1
|
Shi H, Cheng Z. MC1R and melanin-based molecular probes for theranostic of melanoma and beyond. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:3034-3044. [PMID: 36008707 PMCID: PMC9712491 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00970-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is accounting for most of skin cancer-associated mortality. The incidence of melanoma increased every year worldwide especially in western countries. Treatment efficiency is highly related to the stage of melanoma. Therefore, accurate staging and restaging play a pivotal role in the management of melanoma patients. Though 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron-emission tomography (PET) has been widely used in imaging of tumor metastases, novel radioactive probes for specific targeted imaging of both primary and metastasized melanoma are still desired. Melanocortin receptor 1 (MC1R) and melanin are two promising biomarkers specifically for melanoma, and numerous research groups including us have been actively developing a plethora of radioactive probes based on targeting of MC1R or melanin for over two decades. In this review, some of the MC1R-targeted tracers and melanin-associated molecular imaging probes developed in our research and others have been briefly summarized, and it provides a quick glance of melanoma-targeted probe design and may contribute to further developing novel molecular probes for cancer theranostics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Molecular Imaging Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhen Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Molecular Imaging Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, 264117, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Grieco P. When Macrocyclic Peptides Meet the Crystal Structure of a Melanocortin Receptor. J Med Chem 2021; 64:354-356. [PMID: 33393773 PMCID: PMC7884008 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c02087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This work reveals
some key factors for the design of a novel generation
of selective melanocortin ligands at the MC4 receptor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, CIRPEB, Centro Interuniversitario di Ricerca sui Peptidi Bioattivi, Via D. Montesano, 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Van der Poorten O, Fehér K, Buysse K, Feytens D, Zoi I, Schwartz SD, Martins JC, Tourwé D, Cai M, Hruby VJ, Ballet S. Azepinone-Containing Tetrapeptide Analogues of Melanotropin Lead to Selective hMC4R Agonists and hMC5R Antagonist. ACS Med Chem Lett 2015; 6:192-7. [PMID: 25699148 DOI: 10.1021/ml500436s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
To address the need for highly potent, metabolically stable, and selective agonists, antagonists, and inverse agonists at the melanocortin receptor subtypes, conformationally constrained indolo- and benzazepinone residues were inserted into the α-MSH pharmacophore, His(6)-Phe(7)-Arg(8)-Trp(9)-domain. Replacement of His(6) by an aminoindoloazepinone (Aia) or aminobenzazepinone (Aba) moiety led to hMC4R and hMC5R selective agonist and antagonist ligands, respectively (tetrapeptides 1 to 3 and 4, respectively). In peptides 1 to 3 and depending on the para-substituent of the d-Phe residue in position 2, the activity goes from allosteric partial agonism (1, R = H) to allosteric full agonism (2, R = F) and finally allosteric partial agonism (3, R = Br).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Van der Poorten
- Research
Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Krisztina Fehér
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, University of Ghent, Krijgslaan 281 S4, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Buysse
- Research
Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Debby Feytens
- Research
Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ioanna Zoi
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Steven D. Schwartz
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - José C. Martins
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, University of Ghent, Krijgslaan 281 S4, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk Tourwé
- Research
Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Minying Cai
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Victor J. Hruby
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States
| | - Steven Ballet
- Research
Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cai M, Stankova M, Muthu D, Mayorov A, Yang Z, Trivedi D, Cabello C, Hruby VJ. An unusual conformation of γ-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogues leads to a selective human melanocortin 1 receptor antagonist for targeting melanoma cells. Biochemistry 2013; 52:752-64. [PMID: 23276279 PMCID: PMC3641192 DOI: 10.1021/bi300723f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
