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Ezzemani W, Altawalah H, Windisch M, Ouladlahsen A, Saile R, Kettani A, Ezzikouri S. Identification of Zika virus NS2B-NS3 protease and NS5 polymerase inhibitors by structure-based virtual screening of FDA-approved drugs. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:8073-8088. [PMID: 37528667 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2242963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne human flavivirus responsible that causing emergency outbreaks in Brazil. ZIKV is suspected of causing Guillain-Barre syndrome in adults and microcephaly. The NS2B-NS3 protease and NS5 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), central to ZIKV multiplication, have been identified as attractive molecular targets for drugs. We performed a structure-based virtual screening of 2,659 FDA-approved small molecule drugs in the DrugBank database using AutoDock Vina in PyRx v0.8. Accordingly, 15 potential drugs were selected as ZIKV inhibitors because of their high values (binding affinity - binding energy) and we analyzed the molecular interactions between the active site amino acids and the compounds. Among these drugs, tamsulosin was found to interact most efficiently with NS2B/NS3 protease, as indicated by the lowest binding energy value (-8.27 kJ/mol), the highest binding affinity (-5.7 Kcal/mol), and formed H-bonds with amino acid residues TYRB130, SERB135, TYRB150. Furthermore, biotin was found to interact most efficiently with NS5 RdRp with a binding energy of -150.624 kJ/mol, a binding affinity of -5.6 Kcal/mol, and formed H-bonds with the amino acid residues ASPA665 and ASPA540. In vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies are needed to demonstrate anti-ZIKV safety and the efficacy of these FDA-approved drug candidates.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wahiba Ezzemani
- Virology Unit, Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
- Laboratoire de Biologie et Santé (URAC34), Départment de Biologie, Faculté des Sciences Ben Msik, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Haya Altawalah
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait
- Virology Unit, Yacoub Behbehani Center, Sabah Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuwait
| | - Marc Windisch
- Applied Molecular Virology Laboratory, Discovery Biology Department, Institut Pasteur Korea, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Ahd Ouladlahsen
- Faculté de médecine et de pharmacie, Université Hassan II, Casablanca, Morocco
- Service des maladies Infectieuses, CHU Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Rachid Saile
- Laboratoire de Biologie et Santé (URAC34), Départment de Biologie, Faculté des Sciences Ben Msik, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Anass Kettani
- Laboratoire de Biologie et Santé (URAC34), Départment de Biologie, Faculté des Sciences Ben Msik, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Sayeh Ezzikouri
- Virology Unit, Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
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2
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Huber S, Braun NJ, Schmacke LC, Murra R, Bender D, Hildt E, Heine A, Steinmetzer T. Synthesis and structural characterization of new macrocyclic inhibitors of the Zika virus NS2B-NS3 protease. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2024; 357:e2400250. [PMID: 38809037 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202400250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Three new series of macrocyclic active site-directed inhibitors of the Zika virus (ZIKV) NS2B-NS3 protease were synthesized. First, attempts were made to replace the basic P3 lysine residue of our previously described inhibitors with uncharged and more hydrophobic residues. This provided numerous compounds with inhibition constants between 30 and 50 nM. A stronger reduction of the inhibitory potency was observed when the P2 lysine was replaced by neutral residues, all of these inhibitors possess Ki values >1 µM. However, it is possible to replace the P2 lysine with the less basic 3-aminomethylphenylalanine, which provides a similarly potent inhibitor of the ZIKV protease (Ki = 2.69 nM). Crystal structure investigations showed that the P2 benzylamine structure forms comparable interactions with the protease as lysine. Twelve additional structures of these inhibitors in complex with the protease were determined, which explain many, but not all, SAR data obtained in this study. All individual modifications in the P2 or P3 position resulted in inhibitors with low antiviral efficacy in cell culture. Therefore, a third inhibitor series with combined modifications was synthesized; all of them contain a more hydrophobic d-cyclohexylalanine in the linker segment. At a concentration of 40 µM, two of these compounds possess similar antiviral potency as ribavirin at 100 µM. Due to their reliable crystallization in complex with the ZIKV protease, these cyclic compounds are very well suited for a rational structure-based development of improved inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Huber
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Niklas J Braun
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Luna C Schmacke
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Robin Murra
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Federal Institute for Vaccines and Biomedicines, Langen, Germany
| | - Daniela Bender
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Federal Institute for Vaccines and Biomedicines, Langen, Germany
| | - Eberhard Hildt
- Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Federal Institute for Vaccines and Biomedicines, Langen, Germany
| | - Andreas Heine
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Torsten Steinmetzer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Goh JZH, De Hayr L, Khromykh AA, Slonchak A. The Flavivirus Non-Structural Protein 5 (NS5): Structure, Functions, and Targeting for Development of Vaccines and Therapeutics. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:865. [PMID: 39203991 PMCID: PMC11360482 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12080865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Flaviviruses, including dengue (DENV), Zika (ZIKV), West Nile (WNV), Japanese encephalitis (JEV), yellow fever (YFV), and tick-borne encephalitis (TBEV) viruses, pose a significant global emerging threat. With their potential to cause widespread outbreaks and severe health complications, the development of effective vaccines and antiviral therapeutics is imperative. The flaviviral non-structural protein 5 (NS5) is a highly conserved and multifunctional protein that is crucial for viral replication, and the NS5 protein of many flaviviruses has been shown to be a potent inhibitor of interferon (IFN) signalling. In this review, we discuss the functions of NS5, diverse NS5-mediated strategies adopted by flaviviruses to evade the host antiviral response, and how NS5 can be a target for the development of vaccines and antiviral therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Andrii Slonchak
- Australian Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (J.Z.H.G.); (L.D.H.); (A.A.K.)
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Anindita PD, Otsuka Y, Lattmann S, Ngo KH, Liew CW, Kang C, Harris RS, Scampavia L, Spicer TP, Luo D. A high-throughput cell-based screening method for Zika virus protease inhibitor discovery. SLAS DISCOVERY : ADVANCING LIFE SCIENCES R & D 2024; 29:100164. [PMID: 38796112 DOI: 10.1016/j.slasd.2024.100164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) continues to pose a significant global public health threat, with recurring regional outbreaks and potential for pandemic spread. Despite often being asymptomatic, ZIKV infections can have severe consequences, including neurological disorders and congenital abnormalities. Unfortunately, there are currently no approved vaccines or antiviral drugs for the prevention or treatment of ZIKV. One promising target for drug development is the ZIKV NS2B-NS3 protease due to its crucial role in the virus life cycle. In this study, we established a cell-based ZIKV protease inhibition assay designed for high-throughput screening (HTS). Our assay relies on the ZIKV protease's ability to cleave a cyclised firefly luciferase fused to a natural cleavage sequence between NS2B and NS3 protease within living cells. We evaluated the performance of our assay in HTS setting using the pharmacologic controls (JNJ-40418677 and MK-591) and by screening a Library of Pharmacologically Active Compounds (LOPAC). The results confirmed the feasibility of our assay for compound library screening to identify potential ZIKV protease inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Duhita Anindita
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yuka Otsuka
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, FL, United States
| | - Simon Lattmann
- NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Khac Huy Ngo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chong Wai Liew
- NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - CongBao Kang
- Experimental Drug Development Centre, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Reuben S Harris
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States
| | - Louis Scampavia
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, FL, United States
| | - Timothy P Spicer
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, FL, United States.
| | - Dahai Luo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore, Singapore.
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Feng Y. Recent advances in the study of zika virus structure, drug targets, and inhibitors. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1418516. [PMID: 39011504 PMCID: PMC11246971 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1418516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Zika Virus (ZIKV) is a positive-strand RNA virus that can lead to Guillain-Barré syndrome or encephalitis in some individuals and hence presents a serious public health risk. Since the first outbreak of ZIKV in Brazil in 2015, no effective clinical inhibitors have been developed, making the development of effective ZIKV drugs an urgent issue that needs to be addressed. ZIKV belongs to the Flaviviridae family, and its structure includes three structural proteins, namely, capsular (C), premembrane (prM), and envelope (E) proteins, as well as seven nonstructural proteins, namely, NS1, NS2A, NS2B, NS3, NS4A, NS4B, and NS5. To provide a reference for the development of future ZIKV drugs, this paper reviews the structure of the ZIKV based on recent literature reports, analyzes the potential therapeutic targets of various proteins, and proposes feasible drug design strategies. Additionally, this paper reviews and classifies the latest research progress on several protease inhibitors, such as E protein inhibitors, NS2B-NS3 inhibitors, and NS5 inhibitors, so that researchers can quickly understand the current status of development and the interconnections among these inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingqi Feng
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Green Catalysis and Separation and Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Materials Science & Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
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Behnam MAM, Klein CD. Alternate recognition by dengue protease: Proteolytic and binding assays provide functional evidence beyond an induced-fit. Biochimie 2024:S0300-9084(24)00138-X. [PMID: 38871044 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.06.002] [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: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Proteases are key enzymes in viral replication, and interfering with these targets is the basis for therapeutic interventions. We previously introduced a hypothesis about conformational selection in the protease of dengue virus and related flaviviruses, based on conformational plasticity noted in X-ray structures. The present work presents the first functional evidence for alternate recognition by the dengue protease, in a mechanism based primarily on conformational selection rather than induced-fit. Recognition of distinct substrates and inhibitors in proteolytic and binding assays varies to a different extent, depending on factors reported to influence the protease structure. The pH, salinity, buffer type, and temperature cause a change in binding, proteolysis, or inhibition behavior. Using representative inhibitors with distinct structural scaffolds, we identify two contrasting binding profiles to dengue protease. Noticeable effects are observed in the binding assay upon inclusion of a non-ionic detergent in comparison to the proteolytic assay. The findings highlight the impact of the selection of testing conditions on the observed ligand affinity or inhibitory potency. From a broader scope, the dengue protease presents an example, where the induced-fit paradigm appears insufficient to explain binding events with the biological target. Furthermore, this protein reveals the complexity of comparing or combining biochemical assay data obtained under different conditions. This can be particularly critical for artificial intelligence (AI) approaches in drug discovery that rely on large datasets of compounds activity, compiled from different sources using non-identical testing procedures. In such cases, mismatched results will compromise the model quality and its predictive power.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mira A M Behnam
- Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christian D Klein
- Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Qianzhu H, Abdelkader EH, Otting G, Huber T. Genetic Encoding of Fluoro-l-tryptophans for Site-Specific Detection of Conformational Heterogeneity in Proteins by NMR Spectroscopy. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:13641-13650. [PMID: 38687675 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c03743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The substitution of a single hydrogen atom in a protein by fluorine yields a site-specific probe for sensitive detection by 19F nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, where the absence of background signal from the protein facilitates the detection of minor conformational species. We developed genetic encoding systems for the site-selective incorporation of 4-fluorotryptophan, 5-fluorotryptophan, 6-fluorotryptophan, and 7-fluorotryptophan in response to an amber stop codon and used them to investigate conformational heterogeneity in a designed amino acid binding protein and in flaviviral NS2B-NS3 proteases. These proteases have been shown to present variable conformations in X-ray crystal structures, including flips of the indole side chains of tryptophan residues. The 19F NMR spectra of different fluorotryptophan isomers installed at the conserved site of Trp83 indicate that the indole ring flip is common in flaviviral NS2B-NS3 proteases in the apo state and suppressed by an active-site inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haocheng Qianzhu
- Research School of Chemistry, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Elwy H Abdelkader
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide & Protein Science, Research School of Chemistry, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Gottfried Otting
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide & Protein Science, Research School of Chemistry, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Thomas Huber
- Research School of Chemistry, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
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Ni X, Godoy AS, Marples PG, Fairhead M, Balcomb BH, Ferla MP, Tomlinson CWE, Wang S, Giroud C, Aschenbrenner JC, Lithgo RM, Winokan M, Chandran AV, Thompson W, Xavier MA, Williams EP, Walsh M, Fearon D, Koekemoer L, von Delft F. Crystallographic fragment screening delivers diverse chemical scaffolds for Zika virus NS2B-NS3 protease inhibitor development. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.29.591502. [PMID: 38746305 PMCID: PMC11092485 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.29.591502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) infections cause microcephaly in new-borns and Guillain-Barre syndrome in adults raising a significant global public health concern, yet no vaccines or antiviral drugs have been developed to prevent or treat ZIKV infections. The viral protease NS3 and its co-factor NS2B are essential for the cleavage of the Zika polyprotein precursor into individual structural and non-structural proteins and is therefore an attractive drug target. Generation of a robust crystal system of co-expressed NS2B-NS3 protease has enabled us to perform a crystallographic fragment screening campaign with 1076 fragments. 48 binders with diverse chemical scaffolds were identified in the active site of the protease, with another 6 fragment hits observed in a potential allosteric binding site. Our work provides potential starting points for the development of potent NS2B-NS3 protease inhibitors. Furthermore, we have structurally characterized a potential allosteric binding pocket, identifying opportunities for allosteric inhibitor development.
