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Raboni S, Faggiano S, Bettati S, Mozzarelli A. Methionine gamma lyase: Structure-activity relationships and therapeutic applications. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2024; 1872:140991. [PMID: 38147934 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2023.140991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Methionine gamma lyase (MGL) is a bacterial and plant enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of methionine in methanthiol, 2-oxobutanoate and ammonia. The enzyme belongs to fold type I of the pyridoxal 5'-dependent family. The catalytic mechanism and the structure of wild type MGL and variants were determined in the presence of the natural substrate as well as of many sulfur-containing derivatives. Structure-function relationship studies were pivotal for MGL exploitation in the treatment of cancer, bacterial infections, and other diseases. MGL administration to cancer cells leads to methionine starvation, thus decreasing cells viability and increasing their vulnerability towards other drugs. In antibiotic therapy, MGL acts by transforming prodrugs in powerful drugs. Numerous strategies have been pursued for the delivering of MGL in vivo to prolong its bioavailability and decrease its immunogenicity. These include conjugation with polyethylene glycol and encapsulation in synthetic or natural vesicles, eventually decorated with tumor targeting molecules, such as the natural phytoestrogens daidzein and genistein. The scientific achievements in studying MGL structure, function and perspective therapeutic applications came from the efforts of many talented scientists, among which late Tatyana Demidkina to whom we dedicate this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samanta Raboni
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Serena Faggiano
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Bettati
- Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy; National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), Rome, Italy; Department of Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Mozzarelli
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
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Javia BM, Gadhvi MS, Vyas SJ, Ghelani A, Wirajana N, Dudhagara DR. A review on L-methioninase in cancer therapy: Precision targeting, advancements and diverse applications for a promising future. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 265:130997. [PMID: 38508568 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Cancer remains a global health challenge, demanding novel therapeutic options due to the debilitating side effects of conventional treatments on healthy tissues. The review highlights the potential of L-methioninase, a pyridoxal-5-phosphate (PLP)-dependent enzyme, as a promising avenue in alternative cancer therapy. L-methioninase offers a unique advantage, its ability to selectively target and inhibit the growth of cancer cells without harming healthy cells. This selectivity arises because tumor cells lack an essential enzyme called methionine synthase, which healthy cells use to make the vital amino acid L-methionine. Several sources harbor L-methioninase, including bacteria, fungi, plants, and protozoa. Future research efforts can explore and exploit this diverse range of sources to improve the therapeutic potential of L-methioninase in the fight against cancer. Despite challenges, research actively explores microbial L-methioninase for its anticancer potential. This review examines the enzyme's side effects, advancements in combination therapies, recombinant technologies, polymer conjugation and novel delivery methods like nanoparticles, while highlighting the success of oral administration in preclinical trials. Beyond its promising role in cancer therapy, L-methioninase holds potential applications in food science, antioxidants, and various health concerns like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and neurodegenerative diseases. This review provides a piece of current knowledge and future prospects of L-methioninase, exploring its diverse therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhumi M Javia
- Department of Life Sciences, Bhakta Kavi Narsinh Mehta University, Khadiya, 362263 Junagadh, Gujarat, India
| | - Megha S Gadhvi
- Department of Life Sciences, Bhakta Kavi Narsinh Mehta University, Khadiya, 362263 Junagadh, Gujarat, India
| | - Suhas J Vyas
- Department of Life Sciences, Bhakta Kavi Narsinh Mehta University, Khadiya, 362263 Junagadh, Gujarat, India
| | - Anjana Ghelani
- Shree Ramkrishna Institute of Computer Education and Applied Sciences, Surat 395 001, Gujarat, India
| | - Nengah Wirajana
- Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Udayana University, Jimbaran Campus, Kuta-Badung, Bali, Indonesia
| | - Dushyant R Dudhagara
- Department of Life Sciences, Bhakta Kavi Narsinh Mehta University, Khadiya, 362263 Junagadh, Gujarat, India.
