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Thomson AL, Robinson AJ, Belgi A. Synthesis of Cystine-Stabilised Dicarba Conotoxin EpI: Ring-Closing Metathesis of Sidechain Deprotected, Sulfide-Rich Sequences. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:390. [PMID: 37504921 PMCID: PMC10381330 DOI: 10.3390/md21070390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombinant peptide synthesis allows for large-scale production of peptides with therapeutic potential. However, access to dicarba peptidomimetics via sidechain-deprotected sequences becomes challenging with exposed Lewis basicity presented by amine and sulfur-containing residues. Presented here is a combination of strategies which can be used to deactivate coordinative residues and achieve high-yielding Ru-catalyzed ring-closing metathesis. The chemistry is exemplified using α-conotoxin EpI, a native bicyclic disulfide-containing sequence isolated from the marine conesnail Conus episcopatus. Replacement of the loop I disulfide with E/Z-dicarba bridges was achieved with high conversion via solution-phase ring-closing metathesis of the unprotected linear peptide after simple chemoselective oxidation and ion-exchange masking of problematic functionality. Metathesis was also attempted in green solvent choices to further improve the sustainability of dicarba peptide synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy L Thomson
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Andrea J Robinson
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Alessia Belgi
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
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2
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Hone AJ, McIntosh JM. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors: Therapeutic targets for novel ligands to treat pain and inflammation. Pharmacol Res 2023; 190:106715. [PMID: 36868367 PMCID: PMC10691827 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) have been historically defined as ligand-gated ion channels and function as such in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Recently, however, non-ionic signaling mechanisms via nAChRs have been demonstrated in immune cells. Furthermore, the signaling pathways where nAChRs are expressed can be activated by endogenous ligands other than the canonical agonists acetylcholine and choline. In this review, we discuss the involvement of a subset of nAChRs containing α7, α9, and/or α10 subunits in the modulation of pain and inflammation via the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway. Additionally, we review the most recent advances in the development of novel ligands and their potential as therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arik J Hone
- School of Biological Sciences University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; MIRECC, George E. Whalen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - J Michael McIntosh
- School of Biological Sciences University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; George E. Whalen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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3
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Shelukhina I, Siniavin A, Kasheverov I, Ojomoko L, Tsetlin V, Utkin Y. α7- and α9-Containing Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in the Functioning of Immune System and in Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076524. [PMID: 37047495 PMCID: PMC10095066 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) present as many different subtypes in the nervous and immune systems, muscles and on the cells of other organs. In the immune system, inflammation is regulated via the vagus nerve through the activation of the non-neuronal α7 nAChR subtype, affecting the production of cytokines. The analgesic properties of α7 nAChR-selective compounds are mostly based on the activation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway. The molecular mechanism of neuropathic pain relief mediated by the inhibition of α9-containing nAChRs is not fully understood yet, but the role of immune factors in this process is becoming evident. To obtain appropriate drugs, a search of selective agonists, antagonists and modulators of α7- and α9-containing nAChRs is underway. The naturally occurring three-finger snake α-neurotoxins and mammalian Ly6/uPAR proteins, as well as neurotoxic peptides α-conotoxins, are not only sophisticated tools in research on nAChRs but are also considered as potential medicines. In particular, the inhibition of the α9-containing nAChRs by α-conotoxins may be a pathway to alleviate neuropathic pain. nAChRs are involved in the inflammation processes during AIDS and other viral infections; thus they can also be means used in drug design. In this review, we discuss the role of α7- and α9-containing nAChRs in the immune processes and in pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Yuri Utkin
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +7-495-3366522
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4
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A Single Amino Acid Replacement Boosts the Analgesic Activity of α-Conotoxin AuIB through the Inhibition of the GABA BR-Coupled N-Type Calcium Channel. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20120750. [PMID: 36547897 PMCID: PMC9781320 DOI: 10.3390/md20120750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
α-conotoxin AuIB is the only one of the 4/6 type α-conotoxins (α-CTxs) that inhibits the γ-aminobutyric acid receptor B (GABABR)-coupled N-type calcium channel (CaV2.2). To improve its inhibitory activity, a series of variants were synthesized and evaluated according to the structure-activity relationships of 4/7 type α-CTxs targeting GABABR-coupled CaV2.2. Surprisingly, only the substitution of Pro7 with Arg results in a 2-3-fold increase in the inhibition of GABABR-coupled CaV2.2 (IC50 is 0.74 nM); substitutions of position 9-12 with basic or hydrophobic amino acid and the addition of hydrophobic amino acid Leu or Ile at the second loop to mimic 4/7 type α-CTxs all failed to improve the inhibitory activity of AuIB against GABABR-coupled CaV2.2. Interestingly, the most potent form of AuIB[P7R] has disulfide bridges of "1-4, 2-3" (ribbon), which differs from the "1-3, 2-4" (globular) in the isoforms of wildtype AuIB. In addition, AuIB[P7R](globular) displays potent analgesic activity in the acetic acid writhing model and the partial sciatic nerve injury (PNL) model. Our study demonstrated that 4/6 type α-CTxs, with the disulfide bridge connectivity "1-4, 2-3," are also potent inhibitors for GABABR-coupled CaV2.2, exhibiting potent analgesic activity.
