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Žunec S, Vadlja D, Ramić A, Zandona A, Maraković N, Brekalo I, Primožič I, Katalinić M. Profiling Novel Quinuclidine-Based Derivatives as Potential Anticholinesterase Drugs: Enzyme Inhibition and Effects on Cell Viability. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:155. [PMID: 38203326 PMCID: PMC10778980 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010155] [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: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The cholinergic system, relying on the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh), plays a significant role in muscle contraction, cognition, and autonomic nervous system regulation. The enzymes acetylcholinesterase, AChE, and butyrylcholinesterase, BChE, responsible for hydrolyzing ACh, can fine-tune the cholinergic system's activity and are, therefore, excellent pharmacological targets to address a range of medical conditions. We designed, synthesized, and profiled 14 N-alkyl quaternary quinuclidines as inhibitors of human AChE and BChE and analyzed their impact on cell viability to assess their safety in the context of application as potential therapeutics. Our results showed that all of the 14 tested quinuclidines inhibited both AChE and BChE in the micromolar range (Ki = 0.26 - 156.2 μM). The highest inhibition potency was observed for two bisquaternary derivatives, 7 (1,1'-(decano)bis(3-hydroxyquinuclidinium bromide)) and 14 (1,1'-(decano)bis(3-hydroxyiminoquinuclidinium bromide)). The cytotoxic effect within 7-200 μM was observed only for monoquaternary quinuclidine derivatives, especially those with the C12-C16 alkyl chain. Further analysis revealed a time-independent mechanism of action, significant LDH release, and a decrease in the cells' mitochondrial membrane potential. Taking all results into consideration, we can confirm that a quinuclidine core presents a good scaffold for cholinesterase binding and that two bisquaternary quinuclidine derivatives could be considered as candidates worth further investigations as drugs acting in the cholinergic system. On the other hand, specific cell-related effects probably triggered by the free long alkyl chain in monoquaternary quinuclidine derivatives should not be neglected in future N-alkyl quaternary quinuclidine derivative structure refinements. Such an effect and their potential to interact with other specific targets, as indicated by a pharmacophore model, open up a new perspective for future investigations of these compounds' scaffold in the treatment of specific conditions and diseases other than cholinergic system-linked disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzana Žunec
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (S.Ž.); (A.Z.); (N.M.)
| | - Donna Vadlja
- Armed Forces of the Republic of Croatia, Trg Kralja Petra Krešimira IV br. 1, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Alma Ramić
- Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Horvatovac 102a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.R.); (I.B.); (I.P.)
| | - Antonio Zandona
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (S.Ž.); (A.Z.); (N.M.)
| | - Nikola Maraković
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (S.Ž.); (A.Z.); (N.M.)
| | - Iva Brekalo
- Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Horvatovac 102a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.R.); (I.B.); (I.P.)
| | - Ines Primožič
- Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Horvatovac 102a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.R.); (I.B.); (I.P.)
| | - Maja Katalinić
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska c. 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (S.Ž.); (A.Z.); (N.M.)
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Picón DF, Skouta R. Unveiling the Therapeutic Potential of Squalene Synthase: Deciphering Its Biochemical Mechanism, Disease Implications, and Intriguing Ties to Ferroptosis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3731. [PMID: 37509391 PMCID: PMC10378455 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15143731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Squalene synthase (SQS) has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for various diseases, including cancers, owing to its pivotal role in the mevalonate pathway and the antioxidant properties of squalene. Primarily, SQS orchestrates the head-to-head condensation reaction, catalyzing the fusion of two farnesyl pyrophosphate molecules, leading to the formation of squalene, which has been depicted as a highly effective oxygen-scavenging agent in in vitro studies. Recent studies have depicted this isoprenoid as a protective layer against ferroptosis due to its potential regulation of lipid peroxidation, as well as its protection against oxidative damage. Therefore, beyond its fundamental function, recent investigations have unveiled additional roles for SQS as a regulator of lipid peroxidation and programmed cell death pathways, such as ferroptosis-a type of cell death characterized by elevated levels of lipid peroxide, one of the forms of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and intracellular iron concentration. Notably, thorough explorations have shed light on the distinctive features that set SQS apart from other members within the isoprenoid synthase superfamily. Its unique biochemical structure, intricately intertwined with its reaction mechanism, has garnered significant attention. Moreover, considerable evidence substantiates the significance of SQS in various disease contexts, and its intriguing association with ferroptosis and lipid peroxidation. The objective of this report is to analyze the existing literature comprehensively, corroborating these findings, and provide an up-to-date perspective on the current understanding of SQS as a prospective therapeutic target, as well as its intricate relationship with ferroptosis. This review aims to consolidate the knowledge surrounding SQS, thereby contributing to the broader comprehension of its potential implications in disease management and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachid Skouta
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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de Macedo-Silva ST, Visbal G, Souza GF, Dos Santos MR, Cämmerer SB, de Souza W, Rodrigues JCF. Benzylamines as highly potent inhibitors of the sterol biosynthesis pathway in Leishmania amazonensis leading to oxidative stress and ultrastructural alterations. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11313. [PMID: 35788652 PMCID: PMC9253131 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15449-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a neglected disease caused by protozoan parasites of the Leishmania genus. Benzylamines are a class of compounds selectively designed to inhibit the squalene synthase (SQS) that catalyzes the first committed reaction on the sterol biosynthesis pathway. Herein, we studied seven new benzylamines (SBC 37–43) against Leishmania amazonensis. After the first screening of cell viability, two inhibitors (SBC 39 and SBC 40) were selected. Against intracellular amastigotes, SBC 39 and SBC 40 presented selectivity indexes of 117.7 and 180, respectively, indicating high selectivity. Analysis of the sterol composition revealed a depletion of endogenous 24-alkylated sterols such as episterol and 5-dehydroepisterol, with a concomitant accumulation of fecosterol, implying a disturbance in cellular lipid content. This result suggests a blockade of de novo sterol synthesis at the level of SQS and C-5 desaturase. Furthermore, physiological analysis and electron microscopy revealed three main alterations: (1) in the mitochondrion; (2) the presence of lipid bodies and autophagosomes; and (3) the appearance of projections in the plasma membrane. In conclusion, our results support the notion that benzylamines have a potent effect against Leishmania amazonensis and should be an exciting novel pharmaceutical lead for developing new chemotherapeutic alternatives to treat leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Teixeira de Macedo-Silva