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Raboni S, Fumagalli F, Ceccone G, La Spina R, Ponti J, Mehn D, Guerrini G, Bettati S, Mozzarelli A, D'Acunto M, Presciuttini G, Cristallini C, Gabellieri E, Cioni P. Conjugation to gold nanoparticles of methionine gamma-lyase, a cancer-starving enzyme. Physicochemical characterization of the nanocomplex for prospective nanomedicine applications. Int J Pharm 2024; 653:123882. [PMID: 38342324 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.123882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
The pyridoxal 5'-dependent enzyme methionine γ-lyase (MGL) catalyzes the degradation of methionine. This activity has been profitable to develop an antitumor agent exploiting the strict dependence of most malignant cells on the availability of methionine. Indeed, methionine depletion blocks tumor proliferation and leads to an increased susceptibility to anticancer drugs. Here, we explore the conjugation of MGL to gold nanoparticles capped with citrate (AuNPs) as a novel strategy to deliver MGL to cancer cells. Measurements of Transmission Electron Microscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering, Asymmetrical Flow Field-Flow Fractionation, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, and Circular Dichroism allowed to achieve an extensive biophysical and biochemical characterization of the MGL-AuNP complex including particle size, size distribution, MGL loading yield, enzymatic activity, and impact of gold surface on protein structure. Noticeably, we found that activity retention was improved over time for the enzyme adsorbed to AuNPs with respect to the enzyme free in solution. The acquired body of knowledge on the nanocomplex properties and this encouraging stabilizing effect upon conjugation are the necessary basis for further studies aimed at the evaluation of the therapeutic potential of MGL-AuNP complex in a biological milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samanta Raboni
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 23/A, 43124 Parma, Italy; Institute of Biophysics, IBF Pisa - CNR, via G. Moruzzi, 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Francesco Fumagalli
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Via Enrico Fermi, 2749, 21027 Ispra, Italy.
| | - Giacomo Ceccone
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Via Enrico Fermi, 2749, 21027 Ispra, Italy.
| | - Rita La Spina
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Via Enrico Fermi, 2749, 21027 Ispra, Italy.
| | - Jessica Ponti
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Via Enrico Fermi, 2749, 21027 Ispra, Italy.
| | - Dora Mehn
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Via Enrico Fermi, 2749, 21027 Ispra, Italy.
| | - Giuditta Guerrini
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Via Enrico Fermi, 2749, 21027 Ispra, Italy.
| | - Stefano Bettati
- Institute of Biophysics, IBF Pisa - CNR, via G. Moruzzi, 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Via Volturno 39, 43126 Parma, Italy; Interdepartmental Center Biopharmanet-TEC, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Andrea Mozzarelli
- Institute of Biophysics, IBF Pisa - CNR, via G. Moruzzi, 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Mario D'Acunto
- Institute of Biophysics, IBF Pisa - CNR, via G. Moruzzi, 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
| | | | - Caterina Cristallini
- Institute for Chemical and Physical Processes, IPCF Pisa - CNR, Largo Lucio Lazzarino 2, 56122 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Edi Gabellieri
- Institute of Biophysics, IBF Pisa - CNR, via G. Moruzzi, 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Cioni
- Institute of Biophysics, IBF Pisa - CNR, via G. Moruzzi, 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
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Chen X, Ferchaud N, Briozzo P, Machover D, Simonson T. PLP-Dependent Enzyme Methionine γ-Lyase: Insights into the Michaelis Complex from Molecular Dynamics and Free Energy Simulations. Biochemistry 2023; 62:2791-2801. [PMID: 37668546 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.3c00355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Methionine γ-lyase (MGL) breaks down methionine, with the help of its cofactor pyridoxal-5'-phosphate (PLP), or vitamin B6. Methionine depletion is damaging for cancer cells but not normal cells, so MGL is of interest as a therapeutic protein. To increase our understanding and help engineer improved activity, we focused on the reactive, Michaelis complex M between MGL, covalently bound PLP, and substrate Met. M is not amenable to crystallography, as it proceeds to products. Experimental activity measurements helped exclude a mechanism that would bypass M . We then used molecular dynamics and alchemical free energy simulations to elucidate its structure and dynamics. We showed that the PLP phosphate has a pKa strongly downshifted by the protein, whether Met is