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Starvaggi J, Previti S, Zappalà M, Ettari R. The Inhibition of NS2B/NS3 Protease: A New Therapeutic Opportunity to Treat Dengue and Zika Virus Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4376. [PMID: 38673962 PMCID: PMC11050111 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In the global pandemic scenario, dengue and zika viruses (DENV and ZIKV, respectively), both mosquito-borne members of the flaviviridae family, represent a serious health problem, and considering the absence of specific antiviral drugs and available vaccines, there is a dire need to identify new targets to treat these types of viral infections. Within this drug discovery process, the protease NS2B/NS3 is considered the primary target for the development of novel anti-flavivirus drugs. The NS2B/NS3 is a serine protease that has a dual function both in the viral replication process and in the elusion of the innate immunity. To date, two main classes of NS2B/NS3 of DENV and ZIKV protease inhibitors have been discovered: those that bind to the orthosteric site and those that act at the allosteric site. Therefore, this perspective article aims to discuss the main features of the use of the most potent NS2B/NS3 inhibitors and their impact at the social level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Roberta Ettari
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical, and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (J.S.); (S.P.); (M.Z.)
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Loh YY, Anantharajan J, Huang Q, Xu W, Fulwood J, Ng HQ, Ng EY, Gea CY, Choong ML, Tan QW, Koh X, Lim WH, Nacro K, Cherian J, Baburajendran N, Ke Z, Kang C. Identification of small-molecule binding sites of a ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme-UBE2T through fragment-based screening. Protein Sci 2024; 33:e4904. [PMID: 38358126 PMCID: PMC10868430 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
UBE2T is an attractive target for drug development due to its linkage with several types of cancers. However, the druggability of ubiquitin-conjugating E2 (UBE2T) is low because of the lack of a deep and hydrophobic pocket capable of forming strong binding interactions with drug-like small molecules. Here, we performed fragment screening using 19 F-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and validated the hits with 1 H-15 N-heteronuclear single quantum coherence (HSQC) experiment and X-ray crystallographic studies. The cocrystal structures obtained revealed the binding modes of the hit fragments and allowed for the characterization of the fragment-binding sites. Further screening of structural analogues resulted in the identification of a compound series with inhibitory effect on UBE2T activity. Our current study has identified two new binding pockets in UBE2T, which will be useful for the development of small molecules to regulate the function of this protein. In addition, the compounds identified in this study can serve as chemical starting points for the development of UBE2T modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Yao Loh
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Jothi Anantharajan
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Qiwei Huang
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Weijun Xu
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Justina Fulwood
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Hui Qi Ng
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Elizabeth Yihui Ng
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Chong Yu Gea
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Meng Ling Choong
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Qian Wen Tan
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Xiaoying Koh
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Wan Hsin Lim
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Kassoum Nacro
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Joseph Cherian
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Nithya Baburajendran
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Zhiyuan Ke
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - CongBao Kang
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
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11
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Cruz KG, Eron MH, Makhaik S, Savinov S, Hardy JA. A Non-Active-Site Inhibitor with Selectivity for Zika Virus NS2B-NS3 Protease. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:412-425. [PMID: 38265226 PMCID: PMC11099878 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Flavivirus infection usually results in fever accompanied by headache, arthralgia, and, in some cases, rash. Although the symptoms are mild, full recovery can take several months. Flaviviruses encode seven nonstructural proteins that represent potential drug targets for this viral family. Focusing on the Zika virus NS2B-NS3 protease, we uncovered a unique inhibitor, MH1, composed of aminothiazolopyridine and benzofuran moieties. MH1 inhibits ZVP with a biochemical IC50 of 440 nM and effectively blocks cleavage of ZVP substrates in cells. Surprisingly, MH1 inhibits the other flaviviral proteases at least 18-fold more weakly. This same phenomenon was observed in assays of the viral cytopathic effect, where only Zika virus showed sensitivity to MH1. This selectivity was unexpected since flaviviral proteases have high similarity in sequence and protein structure. MH1 binds at an allosteric site, as demonstrated by its ability to stabilize ZVP synergistically with an active site inhibitor. To understand its selectivity, we constructed a series of hybrid proteases composed of select segments of ZVP, which is sensitive to MH1, and dengue virus protease, which is essentially insensitive to MH1. Our results suggest that MH1 binds to the NS3 protease domain, disrupting its interaction with NS2B. These interactions are essential for substrate binding and cleavage. In particular, the unique dynamic properties of NS2B from Zika seem to be required for the function of MH1. Insights into the mechanism of MH1 function will aid us in developing non-active-site-directed, pan-flaviviral inhibitors, by highlighting the importance of evaluating and considering the dynamics of the NS2B regions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sparsh Makhaik
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst, MA, US 01002
| | | | - Jeanne A. Hardy
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst, MA, US 01002
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Li Q, Lenertz M, Armstrong Z, MacRae A, Feng L, Ugrinov A, Yang Z. A Protocol to Depict the Proteolytic Processes Using a Combination of Metal-Organic Materials (MOMs), Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR), and Mass Spectrometry (MS). Bio Protoc 2024; 14:e4909. [PMID: 38213322 PMCID: PMC10777052 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteolysis is a critical biochemical process yet a challenging field to study experimentally due to the self-degradation of a protease and the complex, dynamic degradation steps of a substrate. Mass spectrometry (MS) is the traditional way for proteolytic studies, yet it is challenging when time-resolved, step-by-step details of the degradation process are needed. We recently found a way to resolve the cleavage site, preference/selectivity of cleavage regions, and proteolytic kinetics by combining site-directed spin labeling (SDSL) of protein substrate, time-resolved two-dimensional (2D) electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, protease immobilization via metal-organic materials (MOMs), and MS. The method has been demonstrated on a model substrate and protease, yet there is a lack of details on the practical operations to carry out our strategy. Thus, this protocol summarizes the key steps and considerations when carrying out the EPR/MS study on proteolytic processes, which can be generalized to study other protein/polypeptide substrates in proteolysis. Details for the experimental operation and cautions of each step are reported with figures illustrating the concepts. This protocol provides an effective approach to understanding the proteolytic process with the advantages of offering time-resolved, residue-level resolution of structural basis underlying the process. Such information is important for revealing the cleavage site and proteolytic mechanisms of unknown proteases. The advantage of EPR, probing the target substrate regardless of the complexities caused by the proteases and their self-degradation, offers a practically effective, rapid, and easy-to-operate approach to studying proteolysis. Key features • Combining protease immobilization, EPR, spin labeling, and MS experimental methods allows for the analysis of proteolysis process in real time. • Reveals cleavage site, kinetics of product generation, and preference of cleavage regions via time-resolved SDSL-EPR. • MS confirms EPR findings and helps depict the sequences and populations of the cleaved segments in real time. • The demonstrated method can be generalized to other proteins or polypeptide substrates upon proteolysis by other proteases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaobin Li
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, 58102, USA
| | - Mary Lenertz
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, 58102, USA
| | - Zoe Armstrong
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, 58102, USA
| | - Austin MacRae
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, 58102, USA
| | - Li Feng
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, 58102, USA
| | - Angel Ugrinov
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, 58102, USA
| | - Zhongyu Yang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, 58102, USA
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13
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De Tran Q, Nguyen CQ, Dang QL, Minh Nguyen TH, Buu Hue BT, Thi Le MU, Tuan NT, Chau Thanh NQ, Men TT, Quan PM, Tuan ND, Cam TT, Thu Thuy NT, Bich Hau VT, Binh TD, Nguyen HP. ZIKV Inhibitors Based on Pyrazolo[3,4- d]pyridazine-7-one Core: Rational Design, In Vitro Evaluation, and Theoretical Studies. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:48994-49008. [PMID: 38162759 PMCID: PMC10753549 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c06612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The Zika virus (ZIKV) is believed to cause birth defects, and no anti-ZIKV drugs have been approved by medical organizations to date. Starting from antimicrobial lead compounds with a pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyridazine-7-one scaffold, we synthesized 16 derivatives and screened their ability to interfere with ZIKV infection utilizing a cell-based phenotypic assay. Of these, five compounds showed significant inhibition of ZIKV with a selective index value greater than 4.6. In particular, compound 9b showed the best anti-ZIKV activity with a selectivity index of 22.4 (half-maximal effective concentration = 25.6 μM and 50% cytotoxic concentration = 572.4 μM). Through the brine shrimp lethality bioassay, 9b, 10b, 12, 17a, and 19a showed median lethal dose values in a range of 87.2-100.3 μg/mL. Compound 9b was also targeted to the NS2B-NS3 protease of ZIKV using molecular docking protocols, in which it acted as a noncompetitive inhibitor and strongly bound to five key amino acids (His51, Asp75, Ser135, Ala132, Tyr161). Utilizing the pharmacophore model of 9b, the top 20 hits were identified as prospective inhibitors of NS2B-NS3 protease, and six of them were confirmed for their stability with the protease via redocking and molecular dynamics simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quang De Tran
- Department
of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Can Tho University, Can Tho 94000, Vietnam
- Analytical
Techniques Lab (1.16-AT Department of Chemistry L), CTU High-tech
Building, Can Tho University, Can Tho 94000, Vietnam
| | - Cuong Quoc Nguyen
- Department
of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Can Tho University, Can Tho 94000, Vietnam
- Analytical
Techniques Lab (1.16-AT Department of Chemistry L), CTU High-tech
Building, Can Tho University, Can Tho 94000, Vietnam
| | - Quang Le Dang
- Institute
for Tropical Technology, Vietnam Academy
of Science and Technology, Hanoi 10072, Vietnam
- Graduate
University of Science and Technology, Vietnam
Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi 10072, Vietnam
| | - Thi Hong Minh Nguyen
- Department
of Life Science, University of Science and
Technology of Ha Noi, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ha Noi 10072, Vietnam
| | - Bui Thi Buu Hue
- Department
of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Can Tho University, Can Tho 94000, Vietnam
| | - Minh Uyen Thi Le
- Department
of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis 46202, Indiana, United States
| | - Nguyen Trong Tuan
- Department
of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Can Tho University, Can Tho 94000, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Quoc Chau Thanh
- Department
of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Can Tho University, Can Tho 94000, Vietnam
| | - Tran Thanh Men
- Department
of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Can Tho University, Can Tho 94000, Vietnam
| | - Pham Minh Quan
- Graduate
University of Science and Technology, Vietnam
Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi 10072, Vietnam
- Institute
of Natural Products Chemistry, Vietnam Academy