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5
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Huynh PN, Christensen SB, McIntosh JM. RgIA4 Prevention of Acute Oxaliplatin-Induced Cold Allodynia Requires α9-Containing Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors and CD3 + T-Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11223561. [PMID: 36428990 PMCID: PMC9688540 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain is a debilitating and dose-limiting side effect. Oxaliplatin is a third-generation platinum and antineoplastic compound that is commonly used to treat colorectal cancer and commonly yields neuropathic side effects. Available drugs such as duloxetine provide only modest benefits against oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy. A particularly disruptive symptom of oxaliplatin is painful cold sensitivity, known as cold allodynia. Previous studies of the Conus regius peptide, RgIA, and its analogs have demonstrated relief from oxaliplatin-induced cold allodynia, yielding improvement that persists even after treatment cessation. Moreover, underlying inflammatory and neuronal protection were shown at the cellular level in chronic constriction nerve injury models, consistent with disease-modifying effects. Despite these promising preclinical outcomes, the underlying molecular mechanism of action of RgIA4 remains an area of active investigation. This study aimed to determine the necessity of the α9 nAChR subunit and potential T-cell mechanisms in RgIA4 efficacy against acute oxaliplatin-induced cold allodynia. A single dose of oxaliplatin (10 mg/kg) was utilized followed by four daily doses of RgIA4. Subcutaneous administration of RgIA4 (40 µg/kg) prevented cold allodynia in wildtype mice but not in mice lacking the α9 nAChR-encoding gene, chrna9. RgIA4 also failed to reverse allodynia in mice depleted of CD3+ T-cells. In wildtype mice treated with oxaliplatin, quantitated circulating T-cells remained unaffected by RgIA4. Together, these results show that RgIA4 requires both chrna9 and CD3+ T-cells to exert its protective effects against acute cold-allodynia produced by oxaliplatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter N. Huynh
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Sean B. Christensen
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - J. Michael McIntosh
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- George E. Wahlen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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6
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Bony AR, McArthur JR, Komori A, Wong AR, Hung A, Adams DJ. Analgesic α -Conotoxin Binding Site on the Human GABAB Receptor. Mol Pharmacol 2022; 102:196-208. [PMID: 35944919 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.122.000543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The analgesic α-conotoxins Vc1.1, RgIA, and PeIA attenuate nociceptive transmission via activation of G protein-coupled GABAB receptors (GABABR) to modulate N-type calcium channels in primary afferent neurons and recombinantly co-expressed human GABABR and Cav2.2 channels in HEK293T cells. Here, we investigated the effects of analgesic α-conotoxins following the mutation of amino acid residues in the Venus Flytrap (VFT) domains of the GABABR subunits predicted through computational peptide docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Our docking calculations predicted that all three of the α-conotoxins form close contacts with VFT residues in both B1 and B2 subunits, comprising a novel GABABR ligand-binding site. The effects of baclofen and α-conotoxins on the peak Ba2+ current (IBa) amplitude were investigated on wild-type and 15 GABABR mutants individually co-expressed with human Cav2.2 channels. Mutations at the interface of the VFT domains of both GABABR subunits attenuated baclofen-sensitive IBa inhibition by the analgesic α-conotoxins. In contrast, mutations located outside the putative peptide-binding site (D380A and R98A) did not. The key GABABR residues involved in interactions with the α-conotoxins are K168 and R207 on the B2 subunit and S130, S153, R162, E200, F227, and E253 on the B1 subunit. The double mutant, S130A+S153A, abolished inhibition by both baclofen and the α-conotoxins. Depolarization-activated IBa mediated by both wild-type and all GABAαBR mutants were inhibited by the selective GABABR antagonist CGP 55845. This study identifies specific residues of GABABR involved in the binding of the analgesic α-conotoxins to the VFT domains of the GABABR. Significance Statement This study defines the binding site of analgesic α-conotoxins Vc1.1, RgIA, and PeIA on the human GABAB receptor to activate Gi/o proteins and inhibit Cav2.2 channels. Computational docking and MD simulations of GABABR identified amino acids of the Venus flytrap (VFT) domains with which the α-conotoxins interact. GABABR alanine mutants attenuated baclofen-sensitive Cav2.2 inhibition by the α-conotoxins. We identify an allosteric binding site at the interface of the VFT domains of the GABABR subunits for the analgesic α-conotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuja R Bony
- Illawarra Health & Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Australia
| | - Jeffrey R McArthur
- Illawarra Health & Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Australia
| | | | - Ann R Wong
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Australia
| | - Andrew Hung
- School of Science, RMIT University, Australia
| | - David J Adams
- Illawarra Health & Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Australia
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7
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Yousuf A, Wu X, Bony AR, Sadeghi M, Huang YH, Craik DJ, Adams DJ. ɑO-Conotoxin GeXIVA isomers modulate N-type calcium (Ca V 2.2) channels and inwardly-rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels via GABA B receptor activation. J Neurochem 2021; 160:154-171. [PMID: 34738241 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
αO-Conotoxin GeXIVA is a 28 amino acid peptide derived from the venom of the marine snail Conus generalis. The presence of four cysteine residues in the structure of GeXIVA allows it to have three different disulfide isomers, that is, the globular, ribbon or bead isomer. All three isomers are active at α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, with the bead isomer, GeXIVA[1,2], being the most potent and exhibiting analgesic activity in animal models of neuropathic pain. The original report of GeXIVA activity failed to observe any effect of the isomers on high voltage-activated (HVA) calcium channel currents in rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. In this study, we report, for the first time, the activity of globular GeXIVA[1,3] at G protein-coupled GABAB receptors (GABAB R) inhibiting HVA N-type calcium (Cav2.2) channels and reducing membrane excitability in mouse DRG neurons. The inhibition of HVA Ba2+ currents and neuroexcitability by GeXIVA[1,3] was partially reversed by the selective GABAB R antagonist CGP 55845. In transfected HEK293T cells co-expressing human GABAB R1 and R2 subunits and Cav2.2 channels, both GeXIVA[1,3] and GeXIVA[1,4] inhibited depolarization-activated Ba2+ currents mediated by Cav2.2 channels, whereas GeXIVA[1,2] had no effect. The effects of three cyclized GeXIVA[1,4] ribbon isomers were also tested, with cGeXIVA GAG being the most potent at human GABAB R-coupled Cav2.2 channels. Interestingly, globular GeXIVA[1,3] also reversibly potentiated inwardly-rectifying K+ currents mediated by human GIRK1/2 channels co-expressed with GABAB R in HEK293T cells. This study highlights GABAB R as a potentially important receptor target for the activity of αO-conotoxin GeXIVA to mediate analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arsalan Yousuf
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Xiaosa Wu
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anuja R Bony
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mahsa Sadeghi
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - David J Adams
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
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8
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Olson KM, Traynor JR, Alt A. Allosteric Modulator Leads Hiding in Plain Site: Developing Peptide and Peptidomimetics as GPCR Allosteric Modulators. Front Chem 2021; 9:671483. [PMID: 34692635 PMCID: PMC8529114 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.671483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Allosteric modulators (AMs) of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are desirable drug targets because they can produce fewer on-target side effects, improved selectivity, and better biological specificity (e.g., biased signaling or probe dependence) than orthosteric drugs. An underappreciated source for identifying AM leads are peptides and proteins-many of which were evolutionarily selected as AMs-derived from endogenous protein-protein interactions (e.g., transducer/accessory proteins), intramolecular receptor contacts (e.g., pepducins or extracellular domains), endogenous peptides, and exogenous libraries (e.g., nanobodies or conotoxins). Peptides offer distinct advantages over small molecules, including high affinity, good tolerability, and good bioactivity, and specific disadvantages, including relatively poor metabolic stability and bioavailability. Peptidomimetics are molecules that combine the advantages of both peptides and small molecules by mimicking the peptide's chemical features responsible for bioactivity while improving its druggability. This review 1) discusses sources and strategies to identify peptide/peptidomimetic AMs, 2) overviews strategies to convert a peptide lead into more drug-like "peptidomimetic," and 3) critically analyzes the advantages, disadvantages, and future directions of peptidomimetic AMs. While small molecules will and should play a vital role in AM drug discovery, peptidomimetics can complement and even exceed the advantages of small molecules, depending on the target, site, lead, and associated factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith M. Olson
- Department of Pharmacology and Edward F Domino Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - John R. Traynor
- Department of Pharmacology and Edward F Domino Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Andrew Alt
- Department of Pharmacology and Edward F Domino Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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9
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Bony AR, McArthur JR, Finol-Urdaneta RK, Adams DJ. Analgesic α-conotoxins modulate native and recombinant GIRK1/2 channels via activation of GABA B receptors and reduce neuroexcitability. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:179-198. [PMID: 34599513 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Activation of GIRK channels via G protein-coupled GABAB receptors has been shown to attenuate nociceptive transmission. The analgesic α-conotoxin Vc1.1 activates GABAB receptors resulting in inhibition of Cav 2.2 and Cav 2.3 channels in mammalian primary afferent neurons. Here, we investigated the effects of analgesic α-conotoxins on recombinant and native GIRK-mediated K+ currents and on neuronal excitability. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The effects of analgesic α-conotoxins, Vc1.1, RgIA, and PeIA, were investigated on inwardly-rectifying K+ currents in HEK293T cells recombinantly co-expressing either heteromeric human GIRK1/2 or homomeric GIRK2 subunits, with GABAB receptors. The effects of α-conotoxin Vc1.1 and baclofen were studied on GIRK-mediated K+ currents and the passive and active electrical properties of adult mouse dorsal root ganglion neurons. KEY RESULTS Analgesic α-conotoxins Vc1.1, RgIA, and PeIA potentiate inwardly-rectifying K+ currents in HEK293T cells recombinantly expressing human GIRK1/2 channels and GABAB receptors. GABAB receptor-dependent GIRK channel potentiation by Vc1.1 and baclofen occurs via a pertussis toxin-sensitive G protein and is inhibited by the selective GABAB receptor antagonist CGP 55845. In adult mouse dorsal root ganglion neurons, GABAB receptor-dependent GIRK channel potentiation by Vc1.1 and baclofen hyperpolarizes the cell membrane potential and reduces excitability. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This is the first report of GIRK channel potentiation via allosteric α-conotoxin Vc1.1-GABAB receptor agonism, leading to decreased neuronal excitability. Such action potentially contributes to the analgesic effects of Vc1.1 and baclofen observed in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuja R Bony