γ-MSH (γ-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, H-Tyr-Val-Met-Gly-His-Phe-Arg-Trp-Asp-Arg-Phe-Gly-OH), with its exquisite specificity and potency, has recently created much excitement as a drug lead. However, this peptide is like most peptides susceptible to proteolysis in vivo, which potentially decreases its beneficial activities. In our continued effort to design a proteolytically stable ligand with specific receptor binding, we have engineered peptides by cyclizing γ-MSH using a thioether bridge. A number of novel cyclic truncated γ-MSH analogues were designed and synthesized, in which a thioether bridge was incorporated between a cysteine side chain and an N-terminal bromoacyl group. One of these peptides, cyclo-[(CH(2))(3)CO-Gly(1)-His(2)-D-Phe(3)-Arg(4)-D-Trp(5)-Cys(S-)(6)]-Asp(7)-Arg(8)-Phe(9)-Gly(10)-NH(2), demonstrated potent antagonist activity and receptor selectivity for the human melanocortin 1 receptor (hMC1R) (IC(50) = 17 nM). This novel peptide is the most selective antagonist for the hMC1R to date. Further pharmacological studies have shown that this peptide can specifically target melanoma cells. The nuclear magnetic resonance analysis of this peptide in a membrane-like environment revealed a new turn structure, specific to the hMC1R antagonist, at the C-terminus, where the side chain and backbone conformation of D-Trp(5) and Phe(9) of the peptide contribute to hMC1R selectivity. Cyclization strategies represent an approach for stabilizing bioactive peptides while keeping their full potencies and should boost applications of peptide-based drugs in human medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minying Cai
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, 1306 E. University Blvd., University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | | | - Dhanasekaran Muthu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, 1306 E. University Blvd., University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Alexander Mayorov
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, 1306 E. University Blvd., University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Zhehui Yang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, 1306 E. University Blvd., University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Devendra Trivedi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, 1306 E. University Blvd., University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Christopher Cabello
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, 1306 E. University Blvd., University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Victor J. Hruby
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, 1306 E. University Blvd., University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Martin ME, O'Dorisio MS, Leverich WM, Kloepping KC, Schultz MK, Schultz MK. "Click"-cyclized (68)Ga-labeled peptides for molecular imaging and therapy: synthesis and preliminary in vitro and in vivo evaluation in a melanoma model system. Recent Results Cancer Res 2013; 194:149-75. [PMID: 22918759 PMCID: PMC3799893 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-27994-2_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Cyclization techniques are used often to impart higher in vivo stability and binding affinity to peptide targeting vectors for molecular imaging and therapy. The two most often used techniques to impart these qualities are lactam bridge construction and disulfide bond formation. While these techniques have been demonstrated to be effective, orthogonal protection/deprotection steps can limit achievable product yields. In the work described in this chapter, new α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) peptide analogs were synthesized and cyclized by copper-catalyzed terminal azide-alkyne cycloaddition "click" chemistry techniques. The α-MSH peptide and its cognate receptor (melanocortin receptor subtype 1, MC1R) represent a well-characterized model system to examine the effect of the triazole linkage for peptide cyclization on receptor binding in vitro and in vivo. Four new DOTA-conjugated α-MSH analogs were cyclized and evaluated by in vitro competitive binding assays, serum stability testing, and in vivo imaging by positron emission tomography (PET) of tumor-bearing mice. These new DOTA-conjugated click-cyclized analogs exhibited selective high binding affinity (<2 nM) for MC1R on melanoma cells in vitro, high stability in human serum, and produced high-contrast PET/CT images of tumor xenografts. (68)Ga-labeled DOTA bioconjugates displayed rapid pharmacokinetics with receptor-mediated tumor accumulation of up to 16 ± 5% ID/g. The results indicate that the triazole ring is an effective bioisosteric replacement for the standard lactam bridge assemblage for peptide cyclization. Radiolabeling results confirm that Cu catalyst is sufficiently removed prior to DOTA chelator addition to enable insertion of radio metals or stable metals for molecular imaging and therapy. Thus, these click-chemistry-cyclized variants show promise as agents for melanocortin receptor-targeted imaging and radionuclide therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Molly E. Martin
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa
