1
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Mamudu CO, Tebamifor ME, Sule MO, Dokunmu TM, Ogunlana OO, Iheagwam FN. Apicoplast-Resident Processes: Exploiting the Chink in the Armour of Plasmodium falciparum Parasites. Adv Pharmacol Pharm Sci 2024; 2024:9940468. [PMID: 38765186 PMCID: PMC11101256 DOI: 10.1155/2024/9940468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery of a relict plastid, also known as an apicoplast (apicomplexan plastid), that houses housekeeping processes and metabolic pathways critical to Plasmodium parasites' survival has prompted increased research on identifying potent inhibitors that can impinge on apicoplast-localised processes. The apicoplast is absent in humans, yet it is proposed to originate from the eukaryote's secondary endosymbiosis of a primary symbiont. This symbiotic relationship provides a favourable microenvironment for metabolic processes such as haem biosynthesis, Fe-S cluster synthesis, isoprenoid biosynthesis, fatty acid synthesis, and housekeeping processes such as DNA replication, transcription, and translation, distinct from analogous mammalian processes. Recent advancements in comprehending the biology of the apicoplast reveal it as a vulnerable organelle for malaria parasites, offering numerous potential targets for effective antimalarial therapies. We provide an overview of the metabolic processes occurring in the apicoplast and discuss the organelle as a viable antimalarial target in light of current advances in drug discovery. We further highlighted the relevance of these metabolic processes to Plasmodium falciparum during the different stages of the lifecycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Collins Ojonugwa Mamudu
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
- Covenant Applied Informatics and Communication Africa Centre of Excellence, Ota, Nigeria
| | - Mercy Eyitomi Tebamifor
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
- Covenant Applied Informatics and Communication Africa Centre of Excellence, Ota, Nigeria
| | - Mary Ohunene Sule
- Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, Kogi, Nigeria
| | - Titilope Modupe Dokunmu
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
- Covenant Applied Informatics and Communication Africa Centre of Excellence, Ota, Nigeria
| | - Olubanke Olujoke Ogunlana
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
- Covenant Applied Informatics and Communication Africa Centre of Excellence, Ota, Nigeria
- Covenant University Public Health and Wellbeing Research Cluster, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
| | - Franklyn Nonso Iheagwam
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
- Covenant University Public Health and Wellbeing Research Cluster, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
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2
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Cheuka PM, Njaria P, Mayoka G, Funjika E. Emerging Drug Targets for Antimalarial Drug Discovery: Validation and Insights into Molecular Mechanisms of Function. J Med Chem 2024; 67:838-863. [PMID: 38198596 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01828] [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: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Approximately 619,000 malaria deaths were reported in 2021, and resistance to recommended drugs, including artemisinin-combination therapies (ACTs), threatens malaria control. Treatment failure with ACTs has been found to be as high as 93% in northeastern Thailand, and parasite mutations responsible for artemisinin resistance have already been reported in some African countries. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify alternative treatments with novel targets. In this Perspective, we discuss some promising antimalarial drug targets, including enzymes involved in proteolysis, DNA and RNA metabolism, protein synthesis, and isoprenoid metabolism. Other targets discussed are transporters, Plasmodium falciparum acetyl-coenzyme A synthetase, N-myristoyltransferase, and the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-dependent protein kinase G. We have outlined mechanistic details, where these are understood, underpinning the biological roles and hence druggability of such targets. We believe that having a clear understanding of the underlying chemical interactions is valuable to medicinal chemists in their quest to design appropriate inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Mubanga Cheuka
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, University of Zambia, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Paul Njaria
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Kenyatta University, P.O. Box 14548-00400, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
| | - Godfrey Mayoka
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, P.O. Box 62000-00200, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
| | - Evelyn Funjika
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, University of Zambia, P.O. Box 32379, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
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3
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Thommen BT, Dziekan JM, Achcar F, Tjia S, Passecker A, Buczak K, Gumpp C, Schmidt A, Rottmann M, Grüring C, Marti M, Bozdech Z, Brancucci NMB. Genetic validation of PfFKBP35 as an antimalarial drug target. eLife 2023; 12:RP86975. [PMID: 37934560 PMCID: PMC10629825 DOI: 10.7554/elife.86975] [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: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium falciparum accounts for the majority of over 600,000 malaria-associated deaths annually. Parasites resistant to nearly all antimalarials have emerged and the need for drugs with alternative modes of action is thus undoubted. The FK506-binding protein PfFKBP35 has gained attention as a promising drug target due to its high affinity to the macrolide compound FK506 (tacrolimus). Whilst there is considerable interest in targeting PfFKBP35 with small molecules, a genetic validation of this factor as a drug target is missing and its function in parasite biology remains elusive. Here, we show that limiting PfFKBP35 levels are lethal to P. falciparum and result in a delayed death-like phenotype that is characterized by defective ribosome homeostasis and stalled protein synthesis. Our data furthermore suggest that FK506, unlike the action of this drug in model organisms, exerts its antiproliferative activity in a PfFKBP35-independent manner and, using cellular thermal shift assays, we identify putative FK506-targets beyond PfFKBP35. In addition to revealing first insights into the function of PfFKBP35, our results show that FKBP-binding drugs can adopt non-canonical modes of action - with major implications for the development of FK506-derived molecules active against Plasmodium parasites and other eukaryotic pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basil T Thommen
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health InstituteAllschwilSwitzerland
- University of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Jerzy M Dziekan
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological UniversitySingaporeSingapore
| | - Fiona Achcar
- Wellcome Center for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of GlasgowGlasgowUnited Kingdom
- Institute for Parasitology, University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Seth Tjia
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological UniversitySingaporeSingapore
| | - Armin Passecker
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health InstituteAllschwilSwitzerland
- University of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | | | - Christin Gumpp
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health InstituteAllschwilSwitzerland
- University of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | | | - Matthias Rottmann
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health InstituteAllschwilSwitzerland
- University of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Christof Grüring