of Science and Technology, Ha Noi 10072, Vietnam
| | | | | | - Nguyen Thi Thu Thuy
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, No 1 Yersin, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi 10000, Vietnam
| | - Vu Thi Bich Hau
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, No 1 Yersin, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi 10000, Vietnam
| | - Tran Duy Binh
- Department
of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Can Tho University, Can Tho 94000, Vietnam
| | - Hong Phuong Nguyen
- Department
of Pediatrics, Indiana University School
of Medicine, Indianapolis 46202, Indiana, United States
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14
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Li Q, Ng HQ, Loh YR, Kang C. Backbone 1H, 15N and 13C resonance assignments for dengue NS2B without the NS3 protease cofactor region in detergent micelles. BIOMOLECULAR NMR ASSIGNMENTS 2023; 17:205-209. [PMID: 37405583 DOI: 10.1007/s12104-023-10142-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Dengue virus is an important human pathogen affecting people especially in tropical and subtropical regions. Its genome encodes seven non-structural proteins that are important for viral assembly and replication. Dengue NS2B is a membrane protein containing four transmembrane helices and involved in protein-protein interactions. Its transmembrane helices are critical for location of NS2B on the cell membrane while one cytoplasmic region composed of approximately 40 amino acids serves as a cofactor of viral NS3 protease by forming a tight complex with the N-terminal region of NS3. Here, we report the backbone resonance assignments for a dengue NS2B construct referred to as mini-NS2B containing only the transmembrane regions without NS3 cofactor region in detergent micelles. Mini-NS2B exhibits well-dispersed cross-peaks in the 1H-15N-HSQC spectrum and contains four helices in solution. The available mini-NS2B and its assignment will be useful for determining the structure of NS2B and identifying small molecules binding to the transmembrane regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingxin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Biomass High Value Utilization, Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510316, China
| | - Hui Qi Ng
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 10 Biopolis Road, Chromos, #05-01, Singapore, 138670, Singapore
| | - Ying Ru Loh
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 10 Biopolis Road, Chromos, #05-01, Singapore, 138670, Singapore
| | - CongBao Kang
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 10 Biopolis Road, Chromos, #05-01, Singapore, 138670, Singapore.
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15
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Shiryaev SA, Cieplak P, Cheltsov A, Liddington RC, Terskikh AV. Dual function of Zika virus NS2B-NS3 protease. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011795. [PMID: 38011215 PMCID: PMC10723727 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) serine protease, indispensable for viral polyprotein processing and replication, is composed of the membrane-anchored NS2B polypeptide and the N-terminal domain of the NS3 polypeptide (NS3pro). The C-terminal domain of the NS3 polypeptide (NS3hel) is necessary for helicase activity and contains an ATP-binding site. We discovered that ZIKV NS2B-NS3pro binds single-stranded RNA with a Kd of ~0.3 μM, suggesting a novel function. We tested various structural modifications of NS2B-NS3pro and observed that constructs stabilized in the recently discovered "super-open" conformation do not bind RNA. Likewise, stabilizing NS2B-NS3pro in the "closed" (proteolytically active) conformation using substrate inhibitors abolished RNA binding. We posit that RNA binding occurs when ZIKV NS2B-NS3pro adopts the "open" conformation, which we modeled using highly homologous dengue NS2B-NS3pro crystallized in the open conformation. We identified two positively charged fork-like structures present only in the open conformation of NS3pro. These forks are conserved across Flaviviridae family and could be aligned with the positively charged grove on NS3hel, providing a contiguous binding surface for the negative RNA strand exiting helicase. We propose a "reverse inchworm" model for a tightly intertwined NS2B-NS3 helicase-protease machinery, which suggests that NS2B-NS3pro cycles between open and super-open conformations to bind and release RNA enabling long-range NS3hel processivity. The transition to the closed conformation, likely induced by the substrate, enables the classical protease activity of NS2B-NS3pro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey A. Shiryaev
- Sanford-Burnham-Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Infectious and Inflammatory Disease Center, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Piotr Cieplak
- Sanford-Burnham-Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Infectious and Inflammatory Disease Center, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Anton Cheltsov
- Q-mol LLC, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Robert C. Liddington
- Sanford-Burnham-Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Infectious and Inflammatory Disease Center, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Alexey V. Terskikh
- Sanford-Burnham-Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Infectious and Inflammatory Disease Center, La Jolla, California, United States of America
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16
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Hossain MS, Shovon MTI, Hasan MR, Hakim FT, Hasan MM, Esha SA, Tasnim S, Nazir MS, Akhter F, Ali MA, Halim MA. Therapeutic Potential of Antiviral Peptides against the NS2B/NS3 Protease of Zika Virus. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:35207-35218. [PMID: 37779969 PMCID: PMC10536883 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c04903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
The NS2B/NS3 protease is highly conserved among various proteases of the Zika virus, making it an important therapeutic target for developing broad-spectrum antiviral drugs. The NS2B/NS3 protease is a crucial enzyme in the replication cycle of Zika virus and plays a significant role in viral maturation and assembly. Inhibiting the activity of this protease can potentially prevent viral replication, making it an attractive target for developing therapies against Zika virus infection. This work screens 429 antiviral peptides in comparison with substrate peptide against the NS2B/NS3 of Zika virus using molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Based on the docking screening, MD simulation conducted for the best four peptides including AVP0239, AVP0642, AVP0660, and AVP2044, could be effective against NS2B/NS3. These results were compared with the control substrate peptide. Further analysis indicates that AVP0642 and AVP2044 are the most promising candidates. The interaction analysis showed that the catalytic site residues including His51, Asp75, Ser135 and other non-catalytic residues such as Asp129, Asp83, and Asp79 contribute substantial interactions. Hydrogen bonds (41%) and hydrophobic interactions (33%) are observed as the prominent non-covalent interaction prompting the peptide-protein complex formation. Furthermore, the structure-activity relationship (SAR) illustrates that positively charged (Lys, Arg) residues in the peptides dominate the interactions. This study provides the basis for developing novel peptide-based protease inhibitors for Zika virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Shahadat Hossain
- Division
of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer-Aided Drug Design, The Red-Green Research Center, BICCB, Tejgaon 1215, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Tanjil Islam Shovon
- Division
of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer-Aided Drug Design, The Red-Green Research Center, BICCB, Tejgaon 1215, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Rafid Hasan
- Division
of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer-Aided Drug Design, The Red-Green Research Center, BICCB, Tejgaon 1215, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Fuad Taufiqul Hakim
- Division
of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer-Aided Drug Design, The Red-Green Research Center, BICCB, Tejgaon 1215, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Mehedi Hasan
- Division
of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer-Aided Drug Design, The Red-Green Research Center, BICCB, Tejgaon 1215, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sadia Afrose Esha
- Division
of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer-Aided Drug Design, The Red-Green Research Center, BICCB, Tejgaon 1215, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sabiha Tasnim
- Division
of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer-Aided Drug Design, The Red-Green Research Center, BICCB, Tejgaon 1215, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Shahoriar Nazir
- Division
of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer-Aided Drug Design, The Red-Green Research Center, BICCB, Tejgaon 1215, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Fahmida Akhter
- Division
of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer-Aided Drug Design, The Red-Green Research Center, BICCB, Tejgaon 1215, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Ackas Ali
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kennesaw
State University, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144, United States
| | - Mohammad A. Halim
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kennesaw
State University, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144, United States
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17
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Pant S, Jena NR. Repurposing of antiparasitic drugs against the NS2B-NS3 protease of the Zika virus. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37747074 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2255648] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
To date, no approved drugs are available to treat the Zika virus (ZIKV) infection. Therefore, it is necessary to urgently identify potential drugs against the ZIKV infection. Here, the repurposing of 30 antiparasitic drugs against the NS2B-NS3 protease of the ZIKV has been carried out by using combined docking and molecular dynamics- (MD) simulations. Based on the docking results, 5 drugs, such as Amodiaquine, Primaquine, Paromomycin, Dichlorophene, and Ivermectin were screened for further analysis by MD simulations and free energy calculations. Among these drugs, Amodiaquine and Dichlorophen are found to produce the most stable complexes and possess relative binding free energies of about -44.3 ± 3.7 kcal/mol and -41.1 ± 5.3 kcal/mol respectively. Therefore, they would act as potent small-molecule inhibitors of the ZIKV protease.However, evaluations of biological and safety activities of these drugs against the ZIKV protease are required before their clinical use.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Pant
- Department of Pharmacoinformatics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Kolkata, India
| | - N R Jena
- Discipline of Natural Sciences, Indian Institute of Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing, Jabalpur, India
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18
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Santos LH, Rocha REO, Dias DL, Ribeiro BMRM, Serafim MSM, Abrahão JS, Ferreira RS. Evaluating Known Zika Virus NS2B-NS3 Protease Inhibitor Scaffolds via In Silico Screening and Biochemical Assays. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1319. [PMID: 37765127 PMCID: PMC10537087 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The NS2B-NS3 protease (NS2B-NS3pro) is regarded as an interesting molecular target for drug design, discovery, and development because of its essential role in the Zika virus (ZIKV) cycle. Although no NS2B-NS3pro inhibitors have reached clinical trials, the employment of drug-like scaffolds can facilitate the screening process for new compounds. In this study, we performed a combination of ligand-based and structure-based in silico methods targeting two known non-peptide small-molecule scaffolds with micromolar inhibitory activity against ZIKV NS2B-NS3pro by a virtual screening (VS) of promising compounds. Based on these two scaffolds, we selected 13 compounds from an initial library of 509 compounds from ZINC15's similarity search. These compounds exhibited structural modifications that are distinct from previously known compounds yet keep pertinent features for binding. Despite promising outcomes from molecular docking and initial enzymatic assays against NS2B-NS3pro, confirmatory assays with a counter-screening enzyme revealed an artifactual inhibition of the assessed compounds. However, we report two compounds, 9 and 11, that exhibited antiviral properties at a concentration of 50 μM in cellular-based assays. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the ongoing research on anti-ZIKV compounds to facilitate and improve the development of new inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucianna H. Santos
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Rafael E. O. Rocha
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Diego L. Dias
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil (M.S.M.S.)