present or not. Met binding affects the structure surrounding the reactive atoms. With Met, the Schiff base linkage between PLP and a nearby lysine shifts from a zwitterionic, keto form to a neutral, enol form that makes it easier for Met to approach its labile, target atom. The Met ligand also stabilizes the correct orientation of the Schiff base, more strongly than in simulations without Met, and in agreement with structures in the Protein Data Bank, where the Schiff base orientation correlates with the presence or absence of a co-bound anion or substrate analogue in the active site. Overall, the Met ligand helps organize the active site for the enzyme reaction by reducing fluctuations and shifting protonation states and conformational populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyu Chen
- Laboratoire de Biologie Structurale de la Cellule (CNRS UMR7654), Ecole Polytechnique, Palaiseau 91128, France
| | - Nathan Ferchaud
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, INRAE-AgroParisTech, University Paris-Saclay, Versailles 78026, France
| | - Pierre Briozzo
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, INRAE-AgroParisTech, University Paris-Saclay, Versailles 78026, France
| | - David Machover
- INSERM U935-UA09, University Paris-Saclay, Hôpital Paul-Brousse, 12, Avenue Paul Vaillant-Couturier, 94800 Villejuif, France
| | - Thomas Simonson
- Laboratoire de Biologie Structurale de la Cellule (CNRS UMR7654), Ecole Polytechnique, Palaiseau 91128, France
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Bianchi M, Rossi L, Pierigè F, Biagiotti S, Bregalda A, Tasini F, Magnani M. Preclinical and clinical developments in enzyme-loaded red blood cells: an update. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:921-935. [PMID: 37249524 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2219890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We have previously described the preclinical developments in enzyme-loaded red blood cells to be used in the treatment of several rare diseases, as well as in chronic conditions. AREA COVERED Since our previous publication we have seen further progress in the previously discussed approaches and, interestingly enough, in additional new studies that further strengthen the idea that red blood cell-based therapeutics may have unique advantages over conventional enzyme replacement therapies in terms of efficacy and safety. Here we highlight these investigations and compare, when possible, the reported results versus the current therapeutic approaches. EXPERT OPINION The continuous increase in the number of new potential applications and the progress from the encapsulation of a single enzyme to the engineering of an entire metabolic pathway open the field to unexpected developments and confirm the role of red blood cells as cellular bioreactors that can be conveniently manipulated to acquire useful therapeutic metabolic abilities. Positioning of these new approaches versus newly approved drugs is essential for the successful transition of this technology from the preclinical to the clinical stage and hopefully to final approval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Bianchi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Luigia Rossi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
- EryDel SpA, Bresso, MI, Italy
| | - Francesca Pierigè
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Sara Biagiotti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bregalda
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Filippo Tasini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Mauro Magnani
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
- EryDel SpA, Bresso, MI, Italy
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Montalbano S, Raboni S, Sidoli S, Mozzarelli A, Bettati S, Buschini A. Post-Translational Modifications of Histone Variants in the Absence and Presence of a Methionine-Depleting Enzyme in Normal and Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020527. [PMID: 36672476 PMCID: PMC9857184 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Methionine is an essential amino acid involved in the formation of polyamines and a precursor metabolite for DNA and protein methylation. The dependence of cancer cells on methionine has triggered extensive investigations aimed at its targeting for cancer therapy, including the exploitation as a therapeutic tool of methionine γ-lyase (MGL), a bacterial enzyme that degrades methionine, capable of inhibiting cancer cells growth due to methionine starvation. We have exploited the high-resolution power of mass spectrometry to compare the effects of reduced availability of the methyl donor SAM, induced by MGL treatment, on the post-translational modifications of the histone tails in normal Hs27 and cancer HT-29 cells. In the absence of MGL, our analysis detected a three-fold higher relative abundance of trimethylated K25 of H1.4 in HT-29 than Hs27 cells, and a complex pattern of methylated, unmethylated and acetylated peptides in H2 and H3.3. In the presence of MGL, in HT-29, the peptide H2A1_4_11 is predominantly unmodified with mono-methylated K5 increasing upon treatment, whereas in Hs27 cells, H2A1_4_11 is monomethylated at K5 and K9 with these marks decreasing upon treatment. The time dependence of the effects of MGL-mediated methionine depletion on PTMs of histone variants in HT-29 cancer cells was also monitored. Overall, our present data on histone variants H1, H2A, H2B as well as H3.3 integrated with our previous studies on histones H3 and H4, shed light on the epigenetic modifications associated with methionine starvation and associated cancer cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Montalbano