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Jeffrey R McArthur
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Rocio K Finol-Urdaneta
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - David J Adams
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
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10
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Zheng N, Christensen SB, Dowell C, Purushottam L, Skalicky JJ, McIntosh JM, Chou DHC. Discovery of Methylene Thioacetal-Incorporated α-RgIA Analogues as Potent and Stable Antagonists of the Human α9α10 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor for the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain. J Med Chem 2021; 64:9513-9524. [PMID: 34161094 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
α9-Containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are key targets for the treatment of neuropathic pain. α-Conotoxin RgIA4 is a peptide antagonist of human α9α10 nAChRs with high selectivity. However, structural rearrangement reveals a potential liability for clinical applications. We herein report our designer RgIA analogues stabilized by methylene thioacetal as nonopioid analgesic agents. We demonstrate that replacing disulfide loop I [CysI-CysIII] with methylene thioacetal in the RgIA skeleton results in activity loss, whereas substitution of loop II [CysII-CysIV] can be accommodated. The lead molecule, RgIA-5524, exhibits highly selective inhibition of α9α10 nAChRs with an IC50 of 0.9 nM and much reduced degradation in human serum. In vivo studies showed that RgIA-5524 relieves chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain in wild type but not α9 knockout mouse models, demonstrating that α9-containing nAChRs are necessary for the therapeutic effects. This work highlights the application of methylene thioacetal as a disulfide surrogate in conotoxin-based, disulfide-rich peptide drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Sean B Christensen
- School of Biological Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Cheryl Dowell
- School of Biological Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Landa Purushottam
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Jack J Skalicky
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - J Michael McIntosh
- School of Biological Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States.,George E. Whalen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Danny Hung-Chieh Chou
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
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11
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Belgi A, Burnley JV, MacRaild CA, Chhabra S, Elnahriry KA, Robinson SD, Gooding SG, Tae HS, Bartels P, Sadeghi M, Zhao FY, Wei H, Spanswick D, Adams DJ, Norton RS, Robinson AJ. Alkyne-Bridged α-Conotoxin Vc1.1 Potently Reverses Mechanical Allodynia in Neuropathic Pain Models. J Med Chem 2021; 64:3222-3233. [PMID: 33724033 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c02151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Several Conus-derived venom peptides are promising lead compounds for the management of neuropathic pain, with α-conotoxins being of particular interest. Modification of the interlocked disulfide framework of α-conotoxin Vc1.1 has been achieved using on-resin alkyne metathesis. Although introduction of a metabolically stable alkyne motif significantly disrupts backbone topography, the structural modification generates a potent and selective GABAB receptor agonist that inhibits Cav2.2 channels and exhibits dose-dependent reversal of mechanical allodynia in a behavioral rat model of neuropathic pain. The findings herein support the hypothesis that analgesia can be achieved via activation of GABABRs expressed in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) sensory neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Belgi
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - James V Burnley
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Christopher A MacRaild
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Sandeep Chhabra
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Khaled A Elnahriry
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Samuel D Robinson
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Simon G Gooding
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Han-Shen Tae
- Illawarra Health & Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia
| | - Peter Bartels
- Illawarra Health & Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia
| | - Mahsa Sadeghi
- Illawarra Health & Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia
| | | | | | - David Spanswick
- NeuroSolutions Ltd., Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and the Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - David J Adams
- Illawarra Health & Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia
| | - Raymond S Norton
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Andrea J Robinson
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
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12
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Li X, Tae HS, Chu Y, Jiang T, Adams DJ, Yu R. Medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and therapeutic potential of α-conotoxins antagonizing the α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 222:107792. [PMID: 33309557 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
α-Conotoxins are disulfide-rich and well-structured peptides, most of which can block nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) with exquisite selectivity and potency. There are various nAChR subtypes, of which the α9α10 nAChR functions as a heteromeric ionotropic receptor in the mammalian cochlea and mediates postsynaptic transmission from the medial olivocochlear. The α9α10 nAChR subtype has also been proposed as a target for the treatment of neuropathic pain and the suppression of breast cancer cell proliferation. Therefore, α-conotoxins targeting the α9α10 nAChR are potentially useful in the development of specific therapeutic drugs and pharmacological tools. Despite dissimilarities in their amino acid sequence and structures, these conopeptides are potent antagonists of the α9α10 nAChR subtype. Consequently, the activity and stability of these peptides have been subjected to chemical modifications. The resulting synthetic analogues have not only functioned as molecular probes to explore ligand binding sites of the α9α10 nAChR, but also have the potential to become candidates for drug development. From the perspectives of medicinal chemistry and pharmacology, we highlight the structure and function of the α9α10 nAChR and review studies of α-conotoxins targeting it, including their three-dimensional structures, structure optimization strategies, and binding modes at the α9α10 nAChR, as well as their therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Han-Shen Tae
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia
| | - Yanyan Chu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266003, China; Innovation Platform of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong 266100, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - David J Adams
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia.
| | - Rilei Yu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266003, China; Innovation Platform of Marine Drug Screening & Evaluation, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong 266100, China.
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Safronova VG, Vulfius CA, Astashev ME, Tikhonova IV, Serov DA, Jirova EA, Pershina EV, Senko DA, Zhmak MN, Kasheverov IE, Tsetlin VI. α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors regulate murine bone marrow granulocyte functions. Immunobiology 2020; 226:152047. [PMID: 33340828 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2020.152047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Polymorphonuclear neutrophilic granulocytes (PMNs) are extremely important in defense of the organism against infections and in inflammatory processes including neuroinflammation and pain sensation. Different subtypes of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are involved in modulation of PMN activities. Earlier we determined expression of α2-7, α9, β3, β4 subunits and regulatory role of α7 and α3β2 nAChR subtypes in functions of inflammatory PMNs. Other authors detected mRNA of α9 subunit in bone marrow neutrophils (BM-PMNs). Murine BM-PMNs coming out from the bone marrow, where they develop, to blood were characterized as mature. There was no data for α10 and for the presence of functionally active α9α10 nAChRs in BM-PMNs. Here we detected for the first time mRNA expression of the α10 nAChR subunit in BM-PMNs and confirmed the expression of mRNA for α9 nAChR. With the help of α-conotoxins RgIA and Vc1.1, highly selective antagonists of α9α10 nAChRs, we have revealed participation of α9 and/or α9α10 nAChRs in regulation of cytosolic Ca2+ concentration, cell adhesion, and in generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Nicotine, choline, RgIA, and Vc1.1 induced Ca2+ transients in BM-PMNs, enhanced cell adhesiveness and decreased production of ROS indicating involvement of α9, possibly co-assembled with α10, nAChRs in the BM-PMN activity for recruitment and cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina G Safronova
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya St., 3, 142290 Pushchino, Russia.
| | - Catherine A Vulfius
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya St., 3, 142290 Pushchino, Russia.
| | - Maxim E Astashev
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya St., 3, 142290 Pushchino, Russia.
| | - Irina V Tikhonova
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya St., 3, 142290 Pushchino, Russia.
| | - Dmitriy A Serov
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya St., 3, 142290 Pushchino, Russia.
| | - Elina A Jirova
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya St., 3, 142290 Pushchino, Russia.
| | - Ekaterina V Pershina
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya St., 3, 142290 Pushchino, Russia.
| | - Dmitry A Senko
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Miklukho-Maklaya St., 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia; Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Maxim N Zhmak
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Miklukho-Maklaya St., 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Igor E Kasheverov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Miklukho-Maklaya St., 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Victor I Tsetlin
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Miklukho-Maklaya St., 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia.
