Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical science, Institute of Electrophysiology, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
| | - Li Wang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Xujun Feng
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Hang Wu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Ren Luo
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Minjuan Lu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Junxian Ju
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Wenxing Wang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Lei Yuan
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Xiaoqing Luo
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Dezheng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Advanced Carbon-based Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Institute of Science and Technology, Yueyang, Hunan, 414006, China
| | - Li Yang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Qingfeng Zhang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Minzhi Chen
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Songping Liang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Xiuming Dong
- Department of Research, Scope Research Institute of Electrophysiology, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Guoliang Hao
- Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical science, Institute of Electrophysiology, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
- Department of Research, Scope Research Institute of Electrophysiology, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Yunxiao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Advanced Carbon-based Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Institute of Science and Technology, Yueyang, Hunan, 414006, China
| | - Zhonghua Liu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
- Peptide and small molecule drug R&D platform, Furong Laboratory, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410081, China
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
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2
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Kesdoğan AB, Neureiter A, Gaebler AJ, Kalia AK, Körner J, Lampert A. Analgesic effect of Botulinum toxin in neuropathic pain is sodium channel independent. Neuropharmacology 2024; 253:109967. [PMID: 38657946 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.109967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxin type A BoNT/A is used off-label as a third line therapy for neuropathic pain. However, the mechanism of action remains unclear. In recent years, the role of voltage-gated sodium channels (Nav) in neuropathic pain became evident and it was suggested that block of sodium channels by BoNT/A would contribute to its analgesic effect. We assessed sodium channel function in the presence of BoNT/A in heterologously expressed Nav1.7, Nav1.3, and the neuronal cell line ND7/23 by high throughput automated and manual patch-clamp. We used both the full protein and the isolated catalytic light chain LC/A for acute or long-term extracellular or intracellular exposure. To assess the toxin's effect in a human cellular system, we differentiated induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) into sensory neurons from a healthy control and a patient suffering from a hereditary neuropathic pain syndrome (inherited erythromelalgia) carrying the Nav1.7/p.Q875E-mutation and carried out multielectrode-array measurements. Both BoNT/A and the isolated catalytic light chain LC/A showed limited effects in heterologous expression systems and the neuronal cell line ND7/23. Spontaneous activity in iPSC derived sensory neurons remained unaltered upon BoNT/A exposure both in neurons from the healthy control and the mutation carrying patient. BoNT/A may not specifically be beneficial in pain syndromes linked to sodium channel variants. The favorable effects of BoNT/A in neuropathic pain are likely based on mechanisms other than sodium channel blockage and new approaches to understand BoNT/A's therapeutic effects are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aylin B Kesdoğan
- Institute of Neurophysiology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany; Scientific Center for Neuropathic Pain Research Aachen, SCN(Aachen), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Anika Neureiter
- Institute of Neurophysiology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Arnim J Gaebler
- Institute of Neurophysiology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany; Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Anil K Kalia
- Institute of Neurophysiology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jannis Körner
- Institute of Neurophysiology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany; Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany; Department of Intensive and Intermediate Care, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany; Scientific Center for Neuropathic Pain Research Aachen, SCN(Aachen), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Angelika Lampert
- Institute of Neurophysiology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany; Scientific Center for Neuropathic Pain Research Aachen, SCN(Aachen), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
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3
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Hernández-Gil J, Chow CY, Chatras H, de Souza França PD, Samuels ZV, Cornejo M, King GF, Lewis JS, Reiner T, Gonzales J. Development and Validation of Nerve-Targeted Bacteriochlorin Sensors. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:14276-14287. [PMID: 37339504 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c02520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
We report an innovative approach to producing bacteriochlorins (bacs) via formal cycloaddition by subjecting a porphyrin to a trimolecular reaction. Bacs are near-infrared probes with the intrinsic ability to serve in multimodal imaging. However, despite their ability to fluoresce and chelate metal ions, existing bacs have thus offered limited ability to label biomolecules for target specificity or have lacked chemical purity, limiting their use in bio-imaging. In this work, bacs allowed a precise and controlled appending of clickable linkers, lending the porphyrinoids substantially more chemical stability, clickability, and solubility, rendering them more suitable for preclinical investigation. Our bac probes enable the targeted use of biomolecules in fluorescence imaging and Cerenkov luminescence for guided intraoperative imaging. Bacs' capacity for chelation provides opportunities for use in non-invasive positron emission tomography/computed tomography. Herein, we report the labeling of bacs with Hs1a, a (NaV1.7)-sodium-channel-binding peptide derived from the Chinese tarantula Cyriopagopus schmidti to yield Bac-Hs1a and radiolabeled Hs1a, which shuttles our bac sensor(s) to mouse nerves. In vivo, the bac sensor allowed us to observe high signal-to-background ratios in the nerves of animals injected with fluorescent Bac-Hs1a and radiolabeled Hs1a in all imaging modes. This study demonstrates that Bac-Hs1a and [64Cu]Cu-Bac-Hs1a accumulate in peripheral nerves, providing contrast and utility in the preclinical space. For the chemistry and bio-imaging fields, this study represents an exciting starting point for the modular manipulation of bacs, their development and use as probes for diagnosis, and their deployment as formidable multiplex nerve-imaging agents for use in routine imaging experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Hernández-Gil
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, United States
- Biomedical MRI/MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Herestraat 49, B3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Instituto de Tecnología Química, Universitat Politècnica de València, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Valencia E-46022, Spain
| | - Chun Yuen Chow
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Research, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Hugo Chatras
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, 2153 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44115, United States
| | - Paula Demétrio de Souza França
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, United States
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 04020-041, Brazil
| | - Zachary V Samuels
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Mike Cornejo
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Research, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Jason S Lewis
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill-Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10065, United States
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, United States
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Thomas Reiner
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill-Cornell Medical College, New York, New York 10065, United States
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, United States
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Junior Gonzales
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Cleveland State University, 2153 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44115, United States
- Center for Gene Regulation in Health and Disease, 2153 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44115, United States
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4
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Venom-derived pain-causing toxins: insights into sensory neuron function and pain mechanisms. Pain 2022; 163:S46-S56. [DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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5
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Muller JAI, Chan LY, Toffoli-Kadri MC, Mortari MR, Craik DJ, Koehbach J. Antinociceptive peptides from venomous arthropods. TOXIN REV 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15569543.2022.2065510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A. I. Muller
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Inflammation, FACFAN/Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lai Y. Chan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Monica C. Toffoli-Kadri
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Inflammation, FACFAN/Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Marcia R. Mortari
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, IB/University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Johannes Koehbach
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
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6
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da Silva CN, Nunes KP, Dourado LFN, Vieira TO, Mariano XM, Cunha Junior ADS, de Lima ME. From the PnTx2-6 Toxin to the PnPP-19 Engineered Peptide: Therapeutic Potential in Erectile Dysfunction, Nociception, and Glaucoma. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:831823. [PMID: 35480885 PMCID: PMC9035689 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.831823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The venom of the “armed” spider Phoneutria nigriventer comprises several potent toxins. One of the most toxic components from this venom is the neurotoxin PnTx2-6 (LD50 = ∼ 0.7 μg/mouse, 48 residues, five disulfide bridges, MW = 5,289.31 Da), which slows down the inactivation of various Na+ channels. In mice and rats, this toxin causes priapism, an involuntary and painful erection, similar to what is observed in humans bitten by P. nigriventer. While not completely elucidated, it is clear that PnTx2-6 potentiates erectile function via NO/cGMP signaling, but it has many off-target effects. Seeking to obtain a simpler and less toxic molecule able to retain the pharmacological properties of this toxin, we designed and synthesized the peptide PnPP-19 (19 residues, MW = 2,485.6 Da), representing a discontinuous epitope of PnTx2-6. This synthetic peptide also potentiates erectile function via NO/cGMP, but it does not target Na+ channels, and therefore, it displays nontoxic properties in animals even at high doses. PnPP-19 effectively potentiates erectile function not only after subcutaneous or intravenous administration but also following topical application. Surprisingly, PnPP-19 showed central and peripheral antinociceptive activity involving the opioid and cannabinoid systems, suggesting applicability in nociception. Furthermore, considering that PnPP-19 increases NO availability in the corpus cavernosum, this peptide was also tested in a model of induced intraocular hypertension, characterized by low NO levels, and it showed promising results by decreasing the intraocular pressure which prevents retinal damage. Herein, we discuss how was engineered this smaller active non-toxic peptide with promising results in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, nociception, and glaucoma from the noxious PnTx2-6, as well as the pitfalls of this ongoing journey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Nunes da Silva
- Departmentamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Maria Elena de Lima, ; Carolina Nunes da Silva, ; Kenia Pedrosa Nunes,
| | - Kenia Pedrosa Nunes
- Department of Biomedical and Chemical Engineering and Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, FL, United States
- *Correspondence: Maria Elena de Lima, ; Carolina Nunes da Silva, ; Kenia Pedrosa Nunes,
| | | | - Thayllon Oliveira Vieira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Biomedicina Faculdade Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Xavier Maia Mariano
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Biomedicina Faculdade Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Elena de Lima
- Departmentamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Biomedicina Faculdade Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Maria Elena de Lima, ; Carolina Nunes da Silva, ; Kenia Pedrosa Nunes,
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7
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Deuis JR, Ragnarsson L, Robinson SD, Dekan Z, Chan L, Jin AH, Tran P, McMahon KL, Li S, Wood JN, Cox JJ, King GF, Herzig V, Vetter I. The Tarantula Venom Peptide Eo1a Binds to the Domain II S3-S4 Extracellular Loop of Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Na V1.8 to Enhance Activation. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:789570. [PMID: 35095499 PMCID: PMC8795738 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.789570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Venoms from cone snails and arachnids are a rich source of peptide modulators of voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels, however relatively few venom-derived peptides with activity at the mammalian NaV1.8 subtype have been isolated. Here, we describe the discovery and functional characterisation of β-theraphotoxin-Eo1a, a peptide from the venom of the Tanzanian black and olive baboon tarantula Encyocratella olivacea that modulates NaV1.8. Eo1a is a 37-residue peptide that increases NaV1.8 peak current (EC50 894 ± 146 nM) and causes a large hyperpolarising shift in both the voltage-dependence of activation (ΔV50-20.5 ± 1.2 mV) and steady-state fast inactivation (ΔV50-15.5 ± 1.8 mV). At a concentration of 10 μM, Eo1a has varying effects on the peak current and channel gating of NaV1.1-NaV1.7, although its activity is most pronounced at NaV1.8. Investigations into the binding site of Eo1a using NaV1.7/NaV1.8 chimeras revealed a critical contribution of the DII S3-S4 extracellular loop of NaV1.8 to toxin activity. Results from this work may form the basis for future studies that lead to the rational design of spider venom-derived peptides with improved potency and selectivity at NaV1.8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R. Deuis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lotten Ragnarsson
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Samuel D. Robinson
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Zoltan Dekan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lerena Chan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ai-Hua Jin
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Poanna Tran
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kirsten L. McMahon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Shengnan Li
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John N. Wood
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - James J. Cox
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Glenn F. King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Volker Herzig
- GeneCology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
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8
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Pharmacological Dissection of the Crosstalk between Na V and Ca V Channels in GH3b6 Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020827. [PMID: 35055012 PMCID: PMC8775721 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Thanks to the crosstalk between Na+ and Ca2+ channels, Na+ and Ca2+ homeostasis interplay in so-called excitable cells enables the generation of action potential in response to electrical stimulation. Here, we investigated the impact of persistent activation of voltage-gated Na+ (NaV) channels by neurotoxins, such as veratridine (VTD), on intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in a model of excitable cells, the rat pituitary GH3b6 cells, in order to identify the molecular actors involved in Na+-Ca2+ homeostasis crosstalk. By combining RT-qPCR, immunoblotting, immunocytochemistry, and patch-clamp techniques, we showed that GH3b6 cells predominantly express the NaV1.3 channel subtype, which likely endorses their voltage-activated Na+ currents. Notably, these Na+ currents were blocked by ICA-121431 and activated by the β-scorpion toxin Tf2, two selective NaV1.3 channel ligands. Using Fura-2, we showed that VTD induced a [Ca2+]i increase. This effect was suppressed by the selective NaV channel blocker tetrodotoxin, as well by the selective L-type CaV channel (LTCC) blocker nifedipine. We also evidenced that crobenetine, a NaV channel blocker, abolished VTD-induced [Ca2+]i elevation, while it had no effects on LTCC. Altogether, our findings highlight a crosstalk between NaV and LTCC in GH3b6 cells, providing a new insight into the mode of action of neurotoxins.
