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Wall BJ, Sharma KK, O’Brien EA, Donovan A, VanVeller B. General Installation of (4 H)-Imidazolone cis-Amide Bioisosteres Along the Peptide Backbone. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:11648-11656. [PMID: 38629317 PMCID: PMC11062833 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c13825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Imidazolones represent an important class of heterocycles present in a wide range of pharmaceuticals, metabolites, and bioactive natural products and serve as the active chromophore in green fluorescent protein. Recently, imidazolones have received attention for their ability to act as a nonaromatic amide bond bioisotere which improves pharmacological properties. Herein, we present a tandem amidine installation and cyclization with an adjacent ester to yield (4H)-imidazolone products. Using amino acid building blocks, we can access the first examples of α-chiral imidazolones that have been previously inaccessible. Additionally, our method is amenable to on-resin installation which can be seamlessly integrated into existing solid-phase peptide synthesis protocols. Finally, we show that peptide imidazolones are potent cis-amide bond surrogates that preorganize linear peptides for head-to-tail macrocyclization. This work represents the first general approach to the backbone and side-chain insertion of imidazolone bioisosteres at various positions in linear and cyclic peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J. Wall
- Department of Chemistry, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | | | | | - Aaron Donovan
- Department of Chemistry, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Brett VanVeller
- Department of Chemistry, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
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2
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Cresti L, Cappello G, Vailati S, Melloni E, Brunetti J, Falciani C, Bracci L, Pini A. In Vivo Efficacy and Toxicity of an Antimicrobial Peptide in a Model of Endotoxin-Induced Pulmonary Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097967. [PMID: 37175674 PMCID: PMC10178222 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
SET-M33 is a synthetic peptide that is being developed as a new antibiotic against major Gram-negative bacteria. Here we report two in vivo studies to assess the toxicity and efficacy of the peptide in a murine model of pulmonary inflammation. First, we present the toxicity study in which SET-M33 was administered to CD-1 mice by snout inhalation exposure for 1 h/day for 7 days at doses of 5 and 20 mg/kg/day. The results showed adverse clinical signs and effects on body weight at the higher dose, as well as some treatment-related histopathology findings (lungs and bronchi, nose/turbinates, larynx and tracheal bifurcation). On this basis, the no observable adverse effect level (NOAEL) was considered to be 5 mg/kg/day. We then report an efficacy study of the peptide in an endotoxin (LPS)-induced pulmonary inflammation model. Intratracheal administration of SET-M33 at 0.5, 2 and 5 mg/kg significantly inhibited BAL neutrophil cell counts after an LPS challenge. A significant reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines, KC, MIP-1α, IP-10, MCP-1 and TNF-α was also recorded after SET-M33 administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cresti
- U.O.C. Clinical Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Via M. Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cappello
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
- SetLance srl, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | | | - Elsa Melloni
- Zambon spa, Via A. Meucci 3, 20091 Bresso, Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- U.O.C. Clinical Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Via M. Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- U.O.C. Clinical Pathology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Via M. Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Medical Biotechnology Department, University of Siena, Via A Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
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3
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Cresti L, Conte G, Cappello G, Brunetti J, Falciani C, Bracci L, Quaglia F, Ungaro F, d’Angelo I, Pini A. Inhalable Polymeric Nanoparticles for Pulmonary Delivery of Antimicrobial Peptide SET-M33: Antibacterial Activity and Toxicity In Vitro and In Vivo. Pharmaceutics 2022; 15:pharmaceutics15010003. [PMID: 36678633 PMCID: PMC9863998 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of inhalable formulations for delivering peptides to the conductive airways and shielding their interactions with airway barriers, thus enhancing peptide/bacteria interactions, is an important part of peptide-based drug development for lung applications. Here, we report the construction of a biocompatible nanosystem where the antimicrobial peptide SET-M33 is encapsulated within polymeric nanoparticles of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) conjugated with polyethylene glycol (PEG). This system was conceived for better delivery of the peptide to the lungs by aerosol. The encapsulated peptide showed prolonged antibacterial activity, due to its controlled release, and much lower toxicity than the free molecule. The peptide-based nanosystem killed Pseudomonas aeruginosa in planktonic and sessile forms in a dose-dependent manner, remaining active up to 72 h after application. The encapsulated peptide showed no cytotoxicity when incubated with human bronchial epithelial cells from healthy individuals and from cystic fibrosis patients, unlike the free peptide, which showed an EC50 of about 22 µM. In vivo acute toxicity studies in experimental animals showed that the peptide nanosystem did not cause any appreciable side effects, and confirmed its ability to mitigate the toxic and lethal effects of free SET-M33.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cresti
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
- SetLance srl, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Gemma Conte
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cappello
- SetLance srl, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Fabiana Quaglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Francesca Ungaro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Ivana d’Angelo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy
- Correspondence: (I.d.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Correspondence: (I.d.); (A.P.)
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4
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Safety evaluations of a synthetic antimicrobial peptide administered intravenously in rats and dogs. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19294. [PMID: 36369523 PMCID: PMC9652379 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23841-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The antimicrobial peptide SET-M33 is under study for the development of a new antibiotic against major Gram-negative pathogens. Here we report the toxicological evaluation of SET-M33 administered intravenously to rats and dogs. Dose range finding experiments determined the doses to use in toxicokinetic evaluation, clinical biochemistry analysis, necroscopy and in neurological and respiratory measurements. Clinical laboratory investigations in dogs and rats showed a dose-related increase in creatinine and urea levels, indicating that the kidneys are the target organ. This was also confirmed by necroscopy studies of animal tissues, where signs of degeneration and regeneration were found in kidney when SET-M33 was administered at the highest doses in the two animal species. Neurological toxicity measurements by the Irwin method and respiratory function evaluation in rats did not reveal any toxic effect even at the highest dose. Finally, repeated administration of SET-M33 by short infusion in dogs revealed a no-observed-adverse-effect-level of 0.5 mg/kg/day.
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5
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Pashapour A, Sardari S, Ehsani P. In Silico Design and In Vitro Evaluation of Some Novel AMPs Derived From Human LL-37 as Potential Antimicrobial Agents for Keratitis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2022; 21:e124017. [PMID: 36710989 PMCID: PMC9872548 DOI: 10.5812/ijpr-124017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The human body produces two classes of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), namely defensins and cathelicidins. In this study, a novel decapeptide (Catoid) and its dimer (Dicatoid) based on human cathelicidin (LL-37) have been designed by bioinformatics tools to be used in the treatment of bacterial keratitis. After the selection and synthesis of peptide sequences, their antimicrobial activities against the standard and resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus were evaluated. This test was performed with LL-37, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, amikacin, and penicillin for a more accurate comparison. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity levels of the specified compounds on fibroblast cells and bovine corneal endothelial cells were investigated. The results demonstrated that the designed peptides had a superior antimicrobial activity on P. aeruginosa, compared to LL-37; however, Catoid had a better effect on the S. aureus strain. Additionally, a significant achievement is the very low toxicity level of Catoid and Dicatoid on the human skin fibroblast cell line and bovine corneal endothelial cells, compared to that of LL-37 as the initial design model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arsalan Pashapour
- Drug Design and Bioinformatics Unit, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soroush Sardari
- Drug Design and Bioinformatics Unit, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- Corresponding Author: Drug Design and Bioinformatics Unit, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Parastoo Ehsani
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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6
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Vanzolini T, Bruschi M, Rinaldi AC, Magnani M, Fraternale A. Multitalented Synthetic Antimicrobial Peptides and Their Antibacterial, Antifungal and Antiviral Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:545. [PMID: 35008974 PMCID: PMC8745555 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the great strides in healthcare during the last century, some challenges still remained unanswered. The development of multi-drug resistant bacteria, the alarming growth of fungal infections, the emerging/re-emerging of viral diseases are yet a worldwide threat. Since the discovery of natural antimicrobial peptides able to broadly hit several pathogens, peptide-based therapeutics have been under the lenses of the researchers. This review aims to focus on synthetic peptides and elucidate their multifaceted mechanisms of action as antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal agents. Antimicrobial peptides generally affect highly preserved structures, e.g., the phospholipid membrane via pore formation or other constitutive targets like peptidoglycans in Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, and glucan in the fungal cell wall. Additionally, some peptides are particularly active on biofilm destabilizing the microbial communities. They can also act intracellularly, e.g., on protein biosynthesis or DNA replication. Their intracellular properties are extended upon viral infection since peptides can influence several steps along the virus life cycle starting from viral receptor-cell interaction to the budding. Besides their mode of action, improvements in manufacturing to increase their half-life and performances are also taken into consideration together with advantages and impairments in the clinical usage. Thus far, the progress of new synthetic peptide-based approaches is making them a promising tool to counteract emerging infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Vanzolini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, PU, Italy; (T.V.); (M.M.); (A.F.)
| | - Michela Bruschi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, PU, Italy; (T.V.); (M.M.); (A.F.)
| | - Andrea C. Rinaldi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy;
| | - Mauro Magnani
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, PU, Italy; (T.V.); (M.M.); (A.F.)
| | - Alessandra Fraternale
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, PU, Italy; (T.V.); (M.M.); (A.F.)