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Centro Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, CENABIO, UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gonzalo Visbal
- Instituto Nacional de Metrologia, Qualidade e Tecnologia, Inmetro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Simon B Cämmerer
- Instituto de Química, Departamento de Química Orgânica, UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Wanderley de Souza
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Juliany Cola Fernandes Rodrigues
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. .,Núcleo Multidisciplinar de Pesquisa em Biologia, Divisão Biologia (NUMPEX-BIO), Campus UFRJ-Duque de Caxias Prof. Geraldo Cidade, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rodovia Washington Luiz, n. 19.593, km 104.5-Santa Cruz da Serra, Duque de Caxias, RJ, 25.240-005, Brazil.
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Sakyi PO, Amewu RK, Devine RNOA, Bienibuor AK, Miller WA, Kwofie SK. Unravelling the myth surrounding sterol biosynthesis as plausible target for drug design against leishmaniasis. J Parasit Dis 2021; 45:1152-1171. [PMID: 34790000 PMCID: PMC8556451 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01390-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The mortality rate of leishmaniasis is increasing at an alarming rate and is currently second to malaria amongst the other neglected tropical diseases. Unfortunately, many governments and key stakeholders are not investing enough in the development of new therapeutic interventions. The available treatment options targeting different pathways of the parasite have seen inefficiencies, drug resistance, and toxic side effects coupled with longer treatment durations. Numerous studies to understand the biochemistry of leishmaniasis and its pathogenesis have identified druggable targets including ornithine decarboxylase, trypanothione reductase, and pteridine reductase, which are relevant for the survival and growth of the parasites. Another plausible target is the sterol biosynthetic pathway; however, this has not been fully investigated. Sterol biosynthesis is essential for the survival of the Leishmania species because its inhibition could lead to the death of the parasites. This review seeks to evaluate how critical the enzymes involved in sterol biosynthetic pathway are to the survival of the leishmania parasite. The review also highlights both synthetic and natural product compounds with their IC50 values against selected enzymes. Finally, recent advancements in drug design strategies targeting the sterol biosynthesis pathway of Leishmania are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick O. Sakyi
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, PMB LG 56, Legon, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Chemical Sciences, School of Sciences, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Box 214, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Richard K. Amewu
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, PMB LG 56, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Robert N. O. A. Devine
- Department of Chemical Sciences, School of Sciences, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Box 214, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Alfred K. Bienibuor
- Department of Chemical Sciences, School of Sciences, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Box 214, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Whelton A. Miller
- Department of Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL 60153 USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL 60153 USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, IL 19104 USA
| | - Samuel K. Kwofie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, College of Basic & Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, PMB LG 77, Legon, Accra, Ghana
- West African Center for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Kourounakis AP, Bavavea E. New applications of squalene synthase inhibitors: Membrane cholesterol as a therapeutic target. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2020; 353:e2000085. [PMID: 32557793 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202000085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Squalene synthase (SQS) inhibitors, mostly known as antihyperlipidemic agents for controlling blood cholesterol levels, have been increasingly used to study alterations of the cholesterol content in cell membranes. As such, SQS inhibitors have been demonstrated to control cellular activities related to cancer cell proliferation and migration, neuron degeneration, and parasite growth. While the mechanisms behind the effects of cellular cholesterol are still being revealed in detail, the evidence for SQS as a therapeutic target for several seemingly unrelated diseases is increasing. SQS inhibitors may be the next promising candidates targeting the three remaining primary therapeutic areas, beyond cardiovascular disease, which still need to be addressed; their application as anticancer, antimicrobial, and antineurodegenerative agents appears promising for new drug discovery projects underway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angeliki P Kourounakis
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eugenia Bavavea
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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6
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Synthesis, Characterization, and Antileishmanial Activity of Certain Quinoline-4-carboxylic Acids. J CHEM-NY 2019. [DOI: 10.1155/2019/2859637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a fatal neglected parasitic disease caused by protozoa of the genusLeishmaniaand transmitted to humans by different species ofphlebotominesandflies. The disease incidence continues to increase due to lack of vaccines and prophylactic drugs. Drugs commonly used for the treatment are frequently toxic and highly expensive. The problem of these drugs is further complicated by the development of resistance. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop new antileishmanial drug candidates. The aim of this study was to synthesize certain quinoline-4-carboxylic acids, confirm their chemical structures, and evaluate their antileishmanial activity. Pfitzinger reaction was employed to synthesize fifteen quinoline-4-carboxylic acids (Q1-Q15) by reacting equimolar mixtures of isatin derivatives and appropriateα-methyl ketone. The products were purified, and their respective chemical structures were deduced using various spectral tools (IR, MS,1H NMR, and13C NMR). Then, they were investigated againstL. donovanipromastigote (clinical isolate) in different concentration levels (200 μg/mL to 1.56 μg/mL) against sodium stibogluconate and amphotericin B as positive controls. The IC50for each compound was determined and manipulated statistically. Among these compounds,Q1(2-methylquinoline-4-carboxylic acid) was found to be the most active in terms of IC50.