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Dongol Y, Choi PM, Wilson DT, Daly NL, Cardoso FC, Lewis RJ. Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Modulation by a New Spider Toxin Ssp1a Isolated From an Australian Theraphosid. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:795455. [PMID: 35002728 PMCID: PMC8740163 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.795455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the important role of voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channel-modulating spider toxins in elucidating the function, pharmacology, and mechanism of action of therapeutically relevant NaV channels, we screened the venom from Australian theraphosid species against the human pain target hNaV1.7. Using assay-guided fractionation, we isolated a 33-residue inhibitor cystine knot (ICK) peptide (Ssp1a) belonging to the NaSpTx1 family. Recombinant Ssp1a (rSsp1a) inhibited neuronal hNaV subtypes with a rank order of potency hNaV1.7 > 1.6 > 1.2 > 1.3 > 1.1. rSsp1a inhibited hNaV1.7, hNaV1.2 and hNaV1.3 without significantly altering the voltage-dependence of activation, inactivation, or delay in recovery from inactivation. However, rSsp1a demonstrated voltage-dependent inhibition at hNaV1.7 and rSsp1a-bound hNaV1.7 opened at extreme depolarizations, suggesting rSsp1a likely interacted with voltage-sensing domain II (VSD II) of hNaV1.7 to trap the channel in its resting state. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy revealed key structural features of Ssp1a, including an amphipathic surface with hydrophobic and charged patches shown by docking studies to comprise the interacting surface. This study provides the basis for future structure-function studies to guide the development of subtype selective inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashad Dongol
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Phil M. Choi
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - David T. Wilson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Norelle L. Daly
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Fernanda C. Cardoso
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Richard J. Lewis
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Diochot S. Pain-related toxins in scorpion and spider venoms: a face to face with ion channels. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20210026. [PMID: 34925480 PMCID: PMC8667759 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is a common symptom induced during envenomation by spiders and scorpions.
Toxins isolated from their venom have become essential tools for studying the
functioning and physiopathological role of ion channels, as they modulate their
activity. In particular, toxins that induce pain relief effects can serve as a
molecular basis for the development of future analgesics in humans. This review
provides a summary of the different scorpion and spider toxins that directly
interact with pain-related ion channels, with inhibitory or stimulatory effects.
Some of these toxins were shown to affect pain modalities in different animal
models providing information on the role played by these channels in the pain
process. The close interaction of certain gating-modifier toxins with membrane
phospholipids close to ion channels is examined along with molecular approaches
to improve selectivity, affinity or bioavailability in vivo for
therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Diochot
- Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR 7275 et Université Côte d'Azur (UCA), 06560 Valbonne, France. Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique Université Côte d'Azur Valbonne France
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Alles SRA, Smith PA. Peripheral Voltage-Gated Cation Channels in Neuropathic Pain and Their Potential as Therapeutic Targets. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2021; 2:750583. [PMID: 35295464 PMCID: PMC8915663 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2021.750583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The persistence of increased excitability and spontaneous activity in injured peripheral neurons is imperative for the development and persistence of many forms of neuropathic pain. This aberrant activity involves increased activity and/or expression of voltage-gated Na+ and Ca2+ channels and hyperpolarization activated cyclic nucleotide gated (HCN) channels as well as decreased function of K+ channels. Because they display limited central side effects, peripherally restricted Na+ and Ca2+ channel blockers and K+ channel activators offer potential therapeutic approaches to pain management. This review outlines the current status and future therapeutic promise of peripherally acting channel modulators. Selective blockers of Nav1.3, Nav1.7, Nav1.8, Cav3.2, and HCN2 and activators of Kv7.2 abrogate signs of neuropathic pain in animal models. Unfortunately, their performance in the clinic has been disappointing; some substances fail to meet therapeutic end points whereas others produce dose-limiting side effects. Despite this, peripheral voltage-gated cation channels retain their promise as therapeutic targets. The way forward may include (i) further structural refinement of K+ channel activators such as retigabine and ASP0819 to improve selectivity and limit toxicity; use or modification of Na+ channel blockers such as vixotrigine, PF-05089771, A803467, PF-01247324, VX-150 or arachnid toxins such as Tap1a; the use of Ca2+ channel blockers such as TTA-P2, TTA-A2, Z 944, ACT709478, and CNCB-2; (ii) improving methods for assessing "pain" as opposed to nociception in rodent models; (iii) recognizing sex differences in pain etiology; (iv) tailoring of therapeutic approaches to meet the symptoms and etiology of pain in individual patients via quantitative sensory testing and other personalized medicine approaches; (v) targeting genetic and biochemical mechanisms controlling channel expression using anti-NGF antibodies such as tanezumab or re-purposed drugs such as vorinostat, a histone methyltransferase inhibitor used in the management of T-cell lymphoma, or cercosporamide a MNK 1/2 inhibitor used in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis; (vi) combination therapy using drugs that are selective for different channel types or regulatory processes; (vii) directing preclinical validation work toward the use of human or human-derived tissue samples; and (viii) application of molecular biological approaches such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sascha R A Alles
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Peter A Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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12
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Hu H, Mawlawi SE, Zhao T, Deuis JR, Jami S, Vetter I, Lewis RJ, Cardoso FC. Engineering of a Spider Peptide via Conserved Structure-Function Traits Optimizes Sodium Channel Inhibition In Vitro and Anti-Nociception In Vivo. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:742457. [PMID: 34621788 PMCID: PMC8490825 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.742457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Venom peptides are potent and selective modulators of voltage-gated ion channels that regulate neuronal function both in health and in disease. We previously identified the spider venom peptide Tap1a from the Venezuelan tarantula Theraphosa apophysis that targeted multiple voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels in visceral pain pathways and inhibited visceral mechano-sensing neurons contributing to irritable bowel syndrome. In this work, alanine scanning and domain activity analysis revealed Tap1a inhibited sodium channels by binding with nanomolar affinity to the voltage-sensor domain II utilising conserved structure-function features characteristic of spider peptides belonging to family NaSpTx1. In order to speed up the development of optimized NaV-targeting peptides with greater inhibitory potency and enhanced in vivo activity, we tested the hypothesis that incorporating residues identified from other optimized NaSpTx1 peptides into Tap1a could also optimize its potency for NaVs. Applying this approach, we designed the peptides Tap1a-OPT1 and Tap1a-OPT2 exhibiting significant increased potency for NaV1.1, NaV1.2, NaV1.3, NaV1.6 and NaV1.7 involved in several neurological disorders including acute and chronic pain, motor neuron disease and epilepsy. Tap1a-OPT1 showed increased potency for the off-target NaV1.4, while this off-target activity was absent in Tap1a-OPT2. This enhanced potency arose through a slowed off-rate mechanism. Optimized inhibition of NaV channels observed in vitro translated in vivo, with reversal of nocifensive behaviours in a murine model of NaV-mediated pain also enhanced by Tap1a-OPT. Molecular docking studies suggested that improved interactions within loops 3 and 4, and C-terminal of Tap1a-OPT and the NaV channel voltage-sensor domain II were the main drivers of potency optimization. Overall, the rationally designed peptide Tap1a-OPT displayed new and refined structure-function features which are likely the major contributors to its enhanced bioactive properties observed in vivo. This work contributes to the rapid engineering and optimization of potent spider peptides multi-targeting NaV channels, and the research into novel drugs to treat neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hu
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - S E Mawlawi
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - T Zhao
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - J R Deuis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - S Jami
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - I Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - R J Lewis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - F C Cardoso