| | - M. Sue O'Dorisio
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa,Corresponding Author: Michael K. Schultz PhD, Departments of Radiology and Radiation Oncology (Free Radical Radiation Biology Program), Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, ML B180, 500 Newton Road, Iowa City, IA 52242. Tel: +1 (319) 356-3380; Fax: +1 (319) 335-8668;
| | - Whitney M. Leverich
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa
| | - Kyle C. Kloepping
- Department of Radiology, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa,Department of Radiation Oncology (Free Radical Radiation Biology Program), Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa
| | - Michael K. Schultz
- Department of Radiology, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa,Department of Radiation Oncology (Free Radical Radiation Biology Program), Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa,Corresponding Author: Michael K. Schultz PhD, Departments of Radiology and Radiation Oncology (Free Radical Radiation Biology Program), Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, ML B180, 500 Newton Road, Iowa City, IA 52242. Tel: +1 (319) 356-3380; Fax: +1 (319) 335-8668;
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mayorov AV, Cai M, Palmer ES, Tanaka DK, Cain JP, Dedek MM, Tan B, Trivedi D, Hruby VJ. Cyclic lactam hybrid α-MSH/Agouti-related protein (AGRP) analogues with nanomolar range binding affinities at the human melanocortin receptors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2011; 21:3099-102. [PMID: 21486697 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2011.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2010] [Revised: 03/04/2011] [Accepted: 03/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A novel hybrid melanocortin pharmacophore was designed based on the topographical similarities between the pharmacophores of Agouti related protein (AGRP) an endogenous melanocortin antagonist, and α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), an endogenous melanocortin agonist. When employed in two different 23-membered macrocyclic lactam peptide templates, the designed hybrid AGRP/MSH pharmacophore yielded non-competitive ligands with nanomolar range binding affinities. The topography-based pharmacophore hybridization strategy will prove useful in development of unique non-competitive melanocortin receptor modulators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander V Mayorov
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mayorov AV, Cai M, Palmer ES, Liu Z, Cain JP, Vagner J, Trivedi D, Hruby VJ. Solid-phase peptide head-to-side chain cyclodimerization: discovery of C(2)-symmetric cyclic lactam hybrid α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH)/agouti-signaling protein (ASIP) analogues with potent activities at the human melanocortin receptors. Peptides 2010; 31:1894-905. [PMID: 20688117 PMCID: PMC3041174 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2010.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2010] [Revised: 06/23/2010] [Accepted: 06/23/2010] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
A novel hybrid melanocortin pharmacophore was designed based on the pharmacophores of the agouti-signaling protein (ASIP), an endogenous melanocortin antagonist, and α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), an endogenous melanocortin agonist. The designed hybrid ASIP/MSH pharmacophore was explored in monomeric cyclic, and cyclodimeric templates. The monomeric cyclic disulfide series yielded peptides with hMC3R-selective non-competitive binding affinities. The direct on-resin peptide lactam cyclodimerization yielded nanomolar range (25-120 nM) hMC1R-selective full and partial agonists in the cyclodimeric lactam series which demonstrates an improvement over the previous attempts at hybridization of MSH and agouti protein sequences. The secondary structure-oriented pharmacophore hybridization strategy will prove useful in development of unique allosteric and orthosteric melanocortin receptor modulators. This report also illustrates the utility of peptide cyclodimerization for the development of novel GPCR peptide ligands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Minying Cai
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA
| | - Erin S. Palmer
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA
| | - Zhihua Liu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA
| | - James P. Cain
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA
| | - Josef Vagner
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA
| | - Dev Trivedi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA
| | - Victor J. Hruby