| | - Beatriz M. R. M. Ribeiro
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Mateus Sá M. Serafim
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil (M.S.M.S.)
| | - Jônatas S. Abrahão
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil (M.S.M.S.)
| | - Rafaela S. Ferreira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
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19
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Andrade MA, Mottin M, Sousa BKDP, Barbosa JARG, Dos Santos Azevedo C, Lasse Silva C, Gonçalves de Andrade M, Motta FN, Maulay-Bailly C, Amand S, Santana JMD, Horta Andrade C, Grellier P, Bastos IMD. Identification of novel Zika virus NS3 protease inhibitors with different inhibition modes by integrative experimental and computational approaches. Biochimie 2023; 212:143-152. [PMID: 37088408 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) infection is associated with severe neurological disorders and congenital malformation. Despite efforts to eradicate the disease, there is still neither vaccine nor approved drugs to treat ZIKV infection. The NS2B-NS3 protease is a validated drug target since it is essential to polyprotein virus maturation. In the present study, we describe an experimental screening of 2,320 compounds from the chemical library of the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle of Paris on ZIKV NS2B-NS3 protease. A total of 96 hits were identified with 90% or more of inhibitory activity at 10 μM. Amongst the most active compounds, five were analyzed for their inhibitory mechanisms by kinetics assays and computational approaches such as molecular docking. 2-(3-methoxyphenoxy) benzoic acid (compound 945) show characteristics of a competitive inhibition (Ki = 0.49 μM) that was corroborated by its molecular docking at the active site of the NS2B-NS3 protease. Taxifolin (compound 2292) behaves as an allosteric inhibitor whereas 3,8,9-trihydroxy-2-methyl-1H-phenalen-1-one (compound 128), harmol (compound 368) and anthrapurpurin (compound 1499) show uncompetitive inhibitions. These new NS2B-NS3 protease inhibitors are valuable hits to further hit-to-lead optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milene Aparecida Andrade
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Melina Mottin
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil; Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design - LabMol, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Bruna K de P Sousa
- Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design - LabMol, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | | | - Clênia Dos Santos Azevedo
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Camila Lasse Silva
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | | | - Flávia Nader Motta
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil; Faculdade de Ceilândia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Christine Maulay-Bailly
- UMR 7245 MCAM, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Paris, France
| | - Séverine Amand
- UMR 7245 MCAM, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Paris, France
| | - Jaime Martins de Santana
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Carolina Horta Andrade
- Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design - LabMol, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Philippe Grellier
- UMR 7245 MCAM, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Paris, France.
| | - Izabela M D Bastos
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil.
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20
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Kumar A, Kumar P, Mishra PM, Giri R. Investigating the folding dynamics of NS2B protein of Zika virus. Virology 2023; 584:24-36. [PMID: 37210794 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2023.04.012] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
NS2B protein of the Zika virus acts as a co-factor for NS3 protease and also involves in remodeling NS3 protease structure. Therefore, we investigated the overall dynamics of NS2B protein. We find surprising similarities between selected flavivirus NS2B model structures predicted from Alphafold2. Further, the simulated ZIKV NS2B protein structure shows a disordered cytosolic domain (residues 45-95) as a part of a full-length protein. Since only the cytosolic domain of NS2B is sufficient for the protease activity, we also investigated the conformational dynamics of only ZIKV NS2B cytosolic domain (residues 49-95) in the presence of TFE, SDS, Ficoll, and PEG using simulation and spectroscopy. The presence of TFE induces α-helix in NS2B cytosolic domain (residues 49-95). On the other hand, the presence of SDS, ficoll, and PEG does not induce secondary structural change. This dynamics study could have implications for some unknown folds of the NS2B protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankur Kumar
- School of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, VPO-Kamand, Mandi, 175005, HP, India
| | - Prateek Kumar
- School of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, VPO-Kamand, Mandi, 175005, HP, India
| | - Pushpendra Mani Mishra
- School of Chemical Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, VPO-Kamand, Mandi, 175005, HP, India
| | - Rajanish Giri
- School of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, VPO-Kamand, Mandi, 175005, HP, India.
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21
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van den Elsen K, Chew BLA, Ho JS, Luo D. Flavivirus nonstructural proteins and replication complexes as antiviral drug targets. Curr Opin Virol 2023; 59:101305. [PMID: 36870091 PMCID: PMC10023477 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2023.101305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Many flaviviruses are well-known pathogens, such as dengue, Zika, Japanese encephalitis, and yellow fever viruses. Among them, dengue viruses cause global epidemics and threaten billions of people. Effective vaccines and antivirals are in desperate need. In this review, we focus on the recent advances in understanding viral nonstructural (NS) proteins as antiviral drug targets. We briefly summarize the experimental structures and predicted models of flaviviral NS proteins and their functions. We highlight a few well-characterized inhibitors targeting these NS proteins and provide an update about the latest development. NS4B emerges as one of the most promising drug targets as novel inhibitors targeting NS4B and its interaction network are entering clinical studies. Studies aiming to elucidate the architecture and molecular basis of viral replication will offer new opportunities for novel antiviral discovery. Direct-acting agents against dengue and other pathogenic flaviviruses may be available very soon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaïn van den Elsen
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 06-01, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Bing Liang Alvin Chew
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 06-01, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Jun Sheng Ho
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Dahai Luo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 06-01, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore.
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22
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Bhattacharya M, Bhowmik D, Tian Y, He H, Zhu F, Yin Q. The Dengue virus protease NS2B3 cleaves cyclic GMP-AMP synthase to suppress cGAS activation. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:102986. [PMID: 36754281 PMCID: PMC10011430 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.102986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Dengue virus (DENV) is one of the most prevalent mosquito-transmitted human viruses that causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. To persist in the cell and consequently cause disease, DENV is evolved with mechanisms to suppress the induction of type I interferons by antagonizing cGAS-STING signaling. Using recombinant proteins and in vitro cleavage assays, we have shown that the DENV protease NS2B3 is capable of cleaving cGAS in the N-terminal region without disrupting the C-terminal catalytic center. This generates two major cleavage products: cleavage product N-terminal (CP-N) and cleavage product C-terminal (CP-C). We observed reduction in DNA-binding affinity of CP-C as compared to full-length cGAS. Reduction in DNA-binding affinity is also correlated with the decrease in enzymatic activity of CP-C. CP-N, on the other hand, has almost comparable DNA-binding ability as that of the full-length cGAS. In fact, CP-N competitively inhibits cyclic GMP-AMP production by both full-length cGAS and CP-C. We hypothesize that high DNA-binding affinity of CP-N enables it to sequester the DNA from CP-C and noncleaved full-length cGAS and thus reduces the rate of enzyme activation and cyclic GMP-AMP synthesis. Furthermore, we found that NS2B3 physically interacts with full-length cGAS and CP-C, laying the basis for their shuttling to and eventual degradation in the autophagosome. Overall, our study highlights a multifaceted and effective strategy by which an RNA virus antagonizes cGAS-STING signaling which may be useful for the design of antivirals targeting viral proteases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Debipreeta Bhowmik
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Huan He
- Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Fanxiu Zhu
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Qian Yin
- Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA.
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Braun NJ, Huber S, Schmacke LC, Heine A, Steinmetzer T. Boroleucine-Derived Covalent Inhibitors of the ZIKV Protease. ChemMedChem 2023; 18:e202200336. [PMID: 36325810 PMCID: PMC10100045 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202200336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The Zika virus (ZIKV) remains a potential threat to the public health due to the lack of both an approved vaccination or a specific treatment. In this work, a series of peptidic inhibitors of the ZIKV protease with boroleucine as P1 residue was synthesized. The highest affinities with Ki values down to 8 nM were observed for compounds with basic residues in both P2 and P3 position and at the N-terminus. The low potency of reference compounds containing leucine, leucine-amide or isopentylamide as P1 residue suggested a covalent binding mode of the boroleucine-derived inhibitors. This was finally proven by crystal structure determination of the most potent inhibitor from this series in complex with the ZIKV protease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas J. Braun
- Institute of Pharmaceutical ChemistryPhilipps University of MarburgMarbacher Weg 635032MarburgGermany
| | - Simon Huber
- Institute of Pharmaceutical ChemistryPhilipps University of MarburgMarbacher Weg 635032MarburgGermany
| | - Luna C. Schmacke
- Institute of Pharmaceutical ChemistryPhilipps University of MarburgMarbacher Weg 635032MarburgGermany
| | - Andreas Heine
- Institute of Pharmaceutical ChemistryPhilipps University of MarburgMarbacher Weg 635032MarburgGermany
| | - Torsten Steinmetzer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical ChemistryPhilipps University of MarburgMarbacher Weg 635032MarburgGermany
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Teramoto T, Choi KH, Padmanabhan R. Flavivirus proteases: The viral Achilles heel to prevent future pandemics. Antiviral Res 2023; 210:105516. [PMID: 36586467 PMCID: PMC10062209 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2022.105516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Flaviviruses are important human pathogens and include dengue (DENV), West Nile (WNV), Yellow fever virus (YFV), Japanese encephalitis (JEV) and Zika virus (ZIKV). DENV, transmitted by mosquitoes, causes diseases ranging in severity from mild dengue fever with non-specific flu-like symptoms to fatal dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. DENV infections are caused by four serotypes, DENV1-4, which interact differently with antibodies in blood serum. The incidence of DENV infection has increased dramatically in recent decades and the CDC estimates 400 million dengue infections occur each year, resulting in ∼25,000 deaths mostly among children and elderly people. Similarly, ZIKV infections are caused by infected mosquito bites to humans, can be transmitted sexually and through blood transfusions. If a pregnant woman is infected, the virus can cross the placental barrier and can spread to her fetus, causing severe brain malformations in the child including microcephaly and other birth defects. It is noteworthy that the neurological manifestations of ZIKV were also observed in DENV endemic regions, suggesting that pre-existing antibody response to DENV could augment ZIKV infection. WNV, previously unknown in the US (and known to cause only mild disease in Middle East), first arrived in New York city in 1999 (NY99) and spread throughout the US and Canada by Culex mosquitoes and birds. WNV is now endemic in North America. Thus, emerging and re-emerging flaviviruses are significant threat to human health. However, vaccines are available for only a limited number of flaviviruses, and antiviral therapies are not available for any flavivirus. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop therapeutics that interfere with essential enzymatic steps, such as protease in the flavivirus lifecycle as these viruses possess significant threat to future pandemics. In this review, we focus on our E. coli expression of NS2B hydrophilic domain (NS2BH) covalently linked to NS3 protease domain (NS3Pro) in their natural context which is processed by the combined action of both subunits of the NS2B-NS3Pro precursor. Biochemical activities of the viral protease such as solubility and autoproteolysis of NS2BH-NS3Pro linkage depended on the C-terminal portion of NS2BH linked to the NS3Pro domain. Since 2008, we also focus on the use of the recombinant protease in high throughput screens and characterization of small molecular compounds identified in these screens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadahisa Teramoto
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA.
| | - Kyung H Choi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47406, USA.
| | - Radhakrishnan Padmanabhan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA.