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Centre for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Trim CM, Byrne LJ, Trim SA. Utilisation of compounds from venoms in drug discovery. PROGRESS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2021; 60:1-66. [PMID: 34147202 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmch.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Difficult drug targets are becoming the normal course of business in drug discovery, sometimes due to large interacting surfaces or only small differences in selectivity regions. For these, a different approach is merited: compounds lying somewhere between the small molecule and the large antibody in terms of many properties including stability, biodistribution and pharmacokinetics. Venoms have evolved over millions of years to be complex mixtures of stable molecules derived from other somatic molecules, the stability comes from the pressure to be ready for delivery at a moment's notice. Snakes, spiders, scorpions, jellyfish, wasps, fish and even mammals have evolved independent venom systems with complex mixtures in their chemical arsenal. These venom-derived molecules have been proven to be useful tools, such as for the development of antihypotensive angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and have also made successful drugs such as Byetta® (Exenatide), Integrilin® (Eptifibatide) and Echistatin. Only a small percentage of the available chemical space from venoms has been investigated so far and this is growing. In a new era of biological therapeutics, venom peptides present opportunities for larger target engagement surface with greater stability than antibodies or human peptides. There are challenges for oral absorption and target engagement, but there are venom structures that overcome these and thus provide substrate for engineering novel molecules that combine all desired properties. Venom researchers are characterising new venoms, species, and functions all the time, these provide great substrate for solving the challenges presented by today's difficult targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol M Trim
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Social Sciences, Natural and Applied Sciences, School of Psychology and Life Sciences, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Lee J Byrne
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Social Sciences, Natural and Applied Sciences, School of Psychology and Life Sciences, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom
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14
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Cardoso FC, Castro J, Grundy L, Schober G, Garcia-Caraballo S, Zhao T, Herzig V, King GF, Brierley SM, Lewis RJ. A spider-venom peptide with multitarget activity on sodium and calcium channels alleviates chronic visceral pain in a model of irritable bowel syndrome. Pain 2021; 162:569-581. [PMID: 32826759 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Chronic pain is a serious debilitating condition that affects ∼20% of the world's population. Currently available drugs fail to produce effective pain relief in many patients and have dose-limiting side effects. Several voltage-gated sodium (NaV) and calcium (CaV) channels are implicated in the etiology of chronic pain, particularly NaV1.1, NaV1.3, NaV1.7-NaV1.9, CaV2.2, and CaV3.2. Numerous NaV and CaV modulators have been described, but with few exceptions, they display poor potency and/or selectivity for pain-related channel subtypes. Here, we report the discovery and characterization of 2 novel tarantula-venom peptides (Tap1a and Tap2a) isolated from Theraphosa apophysis venom that modulate the activity of both NaV and CaV3 channels. Tap1a and Tap2a inhibited on-target NaV and CaV3 channels at nanomolar to micromolar concentrations and displayed moderate off-target selectivity for NaV1.6 and weak affinity for NaV1.4 and NaV1.5. The most potent inhibitor, Tap1a, nearly ablated neuronal mechanosensitivity in afferent fibers innervating the colon and the bladder, with in vivo intracolonic administration reversing colonic mechanical hypersensitivity in a mouse model of irritable bowel syndrome. These findings suggest that targeting a specific combination of NaV and CaV3 subtypes provides a novel route for treatment of chronic visceral pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda C Cardoso
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Joel Castro
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Luke Grundy
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Gudrun Schober
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Sonia Garcia-Caraballo
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Tianjiao Zhao
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Volker Herzig
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Science and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
| | - Glenn F King
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stuart M Brierley
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Richard J Lewis
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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15
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Zhang Y, Wang L, Peng D, Zhang Q, Yang Q, Li J, Li D, Tang D, Chen M, Liang S, Liu Y, Wang S, Liu Z. Engineering of highly potent and selective HNTX-III mutant against hNa v1.7 sodium channel for treatment of pain. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100326. [PMID: 33493520 PMCID: PMC7988488 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Human voltage-gated sodium channel Nav1.7 (hNav1.7) is involved in the generation and conduction of neuropathic and nociceptive pain signals. Compelling genetic and preclinical studies have validated that hNav1.7 is a therapeutic target for the treatment of pain; however, there is a dearth of currently available compounds capable of targeting hNav1.7 with high potency and specificity. Hainantoxin-III (HNTX-III) is a 33-residue polypeptide from the venom of the spider Ornithoctonus hainana. It is a selective antagonist of neuronal tetrodotoxin-sensitive voltage-gated sodium channels. Here, we report the engineering of improved potency and Nav selectivity of hNav1.7 inhibition peptides derived from the HNTX-III scaffold. Alanine scanning mutagenesis showed key residues for HNTX-III interacting with hNav1.7. Site-directed mutagenesis analysis indicated key residues on hNav1.7 interacting with HNTX-III. Molecular docking was conducted to clarify the binding interface between HNTX-III and Nav1.7 and guide the molecular engineering process. Ultimately, we obtained H4 [K0G1-P18K-A21L-V] based on molecular docking of HNTX-III and hNav1.7 with a 30-fold improved potency (IC50 0.007 ± 0.001 μM) and >1000-fold selectivity against Nav1.4 and Nav1.5. H4 also showed robust analgesia in the acute and chronic inflammatory pain model and neuropathic pain model. Thus, our results provide further insight into peptide toxins that may prove useful in guiding the development of inhibitors with improved potency and selectivity for Nav subtypes with robust analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxiao Zhang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Advanced Carbon-based Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Institute of Science and Technology, Yueyang, Hunan, China
| | - Li Wang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Dezheng Peng
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Advanced Carbon-based Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Institute of Science and Technology, Yueyang, Hunan, China
| | - Qingfeng Zhang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qiuchu Yang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jiayan Li
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Dan Li
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Dongfang Tang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Minzhi Chen
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Songping Liang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Advanced Carbon-based Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Institute of Science and Technology, Yueyang, Hunan, China.
| | - Sheng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Zhonghua Liu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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16
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Hauke TJ, Herzig V. Love bites - Do venomous arachnids make safe pets? Toxicon 2020; 190:65-72. [PMID: 33307110 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
With a global estimate of tens of thousands of arachnid enthusiasts, spiders and scorpions are gaining increasing popularity as pets in industrialised countries in Europe, Northern America and Asia. As most spiders and all scorpions are venomous and due to their mostly negative image in the public media, several governments are already considering introducing legislation to regulate the domestic care of potentially dangerous captive animals. We aimed to investigate the circumstances and effects of exposure to arachnids kept in captivity. Thus, we collected and analysed data from 354 self-reported bites and stings attributed to pet arachnids. Our data revealed that on average there were less than 20 recorded envenomations per year with ~90% preventable by due care. We also categorized the severity of the resulting symptoms and found that the vast majority of symptoms were either local (60.7%) or minor (32.8%), 5.4% were asymptomatic, only 1.1% were severe and no fatalities were recorded. Based on our database of bite and sting reports, we performed a risk assessment for arachnid pet ownership and concluded that, with the proper care, arachnids can be safely kept as pets and pose a lower risk than many other recreational activities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Volker Herzig
- GeneCology Research Centre, School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, 4556, Australia.
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Pain modulatory properties of Phoneutria nigriventer crude venom and derived peptides: A double-edged sword. Toxicon 2020; 185:120-128. [PMID: 32668276 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Phoneutria nigriventer venom (PNV) is a complex mixture of toxins exerting multiple pharmacological effects that ultimately result in severe local pain at the site of the bite. It has been proposed that the PNV-induced pain is mediated by both peripheral and central mechanisms. The nociception triggered by PNV is peripherally mediated by the activation of B2, 5-HT4, NMDA, AMPA, NK1, and NK2 receptors, as well as TTXS-Na+, ASIC, and TRPV1 channels. The activation of tachykinin, glutamate and CGRP receptors along with the production of inflammatory mediators are, at least partially, responsible for the central component of pain. Despite its well established pro-nociceptive properties, PNV contains some toxins with antinociceptive activity, which have been studied in the last few years. The toxins ω-CNTX-Pn4a, ω-CNTX-Pn2a, ω-CNTX-Pn3a, κ-CNTX-Pn1a, U7-CNTX-Pn1a, δ-CNTX-Pn1a, and Γ-CNTX-Pn1a from PNV, as well as the semi-synthetic peptide PnPP-19 have been tested in different experimental models of pain showing consistent antinociceptive properties. This review aims to discuss the pro- and antinociceptive actions of PNV and its toxins, highlighting possible mechanisms involved in these apparently dualistic properties.