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Doedens L, Opperer F, Cai M, Beck JG, Dedek M, Palmer E, Hruby VJ, Kessler H. Multiple N-methylation of MT-II backbone amide bonds leads to melanocortin receptor subtype hMC1R selectivity: pharmacological and conformational studies. J Am Chem Soc 2010; 132:8115-28. [PMID: 20496895 PMCID: PMC2895553 DOI: 10.1021/ja101428m] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Multiple N-methylation is a novel technology to improve bioavailability of peptides and increase receptor subtype selectivity. This technique has been applied here to the superpotent but nonselective cyclic peptide MT-II. A library of all possible 31 backbone N-methylated derivatives has been synthesized and tested for binding and activation at melanocortin receptor subtypes 1, 3, 4, and 5. It turned out that selectivity is improved with every introduced N-methyl group, resulting in several N-methylated selective and potent agonists for the hMC1R. The most potent of these derivatives is N-methylated on four out of five amide bonds in the cyclic structure. Its solution structure indicates a strongly preferred backbone conformation that resembles other alpha-MSH analogs but possesses much less flexibility and in addition distinct differences in the spatial arrangement of individual amino acid side chains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Doedens
- Institute for Advanced Study and Center for Integrated Protein Science at the Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85747 Garching, Germany
| | - Florian Opperer
- Institute for Advanced Study and Center for Integrated Protein Science at the Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85747 Garching, Germany
| | - Minying Cai
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, U.S.A
| | - Johannes G. Beck
- Institute for Advanced Study and Center for Integrated Protein Science at the Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85747 Garching, Germany
| | - Matt Dedek
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, U.S.A
| | - Erin Palmer
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, U.S.A
| | - Victor J. Hruby
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85721, U.S.A
| | - Horst Kessler
- Institute for Advanced Study and Center for Integrated Protein Science at the Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85747 Garching, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
From a scientific perspective, efforts to understand biology including what constitutes health and disease has become a chemical problem. However, chemists and biologists "see" the problems of understanding biology from different perspectives, and this has retarded progress in solving the problems especially as they relate to health and disease. This suggests that close collaboration between chemists and biologists is not only necessary but essential for progress in both the biology and chemistry that will provide solutions to the global questions of biology. This perspective has directed my scientific efforts for the past 45 years, and in this overview I provide my perspective of how the applications of synthetic chemistry, structural design, and numerous other chemical principles have intersected in my collaborations with biologists to provide new tools, new science, and new insights that were only made possible and fruitful by these collaborations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor J Hruby
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wei L, Zhang X, Gallazzi F, Miao Y, Jin X, Brechbiel MW, Xu H, Clifford T, Welch MJ, Lewis JS, Quinn TP. Melanoma imaging using (111)In-, (86)Y- and (68)Ga-labeled CHX-A''-Re(Arg11)CCMSH. Nucl Med Biol 2009; 36:345-54. [PMID: 19423001 DOI: 10.1016/j.nucmedbio.2009.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2008] [Revised: 12/15/2008] [Accepted: 01/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A novel alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone peptide analog CHX-A''-Re(Arg(11))CCMSH, which targeted the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1-R) overexpressed on melanoma cells, was investigated for its biodistribution and tumor imaging properties. METHODS The metal bifunctional chelator CHX-A'' was conjugated to the melanoma targeting peptide (Arg(11))CCMSH and cyclized by Re incorporation to yield CHX-A''-Re(Arg(11))CCMSH. CHX-A''-Re(Arg(11))CCMSH was labeled with (111)In, (86)Y and (68)Ga, and the radiolabeled peptides were examined in B16/F1 melanoma-bearing mice for their pharmacokinetic as well as their tumor targeting properties using small animal SPECT and PET. RESULTS The radiolabeling efficiencies of the (111)In-, (86)Y- and (68)Ga-labeled CHX-A''-Re(Arg(11))CCMSH peptides were >95%, resulting in specific activities of 4.44, 3.7 and 1.85 MBq/microg, respectively. Tumor uptake of the (111)In-, (86)Y- and (68)Ga-labeled peptides was rapid with 4.17+/-0.94, 4.68+/-1.02 and 2.68+/-0.69 %ID/g present in the tumors 2 h postinjection, respectively. Disappearance of radioactivity from the normal organs and tissues was rapid with the exception of the kidneys. Melanoma tumors were imaged with all three radiolabeled peptides 2 h postinjection. MC1-R-specific uptake was confirmed by competitive receptor blocking studies. CONCLUSIONS Melanoma tumor uptake and imaging was exhibited by the (111)In-, (86)Y- and (68)Ga-labeled Re(Arg(11))CCMSH peptides, although the tumor uptake was moderated by low specific activity. The facile radiolabeling properties of CHX-A''-Re(Arg(11))CCMSH allow it to be employed as a melanoma imaging agent with little or no purification after (111)In, (86)Y and (68)Ga labeling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lihui Wei