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health InstituteAllschwilSwitzerland
- University of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Matthias Marti
- Wellcome Center for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of GlasgowGlasgowUnited Kingdom
- Institute for Parasitology, University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Zbynek Bozdech
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological UniversitySingaporeSingapore
| | - Nicolas MB Brancucci
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health InstituteAllschwilSwitzerland
- University of BaselBaselSwitzerland
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4
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Okada M, Sigala PA. The interdependence of isoprenoid synthesis and apicoplast biogenesis in malaria parasites. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011713. [PMID: 37883328 PMCID: PMC10602226 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011713] [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] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Isoprenoid precursor synthesis is an ancient and fundamental function of plastid organelles and a critical metabolic activity of the apicoplast in Plasmodium malaria parasites [1-3]. Over the past decade, our understanding of apicoplast properties and functions has increased enormously [4], due in large part to our ability to rescue blood-stage parasites from apicoplast-specific dysfunctions by supplementing cultures with isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP), a key output of this organelle [5,6]. In this Pearl, we explore the interdependence between isoprenoid metabolism and apicoplast biogenesis in P. falciparum and highlight critical future questions to answer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Okada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Paul A. Sigala
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
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5
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Elahi R, Prigge ST. New insights into apicoplast metabolism in blood-stage malaria parasites. Curr Opin Microbiol 2023; 71:102255. [PMID: 36563485 PMCID: PMC9852000 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2022.102255] [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: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The apicoplast of Plasmodium falciparum is the only source of essential isoprenoid precursors and Coenzyme A (CoA) in the parasite. Isoprenoid precursor synthesis relies on the iron-sulfur cluster (FeS) cofactors produced within the apicoplast, rendering FeS synthesis an essential function of this organelle. Recent reports provide important insights into the roles of FeS cofactors and the use of isoprenoid precursors and CoA both inside and outside the apicoplast. Here, we review the recent insights into the roles of these metabolites in blood-stage malaria parasites and discuss new questions that have been raised in light of these discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubayet Elahi
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; The Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sean T Prigge
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; The Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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6
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Sharma D, Pareek A, Arya H, Soni R, Rai P, Agrawal A, Nimesh S, Kumar D, Yaragorla S, Bhatt TK. Synthesis and inhibition studies towards the discovery of benzodiazepines as potential antimalarial compounds. Exp Parasitol 2022; 243:108411. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2022.108411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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7
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Characterization of Domiphen Bromide as a New Fast-Acting Antiplasmodial Agent Inhibiting the Apicoplastidic Methyl Erythritol Phosphate Pathway. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14071320. [PMID: 35890216 PMCID: PMC9319574 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14071320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolution of resistance by the malaria parasite to artemisinin, the key component of the combination therapy strategies that are at the core of current antimalarial treatments, calls for the urgent identification of new fast-acting antimalarials. The apicoplast organelle is a preferred target of antimalarial drugs because it contains biochemical processes absent from the human host. Fosmidomycin is the only drug in clinical trials targeting the apicoplast, where it inhibits the methyl erythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway. Here, we characterized the antiplasmodial activity of domiphen bromide (DB), another MEP pathway inhibitor with a rapid mode of action that arrests the in vitro growth of Plasmodium falciparum at the early trophozoite stage. Metabolomic analysis of the MEP pathway and Krebs cycle intermediates in 20 µM DB-treated parasites suggested a rapid activation of glycolysis with a concomitant decrease in mitochondrial activity, consistent with a rapid killing of the pathogen. These results present DB as a model compound for the development of new, potentially interesting drugs for future antimalarial combination therapies.
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8
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Bernard MM, Mohanty A, Rajendran V. Title: A Comprehensive Review on Classifying Fast-acting and Slow-acting Antimalarial Agents Based on Time of Action and Target Organelle of Plasmodium sp. Pathog Dis 2022; 80:6589403. [PMID: 35588061 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftac015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical resistance towards malarial parasites has rendered many antimalarials ineffective, likely due to a lack of understanding of time of action and stage specificity of all life stages. Therefore, to tackle this problem a more incisive comprehensive analysis of the fast and slow-acting profile of antimalarial agents relating to parasite time-kill kinetics and the target organelle on the progression of blood-stage parasites was carried out. It is evident from numerous findings that drugs targeting food vacuole, nuclear components, and endoplasmic reticulum mainly exhibit a fast-killing phenotype within 24h affecting first-cycle activity. Whereas drugs targeting mitochondria, apicoplast, microtubules, parasite invasion and egress exhibit a largely slow-killing phenotype within 96-120h, affecting second-cycle activity with few exemptions as moderately fast-killing. It is essential to understand the susceptibility of drugs on rings, trophozoites, schizonts, merozoites, and the appearance of organelle at each stage of 48h intraerythrocytic parasite cycle. Therefore, these parameters may facilitate the paradigm for understanding the timing of antimalarials action in deciphering its precise mechanism linked with time. Thus, classifying drugs based on the time of killing may promote designing new combination regimens against varied strains of P. falciparum and evaluating potential clinical resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Marie Bernard
- Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry 605014, India
| | - Abhinab Mohanty
- Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry 605014, India
| | - Vinoth Rajendran
- Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry 605014, India
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9