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Bazina L, Maravić A, Krce L, Soldo B, Odžak R, Popović VB, Aviani I, Primožič I, Šprung M. Discovery of novel quaternary ammonium compounds based on quinuclidine-3-ol as new potential antimicrobial candidates. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 163:626-635. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Computational Exploration for Lead Compounds That Can Reverse the Nuclear Morphology in Progeria. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:5270940. [PMID: 29226142 PMCID: PMC5684607 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5270940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Progeria is a rare genetic disorder characterized by premature aging that eventually leads to death and is noticed globally. Despite alarming conditions, this disease lacks effective medications; however, the farnesyltransferase inhibitors (FTIs) are a hope in the dark. Therefore, the objective of the present article is to identify new compounds from the databases employing pharmacophore based virtual screening. Utilizing nine training set compounds along with lonafarnib, a common feature pharmacophore was constructed consisting of four features. The validated Hypo1 was subsequently allowed to screen Maybridge, Chembridge, and Asinex databases to retrieve the novel lead candidates, which were then subjected to Lipinski's rule of 5 and ADMET for drug-like assessment. The obtained 3,372 compounds were forwarded to docking simulations and were manually examined for the key interactions with the crucial residues. Two compounds that have demonstrated a higher dock score than the reference compounds and showed interactions with the crucial residues were subjected to MD simulations and binding free energy calculations to assess the stability of docked conformation and to investigate the binding interactions in detail. Furthermore, this study suggests that the Hits may be more effective against progeria and further the DFT studies were executed to understand their orbital energies.
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Sandmeier T, Krautwald S, Carreira EM. Stereoselective Synthesis of Piperidines by Iridium-Catalyzed Cyclocondensation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017; 56:11515-11519. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201706374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Sandmeier
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, HCI H335; Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich; Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3 8093 Zürich Switzerland
| | - Simon Krautwald
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, HCI H335; Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich; Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3 8093 Zürich Switzerland
| | - Erick M. Carreira
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, HCI H335; Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich; Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3 8093 Zürich Switzerland
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10
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Sandmeier T, Krautwald S, Carreira EM. Stereoselective Synthesis of Piperidines by Iridium-Catalyzed Cyclocondensation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201706374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Sandmeier
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, HCI H335; Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich; Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3 8093 Zürich Switzerland
| | - Simon Krautwald
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, HCI H335; Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich; Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3 8093 Zürich Switzerland
| | - Erick M. Carreira
- Laboratorium für Organische Chemie, HCI H335; Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich; Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 3 8093 Zürich Switzerland
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Dauchy FA, Bonhivers M, Landrein N, Dacheux D, Courtois P, Lauruol F, Daulouède S, Vincendeau P, Robinson DR. Trypanosoma brucei CYP51: Essentiality and Targeting Therapy in an Experimental Model. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0005125. [PMID: 27855164 PMCID: PMC5113867 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Trypanosoma brucei gambiense is the main causative agent of Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), also known as sleeping sickness. Because of limited alternatives and treatment toxicities, new therapeutic options are urgently needed for patients with HAT. Sterol 14alpha-demethylase (CYP51) is a potential drug target but its essentiality has not been determined in T. brucei. We used a tetracycline-inducible RNAi system to assess the essentiality of CYP51 in T. brucei bloodstream form (BSF) cells and we evaluated the effect of posaconazole, a well-tolerated triazole drug, within a panel of virulent strains in vitro and in a murine model. Expression of CYP51 in several T. brucei cell lines was demonstrated by western blot and its essentiality was demonstrated by RNA interference (CYP51RNAi) in vitro. Following reduction of TbCYP51 expression by RNAi, cell growth was reduced and eventually stopped compared to WT or non-induced cells, showing the requirement of CYP51 in T. brucei. These phenotypes were rescued by addition of ergosterol. Additionally, CYP51RNAi induction caused morphological defects with multiflagellated cells (p<0.05), suggesting cytokinesis dysfunction. The survival of CYP51RNAi Doxycycline-treated mice (p = 0.053) and of CYP51RNAi 5-day pre-induced Doxycycline-treated mice (p = 0.008) were improved compared to WT showing a CYP51 RNAi effect on trypanosomal virulence in mice. The posaconazole concentrations that inhibited parasite growth by 50% (IC50) were 8.5, 2.7, 1.6 and 0.12 μM for T. b. brucei 427 90-13, T. b. brucei Antat 1.1, T. b. gambiense Feo (Feo/ITMAP/1893) and T. b. gambiense Biyamina (MHOM/SD/82), respectively. During infection with these last three virulent strains, posaconazole-eflornithine and nifurtimox-eflornithine combinations showed similar improvement in mice survival (p≤0.001). Our results provide support for a CYP51 targeting based treatment in HAT. Thus posaconazole used in combination may represent a therapeutic alternative for trypanosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric-Antoine Dauchy