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
- COMT (Interdepartmental Centre for Molecular and Translational Oncology), University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Samanta Raboni
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 23/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
- Institute of Biophysics, National Research Center, Area della Ricerca di Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi 1, San Cataldo, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Center SITEIA.PARMA, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Simone Sidoli
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Andrea Mozzarelli
- Institute of Biophysics, National Research Center, Area della Ricerca di Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi 1, San Cataldo, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Bettati
- Institute of Biophysics, National Research Center, Area della Ricerca di Pisa, Via G. Moruzzi 1, San Cataldo, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Interdepartmental Center SITEIA.PARMA, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Annamaria Buschini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
- COMT (Interdepartmental Centre for Molecular and Translational Oncology), University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Jiang W, Wu Z, Gao Z, Wan M, Zhou M, Mao C, Shen J. Artificial Cells: Past, Present and Future. ACS NANO 2022; 16:15705-15733. [PMID: 36226996 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c06104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Artificial cells are constructed to imitate natural cells and allow researchers to explore biological process and the origin of life. The construction methods for artificial cells, through both top-down or bottom-up approaches, have achieved great progress over the past decades. Here we present a comprehensive overview on the development of artificial cells and their properties and applications. Artificial cells are derived from lipids, polymers, lipid/polymer hybrids, natural cell membranes, colloidosome, metal-organic frameworks and coacervates. They can be endowed with various functions through the incorporation of proteins and genes on the cell surface or encapsulated inside of the cells. These modulations determine the properties of artificial cells, including producing energy, cell growth, morphology change, division, transmembrane transport, environmental response, motility and chemotaxis. Multiple applications of these artificial cells are discussed here with a focus on therapeutic applications. Artificial cells are used as carriers for materials and information exchange and have been shown to function as targeted delivery systems of personalized drugs. Additionally, artificial cells can function to substitute for cells with impaired function. Enzyme therapy and immunotherapy using artificial cells have been an intense focus of research. Finally, prospects of future development of cell-mimic properties and broader applications are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wentao Jiang
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Ziyu Wu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Zheng Gao
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Mimi Wan
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Chun Mao
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jian Shen
- National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomedical Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