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Elaagip A, Absalon S, Florentin A. Apicoplast Dynamics During Plasmodium Cell Cycle. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:864819. [PMID: 35573785 PMCID: PMC9100674 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.864819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The deadly malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, contains a unique subcellular organelle termed the apicoplast, which is a clinically-proven antimalarial drug target. The apicoplast is a plastid with essential metabolic functions that evolved via secondary endosymbiosis. As an ancient endosymbiont, the apicoplast retained its own genome and it must be inherited by daughter cells during cell division. During the asexual replication of P. falciparum inside human red blood cells, both the parasite, and the apicoplast inside it, undergo massive morphological changes, including DNA replication and division. The apicoplast is an integral part of the cell and thus its development is tightly synchronized with the cell cycle. At the same time, certain aspects of its dynamics are independent of nuclear division, representing a degree of autonomy in organelle biogenesis. Here, we review the different aspects of organelle dynamics during P. falciparum intraerythrocytic replication, summarize our current understanding of these processes, and describe the many open questions in this area of parasite basic cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arwa Elaagip
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Sabrina Absalon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- *Correspondence: Sabrina Absalon, ; Anat Florentin,
| | - Anat Florentin
- The Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- *Correspondence: Sabrina Absalon, ; Anat Florentin,
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10
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Saggu GS. Apicoplast Journey and Its Essentiality as a Compartment for Malaria Parasite Survival. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:881825. [PMID: 35463632 PMCID: PMC9022174 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.881825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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11
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Almolhim H, Ding S, Butler JH, Bremers EK, Butschek GJ, Slebodnick C, Merino EF, Rizopoulos Z, Totrov M, Cassera MB, Carlier PR. Enantiopure Benzofuran-2-carboxamides of 1-Aryltetrahydro-β-carbolines Are Potent Antimalarials In Vitro. ACS Med Chem Lett 2022; 13:371-376. [PMID: 35300082 PMCID: PMC8919387 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.1c00697] [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: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The tetrahydro-β-carboline scaffold has proven fertile ground for the discovery of antimalarial agents (e.g., MMV008138 (1) and cipargamin (2)). Similarity searching of a publicly disclosed collection of antimalarial hits for molecules resembling 1 drew our attention to N2-acyl tetrahydro-β-carboline GNF-Pf-5009 ((±)-3b). Compound purchase, "analog by catalog", and independent synthesis of hits indicated the benzofuran-2-yl amide portion was required for in vitro efficacy against P. falciparum. Preparation of pure enantiomers demonstrated the pharmacological superiority of (R)-3b. Synthesis and evaluation of D- and F-ring substitution variants and benzofuran isosteres indicated a clear structure-activity relationship. Ultimately (R)-3b was tested in Plasmodium berghei-infected mice; unfavorable physicochemical properties may be responsible for the lack of oral efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanan Almolhim
- Department of Chemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, 1040 Drillfield Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Sha Ding
- Department of Chemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, 1040 Drillfield Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Joshua H Butler
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, 120 Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Emily K Bremers
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, 120 Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Grant J Butschek
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, 120 Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Carla Slebodnick
- Department of Chemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, 1040 Drillfield Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Emilio F Merino
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, 120 Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | | | - Maxim Totrov
- Molsoft LLC, 11999 Sorrento Valley Road, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Maria B Cassera
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, 120 Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Paul R Carlier
- Department of Chemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, 1040 Drillfield Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
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12
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Rei Yan SL, Wakasuqui F, Du X, Groves MR, Wrenger C. Lipoic Acid Metabolism as a Potential Chemotherapeutic Target Against Plasmodium falciparum and Staphylococcus aureus. Front Chem 2021; 9:742175. [PMID: 34805091 PMCID: PMC8600131 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.742175] [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: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipoic acid (LA) is an organic compound that plays a key role in cellular metabolism. It participates in a posttranslational modification (PTM) named lipoylation, an event that is highly conserved and that occurs in multimeric metabolic enzymes of very distinct microorganisms such as Plasmodium sp. and Staphylococcus aureus, including pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (KDH). In this mini review, we revisit the recent literature regarding LA metabolism in Plasmodium sp. and Staphylococcus aureus, by covering the lipoate ligase proteins in both microorganisms, the role of lipoate ligase proteins and insights for possible inhibitors of lipoate ligases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Liu Rei Yan
- Unit for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences-ICB, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Wakasuqui
- Unit for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences-ICB, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Xiaochen Du
- Structural Biology in Drug Design, Department of Drug Design, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Matthew R Groves
- Structural Biology in Drug Design, Department of Drug Design, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Carsten Wrenger
- Unit for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences-ICB, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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13
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Metabolomics profiling reveals new aspects of dolichol biosynthesis in Plasmodium falciparum. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13264. [PMID: 32764679 PMCID: PMC7414040 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70246-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The cis-polyisoprenoid lipids namely polyprenols, dolichols and their derivatives are linear polymers of several isoprene units. In eukaryotes, polyprenols and dolichols are synthesized as a mixture of four or more homologues of different length with one or two predominant species with sizes varying among organisms. Interestingly, co-occurrence of polyprenols and dolichols, i.e. detection of a dolichol along with significant levels of its precursor polyprenol, are unusual in eukaryotic cells. Our metabolomics studies revealed that cis-polyisoprenoids are more diverse in the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum than previously postulated as we uncovered active de novo biosynthesis and substantial levels of accumulation of polyprenols and dolichols of 15 to 19 isoprene units. A distinctive polyprenol and dolichol profile both within the intraerythrocytic asexual cycle and between asexual and gametocyte stages was observed suggesting that cis-polyisoprenoid biosynthesis changes throughout parasite’s development. Moreover, we confirmed the presence of an active cis-prenyltransferase (PfCPT) and that dolichol biosynthesis occurs via reduction of the polyprenol to dolichol by an active polyprenol reductase (PfPPRD) in the malaria parasite.