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Wang Y, Chang RYK, Britton WJ, Chan HK. Advances in the development of antimicrobial peptides and proteins for inhaled therapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 180:114066. [PMID: 34813794 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides and proteins (APPs) are becoming increasingly important in targeting multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. APPs is a rapidly emerging area with novel molecules being produced and further optimised to enhance antimicrobial efficacy, while overcoming issues associated with biologics such as potential toxicity and low bioavailability resulting from short half-life. Inhalation delivery of these agents can be an effective treatment of respiratory infections owing to the high local drug concentration in the lungs with lower exposure to systemic circulation hence reducing systemic toxicity. This review describes the recent studies on inhaled APPs, including in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial activities, toxicity assessments, and formulation strategies whenever available. The review also includes studies on combination of APPs with other antimicrobial agents to achieve enhanced synergistic antimicrobial effect. Since different APPs have different biological and chemical stabilities, a targeted formulation strategy should be considered for developing stable and inhalable antimicrobial peptides and proteins. These strategies include the use of sodium chloride to reduce electrostatic interaction between APP and extracellular DNA in sputum, the use of D-enantiomers or dendrimers to minimise protease-mediated degradation and or the use of prodrugs to reduce toxicity. Although great effort has been put towards optimising the biological functions of APPs, studies assessing biological stability in inhalable aerosols are scarce, particularly for novel molecules. As such, formulation and manufacture of inhalable liquid and powder formulations of APPs are underexplored, yet they are crucial areas of research for clinical translation.
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Santos‐Filho NA, Righetto GM, Pereira MR, Piccoli JP, Almeida LMT, Leal TC, Camargo ILBC, Cilli EM. Effect of C‐terminal and N‐terminal dimerization and alanine scanning on antibacterial activity of the analogs of the peptide
p‐BthTX‐I. Pept Sci (Hoboken) 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/pep2.24243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Effects of Substituting Arginine by Lysine in Bovine Lactoferricin Derived Peptides: Pursuing Production Lower Costs, Lower Hemolysis, and Sustained Antimicrobial Activity. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10207-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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10
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Gogoi P, Shrivastava S, Shah P, Saxena S, Srivastava S, Gaur GK. Linear and Branched Forms of Short Antimicrobial Peptide-IRK Inhibit Growth of Multi Drug Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolates from Mastitic Cow Milk. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10243-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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11
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Seyedjavadi SS, Khani S, Amani J, Halabian R, Goudarzi M, Hosseini HM, Eslamifar A, Shams-Ghahfarokhi M, Imani Fooladi AA, Razzaghi-Abyaneh M. Design, Dimerization, and Recombinant Production of MCh-AMP1-Derived Peptide in Escherichia coli and Evaluation of Its Antifungal Activity and Cytotoxicity. FRONTIERS IN FUNGAL BIOLOGY 2021; 2:638595. [PMID: 37744143 PMCID: PMC10512307 DOI: 10.3389/ffunb.2021.638595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Fungal species resistant to current antifungal agents are considered as a serious threat to human health, the dilemma that has dragged attentions toward other sources of antifungals such as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). In order to improve biological activity of a recently described antifungal peptide MCh-AMP1 from Matricaria chamomilla flowers, MCh-AMP1dimer (DiMCh-AMP1), containing 61 amino acid residues connected by flexible linker (GPDGSGPDESGPDES), was designed and expressed in Escherichia coli, and its structure was analyzed using bioinformatics tools. DiMCh-AMP1 synthetic gene was cloned into pET-28a expression vector, which was then used to transform E. coli BL21 (DE3) strain. His-tag purification was achieved using metal-chelate affinity chromatography. Because there is no methionine residue in the DiMCh-AMP1 sequence, cyanogen bromide was successfully used to separate the target product from the tag. Reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography was used as the final step of purification. Results showed that recombinant peptide was produced in considerable amounts (0.9 mg/L) with improved antifungal activity toward both yeasts and molds compared to its monomeric counterpart. The minimum inhibition concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration values of DiMCh-AMP1 against Candida and Aspergillus species were reported in the range of 1.67-6.66 μM and 3.33-26.64 μM, respectively. Our results showed that while antifungal activity of dimerized peptide was improved considerably, its cytotoxicity was decreased, implying that DiMCh-AMP1 could be a potential candidate to design an effective antifungal agent against pathogenic yeasts and molds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Soghra Khani
- Department of Mycology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar Amani
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Raheleh Halabian
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Goudarzi
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamideh Mahmoodzadeh Hosseini
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Eslamifar
- Department of Clinical Research, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Abbas Ali Imani Fooladi
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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12
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Santos-Filho NA, de Freitas LM, Santos CTD, Piccoli JP, Fontana CR, Fusco-Almeida AM, Cilli EM. Understanding the mechanism of action of peptide (p-BthTX-I) 2 derived from C-terminal region of phospholipase A2 (PLA 2)-like bothropstoxin-I on Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Toxicon 2021; 196:44-55. [PMID: 33781796 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Based on the antimicrobial activity of bothropstoxin-I (BthTX-I) and on the premise that a C-terminal peptide of Lys49 myotoxin can reproduce the antimicrobial activity of the parent protein, we aimed to study the mechanism of action of a peptide derived from the C-terminal region of the myotoxin BthTX-I [(p-BthTX-I)2, sequence: KKYRYHLKPFCKK, disulfide-linked dimer] against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Fluorescence quenching technique showed that the carboxyfluorescein labeled-peptide [CF-(p-BthTX-I)2] when incubated with E. coli displayed a superior penetration activity than when incubated with S. aureus. Cell death induced by the peptide (p-BthTX-I)2 showed a loss of membrane integrity in E. coli and S. aureus; however, the mechanisms of cell death were different, characterized by the presence of necrosis-like and apoptosis-like deaths, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy studies in E. coli and S. aureus showed morphological changes in the cells, with superficial deformities, appearance of wrinkles and bubbles, and formation of vesicles. Our results demonstrate that the mechanism of action of the peptide (p-BthTX-I)2 is different in Gram-negative (E. coli) and Gram-positive (S. aureus) bacteria. Knowledge of the mechanism of action of these peptides is important, since they are promising prototypes for new antimicrobial drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norival Alves Santos-Filho
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara, SP, Brazil; Campus Experimental de Registro, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara, SP, Brazil; Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
| | - Laura Marise de Freitas
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara, SP, Brazil; Instituto de Química, Depto de Bioquímica, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Julia Pinto Piccoli
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Carla Raquel Fontana
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Marisa Fusco-Almeida
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Maffud Cilli
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
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13
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Depau L, Brunetti J, Falciani C, Mandarini E, Riolo G, Zanchi M, Karousou E, Passi A, Pini A, Bracci L. Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans Can Promote Opposite Effects on Adhesion and Directional Migration of Different Cancer Cells. J Med Chem 2020; 63:15997-16011. [PMID: 33284606 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Heparan sulfate proteoglycans take part in crucial events of cancer progression, such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cell migration, and cell invasion. Through sulfated groups on their glycosaminoglycan chains, heparan sulfate proteoglycans interact with growth factors, morphogens, chemokines, and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. The amount and position of sulfated groups are highly variable, thus allowing differentiated ligand binding and activity of heparan sulfate proteoglycans. This variability and the lack of specific ligands have delayed comprehension of the molecular basis of heparan sulfate proteoglycan functions. Exploiting a tumor-targeting peptide tool that specifically recognizes sulfated glycosaminoglycans, we analyzed the role of membrane heparan sulfate proteoglycans in the adhesion and migration of cancer cell lines. Starting from the observation that the sulfated glycosaminoglycan-specific peptide exerts a different effect on adhesion, migration, and invasiveness of different cancer cell lines, we identified and characterized three cell migration phenotypes, where different syndecans are associated with alternative signaling for directional cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Depau
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Riolo
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Marta Zanchi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Evgenia Karousou
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Alberto Passi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
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14
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Brunetti J, Carnicelli V, Ponzi A, Di Giulio A, Lizzi AR, Cristiano L, Cresti L, Cappello G, Pollini S, Mosconi L, Rossolini GM, Bracci L, Falciani C, Pini A. Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of an Antimicrobial Peptide Synthesized with D Amino Acids. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9120840. [PMID: 33255172 PMCID: PMC7760307 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9120840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The peptide SET-M33 is a molecule synthesized in tetra-branched form which is being developed as a new antibiotic against Gram-negative bacteria. Its isomeric form with D amino acids instead of the L version (SET-M33D) is also able to kill Gram-positive bacteria because of its higher resistance to bacterial proteases (Falciani et al., PLoS ONE, 2012, 7, e46259). Here we report the strong in vitro activity of SET-M33D (MIC range 0.7-6.0 µM) against multiresistant pathogens of clinical interest, including Gram-positives Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, and Enterococcus faecalis, and various Gram-negative enterobacteriaceae. SET-M33D antibacterial activity is also confirmed in vivo against a MRSA strain of S. aureus with doses perfectly compatible with clinical use (5 and 2.5 mg/Kg). Moreover, SET-M33D strongly neutralized lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid (LTA), thus exerting a strong anti-inflammatory effect, reducing expression of cytokines, enzymes, and transcription factors (TNF-α, IL6, COX-2, KC, MIP-1, IP10, iNOS, NF-κB) involved in the onset and evolution of the inflammatory process. These results, along with in vitro and in vivo toxicity data and the low frequency of resistance selection reported here, make SET-M33D a strong candidate for the development of a new broad spectrum antibiotic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Veronica Carnicelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (A.D.G.); (A.R.L.)