- Department of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Design And Parallel Synthesis Of New Bicyclic Small Molecules For Targeting The Melanocortin Receptors. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2009; 611:187-8. [DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-73657-0_86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
12
|
Grieco P, Cai M, Han G, Trivedi D, Campiglia P, Novellino E, Hruby VJ. Further structure-activity studies of lactam derivatives of MT-II and SHU-9119: their activity and selectivity at human melanocortin receptors 3, 4, and 5. Peptides 2007; 28:1191-6. [PMID: 17482720 PMCID: PMC1955225 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2007.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2007] [Accepted: 02/23/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Recently we have demonstrated that replacing His(6) by constrained amino acids(2) in the well-known antagonist SHU-9119 resulted in potent and selective antagonist ligands especially at the hMC3R and hMC5 receptors. With the aim to further explore position 6 in the sequence of SHU-9119 and MT-II, we have designed, synthesized, and pharmacologically characterized a series of peptide analogues of MT-II and SHU-9119 at the human melanocortin receptors subtypes MC3R, MC4R and MC5R. All these peptides were modified at position 6 with constrained amino acids which are commercially available. In this study, we have identified new selective ligands for the hMC4R, and an antagonist for the hMC3/hMC4 receptors. Additionally, we have discovered an interesting new selective antagonist at the hMC3R, Ac-Nle-c[Asp-betaAla-DNal(2')-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH(2) (2, PG-106) which represents an important tool in further biological investigations of the hMC3R. PG-106 will be useful in further efforts to differentiate the substructural features responsible for selectivity at the hMC3R, hMC4R, and hMC5R.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Humans
- Lactams/chemistry
- Lactams/pharmacology
- Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormones/chemical synthesis
- Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormones/chemistry
- Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormones/pharmacology
- Molecular Structure
- Peptides, Cyclic/chemical synthesis
- Peptides, Cyclic/chemistry
- Peptides, Cyclic/pharmacology
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 3/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 3/drug effects
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 4/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 4/drug effects
- Receptors, Corticotropin/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Corticotropin/drug effects
- Receptors, Melanocortin/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Melanocortin/drug effects
- Structure-Activity Relationship
- alpha-MSH/analogs & derivatives
- alpha-MSH/chemical synthesis
- alpha-MSH/chemistry
- alpha-MSH/pharmacology
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Grieco
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ballet S, Mayorov AV, Cai M, Tymecka D, Chandler KB, Palmer ES, Rompaey KV, Misicka A, Tourwé D, Hruby VJ. Novel selective human melanocortin-3 receptor ligands: use of the 4-amino-1,2,4,5-tetrahydro-2-benzazepin-3-one (Aba) scaffold. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2007; 17:2492-8. [PMID: 17314042 PMCID: PMC2442462 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2007.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2007] [Revised: 02/06/2007] [Accepted: 02/07/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In search of new selective antagonists and/or agonists for the human melanocortin receptor subtypes hMC1R to hMC5R to elucidate the specific biological roles of each GPCR, we modified the structures of the superagonist MT-II (Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH(2)) and the hMC3R/hMC4R antagonist SHU9119 (Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Nal(2')-Arg-Trp-Lys]-NH(2)) by replacing the His-d-Phe and His-d-Nal(2') fragments in MT-II and SHU9119, respectively, with Aba-Xxx (4-amino-1,2,4,5-tetrahydro-2-benzazepin-3-one-Xxx) dipeptidomimetics (Xxx=D-Phe/pCl-D-Phe/D-Nal(2')). Employment of the Aba mimetic yielded novel selective high affinity hMC3R and hMC3R/hMC5R antagonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Ballet