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14
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Kennedy K, Crisafulli EM, Ralph SA. Delayed Death by Plastid Inhibition in Apicomplexan Parasites. Trends Parasitol 2019; 35:747-759. [PMID: 31427248 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2019.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of a plastid in apicomplexan parasites was hoped to be a watershed moment in the treatment of parasitic diseases as it revealed drug targets that are implicitly divergent from host molecular processes. Indeed, this organelle, known as the apicoplast, has since been a productive therapeutic target for pharmaceutical interventions against infections by Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, Babesia, and Theileria. However, some inhibitors of the apicoplast are restricted in their treatment utility because of their slow-kill kinetics, and this characteristic is called the delayed death effect. Here we review the recent genetic and pharmacological experiments that interrogate the causes of delayed death and explore the foundation of this phenomenon in Plasmodium and Toxoplasma parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kit Kennedy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Emily M Crisafulli
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Stuart A Ralph
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
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15
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Targeting the apicoplast in malaria. Biochem Soc Trans 2019; 47:973-983. [PMID: 31383817 DOI: 10.1042/bst20170563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Malaria continues to be one of the leading causes of human mortality in the world, and the therapies available are insufficient for eradication. Severe malaria is caused by the apicomplexan parasite Plasmodium falciparum Apicomplexan parasites, including the Plasmodium spp., are descendants of photosynthetic algae, and therefore they possess an essential plastid organelle, named the apicoplast. Since humans and animals have no plastids, the apicoplast is an attractive target for drug development. Indeed, after its discovery, the apicoplast was found to host the target pathways of some known antimalarial drugs, which motivated efforts for further research into its biological functions and biogenesis. Initially, many apicoplast inhibitions were found to result in 'delayed death', whereby parasite killing is seen only at the end of one invasion-egress cycle. This slow action is not in line with the current standard for antimalarials, which seeded scepticism about the potential of compounds targeting apicoplast functions as good candidates for drug development. Intriguingly, recent evidence of apicoplast inhibitors causing rapid killing could put this organelle back in the spotlight. We provide an overview of drugs known to inhibit apicoplast pathways, alongside recent findings in apicoplast biology that may provide new avenues for drug development.
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16
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Vγ9Vδ2 T cells proliferate in response to phosphoantigens released from erythrocytes infected with asexual and gametocyte stage Plasmodium falciparum. Cell Immunol 2018; 334:11-19. [PMID: 30177348 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2018.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Vγ9Vδ2 T cells, the dominant γδ T cell subset in human peripheral blood, are stimulated by phosphoantigens, of which (E)-4-Hydroxy-3-methyl-but-2-enyl pyrophosphate, is produced in the apicoplast of malaria parasites. Cell-free media from synchronised Plasmodium falciparum asexual ring, trophozoite, and schizont stage-cultures of high purity as well as media from ruptured schizont cultures, all stimulated Vγ9Vδ2 T cell proliferation, as did media from pure gametocyte cultures, whereas media from uninfected erythrocytes cultures did not. The media from ruptured schizont cultures and all the asexual and gametocyte stage cultures contained only background iron levels, suggesting that all erythrocyte haemoglobin is consumed as the parasites develop and supporting that the phosphoantigens were released from intact parasitized erythrocytes. The Vγ9Vδ2 T cell-stimulating agent was not affected by freezing, thawing or heating but was sensitive to phosphatase treatment, confirming its phosphoantigen identity. In summary, phosphoantigens are released from parasitised erythrocytes at all developmental blood stages.
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17
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Gabriel HB, Azevedo MF, Kimura EA, Katzin AM. Plasmodium falciparum parasites overexpressing farnesyl diphosphate synthase/geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase are more resistant to risedronate. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2018; 113:e180174. [PMID: 30110072 PMCID: PMC6086031 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760180174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Farnesyl diphosphate synthase/geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (FPPS/GGPPS) is a key enzyme in the synthesis of isoprenic chains. Risedronate, a bisphosphonate containing nitrogen (N-BP), is a potent inhibitor of blood stage Plasmodium. Here, we show that P. falciparum parasites overexpressing FPPS/GGPPS are more resistant to risedronate, suggesting that this enzyme is an important target, and bisphosphonate analogues can be used as potential antimalarial drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heloisa B Gabriel
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Mauro F Azevedo
- Departamento de Biociências, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Emília A Kimura
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Alejandro M Katzin
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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18
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Deciphering the role of IspD (2‑C‑methyl‑D‑erythritol 4‑phosphate cytidyltransferase) enzyme as a potential therapeutic drug target against Plasmodium vivax. Gene 2018; 675:240-253. [PMID: 29958953 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.06.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2018] [Revised: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Biosynthesis of isoprenoids (MEP Pathway) in apicoplast has an important role during the erythrocytic stages of Plasmodium, as it is the sole pathway to provide the major isoprene units required as metabolic precursor for various housekeeping activities. With the intensifying need to identify a novel therapeutic drug target against Plasmodium, the MEP pathway and its components are considered as potential therapeutic targets, due to the difference in the isoprenoid synthesis route (MVA) functional in the host cells. While few major components have already been studied from this pathway for their potential as a drug target, IspD (2-C-methyl-D-erythritol-4-phosphate cytidyltransferase) enzyme, the enzyme catalyzing the third step of the pathway has only been tested against a synthetic compound from Malaria box called MMV008138, which also has not shown adequate inhibitory activity against P. vivax IspD. In the present study, to validate the potential of PvIspD as a drug target, various antimicrobial agents were screened for their inhibition possibilities, using in-vitro High Throughput Screening (HTS) technique. Shortlisted antimicrobial drug molecules like Cefepime, Tunicamycin and Rifampicin were further validated by in-vitro biochemical enzyme inhibition assays where they showed activity at nanomolar concentrations suggesting them or their derivatives as prospective future antimalarials. This study also confirmed the in-vivo expression of PvIspD protein during asexual stages by sub-cellular localization in apicoplast and explores the importance of the IspD enzyme in the development of new therapeutics.