| | - Alessia Ponzi
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (A.D.G.); (A.R.L.)
| | - Antonio Di Giulio
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (A.D.G.); (A.R.L.)
| | - Anna Rita Lizzi
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (A.P.); (A.D.G.); (A.R.L.)
| | - Loredana Cristiano
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | - Laura Cresti
- SetLance srl, Toscana Life Sciences, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Cappello
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Simona Pollini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.P.); (L.M.); (G.M.R.)
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Lara Mosconi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.P.); (L.M.); (G.M.R.)
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (S.P.); (L.M.); (G.M.R.)
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (L.B.); (C.F.); (A.P.)
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Santa Maria alle Scotte Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
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15
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Descalzi-Montoya D, Montel RA, Smith K, Dziopa E, Darwich A, Yang Z, Bitsaktsis C, Korngold R, Sabatino D. Synthetic Antibody Mimics Based on Cancer-Targeting Immunostimulatory Peptides. Chembiochem 2020; 22:1589-1596. [PMID: 32964656 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
De novo cancer-targeting immunostimulatory peptides have been designed and developed as synthetic antibody mimics. A series of bifunctional peptides incorporating NKp30-binding and NK-cell-activating domains were synthesized as linear dimers and then extended into branching trimeric peptides by the incorporation of GRP78-targeting and tumor-cell-binding sequences. A selected trimeric peptide from this small set of peptides displayed binding capabilities on GRP78+ HepG2 and A549 target cells. Cell binding diminished in the presence of an anti-GRP78 peptide blocker, thus suggesting GRP78-binding dependence. Similarly, the selected trimeric peptide was also found to exhibit NK cell binding in an NKp30-dependent manner, which translated into NK cell activation as indicated by cytokine secretion. In co-culture, fluorescence microscopy revealed that the target GFP-expressing A549 cells were visibly associated with the effector NK cells when pre-activated with lead trimeric peptide. Accordingly, A549 cells were found to be compromised, as evidenced by the loss of GFP signal and notable detection of early-/late-stage apoptosis. Investigation of the immunological markers related to toxicity revealed detectable secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, including IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-8. Furthermore, administration of peptide-activated NK cells into A549-tumor-bearing mice resulted in a consistent decrease in tumor growth when compared to the untreated control group. Taken together, the identification of a lead trimeric peptide capable of targeting and activating NK cells' immunotoxicity directly towards GRP78+ /B7H6- tumors provides a novel proof-of-concept for the development of cancer-targeting immunostimulatory peptide ligands that mimic antibody-targeting and -activating functions related to cancer immunotherapy applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dante Descalzi-Montoya
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack-Meridian Health, 340 Kingsland Street, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - Rachel A Montel
- Department of Biological Sciences and Chemistry and Biochemistry, Seton Hall University, 400 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ 07079, USA
| | - Keith Smith
- Department of Biological Sciences and Chemistry and Biochemistry, Seton Hall University, 400 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ 07079, USA
| | - Eugenia Dziopa
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack-Meridian Health, 340 Kingsland Street, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - Andrieh Darwich
- Department of Biological Sciences and Chemistry and Biochemistry, Seton Hall University, 400 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ 07079, USA
| | - Zheng Yang
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack-Meridian Health, 340 Kingsland Street, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - Constantine Bitsaktsis
- Department of Biological Sciences and Chemistry and Biochemistry, Seton Hall University, 400 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ 07079, USA
| | - Robert Korngold
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack-Meridian Health, 340 Kingsland Street, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - David Sabatino
- Department of Biological Sciences and Chemistry and Biochemistry, Seton Hall University, 400 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, NJ 07079, USA
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16
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Chicken breast-derived alcohol dehydrogenase-activating peptides in response to physicochemical changes and digestion simulation: The vital role of hydrophobicity. Food Res Int 2020; 136:109592. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2020.109592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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17
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Kim JH, Bae C, Kim MJ, Song IH, Ryu JH, Choi JH, Lee CJ, Nam JS, Kim JI. A novel nucleolin-binding peptide for Cancer Theranostics. Theranostics 2020; 10:9153-9171. [PMID: 32802184 PMCID: PMC7415810 DOI: 10.7150/thno.43502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer-specific ligands have been of great interest as pharmaceutical carriers due to the potential for site-specific delivery. In particular, cancer-specific peptides have many advantages over nanoparticles and antibodies, including high biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and the formation of nontoxic metabolites. The goal of the present study was the development of a novel cancer-specific ligand. Methods: Cancer-specific peptide ligands were screened using a one-bead-one-compound (OBOC) combinatorial method combined with a multiple-antigen-peptide (MAP) synthesis method. The specificity of the peptide ligands toward cancer cells was tested in vitro using a whole-cell binding assay, flow cytometry, and fluorescence confocal microscopy. The tissue distribution profile and therapeutic efficacy of a paclitaxel (PTX)-conjugated peptide ligand was assessed in vivo using xenograft mouse models. Results: We discovered that AGM-330 specifically bound to cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Treatment with PTX-conjugated AGM-330 dramatically inhibited cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo compared to treatment with PTX alone. The results of pull-down assay and LC-MS/MS analyses showed that membrane nucleolin (NCL) was the target protein of AGM-330. Although NCL is known as a nuclear protein, we observed that it was overexpressed on the membranes of cancer cells. In particular, membrane NCL neutralization inhibited growth in cancer cells in vitro. Conclusions: In summary, our findings indicated that NCL-targeting AGM-330 has great potential for use in cancer diagnosis and targeted drug delivery in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Hyun Kim
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Chanhyung Bae
- Molecular Physiology and Biophysics Section, Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Min-Jung Kim
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Hye Song
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Ha Ryu
- Pilot Plant, Anygen, Gwangju, Technopark, 333 Cheomdankwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61008, Republic of Korea
| | - Jang-Hyun Choi
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Choong-Jae Lee
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Seok Nam
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Il Kim
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
- Pilot Plant, Anygen, Gwangju, Technopark, 333 Cheomdankwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61008, Republic of Korea
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18
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Shrestha R, Petley EV, Farrand KJ, Jamieson SA, Jiao W, Teesdale-Spittle PH, Mace PD, Hermans IF, Rendle PM. The Synthesis and Anti-tumour Properties of Poly Ethoxy Ethyl Glycinamide (PEE-G) Scaffolds with Multiple PD-1 Peptides Attached. ChemMedChem 2020; 15:1128-1138. [PMID: 32400116 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Multivalent structures can provide multiple interactions at a target site and improve binding affinity. The multivalent presentation of the anti-tumour heptapeptide, SNTSESF, was investigated. This peptide's activity has been attributed to blockade of the PD-1 receptor-mediated signalling pathway. Two and four peptide units were conjugated to poly ethoxy ethyl glycinamide (PEE-G) scaffolds to prepare high-purity products. These conjugates and the peptide were examined in a mouse model implanted with GL261 tumours that indicated that presenting more than two copies of peptide SNTSESF on the dendritic scaffold does not increase anti-tumour activity per peptide. The fluorescent labelled peptide and most active multivalent peptide conjugate were therefore screened for their interaction with the human PD-L1 protein in a fluorescence polarisation assay. No indication of a specific SNTSESF peptide/PD-L1 interaction was observed. This finding was further supported by a molecular modelling binding study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinu Shrestha
- Victoria University of Wellington PO Box 33 436, Petone, 5046, New Zealand
| | - Emma V Petley
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research PO Box 7060, Wellington, 6242, New Zealand
| | - Kathryn J Farrand
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research PO Box 7060, Wellington, 6242, New Zealand
| | - Sam A Jamieson
- University of Otago PO Box 56, 710 Cumberland Street, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Wanting Jiao
- Victoria University of Wellington PO Box 33 436, Petone, 5046, New Zealand
| | | | - Peter D Mace
- University of Otago PO Box 56, 710 Cumberland Street, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Ian F Hermans
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research PO Box 7060, Wellington, 6242, New Zealand
| | - Phillip M Rendle
- Victoria University of Wellington PO Box 33 436, Petone, 5046, New Zealand
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19
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Mora L, González-Rogel D, Heres A, Toldrá F. Iberian dry-cured ham as a potential source of α-glucosidase-inhibitory peptides. J Funct Foods 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2020.103840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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20
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Isolation and identification of alcohol dehydrogenase stabilizing peptides from Alcalase digested chicken breast hydrolysates. J Funct Foods 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2019.103617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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21