- University of Bordeaux, laboratoire de parasitologie, France
- IRD-CIRAD-University of Bordeaux, France
- University Hospital of Bordeaux, Department of infectious and tropical diseases, Hôpital Pellegrin, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Mélanie Bonhivers
- University of Bordeaux, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, France
- CNRS, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, France
| | - Nicolas Landrein
- University of Bordeaux, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, France
- CNRS, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, France
| | - Denis Dacheux
- University of Bordeaux, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, France
- CNRS, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, France
- Bordeaux INP, ENSTBB, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, France
| | - Pierrette Courtois
- University of Bordeaux, laboratoire de parasitologie, France
- IRD-CIRAD-University of Bordeaux, France
| | - Florian Lauruol
- University of Bordeaux, laboratoire de parasitologie, France
- IRD-CIRAD-University of Bordeaux, France
| | - Sylvie Daulouède
- University of Bordeaux, laboratoire de parasitologie, France
- IRD-CIRAD-University of Bordeaux, France
| | - Philippe Vincendeau
- University of Bordeaux, laboratoire de parasitologie, France
- IRD-CIRAD-University of Bordeaux, France
- University Hospital of Bordeaux, laboratoire de parasitologie, Hôpital Pellegrin, France
| | - Derrick R. Robinson
- University of Bordeaux, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, France
- CNRS, Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité, France
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No JH. Visceral leishmaniasis: Revisiting current treatments and approaches for future discoveries. Acta Trop 2016; 155:113-23. [PMID: 26748356 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2015.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Revised: 12/24/2015] [Accepted: 12/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The current treatments for visceral leishmaniasis are old and toxic with limited routes of administration. The emergence of drug-resistant Leishmania threatens the efficacy of the existing reservoir of antileishmanials, leading to an urgent need to develop new treatments. It is particularly important to review and understand how the current treatments act against Leishmania in order to identify valid drug targets or essential pathways for next-generation antileishmanials. It is equally important to adapt newly emerging biotechnologies to facilitate the current research on the development of novel antileishmanials in an efficient fashion. This review covers the basic background of the current visceral leishmaniasis treatments with an emphasis on the modes of action. It briefly discusses the role of the immune system in aiding the chemotherapy of leishmaniasis, describes potential new antileishmanial drug targets and pathways, and introduces recent progress on the utilization of high-throughput phenotypic screening assays to identify novel antileishmanial compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joo Hwan No
- Institut Pasteur Korea, Leishmania Research Laboratory, 696 Sampyeong-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.
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The effect of 3-(biphenyl-4-yl)-3-hydoxyquinuclidine (BPQ-OH) and metronidazole on Trichomonas vaginalis: a comparative study. Parasitol Res 2014; 113:2185-97. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-3871-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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An efficient synthesis of 2,3-diaryl-2-azabicyclo[2.2.2]octan-5-ones and their acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. CHINESE CHEM LETT 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cclet.2013.01.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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15
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Endogenous sterol biosynthesis is important for mitochondrial function and cell morphology in procyclic forms of Trypanosoma brucei. Int J Parasitol 2012; 42:975-89. [PMID: 22964455 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2012.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2012] [Revised: 07/19/2012] [Accepted: 07/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sterol biosynthesis inhibitors are promising entities for the treatment of trypanosomal diseases. Insect forms of Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of sleeping sickness, synthesize ergosterol and other 24-alkylated sterols, yet also incorporate cholesterol from the medium. While sterol function has been investigated by pharmacological manipulation of sterol biosynthesis, molecular mechanisms by which endogenous sterols influence cellular processes remain largely unknown in trypanosomes. Here we analyse by RNA interference, the effects of a perturbation of three specific steps of endogenous sterol biosynthesis in order to dissect the role of specific intermediates in proliferation, mitochondrial function and cellular morphology in procyclic cells. A decrease in the levels of squalene synthase and squalene epoxidase resulted in a depletion of cellular sterol intermediates and end products, impaired cell growth and led to aberrant morphologies, DNA fragmentation and a profound modification of mitochondrial structure and function. In contrast, cells deficient in sterol methyl transferase, the enzyme involved in 24-alkylation, exhibited a normal growth phenotype in spite of a complete abolition of the synthesis and content of 24-alkyl sterols. Thus, the data provided indicates that while the depletion of squalene and post-squalene endogenous sterol metabolites results in profound cellular defects, bulk 24-alkyl sterols are not strictly required to support growth in insect forms of T. brucei in vitro.