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19
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Ghavami M, Merino EF, Yao ZK, Elahi R, Simpson ME, Fernández-Murga ML, Butler JH, Casasanta MA, Krai PM, Totrov MM, Slade DJ, Carlier PR, Cassera MB. Biological Studies and Target Engagement of the 2- C-Methyl-d-Erythritol 4-Phosphate Cytidylyltransferase (IspD)-Targeting Antimalarial Agent (1 R,3 S)-MMV008138 and Analogs. ACS Infect Dis 2018; 4:549-559. [PMID: 29072835 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.7b00159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Malaria continues to be one of the deadliest diseases worldwide, and the emergence of drug resistance parasites is a constant threat. Plasmodium parasites utilize the methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway to synthesize isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) and dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP), which are essential for parasite growth. Previously, we and others identified that the Malaria Box compound MMV008138 targets the apicoplast and that parasite growth inhibition by this compound can be reversed by supplementation of IPP. Further work has revealed that MMV008138 targets the enzyme 2- C-methyl-d-erythritol 4-phosphate cytidylyltransferase (IspD) in the MEP pathway, which converts MEP and cytidine triphosphate (CTP) to cytidinediphosphate methylerythritol (CDP-ME) and pyrophosphate. In this work, we sought to gain insight into the structure-activity relationships by probing the ability of MMV008138 analogs to inhibit PfIspD recombinant enzyme. Here, we report PfIspD inhibition data for fosmidomycin (FOS) and 19 previously disclosed analogs and report parasite growth and PfIspD inhibition data for 27 new analogs of MMV008138. In addition, we show that MMV008138 does not target the recently characterized human IspD, reinforcing MMV008138 as a prototype of a new class of species-selective IspD-targeting antimalarial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ghavami
- Department of Chemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Hahn Hall South, 800 West Campus Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Emilio F. Merino
- Department of Biochemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Engel Hall, 340 West Campus Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases (CTEGD), University of Georgia, 120 Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Zhong-Ke Yao
- Department of Chemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Hahn Hall South, 800 West Campus Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Rubayet Elahi
- Department of Biochemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Engel Hall, 340 West Campus Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Morgan E. Simpson
- Department of Biochemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Engel Hall, 340 West Campus Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Maria L. Fernández-Murga
- Department of Biochemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Engel Hall, 340 West Campus Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Joshua H. Butler
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases (CTEGD), University of Georgia, 120 Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
| | - Michael A. Casasanta
- Department of Biochemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Engel Hall, 340 West Campus Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Priscilla M. Krai
- Department of Biochemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Engel Hall, 340 West Campus Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Maxim M. Totrov
- Molsoft LLC, 11199 Sorrento Valley Road, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Daniel J. Slade
- Department of Biochemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Engel Hall, 340 West Campus Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Paul R. Carlier
- Department of Chemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Hahn Hall South, 800 West Campus Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Maria Belen Cassera
- Department of Biochemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Engel Hall, 340 West Campus Drive, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases (CTEGD), University of Georgia, 120 Green Street, Athens, Georgia 30602, United States
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20
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Kadian K, Vijay S, Gupta Y, Rawal R, Singh J, Anvikar A, Pande V, Sharma A. Structural modeling identifies Plasmodium vivax 4-diphosphocytidyl-2C-methyl-d-erythritol kinase (IspE) as a plausible new antimalarial drug target. Parasitol Int 2018; 67:375-385. [PMID: 29550587 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2018.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Malaria parasites utilize Methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway for synthesis of isoprenoid precursors which are essential for maturation and survival of parasites during erythrocytic and gametocytic stages. The absence of MEP pathway in the human host establishes MEP pathway enzymes as a repertoire of essential drug targets. The fourth enzyme, 4-diphosphocytidyl-2C-methyl-d-erythritol kinase (IspE) has been proved essential in pathogenic bacteria, however; it has not yet been studied in any Plasmodium species. This study was undertaken to investigate genetic polymorphism and concomitant structural implications of the Plasmodium vivax IspE (PvIspE) by employing sequencing, modeling and bioinformatics approach. We report that PvIspE gene displayed six non-synonymous mutations which were restricted to non-conserved regions within the gene from seven topographically distinct malaria-endemic regions of India. Phylogenetic studies reflected that PvIspE occupies unique status within Plasmodia genus and reflects that Plasmodium vivax IspE gene has a distant and non-conserved relation with human ortholog Mevalonate Kinase (MAVK). Structural modeling analysis revealed that all PvIspE Indian isolates have critically conserved canonical galacto-homoserine-mevalonate-phosphomevalonate kinase (GHMP) domain within the active site lying in a deep cleft sandwiched between ATP and CDPME-binding domains. The active core region was highly conserved among all clinical isolates, may be due to >60% β-pleated rigid architecture. The mapped structural analysis revealed the critically conserved active site of PvIspE, both sequence, and spacially among all Indian isolates; showing no significant changes in the active site. Our study strengthens the candidature of Plasmodium vivax IspE enzyme as a future target for novel antimalarials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavita Kadian
- Protein Biochemistry and Structural Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Malaria Research (ICMR), Sector-8, Dwarka, New Delhi, India
| | - Sonam Vijay
- Protein Biochemistry and Structural Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Malaria Research (ICMR), Sector-8, Dwarka, New Delhi, India
| | - Yash Gupta
- Protein Biochemistry and Structural Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Malaria Research (ICMR), Sector-8, Dwarka, New Delhi, India
| | - Ritu Rawal
- Protein Biochemistry and Structural Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Malaria Research (ICMR), Sector-8, Dwarka, New Delhi, India
| | - Jagbir Singh
- Protein Biochemistry and Structural Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Malaria Research (ICMR), Sector-8, Dwarka, New Delhi, India
| | - Anup Anvikar
- Epidemiology and Clinical Research, National Institute of Malaria Research (ICMR), Sector-8, Dwarka, New Delhi, India
| | - Veena Pande
- Department of Biotechnology, Kumaun University, Nainital, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Arun Sharma
- Protein Biochemistry and Structural Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Malaria Research (ICMR), Sector-8, Dwarka, New Delhi, India.
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21
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Exploiting the apicoplast: apicoplast-targeting drugs and malaria vaccine development. Microbes Infect 2017; 20:477-483. [PMID: 29287981 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2017.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The apicoplast, a relic plastid found in most Apicomplexan parasites, is a notable drug target. Certain antibiotics elicit a delayed death phenotype by targeting this organelle. Here, we review apicoplast-targeting drugs and their targets, particularly those that cause delayed death, and highlight its potential uses in malaria vaccine development.