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Zhang Z, Li Y, Wu H, Zhang X, Zhong D, Wu Y, Xu X, Yang J, Gu Z. Inhibitory Effects of Multivalent Polypeptides on the Proliferation and Metastasis of Breast Cancer Cells. ACS Med Chem Lett 2019; 10:1620-1627. [PMID: 31857837 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.9b00339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The susceptibility of peptide drugs to enzymatic degradation has limited their clinical applications. To overcome this limitation, we attached the peptide tyroserleutide (YSL) to a molecular scaffold in order to produce homogeneous monovalent, bivalent, tetravalent, and octavalent YSL dendrimers with highly ordered secondary structures. These multivalent YSL dendrimers were resistant to proteolysis and were better able to induce cytotoxicity in tumor cells in vitro as compared with monomeric peptides. These multivalent YSL dendrimers were also better able to constrain tumor cell metastasis. Compared with monovalent YSL, the multivalent YSL dendrimers displayed enhanced in vivo antitumor activity and suppressed tumor growth and metastasis in BALB/c mice bearing 4T1 tumors. These findings indicate that multivalence can significantly enhance ligand potency and represent a potential method for the development of peptide drugs with high therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuangzhuang Zhang
- Huaxi MR Research Center (NMRRC), Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, and National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yachao Li
- Huaxi MR Research Center (NMRRC), Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, and National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huayu Wu
- Huaxi MR Research Center (NMRRC), Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, and National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Zhong
- Huaxi MR Research Center (NMRRC), Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, and National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yahui Wu
- Huaxi MR Research Center (NMRRC), Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, and National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xianghui Xu
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhongwei Gu
- Huaxi MR Research Center (NMRRC), Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, and National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, People’s Republic of China
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, People’s Republic of China
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22
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NMR Study of the Secondary Structure and Biopharmaceutical Formulation of an Active Branched Antimicrobial Peptide. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24234290. [PMID: 31775296 PMCID: PMC6930567 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24234290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The synthetic antimicrobial peptide SET-M33 is being developed as a possible new antibacterial candidate for the treatment of multi-drug resistant bacteria. SET-M33 is a branched peptide featuring higher resistance and bioavailability than its linear analogues. SET-M33 shows antimicrobial activity against different species of multi-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, including clinically isolated strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumanii and Escherichia coli. The secondary structure of this 40 amino acid peptide was investigated by NMR to fully characterize the product in the framework of preclinical studies. The possible presence of helixes or β-sheets in the structure had to be explored to predict the behavior of the branched peptide in solution, with a view to designing a formulation for parenteral administration. Since the final formulation of SET-M33 will be strictly defined in terms of counter-ions and additives, we also report the studies on a new salt form, SET-M33 chloride, that retains its activity against Gram-negative bacteria and gains in solubility, with a possible improvement in the pharmacokinetic profile. The opportunity of using a chloride counter-ion is very convenient from a process development point of view and did not increase the toxicity of the antimicrobial drug.
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23
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Quercini L, Brunetti J, Riolo G, Bindi S, Scali S, Lampronti I, D'Aversa E, Wronski S, Pollini S, Gentile M, Lupetti P, Rossolini GM, Falciani C, Bracci L, Pini A. An antimicrobial molecule mitigates signs of sepsis in vivo and eradicates infections from lung tissue. FASEB J 2019; 34:192-207. [PMID: 31914681 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901896rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The peptide sequence KKIRVRLSA was synthesized in a dimeric structure (SET-M33DIM) and evaluated as a candidate drug for infections due to multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative pathogens. SET-M33DIM showed significant antibacterial activity against MDR strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Escherichia coli (Minimal Inhibitory Concentration [MICs], 1.5-11 µM), and less activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MICs, 11-22 µM). It showed very low toxicity in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo; in cytotoxicity tests, its EC50 was as much as 22 times better than that of SET-M33, a peptide with the same amino-acid sequence, but synthesized in tetra-branched form (638 vs 28 µM). In in vivo and ex vivo experiments, SET-M33DIM cleared P. aeruginosa infection, significantly reducing signs of sepsis in animals, and restoring cell viability in lung tissue after bacterial challenge. It also quelled inflammation triggered by LPS and live bacterial cells, inhibiting expression of inflammatory mediators in lung tissue, cultured macrophages, and bronchial cells from a cystic fibrosis patient.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giulia Riolo
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Bindi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisabetta D'Aversa
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sabine Wronski
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine (ITEM), Member of Fraunhofer international Consortium for Anti-Infective Research (iCAIR), Hannover, Germany
| | - Simona Pollini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Microbiology and Virology Unit, Florence Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Pietro Lupetti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Microbiology and Virology Unit, Florence Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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24
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Brunetti J, Riolo G, Depau L, Mandarini E, Bernini A, Karousou E, Passi A, Pini A, Bracci L, Falciani C. Unraveling Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycan Binding Motif for Cancer Cell Selectivity. Front Oncol 2019; 9:843. [PMID: 31620357 PMCID: PMC6759624 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Membrane heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) regulate cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation and are therefore considered key players in cancer cell development processes. Here, we used the NT4 peptide to investigate how the sulfation pattern of HSPG on cells drives binding specificity. NT4 is a branched peptide that binds the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains of HSPG. It has already been shown to inhibit growth factor-induced migration and invasiveness of cancer cells, implying antagonist binding of HSPG. The binding affinity of NT4 with recombinant HSPG showed that NT4 bound glypican-3 and -4 and, with lower affinity, syndecan-4. NT4 binding to the cancer cell membrane was inversely correlated with sulfatase expression. NT4 binding was higher in cell lines with lower expression of SULF-1 and SULF-2, which confirms the determinant role of sulfate groups for recognition by NT4. Using 8-mer and 9-mer heparan sulfate (HS) oligosaccharides with analog disaccharide composition and different sulfation sites, a possible recognition motif was identified that includes repeated 6-O-sulfates alternating with N- and/or 2-O-sulfates. Molecular modeling provided a fully descriptive picture of binding architecture, showing that sulfate groups on opposite sides of the oligosaccharide can interact with positive residues on two peptide sequences of the branched structure, thus favoring multivalent binding and explaining the high affinity and selectivity of NT4 for highly sulfated GAGs. NT4 and possibly newly selected branched peptides will be essential probes for reconstructing and unraveling binding sites for cancer-involved ligands on GAGs and will pave the way for new cancer detection and treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giulia Riolo
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Depau
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Bernini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Evgenia Karousou
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Alberto Passi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Falciani
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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25
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Rahat MA. Targeting Angiogenesis With Peptide Vaccines. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1924. [PMID: 31440262 PMCID: PMC6694838 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Most cancer peptide vaccinations tested so far are capable of eliciting a strong immune response, but demonstrate poor clinical benefits. Since peptide vaccination is safe and well-tolerated, and several indications suggest that it has clear potential advantages over other modalities of treatment, it is important to investigate the reasons for these clinical failures. In this review, the current state of the art in targeting angiogenic proteins via peptide vaccines is presented, and the underlying reasons for both the successes and the failures are analyzed. The review highlights a number of areas critical for future success, including choice of target antigens, types of peptides used, delivery methods and use of proper adjuvants, and suggests ways to achieve better clinical results in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal A Rahat
- Immunotherapy Laboratory, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel.,The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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26
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Szyrwiel Ł, Shimura M, Setner B, Szewczuk Z, Malec K, Malinka W, Brasun J, Pap JS. SOD-Like Activity of Copper(II) Containing Metallopeptides Branched By 2,3-Diaminopropionic Acid: What the N-Termini Elevate, the C-Terminus Ruins. Int J Pept Res Ther 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-018-9717-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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27