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18
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Cardoso FC. Multi-targeting sodium and calcium channels using venom peptides for the treatment of complex ion channels-related diseases. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 181:114107. [PMID: 32579958 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Venom peptides are amongst the most exquisite group of bioactive molecules able to alter the normal physiology of organisms. These bioactive peptides penetrate tissues and blood vessels to encounter a number of receptors and ion channels to which they bind with high affinity and execute modulatory activities. Arachnid is the most diverse class of venomous animals often rich in peptides modulating voltage-gated sodium (NaV), calcium (CaV), and potassium (KV) channels. Spider venoms, in particular, contain potent and selective peptides targeting these channels, with a few displaying interesting multi-target properties for NaV and CaV channels underlying disease mechanisms such as in neuropathic pain, motor neuron disease and cancer. The elucidation of the pharmacology and structure-function properties of these venom peptides are invaluable for the development of effective drugs targeting NaV and CaV channels. This perspective discusses spider venom peptides displaying multi-target properties to modulate NaV and CaV channels in regard to their pharmacological features, structure-function relationships and potential to become the next generation of effective drugs to treat neurological disorders and other multi-ion channels related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda C Cardoso
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Rd., St Lucia, QLD AU 4072, Australia
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Rupasinghe DB, Herzig V, Vetter I, Dekan Z, Gilchrist J, Bosmans F, Alewood PF, Lewis RJ, King GF. Mutational analysis of ProTx-I and the novel venom peptide Pe1b provide insight into residues responsible for selective inhibition of the analgesic drug target Na V1.7. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 181:114080. [PMID: 32511987 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Management of chronic pain presents a major challenge, since many currently available treatments lack efficacy and have problems such as addiction and tolerance. Loss of function mutations in the SCN9A gene lead to a congenital inability to feel pain, with no other sensory deficits aside from anosmia. SCN9A encodes the voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channel 1.7 (NaV1.7), which has been identified as a primary pain target. However, in developing NaV1.7-targeted analgesics, extreme care must to be taken to avoid off-target activity on other NaV subtypes that are critical for survival. Since spider venoms are an excellent source of NaV channel modulators, we screened a panel of spider venoms to identify selective NaV1.7 inhibitors. This led to identification of two novel NaV modulating venom peptides (β/μ-theraphotoxin-Pe1a and β/μ-theraphotoxin-Pe1b (Pe1b) from the arboreal tarantula Phormingochilus everetti. A third peptide isolated from the tarantula Bumba pulcherrimaklaasi was identical to the well-known ProTx-I (β/ω-theraphotoxin-Tp1a) from the tarantula Thrixopelma pruriens. A tethered toxin (t-toxin)-based alanine scanning strategy was used to determine the NaV1.7 pharmacophore of ProTx-I. We designed several ProTx-I and Pe1b analogues, and tested them for activity and NaV channel subtype selectivity. Several analogues had improved potency against NaV1.7, and altered specificity against other NaV channels. These analogues provide a foundation for development of Pe1b as a lead molecule for therapeutic inhibition of NaV1.7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darshani B Rupasinghe
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Volker Herzig
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4105, Australia
| | - Zoltan Dekan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - John Gilchrist
- Department of Physiology and Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Frank Bosmans
- Department of Physiology and Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Paul F Alewood
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Richard J Lewis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
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20
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Gonzales J, Pirovano G, Chow CY, de Souza Franca PD, Carter LM, Klint JK, Guru N, Lewis JS, King GF, Reiner T. Fluorescence labeling of a Na V1.7-targeted peptide for near-infrared nerve visualization. EJNMMI Res 2020; 10:49. [PMID: 32409881 PMCID: PMC7225226 DOI: 10.1186/s13550-020-00630-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accidental peripheral nerve injury during surgical intervention results in a broad spectrum of potentially debilitating side effects. Tissue distortion and poor visibility can significantly increase the risk of nerve injury with long-lasting consequences for the patient. We developed and characterized Hs1a-FL, a fluorescent near-infrared molecule for nerve visualization in the operating theater with the aim of helping physicians to visualize nerves during surgery. Hs1a was derived from the venom of the Chinese bird spider, Haplopelma schmidti, and conjugated to Cy7.5 dye. Hs1a-FL was injected intravenously in mice, and harvested nerves were imaged microscopically and with epifluorescence. RESULTS Hs1a-FL showed specific and stable binding to the sodium channel NaV1.7, present on the surface of human and mouse nerves. Hs1a-FL allowed epifluorescence visualization of sciatic mouse nerves with favorable nerve-to-muscle contrast. CONCLUSIONS Fluorescent NaV1.7-targeted tracers have the potential to be adopted clinically for the intraoperative visualization of peripheral nerves during surgery, providing guidance for the surgeon and potentially improving the standard of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junior Gonzales
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Giacomo Pirovano
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Chun Yuen Chow
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | | | - Lukas M Carter
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Julie K Klint
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia
- Current address: H. Lundbeck A/S, Ottiliavej 9, 2500, Valby, Denmark
| | - Navjot Guru
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Jason S Lewis
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill-Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Thomas Reiner
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Center for Molecular Imaging and Nanotechnology (CMINT), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Chemical Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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21
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Yin K, Deuis JR, Dekan Z, Jin AH, Alewood PF, King GF, Herzig V, Vetter I. Addition of K22 Converts Spider Venom Peptide Pme2a from an Activator to an Inhibitor of Na V1.7. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8020037. [PMID: 32092883 PMCID: PMC7167818 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8020037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Spider venom is a novel source of disulfide-rich peptides with potent and selective activity at voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV). Here, we describe the discovery of μ-theraphotoxin-Pme1a and μ/δ-theraphotoxin-Pme2a, two novel peptides from the venom of the Gooty Ornamental tarantula Poecilotheria metallica that modulate NaV channels. Pme1a is a 35 residue peptide that inhibits NaV1.7 peak current (IC50 334 ± 114 nM) and shifts the voltage dependence of activation to more depolarised membrane potentials (V1/2 activation: Δ = +11.6 mV). Pme2a is a 33 residue peptide that delays fast inactivation and inhibits NaV1.7 peak current (EC50 > 10 μM). Synthesis of a [+22K]Pme2a analogue increased potency at NaV1.7 (IC50 5.6 ± 1.1 μM) and removed the effect of the native peptide on fast inactivation, indicating that a lysine at position 22 (Pme2a numbering) is important for inhibitory activity. Results from this study may be used to guide the rational design of spider venom-derived peptides with improved potency and selectivity at NaV channels in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Yin
- Centre for Health Informatics, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109, Australia;
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (J.R.D.); (Z.D.); (P.F.A.); (G.F.K.)
| | - Jennifer R. Deuis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (J.R.D.); (Z.D.); (P.F.A.); (G.F.K.)
| | - Zoltan Dekan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (J.R.D.); (Z.D.); (P.F.A.); (G.F.K.)
| | - Ai-Hua Jin
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (J.R.D.); (Z.D.); (P.F.A.); (G.F.K.)
| | - Paul F. Alewood
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (J.R.D.); (Z.D.); (P.F.A.); (G.F.K.)
| | - Glenn F. King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (J.R.D.); (Z.D.); (P.F.A.); (G.F.K.)
| | - Volker Herzig
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (J.R.D.); (Z.D.); (P.F.A.); (G.F.K.)
- School of Science & Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD 4556, Australia
- Correspondence: (V.H.); (I.V.); Tel.: +61-7-5456-5382 (V.H.); +61-7-3346-2660 (I.V.)
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (J.R.D.); (Z.D.); (P.F.A.); (G.F.K.)
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
- Correspondence: (V.H.); (I.V.); Tel.: +61-7-5456-5382 (V.H.); +61-7-3346-2660 (I.V.)
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High-Throughput Fluorescence Assays for Ion Channels and GPCRs. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1131:27-72. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-12457-1_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Newly Discovered Action of HpTx3 from Venom of Heteropoda venatoria on Na v1.7 and Its Pharmacological Implications in Analgesia. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11120680. [PMID: 31757020 PMCID: PMC6950750 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11120680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been reported that Heteropodatoxin3 (HpTx3), a peptidic neurotoxin purified from the venom of the spider species Heteropoda venatoria, could inhibit Kv4.2 channels. Our present study newly found that HpTx3 also has potent and selective inhibitory action on Nav1.7, with an IC50 of 135.61 ± 12.98 nM. Without effect on the current–voltage (I-V) relationship of Nav1.7, HpTx3 made minor alternation in the voltage-dependence of activation and steady-state inactivation of Nav1.7 (4.15 mV and 7.29 mV, respectively) by interacting with the extracellular S3–S4 loop (S3b–S4 sequence) in domain II and the domain IV of the Nav channel subtype, showing the characteristics of both pore blocker and gate modifier toxin. During the interaction of HpTx3 with the S3b–S4 sequence of Nav1.7, the amino acid residue D in the sequence played a key role. When administered intraperitoneally or intramuscularly, HpTx3 displayed potent analgesic activity in a dose-dependent manner in different mouse pain models induced by formalin, acetic acid, complete Freund’s adjuvant, hot plate, or spared nerve injury, demonstrating that acute, inflammatory, and neuropathic pains were all effectively inhibited by the toxin. In most cases HpTx3 at doses of ≥ 1mg/kg could produce the analgesic effect comparable to that of 1 mg/kg morphine. These results suggest that HpTx3 not only can be used as a molecular probe to investigate ion channel function and pain mechanism, but also has potential in the development of the drugs that treat the Nav1.7 channel-related pain.
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24
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Spider Knottin Pharmacology at Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels and Their Potential to Modulate Pain Pathways. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11110626. [PMID: 31671792 PMCID: PMC6891507 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11110626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channels (NaVs) are a key determinant of neuronal signalling. Neurotoxins from diverse taxa that selectively activate or inhibit NaV channels have helped unravel the role of NaV channels in diseases, including chronic pain. Spider venoms contain the most diverse array of inhibitor cystine knot (ICK) toxins (knottins). This review provides an overview on how spider knottins modulate NaV channels and describes the structural features and molecular determinants that influence their affinity and subtype selectivity. Genetic and functional evidence support a major involvement of NaV subtypes in various chronic pain conditions. The exquisite inhibitory properties of spider knottins over key NaV subtypes make them the best lead molecules for the development of novel analgesics to treat chronic pain.
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25
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Bibic L, Herzig V, King GF, Stokes L. Development of High-Throughput Fluorescent-Based Screens to Accelerate Discovery of P2X Inhibitors from Animal Venoms. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2019; 82:2559-2567. [PMID: 31532206 PMCID: PMC7123434 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.9b00410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Animal venoms can play an important role in drug discovery, as they are a rich source of evolutionarily tuned compounds that target a variety of ion channels and receptors. To date, there are six FDA-approved drugs derived from animal venoms, with recent work using high-throughput platforms providing a variety of new therapeutic candidates. However, high-throughput methods for screening animal venoms against purinoceptors, one of the oldest signaling receptor families, have not been reported. Here, we describe a variety of quantitative fluorescent-based high-throughput screening (HTS) cell-based assays for screening animal venoms against ligand-gated P2X receptors. A diverse selection of 180 venoms from arachnids, centipedes, hymenopterans, and cone snails were screened, analyzed, and validated, both analytically and pharmacologically. Using this approach, we performed screens against human P2X3, P2X4, and P2X7 using three different fluorescent-based dyes on stable cell lines and isolated the active venom components. Our HTS assays are performed in 96-well format and allow simultaneous screening of multiple venoms on multiple targets, improving testing characteristics while minimizing costs, specimen material, and testing time. Moreover, utilizing our assays and applying them to the other natural product libraries, rather than venoms, might yield other novel natural products that modulate P2X activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucka Bibic
- School
of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7TJ, U.K.
| | - Volker Herzig
- Institute
for Molecular Bioscience, University of
Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Glenn F. King
- Institute
for Molecular Bioscience, University of
Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Leanne Stokes
- School
of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7TJ, U.K.