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22
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Validation of Putative Apicoplast-Targeting Drugs Using a Chemical Supplementation Assay in Cultured Human Malaria Parasites. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2017; 62:AAC.01161-17. [PMID: 29109165 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01161-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria parasites contain a relict plastid, the apicoplast, which is considered an excellent drug target due to its bacterial-like ancestry. Numerous parasiticidals have been proposed to target the apicoplast, but few have had their actual targets substantiated. Isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) production is the sole required function of the apicoplast in the blood stage of the parasite life cycle, and IPP supplementation rescues parasites from apicoplast-perturbing drugs. Hence, any drug that kills parasites when IPP is supplied in culture must have a nonapicoplast target. Here, we use IPP supplementation to discriminate whether 23 purported apicoplast-targeting drugs are on- or off-target. We demonstrate that a prokaryotic DNA replication inhibitor (ciprofloxacin), several prokaryotic translation inhibitors (chloramphenicol, doxycycline, tetracycline, clindamycin, azithromycin, erythromycin, and clarithromycin), a tRNA synthase inhibitor (mupirocin), and two IPP synthesis pathway inhibitors (fosmidomycin and FR900098) have apicoplast targets. Intriguingly, fosmidomycin and FR900098 leave the apicoplast intact, whereas the others eventually result in apicoplast loss. Actinonin, an inhibitor of bacterial posttranslational modification, does not produce a typical delayed-death response but is rescued with IPP, thereby confirming its apicoplast target. Parasites treated with putative apicoplast fatty acid pathway inhibitors could not be rescued, demonstrating that these drugs have their primary targets outside the apicoplast, which agrees with the dispensability of the apicoplast fatty acid synthesis pathways in the blood stage of malaria parasites. IPP supplementation provides a simple test of whether a compound has a target in the apicoplast and can be used to screen novel compounds for mode of action.
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23
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Rono MK, Nyonda MA, Simam JJ, Ngoi JM, Mok S, Kortok MM, Abdullah AS, Elfaki MM, Waitumbi JN, El-Hassan IM, Marsh K, Bozdech Z, Mackinnon MJ. Adaptation of Plasmodium falciparum to its transmission environment. Nat Ecol Evol 2017; 2:377-387. [PMID: 29255304 DOI: 10.1038/s41559-017-0419-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Success in eliminating malaria will depend on whether parasite evolution outpaces control efforts. Here, we show that Plasmodium falciparum parasites (the deadliest of the species causing human malaria) found in low-transmission-intensity areas have evolved to invest more in transmission to new hosts (reproduction) and less in within-host replication (growth) than parasites found in high-transmission areas. At the cellular level, this adaptation manifests as increased production of reproductive forms (gametocytes) early in the infection at the expense of processes associated with multiplication inside red blood cells, especially membrane transport and protein trafficking. At the molecular level, this manifests as changes in the expression levels of genes encoding epigenetic and translational machinery. Specifically, expression levels of the gene encoding AP2-G-the transcription factor that initiates reproduction-increase as transmission intensity decreases. This is accompanied by downregulation and upregulation of genes encoding HDAC1 and HDA1-two histone deacetylases that epigenetically regulate the parasite's replicative and reproductive life-stage programmes, respectively. Parasites in reproductive mode show increased reliance on the prokaryotic translation machinery found inside the plastid-derived organelles. Thus, our dissection of the parasite's adaptive regulatory architecture has identified new potential molecular targets for malaria control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin K Rono
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya.,Pwani University Bioscience Research Centre, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mary A Nyonda
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Medical Faculty, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Joyce M Ngoi
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Sachel Mok
- Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Moses M Kortok
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | - Mohammed M Elfaki
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Gizan, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - John N Waitumbi
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research/Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Ibrahim M El-Hassan
- Faculty of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Jazan University, Gizan, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kevin Marsh
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Zbynek Bozdech
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
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24
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Ganley JG, Toro-Moreno M, Derbyshire ER. Exploring the Untapped Biosynthetic Potential of Apicomplexan Parasites. Biochemistry 2017; 57:365-375. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.7b00877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jack G. Ganley
- Department
of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Maria Toro-Moreno
- Department
of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Emily R. Derbyshire
- Department
of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Department
of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, 213 Research Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
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25
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Sharma D, Soni R, Rai P, Sharma B, Bhatt TK. Relict plastidic metabolic process as a potential therapeutic target. Drug Discov Today 2017; 23:134-140. [PMID: 28987288 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2017.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Revised: 09/03/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The alignment of the evolutionary history of parasites with that of plants provides a different panorama in the drug development process. The housing of different metabolic processes, essential for parasite survival, adds to the indispensability of the apicoplast. The different pathways responsible for fueling the apicoplast and parasite offer a myriad of proteins responsible for the apicoplast function. The studies emphasizing the target-based approaches might help in the discovery of antimalarials. The different putative drug targets and their roles are highlighted. In addition, the origin of the apicoplast and metabolic processes are reviewed and the different drugs acting upon the enzymes of the apicoplast are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drista Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8, Bandarsindri, Rajasthan 305801, India
| | - Rani Soni
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8, Bandarsindri, Rajasthan 305801, India
| | - Praveen Rai
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8, Bandarsindri, Rajasthan 305801, India
| | - Bhaskar Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8, Bandarsindri, Rajasthan 305801, India
| | - Tarun Kumar Bhatt
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8, Bandarsindri, Rajasthan 305801, India.