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14
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Huynh PN, Harvey PJ, Gajewiak J, Craik DJ, Michael McIntosh J. Critical residue properties for potency and selectivity of α-Conotoxin RgIA towards α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 181:114124. [PMID: 32593612 PMCID: PMC7572646 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) has been characterized as an effective anti-pain target that functions through a non-opioid mechanism. However, as a pentameric ion channel comprised of two different subunits, the specific targeting of α9α10 nAChRs has proven challenging. Previously the 13-amino-acid peptide, RgIA, was shown to block α9α10 nAChRs with high potency and specificity. This peptide, characterized from the venom of the carnivorous marine snail, Conus regius, produced analgesia in several rodent models of chronic pain. Despite promising pre-clinical data in behavioral assays, the number of specific α9α10 nAChR antagonists remains small and the physiological mechanisms of analgesia remain cryptic. In this study, we implement amino-acid substitutions to definitively characterize the chemical properties of RgIA that contribute to its activity against α9α10 nAChRs. Using this mutational approach, we determined the vital role of biochemical side-chain properties and amino acids in the second loop that are amenable to substitutions to further engineer next-generation analogs for the blockade of α9α10 nAChRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter N Huynh
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.
| | - Peta J Harvey
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Joanna Gajewiak
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - J Michael McIntosh
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; George E. Whalen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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15
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α-Conotoxin as Potential to α7-nAChR Recombinant Expressed in Escherichia coli. Mar Drugs 2020; 18:md18080422. [PMID: 32806654 PMCID: PMC7460214 DOI: 10.3390/md18080422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) is an important nicotinic acetylcholine receptors subtype and closely associated with cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and schizophrenia disease. The mutant ArIB (V11L, V16A) of α-conotoxin ArIB with 17-amino acid residues specifically targets α7 nAChR with no obvious effect on other nAChR subtypes. In the study, the synthetic gene encoding mature peptide of ArIB and mutant ArIB (V11L, V16A) carried a fusion protein Trx and 6 × His-tag was separately inserted in pET-32a (+) vector and transformed into Escherichia coli strain BL21(DE3) pLysS for expression. The expressions of Trx-ArIB-His6 and Trx-ArIB (V11L, V16A)-His6 were soluble in Escherichia coli, which were purified by Ni-NTA affinity chromatography column and cleaved by enterokinase to release rArIB and rArIB (V11L, V16A). Then, rArIB and rArIB (V11L, V16A) were purified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Bioactivity of rArIB and rArIB (V11L, V16A) was assessed by two-electrode voltage-clamp electrophysiology in Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing human nAChR subtypes. The results indicated that the yield of the fusion proteins was approximately 50 mg/L and rArIB (V11L, V16A) antagonized the α7 nAChR subtype selectively with 8-nM IC50. In summary, this study provides an efficient method to biosynthesize α-conotoxin ArIB and rArIB (V11L, V16A) in Escherichia coli, which could be economical to obtain massively bioactive disulfide-rich polypeptides at fast speed.
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Targeting the CaVα-CaVβ interaction yields an antagonist of the N-type CaV2.2 channel with broad antinociceptive efficacy. Pain 2020; 160:1644-1661. [PMID: 30933958 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of voltage-gated calcium (CaV) channels is a potential therapy for many neurological diseases including chronic pain. Neuronal CaV1/CaV2 channels are composed of α, β, γ and α2δ subunits. The β subunits of CaV channels are cytoplasmic proteins that increase the surface expression of the pore-forming α subunit of CaV. We targeted the high-affinity protein-protein interface of CaVβ's pocket within the CaVα subunit. Structure-based virtual screening of 50,000 small molecule library docked to the β subunit led to the identification of 2-(3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl)-N-((4-((3-phenylpropyl)amino)quinazolin-2-yl)methyl)acetamide (IPPQ). This small molecule bound to CaVβ and inhibited its coupling with N-type voltage-gated calcium (CaV2.2) channels, leading to a reduction in CaV2.2 currents in rat dorsal root ganglion sensory neurons, decreased presynaptic localization of CaV2.2 in vivo, decreased frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic potentials and miniature excitatory postsynaptic potentials, and inhibited release of the nociceptive neurotransmitter calcitonin gene-related peptide from spinal cord. IPPQ did not target opioid receptors nor did it engage inhibitory G protein-coupled receptor signaling. IPPQ was antinociceptive in naive animals and reversed allodynia and hyperalgesia in models of acute (postsurgical) and neuropathic (spinal nerve ligation, chemotherapy- and gp120-induced peripheral neuropathy, and genome-edited neuropathy) pain. IPPQ did not cause akinesia or motor impairment, a common adverse effect of CaV2.2 targeting drugs, when injected into the brain. IPPQ, a quinazoline analog, represents a novel class of CaV2.2-targeting compounds that may serve as probes to interrogate CaVα-CaVβ function and ultimately be developed as a nonopioid therapeutic for chronic pain.
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17
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RgIA4 Accelerates Recovery from Paclitaxel-Induced Neuropathic Pain in Rats. Mar Drugs 2019; 18:md18010012. [PMID: 31877728 PMCID: PMC7024385 DOI: 10.3390/md18010012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapeutic drugs are widely utilized in the treatment of human cancers. Painful chemotherapy-induced neuropathy is a common, debilitating, and dose-limiting side effect for which there is currently no effective treatment. Previous studies have demonstrated the potential utility of peptides from the marine snail from the genus Conus for the treatment of neuropathic pain. α-Conotoxin RgIA and a potent analog, RgIA4, have previously been shown to prevent the development of neuropathy resulting from the administration of oxaliplatin, a platinum-based antineoplastic drug. Here, we have examined its efficacy against paclitaxel, a chemotherapeutic drug that works by a mechanism of action distinct from that of oxaliplatin. Paclitaxel was administered at 2 mg/kg (intraperitoneally (IP)) every other day for a total of 8 mg/kg. Sprague Dawley rats that were co-administered RgIA4 at 80 µg/kg (subcutaneously (SC)) once daily, five times per week, for three weeks showed significant recovery from mechanical allodynia by day 31. Notably, the therapeutic effects reached significance 12 days after the last administration of RgIA4, which is suggestive of a rescue mechanism. These findings support the effects of RgIA4 in multiple chemotherapeutic models and the investigation of α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) as a non-opioid target in the treatment of chronic pain.