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Lin FY, Liu YL, Li K, Cao R, Zhu W, Axelson J, Pang R, Oldfield E. Head-to-head prenyl tranferases: anti-infective drug targets. J Med Chem 2012; 55:4367-72. [PMID: 22486710 DOI: 10.1021/jm300208p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We report X-ray crystallographic structures of three inhibitors bound to dehydrosqualene synthase from Staphylococcus aureus: 1 (BPH-651), 2 (WC-9), and 3 (SQ-109). Compound 2 binds to the S2 site with its -SCN group surrounded by four hydrogen bond donors. With 1, we report two structures: in both, the quinuclidine headgroup binds in the allylic (S1) site with the side chain in S2, but in the presence of PPi and Mg(2+), the quinuclidine's cationic center interacts with PPi and three Mg(2+), mimicking a transition state involved in diphosphate ionization. With 3, there are again two structures. In one, the geranyl side chain binds to either S1 or S2 and the adamantane headgroup binds to S1. In the second, the side chain binds to S2 while the headgroup binds to S1. These results provide structural clues for the mechanism and inhibition of the head-to-head prenyl transferases and should aid future drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Yang Lin
- Center for Biophysics and Computational Biology,University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
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Lipophilic analogs of zoledronate and risedronate inhibit Plasmodium geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (GGPPS) and exhibit potent antimalarial activity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012; 109:4058-63. [PMID: 22392982 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1118215109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the results of an in vitro screening assay targeting the intraerythrocytic form of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum using a library of 560 prenyl-synthase inhibitors. Based on "growth-rescue" and enzyme-inhibition experiments, geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (GGPPS) is shown to be a major target for the most potent leads, BPH-703 and BPH-811, lipophilic analogs of the bone-resorption drugs zoledronate and risedronate. We determined the crystal structures of these inhibitors bound to a Plasmodium GGPPS finding that their head groups bind to the [Mg(2+)](3) cluster in the active site in a similar manner to that found with their more hydrophilic parents, whereas their hydrophobic tails occupy a long-hydrophobic tunnel spanning both molecules in the dimer. The results of isothermal-titration-calorimetric experiments show that both lipophilic bisphosphonates bind to GGPPS with, on average, a ΔG of -9 kcal mol(-1), only 0.5 kcal mol(-1) worse than the parent bisphosphonates, consistent with the observation that conversion to the lipophilic species has only a minor effect on enzyme activity. However, only the lipophilic species are active in cells. We also tested both compounds in mice, finding major decreases in parasitemia and 100% survival. These results are of broad general interest because they indicate that it may be possible to overcome barriers to cell penetration of existing bisphosphonate drugs in this and other systems by simple covalent modification to form lipophilic analogs that retain their enzyme-inhibition activity and are also effective in vitro and in vivo.
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Abstract
SUMMARYLeishmaniaare obligatory intracellular parasitic protozoa that cycle between sand fly mid-gut and phagolysosomes of mammalian macrophages. They have developed genetically programmed changes in gene and protein expression that enable rapid optimization of cell function according to vector and host environments. During the last two decades, host-free systems that mimic intra-lysosomal environments have been devised in which promastigotes differentiate into amastigotes axenically. These cultures have facilitated detailed investigation of the molecular mechanisms underlyingLeishmaniadevelopment inside its host. Axenic promastigotes and amastigotes have been subjected to transcriptome and proteomic analyses. Development had appeared somewhat variable but was revealed by proteomics to be strictly coordinated and regulated. Here we summarize the current understanding ofLeishmaniapromastigote to amastigote differentiation, highlighting the data generated by proteomics.
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Lepesheva GI, Villalta F, Waterman MR. Targeting Trypanosoma cruzi sterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51). ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2011; 75:65-87. [PMID: 21820552 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-385863-4.00004-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There are at least two obvious features that must be considered upon targeting specific metabolic pathways/enzymes for drug development: the pathway must be essential and the enzyme must allow the design of pharmacologically useful inhibitors. Here, we describe Trypanosoma cruzi sterol 14α-demethylase as a promising target for anti-Chagasic chemotherapy. The use of anti-fungal azoles, which block sterol biosynthesis and therefore membrane formation in fungi, against the protozoan parasite has turned out to be highly successful: a broad spectrum anti-fungal drug, the triazole compound posaconazole, is now entering phase II clinical trials for treatment of Chagas disease. This review summarizes comparative information on anti-fungal azoles and novel inhibitory scaffolds selective for Trypanosomatidae sterol 14α-demethylase through the lens of recent structure/functional characterization of the target enzyme. We believe our studies open wide opportunities for rational design of novel, pathogen-specific and therefore more potent and efficient anti-trypanosomal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina I Lepesheva
- Department of Biochemistry School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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20
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Portes JDA, Netto CD, da Silva AJM, Costa PRR, DaMatta RA, dos Santos TAT, De Souza W, Seabra SH. A new type of pterocarpanquinone that affects Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites in vitro. Vet Parasitol 2011; 186:261-9. [PMID: 22177332 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2011] [Revised: 09/05/2011] [Accepted: 11/01/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, the agent of Toxoplasmosis, is an obligate intracellular protozoan able to infect a wide range of vertebrate cells, including nonprofessional and professional phagocytes. Therefore, drugs must have intracellular activities in order to control this parasite. The most common therapy for Toxoplasmosis is the combination of sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine. This treatment is associated with adverse reactions, thus, the development of new drugs is necessary. In previous studies, naphthoquinone derivatives showed anti-cancer activity functioning as agents capable of acting on groups of DNA, preventing cancer cells duplication. These derivatives also display anti-parasitic activity against Plasmodium falciparum and Leishmania amazonensis. The derivative pterocarpanquinone tested in this work resulted from the molecular hybridization between pterocarpans and naphtoquinone that presents anti-tumoral and anti-parasitic activities of lapachol. The aim of this work was to determine if this derivative is able to change T. gondii growth within LLC-MK2 cells. The drug did not arrest host cell growth, but was able to decrease the infection index of T. gondii with an IC(50) of 2.5 μM. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy analysis showed morphological changes of parasites including membrane damage. The parasite that survived tended to encyst as seen by Dolichos biflorus lectin staining and Bag-1 expression. These results suggest that pterocarpanquinones are drugs potentially important for the killing and encystment of T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana de Araujo Portes
- Laboratório de Tecnologia em Cultura de Células, Centro Universitário Estadual da Zona Oeste (UEZO) - Av. Manuel Caldeira de Alvarenga, 1203, Campo Grande, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, CEP: 23070-200, Brazil.