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Safrhansova L, Hlozkova K, Starkova J. Targeting amino acid metabolism in cancer. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 373:37-79. [PMID: 36283767 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic rewiring is a characteristic hallmark of cancer cells. This phenomenon sustains uncontrolled proliferation and resistance to apoptosis by increasing nutrients and energy supply. However, reprogramming comes together with vulnerabilities that can be used against tumor and can be applied in targeted therapy. In the last years, the genetic background of tumors has been identified thoroughly and new therapies targeting those mutations tested. Nevertheless, we propose that targeting the phenotype of cancer cells could be another way of treatment aiming to avoid drug resistance and non-responsiveness of cancer patients. Amino acid metabolism is part of the altered processes in cancer cells. Amino acids are building blocks and also sensors of signaling pathways regulating main biological processes. In this comprehensive review, we described four amino acids (asparagine, arginine, methionine, and cysteine) which have been actively investigated as potential targets for anti-tumor therapy. Asparagine depletion is successfully used for decades in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and there is a strong implication to apply it to other types of tumors. Arginine auxotrophic tumors are great candidates for arginine-starvation therapy. Higher requirement for essential amino acids such as methionine and cysteine point out promising targetable weaknesses of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Safrhansova
- CLIP - Childhood Leukaemia Investigation Prague, Prague, Czech Republic; Dept. of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Hlozkova
- CLIP - Childhood Leukaemia Investigation Prague, Prague, Czech Republic; Dept. of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Julia Starkova
- CLIP - Childhood Leukaemia Investigation Prague, Prague, Czech Republic; Dept. of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Zhou L, Chen Z, Liu C. Identification and verification of the role of crucial genes through which methionine restriction inhibits the progression of colon cancer cells. Oncol Lett 2022; 24:274. [PMID: 35782898 PMCID: PMC9247659 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2022.13394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies have shown that methionine restriction (MR) can inhibit tumor progression, but its mechanism in colon cancer is unknown. Through DESeq2 and Edge analysis of the GSE72131 and GSE103602 datasets, 649 co-upregulated and 532 co-downregulated genes affected by MR were identified, respectively. Enrichment analysis showed that these genes were closely associated with tumor progression. Combined with the differentially expressed genes of colon cancer in The Cancer Genome Atlas database, MR affected 330 dysregulated genes in colon cancer. On this basis, a transcriptional regulatory and competing endogenous RNA network was established and F transcription factor 1 and microRNA 17-92a-1 Cluster Host Gene were identified as a key transcription factor and long non-coding RNA, respectively. In addition, four genes (FA Complementation Group I, Holliday Junction Recognition Protein, Karyopherin Subunit Alpha 2 and Kinesin Family Member 15) were identified by analyzing the relationship between dysregulated genes and overall survival. Finally, western blotting, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, Transwell and other in vitro experiments verified that MR inhibits HCT116 colon cancer cell proliferation, metastasis and invasion, induces apoptosis and downregulates 6 hub genes. Collectively, the present study identified potential targets for MR to inhibit colon cancer progression and contributed to the clinical application of MR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqiang Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zhiqing Chen
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Chuan Liu
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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Bianchi M, Rossi L, Pierigè F, De Angeli P, Aliano MP, Carducci C, Di Carlo E, Pascucci T, Nardecchia F, Leuzzi V, Magnani M. Engineering new metabolic pathways in isolated cells for the degradation of guanidinoacetic acid and simultaneous production of creatine. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2022; 25:26-40. [PMID: 35317049 PMCID: PMC8917272 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2022.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Here we report, for the first time, the engineering of human red blood cells (RBCs) with an entire metabolic pathway as a potential strategy to treat patients with guanidinoacetate methyltransferase (GAMT) deficiency, capable of reducing the high toxic levels of guanidinoacetate acid (GAA) and restoring proper creatine levels in blood and tissues. We first produced a recombinant form of native human GAMT without any tags to encapsulate into RBCs. Due to the poor solubility and stability features of the recombinant enzyme, both bioinformatics studies and extensive optimization work were performed to select a mutant GAMT enzyme, where only four critical residues were replaced, as a lead candidate. However, GAMT-loaded RBCs were ineffective in GAA consumption and creatine production because of the limiting intra-erythrocytic S-adenosyl methionine (SAM) content unable to support GAMT activity. Therefore, a recombinant form of human methionine adenosyl transferase (MAT) was developed. RBCs co-entrapped with both GAMT and MAT enzymes performed, in vitro, as a competent cellular bioreactor to remove GAA and produce creatine, fueled by physiological concentrations of methionine and the ATP generated by glycolysis. Our results highlight that metabolic engineering of RBCs is possible and represents proof of concept for the design of novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Bianchi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Luigia Rossi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy.,EryDel, Via Antonio Meucci 3, 20091 Bresso, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Pierigè