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18
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Pérez de Vega MJ, Ferrer-Montiel A, González-Muñiz R. Recent progress in non-opioid analgesic peptides. Arch Biochem Biophys 2018; 660:36-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2018.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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19
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Cai F, Xu N, Liu Z, Ding R, Yu S, Dong M, Wang S, Shen J, Tae HS, Adams DJ, Zhang X, Dai Q. Targeting of N-Type Calcium Channels via GABAB-Receptor Activation by α-Conotoxin Vc1.1 Variants Displaying Improved Analgesic Activity. J Med Chem 2018; 61:10198-10205. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fengtao Cai
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Ning Xu
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Zhuguo Liu
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Rong Ding
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Shuo Yu
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Mingxin Dong
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Jintao Shen
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Han-Shen Tae
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - David J. Adams
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Xuerong Zhang
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Qiuyun Dai
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China
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20
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Burke KJ, Keeshen CM, Bender KJ. Two Forms of Synaptic Depression Produced by Differential Neuromodulation of Presynaptic Calcium Channels. Neuron 2018; 99:969-984.e7. [PMID: 30122380 PMCID: PMC7874512 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2018.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Neuromodulators are important regulators of synaptic transmission throughout the brain. At the presynaptic terminal, neuromodulation of calcium channels (CaVs) can affect transmission not only by changing neurotransmitter release probability, but also by shaping short-term plasticity (STP). Indeed, changes in STP are often considered a requirement for defining a presynaptic site of action. Nevertheless, some synapses exhibit non-canonical forms of neuromodulation, where release probability is altered without a corresponding change in STP. Here, we identify biophysical mechanisms whereby both canonical and non-canonical presynaptic neuromodulation can occur at the same synapse. At a subset of glutamatergic terminals in prefrontal cortex, GABAB and D1/D5 dopamine receptors suppress release probability with and without canonical increases in short-term facilitation by modulating different aspects of presynaptic CaV function. These findings establish a framework whereby signaling from multiple neuromodulators can converge on presynaptic CaVs to differentially tune release dynamics at the same synapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth J Burke
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Caroline M Keeshen
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kevin J Bender
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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21
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Li Y, Liu Y, Fan J, Zhou Q, Song X, Peng Z, Qin Z, Tao T. Validation and bioinformatic analysis of propofol-induced differentially expressed microRNAs in primary cultured neural stem cells. Gene 2018; 664:90-100. [PMID: 29679758 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.04.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Propofol, a widely used intravenous anesthetic, was previously considered as a neuroprotective agent. Recently, however, accumulating evidence suggests that it may cause neurotoxicity, especially in the development of neural stem cells (NSCs). The potential mechanisms contributing to propofol-induced neurotoxicity during neurogenesis, such as those involving microRNAs (miRNAs), are still unknown. In this study, a total of 27 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in our initial screen and 6 miRNAs were validated by qRT-PCR. Three miRNAs were up-regulated (miR-377-5p, miR-194-3p and miR-143-5p), and three were down-regulated (miR-3583-3p, miR-466b-5p and miR-410-5p). Following gene ontology and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, Gabbr1, Canca1b and Gabbr2, which are enriched in the GABAergic synapse pathway, were selected as genes potentially playing a role in propofol-induced neurotoxicity. Gabbr1 and Cacna1b, which are targeted by miRNAs that are up-regulated following propofol exposure, showed decreased expression at the mRNA and protein levels. Gabbr2, targeted by miRNAs that were down-regulated following treatment with propofol, was up-regulated at both the levels of mRNA and protein expression. The two clusters of miRNAs that show differential expression following propofol exposure may act in a synergistic manner to regulate several genes simultaneously during the development of NSCs. Our results may contribute to clarify the molecular mechanism and provide potential therapeutic targets for propofol induced neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Youtan Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jun Fan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Quan Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiuling Song
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyong Peng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zaisheng Qin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Tao Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Hamad MK, He K, Abdulrazeq HF, Mustafa AM, Luceri R, Kamal N, Ali M, Nakhla J, Herzallah MM, Mammis A. Potential Uses of Isolated Toxin Peptides in Neuropathic Pain Relief: A Literature Review. World Neurosurg 2018; 113:333-347.e5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2018.01.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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23
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Chen J, Liang L, Ning H, Cai F, Liu Z, Zhang L, Zhou L, Dai Q. Cloning, Synthesis and Functional Characterization of a Novel α-Conotoxin Lt1.3. Mar Drugs 2018; 16:md16040112. [PMID: 29614714 PMCID: PMC5923399 DOI: 10.3390/md16040112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
α-Conotoxins (α-CTxs) are small peptides composed of 11 to 20 amino acid residues with two disulfide bridges. Most of them potently and selectively target nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subtypes, and a few were found to inhibit the GABAB receptor (GABABR)-coupled N-type calcium channels (Cav2.2). However, in all of α-CTxs targeting both receptors, the disulfide connectivity arrangement "C¹-C³, C²-C⁴" is present. In this work, a novel α4/7-CTx named Lt1.3 (GCCSHPACSGNNPYFC-NH₂) was cloned from the venom ducts of Conus litteratus (C. litteratus) in the South China Sea. Lt1.3 was then chemically synthesized and two isomers with disulfide bridges "C¹-C³, C²-C⁴" and "C¹-C⁴, C²-C³" were found and functionally characterized. Electrophysiological experiments showed that Lt1.3 containing the common disulfide bridges "C¹-C³, C²-C⁴" potently and selectively inhibited α3β2 nAChRs and not GABABR-coupled Cav2.2. Surprisingly, but the isomer with the disulfide bridges "C¹-C⁴, C²-C³" showed exactly the opposite inhibitory activity, inhibiting only GABABR-coupled Cav2.2 and not α3β2 nAChRs. These findings expand the knowledge of the targets and selectivity of α-CTxs and provide a new structural motif to inhibit the GABABR-coupled Cav2.2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinqin Chen
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China.
- Institute of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 236041, China.
| | - Li Liang
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China.
| | - Huying Ning
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China.
| | - Fengtao Cai
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China.
| | - Zhuguo Liu
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China.
| | - Longxiao Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China.
| | - Liangyi Zhou
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China.
| | - Qiuyun Dai
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing 100071, China.