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Vargas-Casanova Y, Rodríguez-Mayor AV, Cardenas KJ, Leal-Castro AL, Muñoz-Molina LC, Fierro-Medina R, Rivera-Monroy ZJ, García-Castañeda JE. Synergistic bactericide and antibiotic effects of dimeric, tetrameric, or palindromic peptides containing the RWQWR motif against Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains. RSC Adv 2019; 9:7239-7245. [PMID: 35519960 PMCID: PMC9061098 DOI: 10.1039/c9ra00708c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Dimeric and tetrameric peptides derived from LfcinB (20-25): RRWQWR, LfcinB (20-30): RRWQWRMKKLG, LfcinB (17-31): FKARRWQWRMKKLGA, or the palindromic sequence LfcinB (21-25)Pal: RWQWRWQWR were obtained by means of the SPPS-Fmoc/tBu methodology. The antibacterial activity of these molecules was evaluated against Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922 and ATCC 11775), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853). The dimer LfcinB (20-25)2: (RRWQWR)2K-Ahx, the tetramer LfcinB (20-25)4: (RRWQWR)4K2-Ahx2-C2, and the palindromic sequence LfcinB (21-25)Pal exhibited the highest antibacterial activity against the tested bacterial strains. In all cases, the antibacterial activity was dependent on peptide concentration. The polyvalent molecules LfcinB (20-25)2 and LfcinB (20-25)4 exhibited bacteriostatic and bactericidal activity against E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus strains; additionally, this dimer and this tetramer combined with ciprofloxacin exhibited a synergistic antibacterial effect against E. coli ATCC 25922 and P. aeruginosa, respectively. Furthermore, the peptides LfcinB (20-30)4, LfcinB (20-25)4, and LfcinB (21-25)Pal combined with vancomycin exhibited a synergistic antibacterial effect against S. aureus and E. faecalis, respectively. This study showed that polyvalent peptides derived from LfcinB exhibit significant antibacterial activity, suggesting that these peptides could have a therapeutic application. Furthermore, our results suggest that polyvalent peptide synthesis could be considered as an innovative and viable strategy for obtaining promising antimicrobial molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yerly Vargas-Casanova
- Biotechnology Institute, Universidad Nacional de Colombia Carrera 45 No 26-85 Bogotá 11321 Colombia
| | | | - Karen Johanna Cardenas
- Pharmacy Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia Carrera 45 No 26-85, Building 450, Office 213 Bogotá 11321 Colombia
| | - Aura Lucía Leal-Castro
- Medicine Faculty, Universidad Nacional de Colombia Carrera 45 No 26-85, Building 450, Office 213 Bogotá 11321 Colombia
| | | | - Ricardo Fierro-Medina
- Chemistry Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia Carrera 45 No 26-85, Building 450, Office 213 Bogotá 11321 Colombia
| | - Zuly Jenny Rivera-Monroy
- Chemistry Department, Universidad Nacional de Colombia Carrera 45 No 26-85, Building 450, Office 213 Bogotá 11321 Colombia
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Thi Nguyen NT, Yun S, Lim DW, Lee EK. Shielding effect of a PEG molecule of a mono-PEGylated peptide varies with PEG chain length. Prep Biochem Biotechnol 2018; 48:522-527. [DOI: 10.1080/10826068.2018.1466157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ngoc-Thanh Thi Nguyen
- Department of Bionanotechnology, Graduate School, Hanyang University ERICA, Ansan, Korea
| | - Soi Yun
- Department of Bionanotechnology, Graduate School, Hanyang University ERICA, Ansan, Korea
| | - Dong Woo Lim
- Department of Bionanotechnology, Graduate School, Hanyang University ERICA, Ansan, Korea
| | - E. K. Lee
- Department of Bionanotechnology, Graduate School, Hanyang University ERICA, Ansan, Korea
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29
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Gallego M, Mora L, Reig M, Toldrá F. Stability of the potent antioxidant peptide SNAAC identified from Spanish dry-cured ham. Food Res Int 2018; 105:873-879. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2017.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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30
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Manzo G, Serra I, Pira A, Pintus M, Ceccarelli M, Casu M, Rinaldi AC, Scorciapino MA. The singular behavior of a β-type semi-synthetic two branched polypeptide: three-dimensional structure and mode of action. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2018; 18:30998-31011. [PMID: 27805179 DOI: 10.1039/c6cp05464a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Dendrimeric peptides make a versatile group of bioactive peptidomimetics and a potential new class of antimicrobial agents to tackle the pressing threat of multi-drug resistant pathogens. These are branched supramolecular assemblies where multiple copies of the bioactive unit are linked to a central core. Beyond their antimicrobial activity, dendrimeric peptides could also be designed to functionalize the surface of nanoparticles or materials for other medical uses. Despite these properties, however, little is known about the structure-function relationship of such compounds, which is key to unveil the fundamental physico-chemical parameters and design analogues with desired attributes. To close this gap, we focused on a semi-synthetic, two-branched peptide, SB056, endowed with remarkable activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and limited cytotoxicity. SB056 can be considered the smallest prototypical dendrimeric peptide, with the core restricted to a single lysine residue and only two copies of the same highly cationic 10-mer polypeptide; an octanamide tail is present at the C-terminus. Combining NMR and Molecular Dynamics simulations, we have determined the 3D structure of two analogues. Fluorescence spectroscopy was applied to investigate the water-bilayer partition in the presence of vesicles of variable charge. Vesicle leakage assays were also performed and the experimental data were analyzed by applying an iterative Monte Carlo scheme to estimate the minimum number of bound peptides needed to achieve the release. We unveiled a singular beta hairpin-type structure determined by the peptide chains only, with the octanamide tail available for further functionalization to add new potential properties without affecting the structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Manzo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences - Biochemistry Unit, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Serra
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pira
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Manuela Pintus
- Department of Biomedical Sciences - Biochemistry Unit, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy.
| | - Matteo Ceccarelli
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Mariano Casu
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Andrea C Rinaldi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences - Biochemistry Unit, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy.
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31
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Calo' G, Rizzi A, Ruzza C, Ferrari F, Pacifico S, Gavioli EC, Salvadori S, Guerrini R. Peptide welding technology - A simple strategy for generating innovative ligands for G protein coupled receptors. Peptides 2018; 99:195-204. [PMID: 29031796 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2017.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2017] [Revised: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Based on their high selectivity of action and low toxicity, naturally occurring peptides have great potential in terms of drug development. However, the pharmacokinetic properties of peptides, in particular their half life, are poor. Among different strategies developed for reducing susceptibility to peptidases, and thus increasing the duration of action of peptides, the generation of branched peptides has been described. However, the synthesis and purification of branched peptides are extremely complicated thus limiting their druggability. Here we present a novel and facile synthesis of tetrabranched peptides acting as GPCR ligands and their in vitro and vivo pharmacological characterization. Tetrabranched derivatives of nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ), N/OFQ related peptides, opioid peptides, tachykinins, and neuropeptide S were generated with the strategy named peptide welding technology (PWT) and characterized by high yield and purity of the desired final product. In general, PWT derivatives displayed a pharmacological profile similar to that of the natural sequence in terms of affinity, pharmacological activity, potency, and selectivity of action in vitro. More importantly, in vivo studies demonstrated that PWT peptides are characterized by increased potency associated with long lasting duration of action. In conclusion, PWT derivatives of biologically active peptides can be viewed as innovative pharmacological tools for investigating those conditions and states in which selective and prolonged receptor stimulation promotes beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girolamo Calo'
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Anna Rizzi
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Federica Ferrari
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Salvatore Pacifico
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elaine C Gavioli
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Severo Salvadori
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Italy
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32
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Antibacterial Activity of the Non-Cytotoxic Peptide (p-BthTX-I)₂ and Its Serum Degradation Product against Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria. Molecules 2017; 22:molecules22111898. [PMID: 29113051 PMCID: PMC6150245 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22111898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides can be used systemically, however, their susceptibility to proteases is a major obstacle in peptide-based therapeutic development. In the present study, the serum stability of p-BthTX-I (KKYRYHLKPFCKK) and (p-BthTX-I)₂, a p-BthTX-I disulfide-linked dimer, were analyzed by mass spectrometry and analytical high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Antimicrobial activities were assessed by determining their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) using cation-adjusted Mueller-Hinton broth. Furthermore, biofilm eradication and time-kill kinetics were performed. Our results showed that p-BthTX-I and (p-BthTX-I)₂ were completely degraded after 25 min. Mass spectrometry showed that the primary degradation product was a peptide that had lost four lysine residues on its C-terminus region (des-Lys12/Lys13-(p-BthTX-I)₂), which was stable after 24 h of incubation. The antibacterial activities of the peptides p-BthTX-I, (p-BthTX-I)₂, and des-Lys12/Lys13-(p-BthTX-I)₂ were evaluated against a variety of bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains. Des-Lys12/Lys13-(p-BthTX-I)₂ and (p-BthTX-I)₂ degraded Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms. Additionally, both the peptides exhibited bactericidal activities against planktonic S. epidermidis in time-kill assays. The emergence of bacterial resistance to a variety of antibiotics used in clinics is the ultimate challenge for microbial infection control. Therefore, our results demonstrated that both peptides analyzed and the product of proteolysis obtained from (p-BthTX-I)₂ are promising prototypes as novel drugs to treat multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.