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25
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Murali A, Kumar S, Akshaya S, Singh SK. Drug repurposing toward the inhibition of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase of various flaviviruses through computational study. J Cell Biochem 2023; 124:127-145. [PMID: 36502494 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Numerous pathogens affecting human is present in the flavivirus family namely west nile, dengue, yellow fever, and zika which involves in development of global burden and distressing the environment economically. Till date, no approved drugs are available for targeting these viruses. The threat which urged the identification of small molecules for the inhibition of these viruses is the spreading of serious viral diseases. The recent outbreak of zika and dengue infections postured a solemn risk to worldwide public well-being. RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) is the supreme adaptable enzymes of all the RNA viruses which is responsible for the replication and transcription of genome among the structural and nonstructural proteins of flaviviruses. It is understood that the RdRp of the flaviviruses are similar stating that the japanese encephalitis and west nile shares 70% identity with zika whereas the dengue serotype 2 and 3 shares the identity of 76% and 81%, respectively. In this study, we investigated the binding site of four flaviviral RdRp and provided insights into various interaction of the molecules using the computational approach. Our study helps in recognizing the potent compounds that could inhibit the viral protein as a common inhibitor. Additionally, with the conformational stability analysis, we proposed the possible mechanism of inhibition of the identified common small molecule toward RdRp of flavivirus. Finally, this study could be an initiative for the identification of common inhibitors and can be explored further for understanding the mechanism of action through in vitro studies for the study on efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarthy Murali
- Computer Aided Drug Designing and Molecular Modeling Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sushil Kumar
- Computer Aided Drug Designing and Molecular Modeling Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Sanjeev K Singh
- Computer Aided Drug Designing and Molecular Modeling Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, India
- Department of Data Sciences, Centre of Biomedical Research, Sanjay Gandhi Post Institute of Medical Sciences Campus, Lucknow, India
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Mottin M, de Paula Sousa BK, de Moraes Roso Mesquita NC, de Oliveira KIZ, Noske GD, Sartori GR, de Oliveira Albuquerque A, Urbina F, Puhl AC, Moreira-Filho JT, Souza GE, Guido RV, Muratov E, Neves BJ, da Silva JHM, Clark AE, Siqueira-Neto JL, Perryman AL, Oliva G, Ekins S, Andrade CH. Discovery of New Zika Protease and Polymerase Inhibitors through the Open Science Collaboration Project OpenZika. J Chem Inf Model 2022; 62:6825-6843. [PMID: 36239304 PMCID: PMC9923514 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.2c00596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The Zika virus (ZIKV) is a neurotropic arbovirus considered a global threat to public health. Although there have been several efforts in drug discovery projects for ZIKV in recent years, there are still no antiviral drugs approved to date. Here, we describe the results of a global collaborative crowdsourced open science project, the OpenZika project, from IBM's World Community Grid (WCG), which integrates different computational and experimental strategies for advancing a drug candidate for ZIKV. Initially, molecular docking protocols were developed to identify potential inhibitors of ZIKV NS5 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (NS5 RdRp), NS3 protease (NS2B-NS3pro), and NS3 helicase (NS3hel). Then, a machine learning (ML) model was built to distinguish active vs inactive compounds for the cytoprotective effect against ZIKV infection. We performed three independent target-based virtual screening campaigns (NS5 RdRp, NS2B-NS3pro, and NS3hel), followed by predictions by the ML model and other filters, and prioritized a total of 61 compounds for further testing in enzymatic and phenotypic assays. This yielded five non-nucleoside compounds which showed inhibitory activity against ZIKV NS5 RdRp in enzymatic assays (IC50 range from 0.61 to 17 μM). Two compounds thermally destabilized NS3hel and showed binding affinity in the micromolar range (Kd range from 9 to 35 μM). Moreover, the compounds LabMol-301 inhibited both NS5 RdRp and NS2B-NS3pro (IC50 of 0.8 and 7.4 μM, respectively) and LabMol-212 thermally destabilized the ZIKV NS3hel (Kd of 35 μM). Both also protected cells from death induced by ZIKV infection in in vitro cell-based assays. However, while eight compounds (including LabMol-301 and LabMol-212) showed a cytoprotective effect and prevented ZIKV-induced cell death, agreeing with our ML model for prediction of this cytoprotective effect, no compound showed a direct antiviral effect against ZIKV. Thus, the new scaffolds discovered here are promising hits for future structural optimization and for advancing the discovery of further drug candidates for ZIKV. Furthermore, this work has demonstrated the importance of the integration of computational and experimental approaches, as well as the potential of large-scale collaborative networks to advance drug discovery projects for neglected diseases and emerging viruses, despite the lack of available direct antiviral activity and cytoprotective effect data, that reflects on the assertiveness of the computational predictions. The importance of these efforts rests with the need to be prepared for future viral epidemic and pandemic outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melina Mottin
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Drug Design (LabMol), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74605-170, Brazil
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Bruna Katiele de Paula Sousa
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Drug Design (LabMol), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74605-170, Brazil
| | | | | | - Gabriela Dias Noske
- São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, Avenida João Dagnone, 1100, São Carlos, São Paulo, 13563-120, Brazil
| | | | | | - Fabio Urbina
- Collaborations Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | - Ana C. Puhl
- Collaborations Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | - José Teófilo Moreira-Filho
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Drug Design (LabMol), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74605-170, Brazil
| | - Guilherme E. Souza
- São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, Avenida João Dagnone, 1100, São Carlos, São Paulo, 13563-120, Brazil
| | - Rafael V.C. Guido
- São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, Avenida João Dagnone, 1100, São Carlos, São Paulo, 13563-120, Brazil
| | - Eugene Muratov
- University of North Carolina - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599, USA
- Universidade Federal de Paraíba, Joao Pessoa, PB, 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Bruno Junior Neves
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Drug Design (LabMol), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74605-170, Brazil
| | | | - Alex E. Clark
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, 92093, USA
| | - Jair L. Siqueira-Neto
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, 92093, USA
| | - Alexander L. Perryman
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University–New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
- Repare Therapeutics, 7210 Rue Frederick-Banting, Suite 100, Montreal, QC, H4S 2A1, Canada
| | - Glaucius Oliva
- São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, Avenida João Dagnone, 1100, São Carlos, São Paulo, 13563-120, Brazil
| | - Sean Ekins
- Collaborations Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | - Carolina Horta Andrade
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Drug Design (LabMol), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74605-170, Brazil
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Santos LH, Caffarena ER, Ferreira RS. pH and non-covalent ligand binding modulate Zika virus NS2B/NS3 protease binding site residues: Discoveries from MD and constant pH MD simulations. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2022; 40:10359-10372. [PMID: 34180376 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.1943528] [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] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) is a global health concern and has been linked to severe neurological pathologies. Although no medication is available yet, many efforts to develop antivirals and host cell binding inhibitors led to attractive drug-like scaffolds, mainly targeting the nonstructural NS2B/NS3 protease (NS2B/NS3pro). NS2B/NS3pro active site has several titratable residues susceptible to pH changes and ligand binding; hence, understanding these residues' protonation is essential to drug design efforts targeting the active site. Here we use in silico methods to probe non-covalent binding and its effect on pKa shifts of the active site residues on a ligand-free protease and with a non-peptidic competitive inhibitor (Ki=13.5 µM). By applying constant pH molecular dynamics, we found that the catalytic residues of the unbound NS2B/NS3pro achieved the protonation needed for the serine protease mechanism over the pH value of 8.5. Nevertheless, the protease in the holo state achieved this same scenario at lower pH values. Also, non-covalent binding affected the catalytic triad (H51, D75, and S135) by stabilizing their distances and interaction network. Thus, NS2B/NS3pro residues configuration for activity might be both pH-dependent and influenced by ligand binding. However, compound presence within the binding site destabilized the NS2B, interfering with the closed and active conformation necessary for substrate binding and catalysis. Our outcomes provide valuable insights into non-covalent inhibitor behavior and its effect on protease active site residues, impacting optimization and design of novel compounds. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucianna H Santos
- Laboratório de Modelagem Molecular e Planejamento de Fármacos, Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ernesto R Caffarena
- Grupo de Biofísica Computacional e Modelagem Molecular, Programa de Computação Científica, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rafaela S Ferreira
- Laboratório de Modelagem Molecular e Planejamento de Fármacos, Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Hammerschmidt SJ, Huber S, Braun NJ, Lander M, Steinmetzer T, Kersten C. Thermodynamic characterization of a macrocyclic Zika virus NS2B/NS3 protease inhibitor and its acyclic analogs. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2022; 356:e2200518. [PMID: 36480352 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202200518] [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: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cyclization of small molecules is a widely applied strategy in drug design for ligand optimization to improve affinity, as it eliminates the putative need for structural preorganization of the ligand before binding, or to improve pharmacokinetic properties. In this work, we provide a deeper insight into the binding thermodynamics of a macrocyclic Zika virus NS2B/NS3 protease inhibitor and its linear analogs. Characterization of the thermodynamic binding profiles by isothermal titration calorimetry experiments revealed an unfavorable entropy of the macrocycle compared to the open linear reference ligands. Molecular dynamic simulations and X-ray crystal structure analysis indicated only minor benefits from macrocyclization to fixate a favorable conformation, while linear ligands retained some flexibility even in the protein-bound complex structure, possibly explaining the initially surprising effect of a higher entropic penalty for the macrocyclic ligand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan J Hammerschmidt
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Simon Huber
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Niklas J Braun
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Marc Lander
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Torsten Steinmetzer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Christian Kersten
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