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24
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Castro J, Grundy L, Deiteren A, Harrington AM, O'Donnell T, Maddern J, Moore J, Garcia-Caraballo S, Rychkov GY, Yu R, Kaas Q, Craik DJ, Adams DJ, Brierley SM. Cyclic analogues of α-conotoxin Vc1.1 inhibit colonic nociceptors and provide analgesia in a mouse model of chronic abdominal pain. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:2384-2398. [PMID: 29194563 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Patients with irritable bowel syndrome suffer from chronic visceral pain (CVP) and limited analgesic therapeutic options are currently available. We have shown that α-conotoxin Vc1.1 induced activation of GABAB receptors on the peripheral endings of colonic afferents and reduced nociceptive signalling from the viscera. However, the analgesic efficacy of more stable, cyclized versions of Vc1.1 on CVP remains to be determined. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Using ex vivo colonic afferent preparations from mice, we determined the inhibitory actions of cyclized Vc1.1 (cVc1.1) and two cVc1.1 analogues on mouse colonic nociceptors in healthy and chronic visceral hypersensitivity (CVH) states. Using whole-cell patch clamp recordings, we also assessed the inhibitory actions of these peptides on the neuronal excitability of colonic innervating dorsal root ganglion neurons. In vivo, the analgesic efficacy of these analogues was assessed by determining the visceromotor response to colorectal distension in healthy and CVH mice. KEY RESULTS cVc1.1 and the cVc1.1 analogues, [C2H,C8F]cVc1.1 and [N9W]cVc1.1, all caused concentration-dependent inhibition of colonic nociceptors from healthy mice. Inhibition by these peptides was greater than those evoked by linear Vc1.1 and was substantially greater in colonic nociceptors from CVH mice. cVc1.1 also reduced excitability of colonic dorsal root ganglion neurons, with greater effect in CVH neurons. CVH mice treated with cVc1.1 intra-colonically displayed reduced pain responses to noxious colorectal distension compared with vehicle-treated CVH mice. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Cyclic versions of Vc1.1 evoked significant anti-nociceptive actions in CVH states, suggesting that they could be novel candidates for treatment of CVP. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Recent Advances in Targeting Ion Channels to Treat Chronic Pain. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.12/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Castro
- Visceral Pain Research Group, Human Physiology, Centre for Neuroscience, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia.,Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Luke Grundy
- Visceral Pain Research Group, Human Physiology, Centre for Neuroscience, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia.,Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Annemie Deiteren
- Visceral Pain Research Group, Human Physiology, Centre for Neuroscience, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia.,Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Andrea M Harrington
- Visceral Pain Research Group, Human Physiology, Centre for Neuroscience, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia.,Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Tracey O'Donnell
- Visceral Pain Research Group, Human Physiology, Centre for Neuroscience, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia.,Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Jessica Maddern
- Visceral Pain Research Group, Human Physiology, Centre for Neuroscience, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia.,Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Jessi Moore
- Visceral Pain Research Group, Human Physiology, Centre for Neuroscience, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia.,Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Sonia Garcia-Caraballo
- Visceral Pain Research Group, Human Physiology, Centre for Neuroscience, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia.,Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Grigori Y Rychkov
- Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Rilei Yu
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Quentin Kaas
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - David J Adams
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Stuart M Brierley
- Visceral Pain Research Group, Human Physiology, Centre for Neuroscience, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia.,Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Discipline of Medicine, University of Adelaide, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
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25
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Zhangsun D, Zhu X, Kaas Q, Wu Y, Craik DJ, McIntosh JM, Luo S. αO-Conotoxin GeXIVA disulfide bond isomers exhibit differential sensitivity for various nicotinic acetylcholine receptors but retain potency and selectivity for the human α9α10 subtype. Neuropharmacology 2017; 127:243-252. [PMID: 28416445 PMCID: PMC6029978 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2017] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subtypes exhibit distinct neuropharmacological properties that are involved in a range of neuropathological conditions, including pain, addiction, epilepsy, autism, schizophrenia, Tourette's syndrome, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, as well as many types of cancer. The α9α10 nAChR is a potential target in chronic pain, wound healing, the pathophysiology of the auditory system, and breast and lung cancers. αO-conotoxin GeXIVA is a potent antagonist of rat α9α10 nAChRs, with the 'bead' disulfide bond isomer displaying the lowest IC50 of the three possible isomers. In the rat chronic constriction injury model of neuropathic pain, this isomer reduced mechanical hyperalgesia without affecting motor performance. Here, we report the effects of the three disulfide bond isomers of GeXIVA on human α9α10 nAChRs, other human nAChR subtypes, various rat nAChR subtypes, and 10 rat α9α10 nAChR mutants. The three isomers displayed only ∼5-fold difference in potency on the human vs rat α9α10 receptors and had similar affinities at wild-type rat α9α10 nAChRs and all 10 α9α10 receptor mutants. From these findings, the binding site and mechanism of action of GeXIVA on rat and human α9α10 nAChR was deduced to be different from that of other conotoxins targeting this nAChR subtype. GeXIVA is therefore a unique ligand that might prove useful for further probing of binding sites on the α9α10 nAChR. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Venom-derived Peptides as Pharmacological Tools.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongting Zhangsun
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Marine Drug of Haikou, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228 China
| | - Xiaopeng Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Marine Drug of Haikou, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228 China
| | - Quentin Kaas
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Yong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Marine Drug of Haikou, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228 China
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072 Australia
| | - J Michael McIntosh
- Department of Biology and Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Sulan Luo
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory for Marine Drug of Haikou, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, 570228 China.
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26
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G-Protein Coupled Receptors Targeted by Analgesic Venom Peptides. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 9:toxins9110372. [PMID: 29144441 PMCID: PMC5705987 DOI: 10.3390/toxins9110372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a complex and debilitating condition associated with a large personal and socioeconomic burden. Current pharmacological approaches to treating chronic pain such as opioids, antidepressants and anticonvulsants exhibit limited efficacy in many patients and are associated with dose-limiting side effects that hinder their clinical use. Therefore, improved strategies for the pharmacological treatment of pathological pain are urgently needed. G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are ubiquitously expressed on the surface of cells and act to transduce extracellular signals and regulate physiological processes. In the context of pain, numerous and diverse families of GPCRs expressed in pain pathways regulate most aspects of physiological and pathological pain and are thus implicated as potential targets for therapy of chronic pain. In the search for novel compounds that produce analgesia via GPCR modulation, animal venoms offer an enormous and virtually untapped source of potent and selective peptide molecules. While many venom peptides target voltage-gated and ligand-gated ion channels to inhibit neuronal excitability and blunt synaptic transmission of pain signals, only a small proportion are known to interact with GPCRs. Of these, only a few have shown analgesic potential in vivo. Here we review the current state of knowledge regarding venom peptides that target GPCRs to produce analgesia, and their development as therapeutic compounds.