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Deng X, Li X, Chen W, Zhao T, Huang W, Qian H. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of peptide dendrimers with wound healing promoting activity. Med Chem Res 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s00044-016-1777-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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34
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Simanovich E, Brod V, Rahat MM, Drazdov E, Walter M, Shakya J, Rahat MA. Inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis by EMMPRIN multiple antigenic peptide (MAP) vaccination is mediated by immune modulation. Oncoimmunology 2016; 6:e1261778. [PMID: 28197388 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2016.1261778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 11/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Previously, we have identified a new epitope in EMMPRIN, a multifunctional protein that mediates tumor cell-macrophage interactions and induces both MMP-9 and VEGF. Here, we synthesized this epitope as an octa-branched multiple antigenic peptide (MAP) to vaccinate mice implanted with subcutaneous syngeneic colon (CT26), prostate (TRAMP-C2) or renal (RENCA) cell line carcinomas. Vaccination inhibited, and sometimes regressed, tumor growth in a dose-dependent manner, reaching 94%, 71% and 72% inhibition, respectively, at a 50 μg dose (p < 0.01). Mice with regressed tumors demonstrated immune memory, preventing tumor recurrence upon re-implantation (p < 0.001). When tumor cells were administered through the tail vein to generate lung metastases, vaccination reduced the number of metastatic foci (by 15- and 23-folds, p < 0.001), and increased the median survival time by 25% and 53% in RENCA and CT26 metastases, respectively (p < 0.01) relative to scrambled-MAP controls. No significant adverse responses were observed in all experiments. We show that the tumor microenvironment was immune modulated, as vaccination induced production of EMMPRIN-specific antibodies, increased CD8+ T cells infiltration and cytotoxicity, alleviated immune suppression by decreasing TGFβ concentrations, reduced angiogenesis and cell proliferation, and enhanced apoptosis. Thus, our successful active peptide vaccination strategy differs from previous, unsuccessful attempts, both in the selected target (the EMMPRIN epitope) and in the use of a modified, MAP configuration, and demonstrates that this may be an efficient approach for the treatment and prevention of some types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina Simanovich
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel; The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Vera Brod
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center , Haifa, Israel
| | - Maya M Rahat
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center , Haifa, Israel
| | - Ella Drazdov
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center , Haifa, Israel
| | - Miriam Walter
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center , Haifa, Israel
| | - Jivan Shakya
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center , Haifa, Israel
| | - Michal A Rahat
- Immunotherapy Lab, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel; The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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35
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Brunetti J, Roscia G, Lampronti I, Gambari R, Quercini L, Falciani C, Bracci L, Pini A. Immunomodulatory and Anti-inflammatory Activity in Vitro and in Vivo of a Novel Antimicrobial Candidate. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:25742-25748. [PMID: 27758868 PMCID: PMC5207269 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.750257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The synthetic antimicrobial peptide SET-M33 has strong activity against bacterial infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. It is currently in preclinical development as a new drug to treat lung infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. Here we report its strong anti-inflammatory activity in terms of reduced expression of a number of cytokines, enzymes, and signal transduction factors involved in inflammation triggered by LPS from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli. Sixteen cytokines and other major agents involved in inflammation were analyzed in macrophages and bronchial cells after stimulation with LPS and incubation with SET-M33. The bronchial cells were obtained from a cystic fibrosis patient. A number of these proteins showed up to 100% reduction in expression as measured by RT-PCR, Western blotting, or Luminex technology. LPS neutralization was also demonstrated in vivo by challenging bronchoalveolar lavage of SET-M33-treated mice with LPS, which led to a sharp reduction in TNF-α with respect to non-SET-M33-treated animals. We also describe a strong activity of SET-M33 in stimulating cell migration of keratinocytes in wound healing experiments in vitro, demonstrating a powerful immunomodulatory action generally characteristic of molecules taking part in innate immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Brunetti
- From the Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giulia Roscia
- From the Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lampronti
- the Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy, and
| | - Roberto Gambari
- the Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 74, 44121 Ferrara, Italy, and
| | - Leila Quercini
- From the Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | | | - Luisa Bracci
- From the Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- From the Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy,
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36
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Boll E, Drobecq H, Lissy E, Cantrelle FX, Melnyk O. Kinetically Controlled Chemoselective Cyclization Simplifies the Access to Cyclic and Branched Peptides. Org Lett 2016; 18:3842-5. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.6b01847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuelle Boll
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Institut Pasteur de Lille, UMR 8161, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Hervé Drobecq
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Institut Pasteur de Lille, UMR 8161, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Elizabeth Lissy
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Institut Pasteur de Lille, UMR 8161, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - François-Xavier Cantrelle
- Université de Lille, CNRS, UMR 8576, UGSF, Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Oleg Melnyk
- Université de Lille, CNRS, Institut Pasteur de Lille, UMR 8161, F-59000 Lille, France
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37
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Brunetti J, Falciani C, Roscia G, Pollini S, Bindi S, Scali S, Arrieta UC, Gómez-Vallejo V, Quercini L, Ibba E, Prato M, Rossolini GM, Llop J, Bracci L, Pini A. In vitro and in vivo efficacy, toxicity, bio-distribution and resistance selection of a novel antibacterial drug candidate. Sci Rep 2016; 6:26077. [PMID: 27169671 PMCID: PMC4864329 DOI: 10.1038/srep26077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A synthetic antimicrobial peptide was identified as a possible candidate for the development of a new antibacterial drug. The peptide, SET-M33L, showed a MIC90 below 1.5 μM and 3 μM for Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae, respectively. In in vivo models of P. aeruginosa infections, the peptide and its pegylated form (SET-M33L-PEG) enabled a survival percentage of 60–80% in sepsis and lung infections when injected twice i.v. at 5 mg/Kg, and completely healed skin infections when administered topically. Plasma clearance showed different kinetics for SET-M33L and SET-M33L-PEG, the latter having greater persistence two hours after injection. Bio-distribution in organs did not show significant differences in uptake of the two peptides. Unlike colistin, SET-M33L did not select resistant mutants in bacterial cultures and also proved non genotoxic and to have much lower in vivo toxicity than antimicrobial peptides already used in clinical practice. The characterizations reported here are part of a preclinical development plan that should bring the molecule to clinical trial in the next few years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jlenia Brunetti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Roscia
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Simona Pollini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Bindi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, viale Bracci, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Scali
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Unai Cossio Arrieta
- Radiochemistry and Nuclear Imaging Group CIC biomaGUNE, San Sebastián, Spain
| | | | - Leila Quercini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Elisa Ibba
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Prato
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Italy.,Microbiology and Virology Unit, Florence Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.,Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation I.R.C.C.S., Florence, Italy
| | - Jordi Llop
- Radiochemistry and Nuclear Imaging Group CIC biomaGUNE, San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Luisa Bracci
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, viale Bracci, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.,Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, viale Bracci, Siena, Italy
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38
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Saludes JP, Gregar TQ, Monreal IA, Cook BM, Danan-Leon LM, Gervay-Hague J. Solution phase conformation and proteolytic stability of amide-linked neuraminic acid analogues. Biopolymers 2016; 99:686-96. [PMID: 23765412 DOI: 10.1002/bip.22315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2013] [Accepted: 05/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Amide-linked homopolymers of sialic acid offer the advantages of stable secondary structure and increased bioavailability making them useful constructs for pharmaceutical design and drug delivery. Defining the structural characteristics that give rise to secondary structure in aqueous solution is challenging in homopolymeric material due to spectral overlap in NMR spectra. Having previously developed computational tools for heteroologomers with resolved spectra, we now report that application of these methods in combination with circular dichroism, NH/ND NMR exchange rates and nOe data has enabled the structural determination of a neutral, δ-amide-linked homopolymer of a sialic acid analogue called Neu2en. The results show that the inherent planarity of the pyranose ring in Neu2en brought about by the α,δ-conjugated amide bond serves as the primary driving force of the overall conformation of the homooligomer. This peptide surrogate has an excellent bioavailability profile, with half-life of ∼12 h in human blood serum, which offers a viable peptide scaffold that is resistant to proteolytic degradation. Furthermore, a proof-of-principle study illustrates that Neu2en oligomers are functionalizable with small molecule ligands using 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonel P Saludes