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hruby VJ, Cai M, Cain JP, Mayorov AV, Dedek MM, Trivedi D. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of ligands selective for the melanocortin-3 receptor. Curr Top Med Chem 2007; 7:1107-19. [PMID: 17584128 PMCID: PMC2274922 DOI: 10.2174/156802607780906645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The processed products of the proopiomelanocortin gene (ACTH, alpha-MSH, beta-MSH, gamma-MSH, etc.) interact with five melanocortin receptors, the MC1R, MC2R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R to modulate and control many important biological functions crucial for good health both peripherally (as hormones) and centrally (as neurotransmitters). Pivotal biological functions include pigmentation, adrenal function, response to stress, fear/flight, energy homeostasis, feeding behavior, sexual function and motivation, pain, immune response, and many others, and are believed to be involved in many disease states including pigmentary disorders, adrenal disorders, obesity, anorexia, prolonged and neuropathic pain, inflammatory response, etc. The melanocortin-3 receptor (MC3R) is found primarily in the brain and spinal cord and also in the periphery, and its biological functions are still not well understood. Here we review some of the biological functions attributed to the MC3R, and then examine in more detail efforts to design and synthesize ligands that are potent and selective for the MC3R, which might help resolve the many questions still remaining about its function. Though some progress has been made, there is still much to be done in this critical area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor J Hruby
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chen M, Georgeson KE, Harmon CM, Haskell-Luevano C, Yang Y. Functional characterization of the modified melanocortin peptides responsible for ligand selectivity at the human melanocortin receptors. Peptides 2006; 27:2836-45. [PMID: 16730390 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2006.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2006] [Revised: 04/14/2006] [Accepted: 04/17/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The melanocortin system plays an important role in energy homeostasis as well as skin pigmentation, steroidogenesis and exocrine gland function. In this study, we examined eight Ac-His-Phe-Arg-Trp-NH(2) tetrapeptides that were modified at the Phe position and pharmacologically characterized their activities at the human MCR wild-types and their mutants. Our results indicate that at the hMC1R, all D stereochemical modified residues at the Phe position of peptides increase cAMP production in a dose-dependent manner. At the hMC3R, the DPhe peptide dose dependently increases cAMP production but all other three tetrapeptides were not. At the hMC4R, both the DPhe and DNal(1') peptides induce cAMP production. However, both DTyr and DNal(2') were not able to induce cAMP production. Further studies indicated that at the hMC1R M128L mutant receptor, the all D-configured tetrapeptides reduce their potencies as compared to that of hMC1R wild-type. However, at the hMC3R and hMC4R L165M and L133M mutant receptors, the DNal(2') and DTyr tetrapeptides possess agonist activity. These findings indicate that DPhe in tetrapeptide plays an important role in ligand selectivity and specific residue TM3 of the melanocortin receptors is crucial for ligand selectivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cain JP, Mayorov AV, Cai M, Wang H, Tan B, Chandler K, Lee Y, Petrov RR, Trivedi D, Hruby VJ. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of a new class of small molecule peptide mimetics targeting the melanocortin receptors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2006; 16:5462-7. [PMID: 16931008 PMCID: PMC1810397 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2006.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2006] [Revised: 06/23/2006] [Accepted: 07/05/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
A new bicyclic template has been developed for the synthesis of peptide mimetics. Straightforward synthetic steps, starting from amino acids, allow the facile construction of a wide range of analogs. This system was designed to target the melanocortin receptors (MCRs), with functional group selection based on a known pharmacophore and guidance from molecular modeling to rationally identify positional and stereochemical isomers likely to be active. The functions of hMCRs are critical to myriad biological activities, including pigmentation, steroidogenesis, energy homeostasis, erectile activity, and inflammation. These G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are targets for drug discovery in a number of areas, including cancer, pain, and obesity therapeutics. All compounds from this series tested to date are antagonists which bind with high affinity. Importantly, many are highly selective for a particular MCR subtype, including some of the first completely hMC5R-selective antagonists reported.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James P Cain