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Evaluation of Zika virus DNA vaccines based on NS1 and domain III of E. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 113:109308. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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30
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Structure-based design of a novel inhibitor of the ZIKA virus NS2B/NS3 protease. Bioorg Chem 2022; 128:106109. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.106109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Ci Y, Yao B, Yue K, Yang Y, Xu C, Li DF, Qin CF, Shi L. Bortezomib inhibits ZIKV/DENV by interfering with viral polyprotein cleavage via the ERAD pathway. Cell Chem Biol 2022; 30:527-539.e5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2022.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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de Paula Junior VF, van Tilburg MF, Morais PA, Júnior FFM, Lima EG, Oliveira VTDS, Guedes MIF, Caetano EWS, Freire VN. Quantum Biochemistry and MM-PBSA Description of the ZIKV NS2B-NS3 Protease: Insights into the Binding Interactions beyond the Catalytic Triad Pocket. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231710088. [PMID: 36077486 PMCID: PMC9456192 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231710088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Zika virus protease NS2B-NS3 has a binding site formed with the participation of a H51-D75-S135 triad presenting two forms, active and inactive. Studies suggest that the inactive conformation is a good target for the design of inhibitors. In this paper, we evaluated the co-crystallized structures of the protease with the inhibitors benzoic acid (5YOD) and benzimidazole-1-ylmethanol (5H4I). We applied a protocol consisting of two steps: first, classical molecular mechanics energy minimization followed by classical molecular dynamics were performed, obtaining stabilized molecular geometries; second, the optimized/relaxed geometries were used in quantum biochemistry and molecular mechanics/Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM-PBSA) calculations to estimate the ligand interactions with each amino acid residue of the binding pocket. We show that the quantum-level results identified essential residues for the stabilization of the 5YOD and 5H4I complexes after classical energy minimization, matching previously published experimental data. The same success, however, was not observed for the MM-PBSA simulations. The application of quantum biochemistry methods seems to be more promising for the design of novel inhibitors acting on NS2B-NS3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valdir Ferreira de Paula Junior
- Biotechnology & Molecular Biology Laboratory, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60714-903, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-859-8541-8255
| | | | - Pablo Abreu Morais
- Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Ceará, Campus Horizonte, Horizonte 62884-105, Brazil
| | - Francisco Franciné Maia Júnior
- Departamento de Ciências Naturais, Matemática e Estatística, Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido, Mossoró 59625-900, Brazil
| | - Elza Gadelha Lima
- Laboratório Central de Saúde Pública do Ceará (LACEN), Fortaleza 60120-002, Brazil
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Zu S, Li C, Li L, Deng YQ, Chen X, Luo D, Ye Q, Huang YJ, Li XF, Zhang RR, Sun N, Zhang X, Aliyari SR, Nielsen-Saines K, Jung JU, Yang H, Qin CF, Cheng G. TRIM22 suppresses Zika virus replication by targeting NS1 and NS3 for proteasomal degradation. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:139. [PMID: 36042495 PMCID: PMC9429444 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00872-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recognition of viral invasion by innate antiviral immune system triggers activation of the type I interferon (IFN-I) and proinflammatory signaling pathways. Subsequently, IFN-I induction regulates expression of a group of genes known as IFN-I-stimulated genes (ISGs) to block viral infection. The tripartite motif containing 22 (TRIM22) is an ISG with strong antiviral functions. Results Here we have shown that the TRIM22 has been strongly upregulated both transcriptionally and translationally upon Zika virus (ZIKV) infection. ZIKV infection is associated with a wide range of clinical manifestations in human from mild to severe symptoms including abnormal fetal brain development. We found that the antiviral function of TRIM22 plays a crucial role in counterattacking ZIKV infection. Overexpression of TRIM22 protein inhibited ZIKV growth whereas deletion of TRIM22 in host cells increased ZIKV infectivity. Mechanistically, TRIM22, as a functional E3 ubiquitin ligase, promoted the ubiquitination and degradation of ZIKV nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) and nonstructural protein 3 (NS3). Further studies showed that the SPRY domain and Ring domain of TRIM22 played important roles in protein interaction and degradation, respectively. In addition, we found that TRIM22 also inhibited other flaviviruses infection including dengue virus (DENV) and yellow fever virus (YFV). Conclusion Thus, TRIM22 is an ISG with important role in host defense against flaviviruses through binding and degradation of the NS1 and NS3 proteins. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13578-022-00872-w.
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Kumar A, Kumar D, Jose J, Giri R, Mysorekar IU. Drugs to limit Zika virus infection and implication for maternal-fetal health. FRONTIERS IN VIROLOGY 2022; 2. [PMID: 37064602 PMCID: PMC10104533 DOI: 10.3389/fviro.2022.928599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Although the placenta has robust defense mechanisms that protect the fetus from a viral infection, some viruses can manipulate or evade these mechanisms and disrupt physiology or cross the placental barrier. It is well established that the Zika virus is capable of vertical transmission from mother to fetus and can cause malformation of the fetal central nervous system (i.e., microcephaly), as well as Guillain-Barre syndrome in adults. This review seeks to gather and assess the contributions of translational research associated with Zika virus infection, including maternal-fetal vertical transmission of the virus. Nearly 200 inhibitors that have been evaluated in vivo and/or in vitro for their therapeutic properties against the Zika virus are summarized in this review. We also review the status of current vaccine candidates. Our main objective is to provide clinically relevant information that can guide future research directions and strategies for optimized treatment and preventive care of infections caused by Zika virus or similar pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankur Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, VPO-Kamand, Mandi, India
| | - Deepak Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Joyce Jose
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, State College, United States
| | - Rajanish Giri
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, VPO-Kamand, Mandi, India
| | - Indira U. Mysorekar
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- CORRESPONDENCE Indira U. Mysorekar,
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Li K, Ji Q, Jiang S, Zhang N. Advancement in the Development of Therapeutics Against Zika Virus Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:946957. [PMID: 35880081 PMCID: PMC9307976 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.946957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV), a re-emerging arbovirus, causes teratogenic effects on the fetus and normal nerve functions, resulting in harmful autoimmune responses, which call for the development of therapeutics against ZIKV infection. In this review, we introduce the pathogenesis of ZIKV infection and summarize the advancement in the development of therapeutics against ZIKV infection. It provides guidance for the development of effective therapeutics against ZIKV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangchen Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qianting Ji
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shibo Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of Ministry of Education (MOE), National Health Commission (NHC) and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS), School of Basic Medical Sciences and Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Shibo Jiang, ; Naru Zhang,
| | - Naru Zhang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Shibo Jiang, ; Naru Zhang,
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Pant S, Jena NR. C-Terminal Extended Hexapeptides as Potent Inhibitors of the NS2B-NS3 Protease of the ZIKA Virus. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:921060. [PMID: 35872792 PMCID: PMC9306491 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.921060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The Zika virus (ZIKV) protease is an attractive drug target for the design of novel inhibitors to control the ZIKV infection. As the protease substrate-binding site contains acidic residues, inhibitors with basic residues can be beneficial for the inhibition of protease activities. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and molecular mechanics with generalized Born and surface area solvation (MM/GBSA) techniques are employed herein to design potent peptide inhibitors and to understand the nature of the basic residues that can potentially stabilize the acidic residues of the protease substrate-binding site. It is found that the inclusion of K, R, and K at P1, P2, and P3 positions, respectively, and Y at the P4 position (YKRK) would generate a highly stable tetrapeptide-protease complex with a ΔGbind of ~ −80 kcal/mol. We have also shown that the C-terminal extension of this and the second most stable tetrapeptide (YRRR) with small polar residues, such as S and T would generate even more stable hexapeptide-protease complexes. The modes of interactions of these inhibitors are discussed in detail, which are in agreement with earlier experimental studies. Thus, this study is expected to aid in the design of novel antiviral drugs against the ZIKV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyash Pant
- Department of Pharmacoinformatics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Kolkata, India
| | - Nihar R. Jena
- Discipline of Natural Sciences, Indian Institute of Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing, Jabalpur, India
- *Correspondence: Nihar R. Jena
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Dynamic Interactions of Post Cleaved NS2B Cofactor and NS3 Protease Identified by Integrative Structural Approaches. Viruses 2022; 14:v14071440. [PMID: 35891424 PMCID: PMC9323329 DOI: 10.3390/v14071440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Diseases caused by flaviviruses such as dengue virus (DENV) and West Nile Virus (WNV), are a serious threat to public health. The flavivirus single-stranded RNA genome is translated into a polyprotein which is cleaved into three structural proteins and seven non-structural proteins by the viral and cellular proteases. Non-structural (NS) protein 3 is a multifunctional protein that has N-terminal protease and C-terminal helicase domains. The NS3 protease requires co-factor NS2B for enzymatic activity and folding. Due to its essential role in viral replication, NS2B-NS3 protease is an attractive target for antiviral drugs. Despite the availability of crystal structures, dynamic interactions of the N- and C-termini of NS2B co-factor have been elusive due to their flexible fold. In this study, we employ integrative structural approaches combined with biochemical assays to elucidate the dynamic interactions of the flexible DENV4 NS2B and NS3 N- and C-termini. We captured the crystal structure of self-cleaved DENV4 NS2B47NS3 protease in post cleavage state. The intermediate conformation adopted in the reported structure can be targeted by allosteric inhibitors. Comparison of our new findings from DENV4 against previously studied ZIKV NS2B-NS3 proteins reveals differences in NS2B-NS3 function between the two viruses. No inhibition of protease activity was observed for unlinked DENV NS2B-NS3 in presence of the cleavage site while ZIKV NS2B-NS3 cleavage inhibits protease activity. Another difference is that binding of the NS2B C-terminus to DENV4 eNS2B47NS3Pro active site is mediated via interactions with P4-P6 residues while for ZIKV, the binding of NS2B C-terminus to active site is mediated by P1-P3 residues. The mapping of NS2B N- and C-termini with NS3 indicates that these intermolecular interactions occur mainly on the beta-barrel 2 of the NS3 protease domain. Our integrative approach enables a comprehensive understanding of the folding and dynamic interactions of DENV NS3 protease and its cofactor NS2B.