- Department of Chemistry, , University of California Davis, One Shields Ave., Davis, CA, 95616; Department of Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164
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39
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Cameron A, De Zoysa GH, Sarojini V. Antimicrobial peptides against Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae and Erwinia amylovora: Chemical synthesis, secondary structure, efficacy, and mechanistic investigations. Biopolymers 2016; 102:88-96. [PMID: 24122768 DOI: 10.1002/bip.22423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Revised: 09/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
We report on structurally modified dodecapeptide amides (KYKLFKKILKFL-NH2) and two analogs of a hexapeptide amide (WRWYCR-NH2) with antibacterial activity against the Gram negative pathogens Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa) and Erwinia amylovora (Ea). Dodecapeptide minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranged from 3.2 to 15.4 µM, with the unmodified peptide being the most potent against both pathogens. The unmodified dodecapeptide also had 32-58% α-helicity in membrane mimetic environments (50% v/v trifluoroethanol and 30 mM SDS micelles). Structural modifications which included branching, acylation, and conjugation with 5-nitro-2-furaldehyde (NFA) proved detrimental to both antimicrobial activity and α-helicity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed distinct morphological changes to bacterial cells treated with the different peptides, leading to blistering of the membrane and cell lysis. MICs of the hexapeptide amide were 3.9-7.7 µM against both pathogens. The hexapeptide acid did not show anti-bacterial activity against either pathogen. However, the NFA conjugated hexapeptide acid was more active than the parent peptide or NFA alone with MICs of 1.6-3.2 µM against the pathogens. SEM analysis revealed shriveling and collapse of bacterial cells treated with the hexapeptide, whereas shortening and compactness on exposure to streptomycin. A colorimetric assay demonstrated that the dodecapeptides were likely to act by targeting the bacterial membrane, whereas the hexapeptides, streptomycin, and NFA were not, thereby supporting the morphological changes observed during SEM. To the best of our knowledge, this appears to be the first report of antimicrobial peptide activity against Psa, a pathogen that is currently devastating the kiwifruit industry internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Cameron
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag, 92019, Auckland, New Zealand
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40
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Fields C, Li P, O'Mahony JJ, Lee GU. Advances in affinity ligand-functionalized nanomaterials for biomagnetic separation. Biotechnol Bioeng 2015; 113:11-25. [DOI: 10.1002/bit.25665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Conor Fields
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology; University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4; Ireland
| | - Peng Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology; University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4; Ireland
| | - James J. O'Mahony
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology; University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4; Ireland
| | - Gil U. Lee
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology; University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4; Ireland
- Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Sciences; University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4; Ireland
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41
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Santos-Filho NA, Lorenzon EN, Ramos MAS, Santos CT, Piccoli JP, Bauab TM, Fusco-Almeida AM, Cilli EM. Synthesis and characterization of an antibacterial and non-toxic dimeric peptide derived from the C-terminal region of Bothropstoxin-I. Toxicon 2015; 103:160-8. [PMID: 26160494 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2015.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Revised: 06/28/2015] [Accepted: 07/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Infectious diseases are among the leading global causes of death, increasing the search for novel antibacterial agents. Among these, biologically active peptides are an excellent research tool. Using solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS), this work aimed to synthesize the peptide derived from the C-terminal region of Bothropstoxin-I (BthTX-I) (p-BthTX-I, sequence: KKYRYHLKPFCKK), and its disulfide-linked dimeric form, obtained via air oxidation (p-BthTX-I)2. Two other peptides were synthesized to evaluate the dimerization effect on antimicrobial activity. In both sequences, the cysteine (Cys) residue was replaced by the serine (Ser) residue, differing, however, in their C-terminus position. The antimicrobial activity of the peptides against gram-negative (Escherichia (E.) coli) and gram-positive (Staphylococcus (S.) aureus) bacteria and yeast (Candida (C.) albicans) was evaluated. Interestingly, only peptides containing the Cys residue showed antimicrobial activity, suggesting the importance of Cys residue and its dimerization for the observed activity. Apparently, p-BthTX-I and (p-BthTX-I)2 did not promote lysis or form pores and were not able to interact with membranes. Furthermore, they neither showed antifungal activity against C. albicans nor toxicity against erythrocytes, epithelial cells, or macrophages, indicating a potential specificity against prokaryotic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Esteban N Lorenzon
- Instituto de Química, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Matheus A S Ramos
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Claudia T Santos
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Julia P Piccoli
- Instituto de Química, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Tais M Bauab
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana M Fusco-Almeida
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo M Cilli
- Instituto de Química, UNESP - Univ. Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
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42
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Ruzza C, Rizzi A, Malfacini D, Cerlesi MC, Ferrari F, Marzola E, Ambrosio C, Gro C, Severo S, Costa T, Calo G, Guerrini R. Pharmacological characterization of tachykinin tetrabranched derivatives. Br J Pharmacol 2015; 171:4125-37. [PMID: 24758475 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Revised: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Peptide welding technology (PWT) is a novel chemical strategy that allows the synthesis of multibranched peptides with high yield, purity and reproducibility. Using this technique, we have synthesized and pharmacologically characterized the tetrabranched derivatives of the tachykinins, substance P (SP), neurokinin A (NKA) and B (NKB). EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The following in vitro assays were used: calcium mobilization in cells expressing human recombinant NK receptors, BRET studies of G-protein - NK1 receptor interaction, guinea pig ileum and rat urinary bladder bioassays. Nociceptive behavioural response experiments were performed in mice following intrathecal injection of PWT2-SP. KEY RESULTS In calcium mobilization studies, PWT tachykinin derivatives behaved as full agonists at NK receptors with a selectivity profile similar to that of the natural peptides. NK receptor antagonists display similar potency values when tested against PWT2 derivatives and natural peptides. In BRET and bioassay experiments PWT2-SP mimicked the effects of SP with similar potency, maximal effects and sensitivity to aprepitant. After intrathecal administration in mice, PWT2-SP mimicked the nociceptive effects of SP, but with higher potency and a longer-lasting action. Aprepitant counteracted the effects of PWT2-SP in vivo. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The present study has shown that the PWT technology can be successfully applied to the peptide sequence of tachykinins to generate tetrabranched derivatives characterized with a pharmacological profile similar to the native peptides. In vivo, PWT2-SP displayed higher potency and a marked prolongation of action, compared with SP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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43
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Rizzi A, Malfacini D, Cerlesi MC, Ruzza C, Marzola E, Bird MF, Rowbotham DJ, Salvadori S, Guerrini R, Lambert DG, Calo G. In vitro and in vivo pharmacological characterization of nociceptin/orphanin FQ tetrabranched derivatives. Br J Pharmacol 2015; 171:4138-53. [PMID: 24903280 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2013] [Revised: 05/06/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE An innovative chemical approach, named peptide welding technology (PWT), allows the synthesis of multibranched peptides with extraordinary high yield, purity and reproducibility. With this approach, three different tetrabranched derivatives of nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) have been synthesized and named PWT1-N/OFQ, PWT2-N/OFQ and PWT3-N/OFQ. In the present study we investigated the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological profile of PWT N/OFQ derivatives and compared their actions with those of the naturally occurring peptide. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The following in vitro assays were used: receptor and [(35)S]-GTPγS binding, calcium mobilization in cells expressing the human N/OFQ peptide (NOP) receptor, or classical opioid receptors and chimeric G proteins, electrically stimulated mouse vas deferens bioassay. In vivo experiments were performed; locomotor activity was measured in normal mice and in animals with the NOP receptor gene knocked out [NOP(-/-)]. KEY RESULTS In vitro PWT derivatives of N/OFQ behaved as high affinity potent and rather selective full agonists at human recombinant and animal native NOP receptors. In vivo PWT derivatives mimicked the inhibitory effects exerted by the natural peptide on locomotor activity showing 40-fold higher potency and extremely longer lasting action. The effects of PWT2-N/OFQ were no longer evident in NOP(-/-) mice. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The results showed that the PWT can be successfully applied to the peptide sequence of N/OFQ to generate tetrabranched derivatives characterized by a pharmacological profile similar to the native peptide and associated with a higher potency and marked prolongation of action in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rizzi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience