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Pietro De Angeli
- Center for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Mattia Paolo Aliano
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Claudia Carducci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuele Di Carlo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Tiziana Pascucci
- Department of Psychology and "Daniel Bovet" Center, Sapienza University, 00184 Rome, Italy.,Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00142 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Nardecchia
- Division of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Leuzzi
- Division of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Magnani
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy.,EryDel, Via Antonio Meucci 3, 20091 Bresso, Milan, Italy
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Chen X, Briozzo P, Machover D, Simonson T. A Computational Model for the PLP-Dependent Enzyme Methionine γ-Lyase. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:886358. [PMID: 35558556 PMCID: PMC9087591 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.886358] [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] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pyridoxal-5′-phosphate (PLP) is a cofactor in the reactions of over 160 enzymes, several of which are implicated in diseases. Methionine γ-lyase (MGL) is of interest as a therapeutic protein for cancer treatment. It binds PLP covalently through a Schiff base linkage and digests methionine, whose depletion is damaging for cancer cells but not normal cells. To improve MGL activity, it is important to understand and engineer its PLP binding. We develop a simulation model for MGL, starting with force field parameters for PLP in four main states: two phosphate protonation states and two tautomeric states, keto or enol for the Schiff base moiety. We used the force field to simulate MGL complexes with each form, and showed that those with a fully-deprotonated PLP phosphate, especially keto, led to the best agreement with MGL structures in the PDB. We then confirmed this result through alchemical free energy simulations that compared the keto and enol forms, confirming a moderate keto preference, and the fully-deprotonated and singly-protonated phosphate forms. Extensive simulations were needed to adequately sample conformational space, and care was needed to extrapolate the protonation free energy to the thermodynamic limit of a macroscopic, dilute protein solution. The computed phosphate pKa was 5.7, confirming that the deprotonated, −2 form is predominant. The PLP force field and the simulation methods can be applied to all PLP enzymes and used, as here, to reveal fine details of structure and dynamics in the active site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyu Chen
- Laboratoire de Biologie Structurale de la Cellule (CNRS UMR7654), Ecole Polytechnique, Palaiseau, France
| | - Pierre Briozzo
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, INRAE-AgroParisTech, University Paris-Saclay, Paris, France
| | - David Machover
- INSERM U935-UA09, University Paris-Saclay, Hôpital Paul-Brousse, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Simonson
- Laboratoire de Biologie Structurale de la Cellule (CNRS UMR7654), Ecole Polytechnique, Palaiseau, France
- *Correspondence: Thomas Simonson,
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Raboni S, Montalbano S, Stransky S, Garcia BA, Buschini A, Bettati S, Sidoli S, Mozzarelli A. A Key Silencing Histone Mark on Chromatin Is Lost When Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Cells Are Depleted of Methionine by Methionine γ-Lyase. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:735303. [PMID: 34660696 PMCID: PMC8517235 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.735303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Methionine is an essential amino acid used, beyond protein synthesis, for polyamine formation and DNA/RNA/protein methylation. Cancer cells require particularly high methionine supply for their homeostasis. A successful approach for decreasing methionine concentration is based on the systemic delivery of methionine γ-lyase (MGL), with in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating its efficacy in cancer therapy. However, the mechanisms explaining how cancer cells suffer from the absence of methionine more significantly than non-malignant cells are still unclear. We analyzed the outcome of the human colorectal adenocarcinoma cancer cell line HT29 to the exposure of MGL for up to 72 h by monitoring cell viability, proteome expression, histone post-translational modifications, and presence of spurious transcription. The rationale of this study was to verify whether reduced methionine supply would affect chromatin decondensation by changing the levels of histone methylation and therefore increasing genomic instability. MGL treatment showed a time-dependent cytotoxic effect on HT29 cancer cells, with an IC50 of 30 µg/ml, while Hs27 normal cells were less affected, with an IC50 of >460 µg/ml. Although the levels of total histone methylation were not altered, a loss of the silencing histone mark H3K9me2 was observed, as well as a decrease in H4K20me3. Since H3K9me2/3 decorate repetitive DNA elements, we proved by qRT-PCR that MGL treatment leads to an increased expression of major satellite units. Our data indicate that selected histone methylation marks may play major roles in the mechanism of methionine starvation in cancer cells, proving that MGL treatment directly impacts chromatin homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samanta Raboni
- Interdepartmental Center SITEIA.PARMA, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.,Institute of Biophysics, National Research Center, Pisa, Italy
| | - Serena Montalbano
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Stephanie Stransky
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Benjamin A Garcia
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Annamaria Buschini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.,Interdepartmental Centre for Molecular and Translational Oncology COMT, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Stefano Bettati
- Interdepartmental Center SITEIA.PARMA, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.,Institute of Biophysics, National Research Center, Pisa, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Simone Sidoli
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Andrea Mozzarelli
- Institute of Biophysics, National Research Center, Pisa, Italy.,Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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13
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Philipp TM, Will A, Richter H, Winterhalter PR, Pohnert G, Steinbrenner H, Klotz LO. A coupled enzyme assay for detection of selenium-binding protein 1 (SELENBP1) methanethiol oxidase (MTO) activity in mature enterocytes. Redox Biol 2021; 43:101972. [PMID: 33901808 PMCID: PMC8099554 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2021.101972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Methanethiol, a gas with the characteristic smell of rotten cabbage, is a product of microbial methionine degradation. In the human body, methanethiol originates primarily from bacteria residing in the lumen of the large intestine. Selenium-binding protein 1 (SELENBP1), a marker protein of mature enterocytes, has recently been identified as a methanethiol oxidase (MTO). It catalyzes the conversion of methanethiol to hydrogen sulfide (H2S), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and formaldehyde. Here, human Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells were subjected to enterocyte-like differentiation, followed by analysis of SELENBP1 levels and MTO activity. To that end, we established a novel coupled assay to assess MTO activity mimicking the proximity of microbiome and intestinal epithelial cells in vivo. The assay is based on in situ-generation of methanethiol as catalyzed by a bacterial recombinant l-methionine gamma-lyase (MGL), followed by detection of H2S and H2O2. Applying this assay, we verified the loss and impairment of MTO function in SELENBP1 variants (His329Tyr; Gly225Trp) previously identified in individuals with familial extraoral halitosis. MTO activity was strongly enhanced in Caco-2 cells upon enterocyte differentiation, in parallel with increased SELENBP1 levels. This suggests that mature enterocytes located at the tip of colonic crypts are capable of eliminating microbiome-derived methanethiol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thilo Magnus Philipp
- Institute of Nutritional Sciences, Nutrigenomics Section, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Andreas Will
- Institute of Nutritional Sciences, Nutrigenomics Section, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Hannes Richter
- Institute for Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Georg Pohnert
- Institute for Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Holger Steinbrenner
- Institute of Nutritional Sciences, Nutrigenomics Section, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Lars-Oliver Klotz
- Institute of Nutritional Sciences, Nutrigenomics Section, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany.