- E-mail:
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26
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Evaluation of the Spider ( Phlogiellus genus) Phlotoxin 1 and Synthetic Variants as Antinociceptive Drug Candidates. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11090484. [PMID: 31443554 PMCID: PMC6784069 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11090484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the two last decades, venom toxins have been explored as alternatives to opioids to treat chronic debilitating pain. At present, approximately 20 potential analgesic toxins, mainly from spider venoms, are known to inhibit with high affinity the NaV1.7 subtype of voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels, the most promising genetically validated antinociceptive target identified so far. The present study aimed to consolidate the development of phlotoxin 1 (PhlTx1), a 34-amino acid and 3-disulfide bridge peptide of a Phlogiellus genus spider, as an antinociceptive agent by improving its affinity and selectivity for the human (h) NaV1.7 subtype. The synthetic homologue of PhlTx1 was generated and equilibrated between two conformers on reverse-phase liquid chromatography and exhibited potent analgesic effects in a mouse model of NaV1.7-mediated pain. The effects of PhlTx1 and 8 successfully synthetized alanine-substituted variants were studied (by automated whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology) on cell lines stably overexpressing hNaV subtypes, as well as two cardiac targets, the hCaV1.2 and hKV11.1 subtypes of voltage-gated calcium (CaV) and potassium (KV) channels, respectively. PhlTx1 and D7A-PhlTx1 were shown to inhibit hNaV1.1-1.3 and 1.5-1.7 subtypes at hundred nanomolar concentrations, while their affinities for hNaV1.4 and 1.8, hCaV1.2 and hKV11.1 subtypes were over micromolar concentrations. Despite similar analgesic effects in the mouse model of NaV1.7-mediated pain and selectivity profiles, the affinity of D7A-PhlTx1 for the NaV1.7 subtype was at least five times higher than that of the wild-type peptide. Computational modelling was performed to deduce the 3D-structure of PhlTx1 and to suggest the amino acids involved in the efficiency of the molecule. In conclusion, the present structure-activity relationship study of PhlTx1 results in a low improved affinity of the molecule for the NaV1.7 subtype, but without any marked change in the molecule selectivity against the other studied ion channel subtypes. Further experiments are therefore necessary before considering the development of PhlTx1 or synthetic variants as antinociceptive drug candidates.
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27
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Schmidt JO. Pain and Lethality Induced by Insect Stings: An Exploratory and Correlational Study. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11070427. [PMID: 31330893 PMCID: PMC6669698 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11070427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain is a natural bioassay for detecting and quantifying biological activities of venoms. The painfulness of stings delivered by ants, wasps, and bees can be easily measured in the field or lab using the stinging insect pain scale that rates the pain intensity from 1 to 4, with 1 being minor pain, and 4 being extreme, debilitating, excruciating pain. The painfulness of stings of 96 species of stinging insects and the lethalities of the venoms of 90 species was determined and utilized for pinpointing future directions for investigating venoms having pharmaceutically active principles that could benefit humanity. The findings suggest several under- or unexplored insect venoms worthy of future investigations, including: those that have exceedingly painful venoms, yet with extremely low lethality—tarantula hawk wasps (Pepsis) and velvet ants (Mutillidae); those that have extremely lethal venoms, yet induce very little pain—the ants, Daceton and Tetraponera; and those that have venomous stings and are both painful and lethal—the ants Pogonomyrmex, Paraponera, Myrmecia, Neoponera, and the social wasps Synoeca, Agelaia, and Brachygastra. Taken together, and separately, sting pain and venom lethality point to promising directions for mining of pharmaceutically active components derived from insect venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin O Schmidt
- Southwestern Biological Institute, 1961 W. Brichta Dr., Tucson, AZ 85745, USA.
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28
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Nicolas S, Zoukimian C, Bosmans F, Montnach J, Diochot S, Cuypers E, De Waard S, Béroud R, Mebs D, Craik D, Boturyn D, Lazdunski M, Tytgat J, De Waard M. Chemical Synthesis, Proper Folding, Na v Channel Selectivity Profile and Analgesic Properties of the Spider Peptide Phlotoxin 1. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11060367. [PMID: 31234412 PMCID: PMC6628435 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11060367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Phlotoxin-1 (PhlTx1) is a peptide previously identified in tarantula venom (Phlogius species) that belongs to the inhibitory cysteine-knot (ICK) toxin family. Like many ICK-based spider toxins, the synthesis of PhlTx1 appears particularly challenging, mostly for obtaining appropriate folding and concomitant suitable disulfide bridge formation. Herein, we describe a procedure for the chemical synthesis and the directed sequential disulfide bridge formation of PhlTx1 that allows for a straightforward production of this challenging peptide. We also performed extensive functional testing of PhlTx1 on 31 ion channel types and identified the voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channel Nav1.7 as the main target of this toxin. Moreover, we compared PhlTx1 activity to 10 other spider toxin activities on an automated patch-clamp system with Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells expressing human Nav1.7. Performing these analyses in reproducible conditions allowed for classification according to the potency of the best natural Nav1.7 peptide blockers. Finally, subsequent in vivo testing revealed that intrathecal injection of PhlTx1 reduces the response of mice to formalin in both the acute pain and inflammation phase without signs of neurotoxicity. PhlTx1 is thus an interesting toxin to investigate Nav1.7 involvement in cellular excitability and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Nicolas
- Institut du Thorax, Inserm UMR 1087/CNRS UMR 6291, LabEx "Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics", F-44007 Nantes, France.
| | - Claude Zoukimian
- Smartox Biotechnology, 6 rue des Platanes, F-38120 Saint-Egrève, France.
- Department of Molecular Chemistry, Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, 570 rue de la chimie, CS 40700, 38000 Grenoble, France.
| | - Frank Bosmans
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, 9000 Gent, Belgium.
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, P.O. Box 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Jérôme Montnach
- Institut du Thorax, Inserm UMR 1087/CNRS UMR 6291, LabEx "Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics", F-44007 Nantes, France.
| | - Sylvie Diochot
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS UMR7275, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, 660 route des lucioles, 6560 Valbonne, France.
| | - Eva Cuypers
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, P.O. Box 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Stephan De Waard
- Institut du Thorax, Inserm UMR 1087/CNRS UMR 6291, LabEx "Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics", F-44007 Nantes, France.
| | - Rémy Béroud
- Smartox Biotechnology, 6 rue des Platanes, F-38120 Saint-Egrève, France.
| | - Dietrich Mebs
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Frankfurt, Kennedyallee 104, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - David Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia.
| | - Didier Boturyn
- Department of Molecular Chemistry, Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, 570 rue de la chimie, CS 40700, 38000 Grenoble, France.
| | - Michel Lazdunski
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS UMR7275, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, 660 route des lucioles, 6560 Valbonne, France.
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, P.O. Box 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Michel De Waard
- Institut du Thorax, Inserm UMR 1087/CNRS UMR 6291, LabEx "Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics", F-44007 Nantes, France.
- Smartox Biotechnology, 6 rue des Platanes, F-38120 Saint-Egrève, France.
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Brown Spider ( Loxosceles) Venom Toxins as Potential Biotools for the Development of Novel Therapeutics. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11060355. [PMID: 31248109 PMCID: PMC6628458 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11060355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Brown spider envenomation results in dermonecrosis with gravitational spreading characterized by a marked inflammatory reaction and with lower prevalence of systemic manifestations such as renal failure and hematological disturbances. Several toxins make up the venom of these species, and they are mainly peptides and proteins ranging from 5–40 kDa. The venoms have three major families of toxins: phospholipases-D, astacin-like metalloproteases, and the inhibitor cystine knot (ICK) peptides. Serine proteases, serpins, hyaluronidases, venom allergens, and a translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) are also present. Toxins hold essential biological properties that enable interactions with a range of distinct molecular targets. Therefore, the application of toxins as research tools and clinical products motivates repurposing their uses of interest. This review aims to discuss possibilities for brown spider venom toxins as putative models for designing molecules likely for therapeutics based on the status quo of brown spider venoms. Herein, we explore new possibilities for the venom components in the context of their biochemical and biological features, likewise their cellular targets, three-dimensional structures, and mechanisms of action.