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Mirza MU, Alanko I, Vanmeert M, Muzzarelli KM, Salo-Ahen OMH, Abdullah I, Kovari IA, Claes S, De Jonghe S, Schols D, Schinazi RF, Kovari LC, Trant JF, Ahmad S, Froeyen M. The discovery of Zika virus NS2B-NS3 inhibitors with antiviral activity via an integrated virtual screening approach. Eur J Pharm Sci 2022; 175:106220. [PMID: 35618201 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2022.106220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
With expanding recent outbreaks and a lack of treatment options, the Zika virus (ZIKV) poses a severe health concern. The availability of ZIKV NS2B-NS3 co-crystallized structures paved the way for rational drug discovery. A computer-aided structure-based approach was used to screen a diverse library of compounds against ZIKV NS2B-NS3 protease. The top hits were selected based on various binding free energy calculations followed by per-residue decomposition analysis. The selected hits were then evaluated for their biological potential with ZIKV protease inhibition assay and antiviral activity. Among 26 selected compounds, 8 compounds showed promising activity against ZIKV protease with a percentage inhibition of greater than 25 and 3 compounds displayed ∼50% at 10 µM, which indicates an enrichment rate of approximately 36% (threshold IC50 < 10 µM) in the ZIKV-NS2B-NS3 protease inhibition assay. Of these, only one compound (23) produced whole-cell anti-ZIKV activity, and the binding mode of 23 was extensively analyzed through long-run molecular dynamics simulations. The current study provides a promising starting point for the further development of novel compounds against ZIKV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Usman Mirza
- KU Leuven, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry, Herestraat 49, box 1041, Leuven 3000, Belgium; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor N9B 3P4, ON, Canada
| | - Ida Alanko
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Pharmacy, Åbo Akademi University, FI-20520 Turku, Finland; Structural Bioinformatics Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Biochemistry, Åbo Akademi University, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Michiel Vanmeert
- KU Leuven, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry, Herestraat 49, box 1041, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Kendall M Muzzarelli
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit 48201, MI, USA
| | - Outi M H Salo-Ahen
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Pharmacy, Åbo Akademi University, FI-20520 Turku, Finland; Structural Bioinformatics Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Biochemistry, Åbo Akademi University, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Iskandar Abdullah
- Drug Design Development Research Group, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Iulia A Kovari
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit 48201, MI, USA
| | - Sandra Claes
- KU Leuven, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Herestraat 49, box 1043, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Steven De Jonghe
- KU Leuven, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Herestraat 49, box 1043, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dominique Schols
- KU Leuven, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, Herestraat 49, box 1043, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Raymond F Schinazi
- Center for AIDS Research, Laboratory of Biochemical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta 30322, GA, USA
| | - Ladislau C Kovari
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit 48201, MI, USA
| | - John F Trant
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor, Windsor N9B 3P4, ON, Canada
| | - Sarfraz Ahmad
- Drug Design Development Research Group, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Matheus Froeyen
- KU Leuven, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry, Herestraat 49, box 1041, Leuven 3000, Belgium.
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Hsu JCC, Laurent-Rolle M, Pawlak JB, Xia H, Kunte A, Hee JS, Lim J, Harris LD, Wood JM, Evans GB, Shi PY, Grove TL, Almo SC, Cresswell P. Viperin triggers ribosome collision-dependent translation inhibition to restrict viral replication. Mol Cell 2022; 82:1631-1642.e6. [PMID: 35316659 PMCID: PMC9081181 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Innate immune responses induce hundreds of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). Viperin, a member of the radical S-adenosyl methionine (SAM) superfamily of enzymes, is the product of one such ISG that restricts the replication of a broad spectrum of viruses. Here, we report a previously unknown antiviral mechanism in which viperin activates a ribosome collision-dependent pathway that inhibits both cellular and viral RNA translation. We found that the radical SAM activity of viperin is required for translation inhibition and that this is mediated by viperin's enzymatic product, 3'-deoxy-3',4'-didehydro-CTP (ddhCTP). Viperin triggers ribosome collisions and activates the MAPKKK ZAK pathway that in turn activates the GCN2 arm of the integrated stress response pathway to inhibit translation. The study illustrates the importance of translational repression in the antiviral response and identifies viperin as a translation regulator in innate immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Chun-Chieh Hsu
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Maudry Laurent-Rolle
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Joanna B Pawlak
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Hongjie Xia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Amit Kunte
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Jia Shee Hee
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Jaechul Lim
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Lawrence D Harris
- The Ferrier Research Institute, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6012, New Zealand; The Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - James M Wood
- The Ferrier Research Institute, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6012, New Zealand; The Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Gary B Evans
- The Ferrier Research Institute, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6012, New Zealand; The Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Pei-Yong Shi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Sealy Institute for Vaccine Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Sealy Institute for Drug Discovery, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Tyler L Grove
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Steven C Almo
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Peter Cresswell
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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Huber S, Braun NJ, Schmacke LC, Quek JP, Murra R, Bender D, Hildt E, Luo D, Heine A, Steinmetzer T. Structure-Based Optimization and Characterization of Macrocyclic Zika Virus NS2B-NS3 Protease Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2022; 65:6555-6572. [PMID: 35475620 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) is a human pathogenic arbovirus. So far, neither a specific treatment nor a vaccination against ZIKV infections has been approved. Starting from our previously described lead structure, a series of 29 new macrocyclic inhibitors of the Zika virus protease containing different linker motifs have been synthesized. By selecting hydrophobic d-amino acids as part of the linker, numerous inhibitors with Ki values < 5 nM were obtained. For 12 inhibitors, crystal structures in complex with the ZIKV protease up to 1.30 Å resolution were determined, which contribute to the understanding of the observed structure-activity relationship (SAR). In immunofluorescence assays, an antiviral effect was observed for compound 26 containing a d-homocyclohexylalanine residue in its linker segment. Due to its excellent selectivity profile and low cytotoxicity, this inhibitor scaffold could be a suitable starting point for the development of peptidic drugs against the Zika virus and related flaviviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Huber
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps University of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 6, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Niklas J Braun
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps University of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 6, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Luna C Schmacke
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps University of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 6, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Jun Ping Quek
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921.,NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 06-01, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921
| | - Robin Murra
- Federal Institute for Vaccines and Biomedicines, Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 51-59, 63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Daniela Bender
- Federal Institute for Vaccines and Biomedicines, Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 51-59, 63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Eberhard Hildt
- Federal Institute for Vaccines and Biomedicines, Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Straße 51-59, 63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Dahai Luo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 03-07, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921.,NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, EMB 06-01, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921.,School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637551
| | - Andreas Heine
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps University of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 6, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Torsten Steinmetzer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps University of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 6, 35032 Marburg, Germany
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Discovery of Bispecific Lead Compounds from Azadirachta indica against ZIKA NS2B-NS3 Protease and NS5 RNA Dependent RNA Polymerase Using Molecular Simulations. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27082562. [PMID: 35458761 PMCID: PMC9025849 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27082562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) has been characterized as one of many potential pathogens and placed under future epidemic outbreaks by the WHO. However, a lack of potential therapeutics can result in an uncontrolled pandemic as with other human pandemic viruses. Therefore, prioritized effective therapeutics development has been recommended against ZIKV. In this context, the present study adopted a strategy to explore the lead compounds from Azadirachta indica against ZIKV via concurrent inhibition of the NS2B-NS3 protease (ZIKVpro) and NS5 RNA dependent RNA polymerase (ZIKVRdRp) proteins using molecular simulations. Initially, structure-based virtual screening of 44 bioflavonoids reported in Azadirachta indica against the crystal structures of targeted ZIKV proteins resulted in the identification of the top four common bioflavonoids, viz. Rutin, Nicotiflorin, Isoquercitrin, and Hyperoside. These compounds showed substantial docking energy (−7.9 to −11.01 kcal/mol) and intermolecular interactions with essential residues of ZIKVpro (B:His51, B:Asp75, and B:Ser135) and ZIKVRdRp (Asp540, Ile799, and Asp665) by comparison to the reference compounds, O7N inhibitor (ZIKVpro) and Sofosbuvir inhibitor (ZIKVRdRp). Besides, long interval molecular dynamics simulation (500 ns) on the selected docked poses reveals stability of the respective docked poses contributed by intermolecular hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. The predicted complex stability was further supported by calculated end-point binding free energy using molecular mechanics generalized born surface area (MM/GBSA) method. Consequently, the identified common bioflavonoids are recommended as promising therapeutic inhibitors of ZIKVpro and ZIKVRdRp against ZIKV for further experimental assessment.
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Regla-Nava JA, Wang YT, Fontes-Garfias CR, Liu Y, Syed T, Susantono M, Gonzalez A, Viramontes KM, Verma SK, Kim K, Landeras-Bueno S, Huang CT, Prigozhin DM, Gleeson JG, Terskikh AV, Shi PY, Shresta S. A Zika virus mutation enhances transmission potential and confers escape from protective dengue virus immunity. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110655. [PMID: 35417697 PMCID: PMC9093040 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) and dengue virus (DENV) are arthropod-borne pathogenic flaviviruses that co-circulate in many countries. To understand some of the pressures that influence ZIKV evolution, we mimic the natural transmission cycle by repeating serial passaging of ZIKV through cultured mosquito cells and either DENV-naive or DENV-immune mice. Compared with wild-type ZIKV, the strains passaged under both conditions exhibit increased pathogenesis in DENV-immune mice. Application of reverse genetics identifies an isoleucine-to-valine mutation (I39V) in the NS2B proteins of both passaged strains that confers enhanced fitness and escape from pre-existing DENV immunity. Introduction of I39V or I39T, a naturally occurring homologous mutation detected in recent ZIKV isolates, increases the replication of wild-type ZIKV in human neuronal precursor cells and laboratory-raised mosquitoes. Our data indicate that ZIKV strains with enhanced transmissibility and pathogenicity can emerge in DENV-naive or -immune settings, and that NS2B-I39 mutants may represent ZIKV variants of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Angel Regla-Nava
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Ying-Ting Wang
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Camila R Fontes-Garfias
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Sealy Institute for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Sealy Center for Structural Biology and Molecular Biophysics, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Sealy Institute for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Sealy Center for Structural Biology and Molecular Biophysics, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Thasneem Syed
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Mercylia Susantono
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Andrew Gonzalez
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Karla M Viramontes
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Shailendra Kumar Verma
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Kenneth Kim
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Sara Landeras-Bueno
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Chun-Teng Huang
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Daniil M Prigozhin
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrative Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Joseph G Gleeson
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Rady Children's Institute of Genomic Medicine, Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Alexey V Terskikh
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Pei-Yong Shi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Sealy Institute for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Sealy Center for Structural Biology and Molecular Biophysics, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA.
| | - Sujan Shresta
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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Li Z, Xu J, Lang Y, Wu X, Hu S, Samrat SK, Tharappel AM, Kuo L, Butler D, Song Y, Zhang QY, Zhou J, Li H. In vitro and in vivo characterization of erythrosin B and derivatives against Zika virus. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:1662-1670. [PMID: 35847519 PMCID: PMC9279632 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) causes significant human diseases without specific therapy. Previously we found erythrosin B, an FDA-approved food additive, inhibited viral NS2B−NS3 interactions, leading to inhibition of ZIKV infection in cell culture. In this study, we performed pharmacokinetic and in vivo studies to demonstrate the efficacy of erythrosin B against ZIKV in 3D mini-brain organoid and mouse models. Our results showed that erythrosin B is very effective in abolishing ZIKV replication in the 3D organoid model. Although pharmacokinetics studies indicated that erythrosin B had a low absorption profile, mice challenged by a lethal dose of ZIKV showed a significantly improved survival rate upon oral administration of erythrosin B, compared to vehicle control. Limited structure−activity relationship studies indicated that most analogs of erythrosin B with modifications on the xanthene ring led to loss or reduction of inhibitory activities towards viral NS2B−NS3 interactions, protease activity and antiviral efficacy. In contrast, introducing chlorine substitutions on the isobenzofuran ring led to slightly increased activities, suggesting that the isobenzofuran ring is well tolerated for modifications. Cytotoxicity studies indicated that all derivatives are nontoxic to human cells. Overall, our studies demonstrated erythrosin B is an effective antiviral against ZIKV both in vitro and in vivo.