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Rossi L, Pierigè F, Bregalda A, Magnani M. Preclinical developments of enzyme-loaded red blood cells. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2020; 18:43-54. [PMID: 32924643 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2020.1822320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Therapeutic enzymes are currently used in the treatment of several diseases. In most cases, the benefits are limited due to poor in vivo stability, immunogenicity, and drug-induced inactivating antibodies. A partial solution to the problem is obtained by masking the therapeutic protein by chemical modifications. Unfortunately, this is not a satisfactory solution because frequent adverse events, including anaphylaxis, can arise. AREA COVERED Among the delivery systems, we focused on red blood cells for the delivery of therapeutic enzymes. Erythrocytes possess a long circulation time, a reduced immunogenicity, there is no need of chemical modifications and the encapsulated enzyme remains active because it is protected by the cell membrane. Here we discuss some representative applications of the preclinical developments of the field. Some of these are currently in clinic, others are approaching the clinic and others are illustrative of the development process. The selected examples are not always the most recent, but they are the most useful for a comparative approach. EXPERT OPINION The results discussed confirm the central role that red blood cells can play in the treatment of several conditions and suggest the benefit in using a natural cellular carrier in terms of pharmacokinetic, biodistribution, safety, and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigia Rossi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino , Urbino, Italy.,EryDel SpA , Bresso, Italy
| | - Francesca Pierigè
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino , Urbino, Italy
| | | | - Mauro Magnani
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino , Urbino, Italy.,EryDel SpA , Bresso, Italy
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Koleva L, Bovt E, Ataullakhanov F, Sinauridze E. Erythrocytes as Carriers: From Drug Delivery to Biosensors. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E276. [PMID: 32197542 PMCID: PMC7151026 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12030276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug delivery using natural biological carriers, especially erythrocytes, is a rapidly developing field. Such erythrocytes can act as carriers that prolong the drug's action due to its gradual release from the carrier; as bioreactors with encapsulated enzymes performing the necessary reactions, while remaining inaccessible to the immune system and plasma proteases; or as a tool for targeted drug delivery to target organs, primarily to cells of the reticuloendothelial system, liver and spleen. To date, erythrocytes have been studied as carriers for a wide range of drugs, such as enzymes, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory, antiviral drugs, etc., and for diagnostic purposes (e.g. magnetic resonance imaging). The review focuses only on drugs loaded inside erythrocytes, defines the main lines of research for erythrocytes with bioactive substances, as well as the advantages and limitations of their application. Particular attention is paid to in vivo studies, opening-up the potential for the clinical use of drugs encapsulated into erythrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larisa Koleva
- Laboratory of Biophysics, Dmitriy Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Immunology, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Samory Mashela str., 1, GSP-7, Moscow 117198, Russia; (E.B.); (F.A.)
- Laboratory of Physiology and Biophysics of the Cell, Center for Theoretical Problems of Physicochemical Pharmacology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Srednyaya Kalitnikovskaya, 30, Moscow 109029, Russia
| | - Elizaveta Bovt
- Laboratory of Biophysics, Dmitriy Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Immunology, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Samory Mashela str., 1, GSP-7, Moscow 117198, Russia; (E.B.); (F.A.)
- Laboratory of Physiology and Biophysics of the Cell, Center for Theoretical Problems of Physicochemical Pharmacology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Srednyaya Kalitnikovskaya, 30, Moscow 109029, Russia
| | - Fazoil Ataullakhanov
- Laboratory of Biophysics, Dmitriy Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Immunology, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Samory Mashela str., 1, GSP-7, Moscow 117198, Russia; (E.B.); (F.A.)
- Laboratory of Physiology and Biophysics of the Cell, Center for Theoretical Problems of Physicochemical Pharmacology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Srednyaya Kalitnikovskaya, 30, Moscow 109029, Russia
- Department of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 1, build. 2, GSP-1, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Elena Sinauridze
- Laboratory of Biophysics, Dmitriy Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Immunology, Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Samory Mashela str., 1, GSP-7, Moscow 117198, Russia; (E.B.); (F.A.)
- Laboratory of Physiology and Biophysics of the Cell, Center for Theoretical Problems of Physicochemical Pharmacology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Srednyaya Kalitnikovskaya, 30, Moscow 109029, Russia
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