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21
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Durrant JD, Cao R, Gorfe AA, Zhu W, Li J, Sankovsky A, Oldfield E, McCammon JA. Non-bisphosphonate inhibitors of isoprenoid biosynthesis identified via computer-aided drug design. Chem Biol Drug Des 2011; 78:323-32. [PMID: 21696546 PMCID: PMC3155669 DOI: 10.1111/j.1747-0285.2011.01164.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The relaxed complex scheme, a virtual-screening methodology that accounts for protein receptor flexibility, was used to identify a low-micromolar, non-bisphosphonate inhibitor of farnesyl diphosphate synthase. Serendipitously, we also found that several predicted farnesyl diphosphate synthase inhibitors were low-micromolar inhibitors of undecaprenyl diphosphate synthase. These results are of interest because farnesyl diphosphate synthase inhibitors are being pursued as both anti-infective and anticancer agents, and undecaprenyl diphosphate synthase inhibitors are antibacterial drug leads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob D Durrant
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Mail Code 0365, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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Seifert K. Structures, targets and recent approaches in anti-leishmanial drug discovery and development. THE OPEN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY JOURNAL 2011; 5:31-9. [PMID: 21629509 PMCID: PMC3103891 DOI: 10.2174/1874104501105010031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2010] [Revised: 05/12/2010] [Accepted: 06/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have seen a significant improvement in available treatment options for leishmaniasis. Two new drugs, miltefosine and paromomycin, have been registered for the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in India since 2002. Combination therapy is now explored in clinical trials as a new treatment approach for VL to reduce the length of treatment and potentially prevent selection of resistant parasites. However there is still a need for new drugs due to safety, resistance, stability and cost issues with existing therapies. The search for topical treatments for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is ongoing. This review gives a brief overview of recent developments and approaches in anti-leishmanial drug discovery and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Seifert
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
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Ishida K, Fernandes Rodrigues JC, Cammerer S, Urbina JA, Gilbert I, de Souza W, Rozental S. Synthetic arylquinuclidine derivatives exhibit antifungal activity against Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis and Candida parapsilopsis. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2011; 10:3. [PMID: 21255433 PMCID: PMC3036746 DOI: 10.1186/1476-0711-10-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2010] [Accepted: 01/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sterol biosynthesis is an essential pathway for fungal survival, and is the biochemical target of many antifungal agents. The antifungal drugs most widely used to treated fungal infections are compounds that inhibit cytochrome P450-dependent C14α-demethylase (CYP51), but other enzymes of this pathway, such as squalene synthase (SQS) which catalyses the first committed step in sterol biosynthesis, could be viable targets. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of SQS inhibitors on Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis and Candida parapsilopsis strains. METHODS Ten arylquinuclidines that act as SQS inhibitors were tested as antiproliferative agents against three ATCC strains and 54 clinical isolates of Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis and Candida parapsilopsis. Also, the morphological alterations induced in the yeasts by the experimental compounds were evaluated by fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS The most potent arylquinuclidine derivative (3-[1'-{4'-(benzyloxy)-phenyl}]-quinuclidine-2-ene) (WSP1267) had a MIC50 of 2 μg/ml for all species tested and MIC90 varying from 4 μg/ml to 8 μg/ml. Ultrathin sections of C. albicans treated with 1 μg/ml of WSP1267 showed several ultrastructural alterations, including (a) loss of cell wall integrity, (b) detachment of the plasma membrane from the fungal cell wall, (c) accumulation of small vesicles in the periplasmic region, (d) presence of large electron-dense vacuoles and (e) significantly increased cell size and cell wall thickness. In addition, fluorescence microscopy of cells labelled with Nile Red showed an accumulation of lipid droplets in the cytoplasm of treated yeasts. Nuclear staining with DAPI revealed the appearance of uncommon yeast buds without a nucleus or with two nuclei. CONCLUSION Taken together, our data demonstrate that arylquinuclidine derivatives could be useful as lead compounds for the rational synthesis of new antifungal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Ishida
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular de Fungos, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Carlos Chagas Filho 373, Bloco C, Sala C0-026, Cidade Universitária, 21,941-902, Rio de Janeiro/RJ, Brazil