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30
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Wu T, Wang M, Wu W, Luo Q, Jiang L, Tao H, Deng M. Spider venom peptides as potential drug candidates due to their anticancer and antinociceptive activities. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2019; 25:e146318. [PMID: 31210759 PMCID: PMC6551028 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-14-63-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Spider venoms are known to contain proteins and polypeptides that perform various
functions including antimicrobial, neurotoxic, analgesic, cytotoxic, necrotic,
and hemagglutinic activities. Currently, several classes of natural molecules
from spider venoms are potential sources of chemotherapeutics against tumor
cells. Some of the spider peptide toxins produce lethal effects on tumor cells
by regulating the cell cycle, activating caspase pathway or inactivating
mitochondria. Some of them also target the various types of ion channels
(including voltage-gated calcium channels, voltage-gated sodium channels, and
acid-sensing ion channels) among other pain-related targets. Herein we review
the structure and pharmacology of spider-venom peptides that are being used as
leads for the development of therapeutics against the pathophysiological
conditions including cancer and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China.,Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China.,Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Wenfang Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Qianxuan Luo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Liping Jiang
- Department of Parasitology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Huai Tao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Meichun Deng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
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Murray JK, Wu B, Tegley CM, Nixey TE, Falsey JR, Herberich B, Yin L, Sham K, Long J, Aral J, Cheng Y, Netirojjanakul C, Doherty L, Glaus C, Ikotun T, Li H, Tran L, Soto M, Salimi-Moosavi H, Ligutti J, Amagasu S, Andrews KL, Be X, Lin MHJ, Foti RS, Ilch CP, Youngblood B, Kornecook TJ, Karow M, Walker KW, Moyer BD, Biswas K, Miranda LP. Engineering Na V1.7 Inhibitory JzTx-V Peptides with a Potency and Basicity Profile Suitable for Antibody Conjugation To Enhance Pharmacokinetics. ACS Chem Biol 2019; 14:806-818. [PMID: 30875193 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.9b00183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Drug discovery research on new pain targets with human genetic validation, including the voltage-gated sodium channel NaV1.7, is being pursued to address the unmet medical need with respect to chronic pain and the rising opioid epidemic. As part of early research efforts on this front, we have previously developed NaV1.7 inhibitory peptide-antibody conjugates with tarantula venom-derived GpTx-1 toxin peptides with an extended half-life (80 h) in rodents but only moderate in vitro activity (hNaV1.7 IC50 = 250 nM) and without in vivo activity. We identified the more potent peptide JzTx-V from our natural peptide collection and improved its selectivity against other sodium channel isoforms through positional analogueing. Here we report utilization of the JzTx-V scaffold in a peptide-antibody conjugate and architectural variations in the linker, peptide loading, and antibody attachment site. We found conjugates with 100-fold improved in vitro potency relative to those of complementary GpTx-1 analogues, but pharmacokinetic and bioimaging analyses of these JzTx-V conjugates revealed a shorter than expected plasma half-life in vivo with accumulation in the liver. In an attempt to increase circulatory serum levels, we sought the reduction of the net +6 charge of the JzTx-V scaffold while retaining a desirable NaV in vitro activity profile. The conjugate of a JzTx-V peptide analogue with a +2 formal charge maintained NaV1.7 potency with 18-fold improved plasma exposure in rodents. Balancing the loss of peptide and conjugate potency associated with the reduction of net charge necessary for improved target exposure resulted in a compound with moderate activity in a NaV1.7-dependent pharmacodynamic model but requires further optimization to identify a conjugate that can fully engage NaV1.7 in vivo.
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Cardoso FC, Lewis RJ. Structure-Function and Therapeutic Potential of Spider Venom-Derived Cysteine Knot Peptides Targeting Sodium Channels. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:366. [PMID: 31031623 PMCID: PMC6470632 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Spider venom-derived cysteine knot peptides are a mega-diverse class of molecules that exhibit unique pharmacological properties to modulate key membrane protein targets. Voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV) are often targeted by these peptides to allosterically promote opening or closing of the channel by binding to structural domains outside the channel pore. These effects can result in modified pain responses, muscle paralysis, cardiac arrest, priapism, and numbness. Although such effects are often deleterious, subtype selective spider venom peptides are showing potential to treat a range of neurological disorders, including chronic pain and epilepsy. This review examines the structure–activity relationships of cysteine knot peptides from spider venoms that modulate NaV and discusses their potential as leads to novel therapies for neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda C Cardoso
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Richard J Lewis
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
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Bennett DL, Clark AJ, Huang J, Waxman SG, Dib-Hajj SD. The Role of Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels in Pain Signaling. Physiol Rev 2019; 99:1079-1151. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00052.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute pain signaling has a key protective role and is highly evolutionarily conserved. Chronic pain, however, is maladaptive, occurring as a consequence of injury and disease, and is associated with sensitization of the somatosensory nervous system. Primary sensory neurons are involved in both of these processes, and the recent advances in understanding sensory transduction and human genetics are the focus of this review. Voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) are important determinants of sensory neuron excitability: they are essential for the initial transduction of sensory stimuli, the electrogenesis of the action potential, and neurotransmitter release from sensory neuron terminals. Nav1.1, Nav1.6, Nav1.7, Nav1.8, and Nav1.9 are all expressed by adult sensory neurons. The biophysical characteristics of these channels, as well as their unique expression patterns within subtypes of sensory neurons, define their functional role in pain signaling. Changes in the expression of VGSCs, as well as posttranslational modifications, contribute to the sensitization of sensory neurons in chronic pain states. Furthermore, gene variants in Nav1.7, Nav1.8, and Nav1.9 have now been linked to human Mendelian pain disorders and more recently to common pain disorders such as small-fiber neuropathy. Chronic pain affects one in five of the general population. Given the poor efficacy of current analgesics, the selective expression of particular VGSCs in sensory neurons makes these attractive targets for drug discovery. The increasing availability of gene sequencing, combined with structural modeling and electrophysiological analysis of gene variants, also provides the opportunity to better target existing therapies in a personalized manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L. Bennett
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; and Rehabilitation Research Center, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Alex J. Clark
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; and Rehabilitation Research Center, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Jianying Huang
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; and Rehabilitation Research Center, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Stephen G. Waxman
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; and Rehabilitation Research Center, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Sulayman D. Dib-Hajj
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; and Rehabilitation Research Center, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
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Maatuf Y, Geron M, Priel A. The Role of Toxins in the Pursuit for Novel Analgesics. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11020131. [PMID: 30813430 PMCID: PMC6409898 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11020131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a major medical issue which reduces the quality of life of millions and inflicts a significant burden on health authorities worldwide. Currently, management of chronic pain includes first-line pharmacological therapies that are inadequately effective, as in just a portion of patients pain relief is obtained. Furthermore, most analgesics in use produce severe or intolerable adverse effects that impose dose restrictions and reduce compliance. As the majority of analgesic agents act on the central nervous system (CNS), it is possible that blocking pain at its source by targeting nociceptors would prove more efficient with minimal CNS-related side effects. The development of such analgesics requires the identification of appropriate molecular targets and thorough understanding of their structural and functional features. To this end, plant and animal toxins can be employed as they affect ion channels with high potency and selectivity. Moreover, elucidation of the toxin-bound ion channel structure could generate pharmacophores for rational drug design while favorable safety and analgesic profiles could highlight toxins as leads or even as valuable therapeutic compounds themselves. Here, we discuss the use of plant and animal toxins in the characterization of peripherally expressed ion channels which are implicated in pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yossi Maatuf
- The Institute for Drug Research (IDR), School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel.
| | - Matan Geron
- The Institute for Drug Research (IDR), School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel.
| | - Avi Priel
- The Institute for Drug Research (IDR), School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel.
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35
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Saez NJ, Herzig V. Versatile spider venom peptides and their medical and agricultural applications. Toxicon 2018; 158:109-126. [PMID: 30543821 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.11.298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Spiders have been evolving complex and diverse repertoires of peptides in their venoms with vast pharmacological activities for more than 300 million years. Spiders use their venoms for prey capture and defense, hence they contain peptides that target both prey (mainly arthropods) and predators (other arthropods or vertebrates). This includes peptides that potently and selectively modulate a range of targets such as ion channels, receptors and signaling pathways involved in physiological processes. The contribution of these targets in particular disease pathophysiologies makes spider venoms a valuable source of peptides with potential therapeutic use. In addition, peptides with insecticidal activities, used for prey capture, can be exploited for the development of novel bioinsecticides for agricultural use. Although we have already reviewed potential applications of spider venom peptides as therapeutics (in 2010) and as bioinsecticides (in 2012), a considerable number of research articles on both topics have been published since, warranting an updated review. Here we explore the most recent research on the use of spider venom peptides for both medical and agricultural applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie J Saez
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Volker Herzig
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
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Martínez AL, Brea J, Monroy X, Merlos M, Burgueño J, Loza MI. A New Model of Sensorial Neuron-Like Cells for HTS of Novel Analgesics for Neuropathic Pain. SLAS DISCOVERY 2018; 24:158-168. [PMID: 30383474 DOI: 10.1177/2472555218810323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In this study we developed a new translational phenotypic in vitro model for high-throughput screening (HTS) of novel analgesics for treating neuropathic pain, in order to address the poor translation of traditional recombinant models. The immortalized dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neuron-like F11 cell line was selected based on its phenotype after differentiation. The acquisition of neuronal characteristics was evaluated by measuring the expression of TrkA as a DRG neuron marker ( p < 0.01) as well as by measuring the global neurite length ( p < 0.001). The response of F11 cells to ATP and KCl was obtained by measuring intracellular calcium concentration, dynamic mass redistribution, and membrane potential. A KCl-induced increase of intracellular calcium levels was chosen as the readout because of the better signal quality, higher reproducibility, and greater compatibility with HTS assay requirements compared with other methods. The response to KCl differed significantly between differentiated and undifferentiated cells ( p < 0.05), with an EC50 value of 5 mM in differentiated cells. The model was validated by screening the Prestwick Chemical Library. Five hits already proposed for neuropathic-related pain were identified, with IC50 values between 1 and 7 µM. This cell model provides a new tool for screening novel analgesics for the relief of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antón L Martínez
- 1 BioFarma Research Group, Centro Singular de Investigación en Medicina Molecular y Enfermedades Crónicas (CIMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - José Brea
- 1 BioFarma Research Group, Centro Singular de Investigación en Medicina Molecular y Enfermedades Crónicas (CIMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Xavier Monroy
- 2 Esteve Pharmaceuticals, Parc Cientific de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Merlos
- 2 Esteve Pharmaceuticals, Parc Cientific de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Burgueño
- 2 Esteve Pharmaceuticals, Parc Cientific de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Isabel Loza
- 1 BioFarma Research Group, Centro Singular de Investigación en Medicina Molecular y Enfermedades Crónicas (CIMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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Ginsentides: Cysteine and Glycine-rich Peptides from the Ginseng Family with Unusual Disulfide Connectivity. Sci Rep 2018; 8:16201. [PMID: 30385768 PMCID: PMC6212409 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33894-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Ginseng, a popular and valuable traditional medicine, has been used for centuries to maintain health and treat disease. Here we report the discovery and characterization of ginsentides, a novel family of cysteine and glycine-rich peptides derived from the three most widely-used ginseng species: Panax ginseng, Panax quinquefolius, and Panax notoginseng. Using proteomic and transcriptomic methods, we identified 14 ginsentides, TP1-TP14 which consist of 31-33 amino acids and whose expression profiles are species- and tissues-dependent. Ginsentides have an eight-cysteine motif typical of the eight-cysteine-hevein-like peptides (8C-HLP) commonly found in medicinal herbs, but lack a chitin-binding domain. Transcriptomic analysis showed that the three-domain biosynthetic precursors of ginsentides differ from known 8C-HLP precursors in architecture and the absence of a C-terminal protein-cargo domain. A database search revealed an additional 50 ginsentide-like precursors from both gymnosperms and angiosperms. Disulfide mapping and structure determination of the ginsentide TP1 revealed a novel disulfide connectivity that differs from the 8C-HLPs. The structure of ginsentide TP1 is highly compact, with the N- and C-termini topologically fixed by disulfide bonds to form a pseudocyclic structure that confers resistance to heat, proteolysis, and acid and serum-mediated degradation. Together, our results expand the chemical space of natural products found in ginseng and highlight the occurrence, distribution, disulfide connectivity, and precursor architectures of cysteine- and glycine-rich ginsentides as a class of novel non-chitin-binding, non-cargo-carrying 8C-HLPs.