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26
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Edwards RL, Brothers RC, Wang X, Maron MI, Ziniel PD, Tsang PS, Kraft TE, Hruz PW, Williamson KC, Dowd CS, John ARO. MEPicides: potent antimalarial prodrugs targeting isoprenoid biosynthesis. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8400. [PMID: 28827774 PMCID: PMC5567135 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07159-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of Plasmodium falciparum resistant to frontline therapeutics has prompted efforts to identify and validate agents with novel mechanisms of action. MEPicides represent a new class of antimalarials that inhibit enzymes of the methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway of isoprenoid biosynthesis, including the clinically validated target, deoxyxylulose phosphate reductoisomerase (Dxr). Here we describe RCB-185, a lipophilic prodrug with nanomolar activity against asexual parasites. Growth of P. falciparum treated with RCB-185 was rescued by isoprenoid precursor supplementation, and treatment substantially reduced metabolite levels downstream of the Dxr enzyme. In addition, parasites that produced higher levels of the Dxr substrate were resistant to RCB-185. Notably, environmental isolates resistant to current therapies remained sensitive to RCB-185, the compound effectively treated sexually-committed parasites, and was both safe and efficacious in malaria-infected mice. Collectively, our data demonstrate that RCB-185 potently and selectively inhibits Dxr in P. falciparum, and represents a promising lead compound for further drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Edwards
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Robert C Brothers
- Department of Chemistry, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Chemistry, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Maxim I Maron
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Peter D Ziniel
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Patricia S Tsang
- Tuberculosis Research Section, Laboratory of Clinical Infectious Diseases, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Thomas E Kraft
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, Munich, Nonnenwald, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Paul W Hruz
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kim C Williamson
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Cynthia S Dowd
- Department of Chemistry, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Audrey R Odom John
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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27
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Abstract
The increasing prevalence of infections involving intracellular apicomplexan parasites such as Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, and Cryptosporidium (the causative agents of malaria, toxoplasmosis, and cryptosporidiosis, respectively) represent a significant global healthcare burden. Despite their significance, few treatments are available; a situation that is likely to deteriorate with the emergence of new resistant strains of parasites. To lay the foundation for programs of drug discovery and vaccine development, genome sequences for many of these organisms have been generated, together with large-scale expression and proteomic datasets. Comparative analyses of these datasets are beginning to identify the molecular innovations supporting both conserved processes mediating fundamental roles in parasite survival and persistence, as well as lineage-specific adaptations associated with divergent life-cycle strategies. The challenge is how best to exploit these data to derive insights into parasite virulence and identify those genes representing the most amenable targets. In this review, we outline genomic datasets currently available for apicomplexans and discuss biological insights that have emerged as a consequence of their analysis. Of particular interest are systems-based resources, focusing on areas of metabolism and host invasion that are opening up opportunities for discovering new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John Parkinson
- a Program in Molecular Structure and Function , Hospital for Sick Children , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
- b Departments of Biochemistry, Molecular Genetics and Computer Science , University of Toronto , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
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28
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Corral MG, Leroux J, Stubbs KA, Mylne JS. Herbicidal properties of antimalarial drugs. Sci Rep 2017; 7:45871. [PMID: 28361906 PMCID: PMC5374466 DOI: 10.1038/srep45871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolutionary relationship between plants and the malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum is well established and underscored by the P. falciparum apicoplast, an essential chloroplast-like organelle. As a result of this relationship, studies have demonstrated that herbicides active against plants are also active against P. falciparum and thus could act as antimalarial drug leads. Here we show the converse is also true; many antimalarial compounds developed for human use are highly herbicidal. We found that human antimalarial drugs (e.g. sulfadiazine, sulfadoxine, pyrimethamine, cycloguanil) were lethal to the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana at similar concentrations to market herbicides glufosinate and glyphosate. Furthermore, the physicochemical properties of these herbicidal antimalarial compounds were similar to commercially used herbicides. The implications of this finding that many antimalarial compounds are herbicidal proffers two novel applications: (i) using the genetically tractable A. thaliana to reveal mode-of-action for understudied antimalarial drugs, and (ii) co-opting antimalarial compounds as a new source for much needed herbicide lead molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime G Corral
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth 6009, Australia.,The ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Energy Biology, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Julie Leroux
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth 6009, Australia.,The ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Energy Biology, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Keith A Stubbs
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Joshua S Mylne
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth 6009, Australia.,The ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Energy Biology, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth 6009, Australia
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29
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McFadden GI, Yeh E. The apicoplast: now you see it, now you don't. Int J Parasitol 2016; 47:137-144. [PMID: 27773518 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2016.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Revised: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Parasites such as Plasmodium and Toxoplasma possess a vestigial plastid homologous to the chloroplasts of algae and plants. The plastid (known as the apicoplast; for apicomplexan plastid) is non-photosynthetic and very much reduced, but has clear endosymbiotic ancestry including a circular genome that encodes RNAs and proteins and a suite of bacterial biosynthetic pathways. Here we review the initial discovery of the apicoplast, and recount the major new insights into apicoplast origin, biogenesis and function. We conclude by examining how the apicoplast can be removed from malaria parasites in vitro, ultimately completing its reduction by chemical supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ellen Yeh
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford Medical School, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Pathology, Stanford Medical School, Stanford, CA, USA
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30
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Smith RC, Barillas-Mury C. Plasmodium Oocysts: Overlooked Targets of Mosquito Immunity. Trends Parasitol 2016; 32:979-990. [PMID: 27639778 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2016.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Revised: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Although the ability of mosquitoes to limit Plasmodium infection is well documented, many questions remain as to how malaria parasites are recognized and killed by the mosquito host. Recent evidence suggests that anti-Plasmodium immunity is multimodal, with different immune mechanisms regulating ookinete and oocyst survival. However, most experiments determine the number of mature oocysts, without considering that different immune mechanisms may target different developmental stages of the parasite. Complement-like proteins have emerged as important determinants of early immunity targeting the ookinete stage, yet the mechanisms by which the mosquito late-phase immune response limits oocyst survival are less understood. Here, we describe the known components of the mosquito immune system that limit oocyst development, and provide insight into their possible mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C Smith
- Department of Entomology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.