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Two squalene synthase inhibitors, E5700 and ER-119884, interfere with cellular proliferation and induce ultrastructural and lipid profile alterations in a Candida tropicalis strain resistant to fluconazole, itraconazole, and amphotericin B. J Infect Chemother 2011; 17:563-70. [DOI: 10.1007/s10156-010-0190-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2009] [Accepted: 11/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Bhargava P, Kumar K, Chaudhaery SS, Saxena AK, Roy U. Cloning, overexpression and characterization of Leishmania donovani squalene synthase. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2010; 311:82-92. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6968.2010.02071.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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26
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Collaborative actions in anti-trypanosomatid chemotherapy with partners from disease endemic areas. Trends Parasitol 2010; 26:395-403. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2010.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2009] [Revised: 04/28/2010] [Accepted: 04/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Cerecetto H, González M. Synthetic Medicinal Chemistry in Chagas' Disease: Compounds at The Final Stage of "Hit-To-Lead" Phase. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2010; 3:810-838. [PMID: 27713281 PMCID: PMC4034012 DOI: 10.3390/ph3040810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2010] [Revised: 03/15/2010] [Accepted: 03/19/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chagas' disease, or American trypanosomosiasis, has been the most relevant illness produced by protozoa in Latin America. Synthetic medicinal chemistry efforts have provided an extensive number of chemodiverse hits at the "active-to-hit" stage. However, only a more limited number of these have been studied in vivo in models of Chagas' disease. Herein, we survey some of the cantidates able to surpass the "hit-to-lead" stage discussing their limitations or merit to enter in clinical trials in the short term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Cerecetto
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de la República, Iguá 4225, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay.
| | - Mercedes González
- Laboratorio de Química Orgánica, Instituto de Química Biológica-Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Iguá 4225, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay.
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Sterol Biosynthesis Pathway as Target for Anti-trypanosomatid Drugs. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis 2009; 2009:642502. [PMID: 19680554 PMCID: PMC2721973 DOI: 10.1155/2009/642502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2009] [Accepted: 04/27/2009] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Sterols are constituents of the cellular membranes that are essential for their normal structure and function. In mammalian cells, cholesterol is the main sterol found in the various membranes. However, other sterols predominate in eukaryotic microorganisms such as fungi and protozoa. It is now well established that an important metabolic pathway in fungi and in members of the Trypanosomatidae family is one that produces a special class of sterols, including ergosterol, and other 24-methyl sterols, which are required for parasitic growth and viability, but are absent from mammalian host cells. Currently, there are several drugs that interfere with sterol biosynthesis (SB) that are in use to treat diseases such as high cholesterol in humans and fungal infections. In this review, we analyze the effects of drugs such as (a) statins, which act on the mevalonate pathway by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, (b) bisphosphonates, which interfere with the isoprenoid pathway in the step catalyzed by farnesyl diphosphate synthase, (c) zaragozic acids and quinuclidines, inhibitors of squalene synthase (SQS), which catalyzes the first committed step in sterol biosynthesis, (d) allylamines, inhibitors of squalene epoxidase, (e) azoles, which inhibit C14α-demethylase, and (f) azasterols, which inhibit Δ24(25)-sterol methyltransferase (SMT). Inhibition of this last step appears to have high selectivity for fungi and trypanosomatids, since this enzyme is not found in mammalian cells. We review here the IC50 values of these various inhibitors, their effects on the growth of trypanosomatids (both in axenic cultures and in cell cultures), and their effects on protozoan structural organization (as evaluted by light and electron microscopy) and lipid composition. The results show that the mitochondrial membrane as well as the membrane lining the protozoan cell body and flagellum are the main targets. Probably as a consequence of these primary effects, other important changes take place in the organization of the kinetoplast DNA network and on the protozoan cell cycle. In addition, apoptosis-like and autophagic processes induced by several of the inhibitors tested led to parasite death.