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38
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Zhang Y, Peng D, Huang B, Yang Q, Zhang Q, Chen M, Rong M, Liu Z. Discovery of a Novel Na v1.7 Inhibitor From Cyriopagopus albostriatus Venom With Potent Analgesic Efficacy. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1158. [PMID: 30386239 PMCID: PMC6198068 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Spider venoms contain a vast array of bioactive peptides targeting ion channels. A large number of peptides have high potency and selectivity toward sodium channels. Nav1.7 contributes to action potential generation and propagation and participates in pain signaling pathway. In this study, we describe the identification of μ-TRTX-Ca2a (Ca2a), a novel 35-residue peptide from the venom of Vietnam spider Cyriopagopus albostriatus (C. albostriatus) that potently inhibits Nav1.7 (IC50 = 98.1 ± 3.3 nM) with high selectivity against skeletal muscle isoform Nav1.4 (IC50 > 10 μM) and cardiac muscle isoform Nav1.5 (IC50 > 10 μM). Ca2a did not significantly alter the voltage-dependent activation or fast inactivation of Nav1.7, but it hyperpolarized the slow inactivation. Site-directed mutagenesis analysis indicated that Ca2a bound with Nav1.7 at the extracellular S3–S4 linker of domain II. Meanwhile, Ca2a dose-dependently attenuated pain behaviors in rodent models of formalin-induced paw licking, hot plate test, and acetic acid-induced writhing. This study indicates that Ca2a is a potential lead molecule for drug development of novel analgesics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxiao Zhang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Dezheng Peng
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Biao Huang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiuchu Yang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Qingfeng Zhang
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Minzhi Chen
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Mingqiang Rong
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhonghua Liu
- The National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Animal Peptide Drug Development, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
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Gonçalves TC, Benoit E, Partiseti M, Servent D. The Na V1.7 Channel Subtype as an Antinociceptive Target for Spider Toxins in Adult Dorsal Root Ganglia Neurons. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1000. [PMID: 30233376 PMCID: PMC6131673 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Although necessary for human survival, pain may sometimes become pathologic if long-lasting and associated with alterations in its signaling pathway. Opioid painkillers are officially used to treat moderate to severe, and even mild, pain. However, the consequent strong and not so rare complications that occur, including addiction and overdose, combined with pain management costs, remain an important societal and economic concern. In this context, animal venom toxins represent an original source of antinociceptive peptides that mainly target ion channels (such as ASICs as well as TRP, CaV, KV and NaV channels) involved in pain transmission. The present review aims to highlight the NaV1.7 channel subtype as an antinociceptive target for spider toxins in adult dorsal root ganglia neurons. It will detail (i) the characteristics of these primary sensory neurons, the first ones in contact with pain stimulus and conveying the nociceptive message, (ii) the electrophysiological properties of the different NaV channel subtypes expressed in these neurons, with a particular attention on the NaV1.7 subtype, an antinociceptive target of choice that has been validated by human genetic evidence, and (iii) the features of spider venom toxins, shaped of inhibitory cysteine knot motif, that present high affinity for the NaV1.7 subtype associated with evidenced analgesic efficacy in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tânia C Gonçalves
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery - High Content Biology, Paris, France.,Service d'Ingénierie Moléculaire des Protéines, CEA de Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Evelyne Benoit
- Service d'Ingénierie Moléculaire des Protéines, CEA de Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France.,Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, UMR CNRS/Université Paris-Sud 9197, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Michel Partiseti
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery - High Content Biology, Paris, France
| | - Denis Servent
- Service d'Ingénierie Moléculaire des Protéines, CEA de Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
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Ma L, Chin YKY, Dekan Z, Herzig V, Chow CY, Heighway J, Lam SW, Guillemin GJ, Alewood PF, King GF. Novel venom-derived inhibitors of the human EAG channel, a putative antiepileptic drug target. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 158:60-72. [PMID: 30149017 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Recently, we and other groups revealed that gain-of-function mutations in the human ether à go-go voltage-gated potassium channel hEAG1 (Kv10.1) lead to developmental disorders with associated infantile-onset epilepsy. However, the physiological role of hEAG1 in the central nervous system remains elusive. Potent and selective antagonists of hEAG1 are therefore much sought after, both as pharmacological tools for studying the (patho)physiological functions of this enigmatic channel and as potential leads for development of anti-epileptic drugs. Since animal venoms are a rich source of potent ion channel modifiers that have been finely tuned by millions of year of evolution, we screened 108 arachnid venoms for hEAG1 inhibitors using electrophysiology. Two hit peptides (Aa1a and Ap1a) were isolated, sequenced, and chemically synthesised for structure-function studies. Both of these hEAG1 inhibitors are C-terminally amidated peptides containing an inhibitor cystine knot motif, which provides them with exceptional stability in both plasma and cerebrospinal fluid. Aa1a and Ap1a are the most potent peptidic inhibitors of hEAG1 reported to date, and they present a novel mode of action by targeting both the activation and inactivation gating of the channel. These peptides should be useful pharmacological tools for probing hEAG1 function as well as informative leads for the development of novel anti-epileptic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Ma
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Yanni K Y Chin
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Zoltan Dekan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Volker Herzig
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Chun Yuen Chow
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Jacqueline Heighway
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Sau Wing Lam
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia; St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Paul F Alewood
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
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41
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A complicated complex: Ion channels, voltage sensing, cell membranes and peptide inhibitors. Neurosci Lett 2018; 679:35-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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42
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Cardoso FC, Lewis RJ. Sodium channels and pain: from toxins to therapies. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:2138-2157. [PMID: 28749537 PMCID: PMC5980290 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV channels) are essential for the initiation and propagation of action potentials that critically influence our ability to respond to a diverse range of stimuli. Physiological and pharmacological studies have linked abnormal function of NaV channels to many human disorders, including chronic neuropathic pain. These findings, along with the description of the functional properties and expression pattern of NaV channel subtypes, are helping to uncover subtype specific roles in acute and chronic pain and revealing potential opportunities to target these with selective inhibitors. High-throughput screens and automated electrophysiology platforms have identified natural toxins as a promising group of molecules for the development of target-specific analgesics. In this review, the role of toxins in defining the contribution of NaV channels in acute and chronic pain states and their potential to be used as analgesic therapies are discussed. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Recent Advances in Targeting Ion Channels to Treat Chronic Pain. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.12/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda C Cardoso
- Department of Chemistry and Structural Biology, Institute for Molecular BioscienceThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQLDAustralia
| | - Richard J Lewis
- Department of Chemistry and Structural Biology, Institute for Molecular BioscienceThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQLDAustralia
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43
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Akef HM. Anticancer, antimicrobial, and analgesic activities of spider venoms. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2018; 7:381-395. [PMID: 30090588 PMCID: PMC6060684 DOI: 10.1039/c8tx00022k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Spider venoms are complex mixtures composed of a variety of compounds, including salts, small organic molecules, peptides, and proteins. But, the venom of a few species is dangerous to humans. High levels of chemical diversity make spider venoms attractive subjects for chemical prospecting. Many spider venom components show potential activity against a wide range of human diseases. However, the development of novel venom-derived therapeutics requires an understanding of their mechanisms of action. This review will highlight the structures, activities and the possible mechanisms of action of spider venoms and their components against cancer, microbial infections, and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan M Akef
- National Organization for Research and Control of Biologicals (NORCB) , Giza , Egypt . ; ; Tel: +20-2-37480478
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Moyer BD, Murray JK, Ligutti J, Andrews K, Favreau P, Jordan JB, Lee JH, Liu D, Long J, Sham K, Shi L, Stöcklin R, Wu B, Yin R, Yu V, Zou A, Biswas K, Miranda LP. Pharmacological characterization of potent and selective NaV1.7 inhibitors engineered from Chilobrachys jingzhao tarantula venom peptide JzTx-V. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0196791. [PMID: 29723257 PMCID: PMC5933747 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0196791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Identification of voltage-gated sodium channel NaV1.7 inhibitors for chronic pain therapeutic development is an area of vigorous pursuit. In an effort to identify more potent leads compared to our previously reported GpTx-1 peptide series, electrophysiology screening of fractionated tarantula venom discovered the NaV1.7 inhibitory peptide JzTx-V from the Chinese earth tiger tarantula Chilobrachys jingzhao. The parent peptide displayed nominal selectivity over the skeletal muscle NaV1.4 channel. Attribute-based positional scan analoging identified a key Ile28Glu mutation that improved NaV1.4 selectivity over 100-fold, and further optimization yielded the potent and selective peptide leads AM-8145 and AM-0422. NMR analyses revealed that the Ile28Glu substitution changed peptide conformation, pointing to a structural rationale for the selectivity gains. AM-8145 and AM-0422 as well as GpTx-1 and HwTx-IV competed for ProTx-II binding in HEK293 cells expressing human NaV1.7, suggesting that these NaV1.7 inhibitory peptides interact with a similar binding site. AM-8145 potently blocked native tetrodotoxin-sensitive (TTX-S) channels in mouse dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons, exhibited 30- to 120-fold selectivity over other human TTX-S channels and exhibited over 1,000-fold selectivity over other human tetrodotoxin-resistant (TTX-R) channels. Leveraging NaV1.7-NaV1.5 chimeras containing various voltage-sensor and pore regions, AM-8145 mapped to the second voltage-sensor domain of NaV1.7. AM-0422, but not the inactive peptide analog AM-8374, dose-dependently blocked capsaicin-induced DRG neuron action potential firing using a multi-electrode array readout and mechanically-induced C-fiber spiking in a saphenous skin-nerve preparation. Collectively, AM-8145 and AM-0422 represent potent, new engineered NaV1.7 inhibitory peptides derived from the JzTx-V scaffold with improved NaV selectivity and biological activity in blocking action potential firing in both DRG neurons and C-fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan D. Moyer