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44
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45
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Szyrwiel Ł, Pap JS, Szczukowski Ł, Kerner Z, Brasuń J, Setner B, Szewczuk Z, Malinka W. Branched peptide with three histidines for the promotion of CuII binding in a wide pH range – complementary potentiometric, spectroscopic and electrochemical studies. RSC Adv 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c5ra08602g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-arm, His-rich branched peptide stabilizes 1 : 1 CuII complex forms by switching between N- and C-terminal His coordination upon changes in pH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - József S. Pap
- MTA Centre for Energy Research
- Surface Chemistry and Catalysis Department
- H-1525 Budapest
- Hungary
| | - Łukasz Szczukowski
- Department of Chemistry of Drugs
- Wrocław Medical University
- 50-552 Wrocław
- Poland
| | - Zsolt Kerner
- MTA Centre for Energy Research
- Surface Chemistry and Catalysis Department
- H-1525 Budapest
- Hungary
| | - Justyna Brasuń
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry
- Wroclaw Medical University
- 50-552 Wroclaw
- Poland
| | - Bartosz Setner
- Faculty of Chemistry
- University of Wrocław
- 50-383 Wrocław
- Poland
| | | | - Wiesław Malinka
- Department of Chemistry of Drugs
- Wrocław Medical University
- 50-552 Wrocław
- Poland
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46
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Blum AP, Kammeyer JK, Yin J, Crystal DT, Rush AM, Gilson MK, Gianneschi NC. Peptides displayed as high density brush polymers resist proteolysis and retain bioactivity. J Am Chem Soc 2014; 136:15422-37. [PMID: 25314576 PMCID: PMC4227725 DOI: 10.1021/ja5088216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
We describe a strategy for rendering peptides resistant to proteolysis by formulating them as high-density brush polymers. The utility of this approach is demonstrated by polymerizing well-established cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) and showing that the resulting polymers are not only resistant to proteolysis but also maintain their ability to enter cells. The scope of this design concept is explored by studying the proteolytic resistance of brush polymers composed of peptides that are substrates for either thrombin or a metalloprotease. Finally, we demonstrate that the proteolytic susceptibility of peptide brush polymers can be tuned by adjusting the density of the polymer brush and offer in silico models to rationalize this finding. We contend that this strategy offers a plausible method of preparing peptides for in vivo use, where rapid digestion by proteases has traditionally restricted their utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela P Blum
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, ‡Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego , La Jolla, California 92093, United States
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47
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Guerrini R, Marzola E, Trapella C, Pela' M, Molinari S, Cerlesi MC, Malfacini D, Rizzi A, Salvadori S, Calo' G. A novel and facile synthesis of tetra branched derivatives of nociceptin/orphanin FQ. Bioorg Med Chem 2014; 22:3703-12. [PMID: 24878361 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2014.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Revised: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 05/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Branched peptides have been found to be useful in several research fields however their synthesis and purification is complicated. Here we present a novel and facile synthesis of tetra branched derivatives of nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ). Three N/OFQ tetra branched derivatives were prepared using novel cores (PWT1, PWT2 and PWT3) containing a maleimido moiety. [Cys(18)]N/OFQ-NH2 was linked to the cores via thiol-Michael reaction characterized by high yield and purity of the desired final product. In the electrically stimulated mouse vas deferens PWT-N/OFQ derivatives mimicked the inhibitory action of the natural sequence showing similar maximal effects and 3 fold higher potencies. The NOP selective antagonist SB-612111 antagonized the effects of N/OFQ and PWT derivatives with similar pKB values (8.02-8.48). In vivo after supraspinal administration PWT2-N/OFQ stimulated food intake in mice mimicking the action of N/OFQ. Compared to the natural peptide PWT2-N/OFQ was 40 fold more potent and elicited larger effects. These findings suggest that the PWT chemical strategy can be successfully applied to biologically active peptides to generate, with unprecedented high purity and yield, tetra branched derivatives displaying an in vitro pharmacological profile similar to that of the natural sequence associated, in vivo, to increased potency and effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Laboratorio per le tecnologie delle terapie avanzate (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Erika Marzola
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Laboratorio per le tecnologie delle terapie avanzate (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Claudio Trapella
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Michela Pela'
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefano Molinari
- Department of Medical Science, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Camilla Cerlesi
- Department of Medical Science, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Davide Malfacini
- Department of Medical Science, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Anna Rizzi
- Department of Medical Science, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Severo Salvadori
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Laboratorio per le tecnologie delle terapie avanzate (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Girolamo Calo'
- Department of Medical Science, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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48
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Szyrwiel Ł, Szczukowski Ł, Pap JS, Setner B, Szewczuk Z, Malinka W. The Cu2+ Binding Properties of Branched Peptides Based on l-2,3-Diaminopropionic Acid. Inorg Chem 2014; 53:7951-9. [DOI: 10.1021/ic5007428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Szyrwiel
- CNRS/UPPA, LCABIE, UMR5254, Hélioparc,
2, av. Pr. Angot, F-64053 Pau, France
| | - Łukasz Szczukowski
- Department of Chemistry
of Drugs, Wrocław Medical University, ul. Borowska 211, 50-552 Wrocław, Poland
| | - József S. Pap
- Surface Chemistry and Catalysis Department, Centre for
Energy Research, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, 1525 Budapest 114, P.O. Box 49, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Bartosz Setner
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Wrocław, ul. F. Joliot-Curie 14, 50−383 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Szewczuk
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Wrocław, ul. F. Joliot-Curie 14, 50−383 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Wiesław Malinka
- Department of Chemistry
of Drugs, Wrocław Medical University, ul. Borowska 211, 50-552 Wrocław, Poland
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49
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Kier BL, Andersen NH. Captides: rigid junctions between beta sheets and small molecules. J Pept Sci 2014; 20:704-15. [PMID: 24909552 DOI: 10.1002/psc.2657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2014] [Revised: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
An extensive series of covalently linked small molecule-peptide adducts based on a terminally capped-beta hairpin motif is reported. The constructs can be prepared by standard solid-phase Fmoc chemistry with one to four peptide chains linked to small molecule hubs bearing carboxylic acid moieties. The key feature of interest is the precise, buried environment of the small molecule, and its rigid orientation relative to one or more short but fully structured peptide chain(s). Most of this study employs a minimalist nine residue 'captide', a capped β-turn, but we illustrate general applicability to peptides which can terminate in a beta strand. The non-peptide portion of these adducts can include nearly any molecule bearing one or more carboxylic acid groups. Fold-dependent rigidity sets this strategy apart from the currently available bioconjugation methods, which typically engender significant flexibility between peptide and tag. Applications to catalyst enhancement, drug design, higher-order assembly, and FRET calibration rulers are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon L Kier
- University of Washington - Chemistry, Bagley Hall Room 205 Box 351700, Seattle, WA, 98195-1700, USA
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50
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A novel phage-library-selected peptide inhibits human TNF-α binding to its receptors. Molecules 2014; 19:7255-68. [PMID: 24896264 PMCID: PMC6271742 DOI: 10.3390/molecules19067255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2014] [Revised: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the identification of a new human tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) specific peptide selected by competitive panning of a phage library. Competitive elution of phages was obtained using the monoclonal antibody adalimumab, which neutralizes pro-inflammatory processes caused by over-production of TNF-α in vivo, and is used to treat severe symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. The selected peptide was synthesized in monomeric and branched form and analyzed for binding to TNF-α and competition with adalimumab and TNF-α receptors. Results of competition with TNF-α receptors in surface plasmon resonance and melanoma cells expressing both TNF receptors make the peptide a candidate compound for the development of a novel anti-TNF-α drug.
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