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27
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Hone AJ, Servent D, McIntosh JM. α9-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and the modulation of pain. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 175:1915-1927. [PMID: 28662295 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Revised: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a complex and debilitating syndrome for which there are few effective pharmacological treatments. Opioid-based medications are initially effective for acute pain, but tolerance to their analgesic effects quickly develops, and long-term use often leads to physical dependence and addiction. Furthermore, neuropathic pain is generally resistant to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Other classes of medications including antidepressants, antiepileptics and voltage-gated calcium channel inhibitors are only partially effective in most patients, may be associated with significant side effects and have few disease-modifying effects on the underlying pathology. Medications that act through new mechanisms of action, and particularly ones that have disease-modifying properties, would be highly desirable. In the last decade, a potential new target for the treatment of neuropathic pain has emerged: the α9-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR). Recent studies indicate that antagonists of α9-containing nAChRs are analgesic in animal models of neuropathic pain. These nerve injury models include chronic constriction injury, partial sciatic nerve ligation, streptozotocin-induced diabetic neuropathy and chemotherapeutic-induced neuropathy. This review details the history and state of the field regarding the role that α9-containing nAChRs may play in neuropathic pain. An alternative hypothesis that α-conotoxins exert their therapeutic effect through blocking N-type calcium channels via activation of GABAB receptors is also reviewed. Understanding how antagonists of α9-containing nAChRs exert their therapeutic effects may ultimately result in the development of medications that not only treat but also prevent the development of neuropathic pain states. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.11/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arik J Hone
- Department of Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Denis Servent
- Service d'Ingénierie Moléculaire des Protéines (SIMOPRO), IBITECS, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - J Michael McIntosh
- Department of Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,George E. Whalen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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28
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Christensen SB, Hone AJ, Roux I, Kniazeff J, Pin JP, Upert G, Servent D, Glowatzki E, McIntosh JM. RgIA4 Potently Blocks Mouse α9α10 nAChRs and Provides Long Lasting Protection against Oxaliplatin-Induced Cold Allodynia. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:219. [PMID: 28785206 PMCID: PMC5519620 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcripts for α9 and α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subunits are found in diverse tissues. The function of α9α10 nAChRs is best known in mechanosensory cochlear hair cells, but elsewhere their roles are less well-understood. α9α10 nAChRs have been implicated as analgesic targets and α-conotoxins that block α9α10 nAChRs produce analgesia. However, some of these peptides show large potency differences between species. Additionally several studies have indicated that these conotoxins may also activate GABAB receptors (GABABRs). To further address these issues, we cloned the cDNAs of mouse α9 and α10 nAChR subunits. When heterologously expressed in Xenopus oocytes, the resulting α9α10 nAChRs had the expected pharmacology of being activated by acetylcholine and choline but not by nicotine. A conotoxin analog, RgIA4, potently, and selectively blocked mouse α9α10 nAChRs with low nanomolar affinity indicating that RgIA4 may be effectively used to study murine α9α10 nAChR function. Previous reports indicated that RgIA4 attenuates chemotherapy-induced cold allodynia. Here we demonstrate that RgIA4 analgesic effects following oxaliplatin treatment are sustained for 21 days after last RgIA4 administration indicating that RgIA4 may provide enduring protection against nerve damage. RgIA4 lacks activity at GABAB receptors; a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer assay was used to demonstrate that two other analgesic α-conotoxins, Vc1.1 and AuIB, also do not activate GABABRs expressed in HEK cells. Together these findings further support the targeting of α9α10 nAChRs in the treatment of pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean B Christensen
- Department of Biology, University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Arik J Hone
- Department of Biology, University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Isabelle Roux
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Center for Hearing and Balance and the Center for Sensory Biology, The Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimore, MD, United States
| | - Julie Kniazeff
- IGF, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université MontpellierMontpellier, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Pin
- IGF, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université MontpellierMontpellier, France
| | - Grégory Upert
- Service d'Ingénierie Moléculaire des Protéines, CEA, Université Paris-SaclayGif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Denis Servent
- Service d'Ingénierie Moléculaire des Protéines, CEA, Université Paris-SaclayGif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Elisabeth Glowatzki
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Center for Hearing and Balance and the Center for Sensory Biology, The Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimore, MD, United States
| | - J Michael McIntosh
- Department of Biology, University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT, United States.,George E. Whalen Veterans Affairs Medical CenterSalt Lake City, UT, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT, United States
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29
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Sadeghi M, McArthur JR, Finol-Urdaneta RK, Adams DJ. Analgesic conopeptides targeting G protein-coupled receptors reduce excitability of sensory neurons. Neuropharmacology 2017; 127:116-123. [PMID: 28533165 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Conotoxins (conopeptides) are a diverse group of peptides isolated from the venom of marine cone snails. Conus peptides modulate pain by interacting with voltage-gated ion channels and G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Opiate drugs targeting GPCRs have long been used, nonetheless, many undesirable side effects associated with opiates have been observed including addiction. Consequently, alternative avenues to pain management are a largely unmet need. It has been shown that various voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) respond to GPCR modulation. Thus, regulation of VGCCs by GPCRs has become a valuable alternative in the management of pain. In this review, we focus on analgesic conotoxins that exert their effects via GPCR-mediated inhibition of ion channels involved in nociception and pain transmission. Specifically, α-conotoxin Vc1.1 activation of GABAB receptors and inhibition of voltage-gated calcium channels as a novel mechanism for reducing the excitability of dorsal root ganglion neurons is described. Vc1.1 and other α-conotoxins have been shown to be analgesic in different animal models of chronic pain. This review will outline the functional effects of conopeptide modulation of GPCRs and how their signalling is translated to downstream components of the pain pathways. Where available we present the proposed signalling mechanisms that couples metabotropic receptor activation to their downstream effectors to produce analgesia. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Venom-derived Peptides as Pharmacological Tools.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Sadeghi
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, 2522, Australia
| | - Jeffrey R McArthur
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, 2522, Australia
| | - Rocio K Finol-Urdaneta
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, 2522, Australia
| | - David J Adams
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, 2522, Australia.
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30
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Inhibition of α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors prevents chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:E1825-E1832. [PMID: 28223528 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1621433114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Opioids are first-line drugs for moderate to severe acute pain and cancer pain. However, these medications are associated with severe side effects, and whether they are efficacious in treatment of chronic nonmalignant pain remains controversial. Medications that act through alternative molecular mechanisms are critically needed. Antagonists of α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) have been proposed as an important nonopioid mechanism based on studies demonstrating prevention of neuropathology after trauma-induced nerve injury. However, the key α9α10 ligands characterized to date are at least two orders of magnitude less potent on human vs. rodent nAChRs, limiting their translational application. Furthermore, an alternative proposal that these ligands achieve their beneficial effects by acting as agonists of GABAB receptors has caused confusion over whether blockade of α9α10 nAChRs is the fundamental underlying mechanism. To address these issues definitively, we developed RgIA4, a peptide that exhibits high potency for both human and rodent α9α10 nAChRs, and was at least 1,000-fold more selective for α9α10 nAChRs vs. all other molecular targets tested, including opioid and GABAB receptors. A daily s.c. dose of RgIA4 prevented chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain in rats. In wild-type mice, oxaliplatin treatment produced cold allodynia that could be prevented by RgIA4. Additionally, in α9 KO mice, chemotherapy-induced development of cold allodynia was attenuated and the milder, temporary cold allodynia was not relieved by RgIA4. These findings establish blockade of α9-containing nAChRs as the basis for the efficacy of RgIA4, and that α9-containing nAChRs are a critical target for prevention of chronic cancer chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain.