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Cai M, Varga EV, Stankova M, Mayorov A, Perry JW, Yamamura HI, Trivedi D, Hruby VJ. Cell signaling and trafficking of human melanocortin receptors in real time using two-photon fluorescence and confocal laser microscopy: differentiation of agonists and antagonists. Chem Biol Drug Des 2006; 68:183-93. [PMID: 17105482 PMCID: PMC2547351 DOI: 10.1111/j.1747-0285.2006.00432.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Melanocortin hormones and neurotransmitters regulate a vast array of physiologic processes by interacting with five G-protein-coupled melanocortin receptor types. In the present study, we have systematically studied the regulation of individual human melanocortin receptor wild subtypes using a synthetic rhodamine-labeled human melanotropin agonist and antagonist, arrestins fused to green fluorescent protein in conjunction with two-photon fluorescence laser scanning microscopy and confocal microscopy. Stimulation of the melanocortin receptors by its cognate agonist triggered rapid arrestin recruitment and receptor internalization for all four human melanocortin receptors examined. Antagonists-bound melanocortin receptors, on the other hand, did not recruit beta-arrestins, and remained in the cell membrane even after long-term (30 min) treatment. Agonist-mediated internalization of all melanocortin receptor subtypes was sensitive to inhibitors of clathrin-dependent endocytosis, but not to caveolae inhibitors. In summary, agonist-mediated internalization of all subtypes of melanocortin receptors are dependent upon beta-arrestin-mediated clathrin-coated pits, whereas, beta-arrestin-2 conjugated green fluorescence protein (beta-arrestin-2-GFP) recruitment is not dependent on protein kinase A activation. Real time two-photon fluorescence laser scanning microscopy is a most powerful tool to study the dynamic processes in living cells and tissues, without inflicting significant and often lethal damage to the specimen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minying Cai
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Eva V. Varga
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Magda Stankova
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Alexander Mayorov
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Joseph W. Perry
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Henry I. Yamamura
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Dev Trivedi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Victor J. Hruby
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mayorov AV, Han SY, Cai M, Hammer MR, Trivedi D, Hruby VJ. Effects of macrocycle size and rigidity on melanocortin receptor-1 and -5 selectivity in cyclic lactam alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogs. Chem Biol Drug Des 2006; 67:329-35. [PMID: 16784457 PMCID: PMC1851940 DOI: 10.1111/j.1747-0285.2006.00383.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The effects of the linker arm rigidity and size on melanocortin receptor selectivity were explored in a series of compounds using cyclic lactam alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone template. A variety of dicarboxylic acid linkers introduced between the alpha-amino group of His(6) and the epsilon-amino group of Lys(10) lead to high-affinity, selective human melanocortin receptor-1 and -5 (hMC1R and hMC5R) antagonists. The incorporation of hydrophilic functions into the linker arm was found to be unfavorable for both binding potency and receptor selectivity. Analogs 8 and 9 containing highly conformationally constrained hydrophobic linkers (m- and p-phthalic acids) were found to be selective nanomolar range hMC1R antagonists (IC(50) = 7 and 4 nm, respectively), whereas the employment of a small conformationally constrained linker (maleic acid) resulted in a high-affinity (IC(50) = 19 nm) and selective hMC5R antagonist (analog 12). These newly developed melanotropins will serve as critical biochemical tools for elucidating the full spectrum of functions performed by the physiologically important melanocortin-1 and -5 receptors.
Collapse
Key Words
- α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone
- antagonist
- human melanocortin-1 receptor
- human melanocortin-5 receptor
- macrocyclic
- melanocortin
- peptide
- all, allyl
- alloc, allyloxycarbonyl
- boc, tert-butyloxycarbonyl
- fmoc, fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl
- ch3cn, acetonitrile
- dcm, dichloromethane
- dipea, diisopropylethylamine
- dmf, n,n-dimethylformamide
- dic, diisopropyl carbodiimide
- hbtu, 2-(1h-benzotriazole-1-yl)-1, 1, 3, 3-tetramethyluronium hexafluorophosphate
- hobt, n-hydroxybenzotriazole
- hmcr, human melanocortin receptor
- msh, melanocyte-stimulating hormone
- nal(2′), 2′-naphthylalanine
- pbf, 2, 2, 4, 6, 7-pentamethyldihydrobenzofuran-5-sulfonyl
- pybop, benzotriazol-1-yloxy-tris-pyrrolidinophosphonium hexafluorophosphate
- tfa, trifluoroacetic acid
- trt, trityl
- spps, solid-phase peptide synthesis
- rp-hplc, reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography
- hmc1r, human melanocortin-1 receptor
- α-msh, ac-ser-tyr-ser-met-glu-his-phe-arg-trp-gly-lys-pro-val-nh2
- ndp-α-msh, ac-ser-tyr-ser-nle-glu-his-d-phe-arg-trp-gly-lys-pro-val-nh2