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44
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Huang Q, Ng EY, Li Q, Kang C. 1 H, 15 N and 13 C resonance assignments of the Q61H mutant of human KRAS bound to GDP. BIOMOLECULAR NMR ASSIGNMENTS 2022; 16:51-56. [PMID: 34787842 DOI: 10.1007/s12104-021-10058-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
KRAS proteins are small GTPases binding to the cell membrane and playing important roles in signal transduction. KRAS proteins form complexes with GTP and GDP to result in active and inactive conformations favouring interactions with different proteins. Mutations in KRAS have impact on the GTPase activity and some mutants are related to certain types of cancers. In addition to mutation at position 12, the Q61H mutant is also identified as an oncogenic mutant. Here, we describe resonance assignment for Q61H mutant of human KRAS-4B. A construct containing 1-169 residues of KRAS with a point mutation at position 61 (Q to H) was made for solution NMR studies. The backbone and some side chain resonance assignments were obtained using conventional multi-dimensional experiments. The secondary structures were analysed based on the assigned residues. As NMR is a powerful tool in probing target and ligand interactions, the assignment will be useful for later compound binding studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiwei Huang
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 10 Biopolis Road, Chromos, 05-01, 138670, Singapore
| | - Elizabeth Yihui Ng
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 10 Biopolis Road, Chromos, 05-01, 138670, Singapore
| | - Qingxin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Biomass High Value Utilization, Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510316, China
| | - CongBao Kang
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 10 Biopolis Road, Chromos, 05-01, 138670, Singapore.
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Penna BR, de Oliveira DMP, Anobom CD, Valente AP. Backbone 1H, 15N, and 13C resonance assignments of the non-structural protein NS2B of Zika virus. BIOMOLECULAR NMR ASSIGNMENTS 2022; 16:31-35. [PMID: 34817802 DOI: 10.1007/s12104-021-10055-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) emerged as a global public health concern due to its relationship with severe neurological disorders. Non-structural (NS) proteins of ZIKV are essential for viral replication, regulatory function, and subversion of host responses. NS2B is a membrane protein responsible for the regulation of viral protease activity. This protein has transmembrane domains critical for the localization of viral protease to the endoplasmic reticulum membrane and a hydrophilic domain essential for folding, recruitment, and protease activity. Therefore, NS2B is considered a cofactor of viral protease which processes viral polyprotein and is essential for virus replication, making it an attractive antiviral drug target. Here, we report the backbone 1H, 15N, 13C resonance assignments of the full-length NS2B by high-resolution NMR. The backbone assignment will be necessary for determining the three-dimensional structure and backbone dynamics of NS2B, interaction mapping and screening potential of antiviral drugs against ZIKV and related pathogenic flaviviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Rosa Penna
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry (IBqM), National Center of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Jiri Jonas, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- National Center of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (CNRMN), Center for Structural Biology and Bioimaging (CENABIO), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Danielle Maria P de Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Dinis Anobom
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Valente
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry (IBqM), National Center of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Jiri Jonas, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- National Center of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (CNRMN), Center for Structural Biology and Bioimaging (CENABIO), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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Ng HQ, Li Q, Kang C. 1H, 13C and 15N resonance assignments of the first BIR domain of cellular inhibitor of apoptosis protein 1. BIOMOLECULAR NMR ASSIGNMENTS 2022; 16:91-95. [PMID: 35061233 DOI: 10.1007/s12104-022-10065-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cellular inhibitor of apoptosis protein-1 (cIAP-1) is member of inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) which can affect apoptosis through interactions with caspases. cIAP-1 is a multi-domain protein and able to regulate apoptosis through interactions with proteins such as caspases and possesses E3 ligase activity. Human cIAP-1 contains three baculovirus IAP repeat (BIR) domains which are critical for protein-protein interactions. Here, we report NMR resonance assignments of the first BIR domain of human cIAP. Its secondary structures in solution were determined based on the assigned resonances. The dynamics of this domain was obtained, and our hydrogen-deuterium exchange experiment reveals that the first helix in BIR1 is exposed to the solvent. The availability of assignments of backbone and side chain resonances will be useful for probing protein-protein interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Qi Ng
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138670, Singapore
| | - Qingxin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Biomass High Value Utilization, Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510316, China
| | - Congbao Kang
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138670, Singapore.
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Li Q, Kang C. Structures and Dynamics of Dengue Virus Nonstructural Membrane Proteins. MEMBRANES 2022; 12:231. [PMID: 35207152 PMCID: PMC8880049 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12020231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Dengue virus is an important human pathogen threating people, especially in tropical and sub-tropical regions. The viral genome has one open reading frame and encodes one polyprotein which can be processed into structural and nonstructural (NS) proteins. Four of the seven nonstructural proteins, NS2A, NS2B, NS4A and NS4B, are membrane proteins. Unlike NS3 or NS5, these proteins do not harbor any enzymatic activities, but they play important roles in viral replication through interactions with viral or host proteins to regulate important pathways and enzymatic activities. The location of these proteins on the cell membrane and the functional roles in viral replication make them important targets for antiviral development. Indeed, NS4B inhibitors exhibit antiviral activities in different assays. Structural studies of these proteins are hindered due to challenges in crystallization and the dynamic nature of these proteins. In this review, the function and membrane topologies of dengue nonstructural membrane proteins are presented. The roles of solution NMR spectroscopy in elucidating the structure and dynamics of these proteins are introduced. The success in the development of NS4B inhibitors proves that this class of proteins is an attractive target for antiviral development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingxin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Biomass High Value Utilization, Institute of Biological and Medical Engineering, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510316, China
| | - Congbao Kang
- Experimental Drug Development Centre, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 10 Biopolis Road, #5-01, Singapore 138670, Singapore
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Miao J, Yuan H, Rao J, Zou J, Yang K, Peng G, Cao S, Chen H, Song Y. Identification of a small compound that specifically inhibits Zika virus in vitro and in vivo by targeting the NS2B-NS3 protease. Antiviral Res 2022; 199:105255. [PMID: 35143853 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2022.105255] [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: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) has rapid become a global threat, but no ZIKV-specific vaccines or drugs are currently available. In this study, inhibitors of ZIKV NS2B-NS3 protease were screened from a library containing 4,452 compound fragments. One of the compounds, 6-bromo-1,2-naphthalenedione, exhibited high specific inhibition against ZIKV NS2B-NS3 protease, but had no inhibitory effects against other viral proteases. A microscale thermophoresis (MST) assay confirmed that the compound bound to ZIKV NS2B-NS3 protein with a binding constant (Kd) of 12.26 μM. Indirect immunofluorescence assays, Western blots, and plaque assays indicated that the compound inhibited virus replication in cells. Virus titer was reduced by more than 75% when the compound was present at 1 μM. A time-of-addition assay showed that inhibition occurred at the virus replication stage, but not at the adsorption or invasion stages. The half cytotoxicity concentration (CC50) of the compound on HeLa, Vero, and BHK-21 cells were 445.44 μM, 123.87 μM, and 123.64 μM, respectively. In vivo tests using infected AG129 mice demonstrated that treatment with the compound reduced mortality by up to 60%. Mice treated with the compound showed a reduction in histopathological lesions in brain, testis, and ovary. Viral RNA, IL-1β, and IL-6 mRNA levels decreased significantly in these tissues. In summary, this study has identified a small compound with high and specific inhibitory effects on ZIKV. The compound can be used as a therapeutic agent and is also an ideal starting point for drug optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; College of Animal Science, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Honggen Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; College of Animal Science, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Jingwei Rao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; College of Animal Science, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Jiahui Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; College of Animal Science, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Kelu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; College of Animal Science, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Guiqing Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; College of Animal Science, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Shengbo Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; College of Animal Science, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Huanchun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; College of Animal Science, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Yunfeng Song
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; College of Animal Science, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
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Santos NP, Santos LH, Torquato Quezado de Magalhães M, Lei J, Hilgenfeld R, Salgado Ferreira R, Bleicher L. Characterization of an Allosteric Pocket in Zika Virus NS2B-NS3 Protease. J Chem Inf Model 2022; 62:945-957. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.1c01326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Naiá Porã Santos
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Lucianna Helene Santos
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Mariana Torquato Quezado de Magalhães
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Jian Lei
- Institute of Biochemistry, Center for Structural and Cell Biology in Medicine, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, Lübeck 23562, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Site, University of Lübeck, Lübeck 23562, Germany
| | - Rolf Hilgenfeld
- Institute of Biochemistry, Center for Structural and Cell Biology in Medicine, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, Lübeck 23562, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems Site, University of Lübeck, Lübeck 23562, Germany
| | - Rafaela Salgado Ferreira
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Lucas Bleicher
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Avenida Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil
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Abstract
Viral proteases are diverse in structure, oligomeric state, catalytic mechanism, and substrate specificity. This chapter focuses on proteases from viruses that are relevant to human health: human immunodeficiency virus subtype 1 (HIV-1), hepatitis C (HCV), human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1), flaviviruses, enteroviruses, and coronaviruses. The proteases of HIV-1 and HCV have been successfully targeted for therapeutics, with picomolar FDA-approved drugs currently used in the clinic. The proteases of HTLV-1 and the other virus families remain emerging therapeutic targets at different stages of the drug development process. This chapter provides an overview of the current knowledge on viral protease structure, mechanism, substrate recognition, and inhibition. Particular focus is placed on recent advances in understanding the molecular basis of diverse substrate recognition and resistance, which is essential toward designing novel protease inhibitors as antivirals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueto Zephyr
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Nese Kurt Yilmaz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Celia A Schiffer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States.
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