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31
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Molecular Engineering of Conus Peptides as Therapeutic Leads. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 1030:229-254. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-66095-0_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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32
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Bourinet E, Zamponi GW. Block of voltage-gated calcium channels by peptide toxins. Neuropharmacology 2016; 127:109-115. [PMID: 27756538 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Revised: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Venoms from various predatory species, such as fish hunting molluscs scorpions, snakes and arachnids contain a large spectrum of toxins that include blockers of voltage-gated calcium channels. These peptide blockers act by two principal manners - physical occlusion of the pore and prevention of activation gating. Many of the calcium channel-blocking peptides have evolved to tightly occupy their binding pocket on the principal pore forming subunit of the channel, often rendering block poorly reversible. Moreover, several of the best characterized blocking peptides have developed a high degree of channel subtype selectivity. Here we give an overview of different types of calcium channel-blocking toxins, their mechanism of action, channel subtype specificity, and potential use as therapeutic agents. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Venom-derived Peptides as Pharmacological Tools.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Bourinet
- Institute for Functional Genomics, CNRS UMR5203, INSERM U1191, University of Montpellier, LABEX ICST, Montpellier, France
| | - Gerald W Zamponi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
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33
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Carstens BB, Berecki G, Daniel JT, Lee HS, Jackson KAV, Tae H, Sadeghi M, Castro J, O'Donnell T, Deiteren A, Brierley SM, Craik DJ, Adams DJ, Clark RJ. Structure–Activity Studies of Cysteine‐Rich α‐Conotoxins that Inhibit High‐Voltage‐Activated Calcium Channels via GABA
B
Receptor Activation Reveal a Minimal Functional Motif. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201600297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bodil B. Carstens
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences The University of Queensland Brisbane Qld 4072 Australia
| | - Géza Berecki
- Health Innovations Research Institute RMIT University Melbourne Vic 3083 Australia
| | - James T. Daniel
- School of Biomedical Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Qld 4072 Australia
| | - Han Siean Lee
- School of Biomedical Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Qld 4072 Australia
| | - Kathryn A. V. Jackson
- School of Biomedical Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Qld 4072 Australia
| | - Han‐Shen Tae
- Health Innovations Research Institute RMIT University Melbourne Vic 3083 Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI) University of Wollongong Wollongong NSW 2522 Australia
| | - Mahsa Sadeghi
- Health Innovations Research Institute RMIT University Melbourne Vic 3083 Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI) University of Wollongong Wollongong NSW 2522 Australia
| | - Joel Castro
- Visceral Pain Group, Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases Discipline of Medicine The University of Adelaide South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
| | - Tracy O'Donnell
- Visceral Pain Group, Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases Discipline of Medicine The University of Adelaide South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
| | - Annemie Deiteren
- Visceral Pain Group, Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases Discipline of Medicine The University of Adelaide South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
| | - Stuart M. Brierley
- Visceral Pain Group, Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases Discipline of Medicine The University of Adelaide South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences The University of Queensland Brisbane Qld 4072 Australia
| | - David J. Adams
- Health Innovations Research Institute RMIT University Melbourne Vic 3083 Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI) University of Wollongong Wollongong NSW 2522 Australia
| | - Richard J. Clark
- School of Biomedical Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Qld 4072 Australia
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34
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Carstens BB, Berecki G, Daniel JT, Lee HS, Jackson KAV, Tae H, Sadeghi M, Castro J, O'Donnell T, Deiteren A, Brierley SM, Craik DJ, Adams DJ, Clark RJ. Structure–Activity Studies of Cysteine‐Rich α‐Conotoxins that Inhibit High‐Voltage‐Activated Calcium Channels via GABA
B
Receptor Activation Reveal a Minimal Functional Motif. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016; 55:4692-6. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201600297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Bodil B. Carstens
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences The University of Queensland Brisbane Qld 4072 Australia
| | - Géza Berecki
- Health Innovations Research Institute RMIT University Melbourne Vic 3083 Australia
| | - James T. Daniel
- School of Biomedical Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Qld 4072 Australia
| | - Han Siean Lee
- School of Biomedical Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Qld 4072 Australia
| | - Kathryn A. V. Jackson
- School of Biomedical Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Qld 4072 Australia
| | - Han‐Shen Tae
- Health Innovations Research Institute RMIT University Melbourne Vic 3083 Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI) University of Wollongong Wollongong NSW 2522 Australia
| | - Mahsa Sadeghi
- Health Innovations Research Institute RMIT University Melbourne Vic 3083 Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI) University of Wollongong Wollongong NSW 2522 Australia
| | - Joel Castro
- Visceral Pain Group, Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases Discipline of Medicine The University of Adelaide South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
| | - Tracy O'Donnell
- Visceral Pain Group, Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases Discipline of Medicine The University of Adelaide South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
| | - Annemie Deiteren
- Visceral Pain Group, Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases Discipline of Medicine The University of Adelaide South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
| | - Stuart M. Brierley
- Visceral Pain Group, Centre for Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Diseases Discipline of Medicine The University of Adelaide South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences The University of Queensland Brisbane Qld 4072 Australia
| | - David J. Adams
- Health Innovations Research Institute RMIT University Melbourne Vic 3083 Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI) University of Wollongong Wollongong NSW 2522 Australia
| | - Richard J. Clark
- School of Biomedical Science The University of Queensland Brisbane Qld 4072 Australia
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Modular composition and dynamics of native GABAB receptors identified by high-resolution proteomics. Nat Neurosci 2015; 19:233-42. [PMID: 26691831 DOI: 10.1038/nn.4198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
GABAB receptors, the most abundant inhibitory G protein-coupled receptors in the mammalian brain, display pronounced diversity in functional properties, cellular signaling and subcellular distribution. We used high-resolution functional proteomics to identify the building blocks of these receptors in the rodent brain. Our analyses revealed that native GABAB receptors are macromolecular complexes with defined architecture, but marked diversity in subunit composition: the receptor core is assembled from GABAB1a/b, GABAB2, four KCTD proteins and a distinct set of G-protein subunits, whereas the receptor's periphery is mostly formed by transmembrane proteins of different classes. In particular, the periphery-forming constituents include signaling effectors, such as Cav2 and HCN channels, and the proteins AJAP1 and amyloid-β A4, both of which tightly associate with the sushi domains of GABAB1a. Our results unravel the molecular diversity of GABAB receptors and their postnatal assembly dynamics and provide a roadmap for studying the cellular signaling of this inhibitory neurotransmitter receptor.
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Cloning, synthesis, and characterization of αO-conotoxin GeXIVA, a potent α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:E4026-35. [PMID: 26170295 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1503617112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We identified a previously unidentified conotoxin gene from Conus generalis whose precursor signal sequence has high similarity to the O1-gene conotoxin superfamily. The predicted mature peptide, αO-conotoxin GeXIVA (GeXIVA), has four Cys residues, and its three disulfide isomers were synthesized. Previously pharmacologically characterized O1-superfamily peptides, exemplified by the US Food and Drug Administration-approved pain medication, ziconotide, contain six Cys residues and are calcium, sodium, or potassium channel antagonists. However, GeXIVA did not inhibit calcium channels but antagonized nicotinic AChRs (nAChRs), most potently on the α9α10 nAChR subtype (IC50 = 4.6 nM). Toxin blockade was voltage-dependent, and kinetic analysis of toxin dissociation indicated that the binding site of GeXIVA does not overlap with the binding site of the competitive antagonist α-conotoxin RgIA. Surprisingly, the most active disulfide isomer of GeXIVA is the bead isomer, comprising, according to NMR analysis, two well-resolved but uncoupled disulfide-restrained loops. The ribbon isomer is almost as potent but has a more rigid structure built around a short 310-helix. In contrast to most α-conotoxins, the globular isomer is the least potent and has a flexible, multiconformational nature. GeXIVA reduced mechanical hyperalgesia in the rat chronic constriction injury model of neuropathic pain but had no effect on motor performance, warranting its further investigation as a possible therapeutic agent.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Conotoxins are a large family of bioactive peptides derived from cone snail venom. They target specific classes of ion channels and other membrane proteins and may have therapeutic value, primarily in the management of pain. AREAS COVERED The authors surveyed the US patent literature covering conotoxins, and their potential therapeutic applications. They describe the various subclasses of conotoxins that are the subject of current patent applications and their therapeutic indications. Limitations that may preclude broader application of these molecules are discussed and strategies for overcoming these limitations are presented. EXPERT OPINION Despite more than 25 years of intense global conotoxin research, only one molecule has successfully reached the market. Several other conotoxin-derived candidates failed in clinical trials, indicating that 'from the bench into the clinic' translation has been more difficult than originally anticipated. Nevertheless, we are optimistic that the potent activities of these molecules and the potential for improving their biopharmaceutical properties may lead to next-generation drug candidates with favorable pharmacological properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Durek
- a The University of Queensland, Institute for Molecular Bioscience , Brisbane 4072, QLD, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- a The University of Queensland, Institute for Molecular Bioscience , Brisbane 4072, QLD, Australia
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