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adenylyl Cyclases/metabolism
- Binding, Competitive
- Cell Line
- Drug Design
- Humans
- Kidney/cytology
- Kidney/metabolism
- Lactams, Macrocyclic/chemistry
- Molecular Structure
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 1/agonists
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 1/metabolism
- Receptors, Corticotropin/agonists
- Receptors, Corticotropin/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Corticotropin/metabolism
- Receptors, Melanocortin
- Transfection
- alpha-MSH/analogs & derivatives
- alpha-MSH/chemistry
- alpha-MSH/metabolism
- alpha-MSH/pharmacology
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - So-Yeop Han
- Department of Chemistry, Division of Molecular Life Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 120-750, South Korea
| | - Minying Cai
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Matthew R. Hammer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Dev Trivedi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Victor J. Hruby
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mayorov AV, Cai M, Chandler KB, Petrov RR, Van Scoy AR, Yu Z, Tanaka DK, Trivedi D, Hruby VJ. Development of cyclic gamma-MSH analogues with selective hMC3R agonist and hMC3R/hMC5R antagonist activities. J Med Chem 2006; 49:1946-52. [PMID: 16539382 PMCID: PMC1484467 DOI: 10.1021/jm0510326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A series of cyclic lactam analogues of gamma-MSH (H-Tyr1-Val2-Met3-Gly4-His5-Phe6-Arg7-Trp8-Asp9-Arg10-Phe11-Gly12-OH) with a bulky hydrophobic residue in the direct proximity to the pharmacophore (Xaa-D-Phe/D-Nal(2')-Arg-Trp) were designed and synthesized by solid-phase methods. A variety of amino acids with a broad range of hydrophobic/hydrophilic properties was introduced in position 5 to further explore their complementary role in receptor selectivity. Biological evaluation of these peptides revealed several analogues with potent hMC3R agonist and hMC3R/hMC5R antagonist activities, and good receptor selectivity. Analogue 4, c[Nle-Arg-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Glu]-NH2, was found to be a very potent and selective hMC3R agonist (EC50=1.2 nM, 112% act). In addition, analogue 13, c[Nle-Val-D-Nal(2')-Arg-Trp-Glu]-NH2, was identified as an hMC3R/hMC5R antagonist with the best selectivity against the hMC4R in this series (pA2(hMC3R)=8.4; pA2(hMC5R)=8.7). These results indicate the significance of steric factors in melanocortin receptor selectivity and suggest that introduction of bulky residues in the direct proximity to the melanocortin pharmacophore is an effective approach to design of novel hMC3R and hMC5R selective ligands.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adenylyl Cyclases/biosynthesis
- Binding, Competitive
- Cell Line
- Drug Design
- Humans
- Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
- Lactams/chemical synthesis
- Lactams/chemistry
- Lactams/pharmacology
- Models, Molecular
- Peptides, Cyclic/chemical synthesis
- Peptides, Cyclic/chemistry
- Peptides, Cyclic/pharmacology
- Radioligand Assay
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 3/agonists
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 3/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 3/chemistry
- Receptors, Corticotropin/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Corticotropin/chemistry
- Receptors, Melanocortin
- Structure-Activity Relationship
- gamma-MSH/chemistry
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Minying Cai
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Kevin B. Chandler
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Ravil R. Petrov
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - April R. Van Scoy
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Zerui Yu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Dustin K. Tanaka
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Dev Trivedi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| | - Victor J. Hruby
- Department of Chemistry, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wels B, Kruijtzer JAW, Garner KM, Adan RAH, Liskamp RMJ. Synthesis of cyclic peptidosulfonamides as scaffolds for MC4 pharmacophoric groups. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2005; 15:287-90. [PMID: 15603941 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2004.10.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2004] [Revised: 10/25/2004] [Accepted: 10/28/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The synthesis of potential beta-turn mimetics based on cyclic sulfonamide peptoid/peptoid hybrids is described. These are readily synthesized using a solid phase protocol followed by cyclization in solution, and their suitability to combinatorial approaches is illustrated by the synthesis of a small but diversely functionalized library.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bas Wels
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, PO Box 80082, 3508 TB Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|