- Neuroscience, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Justin K. Murray
- Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
| | - Joseph Ligutti
- Neuroscience, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
| | - Kristin Andrews
- Molecular Engineering, Amgen Discovery Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | | | - John B. Jordan
- Discovery Attribute Sciences, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
| | - Josie H. Lee
- Neuroscience, Amgen Discovery Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Dong Liu
- Neuroscience, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
| | - Jason Long
- Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
| | - Kelvin Sham
- Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
| | - Licheng Shi
- Neuroscience, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
| | - Reto Stöcklin
- Atheris Laboratories, CH Bernex, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bin Wu
- Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
| | - Ruoyuan Yin
- Neuroscience, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
| | - Violeta Yu
- Neuroscience, Amgen Discovery Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Anruo Zou
- Neuroscience, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
| | - Kaustav Biswas
- Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
| | - Les P. Miranda
- Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen Discovery Research, Thousand Oaks, California, United States of America
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Gilchrist J, Bosmans F. Using voltage-sensor toxins and their molecular targets to investigate Na V 1.8 gating. J Physiol 2018; 596:1863-1872. [PMID: 29193176 DOI: 10.1113/jp275102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium (NaV ) channel gating is a complex phenomenon which involves a distinct contribution of four integral voltage-sensing domains (VSDI, VSDII, VSDIII and VSDIV). Utilizing accrued pharmacological and structural insights, we build on an established chimera approach to introduce animal toxin sensitivity in each VSD of an acceptor channel by transferring in portable S3b-S4 motifs from the four VSDs of a toxin-susceptible donor channel (NaV 1.2). By doing so, we observe that in NaV 1.8, a relatively unexplored channel subtype with distinctly slow gating kinetics, VSDI-III participate in channel opening whereas VSDIV can regulate opening as well as fast inactivation. These results illustrate the effectiveness of a pharmacological approach to investigate the mechanism underlying gating of a mammalian NaV channel complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Gilchrist
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Frank Bosmans
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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Identification, chemical synthesis and heterologous expression of an antinociceptive peptide from the veined tree frog Trachycephalus typhonius. Process Biochem 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.procbio.2017.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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47
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Animal toxins for channelopathy treatment. Neuropharmacology 2017; 132:83-97. [PMID: 29080794 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Ion channels are transmembrane proteins that allow passive flow of ions inside and/or outside of cells or cell organelles. Except mutations lead to nonfunctional protein production or abolished receptor entrance on the membrane surface an altered channel may have two principal conditions that can be corrected. The channel may conduct fewer ions through (loss-of-function mutations) or too many ions (gain-of-function mutations) compared to a normal channel. Toxins from animal venoms are specialised molecules that are generally oriented toward interactions with ion channels. This is a result of long coevolution between predators and their prey. On the molecular level, toxins activate or inhibit ion channels, so they are ideal molecules for restoring conductance in mutated channels. Another aspect of this long coevolution is that a broad variety of toxins have been fine tuned to recognize the channels of different species, keeping many amino acids substitution among sequences. Many peptide ligands with high selectivity to specific receptor subtypes have been isolated from animal venoms, some of which are absolutely non-toxic to humans and mammalians. It is expected that molecules that are selective to each known receptor can be found in animal venoms, but the pool of toxins currently does not override all receptors described as being involved in channelopathies. Modern investigating methods have enhanced the search process for selective ligands. One prominent method is a site-directed mutagenesis of existing toxins to change the selectivity or/and affinity to the selected receptor, which has shown positive results. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Channelopathies.'
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48
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Sousa SR, Wingerd JS, Brust A, Bladen C, Ragnarsson L, Herzig V, Deuis JR, Dutertre S, Vetter I, Zamponi GW, King GF, Alewood PF, Lewis RJ. Discovery and mode of action of a novel analgesic β-toxin from the African spider Ceratogyrus darlingi. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0182848. [PMID: 28880874 PMCID: PMC5589098 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0182848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Spider venoms are rich sources of peptidic ion channel modulators with important therapeutical potential. We screened a panel of 60 spider venoms to find modulators of ion channels involved in pain transmission. We isolated, synthesized and pharmacologically characterized Cd1a, a novel peptide from the venom of the spider Ceratogyrus darlingi. Cd1a reversibly paralysed sheep blowflies (PD50 of 1318 pmol/g) and inhibited human Cav2.2 (IC50 2.6 μM) but not Cav1.3 or Cav3.1 (IC50 > 30 μM) in fluorimetric assays. In patch-clamp electrophysiological assays Cd1a inhibited rat Cav2.2 with similar potency (IC50 3 μM) without influencing the voltage dependence of Cav2.2 activation gating, suggesting that Cd1a doesn’t act on Cav2.2 as a classical gating modifier toxin. The Cd1a binding site on Cav2.2 did not overlap with that of the pore blocker ω-conotoxin GVIA, but its activity at Cav2.2-mutant indicated that Cd1a shares some molecular determinants with GVIA and MVIIA, localized near the pore region. Cd1a also inhibited human Nav1.1–1.2 and Nav1.7–1.8 (IC50 0.1–6.9 μM) but not Nav1.3–1.6 (IC50 > 30 μM) in fluorimetric assays. In patch-clamp assays, Cd1a strongly inhibited human Nav1.7 (IC50 16 nM) and produced a 29 mV depolarising shift in Nav1.7 voltage dependence of activation. Cd1a (400 pmol) fully reversed Nav1.7-evoked pain behaviours in mice without producing side effects. In conclusion, Cd1a inhibited two anti-nociceptive targets, appearing to interfere with Cav2.2 inactivation gating, associated with the Cav2.2 α-subunit pore, while altering the activation gating of Nav1.7. Cd1a was inactive at some of the Nav and Cav channels expressed in skeletal and cardiac muscles and nodes of Ranvier, apparently contributing to the lack of side effects at efficacious doses, and suggesting potential as a lead for development of peripheral pain treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silmara R. Sousa
- IMB Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Joshua S. Wingerd
- IMB Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Andreas Brust
- IMB Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Christopher Bladen
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Lotten Ragnarsson
- IMB Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Volker Herzig
- IMB Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jennifer R. Deuis
- IMB Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sebastien Dutertre
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, Université Montpellier - CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Irina Vetter
- IMB Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Gerald W. Zamponi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Glenn F. King
- IMB Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Paul F. Alewood
- IMB Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Richard J. Lewis
- IMB Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- * E-mail:
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49
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Hilder TA, Robinson A, Chung SH. Functionalized Fullerene Targeting Human Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel, hNa v1.7. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:1747-1755. [PMID: 28586206 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations of hNav1.7 that cause its activities to be enhanced contribute to severe neuropathic pain. Only a small number of hNav1.7 specific inhibitors have been identified, most of which interact with the voltage-sensing domain of the voltage-activated sodium ion channel. In our previous computational study, we demonstrated that a [Lys6]-C84 fullerene binds tightly (affinity of 46 nM) to NavAb, the voltage-gated sodium channel from the bacterium Arcobacter butzleri. Here, we extend this work and, using molecular dynamics simulations, demonstrate that the same [Lys6]-C84 fullerene binds strongly (2.7 nM) to the pore of a modeled human sodium ion channel hNav1.7. In contrast, the fullerene binds only weakly to a mutated model of hNav1.7 (I1399D) (14.5 mM) and a model of the skeletal muscle hNav1.4 (3.7 mM). Comparison of one representative sequence from each of the nine human sodium channel isoforms shows that only hNav1.7 possesses residues that are critical for binding the fullerene derivative and blocking the channel pore.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamsyn A. Hilder
- School
of Chemical and Physical Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6040, New Zealand
- Computational
Biophysics Group, Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Anna Robinson
- Computational
Biophysics Group, Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Shin-Ho Chung
- Computational
Biophysics Group, Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia
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50
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Agwa AJ, Huang YH, Craik DJ, Henriques ST, Schroeder CI. Lengths of the C-Terminus and Interconnecting Loops Impact Stability of Spider-Derived Gating Modifier Toxins. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 9:toxins9080248. [PMID: 28805686 PMCID: PMC5577582 DOI: 10.3390/toxins9080248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Spider gating modifier toxins (GMTs) are potent modulators of voltage-gated ion channels and have thus attracted attention as drug leads for several pathophysiological conditions. GMTs contain three disulfide bonds organized in an inhibitory cystine knot, which putatively confers them with high stability; however, thus far, there has not been a focused study to establish the stability of GMTs in physiological conditions. We examined the resistance of five GMTs including GpTx-1, HnTx-IV, HwTx-IV, PaurTx-3 and SgTx-1, to pH, thermal and proteolytic degradation. The peptides were stable under physiological conditions, except SgTx-1, which was susceptible to proteolysis, probably due to a longer C-terminus compared to the other peptides. In non-physiological conditions, the five peptides withstood chaotropic degradation, and all but SgTx-1 remained intact after prolonged exposure to high temperature; however, the peptides were degraded in strongly alkaline solutions. GpTx-1 and PaurTx-3 were more resistant to basic hydrolysis than HnTx-IV, HwTx-IV and SgTx-1, probably because a shorter interconnecting loop 3 on GpTx-1 and PaurTx-3 may stabilize interactions between the C-terminus and the hydrophobic patch. Here, we establish that most GMTs are exceptionally stable, and propose that, in the design of GMT-based therapeutics, stability can be enhanced by optimizing the C-terminus in terms of length, and increased interactions with the hydrophobic patch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akello J Agwa
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.
| | - Sónia T Henriques
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.
| | - Christina I Schroeder
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.
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