| | - Carolina Barillas-Mury
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
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31
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Saggu GS, Pala ZR, Garg S, Saxena V. New Insight into Isoprenoids Biosynthesis Process and Future Prospects for Drug Designing in Plasmodium. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:1421. [PMID: 27679614 PMCID: PMC5020098 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.01421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The MEP (Methyl Erythritol Phosphate) isoprenoids biosynthesis pathway is an attractive drug target to combat malaria, due to its uniqueness and indispensability for the parasite. It is functional in the apicoplast of Plasmodium and its products get transported to the cytoplasm, where they participate in glycoprotein synthesis, electron transport chain, tRNA modification and several other biological processes. Several compounds have been tested against the enzymes involved in this pathway and amongst them Fosmidomycin, targeted against IspC (DXP reductoisomerase) enzyme and MMV008138 targeted against IspD enzyme have shown good anti-malarial activity in parasite cultures. Fosmidomycin is now-a-days prescribed clinically, however, less absorption, shorter half-life, and toxicity at higher doses, limits its use as an anti-malarial. The potential of other enzymes of the pathway as candidate drug targets has also been determined. This review details the various drug molecules tested against these targets with special emphasis to Plasmodium. We corroborate that MEP pathway functional within the apicoplast of Plasmodium is a major drug target, especially during erythrocytic stages. However, the major bottlenecks, bioavailability and toxicity of the new molecules needs to be addressed, before considering any new molecule as a potent antimalarial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gagandeep S Saggu
- Molecular Parasitology and Systems Biology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, India
| | - Zarna R Pala
- Molecular Parasitology and Systems Biology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, India
| | - Shilpi Garg
- Molecular Parasitology and Systems Biology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, India
| | - Vishal Saxena
- Molecular Parasitology and Systems Biology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, India
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Imlay LS, Armstrong CM, Masters MC, Li T, Price KE, Edwards RL, Mann KM, Li LX, Stallings CL, Berry NG, O’Neill PM, Odom AR. Plasmodium IspD (2-C-Methyl-D-erythritol 4-Phosphate Cytidyltransferase), an Essential and Druggable Antimalarial Target. ACS Infect Dis 2015; 1:157-167. [PMID: 26783558 DOI: 10.1021/id500047s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
As resistance to current therapies spreads, novel antimalarials are urgently needed. In this work, we examine the potential for therapeutic intervention via the targeting of Plasmodium IspD (2-C-methyl-D-erythritol 4-phosphate cytidyltransferase), the second dedicated enzyme of the essential methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway for isoprenoid biosynthesis. Enzymes of this pathway represent promising therapeutic targets because the pathway is not present in humans. The Malaria Box compound, MMV008138, inhibits Plasmodium falciparum growth, and PfIspD has been proposed as a candidate intracellular target. We find that PfIspD is the sole intracellular target of MMV008138 and characterize the mode of inhibition and target-based resistance, providing chemical validation of this target. Additionally, we find that the Pf ISPD genetic locus is refractory to disruption in malaria parasites, providing independent genetic validation for efforts targeting this enzyme. This work provides compelling support for IspD as a druggable target for the development of additional, much-needed antimalarial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ting Li
- College of Medicine, University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio 43614, United States
| | - Kathryn E. Price
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZD, U.K
| | | | | | | | | | - Neil G. Berry
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZD, U.K
| | - Paul M. O’Neill
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZD, U.K
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Yao ZK, Krai PM, Merino EF, Simpson ME, Slebodnick C, Cassera MB, Carlier PR. Determination of the active stereoisomer of the MEP pathway-targeting antimalarial agent MMV008138, and initial structure-activity studies. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2015; 25:1515-9. [PMID: 25754494 PMCID: PMC4374032 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2015.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Revised: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Compounds that target isoprenoid biosynthesis in Plasmodium falciparum could be a welcome addition to malaria chemotherapy, since the methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway used by the parasite is not present in humans. We previously reported that MMV008138 targets the apicoplast of P. falciparum and that its target in the MEP pathway differs from that of Fosmidomycin. In this Letter, we determine that the active stereoisomer of MMV008138 is 4a, which is (1R,3S)-configured. 2',4'-Disubstitution of the D ring was also found to be crucial for inhibition of the parasite growth. Limited variation of the C3-carboxylic acid substituent was carried out, and methylamide derivative 8a was found to be more potent than 4a; other amides, acylhydrazines, and esters were less potent. Finally, lead compounds 4a, 4e, 4f, 4h, 8a, and 8e did not inhibit growth of Escherichia coli, suggesting that protozoan-selective inhibition of the MEP pathway of P. falciparum can be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Ke Yao
- Department of Chemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Priscilla M Krai
- Department of Biochemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Emilio F Merino
- Department of Biochemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Morgan E Simpson
- Department of Biochemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Carla Slebodnick
- Department of Chemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Maria Belen Cassera
- Department of Biochemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Paul R Carlier
- Department of Chemistry and Virginia Tech Center for Drug Discovery, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States.
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Sinden RE. The cell biology of malaria infection of mosquito: advances and opportunities. Cell Microbiol 2015; 17:451-66. [PMID: 25557077 PMCID: PMC4409862 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.12413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2014] [Revised: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 12/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Recent reviews (Feachem et al.; Alonso et al.) have concluded that in order to have a sustainable impact on the global burden of malaria, it is essential that we knowingly reduce the global incidence of infected persons. To achieve this we must reduce the basic reproductive rate of the parasites to < 1 in diverse epidemiological settings. This can be achieved by impacting combinations of the following parameters: the number of mosquitoes relative to the number of persons, the mosquito/human biting rate, the proportion of mosquitoes carrying infectious sporozoites, the daily survival rate of the infectious mosquito and the ability of malaria-infected persons to infect mosquito vectors. This paper focuses on our understanding of parasite biology underpinning the last of these terms: infection of the mosquito. The article attempts to highlight central issues that require further study to assist in the discovery of useful transmission-blocking measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- R E Sinden
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London and the Jenner Institute, The University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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