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Konkle ME, Hargrove TY, Kleshchenko YY, von Kries JP, Ridenour W, Uddin MJ, Caprioli RM, Marnett LJ, Nes WD, Villalta F, Waterman MR, Lepesheva GI. Indomethacin amides as a novel molecular scaffold for targeting Trypanosoma cruzi sterol 14alpha-demethylase. J Med Chem 2009; 52:2846-53. [PMID: 19354253 PMCID: PMC2744100 DOI: 10.1021/jm801643b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi (TC) causes Chagas disease, which in its chronic stage remains incurable. We have shown recently that specific inhibition of TC sterol 14alpha-demethylase (TCCYP51) with imidazole derivatives is effective in killing both extracellular and intracellular human stages of TC. An alternative set of TCCYP51 inhibitors has been identified using optical high throughput screening followed by web-database search for similar structures. The best TCCYP51 inhibitor from this search was found to have structural similarity to a class of cyclooxygenase-2-selective inhibitors, the indomethacin-amides. A number of indomethacin-amides were found to bind to TCCYP51, inhibit its activity in vitro, and produce strong antiparasitic effects in the cultured TC cells. Analysis of TC sterol composition indicated that the mode of action of the compounds is by inhibition of sterol biosynthesis in the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary E. Konkle
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Tatiana Y. Hargrove
- Department of Biochemistry School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Yuliya Y. Kleshchenko
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immune Response, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
| | - Jens P. von Kries
- Screening Unit, Leibniz Institute for Molecular Pharmacology (FMP), Berlin, 13125, Germany
| | - Whitney Ridenour
- Department of Biochemistry School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- Mass Spectrometry Research Center, Vanderbilt University
| | - Md. Jashim Uddin
- Department of Biochemistry School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Richard M. Caprioli
- Department of Biochemistry School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- Mass Spectrometry Research Center, Vanderbilt University
| | - Lawrence J. Marnett
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- Department of Biochemistry School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - W. David Nes
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409-1061, USA
| | - Fernando Villalta
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immune Response, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
| | - Michael R. Waterman
- Department of Biochemistry School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Galina I. Lepesheva
- Department of Biochemistry School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
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Trypanothione reductase high-throughput screening campaign identifies novel classes of inhibitors with antiparasitic activity. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2009; 53:2824-33. [PMID: 19364854 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01568-08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
High-throughput screening of 100,000 lead-like compounds led to the identification of nine novel chemical classes of trypanothione reductase (TR) inhibitors worthy of further investigation. Hits from five of these chemical classes have been developed further through different combinations of preliminary structure-activity relationship rate probing and assessment of antiparasitic activity, cytotoxicity, and chemical and in vitro metabolic properties. This has led to the identification of novel TR inhibitor chemotypes that are drug-like and display antiparasitic activity. For one class, a series of analogues have displayed a correlation between TR inhibition and antiparasitic activity. This paper explores the process of identifying, investigating, and evaluating a series of hits from a high-throughput screening campaign.
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Intracellular location of the early steps of the isoprenoid biosynthetic pathway in the trypanosomatids Leishmania major and Trypanosoma brucei. Int J Parasitol 2009; 39:307-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2008.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2008] [Revised: 07/31/2008] [Accepted: 08/08/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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32
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Yang M, Ge JF, Arai C, Itoh I, Fu Q, Ihara M. Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics studies of phenoxazinium derivatives for antimalarial agent. Bioorg Med Chem 2009; 17:1481-5. [PMID: 19181530 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2009.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2008] [Revised: 01/09/2009] [Accepted: 01/09/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
In vivo antimalarial drug candidates screening test was carried out on a series of water-soluble 3,7-bis(dialkylamino)phenoxazin-5-ium derivatives. Among them, 3-(diethylamino)-7-(piperidin-1-yl)phenoxazin-5-ium chloride (SSJ-206) showing highest efficacy was chosen for further pharmcodynamics and pharmacokinetics study. It was supported from these data that the phenoxazinium salts, SSJ-206, would be one of hopeful candidates as an oral antimalarial drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Yang
- Research Centre of Medicinal Sciences, Hoshi University, Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan
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Le Pape P. Development of new antileishmanial drugs – current knowledge and future prospects. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2008; 23:708-18. [DOI: 10.1080/14756360802208137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Patrice Le Pape
- Département de Parasitologie et de Mycologie Médicale, Université de Nantes, Nantes Atlantique Universités, IICiMed UPRES EA 1155, UFR de Sciences Pharmaceutiques, 1 rue Gaston VeilNantes cedex 01F-44035, France
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In vitro activities of ER-119884 and E5700, two potent squalene synthase inhibitors, against Leishmania amazonensis: antiproliferative, biochemical, and ultrastructural effects. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2008; 52:4098-114. [PMID: 18765694 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01616-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
ER-119884 and E5700, novel arylquinuclidine derivatives developed as cholesterol-lowering agents, were potent in vitro growth inhibitors of both proliferative stages of Leishmania amazonensis, the main causative agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis in South America, with the 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC(50)s) being in the low-nanomolar to subnanomolar range. The compounds were very potent noncompetitive inhibitors of native L. amazonensis squalene synthase (SQS), with inhibition constants also being in the nanomolar to subnanomolar range. Growth inhibition was strictly associated with the depletion of the parasite's main endogenous sterols and the concomitant accumulation of exogenous cholesterol. Using electron microscopy, we identified the intracellular structures affected by the compounds. A large number of lipid inclusions displaying different shapes and electron densities were observed after treatment with both SQS inhibitors, and these inclusions were associated with an intense disorganization of the membrane that surrounds the cell body and flagellum, as well as the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi complex. Cells treated with ER-119884 but not those treated with E5700 had an altered cytoskeleton organization due to an abnormal distribution of tubulin, and many were arrested at cytokinesis. A prominent contractile vacuole and a phenotype typical of programmed cell death were frequently found in drug-treated cells. The selectivity of the drugs was demonstrated with the JC-1 mitochondrial fluorescent label and by trypan blue exclusion tests with macrophages, which showed that the IC(50)s against the host cells were 4 to 5 orders of magnitude greater that those against the intracellular parasites. Taken together, our results show that ER-119884 and E5700 are unusually potent and selective inhibitors of the growth of Leishmania amazonensis, probably because of their inhibitory effects on de novo sterol biosynthesis at the level of SQS, but some of our observations indicate that ER-119884 may also interfere with other cellular processes.
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